bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dental Students' Perspectives and Learning Experiences during the Covid-19 Outbreak: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Tan Wen Wu , Lin Galvin Sim Siang
Published: November 2023

Objective: The present study aimed to explore the perspectives and learning experiences of undergraduate dental students during the Covid-19 pandemic using a qualitative approach.
Materials and Methods: The current study used a qualitative focus group approach based on the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist. Three focus groups were carried out using a piloted interview topic guide. A convenient sampling was adopted to include undergraduate year 3 to year 5 dental students who had attended regular face-to-face session before the pandemic. Each session consisted of 6 to 8 participants who were randomly assigned, and the sessions lasted for about 30 to 45 minutes. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Content analysis using a deductive approach was employed to the focus group data. All the final codes were refined and agreed by all members of the research team.
Results: Four main themes with their respective subthemes were identified through the coding process, namely change in study life balance, online learning, interpersonal relationship, and concern for future.
Conclusion: Dental students faced numerous challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic, both mentally and academically. Academicians must reconsider and re-evaluate the curriculum, including the mode of delivery, as total eradication of the virus is not likely to be possible in the foreseeable future.
Vaccination Coverage in Patients with Idiopathic Inflammatory Central Nervous System Demyelinating Diseases at Siriraj Hospital, A Single-center Experience
Authors: Sangsai Onpawee , Aueaphatthanawong Kamonchanok
Published: November 2023

Objective: Individuals with Idiopathic Inflammatory Central Nervous System Demyelinating Diseases (CNS-IIDDs) have an elevated risk for infection. Vaccination is key to reducing infection. This study aimed to determine vaccination coverage, the adverse effects of vaccination, and general vaccination knowledge in the patients.
Methods and Methods: A single-center cross-sectional study in the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at Siriraj Hospital, Thailand, was performed using the designed questionnaires.
Results: Of 100 participants, 90% were female, with a mean (SD) age of 46.2 (12.9). Overall, all received compulsory vaccine coverage. For optional vaccines, the coverage was lower-than-expected, with rates of 3%, 4%, and 3% for human papilloma virus, pneumococcal, and zoster vaccines, respectively. Only 28% of participants received the 2021/2022 seasonal influenza vaccine. The only factor associated with the uptake of the influenza vaccination was the participants’ health coverage. By asking questions to evaluate general vaccination knowledge, two questions related to vaccination and immuno-suppressive agents received the highest percentage of ‘not sure’ responses.
Conclusion: Vaccination coverage was lower than expected among Thai CNS-IIDDs patients, both for optional and seasonal influenza vaccines. Vaccination in these groups of patients should be encouraged to prevent potential infections.
Characteristics, Outcomes and Bed Utilization of 15-to-18-Year-Old Adolescents in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in Thailand
Authors: Law Suvikrom , Butpech Thakoon , Phumeetham Suwannee , Preeprem Nutnicha , Limprayoon Kawewan
Published: November 2023

Objective: There is a trend toward expanding pediatric age range. At the borderline age of 15-18 years, the characteristics of patients requiring intensive care admission in low- and middle-income countries are unknown. Our institution recently changed the cut-off age for pediatric care from 15 to 18 years. The objective of this study was to determine the characteristics, outcomes and bed utilization of patients aged 15-18 years admitted to pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) after this change.
Materials and Methods: This is an observational study at a tertiary medical PICU. Patients aged 15-18 years admitted to PICU in 2019-2020 were eligible. Medical records were reviewed.
Results: There were 1030 PICU admissions from all age groups. Fifty-two patients aged 15-18 years were admitted, with a total of 68 admissions. Eighty-seven percent had chronic conditions. The most common acute conditions were septic shock and infection, the most common chronic conditions were systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and hematologic malignancies. Forty-seven percent required mechanical ventilation, 36% required vasoactive medications and 27% required continuous renal replacement therapy. PICU mortality rate in patients aged 15-18 years old was significantly higher than that in the younger age group (13.24% vs 3.64%, p = 0.002). Hospital mortality rate was 22%.
Conclusion: Patients aged 15-18 years requiring PICU admission had high prevalence of chronic conditions and high mortality risk. Special attention should be given to the care of this group. The most common acute conditions were septic shock and infection. The most common chronic conditions were SLE and hematologic malignancies.
Predicting Progression to Hypervascular HCC in Hypovascular Hypointense Nodules in Gadoxetic Acid-enhanced MR Images in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Teerasamit Wanwarang , Hongpinyo Suchanya , Tongdee Ranista , Suvannarerg Voraparee
Published: November 2023

Objective: To identify patient characteristics and MR imaging features of hypovascular hypointense nodules in the hepatobiliary phase (HBP) of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging in patients with chronic liver disease associated with progression to hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Materials and Methods: The institutional review board approved this retrospective review of 40 patients with 60 hypovascular hypointense nodules in the HBP of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses for hypervascular HCC development were used to define variables, including initial nodule size, cause of cirrhosis, history of locoregional therapy of HCC, fat-containing, signal intensity on T1W, T2W, portal and equilibrium phases of dynamic phase, and DW images. The cumulative percentage incidence of hypervascularity and growth rate were calculated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.
Results: The prevalence of progression to hypervascular HCC was 45% (27 out of 60). The Multivariable Cox analysis of developing hypervascularization was an initial nodule diameter more than 1 cm. (P=0.027; HR 2.52; 95% CI: 1.11,5.74) The mean growth rate was significantly higher in subsequent hypervascular nodules than in those without hypervascularization (P < 0.001). The cumulative risk incidence of hypervascularization at 3, 6, 12, 24 months was 5%, 20%, 35%, 44 %, respectively.
Conclusion: An initial nodule diameter of more than 1 cm and nodules with higher growth rates are significant predictive factors for hypervascular transformation of hypovascular hypointense nodules in the  HBP of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging.
Amyloid PET Radiopharmaceuticals and Imaging for Clinical and Research Applications in Thailand
Authors: Siriprapa Tossaporn , Thientunyakit Tanyaluck , Gelovani Juri
Published: November 2023

