bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drivers and barriers of seasonal influenza vaccination 2015/16 & 2019/20 to 2022/23 - a survey on why most Norwegians don’t get the flu vaccine
Authors: Klüwer Birgitte , Rydland Kjersti Margrethe , Mamelund Svenn-Erik , Gleditsch Rebecca Nybru
Published: October 2024

Background

This study aimed to explore the reasons adults in the general population, influenza risk groups (RGs) and health care workers (HCWs) in Norway give for their vaccination choices and whether these reasons vary between groups or over time in order to further improve influenza vaccination coverage.

Methods

Respondents of a nationally representative telephone survey conducted by Statistics Norway were asked “What was the most important reason why you did/did not get vaccinated?”. The question on influenza non-vaccination was included in 2016 and in 2020 to 2023 and the question on influenza vaccination in 2021 to 2023.

Results

The study included 9 705 individuals aged 18–79 years. Influenza vaccination coverage in the RGs increased from 20.6% in 2016 to 63.1% in 2022, before a reduction to 58.3% in 2023. Common reasons for non-vaccination were similar in all groups. The most cited reasons were “no need” for the vaccine and “no specific reason”, followed by “not recommended/offered the vaccine”, “worry about side effects” and “vaccine refusal”. The most frequent reasons for vaccination among the general population and RGs were protection against influenza and belonging to a RG, while the most frequent responses among HCWs were being offered the vaccine at work/work in health care, followed by a desire for protection against influenza. Receiving a vaccine recommendation from a health professional was mentioned in all groups. We also observed that the proportion reporting “no need” for the vaccine decreased over time, especially among HCWs, and that the proportions reporting vaccine refusal and worry about side effects as reasons for non-vaccination were temporarily reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions

The general population and RGs cite protection against influenza as their primary incentive for vaccination, while HCWs mainly refer to their professional role or workplace vaccination. For non-vaccination we see a similar pattern in all groups, with “no need” and “no specific reason” as the main reasons. Of note, worry about side effects and vaccine refusal is as frequent among HCWs as in other groups. Continued efforts to maintain and increase vaccine confidence are needed.
Therapeutic delivery of recombinant glucocerebrosidase enzyme-containing extracellular vesicles to human cells from Gaucher disease patients
Authors: Janpipatkul Keatdamrong , Sutjarit Nareerat , Tangprasittipap Amornrat , Chaiamarit Tai , Innachai Pawarit , Suksen Kanoknetr , Chokpanuwat Tanida , Tim-Aroon Thipwimol , Anurathapan Usanarat , Jearawiriyapaisarn Natee , Tubsuwan Alisa , Bowornpinyo Supareak , Asavapanumas Nithi , Chairoungdua Arthit , Bhukhai Kanit , Hongeng Suradej
Published: October 2024

Background

Gaucher disease (GD) is one of the most common types of lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) caused by pathogenic variants of lysosomal β-glucocerebrosidase gene (GBA1), resulting in the impairment of Glucocerebrosidase (GCase) enzyme function and the accumulation of a glycolipid substrate, glucosylceramide (GlcCer) within lysosomes. Current therapeutic approaches such as enzyme replacement therapy and substrate reduction therapy cannot fully rescue GD pathologies, especially neurological symptoms. Meanwhile, delivery of lysosomal enzymes to the endocytic compartment of affected human cells is a promising strategy for treating neuropathic LSDs.

Result

Here, we describe a novel approach to restore GCase enzyme in cells from neuropathic GD patients by producing extracellular vesicle (EVs)-containing GCase from cells overexpressing GBA1 gene. Lentiviral vectors containing modified GBA1 were introduced into HEK293T cells to produce a stable cell line that provides a sustainable source of functional GCase enzyme. The GBA1-overexpressing cells released EV-containing GCase enzyme, that is capable of entering into and localizing in the endocytic compartment of recipient cells, including THP-1 macrophage, SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma, and macrophages and neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) of neuropathic GD patients. Importantly, the recipient cells exhibit higher GCase enzyme activity.

Conclusion

This study presents a promising therapeutic strategy to treat severe types of LSDs. It involves delivering lysosomal enzymes to the endocytic compartment of human cells affected by conditions such as GDs with neurological symptoms, as well as potentially other neurological disorders impacting lysosomes.
High-affinity antibodies specific to the core region of the tau protein exhibit diagnostic and therapeutic potential for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Arastoo Mohammad , Penny Lewis K. , Lofthouse Richard , Abdallah Aya , Abrahamsson Anna , Marini Pietro , Melis Valeria , Riedel Gernot , Harrington Charles R. , Wischik Claude M. , Porter Andrew , Palliyil Soumya
Published: October 2024

Background

Recent advances in blood-based biomarker discovery are paving the way for simpler, more accessible diagnostic tools that can detect early signs of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recent successes in the development of amyloid-targeting immunotherapy approaches mark an important advancement in providing new options for the treatment of AD. We have developed a set of high-affinity monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to tau protein that have the potential as tools for diagnosis and treatment of AD.

