bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What has antifibrotic therapy changed for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Kuzubova N. A. , Titova O. N. , Skliarova D. B. , Volchkov V. A.
Published: June 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive fibrotic interstitial lung disease of unknown cause. IPF is characterized by excessive production and deposition of extracellular matrix components, which lead to irreversible violations of the architectonics of lung tissue and loss of function. Without treatment, the average survival rate of patients after diagnosis does not exceed 3–5 years. However, published observations report improved survival over the past decade, due to the advent of antifibrotic drugs and earlier diagnosis. The benefits of antifibrotic therapy include a slower rate of reduction in forced lung capacity (FVC) and a reduction in mortality. Pirfenidone and nantedanib are the only currently approved antifibrotic drugs for the treatment of IPF. Several generic drugs with the INN pirfenidone are registered on the Russian market, including the drug PIRFASPEC® (267 mg capsules). Their efficacy and safety have been demonstrated both in randomized clinical trials and in real clinical practice studies. IPF patient registries, which have been maintained in many countries since 2010, provide additional information regarding the progression of the disease, the effectiveness of therapy, and the frequency of adverse events. Although they have a different mechanism of action and safety profile, their effectiveness in slowing the decline of FVC and reducing the risk of mortality over time is similar. However, IPF is still characterized by progressive shortness of breath and poor prognosis, as treatment can only delay the progression of IPF and cannot stop or reverse the damage. Although clinical trials of new drugs for the treatment of IPF are currently underway, no other drugs have yet been approved in the Russian Federation.
The role of anti-IgE therapy in achieving remission of bronchial asthma
Authors: Trushenko N. V. , Lavginova B. B. , Stener V. A. , Avdeev S. N.
Published: June 2024

Bronchial asthma is one of the most common respiratory diseases, and follows a severe clinical course in 10% of patients. 70–80% of patients with severe asthma have signs of type 2 (T2) inflammation, which is clinically defined as an increase in blood and airways eosinophil counts. The emergence of genetically engineered biological drugs has made it possible to review the purpose of asthma therapy, that is, achieving remission instead of disease control, which includes managing the symptoms, absence of exacerbations, stabilization of functional parameters and normalization of biomarkers in the absence of therapy with systemic glucocorticoids. Clinical studies have shown that therapy with genetically engineered biological drugs can reduce the frequency of asthma exacerbations, decrease the need for maintenance therapy with systemic glucocorticoids, relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, which results in achieving a disease remission in 19.6–31.6% of patients. Predictors of suboptimal response to biological therapy were a high body mass index, admission to the intensive care unit and a history of severe asthma exacerbations, as well as initially more severe clinical manifestations of the disease. The most pronounced effect of omalizumab therapy was observed in patients with atopic severe asthma showing symptoms and exacerbations that are clinically associated with allergic sensitization confirmed by positive results of skin prick testing and (or) identification of serological allergen-specific IgE, elevated levels of T2 biomarkers. This publication presents the latest data on asthma remission: the concept, basic criteria, as well as the role of genetically engineered biological drugs in achieving a remission.
Clinical and allergological characteristics of patients with severe bronchial asthma in the regional registry and phenotyping principles for the targeted therapy choice
Authors: Naumova V. V. , Beltyukov E. K. , Kovtun O. P. , Smolenskaya O. G. , Bykova G. A. , Klyachina E. S.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Severe asthma targeted therapy effectiveness depends on precise targeting of the selected drug to the key link in pathogenesis. Therefore, severe asthma phenotyping in real clinical practice is relevant.

Aim. To determine main clinical and allergological characteristics of patients with severe asthma and to establish important phenotyping signs determined choice of a targeted drug for severe asthma treatment.

Materials and methods. The prospective and retrospective study involved patients (n = 198) of the Sverdlovsk region registry receiving targeted therapy of severe asthma. Considering clinical and allergological picture, allergic, non-allergic eosinophilic and mixed severe asthma phenotypes were identified. Clinical and laboratory characteristics of phenotypes were described. A phenotyping algorithm was developed.

