bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multicenter retrospective study of the combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors and chemotherapy regimens with or without liver metastasis for the first-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Ren Jing , Wang Ke , Meng Qianhao , Xu Chang , Liu Changqing , Wang Yusheng , Wang Guangyu
Published: December 2024

Background:

Several studies have indicated that the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) can prolong the survival of patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC). However, it remains unclear whether the presence of liver metastasis leads to systemic immune suppression, resulting in poorer immune therapy outcomes. This study aims to investigate whether liver metastasis affects the efficacy of ICI in first-line treatment for AGC patients.

Methods:

The data of AGC patients undergoing combined immunotherapy and chemotherapy treatment at Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital and the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from January 2018 to January 2023 were collected. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were employed to analyze the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) of the patients.

Results:

A total of 162 patients with AGC who were human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her 2) negative and treated with immunotherapy in the first line were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups, the liver metastasis group (LM group, n = 40) and the group without liver metastasis (NLM group, n = 122) according to the presence of liver metastasis. The results of the present study indicate that there was no statistically significant difference in the median OS, with median OS of 17 and 15 months, respectively ( p = 0.29). Similarly, no significant difference was observed in the median PFS between the two groups ( p = 0.65).

Conclusion:

This study suggests that the presence or absence of liver metastasis does not significantly affect the prognosis of AGC patients receiving first-line treatment with ICI.
Menopause Decoded: What’s Happening and How to Manage It
Authors: Strelow Brittany , O’Laughlin Danielle , Anderson Taryn , Cyriac Jissy , Buzzard Jenny , Klindworth Amber
Published: December 2024

Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life, typically occurring between the ages of 46 and 55 years, characterized by the cessation of menstruation and a decline in ovarian function. This article provides a comprehensive overview of menopause, examining its physiological, psychological, and social dimensions. It explores the hormonal changes, including decreased levels of estrogen and progesterone, and how these changes contribute to common symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood fluctuations. Additionally, it highlights contemporary approaches to management, including lifestyle modifications and hormonal and non-hormonal therapies. By synthesizing current research and clinical insights, this overview aims to enhance understanding and support for women navigating menopause and the healthcare professionals assisting them.
Role of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and T2 Relaxometry as Imaging Biomarker of Early Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Bhari Thippeswamy Pushpa , Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan , Ramachandran Karthik , Easwaran Murugesh , Ramadevi Shalini Sivakumar , Sri Vijay Anand KS , Shetty Ajoy Prasad , Mugesh Kanna Rishi
Published: December 2024

Study Design

Observational comparative study.

Objective

To study the role of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and T2 relaxometry (T2r) as imaging biomarkers for identifying early lumbar disc degeneration.

Methods

We evaluated 236 discs in normal volunteers and 215 discs in low back pain (LBP) patients by MRS and T2r to document the molecular spectra of various metabolites as well as disc hydration and collagen content, respectively. All volunteer discs were Pfirrmann grade 1 (PF1), whereas patients with LBP had PF 1 (n = 156) and PF 2 (n = 59). The study population was compared in three age groups: A (20-30 years), B (30-40 years), and C (40-50 years).

Results

T2r, an indicator of collagen and hydration, was higher in volunteers (121.8 ± 31.1), compared to PF 1 patients (110.68 ± 23.96) and PF 2 patients (90.15 ± 25.81) ( P = 0.001). Proteoglycan assessed by MRS was more stable for volunteers (3.39 ± 1.69) and PF 1 patients (3.6 ± 1.69) but reduced in PF 2 patients (2.86 ± 1.47), showing that structural molecules did not alter within the PF 1. However, lactate and other metabolites showed a difference even within PF1 between volunteers and LBP patients. We were able to identify a unique subset of PF 1 that had a normal value of proteoglycan and T2r but altered metabolite distribution, which may represent early disc degeneration (DD).

Conclusion

MRS and T2r can be used as imaging biomarkers for early DD by identifying altered metabolic activity with an intact matrix.
Hypoperfusion intensity ratio to differentiate between stroke etiologies in patients with a large vessel occlusion
Authors: Maruani Ari , Obadia Michael , Fontaine Louis , Savatovsky Julien , Albucher Jean-François , Calviere Lionel , Raposo Nicolas , Cognard Christophe , Viguier Alain , Albers Gregory W. , Sabben Candice , Sibon Igor , Olivot Jean-Marc , Seners Pierre
Published: December 2024

Background:

Collateral circulation plays a key role in acute ischemic stroke. We sought to determine the association between the arterial collateral status, estimated by the Hypoperfusion Intensity Ratio (HIR) on perfusion MRI, and stroke etiology in anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (LVO).