Methods

Sheep were immunised with either full-length tau (1-441) or truncated paired helical filament (PHF)-core tau (297–391). A stringent bio-panning and epitope selection strategy, with a particular focus directed to epitopes within the disease-relevant PHF-core tau, was used to identify single-chain antibodies (scAbs). These scAbs were ranked by affinity for each epitope class, with leads converted to high-affinity mAbs. These antibodies and their potential utility were assessed by their performance in tau immunoassays, as well as their ability to prevent tau aggregation and propagation. Further characterisation of these antibodies was performed by immunohistochemical staining of brain sections and immuno-gold electronmicroscopy of isolated PHFs.

Results

Our work resulted in a set of high-affinity antibodies reacting with multiple epitopes spanning the entire tau protein molecule. The tau antibodies directed against the core tau unit of the PHF inhibited pathological aggregation and seeding using several biochemical and cell assay systems. Through staining of brain sections and PHFs, the panel of antibodies revealed which tau epitopes were available, truncated, or occluded. In addition, highly sensitive immunoassays were developed with the ability to distinguish between and quantify various tau fragments.

Conclusion

This article introduces an alternative immunodiagnostic approach based on the concept of a “tauosome” – the diverse set of tau fragments present within biological fluids. The development of an antibody panel that can distinguish a range of different tau fragments provides the basis for a novel approach to potential diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression. Our results further support the notion that tau immunotherapy targeting the PHF-core needs to combine appropriate selection of both the target epitope and antibody affinity to optimise therapeutic potential.
Discordant definitions of small airway dysfunction between spirometry and parametric response mapping: the HRCT-based study
Authors: Chen Bin , Gao Pan , Yang Yuling , Ma Zongjing , Sun Yingli , Lu Jinjuan , Qi Lin , Li Ming
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To analyze the lung structure of small airway dysfunction (SAD) defined by spirometry and parametric response mapping (PRM) using high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), and to analyze the predictive factors for SAD.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted with 388 participants undergoing pulmonary function test (PFT) and inspiratory-expiratory chest CT scans. The clinical data and HRCT assessments of SAD patients defined by both methods were compared. A prediction model for SAD was constructed based on logistic regression.

Results

SAD was defined in 122 individuals by spirometry and 158 by PRM. In HRCT visual assessment, emphysema, tree-in-bud sign, and bronchial wall thickening have higher incidence in SAD defined by each method. (p < 0.001). Quantitative CT showed that spirometry-SAD had thicker airway walls (p < 0.001), smaller lumens (p = 0.011), fewer bronchi (p < 0.001), while PRM-SAD had slender blood vessels. Predictive factors for spirometry-SAD were age, male gender, the volume percentage of emphysema in PRM (PRMEmph), tree-in-bud sign, bronchial wall thickening, bronchial count; for PRM-SAD were age, male gender, BMI, tree-in-bud sign, emphysema, the percentage of blood vessel volume with a cross-sectional area less than 1 mm2 (BV1/TBV). The area under curve (AUC) values for the fitted predictive models were 0.855 and 0.808 respectively.

Conclusions

Compared with PRM, SAD defined by spirometry is more closely related to airway morphology, while PRM is sensitive to early pulmonary dysfunction but may be interfered by pulmonary vessels. Models combining patient information and HRCT assessment have good predictive value for SAD.

Critical relevance statement

HRCT reveals lung structural differences in small airway dysfunction defined by spirometry and parametric response mapping. This insight aids in understanding methodological differences and developing radiological tools for small airways that align with pathophysiology.

Key Points

Spirometry-SAD shows thickened airway walls, narrowed lumen, and reduced branch count, which are closely related to airway morphology.

PRM shows good sensitivity to early pulmonary dysfunction, although its assessment of SAD based on gas trapping may be affected by the density of pulmonary vessels and other lung structures.

Combining patient information and HRCT features, the fitted model has good predictive performance for SAD defined by both spirometry and PRM (AUC values are 0.855 and 0.808, respectively).

Graphical Abstract
Effects of microbe-derived antioxidants on growth performance, hepatic oxidative stress, mitochondrial function and cell apoptosis in weaning piglets
Authors: Yu Chengbing , Luo Yuxiao , Shen Cheng , Luo Zhen , Zhang Hongcai , Zhang Jing , Xu Weina , Xu Jianxiong
Published: October 2024

Background

Weaning causes redox dyshomeostasis in piglets, which leads to hepatic oxidative damage. Microbe-derived antioxidants (MA) have great potential for anti-oxidation. This study aimed to investigate changes in hepatic redox system, mitochondrial function and apoptosis after weaning, and effects of MA on growth performance and liver health in weaning piglets.

Methods

This study consisted of 2 experiments. In the both experiments, piglets were weaned at 21 days of age. In Exp. 1, at 21 (W0), 22 (W1), 25 (W4), 28 (W7), and 35 (W14) days of age, 6 piglets were slaughtered at each timepoint. In Exp. 2, piglets were divided into 2 groups: one received MA gavage (MA) and the other received saline gavage (CON). At 25 days of age, 6 piglets from each group were sacrificed.