In the past two decades, the research community has focused on defining reliable molecular biomarkers for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Several PET radiopharmaceuticals have been developed and gained regulatory approval for the non-invasive detection of Aβ amyloid deposits in the brain. Nowadays, there are several PET imaging tracers available in Thailand for amyloid imaging including [11C]PiB, [18F]Florbetapir, and [18F]Florbetaben. This review provides a summary of commonly used amyloid PET radiopharmaceuticals, focusing on the available radiopharmaceuticals in Thailand and the experiences of using amyloid PET radiopharmaceuticals and imaging for clinical and research applications at Siriraj Hospital.
Outcomes of Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy in the Treatment of Esophageal Achalasia: Over One Hundred Cases in a Single Tertiary Center
Authors: Laohavichitra Kannikar , Wannaprasert Jerasak , Raranachu-ek Thawee
Published: November 2023

Objective: To study the outcomes and complications of per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in patients with esophageal achalasia.
Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study reviewed the medical records of  esophageal achalasia patients who underwent POEM between March 2013 and September 2022. One hundred and eight cases were included.
Results: A total of 108 consecutive patients were included in this study and classified into 4 groups: 30 (27.8%) as type I; 53 (49.1%) as type II; 5 (4.6%) as type III; and 20 (18.5%) as unspecified due to unsuccessful catheter placement across the esophagogastric junction. The mean patient age was 46.10+16.59, 77 (71.3%) patients were female. Ten (9.3%) of the patients had undergone prior treatment, including balloon dilation, POEM, Heller myotomy, and nitroglycerine. Technical success was achieved in 106 (98.1%) cases, clinical success was evaluated only in 88 patients who follow up more than 6 month and the median follow-up time was 20.50 months (range 6-110 months). The clinical success was accomplished in 82 (93.2%), and 26 (24.1%) patients experienced perioperative complications which were significantly associated with anterior myotomy and probably operator learning curve. One patient (1.1%) had recurrent symptoms at 24-month follow up. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was found in 19 (21.6%) patients, all of whom responded well to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Conclusion: POEM is effective and safe in long-term treatment of achalasia. Although the incidence of symptomatic GERD was slightly high, the cases were not severe and were well controlled with medication.
Bedaquiline Effect Towards QT Interval in Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (DR-TB): A Systematic Review
Authors: Simanjuntak Arya Marganda , Aulia Rahmadini , Banjarnahor Dhewa Triguna , Harianja Riski Dimas , Yovi Indra
Published: November 2023

Objective: Bedaquiline is recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) to treat Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (DR-TB). Bedaquiline is chosen due to its efficacy and safety in numerous studies. One adverse event that could happen is QT interval prolongation, which increases the risk of Torsade de Pointes (TdP) and leads to death. This study aimed to discuss the knowledge on the effect of bedaquiline on before-after and changes of QT interval.
Materials and Methods: This systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines through PubMed, Cochrane, Science Direct, ProQuest, Google Scholar, and Epistemonikos until April 10, 2023. The keywords used was (“Bedaquiline” AND “QT Interval”).  We implemented inclusion and exclusion criteria by PICOS framework then assessed the studies by Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist tools.
Results: From 1.170 articles, eleven articles met the criteria. In total 2449 patients assessed in this study. Most of the studies carried out treatment duration of 6 months. There was a change in the mean QT interval between 11ms to 52.5ms in patients using bedaquiline from the beginning to the end of treatment. The mean QT interval after treatment ranges from 409.7ms – 464.5ms.
Conclusion: The use of bedaquiline requires attention to the ECG before and during therapy. Regular monitoring is necessary to prevent QT prolongation.
Patterns of alopecia among patients attended in dermatology clinic of Dhaka city: role of socio-demographic and clinical profiles on treatment process
Authors: Rahaman Md Mahabubur , Asma Anzirun Nahar , Siddiqua Ayesha , Siddique Rahmat Ullah , Akter Sabrina , Alam Morshad
Published: November 2023