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed anterior circulation LVO acute stroke patients with a baseline perfusion MRI performed within 24 h from symptom onset. To avoid selection bias, patients were chosen from (1) the prospective registry of one comprehensive stroke center that included both thrombectomy-treated and untreated patients with systematic use of perfusion MRI and (2) one prospective thrombectomy study where perfusion MRI was acquired per protocol, but treatment decisions were made blinded to the results. Stroke etiology was evaluated according to the TOAST classification. HIR, defined as the proportion of time-to-maximum (Tmax) > 6 s with Tmax > 10 s volume, was measured on perfusion imaging. The relationship between stroke etiology (large artery atherosclerosis [LAA]) versus cardioembolism [CE]) and HIR was assessed by bivariate then multivariable binary logistic regression analyses.

Results:

Among the 310 included patients, stroke etiology was CE in 178 (57%) and LAA in 51 (16%). Patients with CE stroke etiology had higher HIR (0.43 vs 0.31, p < 0.001) than those with LAA etiology. Higher HIR, indicating worse collateral circulation, remained independently associated with CE etiology following adjustment for the main confounders (adjusted OR = 1.5 [95%CI 1.24–1.81] per 0.1-point increase, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

CE etiology is associated with worse collateral circulation in LVO-related acute stroke patients.
Impact of Nonmedical Switches From Reference Infliximab to Biosimilars on Disease Control Within a Rheumatology Practice
Authors: Jankowska Marta , Dessureault Krista , MacDougall Julie , Sowers Matthew , Merchand Morgan , Kennedy Amanda G.
Published: December 2024

Background: Infliximab is an anti–tumor necrosis factor agent used to treat rheumatologic disease. Evidence on the safety of switching to biosimilars and the associated risk factors for flares/loss of disease control within rheumatology is limited. Objective: The primary objective is to evaluate nonmedical switches from reference infliximab to biosimilars in rheumatology on risks and level of disease control. Methods: This retrospective analysis of data was conducted on all adult patients at our institution’s rheumatology clinics with a rheumatologic diagnosis who were stable on reference infliximab and switched to the formulary biosimilars infliximab-dyyb or infliximab-abda, during the study period. Patient demographics as well as concomitant rheumatologic medications, markers of disease control, and hospitalization data were collected. Results: Of the 317 patients screened, 48 patients met inclusion criteria. A total of 29 patients (60.4%) were on reference infliximab and 19 patients (39.6%) were switched to biosimilar. Eight patients (42.1%) flared after a switch to biosimilar. Of the biosimilar patients, all patients were on infliximab-dyyb and were mandated to switch by insurance. Two patients who flared after switch to biosimilar (25%) had a delay in treatment due to attempts to receive prior authorization for reference infliximab. Conclusions: In the patients who switched to biosimilar, almost half experienced a flare. Two of these eight patients (25%) had a delay in treatment after the switch, which may be a risk factor for flaring/loss of disease control. Pharmacists should be following patients who switch to biosimilar closely during the transition period, to monitor for signs of flares/loss of disease control.
Empowering informal caregivers and nurses to take a person-centred view: adaptation and clinical utility of the Integrated Palliative Outcome Scale (IPOS-Dem) for use in acute and community care settings
Authors: de Wolf-Linder Susanne , Kramer Iris , Reisinger Margarete , Murtagh Fliss E. M. , Schubert Maria , Ramsenthaler Christina
Published: December 2024

Background

Dementia is a progressive and terminal illness. Symptoms are present for people with dementia across all stages, leading to poor quality of life and considerable carer burden. In acute and community care services, no holistic, person-centred outcome tools are available for nurses and informal caregivers to measure symptoms and needs from the person`s with dementia point of view. We therefore undertook validation (exploring semantic/conceptual equivalence, content validity, and views on clinical utility) for a measure (IPOS-Dem) in the community and acute care setting in Switzerland.

Methods

This was a rigorous, multi-step, cross-sectional, multi-method study conducted with nurses and relatives caring for people with dementia in the community and acute care setting. Multiple components were aligned: 1) forward and backward translation from German to Swiss German to achieve semantic equivalence; 2) focus groups to explore clinical utility and conceptual equivalence; 3) cognitive debriefing to review content validity. An expert review was included at the end of each phase.

Results

Six people from the public and 24 nurses/relatives were included. Semantic equivalence was achieved after making 14 changes to the wording of items. Participants judged the IPOS-Dem (CH) as a clinically useful intervention in the domains of appropriateness, accessibility, practicability, and acceptability for the following reasons: (1) it enables support for informal caregivers, (2) it provides an overview of the priorities of care, thus supporting symptom review, (3) it allows nurses with different qualifications to contribute critical observations, thus fostering communication and teamwork, and (4) it increases an awareness of change in symptoms throughout the disease trajectory. In the cognitive debriefing interviews, setting and respondent-dependent differences in the conceptual understanding of item descriptors were observed for 11 of 31 items.