Results

In Exp. 1, weaning caused growth inhibition and liver developmental retardation from W0 to W4. The mRNA sequencing between W0 and W4 revealed that pathways related to “regulation of apoptotic process” and “reactive oxygen species metabolic process” were enriched. Further study showed that weaning led to higher hepatic content of reactive oxygen species (ROS), H2O2 and O2−. Weaning enhanced mitochondrial fission and suppressed their fusion, activated mitophagy, thus triggering cell apoptosis. In Exp. 2, MA improved growth performance of piglets with higher average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI). The hepatic ROS, as well as products of oxidative damage malonaldehyde (MDA) and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in the MA group decreased significantly than that of the CON group. The MA elevated mitochondrial membrane potential, increased activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes (MRC) I and IV, enhanced mitochondrial fusion and reduced mitophagy, thus decreasing cell apoptosis.

Conclusions

The present study showed that MA improved the growth performance of weaning piglets and reversed weaning-induced oxidative damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis. Our results suggested that MA had promising prospects for maintaining liver health in weaning piglets and provided a reference for studies of liver diseases in humans.

Graphical Abstract
Improvements in executive functions by domain-specific cognitive training in youth elite soccer players
Authors: Heilmann Florian , Knöbel Simon , Lautenbach Franziska
Published: October 2024

This study examined the impact of sport-specific cognitive training (CT) on executive functions (EFs) in youth soccer players. Thirty-one athletes (13–15 years) participated, 13 in the intervention group (IG) and 18 in the control group (CG). The IG underwent an 8-week soccer-focused CT program, while the CG maintained regular training. The assessments included working memory, inhibition, and cognitive flexibility tasks. The results revealed no significant improvements in EFs in the IG compared to those in the CG. Both groups showed enhanced cognitive flexibility, possibly due to general cognitive development or learning effects. The study suggested that an 8-week sport-specific CT may not enhance EFs in young soccer players, potentially due to a ceiling effect in highly skilled athletes. These findings should be considered when designing cognitive training programs for athletes, and future research could explore the optimal duration of such programs.
Towards validating invalidated knowledge: a discourse analysis of firsthand accounts of hearing voices
Authors: Ynnesdal Haugen Lill Susann
Published: October 2024

Background

As Foucault historically traced, dialogs about madness were silenced with the emergence of biomedical psychiatry. The silence entailed the epistemic violence of invalidating persons who hear voices as knowers, arguably leaving them without validating sensemaking languages for firsthand experiences. This article analyzes five Norwegian firsthand accounts of hearing voices, and how they differed from the predominating biomedical psychiatry discourse, in search of validating languages and knowledge that may facilitate making sense of voice-hearing for persons who hear voices.

Methods

The text material consisted of four sets of blogs authored by four young women and a short interview with a man, all of whom had firsthand experiences of voice-hearing in a Norwegian context. Ian Parker’s version of Foucauldian discourse analysis was used to analyze the material.

Results

Six discourses were identified: biomedical psychiatry-discourse, discourse of reason, psychodynamic discourse, discourse of personal characteristics, spiritual discourse and discourse of personal relationships between hearer and voices. Within the discourses of biomedical psychiatry and reason, voice-hearing was rendered as hallucinations, unreason, and as a problem to be solved, preferably by professionals, thus silencing the person who hears voices. In contrast, within the discourses of psychodynamics, personal characteristics, spirituality, and personal relationships between hearer and voices, voice-hearing has diverse meanings, and they grant voice hearers greater freedom concerning voice-hearing. The psychodynamic discourse nonetheless aligns with the discourses of reason and biomedical psychiatry in allowing professionals the prerogative of determining the meaning of voice-hearing. The remaining three discourses appear to facilitate more space for voice-hearers to narrate and engage with their voice-hearing at their discretion, with little to no professional impingement.

Conclusions

Discursive complexity notwithstanding, I consider that particularly the discourses of personal characteristics, spirituality, and personal relationships facilitate languages that may enable a person to narrate their own experiences and actions at their own discretion, without needing an expert commentator on the side. To have such languages available is argued to entail clear strides towards more empowered positions in one’s life.
Review of the technology used for structural characterization of the GMO genome using NGS data
Authors: Moon Kahee , Basnet Prakash , Um Taeyoung , Choi Ik-Young
Published: October 2024