Results. In the register of patients (n = 198) with severe asthma, non-allergic eosinophilic asthma was 46.5%, allergic – 34.8%, mixed – 18.7%. Significant signs for phenotyping were identified: age of asthma onset, proven allergy, Phadiatop ImmunoCAP level and blood eosinophils on baseline, concomitant allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and hyper-sensitivity to NSAIDs. The main signs of allergic severe asthma determined: early onset, proven allergy and a positive result of Phadiatop ImmunoCAP (the probability of allergic phenotype increases with Phadiatop ≥ 1.53 PAU/l). Signs of non-allergic eosinophilic asthma were eosinophilia ≥ 150 cells/µl, absence of allergy, concomitant chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and hypersensitivity to NSAIDs, late onset (after 30 years). Signs were identified for mixed asthma: presence of proven allergy or latent sensitization in combination with high level of Phadiatop ImmunoCAP, late onset, eosinophilia ≥ 300 cells/µl, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, hypersensitivity NSAIDs.

Conclusions. The algorithm for severe asthma phenotyping based on the isolation of eosinophilia of allergic and non-allergic origin is proposed. Severe asthma phenotyping, which can be carried out in real clinical practice, should facilitate the selection of an initial targeted drug.
Lactitol properties in the treatment of patients with lifestyle-related diseases
Authors: Maevskaya M. V. , Okovityi S. V.
Published: June 2024

Russia and most countries of the world are currently facing pressures on their health services because of the growing number of diseases associated with unhealthy lifestyles: type 2 diabetes, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, etc. Lifestyle modification is the first prerequisite in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and other diseases associated with unhealthy lifestyle. The use of lactitol provides the opportunity to make this process more effective, as it is able to increase the production of butyrate, reduce the damage to the intestine barrier structure, and interact with sweet-taste receptors. Lactitol has a low glycaemic index, it is not absorbed in the intestine and is fermented like dietary fibres. The results of the studies showed that the metabolic response to this drug corresponds to a lower increase in plasma glucose, insulin and C-peptide levels compared to the use of glucose in healthy, non-obese men. It has been shown through various experiments in animals and in humans that lactitol also reduces the plasma triglyceride levels, probably due to reduced triglyceride absorption as a result of accelerated transit of intestinal contents. An important property of the drug is its ability to increase the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and PYY levels, which is accompanied by delayed gastric emptying and reduced hunger, which is essential in the treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. A 120-day randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of lactitol in 139 patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Twice-daily administration of lactitol 6 g in addition to lifestyle modification events has been shown to increase their efficacy expressed as a significant decrease in ALT levels and an increase in the AST/ALT ratio compared to control subjects. Lactitol can be considered as a metabolic corrector and used in the treatment of diseases associated with an unhealthy lifestyle.
Clinical experience of using Polysorb in complex pathogenetic therapy of chronic hepatitis C with severe liver fibrosis
Authors: Konstantinov D. Yu. , Popova L. L. , Vasilev S. Yu. , Popilov M. A.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Violation of metabolic processes in the gastrointestinal tract in patients with chronic hepatitis C (HCV) leads to the accumulation of toxic metabolic products in the intestine, negatively affecting both the balance of the microbiota and the functional state of hepatocytes. The sorption of toxins released by opportunistic anaerobic bacteria contributes to the restoration of the population of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, which has a beneficial effect on the functional state of the liver.

Aim. To evaluate the clinical and laboratory efficacy and safety of Polysorb as part of complex pathogenetic therapy in patients with HCV with severe liver fibrosis.

Materials and methods. The study included 62 patients with HCV in the stage of severe liver fibrosis (F3 according to METAVIR) of both sexes aged 18 to 65 years who were not receiving antiviral therapy. In the study group, pathogenetic therapy was supplemented with Polysorb. Clinical and laboratory parameters were evaluated before and after the course of treatment. The study of the intestinal microbiota was carried out by determining the concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFA) in the intestinal contents: acetic, propionic, butyric, the total content of isoC4 + isoC5 + isoC6 and the value of the anaerobic index by gas-liquid chromatography (chromatograph “Tsvet 100”, Russia).