Conclusion

In this novel work, we demonstrate the newly-translated and culturally-adapted IPOS-Dem (CH) is a relevant and comprehensive measure for persons with mild to severe dementia. It can aid a generalist workforce across settings to assess palliative care-relevant symptoms and concerns.
Machine learning for the prediction of mortality in patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lv Xiangui , Liu Daiqiang , Chen Xinwei , Chen Lvlin , Wang Xiaohui , Xu Xiaomei , Chen Lin , Huang Chao
Published: December 2024

Background

Predicting mortality in sepsis-related acute kidney injury facilitates early data-driven treatment decisions. Machine learning is predicting mortality in S-AKI in a growing number of studies. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the predictive value of machine learning for mortality in patients with septic acute kidney injury.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase databases were searched up to 20 July 2024 This was supplemented by a manual search of study references and review articles. Data were analysed using STATA 14.0 software. The risk of bias in the prediction model was assessed using the Predictive Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool.

Results

A total of 8 studies were included, with a total of 53 predictive models and 17 machine learning algorithms used. Meta-analysis using a random effects model showed that the overall C index in the training set was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.78–0.84), sensitivity was 0.39 (0.32–0.47), and specificity was 0.92 (95% CI: 0.89–0.95). The overall C-index in the validation set was 0.73 (95% CI: 0.71–0.74), sensitivity was 0.54 (95% CI: 0.48–0.60) and specificity was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.88–0.91). The results showed that the machine learning algorithms had a good performance in predicting sepsis-related acute kidney injury death prediction.

Conclusion

Machine learning has been shown to be an effective tool for predicting sepsis-associated acute kidney injury deaths, which has important implications for enhancing risk assessment and clinical decision-making to improve sepsis patient care. It is also eagerly anticipated that future research efforts will incorporate larger sample sizes and multi-centre studies to more intensively examine the external validation of these models in different patient populations, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of sepsis-associated acute kidney injury in terms of accurate diagnostic efficacy across a diverse range of model and predictor types.

Trial registration

This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024569420).
Evaluation of leukocyte-platelet rich fibrin as an antibiotic slow-release biological device in the treatment of moderate periodontitis: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Omar Yasmeen K. , Rashidy Mohy A. El , Ahmed Ghada B. , Aboulela Aliaa G.
Published: December 2024

Background

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by the accumulation of biofilm. Antimicrobials have been used as adjuncts to non-surgical periodontal therapy. However, systemic antibiotics often require large dosages to achieve suitable concentrations at the disease site. Leukocyte platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) is a promising bio-material, with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing enhancement effects. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of L-PRF as a locally sustained released device for metronidazole antimicrobial.

Methods

Twenty-four patients with eighty periodontal pockets had moderate periodontitis with attachment loss of 3–4 mm, and probing depth ≤ 5, which was equally divided into two groups: Group (I) underwent scaling and root planing with intra-pocket application of L-PRF loaded with Metronidazole, while Group (II) was treated by scaling and root planing with intra-pocket application of L-PRF alone. Microbiological measurements were taken at baseline and after one month to analyze the relative count of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) using real time PCR. Clinical parameters were measured at baseline and after 1, 3, and 6 months. These parameters included probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), plaque index (PI), modified gingival index (MGI), and bleeding index (BI).

Results

Microbiological and clinical findings revealed that both treatment methods resulted in a reduction in P. gingivalis counts, in addition to improvements in the clinical parameters: PD reduction, CAL gain, PI reduction, BI decrease and MGI reduction compared to baseline. However, L-PRF-metronidazole group showed superior results in the studied parameters over the study period. Nonetheless, there was no statistically significant improvement. (p < .001).

Conclusion

The intra-pocket application of both L-PRF loaded with Metronidazole and L-PRF alone contributed to the successful treatment of moderate periodontitis.

Trial registration

NCT06153706 (http://www.clinical-trials.gov/); 1/12/2023, retrospective registration.
Nursing students and role modeled behavior while caring for LGBTQ + people: a cross-sectional, descriptive study
Authors: Roy Emily E. , Clark Kristen D.
Published: December 2024

Background

While efforts to improve the educational preparedness of nurses to care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ +) people have increased, the influence of role-modeled behaviors by healthcare professionals working with nursing students and recent graduates is not well understood. The purpose of this study is to describe the role-modeled behaviors of healthcare professionals observed by nursing students and recent graduates caring for LGBTQ + patients in clinical settings.

Methods

A cross-sectional, online survey was conducted. Recruitment of nursing students who had completed one or more clinical rotations or were recent graduates (≤ 2 years) was performed through university emails and social media. Items included measurement of stigmatizing attitudes, observed stigmatizing behaviors, and ability to provide inclusive/affirming care for LGBTQ + patients. Open-text items prompted participants to describe observed behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Wilcoxon signed rank sum tests to evaluate differences between LGB (lesbian, gay, bisexual) and T + (transgender and gender diverse) subscales. Open-text responses were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify relevant themes.