The molecular characterization of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is essential for ensuring safety and gaining regulatory approval for commercialization. According to CODEX standards, this characterization involves evaluating the presence of introduced genes, insertion sites, copy number, and nucleotide sequence structure. Advances in technology have led to the increased use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) over traditional methods such as Southern blotting. While both methods provide high reproducibility and accuracy, Southern blotting is labor-intensive and time-consuming due to the need for repetitive probe design and analyses for each target, resulting in low throughput. Conversely, NGS facilitates rapid and comprehensive analysis by mapping whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data to plasmid sequences, accurately identifying T-DNA insertion sites and flanking regions. This advantage allows for efficient detection of T-DNA presence, copy number, and unintended gene insertions without additional probe work. This paper reviews the current status of GMO genome characterization using NGS and proposes more efficient strategies for this purpose.
Association of Participation in Medicare's Oncology Care Model With Spending, Utilization, and Quality Outcomes Among Commercially Insured and Medicare Advantage Members
Authors: Mullangi Samyukta , Ukert Benjamin , Devries Andrea , Debono David , Santos Jason , Fisch Michael J. , Schleicher Stephen M. , Navathe Amol S. , Bekelman Justin E. , Schwartz Aaron L. , Parikh Ravi B.
Published: October 2024

PURPOSE

The Oncology Care Model (OCM), a value-based payment model for traditional Medicare beneficiaries with cancer, yielded total spending reductions that were outweighed by incentive payments, resulting in net losses to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. We studied whether the OCM yielded spillover effects in total episode spending, utilization, and quality among commercially insured and Medicare Advantage (MA) members, who were not targeted by the program.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This observational study used administrative claims from a large national payer, yielding 157,189 total patients with commercial insurance or MA with solid malignancies who initiated 229,376 systemic anticancer therapy episodes before (2012-2015) and during (2016-2021) the OCM at 125 OCM-participating practices (a subset of total OCM practices) and a 1:10 propensity-matched set of 860 non-OCM practices. We used difference-in-differences analyses to assess the association between the OCM and total episode spending, defined as medical spending during a 6-month episode. Secondary outcomes included hospitalization and emergency department (ED) utilization and quality measures.

RESULTS

From the pre-OCM to the OCM period, mean total episode payments increased from $45,504 in US dollars (USD) to $46,239 USD for OCM-participating practices, and increased from $50,519 USD to $58,591 USD for non-OCM practices (adjusted difference-in-differences –$6,287 USD [95% CI, –$10,076 USD to –$2,498 USD],
P
= .001). The OCM was associated with adjusted spending decreases for both high-risk (–$6,756 USD [95% CI, –$10,731 USD to –$2,781 USD],
P
= .001) and low-risk (–$4,171 USD [95% CI, –$7,799 USD to –$543 USD],
P
= .025) episodes. OCM-associated spending reductions were strongest for outpatient (–$5,243 USD [95% CI, –$8,589 USD to –$1,897 USD],
P
= .002) and infused/injected anticancer drug (–$3,031 USD [95% CI, –$5,193 USD to –$869 USD],
P
= .006) spending. There were no associations between OCM participation and changes in hospital or ED utilization nor quality of care.

CONCLUSION

The OCM was associated with reductions in spending for nontargeted members, a spillover effect.
State of Geographic Access to Cancer Treatment Trials in the United States: Are Studies Located Where Patients Live?
Authors: Kirkwood M. Kelsey , Schenkel Caroline , Hinshaw Dominique C. , Bruinooge Suanna S. , Waterhouse David M. , Peppercorn Jeffrey M. , Subbiah Ishwaria M. , Levit Laura A.
Published: October 2024

PURPOSE

In this study, we describe the geographic distribution of US cancer treatment trials to identify disparities and opportunities for targeted improvements in access to research for people with cancer.

METHODS

US-based phase I-III cancer treatment trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov were tabulated for the years they were open to enrollment (2017-2022), overall and by county, and supplemented with data from the US Census Bureau, National Cancer Institute, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and US Department of Agriculture. We evaluated geographic differences in trial availability. We assessed 5-year trends in trials per capita and mapped 1-hour drive time areas around sites.

RESULTS

A total of 6,710 trials were open to enrollment in 2022 across 1,836 sites. Trials increased by 4%, whereas sites decreased by 3% annually per capita from 2017. Seventy percent of US counties had no reported active trials in 2022 (2,211/3,143), representing 19% of people age ≥55 years. Eighty-six percent of nonmetropolitan counties had no trials versus 44% of metropolitan counties. Trial availability varied by county-level cancer mortality and social vulnerability (an index derived from demographic and socioeconomic data from the US Census). Eighteen percent of counties without trials had oncologist care sites (n = 618). Notably, 26% of people age ≥55 years lived beyond an hour drive of a site with ≥100 trials.