The treatment of alopecia is widely available, and numerous studies have been conducted for its improvement. However, research focusing on the Bangladeshi population is extremely rare. A number of dermatology clinics in Bangladesh are providing advanced treatment; therefore, the efficacy of those treatments needs to be assessed. The aim of this study was to determine the pattern of alopecia in Bangladesh and identify the factors that are associated with poor treatment responses to administered therapies. We conducted a cross-sectional study among alopecia patients who were getting treatment at Aurora Skin and Aesthetics and completed at least six sessions under an experienced physician. Interviews run by experienced physicians collected demographic, clinical, treatment, and comorbidity-related information from patients aged between 18 and 65 years. The collected data were analyzed using STATA (version 16.0). Among our participants, male pattern baldness (stage-2) was most common (43.6%), followed by male pattern baldness (stage-3) (18.8%) and female pattern hair loss (FPHL), stage-2 (13.9%). The treatment efficacy was good for 46.5% of patients, medium for another 42.56%, and only 10.9% showed poor efficacy. The oily hair of participants showed a statistically significant negative association with treatment efficacy (P=0.018). The presence of chronic disease and stress among alopecia patients also negatively impacts the treatment process (P<0.05). Smoking among alopecia patients also hampers the treatment process and is significantly associated with poor treatment efficacy. From this study, it is clear that the ongoing treatment has overall excellent efficacy; however, attention should be given to the comorbidities and habits of patients to improve the treatment outcome. The findings of this study would help skin specialists make decisions during alopecia treatment.
Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. 2023, 9 (4), 106-113
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis in Very Early Age: Two Case Reports
Authors: Nahid Khan Lamia , Begum Fahmida , Alam Rubaiyat , Islam Mohammed Shahidul , Rukunuzzaman Md
Published: November 2023

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) is a rare, chronic, progressive cholestatic liver disease which affects intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts. That eventually progresses to end stage liver disease that requires liver transplantation. It mostly occurs in adolescent males and boys. Pediatric disease appears milder in contrast to adult-onset PSC. The diagnosis is made by Magnatic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). Though there is no practical guideline available in pediatric patients for treating PSC UDCA is prescribed chronically in over 80% of patients. There is close association of PSC with inflammatory bowel disease and autoimmune hepatitis in children. So the treatment is complex in case of children. We reported here two cases of PSC, because of rarity of this disease in such a young age.

BANGLADESH J CHILD HEALTH 2022; VOL 46 (1) : 30-34
Dyskeratosis Congenita: A Case Report
Authors: Sumi Shahnaz Pervin , Mamun Mohammad Abdullah Al , Islam Mirza Md Ziaul , Alam Md Jahangir
Published: November 2023

Dyskeratosis Congenita (DC) is a rare inherited bone marrow failure disorder characterized by lacy reticulated skin pigmentation, nail dystrophy and mucosal leukoplakia. In DC bone marrow failure is the main cause of premature death with an additional predisposition to malignancy. DC results from progressive shortening of telomeres resulting in DNA replication. X-linked recessive is the main mode of inheritance. Most of the patients respond to Androgen therapy. This is a case report of a 5-year-old boy presented with features of bone marrow failure and had abnormality of skin, oral mucosa and nail. His complete blood count with peripheral blood film showed pancytopenia and no blast cell. Hypocellular marrow was present in his Bone marrow examination. Chromosomal analysis- fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) revealed very short telomere of chromosome. Microarray genotyping showed DKC1 gene abnormality.
BANGLADESH J CHILD HEALTH 2022; VOL 46 (1) : 39-41
Phân tích quyết định sản xuất lúa theo tiêu chuẩn chứng nhận tại Tỉnh An Giang: Cách tiếp cận lý thuyết trò chơi
Authors: Đỗ Huy Thiệp , Phạm Bảo Dương
Published: November 2023

An Giang là tỉnh sản xuất lúa gạo lớn thứ hai của cả nước và đẩy mạnh sản xuất lúa gạo theo các tiêu chuẩn chứng nhận là định hướng phát triển quan trọng đối với ngành lúa gạo của tỉnh. Bài báo sử dụng một cách tiếp cận mới là lý thuyết trò chơi để đánh giá quyết định tham gia vào sản xuất lúa gạo theo các tiêu chuẩn chứng nhận của các hộ nông dân trên địa bàn tỉnh. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy ngoài lợi ích về kinh tế thì việc mất đi quyền tự do định đoạt đối với hoạt động sản xuất và phải ghi chép thông tin thường xuyên là những yếu tố quan trọng ảnh hưởng tới quyết định tham gia của hộ. Từ đó, bài báo đưa ra đề xuất là cơ giới hóa kết hợp đồng bộ với số hóa và đẩy mạnh các mô hình góp vốn bằng quyền sử dụng đất tại các hợp tác xã trồng lúa.
Pengembangan Potensi Desa Berbasis Pemanfaatan Sumber Daya Alam Di Desa Togeme Kecamatan Oba Tengah Kota Tidore Kepulauan
Authors: Ahmad Badrun , Taufiq Y.S Muhammad , Hi. Umar Sudirman
Published: November 2023

Maluku Utara memiliki kekayaan sumber daya alam (SDA) melimpah. Wilayah-wilayah yang kaya Sumber Daya Alam (SDA) terutama di Halmahera. Desa Togeme, Kecamatan Oba Tengah, Kota Tidore Kepulauan yang terletak di Halmahera mempunyai banyak potensi alam. Sektor unggulan yang menjadi potensi di desa Togeme antara lain sektor perkebunan, perikanan, dan peternakan. Potensi desa ini perlu dimaksimalkan dengan pemanfaatan secara optimal tiga potensi ini. Di sektor perkebunan, Togeme kaya dengan pohon kelapa. Di Togeme buah kelapa hanya diolah untuk pembuatan kopra, sedangkan air kelapa, batok, dan sabuk dibuang. Kegiatan PKM ini mempresentasikan tutorial pemanfaatan air kelapa menjadi nata de coco, batok kelapa diolah menjadi barang seni, dan sabuk kelapa untuk pembuatan topi dan keset. Di sektor perikanan, ditunjukkan bimbingan teknis dengan video tutorial tentang pemanfaatan sisik ikan untuk pembuatan hiasan imitasi. Pada sektor peternakan, diperlihatkan video tentang pengolahan kotoran untuk pembuatan biogas pengganti minyak tanah untuk kebutuhan memasak sehari-hari.Kata Kunci: Potensi Desa, Perkebunan, Perikanan, Peternakan
Pendampingan Pradesain Tanggul Pantai pada Kawasan Permukiman Sidangoli Gam
Authors: Misbah Zulkarnain K. , Suyuti Suyuti
Published: November 2023