Results

Participants (N = 73) had a low level of stigmatizing attitudes toward LGBTQ + people (M = 1.8, SD = 0.4), although higher stigmatizing attitudes toward T + people were reported (M = 3.0, SD = 0.2; Z = -7.254, p < .001). Half of the participants reported that they observed LGBTQ + stigmatizing behaviors role-modeled by two + healthcare professional roles; approximately one-third of participants personally engaged in one + LGBTQ + stigmatizing behaviors, most commonly toward T + people. Themes from participants’ examples of observed stigmatizing behaviors included: cis-heteronormative bias, non-affirmation of chosen name/pronouns, outing patients, and rejected competency.

Conclusions

The majority of participants described observing stigmatizing behaviors toward LGBTQ + people in clinical settings. Poorer attitudes and a higher frequency of stigmatizing behaviors observed towards T + people point to deficits in healthcare provided to T + people in particular. Efforts to address LGBTQ + stigma in healthcare should be expanded to include clinical settings to address role-modeled behaviors and socialization of nurses.
Ambivalent and heavy burdened wanderers on a road less travelled: a meta-ethnography on end-of-life care experiences among family caregivers in rural areas
Authors: Breivik Elisabet , Ervik Bente , Kitzmüller Gabriele
Published: December 2024

Background

As the population ages, more people will be diagnosed with cancer, and they will live longer due to receiving better treatment and optimized palliative care. Family members will be expected to take on more responsibilities related to providing palliative care at home. Several countries have expressed their vision of making home death an option, but such a vision can be more challenging in rural areas. There is a lack of synthesized research providing an in-depth understanding of rural family caregiving for people with cancer at the end of life. Thus, the purpose of this study was to synthesize and reinterpret the findings from qualitative research on rural family caregivers of adult cancer patients at the end of life.

Methods

We conducted a meta-ethnography following Noblit and Hare’s approach. A systematic literature search of four databases and extensive manual searches were completed in April 2022. The final sample included twelve studies from six different countries published in 2011–2022.

Results

Based on the translation and synthesis of the included studies, four themes were developed (1) providing family care at the end of life in rural areas—a challenging endeavour; (2) the heavy responsibility of rural caregiving—a lonesome experience; (3) working on and behind the scenes; and (4) the strong and weak spots of community connectedness in rural areas. An overarching metaphor, namely, “ambivalent and heavy burdened wanderers on a road less travelled”, provides a deeper understanding of the meaning of rural family caregiving at the end of life.

Conclusions

This study provides valuable insights into end-of-life cancer care for rural families on four continents. It is crucial to prepare family caregivers for the demanding role of palliative caregiving in rural areas. To address the long distances and poor access related to specialized health care services, outpatient palliative teams tailored to the families’ individual needs should be provided. In addition, more telehealth services, palliative units, or beds in local nursing facilities may reduce the number of exhausting trips that need to be made by caregivers and patients. Healthcare workers in rural areas need further education in palliative care.

Trial registration

The study was registered in PROSPERO.
Relational anonymity in reducing the harms of illicit drug use: accounts of users of dark web- and street-based services in Finland
Authors: Ranta Johanna , Kaskela Teemu , Nurmi Juha , Ruokolainen Teemu , Shorter Gillian W.
Published: December 2024

Background

Protecting individual anonymity is a common practice in harm reduction (HR), as it can mitigate the fears that may prevent people from accessing services. Protecting anonymity usually means applying for services with a pseudonym. However, anonymity protection practices have diversified in current HR environments, for example, on the streets or in the Tor network, which relies on technology to guarantee exceptionally strong anonymity. Despite its importance, the individual’s need for anonymity when seeking help to reduce drug-related harm has been underexplored.

Methods

The research contexts included four street- and dark web-based HR services in Finland. The data consisted of service user interviews and naturally occurring conversations in the Tor network. We focused on service users’ accounts of their need for anonymity and applied the concept of relational anonymity, acknowledging that wider contextual relations intertwine with situational needs for anonymity. We asked: What kinds of needs for anonymity do service users express when discussing seeking help to reduce drug-related harm? How do service users account for their need for anonymity when seeking such help? To which kinds of contextual relations are these accounts attached?

Results

We identified connections between the accounts of the need for anonymity and various contextual relations: (1) excusing the need for anonymity by referring to societal relations: blaming Finnish society for stigmatising attitudes and exclusionary practices; (2) excusing the need for anonymity by referring to service system relations: blaming the service system for the risk of negative consequences from recording the use of illicit drugs; (3) justifying and excusing the need for anonymity by referring to personal relations: appealing to personal situation, feelings and experiences.