CONCLUSION

Most US counties have limited to no trial offerings, a disparity magnified in counties that are nonmetropolitan, with high social vulnerability, and with high cancer mortality. Effort to facilitate diverse site participation is needed to promote equitable access to trials and to ensure patients participating in trials match the characteristics of patients who will receive interventions once approved. Counties with oncology care sites but no trials provide potential expansion areas.
Neuromodulation for Neuropathic Pain Syndromes
Authors: Shirvalkar Prasad
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the principles, applications, and emerging trends of neuromodulation as a therapeutic approach for managing painful neuropathic diseases. By parsing evidence for possible mechanisms of action and clinical trial outcomes for various diseases, this article focuses on five common therapy modalities: cutaneous, peripheral nerve, spinal cord, and brain stimulation, and intrathecal drug delivery.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Recent advances in both invasive and noninvasive neuromodulation for pain have introduced personalized and closed-loop techniques, integrating real-time feedback mechanisms and combining therapies to improve physical and psychosocial function. Novel stimulation waveforms may influence distinct neural tissues to rectify pathologic pain signaling.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

With appropriate patient selection, peripheral nerve stimulation or epidural stimulation of the spinal cord can provide enduring relief for a variety of chronic pain syndromes. Newer technology using high frequencies, unique waveforms, or closed-loop stimulation may have selective advantages, but our current understanding of therapy mechanisms is very poor. For certain diagnoses and patients who meet clinical criteria, neuromodulation can provide profound, long-lasting relief that significantly improves quality of life. While many therapies are supported by data from large clinical trials, there is a risk of bias as most clinical studies were funded by device manufacturers or insurance companies, which increases the importance of real-world data analysis. Emerging methods like invasive or noninvasive brain stimulation may help us dissect basic mechanisms of pain processing and hold promise for personalized therapies for refractory pain syndromes. Finally, intrathecal delivery of drugs directly to segments of the spinal cord can also modify pain signaling to provide therapy for severe pain syndromes.
Opioids and Cannabinoids in Neurology Practice
Authors: Sandbrink Friedhelm , Schuster Nathaniel M.
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE

Opioid and cannabinoid therapies for chronic pain conditions including neuropathic pain are controversial. Understanding patient and prescribing factors contributing to risks and implementing risk mitigation strategies optimizes outcomes.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

The ongoing transformation from a biomedical model of pain care toward a biopsychosocial model has been accompanied by a shift away from opioid therapy for pain, in particular for chronic pain. Opioid overdose deaths and opioid use disorder have greatly increased in the last several decades, initially because of increases in opioid prescribing and more recently associated with illicit drug use, in particular fentanyl derivatives. Opioid risk mitigation strategies may reduce risks related to opioid prescribing and tapering or discontinuation. Opioid therapy guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have become the consensus best practice for opioid therapy. Regulatory agencies and licensing medical boards have implemented restrictions and other mandates regarding opioid therapy. Meanwhile, interest in and use of cannabinoids for chronic pain has grown in the United States.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

Opioid therapy is generally not recommended for the chronic treatment of neuropathic pain conditions. Opioids may be considered for temporary use in patients with severe pain related to selected neuropathic pain conditions (such as postherpetic neuralgia), and only as part of a multimodal treatment regimen. Opioid risk mitigation strategies include careful patient selection and evaluation, patient education and informed consent, querying the state prescription drug monitoring programs, urine drug testing, and issuance of naloxone as potential rescue medication. Close follow-up when initiating or adjusting opioid therapy and frequent reevaluation during long-term opioid therapy is required. There is evidence for the efficacy of cannabinoids for neuropathic pain, with meaningful response rates in select patient populations.
Unveiling the fibrotic puzzle of endometriosis: An overlooked concern calling for prompt action
Authors: Anchan Megha M , Kalthur Guruprasad , Datta Ratul , Majumdar Kabita , P Karthikeyan , Dutta Rahul
Published: October 2024

Endometriosis is a benign, estrogen-dependent, persistent chronic inflammatory heterogeneous condition that features adhesions caused by estrogen-dependent periodic bleeding. It is characterised by a widely spread fibrotic interstitium that comprising of fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, collagen fibres, extracellular proteins, inflammatory cells, and active angiogenesis found outside the uterus. Thus, fibrosis is recognized as a critical component because of which current treatments, such as hormonal therapy and surgical excision of lesions are largely ineffective with severe side effects, high recurrence rates, and significant morbidity. The symptoms include dysmenorrhea (cyclic or non-cyclic), dyspareunia, abdominal discomfort, and infertility. The significant lack of knowledge regarding the underlying root cause, etiology, and complex pathogenesis of this debilitating condition, makes it challenging to diagnose early and to implement therapeutic approaches with minimal side effects presenting substantial hurdles in endometriosis management. Research on understanding the pathogenesis of endometriosis is still ongoing to find biomarkers and develop non-hormonal therapeutic approaches. Current clinical research indicates a close relationship between endometriosis and fibrosis, which is thought to be tightly linked to pain, a major factor for the decline in the patient’s quality of life but little is known about the underlying pathophysiological cellular and molecular signaling pathways that lead to endometriosis-related fibrosis. The available experimental disease models have tremendous challenges in reproducing the human characteristics of the disease to assess treatment effectiveness. Future translational research on the topic has been hindered by the lack of an adequate fibrotic model of endometriosis emphasizing the necessity of etiological exploration. This review article’s goal is to examine recent developments in the field and pinpoint knowledge gaps that exist with a focus on the development of novel fibrotic mouse models for the early diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis and how this knowledge aids in the development of novel anti-fibrotic treatments which opens fresh avenues for a thorough investigation and extended research in the field of endometriosis.
Assessing Africa’s position in the development of AI-enabled ECG devices
Authors: Ameziane Hamza , Zahidi Yassine , El-Moufid Mohamed , Medromi Hicham , Machkour Nadia , Rabbah Nabila
Published: October 2024