Results and discussion. Complex pathogenetic therapy of patients with HCV (F3), including the enterosorbent Polysorb, increases the effectiveness of treatment for clinical syndromes: right hypochondrium by 35.8%, asthenovegetative – by 13.6%, dyspeptic – from 8 to 22.5% (according to individual symptoms), cholestatic – by 8%, and also improves the biochemical parameters of liver function: p = 0.060; GGTP, p = 0.014 and it helps to stabilize the composition of the microbiota, increasing the total level of LVH (p < 0.05), mainly due to normalization of acetic acid values, improvement of the anaerobic index: before treatment -0.858 ± 0.152, after -0.601 ± 0.163 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion. The inclusion of Polysorb in the pathogenetic therapy of patients with HCV (F3) helps to stabilize the composition of the microbiota, while no side effects or adverse events have been recorded.
Direct comparative study of anti-IgE and anti-IL4Rα therapy effectiveness in patients with severe allergic and mixed bronchial asthma
Authors: Naumova V. V. , Beltyukov E. К. , Kovtun О. P. , Bykova G. A. , Troshina V. I. , Mineeva A. N.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. There is insufficiency of direct comparative studies of genetically engineered biological drugs (GEBD) for severe bronchial asthma (SA) treatment in scientific databases.

Aim. To compare omalizumab and dupilumab effectiveness in patients with allergic and mixed SA in real clinical practice.

Materials and methods. The direct comparative study included SA patients with an allergic component from regional registry of Sverdlovsk region. The data of patients with allergic (n = 68) and mixed (n = 27) SA treated with omalizumab (n = 62) and dupilumab (n = 33) were analyzed. Therapy effectiveness was determined for 12 months in general group No. 1, allergic asthma group No. 2 and mixed asthma group No. 3 according to the following indicators: asthma control level (ACT), proportion of patients with uncontrolled asthma, need for systemic glucocorticosteroids (SGCS) and short‐acting beta agonists (SABA), basic therapy volume, asthma exacerbations number, emergency calls and hospitalizations, forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV ), assessment of life quality (AQLQ and SNOT-22). Control evaluation visits were conducted before therapy start, after 4 and 12 months of biologics taking.

Results. In general, during the 12 months of targeted therapy in patients receiving omalizumab statistically significant positive dynamics was observed in 12 of the 13 evaluated indicators; in patients receiving dupilumab – in 9 indicators. When analyzing such indicators as, ACT, taking SGCS, exacerbations of SA, FEV , statistically significant positive dynamics was revealed for all 4 indicators in patients receiving omalizumab in group No. 2 and in patients receiving dupilumab in group No. 3.

Conclusions. Patients with allergic component of SA respond equally well to therapy with omalizumab and dupilumab. At the same time, a tendency towards the advantage of omalizumab in patients with allergic asthma, and dupilumab in patients with a mixed phenotype of the disease was revealed.
Epithelial cell proliferation index in patients with atrophic gastritis depending on the presence of complete or incomplete intestinal metaplasia in the gastric antrum
Authors: Ryabokon R. V. , Tsukanov V. V. , Khorzhevskii V. A. , Vasyutin A. V. , Tonkikh J. L.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. There is a debate about the significance of intestinal metaplasia (IM) subtypes for the development of gastric cancer. Therefore, determining the indicators of cellular renewal in individuals with complete and incomplete IM is certainly a topical issue.

Aim. To study the proliferative activity of epithelial cells of the gastric antrum in patients with Helicobacter pylori-positive antral atrophic gastritis depending on the subtype of IM.

Materials and methods. The study included 20 people with chronic antral non-atrophic gastritis (CNG; group A), 20 patients with chronic antral atrophic gastritis (CAG) without IM (group B), 20 patients with CAG with complete IM (group C) and 20 people with CAG with incomplete IM (group D). The stage of chronic gastritis was assessed by the morphological method in accordance with the modified Sydney classification. Typing of IM foci in the gastric mucosa was performed using the PAS reaction. Proliferation activity was studied by the expression of nuclear protein Ki67 using immunohistochemistry.

Results. The proliferation index in the foci of complete BM in group C was 5%, and in group D in the foci of incomplete BM the Ki67 expression index was significantly higher and was 39% (p < 0.001). Outside the foci of metaplasia, the proliferation index was 23.5% in group C and 19% in group D (p = 0.06).

Conclusion. We have registered significantly higher proliferation indicators of gastric epithelial cells in foci with incomplete IM compared to foci with complete IM. Determination of proliferation indicators in foci of incomplete intestinal metaplasia may be a marker of an increased risk of developing gastric cancer.
6-minute walk test in patients hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Kanaeva T. V. , Karoli N. A.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. The 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT) plays a key role in assessing functional exercise tolerance and prognosis for a wide range of chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In acute bronchopulmonary diseases, in particular COVID-19, there is practically no data on the possibilities of using 6MWT.