Conclusions

The need for anonymity reflects problematic societal relations, in which the stigma towards drug use is strong. The service users’ accounts were motivated by rational actions to avoid possible sanctions and the perceived abuse of power in Finnish society and services, which the service users deemed to have various negative consequences in their lives. Societies should promote cultural atmospheres and information sharing practices where anonymity is not needed, but services that protect anonymity are crucial in the current societal conditions.
Proportional myoelectric control of a virtual bionic arm in participants with hemiparesis, muscle spasticity, and impaired range of motion
Authors: Thomson Caleb J. , Mino Fredi R. , Lopez Danielle R. , Maitre Patrick P. , Edgley Steven R. , George Jacob A.
Published: December 2024

Background

This research aims to improve the control of assistive devices for individuals with hemiparesis after stroke by providing intuitive and proportional motor control. Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the United States, with 80% of stroke-related disability coming in the form of hemiparesis, presented as weakness or paresis on half of the body. Current assistive exoskeletonscontrolled via electromyography do not allow for fine force regulation. Current control strategies provide only binary, all-or-nothing control based on a linear threshold of muscle activity.

Methods

In this study, we demonstrate the ability of participants with hemiparesis to finely regulate their muscle activity to proportionally control the position of a virtual bionic arm. Ten stroke survivors and ten healthy, aged-matched controls completed a target-touching task with the virtual bionic arm. We compared the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the recorded electromyography (EMG) signals used to train the control algorithms and the task performance using root mean square error, percent time in target, and maximum hold time within the target window. Additionally, we looked at the correlation between EMG SNR, task performance, and clinical spasticity scores.

Results

All stroke survivors were able to achieve proportional EMG control despite limited or no physical movement (i.e., modified Ashworth scale of 3). EMG SNR was significantly lower for the paretic arm than the contralateral nonparetic arm and healthy control arms, but proportional EMG control was similar across conditions for hand grasp. In contrast, proportional EMG control for hand extension was significantly worse for paretic arms than healthy control arms. The participants’ age, time since their stroke, clinical spasticity rate, and history of botulinum toxin injections had no impact on proportional EMG control.

Conclusions

It is possible to provide proportional EMG control of assistive devices from a stroke survivor’s paretic arm. Importantly, information regulating fine force output is still present in muscle activity, even in extreme cases of spasticity where there is no visible movement. Future work should incorporate proportional EMG control into upper-limb exoskeletons to enhance the dexterity of stroke survivors.
Exploring the effects of probiotics on olanzapine-induced metabolic syndrome through the gut microbiota
Authors: Mushraf Syed , Chawla Kiran , Fayaz Shaik Mohammed Abdul , Mathew Aranjani Jesil , Reddy Gayam Prasanna Kumar , Kappettu Gadahad Mohandas Rao , Shenoy Padmaja A. , Devi Vasudha , Adiga Shalini , Nayak Veena
Published: December 2024

Background

Maintaining gut microbial homeostasis is crucial for human health, as imbalances in the gut microbiota (GM) can lead to various diseases, including metabolic syndrome (MS), exacerbated by the use of antipsychotic medications such as olanzapine (OLZ). Understanding the role of the GM in OLZ-induced MS could lead to new therapeutic strategies. This study used metagenomic analysis to explore the impact of OLZ on the GM composition and examined how probiotics can mitigate its adverse effects in a rat model. Changes in weight, blood pressure, and lipid levels, which are key parameters defining MS, were assessed. Additionally, this study investigated serotonin, dopamine, and histopathological changes to explore their possible link with the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA).

Results

OLZ had an antagonistic effect on serotonin and dopamine receptors, and it was consistently found to alter the composition of the GM, with an increase in the relative abundance (RA) of the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes phyla ratio and TM7 genera, indicating that the anticommonsal action of OLZ affects appetite and energy expenditure, contributing to obesity, dyslipidemia and increased blood pressure, which are core components of MS. Hepatic steatosis and intestinal damage in OLZ-treated rat tissues further indicate its role in MS. Conversely, the administration of probiotics, either alone or in combination with OLZ, was found to mitigate these OLZ-induced symptoms of MS by altering the GM composition. These alterations included increases in the abundances of the taxa Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Prevotella, Blautia, Bacteroides, Bacteroidales, and Ruminococcaceae and a decrease in Firmicute abundance. These changes helped maintain gut barrier integrity and modulated neurotransmitter levels, suggesting that probiotics can counteract the adverse metabolic effects of OLZ by restoring the GM balance. Moreover, this study highlights the modulation of the MGBA by OLZ as a potential mechanism through which probiotics modulate serotonin and dopamine levels, influencing metabolic health.