ABSTRAKProvinsi Maluku Utara memiliki Jumlah desa pesisir sebanyak 856 Desa (79 % Dari Jumlah 1.079 Desa), dinama banyak permukiman desa-desa yang berhadapan langsung dengan lautan pasifik di pulau Halmahera. Desa Sindangoli Gam adalah berada di kecamatan Jailolo Selatan, Kabupaten Halmahera Barat. Dimana desa ini sebelumnya berada di pesisir pantai yang banyak tanaman pohon bakau. Namun saat ini sudah habis karena abrasi pantai yang sangat dahsat. Nelayan memiliki tradisi membangun rumah-rumah di wilayah pesisir dengan konstruksi sederhana dan arsitektur tradisional.Metode survey untuk menyusun pradesain tanggul pantai dengan metode survey lapangan dan pengukuran/pengamatan di sekitar pantai. Survey mata pencarian, kondisi abrasi sekitar rumah warga, eksisting bangunan dan survey pengamatan pasang surut gelombang, geometri abrasi pantai serta batimetri.Hasil pradesain perletakan konstruksi penahan abrasi pantai yang menggunakan beton inovasi tetrapod untuk sepanjang kurang lebih 800 m, tinggi 2m, lebar atas 3 m, dan lebar bawah 7,50m dengan jumlah tetrapod sebanyak 7,520 buah.Kata Kunci: Sidangoli gam, Tanggul, Abrasi, Cerucuk, Batu kosong
GAME EDUKASI â€œBETTER TYPERâ€ BERBASIS DESTOP UNTUK MELATIH KEMAMPUAN MENGETIK PEGAWAI UPT BAHASA UNIVERSITAS KHAIRUN
Authors: Arief Assaf , Amin Fakhri , Ahmad Badrun
Published: November 2023

Kemampuan mengetik cepat merupakan salah satu keterampilan dasar untuk mempercepat pekerjaan pegawai administrasi. Dampak perkembangan teknologi adalah jenis-jenis pekerjaan yang sebelumnya menuntut kemampuan fisik cukup besar kini relatif sudah digantikan dengan perangkat mesin otomatis, seperti komputer. Karena alat input paling utama sebuah komputer adalah keyboard, untuk mengoptimalkan penggunaan komputer yang efisien sekaligus bertujuan untuk mengurangi hasil ketikan yang kurang memuaskan dan kesalahan dalam mengetik yang sering kali terjadi (typo), maka diperlukan keterampilan dalam mengetik. Metode pengembangan sistem yang digunakan dalam Pengabdian ini adalah Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC). Produk hasil pengabdian berupa Game edukasi Better Typer yang dapat menjadi sarana dalam pelatihan mengetik bagi siapa saja yang ingin meningkatkan keterampilan mengetik dengan cara yang asyik yang dapat di gunakan oleh pegawai UPT Bahasa Universitas Khairun. Dengan level yang menarik dan polesan desain yang estetik.
Kompostlaştırılmış büyükbaş hayvan gübresinin aşısız karpuz üretimindeki kullanım etkinliği
Authors: MALTAŞ Ahmet Şafak
Published: November 2023

Bu çalışmada kompostlaştırılmış büyük baş hayvan gübresinin kumlu topraklarda aşısız karpuz yetiştiriciliğinde kullanılmasını etkileri araştırılmıştır. Çalışma U1: kimyasal gübre, U2: 250 kg/da büyük baş hayvan gübresi+kimyasal gübre, U3: 500 kg/da büyük baş hayvan gübresi+kimyasal gübre U4: 1000 kg/da büyük baş hayvan gübresi+kimyasal gübre olmak üzere 4 konu 3 tekerrürlü olarak yürütülmüştür. Uygulamaların meyve verimi üzerine etkileri incelendiğinde, en yüksek verim her iki dönemde de 500 kg/da büyük baş hayvan gübresi+kimyasal gübre uygulamasından elde edilmiştir. Meyve verimi U4 uygulamasında kontrole oranla %4.58, U3 uygulamasına göre %14.29 azalmıştır. Organik gübre uygulamalarının karpuz bitkisinin meyvesinin kabuk kalınlığını 1. dönemde düşürdüğü, 2. dönemde ise artırdığı belirlenmiştir. Meyve içi sertlik kriteri incelendiğinde en yüksek değer U4 uygulamasından elde edilmiştir. Organik gübre uygulamaları meyve dış kabuk renginin L değerini arttırmış, meyve eti renginin L değeri ise 2. dönemde düşürmüştür. Organik gübre uygulamaları meyve eti renginin C değerini azaltmıştır. Karpuz yapraklarının makro element kapsamları incelendiğinde toplam azot, toplam kalsiyum ve toplam magnezyum artarken, toplam fosfor ve toplam potasyum organik gübre uygulamalarına bağlı olarak azalmıştır. Karpuz bitkisinin yapraklarında bulunan potasyum kapsamı 1. döneme göre, 2. dönemde %12.58 artmıştır. Organik gübre uygulamaları karpuz yapraklarında bulunan demir ve çinko kapsamını artırmış, mangan kapsamını azalmıştır. Kumlu topraklarda aşısız karpuz yetiştiriciliğinde bitki beslenmesi, meyve verimi ve kalitesi bakımından en iyi sonucun 500 kg/da kompostlaştırılmış büyük baş hayvan gübresi kullanımından elde edildiği düşünülmektedir.
A rapid assessment of the status of sawfishes in the Philippines
Authors: Leeney RH , Bagarinao-Regalado A , Verdote D , Drury Salgado C
Published: November 2023