Aim. To compare the results of a 6-minute walk test with clinical and laboratory parameters of patients hospitalized with new coronovirus infection.

Materials and methods. The prospective, non-randomized comparative study sequentially enrolled 117 patients hospitalized with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Upon admission to the hospital, all patients performed 6MWT in accordance with international recommendations.

Results. During the 6-minute trial, patients walked an average of 390 m (340.0; 420.0). In 96.6% of patients, there was a marked limitation of physical activity. Desaturation during the 6-minute test was registered in 25 (21.4%) patients. When conducting a correlation analysis, it was found that the result of the test with physical activity (the number of meters traveled) is associated with both initial and final SpO2, the presence of desaturation and the severity of dyspnea according to Borg, with the age of patients, the severity of the course of new coronovirus infection, laboratory signs of the activity of the inflammatory process upon admission. Relationships between the results of 6MWT (the number of meters covered and the % decrease in SpO2) and the duration of hospitalization, the maximum volume of lung damage according to CT data, the maximum severity of laboratory signs of inflammation (CRP, ferritin) during hospitalization, the need for oxygen therapy, the volume of anti-inflammatory therapy (doses of systemic glucocorticoids, pulse therapy with methylprednisolone). Patients with desaturation during exercise had a more severe course of the disease with a large amount of lung tissue damage, as well as higher laboratory indicators of the activity of the inflammatory process. It was also found that patients who desaturate during the exercise test more often required oxygen therapy during hospitalization, more often pulse therapy with methylprednisolone was performed.

Conclusion. Patients with COVID-19 develop a decrease in physical performance, which is multifactorial. These include respiratory failure due to lung tissue damage, muscle weakness, nervous system damage (anxiety, depression), and systemic inflammation, which characterizes the severity of the infection and the associated immune response. The results of 6MWT may have a certain prognostic value in terms of the severity of the course of the disease, the severity of systemic inflammation, the need for oxygen therapy, and pulse therapy with glucocorticoids.
Biliary tract dysfunctions: Possibilities of combined drugs of plant origin as advantage therapy
Authors: Trukhan D. I. , Rozhkova M. Yu. , Samoilova Iu. G. , Oleynik O. A. , Matveeva M. V.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is caused by excess accumulation of fats in hepatocytes. An increasing percentage of adipose tissue is associated with chronic inflammation and developing oxidative stress. These pathological conditions can lead to the progression of steatosis to steatohepatitis with the further development of fibrosis and cirrhosis.

Aim. To evaluate the indicators of lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defence factors in steatosis and steatohepatitis in patients with NAFLD.

Materials and methods. During the work, 116 patients with NAFLD were examined, of which 65 had steatosis, and 51 had steatohepatitis. The study of biochemical markers of metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates was performed on a Mindray BS-380 biochemical analyzer. The indicators of the LPO-AOD system (MDA, SOD, catalase, ceruloplasmin) were assessed using spectrophotometric methods. Statistical data processing was carried out in the STATISTICA and SPSS 26 programs using nonparametric tests.

Results. Patients with steatohepatitis had more severe dyslipidemia, blood triglyceride, total cholesterol levels and LDL were significantly higher (p > 0.05). Impaired cholesterol metabolism was reflected by a high atherogenic index of 3.46. In patients with steatosis, changes in the lipid profile were less pronounced. No disturbances in protein and carbohydrate metabolism were detected. Increased levels of liver markers were noted only in patients with steatohepatitis. The change in the balance in the LPO- AOD system was more pronounced in patients with steatohepatitis; they had a high level of MDA, a high concentration of catalase; in patients with steatosis, only a decrease in the level of MDA and an increase in the level of ceruloplasmin were noted.