Conclusion

These findings emphasise the significant impact of OLZ on the GM and its contribution to MS. These findings suggest that interventions targeting the GM, such as probiotics, could mitigate the metabolic side effects of OLZ. Future research should focus on developing integrative treatment approaches that consider the health of the gut microbiome in managing antipsychotic-induced adverse effects.
A review of biodegradation and formation of biodegradable microplastics in soil and freshwater environments
Authors: Payanthoth Nehala Sona , Mut Nik Nurhidayu Nik , Samanta Palas , Li Guanlin , Jung Jinho
Published: December 2024

Plastic pollution is of critical environmental concern, thus biodegradable plastics (BPs) have emerged as a potential solution to limit plastic waste accumulation. However, the fate of BPs in the environment, particularly their degradation and the subsequent generation of biodegradable microplastic (BMP) particles, remains poorly understood. This review aims to provide comprehensive insights into the biodegradation process of BPs and their impacts on soil and freshwater environments. Microorganisms play a pivotal role in this process by dismantling polymer chains into smaller particles. Factors influencing biodegradation rates include polymer composition, environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, ultraviolet radiation (UV), and pH), and the presence of chemical additives. However, incomplete degradation can result in BMPs, potentially perpetuating their presence in the environment and posing risks to ecosystems and organisms. This review consolidates understanding the mechanisms governing biodegradation and BMP formation, which is imperative for evaluating their environmental consequences and devising effective strategies for managing plastic waste.
Atypical femur fracture in two patients treated with denosumab: case reports of a patient undergoing maintenance hemodialysis and a kidney transplant recipient, with a literature review of the denosumab used to treat these patients
Authors: Miyazaki Ryoichi , Miyagi Kyoko , Hirayama Sun , Miyanaga Tatsuto
Published: December 2024

Background

Osteoporosis is a serious complication for both patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) and kidney transplant (KTx) recipients. Denosumab (Dmab) is a highly efficacious drug used to treat osteoporosis. However, like bisphosphonates, Dmab has the rare complication of atypical femur fracture (AFF). Here, we report two cases of AFF in a patient on MHD and a KTx recipient during treatment with Dmab.

Case presentation

Case 1 was a 78-year-old female patient undergoing MHD diagnosed with an AFF in April 2023. In 2018, she started hemodialysis necessitated by glomerulonephritis caused by parvovirus B19. She had been receiving intravenous alendronate for osteoporosis since 2005, then changed to subcutaneous Dmab in 2020. She underwent an intramedullary nail osteosynthesis for her AFF and is doing well on teriparatide. Case 2 was a 67-year-old female KTx recipient diagnosed with an AFF in June 2023. She had been on oral minodronate since 2014 but was switched to subcutaneous Dmab in 2020 owing to repeated fractures. She is doing well on romosozumab after intramedullary nail osteosynthesis.

Conclusions

We report two cases of AFF treated with Dmab. Case 1 was a patient undergoing MHD and case 2 was a KTx recipient. AFFs are relatively rare and, to our knowledge, have not been reported in patients undergoing MHD or KTx recipients. Dmab-associated AFFs are likely to increase in the future as the population ages, and adequate attention should be paid to patients undergoing MHD and KTx recipients.
Mobile systems for assessing air quality: available solutions and application examples
Authors: Zboralski Dominik , Kunz Mieczysław
Published: December 2024

Air quality is of interest to many institutions and individuals, including, above all, the informed residents of monitored areas. The state of the air and its pollution level are very important to the health, life and functioning of any community living in urban areas. A poor state of the environment has inevitable health consequences; in the case of the air, these are mainly respiratory or cardiovascular diseases. This element intensifies during the heating season when compounds from the combustion of banned substances and materials are emitted into the atmosphere. The quality of the lowest layer of the atmosphere can be studied using various recording systems and detectors. These include continuous monitoring of the state of the air by spatially dispersed stationary measuring stations operating in the State Environmental Monitoring system. Their location is usually associated with significant traffic intensity in their immediate vicinity rather than high local residential density. The measurement network is also co-created and densified by alternative point air-quality-monitoring systems proposed by private companies or community organizations (e.g., Airly, Sensor.Community, LoVo). A precious source of reliable local air quality data is mobile recording systems, which use unmanned aircraft or vehicles – objects in motion – and carry out periodic inspections, control missions or measurements. Examples of such solutions in the Polish market are Sniffer4D, Nosacz II and AirDrone. This paper aims to analyze and compare the available mobile measurement systems in terms of technical and usability for air quality research, along with a description of example areas where they are being used and implemented in practice. In addition, selected results of tests carried out with the Sniffer4D system at three testing grounds in Toruń are presented as part of a measurement campaign using an unmanned aerial vehicle and a passenger car.
Geomorphological control on the scarce-tropical frost events in the Dieng Volcanic Complex, Indonesia
Authors: Ashari Arif , Ervin Muhamad , Wardoyo Muhammad Asrori Indra
Published: December 2024