Globally, sawfishes are amongst the most threatened of all sharks and rays, but a paucity of current data on their presence and status has limited conservation action in many countries. Whilst 2 sawfish species, Pristis pristis and P. zijsron, were historically present in the Philippines, a lack of recent reports suggests that they may have become extremely rare. To determine the current status of sawfishes in the Philippines, interviews were conducted with 106 fishers, fish brokers and fisheries officers at 31 sites in 2016. Interviewees confirmed that sawfishes had inhabited Laguna de Bay and the Agusan and Cagayan Rivers in the past, but the majority of interviewees had last seen a sawfish several decades ago. The most recent observations of a sawfish reported during interviews were in 2014, at the estuary of the Tamontaka River, Mindanao, and at Mercedes fish port, Bicol. After the study, photographic evidence of the landing in 2015 of a largetooth sawfish in Zamboanga Peninsula was published on social media. The considerable degradation and modification of freshwater ecosystems, mangrove loss, coastal degradation, fishing pressure and widespread bottom trawling since the 1940s have all likely contributed to sawfish declines. This study confirms that sawfishes, previously abundant in the Philippines, are now extremely rare or locally extinct. Bottlenose wedgefish Rhynchobatus australiae were observed at Mercedes port during the study and interviewees stated that they are landed regularly. Given the Critically Endangered status of this species, this fishery likely needs immediate management.
Extracellular Vesicle Heterogeneity and its Translational Implications for Cardiac Repair
Authors:   , van de Wakker Simonides Immanuel
Published: November 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small vesicles naturally produced by cells to transfer bioactive content to other cells. This thesis addresses key challenges in translating EV therapeutics in the context of cardiac repair. This work encompasses multiple projects with a focus on enhancing their functional delivery, purification, preservation, and understanding of their functional heterogeneity.
The study begins by demonstrating the potential of EV-liposome hybrid nanoparticles for delivering therapeutic cargo, showcasing their promise as future carriers for siRNA. The development of novel EV isolation methods is crucial for large-scale applications; a multimodal flow-through chromatography (MFC) method is introduced as a scalable alternative to conventional methods. Furthermore, preserving EV stability during concentration and storage is explored, resulting in optimized conditions that significantly boost EV recovery rates while maintaining functionality. The thesis also delves into the complexity of EV heterogeneity and its impact on their therapeutic potential. By purifying EV subpopulations using the combination of MFC and size-exclusion chromatography, differences in properties, proteomic composition, and functionality among subpopulations were unveiled, particularly in the context of cardiac regeneration. Asymmetric flow field flow fractionation is introduced as an alternative method for EV separation, offering higher yields and better preservation of EV function compared to MFC, with the added capability of subpopulation separation.
Collectively, these findings provide valuable insights for advancing EV-based therapeutics. By addressing critical challenges in delivery, isolation, preservation, and understanding heterogeneity, this work contributes to the potential clinical translation of EVs. The study underscores the promise of EVs in regenerative medicine and drug delivery, offering tailored approaches to optimize their therapeutic potential. Advances in these areas will enhance the efficiency and reproducibility of EV treatments and ultimately accelerate the translation of EV-based therapeutics towards clinical application.
A New Landmark for Wellbeing in Psoriasis: The POSITIVE Study
Authors: Taylor Jennifer
Published: November 2023

Psoriatic disease is a chronic condition that affects both physical and psychological health. Some patients experience stigmatisation, as well as social and professional limitations. The detrimental impacts of the condition can be summarised under the overall umbrella of wellbeing, with evidence accumulating that psoriasis impacts the wellbeing of both patients and their families. Patients with psoriasis have traditionally been evaluated using the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI), which assesses disease severity, and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), which examines quality of life. Both of these measures fail to adequately evaluate wellbeing.

In these interviews with EMJ, Matthias Augustin, Director of the Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing (IVDP), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany; and Ulrich Mrowietz, Psoriasis Center, Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany describe the landmark POSITIVE study, the relevance of looking beyond skin lesions and including measures of wellbeing in clinical practice, and how the 5-item World Health Organization Well-Being Index (WHO-5) can be used to assess wellbeing in patients with psoriasis. They discuss POSITIVE, the first clinical study in dermatology to use patient-reported wellbeing, assessed using the WHO-5, as a primary endpoint to estimate the impact of the IL-23p19 inhibitor, tildrakizumab, on overall wellbeing in a real-world setting. The POSITIVE study is a new landmark for psoriasis management, and demonstrated that treatment with tildrakizumab was associated with improvements in disease severity, and increased wellbeing of patients, recovering back to normal population levels. This is the first time that a biologic treatment for psoriasis has shown these results. The interviewees concluded that wellbeing assessments should be incorporated into daily clinical practice to evaluate treatment response, and provide patients with more holistic management.
Siyaset Düşüncesi Bağlamında Telemakhos’un Maceraları’nın Tercüme-i Telemak’a Tesiri
Authors: AKTÜRKOĞLU Mustafa Enes
Published: November 2023