Conclusion. Dyslipidemia, hepatocyte cytolysis and liver fibrosis are detected in patients with steatohepatitis. Disturbances in the LPO-AOD system have been identified in both forms of NAFLD, but in steatosis they are compensated. In steatohepatitis, disturbances in “LPO-AOD” in the form of an increase in pro-oxidants and a decrease in antioxidants cause the development of oxidative stress.
“Dark and bright sides” of Gilbert’s syndrome
Authors: Plotnikova E. Yu. , Sinkova M. N. , Isakov L. K.
Published: June 2024

Gilbert’s syndrome, also known as benign hyperbilirubinemia, was described more than 100 years ago. It has usually been considered a physiological abnormality characterized by a mild elevation of the systemic level of unconjugated bilirubin, in the absence of any underlying liver or overt RBC hemolysis. The molecular basis of Gilbert’s syndrome lies in the impairment of the conjugation of bilirubin with glucuronic acid in the hepatocytes, which is mediated by a specific hepatic enzyme named bilirubin-UDP-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 that forms bilirubin diglucuronoside. Clearance of various xenobiotics, which are not substrates for glucuronosylation, is impaired in patients with Gilbert’s syndrome; their detailed list is provided in the article. Fatigue, asthenia, and various vaguely defined dyspeptic complaints attributed to Gilbert’s syndrome in the past are no longer considered a part of this condition, and proper evaluation of possible causes is required in these cases. Since the re-discovery of the potent antioxidant effects of bilirubin in the late 1980s, as well as the multiple intracellular signalling pathways affected by bilirubin, an ever-increasing body of evidence suggests that individuals with Gilbert’s syndrome may benefit from the mild hyperbilirubinemia and are actually protected from the development of a wide range of “diseases of civilization”, such as cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers, and autoimmune or neurodegenerative diseases. Gilbert’s syndrome is defined phenotypically, and therefore not according to predisposing genetic markers, as the elevation of serum unconjugated bilirubin concentration above the upper limit of normal, with no laboratory signs of hemolysis or liver damage. This review analyses the current state of medical knowledge given recent discoveries in this rapidly developing field, as well as their possible clinical significance, and provides a new perspective on this condition.
At an appointment with a patient with diarrhea: the doctor’s algorithm of actions
Authors: Gaus O. V. , Livzan M. A. , Gavrilenko D. A.
Published: June 2024

Diarrhoea is one of the most common gastroenterological complaints made by patients who seek medical attention. It can be a manifestation of the whole range of different diseases, although not exclusively of the digestive tract, which requires a thorough examination of the patient and often is a challenge for the clinician, especially in the limited time settings during an outpatient visit. The cause of diarrhoea should be identified early to begin treatment of the patient in a timely and rational manner. In managing a patient with diarrhoea, a diagnostic search must begin with the following actions: working out complaints in detail, identification of symptoms of anxiety and taking a medical history, including epidemiological, pharmaceutical, hereditary, allergic, as well as analysis of dietary preferences. A physical examination is an integral part of the patient management; it allows to assess the general health condition, identify signs of dehydration and clinical stigmas of the underlying condition, which may manifest itself as diarrhoea. After an initial examination and exclusion of anxiety symptoms, a number of laboratory and instrumental examination methods is prescribed to determine the cause of diarrhoea. Given the polyetiology of diarrhoea syndrome, the range of methods for examining the patient can be quite wide, therefore the choice of area for the diagnostic search and the scope of the necessary diagnostic procedures is carried out on an individual basis, taking into account the features of the clinical picture, history data and physical examination findings. Treatment of a patient with diarrhoea at the pre-examination stage must include rehydration, timely detection and correction of electrolyte disturbances and other possible complications. Once the cause of diarrhoea has been established, the patient is treated due to the identified etiological factor in accordance with the current clinical guidelines. The article presents a step-by-step algorithm for making a differential diagnosis in a patient with diarrhoea, and also presents our own clinical observations.
Abdominal spastic pain: concepts, diagnosis, treatment approaches
Authors: Minushkin O. N.
Published: June 2024

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Effect of ustekinumab on extraintestinal manifestations in patients with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
Authors: Abdulganieva D. I. , Mukhametova D. D.
Published: June 2024