In recent decades, frosts have been reported in several volcanic landscapes in the tropical Indonesian archipelago. However, this unique and rare phenomenon is still poorly understood and not covered in the literature. In this paper, we evaluate the influence of various geomorphological aspects on frost formation in the Dieng Volcanic Complex (DVC). There are several significant findings in this study. First, frost occurs in the dry season in various basins with land cover of natural shrubs and grasses. Second, several basin structures exist in the DVC, but not all allow frost formation. Frost formation results from a combination of factors that include air temperature with morphology and land cover type. Lastly, not all aspects of geomorphology affect the appearance of frost; they are limited to morphology/structure and land cover material. In summary, this paper provides new insight into the influence that the geomorphological conditions of volcanic complexes have on climatic control over the formation of frost.
Social inequality and climate change. Student awareness: teachers-to-be and engineers-to-be on the links between social inequality and climate change on the basis of empirical research
Authors: Ocetkiewicz Iwona , Mróz Anna , Tomaszewska Barbara , Sowiżdżał Anna
Published: December 2024

The paper presents the results of research into the opinions of university students on the causes and consequences of climate change in the context of social inequalities. The main problem of the research was formulated in the following way: How do students (future teachers and future engineers) view the links between climate change and social inequalities? The main aim was to see how students’ opinions differed from one another. The authors wanted to find out how different characteristics affect perceptions of the causal relationship between the climate crisis and social inequalities. The majority of students at both universities chose indirect answers, showing that they are not fully convinced of the strong links between the climate crisis and social inequalities. This shows a need for intensive, multi-faceted measures to help students to recognise the relationships between these two aspects.
Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction as the same symptom of various basis - review of literature
Authors: Grzegorczyk Aleksandra , Pachla Magdalena , Dardzińska Nicol
Published: December 2024

The aim of this work is to discuss the known causes of chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction. Determining the etiology of the symptoms reported by the patient, such as: abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, constipation, heartburn or regurgitation, the cause of which cannot be clearly identified in imaging tests as mechanical intestinal obstruction, is necessary to implement proper therapy. We distinguished, among others: infections, gene mutations, cancer and paraneoplastic syndromes and autoimmune diseases. This broad range of causes shows the complexity of this disease. 
Among pathogens, the most common cause are viruses, especially herpesviruses, what is more bacterial infections and gut dysbiosis must be taken under consideration. We found that specific pathway gene mutations can cause obturation symptoms which need extended diagnostic tests. Paraneoplastic syndromes should be examined as a possible etiological factor while looking for the cause of this disease and anticancer treatment can be either a solution for the chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction symptoms or a cause of them. Lastly we discussed autoimmune diseases as a part of the inflammation problem of the bowel.
The goal is to emphasize how important it is to draw attention to the need of looking at the patient and his ailments integrally, which will enable an accurate diagnosis to be made and the appropriate treatment to be effectively selected. We found it very important to think unconventionally with every patient we deal with and what can be done thanks to a great amount of knowledge provided by other doctors.
The Detrimental Effects of Sedentary Lifestyle on Human Health
Authors: Grzelak Alicja
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Sedentary lifestyles have become increasingly prevalent in modern societies, posing significant threats to human health. Technological advancements and the shift towards desk-based occupations have contributed to a substantial decline in physical activity, leading to a rise in various diseases. The detrimental effects of a sedentary lifestyle are far-reaching, impacting physical, mental, and cognitive aspects of well-being.
Purpose of work: This review article aims to provide an examination of the ramifications of a sedentary lifestyle, exploring its multifaceted impact on the different domains of well-being.
State of knowledge: Research examining the consequences of sedentary behavior has expanded significantly in recent years. Studies have consistently demonstrated the negative impact of sedentary lifestyles on various health outcomes, including increased risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, musculoskeletal problems, and cognitive impairment [1][2].
Material and methods: The review is based on an in-depth analysis of current scientific literature, including recent publications in leading medical journals and relevant research studies. To identify relevant scientific publications and research studies, the review utilized comprehensive searches on well-known academic databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar.
Summary: A sedentary lifestyle poses a significant threat to human health, contributing to a range of physical, mental, and cognitive ailments. Given the widespread prevalence of sedentary behaviors, particularly in modern societies, it is imperative to develop and implement effective strategies that encourage regular physical activity and reduce prolonged periods of inactivity. The review explores the key aspects of the detrimental effects of sedentary lifestyles, including their impact on cardiovascular health, metabolic processes, musculoskeletal well-being, and cognitive function.
Impact of Physical Exercise on Menopause Symptoms and Health-related quality of life - a literature review
Authors: Wąsowicz Agnieszka , Sztyler-Krąkowska Marcelina , Siwiec Jan , Smyl Natalia , Szatkowska Julia , Śpiołek Olga , Teofilak Mateusz , Słowikowska Aleksandra , Kędziora Franciszek , Fabian Dariusz
Published: December 2024