Background The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in electrocardiographic (ECG) devices has become a pivotal area of research, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. These technologies are essential for enhancing cardiac diagnosis and monitoring. Methods This study assesses current trends, key contributors, and collaborative networks in the field of AI-enhanced ECG devices. We utilized a comprehensive analysis, using the Biblioshiny library from Bibliometrix for data exploration of data extracted from the Scopus database and VOSViewer for creating and visualizing maps. These tools were played an important role in conducting an in-depth analysis of the relationships and developments within the field. Results The analysis shows a significant increase in publications related to AI-enhanced ECG devices, with a marked surge during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the growing interest and technological advancements, the study exposes a notable disparity in the geographical distribution of research contributions, highlighting substantial under-representation of African researchers. This gap is attributed to infrastructural, financial constraints, and limited collaborative networks within the continent. Conclusion The rapid evolution and increasing importance of AI in ECG devices underscore the need for more inclusive research practices. There is a critical need to integrate and promote contributions from under-represented regions, particularly Africa, to ensure a globally diverse perspective in tackling health challenges. This study calls for enhanced participation and support for African researchers to bridge the existing research gap and foster global health equity.
Targeted Cancer Therapy: The Role of Liposomes in Oncology. A Literature Review
Authors: Rudnicka Katarzyna , Lemieszek Paulina , Krukar Katarzyna , Pustelniak Martyna , Miga-Orczykowska Nadia , Sajkiewicz Ilona , Wójtowicz Justyna , Jasiuk Ilona , Łukaszewska Ewa , Kister Klaudia
Published: October 2024

Liposomal formulations represent a significant advancement in the field of oncology, providing innovative solutions for the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents. These nanoscale carriers, made of phospholipid bilayers, enhance drug stability and allow for targeted delivery to tumor tissues, thereby improving the therapeutic index of anticancer medications. By altering the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of these drugs, liposomes help reduce systemic side effects while increasing the concentration of therapeutic agents at the tumor site. Recent developments in liposomal technology have led to the creation of targeted liposomes, which can bind specifically to cancer cells, enhancing treatment accuracy. This review examines the various applications of liposomes in cancer treatment, discusses important clinical trials, identifies challenges in formulation and delivery, and considers future directions for integrating liposomal therapies into routine oncology practice. As ongoing research progresses, liposomes are poised to play a crucial role in advancing cancer treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes. Additionally, we discuss the challenges associated with their clinical translation and future perspectives in optimizing liposome formulations for personalized cancer therapies.
Język niebinarny jako wyzwanie translatorskie na przykładzie polskiego tłumaczenia powieści Bernardine Evaristo pt. Girl, Woman, Other
Authors: Nowak-Michalska Joanna
Published: October 2024

NON-BINARY LANGUAGE AS A TRANSLATION CHALLENGE. THE CASE OF THE POLISH TRANSLATION OF BERNARDINE EVARISTO’S NOVEL GIRL, WOMAN, OTHER
Translating non-binary language has been one of the major challenges for Polish translators in recent years. At present, various strategies are employed to neutralise the binary gender opposition in Polish. Some of them fit into the existing linguistic system, while others are completely innovative. The solutions range from using gender-neutral expressions (e.g. constructions involving the noun osoba ‘a person’ modified by an adjective or participle or the use of impersonal forms) to coining special forms for non-binary persons (e.g. nouns of neuter gender). The aim of this article is to analyse the non-binary language solutions adopted by Aga Zano in her translation of Bernardine Evaristo’s novel Girl, Woman, Other. The study shows that the translator employs a number of linguistic markers of non-binariness, which, in line with her aim, reflects the linguistic reality of our time. In the case of pronouns and verbs referring to the non-binary character of Morgan, the translator uses the neuter gender. She also creates innovative neutral forms of nouns that describe this person.
Infliximab in the treatment of a giant coronary aneurysm in Behçet’s disease
Authors: Boustani Salma , Ibnyghig Abderrahmane , Wakrim Soukaing , Bouissgr Wassila
Published: October 2024

Background: Behçet’s disease (BD) is a rare, multisystemic inflammatory disorder with a diverse range of manifestations, primarily affecting the mucocutaneous and ocular systems. While vascular involvement is less frequent it can be severe, with coronary aneurysms being particularly rare. Case description: We report a 28-year-old male with BD who developed a giant anterior interventricular artery aneurysm. The patient, initially managed with azathioprine and colchicine, presented with acute chest pain and elevated cardiac markers. Imaging revealed a coronary aneurysm measuring 5.03 cm. Due to the inflammatory nature of the aneurysm surgical intervention was initially deferred, and the patient was treated with corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide. Despite these treatments, recurrent symptoms prompted the initiation of infliximab therapy. Administered at 5 mg/kg at weeks 0, 2 and 6, with subsequent doses every two months, infliximab led to a significant reduction in aneurysm size to 3.73 cm. Conclusion: This case highlights the effectiveness of infliximab in managing giant coronary aneurysms associated with BD, demonstrating its potential as a treatment option for severe vascular complications in BD. The substantial reduction in aneurysm size following infliximab therapy underscores the need for further investigation into its role in treating such rare but serious manifestations of BD.
Sistema de voto eletrônico utilizando a blockchain
Authors: Niwa Henrique , Mendes Celso
Published: October 2024