This review presents the main extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), in particular ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), describes the modern potential mechanisms, classification, characteristics and frequency of the main EIMs (rheumatological, skin, ophthalmological and orofacial manifestations). The issues of the mechanism of action, indications for prescribing ustekinumab are also covered in detail, the place of ustekinumab in the treatment of IBD is highlighted, the effectiveness of this drug in relation to the treatment of IBD is assessed – summarizes the results of a retrospective analysis of data from the UNITI-1, UNITI-2, IM-UNITI clinical trial program, prospective cohort studies, retrospective cohort studies and a registry study on the effect of ustekinumab on the course of various EIMs and the outcomes of immune-mediated diseases (IMDs) in patients with CD and UC. Ustekinumab is a fully monoclonal human immunoglobulin G1k that binds to the common p40 subunit of interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, which are actively involved not only in the development of intestinal symptoms, but are also triggers in the development of various EIMs. A review of the literature showed that ustekinumab may be effective for the treatment of EIMs in patients with UC and CD, especially in relation to dermatological and rheumatological manifestations, and is effective against psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. A literature search of MEDLINE®, EMBASE®, BIOSIS Previews® and DERWENT® and/or other resources, including internal/external databases was conducted on April 15, 2024.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease as a risk factor of dental hard tissues erosions
Authors: Yanushevich O. O. , Maev I. V. , Krikheli N. I. , Sokolov Ph. S. , Andreev D. N. , Bychkova M. N. , Lobanova E. G. , Starovoytova M. Yu.
Published: June 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common chronic disease leading to a spontaneous and regular retrograde flow of gastric and/or duodenal contents into the esophagus. Reflux of the gastric contents into the oral cavity refers to the extraesophageal presentation of the disease, which, in the absence of timely treatment, can result in erosion of dental hard tissue (EDHT) through repeated exposure of the dental tissue to acidic contents. EDHT are non-carious lesions of the dental hard tissues (mainly enamel, and in some cases dentin), induced by a chemical reaction involving acids, which results in demineralization processes. The incidence rates of EDHT in adult patients with GERD are 32.5–51.5%. The EDHT in GERD develops in stages. Initially, the gradual degradation of tooth pelicula happens when it gradually becomes decayed by repeated acidic attacks. The loss of the pelicula results in direct contact of hydrochloric acid refluxate with the enamel surface and initiation of its demineralization at pH < 5.5 with dissolution of hydroxyapatite crystals. Given the high prevalence of GERD in the population, it seems important to update an integrated approach to the treatment of such patients, which involves pharmacotherapy provided by the gastroenterologist, as well as prevention and minimally invasive treatment of presentations in the oral cavity by the dentist. Patients with EDHT due to GERD need to maintain individual oral hygiene (use mouth washes with a neutral pH level, avoid abrasive toothpastes), use remineralization therapy at home applying remogels (Tooth Mousse), and also be observed by a dentist as part of the follow-up care. Minimally invasive treatment by the dentist involves restorations using composite tooth filling materials and ceramic veneers. It is reasonable to empirically use proton pump inhibitors twice a day for 3 months for the direct treatment of GERD in patients with EDHT.
Adsorption of Silver from Aqueous Solution with High Capacity and Selectively by Using Ag+ Imprinted Polymeric Nanoadsorbent
Authors: Karakoç Veyis , Esen Cem , Denizli Adil
Published: June 2024

The selective separation of precious metals from complex aqueous solutions is important in protecting the environment, aquatic ecosystems, water resources and recycling resources. In this study, cysteine-containing polymeric nanoparticles were synthesized using the molecular imprinting (MIP) technique with the mini-emulsion polymerization method. The basis of the polymer design is inspired by affinity of silver to cysteine in biological systems. The synthesized silver ion imprinted (Ag+-IIP) poly(hydroxyethylmethacrylate-N-methacryloyl-L-cysteine) poly(HEMA-MAC) nanoparticles were characterized by elemental analysis, zeta sizer, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effects of pH, ionic strength and interaction time on adsorption of Ag+ ions were investigated. In experimental studies, the highest adsorption amount (196.9 mg g-1 nanoparticle) was reached in a short period of 40 min at pH 5.0 and 150 mg L-1 concentration. Selectivity studies of synthesized Ag+ -IIP nanoparticles against silver (Ag+ ) ions were carried out in the presence of lithium (Li+), barium (Ba2+), mercury (Hg2+) and cadmium (Cd2+) ions. Experimental results indicate that nanoparticles adsorb Ag+ ions with high selectivity. Ag+ -IIP nanoparticles have 3.7, 3.1, 2.4, and 2.6 times more selective or higher affinity for Ag+ ions compared to Li+, Ba2+, Hg2+ and Cd2+ ions, respectively, compared to Ag+ -non-imprinted (NIP) nanoparticles.
Sorbic Acid in Cheesemaking: New Forms of Stable Suspension
Authors: Mayorov Alexander , Musina Olga , Loginov Vitaly , Suray Natalya
Published: June 2024