Menopause, which usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 56, is a natural biological condition that signifies the end of a woman's menstrual cycles. It is formally diagnosed after twelve months without a menstrual period, which indicates the end of ovarian function. Hormone fluctuations, especially a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels can lead to a range of emotional and physical issues. The most commonly reported symptoms include vasomotor symptoms and psychological alterations which can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Many seek ways to manage or relieve them.On 15/11/2024, two databases (PubMed and GoogleScholar) were searched using the keywords “menopause” or “menopausal symptoms” and either “physical activity” or “exercise” or “sport”. Articles were included if they were published in English between 2020 and 2024, focused on the impact of physical exercise on menopause symptoms and quality of life. Only original research papers were considered. Studies focusing on patients with chronic diseases or oncological history were excluded as well as papers concerning only osteoporosis or urinary dysfunction.21 studies were included in the review, comprising a total of 3,506 participants. Our review's main conclusions are as follows: Regular physical activity can help reduce menopausal symptoms and enhance quality of life. Resistance Exercise helps with physical and vasomotor symptoms, but it has little effect on cardiovascular health or long-term symptom reduction. Yoga is highly effective in reducing vasomotor, psychosocial, and physical symptoms, with long-term antioxidant benefits but limited effects on hormonal levels (FSH, DHEA-S). Multicomponent Exercise (e.g., team handball, resistance training) offers broad benefits for physical fitness, psychosocial well-being and vasomotor symptoms. Additionally, progressive muscle relaxation improves sleep quality and fatigue.
Conjunctival melanoma in children: a systematic review
Authors: Partyka Maria , Plewniok Julia , Janeczek Maksymilian , Kantor Karolina Kinga , Szymańska Wiktoria Maria , Wójcik Julia , Pamuła Kacper Wojciech , Cholewa Marcin , Kuca Maciej , Jaglarz Karolina
Published: December 2024

Introduction and Objective: Conjunctival melanoma (CM) is rare, particularly in children. It’s characterized by high aggressiveness and a tendency to metastasize. Due to the limited number of published case reports and studies in the pediatric population, it’s difficult to standardize diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The aim of this paper is to collect and systematize the available information on cases of conjunctival melanoma in children.
Materials and Methods: Two databases were used for the review: PubMed and Scopus. Additionally, references were manually searched. After removing duplicates, 283 articles were obtained, of which 20 were included in the review. The analysis included articles in English that contained detailed information on the course of CM in children.
Abbreviated Description of the State of Knowledge: Conjunctival melanoma accounts for 2-5% of all eye tumors. Clinically, it presents as a pigmented lesion with heterogeneous shape and structure. Its development may be associated with UV radiation and genetic mutations. In diagnostic process, an ophthalmological examination is crucial, along with the search for potential metastases and recurrences. Treatment primarily involves surgical removal, with the addition of cryotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy if necessary.
Summary: Despite rare occurrence of CM, due to its high aggressiveness, every conjunctival lesion should be thoroughly examined with oncological vigilance. The amount of data on this subject is limited, so further research is needed to help develop prognosis and management strategies. A greater number of studies in the future may also contribute to the development of new therapeutic options, thereby improving outcomes.
After Radical Prostatectomy: Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosis and Its Treatment - A Literature Review
Authors: Pakos Kinga , Górczyński Krzysztof , Majewski Kornel , Majewska Aleksandra , Czujkowska Maria , Kowalewski Jan , Pyc Grzegorz , Durmała Kamila , Bałoniak Zuzanna , Mączka Jakub
Published: December 2024

Introduction and purpose of work: 
In the last 10 years, prostate cancer has become the most common cancer in the Polish population of men with the high growth dynamics. Despite the fact that we are getting better with mortality and new surgery techniques, complications in the form of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunctions after radical prostatectomy are a common problem. This study deals with the second problem, often underestimated by the society, but equally important in maintaining high -quality life. Our goal is to present aethiology, diagnostics and treating patients with erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy due to prostate cancer. It can help doctors who usually do not have contact with such patients, understand the problem and manage effective treatment in their daily practice.
Method: 
We searched for studies and articles via PubMed using the keywords prostate cancer, radical prostatectomy, erectile dysfunction. From screened documents identified from literature search, 52 articles were included in our review.
Summary: 
Erection dysfunction is a complex problem, in which the basis is the interaction of the vascular and nervous systems. To diagnose the patient, you need to conduct a thorough interview, generally about medical history and chronic diseases, but also about sex life. After the diagnosis, there are many treatment  options to choose from, pharmacological and non-pharmacological. An important aspect of treatment that you cannot forget is psychological support which should start from the moment of diagnosis of prostate cancer. Each method has pros and cons, but effective cooperation with the patient will give the desired results.