Este trabalho mostra o estudo e implementação de um sistema de voto eletrônico, utilizando-se de \textit{blockchain}, um banco de dados descentralizado e criptografado. O sistema proposto, além de oferecer ainda mais segurança ao processo de votação, permitiria uma completa auditoria na eleição, tanto do código fonte utilizado quanto da base de dados, cada eleitor poderia verificar o seu próprio voto. O desafio envolvendo computação de alto desempenho foi distribuir, simular o processo eleitoral e apurar a votação na escala de dezenas de milhões de eleitores, assim como o modelo atual em vigência no Brasil, incluindo criptografia nas transações e total transparência na apuração.
Toward Requirements for Embedded Systems
Authors: Ribeiro Quelita , Pereira Tarcísio , Melo Mozart , Castro Jaelson , Alencar Fernanda , Lencastre Maria
Published: October 2024

Context: Embedded System (ES) is a component of a larger system embedded in a product, it is designed to repeatedly perform a specific function, while maintaining its operation under different constraints. For this reason, these systems are highly complex. Therefore, the challenges for effective and efficient development are immense. Many problems are related to mistakes in the requirements engineering phase. Thus, a Requirements Engineering (RE) process is crucial in ES development. Objective: to analyze and understand studies of RE approaches that are used for embedded systems development. Method: We carried out a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) in order to find answers to our questions and better understand the requirements engineering context for ES. Results: We uncovered 92 studies and (1) evidence the benefits to using the studies in requirements engineering activities; (2) we found out the RE phases that are attracting more attention; (3) the main requirements modeling styles used; (4) the types of requirements modelled; (5) we identified 6 embedded systems domain in which requirements engineering is taken into account; (6) the use of tools to support their approaches, and (7) the existing challenges/problems. We also proposed a research agenda.   Conclusions: Hence, in this paper we present a body of knowledge in ER for SE derived from a large-scale SLR. We believe the results will benefit both researchers and practitioners.
Identificando e Analisando Casos de Garantia de Segurança aplicados a Sistemas Robóticos
Authors: Alves Júnior Mozart de Melo , Lencastre Maria , Castro Jaelson , Brito Lucas Florêncio de , Ribeiro Moniky
Published: October 2024

Contexto: A segurança dos sistemas robóticos é de extrema importância. Estes sistemas precisam ser certificados por entidades reguladoras que exijam evidências de sua segurança. Objetivo: Analisar abordagens, conceitos, ferramentas, normas e métodos relacionados à garantia da segurança em robôs. Método: Condução de uma revisão sistemática da literatura (RSL) para identificar e analisar as abordagens aplicadas aos sistemas robóticos com base em Casos de Garantia de Segurança. Resultados: Foram identificados 21 estudos de um conjunto de 857 trabalhos publicados. Conclusão: A análise realizada pode auxiliar os profissionais a compreender melhor a área em trabalhos porvir. Foram relatadas as descobertas mais relevantes e suas implicações.
Variantes do Índice Silhueta para Validação de Agrupamentos
Authors: Vargas Victória , Amorim Eduardo Rodrigues , Brito José André de Moura , Semaan Gustavo Silva
Published: October 2024

O presente artigo traz a proposta de avaliação de quatro variantes do índice de silhueta quanto `a sua capacidade de detectar soluções de boa qualidade para problemas de agrupamento. Neste sentido, foram realizados cinco experimentos computacionais, contemplando 51 instâncias da literatura diversificadas (dados reais e artificiais). Como medidas de dissimilaridade foram utilizadas as distâncias euclidiana e de Manhattan, além de três algoritmos clássicos de agrupamento, a saber: PAM, DBSCAN e Bisecting k-means. De modo adicional, experimentos com a Estatística de Hopkins foram realizados com o intuito de verificar a existência de tendência de agrupamentos nas instâncias reais, em que o número de grupos k não é conhecido a priori. Os resultados obtidos indicam que a variante baseada na mediana constitui-se como boa alternativa para detectar soluções de qualidade.
Generating bicliques of a graph
Authors: Figueiredo Celina , Dias Vânia
Published: October 2024

This is an account of the collaboration and research with Jayme Luiz Szwarcfiter and Celina Miraglia Herrera de Figueiredo during the development of the thesis of Vânia Maria Felix Dias at COPPE, "Geração de Bicliques em Grafos", finished in 2004, and its two subsequent journal papers.
Generating interval and semi-order extensions of partially ordered sets
Authors: Figueiredo Celina , Queiroz Aquiles
Published: October 2024