Sorbic acid and its salts are one of the most common food preservatives worldwide, especially in the sphere of cheesemaking. Unfortunately, aqueous solutions of sorbic acid are ineffective against microorganisms. When sorbic acid dissolves in the aqueous phase of the product, it loses most of its fungistatic properties. This article offers a new method for stabilizing sorbic acid nanosuspension. The method is based on the fact that sorbic acid has different solubility in water and alcohol. The patented nanosuspension is stable, homogeneous, and low in viscosity. As a result, it can be sprayed on surfaces and in the air. The technology is simple enough to be implemented in industrial conditions.
The Effects of Nicotine and Cannabinoids on Cytokines
Authors: Miller Grace , Pareek Ojas , Penman Samantha L. , Thanos Panayotis K.
Published: June 2024

Background:

The usage of nicotine and cannabinoids has rapidly grown in popularity, leading to
increased research into how they can affect people’s health, both positively and negatively. Nicotine, Cannabidiol
(CBD), and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) have been shown to have significant effects on cytokine
function and inflammatory response.

Objective:

This study aimed to review and summarize the current literature on the effects of nicotine and cannabinoids
on cytokines, including interleukins, TNF, IFN, and TGF-β.

Methods:

Literature search was conducted on Medline/PubMed electronic databases utilizing the search terms
“nicotine” OR “cannabis” OR “cannabinoids” AND “cytokine” AND “inflammation” AND “stress” AND
“immune” from 11/1973 to 02/2024.

Results:

THC and CBD usage have been associated with conflicting impacts on immune response, and
observed to both exacerbate and inhibit inflammation. Nicotine has been shown to be generally proinflammatory
with regards to cytokines. These responses have been reported to have significant effects on
bodily response to inflammation-related diseases. Nicotine usage is associated with worsened outcomes for
some conditions, like chronic pain, but improved outcomes for others, like arthritis. The impacts of cannabinoid
usage tend to be more positive, exerting anti-inflammatory effects across a wide range of diseases.
Given the widespread usage of these substances, it is important to understand the nature of their consequences
on immune functions and the underlying mechanisms by which they act.

Conclusion:

This review has covered how cannabinoids and nicotine affect inflammation directly and how
these effects can be attributed to the treatment of inflammatory diseases. In summary, the existing research
studying the effects of cannabinoids and nicotine supports the major relationship between nicotine and cannabis
use and inflammatory diseases.
Diagnostic Value of 3.0 T Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Active Crohn's
Disease
Authors: Fu Li-Li , Zhuang Xiao-Zhao , Li Chang-Qing , Chen Chui-Wen
Published: June 2024

Background::

Magnetic resonance enteroclysis (MRE) has been widely applied to diagnose Crohn’s disease (CD). Magnetic resonance (MR) at 3.0 T improves
signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), shortens image acquisition time, and shows more advantages.

Objective::

This study aimed to retrospectively analyze the diagnostic value of 3.0 T MR imaging for active CD.

Methods::

48 CD patients hospitalized in our hospital from January 2021 to December 2022 were selected as the study subjects. These 48 CD patients
underwent both double-balloon enteroscopy and 3.0 T MRE. All patients' arterial phase signal, venous phase signal, bowel wall, and bowel lumen
of MRE were observed to identify whether they suffered from active CD. Based on the results of enteroscopy, the number of true positives, true
negatives, false negatives, and false positives diagnosed by MRE were screened; next, the diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of MRE
in assessing active CD were calculated.

Results::

Of the 48 patients, 39 were diagnosed with small bowel CD by MRE, which was not significantly different from the results of enteroscopy
(P>0.05). According to MRE diagnostic results, the arterial phase predominantly presented high signal intensity, and the venous phase mainly
presented low signal intensity or isointensity. Small bowel CD lesions were primarily characterized by bowel wall thickening, rare pneumatosis
enhancement of the bowel wall, bowel lumen pneumatosis or dilatation, and rare strictures. Besides, MRE presented an accuracy of 93.75%,
sensitivity of 97.37%, and specificity of 80.00% in diagnosing CD.