François Fenelon’un Telemakhos’un Maceraları isimli eseri 17. asrın sonu 18. asrın başlarında Fransa Kralı XIV. Louis’in tahkim ettiği mutlak idareye karşı sessiz bir eleştiriyi yansıtmaktadır. Avrupa’nın Reform Hareketi sonrasında siyasal bölünmüşlüğü büyük savaşlarla birlikte hem devlet idaresini hem de istikrarı ortadan kaldırmıştır. Dolayısıyla 17. ve 18. asır Avrupalı siyaset düşünürleri devletin meşruiyetinin kaynağına yönelik tartışmalar yapmıştır. Fenelon bu bağlamda hükümdarların siyasi meşruiyetini ilahi bir kökene bağlasa da, hükümdarın sorumluluklarını sözleşmeci bir mantık üzerinden düşünmektedir. Fenelon’un sözleşmeci siyaset düşüncesi Telemakhos’un Maceraları isimli eserinde alegorik bir anlatımla ifade bulmuştur.

Telemakhos’un Maceraları, Devlet-i Aliyye’de Sultan III. Selim ve Sultan II. Mahmud’un hanedan merkezli siyasetin bir sonucu olarak ilgiyle okunmuştur. Tanzimat Fermanı sonrasında Osmanlı ricali ve düşünürlerinin Fenelon’un eserine ilgi duymasında; eserin içinde barındırdığı siyasi sözleşmeci yaklaşım olabilir. Dolayısıyla biz bu makalemizde Fenelon’un Telamakhos’un Maceraları isimli eserinin siyasi teklifi ile Yusuf Kamil Paşa’nın çevirmiş olduğu Tercüme-i Telemak eserini siyaset düşüncesi bağlamında ele almaya çalışacağız.
Links between animal welfare and “One Health”: perception and implementation in Latin America
Authors: Racciatti Débora Silvia , Wiemeyer Guillermo María , González Gracia Luis Andrés , Blanco Carlos , Szmelc Andrea , Orozco María Marcela
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the crucial role of the “One Health” (OH) concept in the prevention, early detection, and mitigation of health issues involving humans, animals, and the environment. Recognizing the intrinsic interdependence among human health, animal health, and environmental well-being is crucial, demanding heightened emphasis. Many health challenges stem from situations that compromise animal welfare (AW), human well-being, environmental sustainability, and vice versa. Recognizing the significance of AW across its five domains is essential for preventing future pandemics and advancing global objectives such as food security, reduction of human suffering, biodiversity conservation, and enhanced productivity in the agricultural-livestock sector.

Methods

From March to May 2023, we conducted an online survey using QuestionPro® to explore perceptions, experiences, ongoing strategies, and activities within disciplines linked to AW and the OH approach in Latin America. Respondents included stakeholders from various disciplines associated with OH and AW.

Results

Our findings reveal that both concepts are currently undergoing an expansion phase in Latin America. However, the interdependencies between AW and OH are not widely recognized. While animal welfare frequently receives significant attention from diverse educational perspectives, the OH approach has gained considerable momentum over the past decade. Academic sectors and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are driving initiatives bridging AW and OH in Latin America, underscoring the need for robust public policies to ensure sustainable strategies.

Discussion

Advocating for greater awareness of the interdependence between AW and OH, this study highlights knowledge gaps among the scientific community and policymakers. Actively engaging with these connections can foster comprehensive strategies to address global health challenges and enhance overall well-being. The “One Welfare” framework and other integrative frameworks hold promise in strengthening the linkages between AW and OH, facilitating theory translation into practical action. Establishing comprehensive, integrated policies that unite these domains is imperative for addressing complex health challenges and advancing the welfare of both animals and humans. Further research and collaborative efforts are essential to transform these concepts into tangible, impactful outcomes.
Integrative metabolomic and transcriptomic reveals potential mechanism for promotion of ginsenoside synthesis in Panax ginseng leaves under different light intensities
Authors: Di Ping , Yang Xiao , Wan Mingming , Han Mei , Zhang Yonggang , Yang Limin
Published: November 2023

Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer is a shade plant, and its leaves are an important medicinal part of P. ginseng. Light intensity plays a crucial role in physiological activities and metabolite accumulation in P. ginseng. Currently, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying physiological changes and quality under different light intensities in P. ginseng leaves. Therefore, we investigated the changes in photosynthetic physiology, secondary metabolism, transcriptomics, and metabolomics of P. ginseng leaves under different light intensities [T20 (20 µmol m-2·s-1), T50 (50 µmol m-2·s−1), T100 (100 μmol m−2·s−1)]]. Higher light intensity positively influenced the yield, photosynthesis, and accumulation of polysaccharides, soluble sugars, terpenoids, and ginsenosides in P. ginseng leaves. The T100 treatment notably promoted the accumulation of ginsenosides in the leaves, resulting in a 68.32% and 45.55% increase in total ginsenosides compared to the T20 and T50 treatments, respectively. Ginsenosides Rg1, Re, Rb1, Rc, Rg2, Rb2, Rb3, and Rd were 1.28-, 1.47-, 2.32-, 1.64-, 1.28-, 2.59-, 1.66-, and 2.28-times higher than in the T20 treatment. Furthermore, 285 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and 4218 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the metabolome and transcriptome of P. ginseng leaves, respectively, were identified. 13 triterpenoid saponins were significantly upregulated, and three were downregulated. The expression of genes encoding photosystem II reaction center proteins was upregulated under the T100 treatment, thereby increasing photosynthetic activity. The T100 treatment enhanced the expression of genes involved in photosynthetic carbon and energy metabolism in P. ginseng. The expression of antenna protein synthesis genes was upregulated under the T20, which increased the ability to capture light in P. ginseng leaves. T100 upregulated the expression of HMGR, SS, CYP716A53v2, UGT74AE, PgUGT1, and UGTPg45, thereby promoting terpene and ginsenoside synthesis. In summary, 100 µmol m−2·s−1 was conducive to quality formation of P. ginseng leaves. This study elucidates molecular mechanisms underlying the photosynthetic physiology and ginsenoside synthesis in P. ginseng under varying light intensities and provides a theoretical basis for the P. ginseng cultivation and its industrial production of secondary metabolites.
Poly I:C-priming of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells promotes a pro-tumorigenic phenotype in an immunocompetent mouse model of prostate cancer
Authors: Rivera-Cruz Cosette M. , Kumar Shreya , Figueiredo Marxa L.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are envisioned as a potential cellular vehicle for targeted cancer therapies due to their tumor tropism and immune permissiveness. An obstacle in their use is the duality in their interactions within tumors, rendering them pro-tumorigenic or anti-tumorigenic, in a context dependent manner. MSC preconditioning, or priming, has been proposed as a strategy for directing the effector properties of MSC at tumor sites.

Methods: We primed human MSC derived from adipose tissues (ASC), a clinically advantageous MSC source, utilizing toll-like receptor agonists. Subsequently, we explored the consequences in tumor progression and transcriptome upon the interaction of tumor cells with primed or unprimed ASC in an in vivo model of prostate cancer, the second most common cancer and second leading cause of cancer related death in men in the USA.

Results and discussion: In the studied model, poly I:C-primed ASC were found to significantly accelerate tumor growth progression. And while unprimed and LPS-primed ASC did not exert a significant effect on tumor growth at the macroscopic level, gene expression analyses suggested that all treatments promoted distinct modulatory effects in the tumor microenvironment, including altered modulation of angiogenesis, and immune response processes. However, the effects resulting from the collective interaction across these processes must be sufficiently skewed in a pro-tumorigenic or anti-tumorigenic direction for evidence of tumor progression modulation to be detectable at the macroscopic level. Our study highlights potential MSC-tumor microenvironment interactions that may be leveraged and should be considered in the development of cancer therapeutics utilizing MSC.
Isopeptide bond formation mediated by δ-selenolysine for chemical ubiquitination
Authors: Akiyama Tatsunari , Tanaka Yusuke , Okamoto Ryo , Kajihara Yasuhiro , Izumi Masayuki
Published: November 2023

Protein ubiquitination is involved in nearly all biological processes in Eukaryotes. To gain precise insights into the function of ubiquitination in these processes, researchers frequently employ ubiquitinated protein probes with well-defined structures. While chemical protein synthesis has afforded a variety of ubiquitinated protein probes, there remains a demand for efficient synthesis methods for complex probes, such as ubiquitinated glycoproteins and ubiquitinated cysteine-containing proteins. In this study, we introduce a new method to obtain ubiquitinated proteins through isopeptide bond formation mediated by δ-selenolysine residues. We synthesized δ-selenolysine derivatives in both L- and D-forms starting from DL-δ-hydroxy-DL-lysine, accomplished by substituting the δ-mesylate with KSeCN and by enzymatic optical resolution with L- and D-aminoacylase. We synthesized ubiquitin (46–76)-α-hydrazide with a δ-seleno-L-lysine residue at position 48, as well as ubiquitin (46–76)-α-thioester, using solid-phase peptide synthesis. Subsequently, the δ-selenolysine-mediated ligation of these peptides, followed by one-pot deselenization, provided the desired isopeptide-linked ubiquitin peptide. The new δ-selenolysine-mediated isopeptide bond formation offers an alternative method to obtain complex ubiquitin- and ubiquitin-like probes with multiple post-translational modifications. These probes hold promise for advancing our understanding of ubiquitin biology.
Non-pathogenic Neisseria species of the oropharynx as a reservoir of antimicrobial resistance: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gaspari Valeria , Djusse Marielle Ezekielle , Morselli Sara , Rapparini Luca , Foschi Claudio , Ambretti Simone , Lazzarotto Tiziana , Piraccini Bianca Maria , Marangoni Antonella
Published: November 2023