This is an account of the collaboration and the research conduction by Prof. Jayme Luiz Szwarcfiter, during the development of the thesis of Aquiles Braga de Queiroz at COPPE/UFRJ, "Algoritmos para a Geração de Classes de Extensões de Conjuntos Parcialmente Ordenados", completed in 2005.
When Biclique graphs were born
Authors: Groshaus Marina
Published: October 2024

This paper is a survey of my work about biclique graph and biclique properties developed during my PhD with Jayme Szwarcfiter and some related results.
Chordal graphs through clique trees
Authors: Gutierrez Marisa , Tondato Silvia
Published: October 2024

Here we present a part of the work in collaboration with Jayme Luiz Szwarcfiter and Marisa Gutierrez, during the development of the thesis of Silvia Tondato at Facultad de Ciencias Exactas (UNLP), "Grafos Cordales: árboles cliques y representaciones canónicas'', finished in 2009.
Arboreal Extension of an Order
Authors: Pimenta Adriana , Klein Sulamita
Published: October 2024

This article describes the contribution of Adriana Pimenta, Jayme Szwarcfiter, Michel Habib and Sulamita Klein on arboreal extensions of partial orders, started in 2008. The quantity to be determined is about the minimum number of arboreal jumps of a partial order.
Clustering and Analysis of Tweets Related to Petrobras
Authors: Murato Demetrius Milton , Samways dos Santos Bruno , Palma Lima Rafael Henrique
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to cluster and analyze tweets associated with Petrobras, exploring its meaning and user profiles on social media to understand their impact on financial markets. The research applied a workflow including the data collection from Twitter's API (current X), preprocessing of tweets using Python libraries, word vectorization via Bag-of-Words (BoW) and Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF), Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to reduce matrix dimensionality, and the K-means clustering technique. A total of 840 preprocessed tweets were clustered and analyzed for patterns related to Petrobras. Five clusters were identified in the initial analysis with no dimensionality reduction, showcasing differing characteristics, while the subsequent PCA-based analysis yielded three clusters showing contrasting themes in tweets. The PCA-based analysis showed grouped tweets about the market and economy (cluster 0), while cluster 1 was related to political concerns. Limitations included reliance on publicly available Twitter data, constraints due to the quantity and nature of tweets, and potential biases in sentiment analysis due to informal language and sarcasm. The research underscores the potential of unsupervised machine learning techniques in analyzing sentiments and user profiles related to financial markets. Insights derived from tweet clustering could aid investors in gauging market sentiment.
Otimização da frequência no sistema de transporte público por ônibus considerando incertezas na demanda
Authors: Azevedo Caetano Joyce , Nunes Clímaco Francisco Glaubos , Mattos Ribeiro Glaydston , Bahiense Laura
Published: October 2024

O transporte público segue um plano sensível a mudanças, podendo ser afetado por tráfego, clima, interrupções não planejadas, políticas e flutuações na demanda. Este estudo incorpora incertezas no número de passageiros em um modelo de otimização para determinar a frequência de linhas de ônibus, visando mitigar custos operacionais, ambientais e sociais. Testes computacionais em uma rede de ônibus consideraram três cenários de demanda, probabilidades de ocorrência e aversão ao risco. Os resultados indicam soluções precisas, protegendo o sistema contra sobrecarga de passageiros e reduzindo custos operacionais no pior cenário ao equilibrar as dimensões sustentáveis.
Implementing Sediment Delivery Model-Orodispersible Tablet (SeDeM-ODT) Expert System in Cetirizine Dihydrochloride Orally Disintegrating Mini-Tablets (ODMTs) Formulation
Authors:   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Saokham Phennapha , Trisopon Karnkamol ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Published: October 2024

In recent years, pediatric medicine has shifted towards solid oral dosage forms, moving away from liquid formulations to create tailored platforms for children. Orally disintegrating mini-tablets (ODMTs), with a diameter below 3 mm, dissolve rapidly in the mouth and represent a promising option. This study aimed to develop ODMTs using various co-process excipients, assessing their suitability with the Sediment Delivery Model-Orally Disintegrating Tablet (SeDeM-ODT) expert system. Favorable Index of Good Compressibility and Bucodispersibility (IGCB) values (> 5) were found for F-MELT® and co-process rice starch (CR), utilizing for ODMT formulation. Cetirizine dihydrochloride (CET) was evaluated for direct compression suitability, revealing flowability deficiencies. Therefore, co-process excipient quantities were adjusted based on flowability compensation. CET-ODMTs containing F-MELT® exhibited higher drug loading capacity than CR (5 and 2.5 mg/table, respectively). Uniformity of mass, content uniformity, and friability met acceptance criteria with no significant differences between formulations. F-MELT®-based CET-ODMTs showed slower wettability due to magnesium stearate lubrication. Ultimately, the SeDeM-ODT expert system facilitated the excipient selection and formulation development, resulting in ODMTs meeting requirements with minimal experimentation.