Commensal Neisseria species of the oropharynx represent a significant reservoir of antimicrobial resistance determinants that can be transferred to Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This aspect is particularly crucial in ‘men having sex with men’ (MSM), a key population in which pharyngeal co-colonization by N. gonorrhoeae and non-pathogenic Neisseria species is frequent and associated with the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Here, we explored the antimicrobial susceptibility of a large panel of non-pathogenic Neisseria species isolated from the oropharynx of two populations: a group of MSM attending a ‘sexually transmitted infection’ clinic in Bologna (Italy) (n=108) and a group of males representing a ‘general population’ (n=119). We collected 246 strains, mainly belonging to N. subflava (60%) and N. flavescens (28%) species. Their antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated assessing the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, cefotaxime, and ceftriaxone using E-test strips. Overall, commensal Neisseria spp. showed high rates of resistance to azithromycin (90%; median MICs: 4.0 mg/L), and ciprofloxacin (58%; median MICs: 0.12 mg/L), whereas resistance to cephalosporins was far less common (<15%). Neisseria strains from MSM were found to have significantly higher MICs for azithromycin (p=0.0001) and ciprofloxacin (p<0.0001) compared to those from the general population. However, there was no significant difference in cephalosporin MICs between the two groups. The surveillance of the antimicrobial resistance of non-pathogenic Neisseria spp. could be instrumental in predicting the risk of the spread of multi-drug resistant gonorrhea. This information could be an early predictor of an excessive use of antimicrobials, paving the way to innovative screening and prevention policies.
Drug target, class level, and PathFX pathway information share utility for machine learning prediction of common drug-induced side effects
Authors: Liu Han Jie , Wilson Jennifer L.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Development of drugs often fails due to toxicity and intolerable side effects. Recent advancements in the scientific community have rendered it possible to leverage machine learning techniques to predict individual side effects with domain knowledge features (i.e., drug classification). While several factors can be used to anticipate drug effects including their targets, pathways, and drug classes, it is unclear which domain knowledge is most predictive and whether certain domain knowledge is more important than others for different side effects.

Methods: The goal of this project is to understand the predictive values of drug targets, drug classification (i.e., level 2 ATC codes), and protein-protein interaction networks (i.e., PathFX targets and network proteins) for machine learning prediction of 30 frequently occurring drug-induced side effects.

Results: We compared the prediction accuracy for individual side effects of trained models across five domain knowledge combinations and discovered that level 2 ATC codes have the highest predictive value across the domain knowledge features. Logistic regression coefficient analyses further suggest that side effects are more dependent on drug targets and drug classes, and less so on PathFX targets and network proteins.

Discussion: Our quantitative assessments may inform the development of safe and effective drugs by understanding the domain knowledge features underlying frequently occurring drug-induced side effects.
The effect of teachers’ empowerment on government secondary schools’ performance in Konso zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Tukura Addisu , Sapo Solomon
Published: November 2023

This study was conducted in government secondary schools in the Konso zone, southern Ethiopia, to investigate the effect of teachers’ professional empowerment on school performance. A correlational explanatory research design and a mixed research approach were used. The participants of this study were 350 including teachers, principals, supervisors, and heads of educational offices. The secondary schools and their respective principals, supervisors and educational office heads were selected purposively where as teachers were selected randomly. The participants provided written informed consent to participate in this study. Both primary and secondary data gathered through interviews, questionnaires, and document reviews were used. Qualitative data were arranged into themes then analyzed and interpreted whereas quantitative data were analyzed by SPSS V.20. Among teachers in the study area, the majority (90.3%) were males and all of the principals, supervisors and education head offices were males indicating gender imbalance in the educational system. Teachers primarily (3.81 ± 1.098) participate in decision-making by consultation, followed by their involvement in setting school goals and objectives (3.78 ± 1.20). In-service trainings were primarily (4.03 ± 1.14) offered to change the attitudes and skills of teachers and strengthen profession (3.78 ± 1.20). The respondents weakly agree (3.65 ± 1.16) that school leaders provide opportunities for teachers to work actively for better school performance. A strong positive correlation (p < 0.01; R2 > 0.8) and interdependence was observed between teachers’ empowerment and school performance. While there were positive signs regarding teachers’ empowerment in the study schools, these measures were not implemented in a way that met teachers’ needs. Also, the school performance activities implemented fell short of teachers’ expectations, requiring further administrative action. To boost school performance, school leaders should identify teachers’ needs and provide them with professional learning. Future works should consider the unstudied secondary, elementary and primary schools to have a clear picture of the issues of teachers’ empowerment and its effect on school performance in all the secondary schools of the study area.
Evaluation of adipokines concentrations in plasma, peritoneal, and endometrioma fluids in women operated on for ovarian endometriosis
Authors: Wójtowicz Mariusz , Zdun Dariusz , Owczarek Aleksander Jerzy , Skrzypulec-Plinta Violetta , Olszanecka-Glinianowicz Magdalena
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Some studies indicate the role of selected adipokines in the development of endometriosis. However, a comprehensive assessment of plasma, peritoneal, and endometrioma fluids adipokines concentrations in women with ovarian endometriosis has not yet been performed. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze plasma, peritoneal, and endometrioma fluids selected adipokines concentrations in women operated on for ovarian endometriosis.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional cohort study involved 56 women operated on for ovarian endometriosis. Body mass, height, and waist circumference were measured, and BMI was calculated. Plasma, peritoneal, and endometrioma fluids adiponectin, leptin, omentin resistin, RBP4, and visfatin/NAMPT were determined by ELISA.

Results

The highest plasma levels of adiponectin, leptin, omentin, and RBP4 than in the endometrioma and peritoneal fluids were found, while levels of resistin and visfatin/NAMPT were significantly higher in endometrioma fluid than in plasma and peritoneal fluid. In addition, levels of visfatin/NAMPT were significantly higher in peritoneal fluid than in plasma. There were also positive correlations between leptin, RBP4, and adiponectin levels in endometrioma and peritoneal fluids (ρ = 0.28; p < 0.05; ρ = 0.31; p < 0.05; ρ= 0.32; p < 0.05, respectively). There were no associations between adipokines levels in plasma, endometrioma, and peritoneal fluids and endometriosis stage.

Conclusion

Our results show that visfatin/NAMPT and resistin may be locally secreted in endometrioma related to inflammation regardless of the stage of endometriosis.