Conclusion::

3.0 T MR imaging has diagnostic value for active CD and shows certain clinical application value.
Qualifications, Self-esteem, and Attitude of Health Practitioners toward Personality Disorders in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aldrihem Maha Hamad , Zaidi Uzma
Published: June 2024

Background

The attitudes of society and mental health practitioners towards mental illness are subject to multiple dimensions. This may affect the quality of health services and the client’s ability to seek treatment. It was hypothesized that there is a relationship between qualification, self-esteem, and attitudes toward personality disorders among mental health practitioners in Saudi Arabia.

Objective

This study aimed to assess how attitudes toward clients’ personality disorders relate to work qualifications and self-esteem among health practitioners in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A correlational, within-subject, cross-sectional study was conducted, including psychologists and psychiatrists (N=171) across the five regions of Saudi Arabia, using a survey research design. The online survey contained a demographic information sheet and two standardized scales of attitudes toward personality disorders and self-esteem.

Results

Descriptive analysis, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and ANOVA were conducted using SPSS. Significant positive correlations were found between the total Attitude to Personality Disorder Questionnaire and self-esteem, APDQ, and qualification scores (r = .319 and .283, both p < .001). There was also a significant positive correlation between self-esteem and qualification scores (r = .378, p <.001).

Conclusion

The findings of the study may help mental health practitioners understand attitudes toward personality disorders and the role of qualification and self-esteem in prompting a positive attitude. Mental health practitioner training interventions can enhance and support service quality. On-job professional training, additional training on how to treat personality disorders, and proper supervision for clinicians are highly recommended.
Corrigendum to: Deep Learning-based Automated Knee Joint Localization in
Radiographic Images Using Faster R-CNN
Authors: Sivakumari T. , Vani R.
Published: June 2024

In the online version of the article, a change was made in
the section of author’s affiliation. The affiliation of Drs.
Sivakumari and Vani in the online version of the article entitled
“Deep Learning-based Automated Knee Joint Localization in
Radiographic Images Using Faster R-CNN has been updated in
“Current Medical Imaging Reviews”, 2024; 20: e15734056262464 [1].

The original article can be found online at: https://
www.eurekaselect.com/article/135374

Original:

T. Sivakumari1 and R. Vani1*

1SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Faculty of
Engineering and Technology, Ramapuram, Chennai, Tamil
Nadu, India

Corrected:

T. Sivakumari1 and R. Vani1*

1Department of Electronics and Communication
Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology,
Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Ramapuram, Chennai,
Tamil Nadu, India
Corrigendum to: Performance analysis of Alexnet for Classification of Knee
Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sivakumari T. , Vani R.
Published: June 2024

In the online version of the article, a change was made in
the section of author’s affiliation. The affiliation of Drs.
Sivakumari and Vani in the online version of the article entitled
“Performance analysis of Alexnet for Classification of Knee
Osteoarthritis has been updated in “Current Medical Imaging Reviews”,
2024; 20: e090823219574 [1].

The original article can be found online at:
https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/133483

Original:

T. Sivakumari1 and R. Vani1*

1SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Faculty of
Engineering and Technology, Ramapuram, Chennai, Tamil
Nadu, India

Corrected:

T. Sivakumari1 and R. Vani1*

1Department of Electronics and Communication
Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology,
Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Ramapuram, Chennai,
Tamil Nadu, India
Browser Analysis and Exploitation
Authors: Misra Tripti , Nair Devakrishna C. , V Prabhu Manikandan , Pradhan Abhishek K.
Published: June 2024

Browsers are utilized in one form or another to browse the internet since
they have become an essential component of our online lives. Additionally, we may use
browsers to navigate the OS's file system in addition to using them for web browsing. It
has been noticed that by default, browsers save data including credit card numbers,
usernames, passwords, form data, emails, and other sensitive information. Additionally,
downloaded media including images, videos, executables, documents, etc. are present
in browsers. A user's browsing habits and interests can be inferred from their
bookmarks and browsing history. Thus, browsers keep a lot of private data about users
and their browsing patterns. Due to the type and volume of data they store with them,
they play a crucial role in forensics. Depending on the platform being used, there are a
variety of web browsers accessible, including Safari, Chrome, Firefox, IE, and Opera.
This chapter will teach us how to do forensics on various types of browsers. The
following are some of the numerous places an investigator could look for evidence
online like Bookmarks, Downloads, Cache, Cookies by surfing history, and many
more. This chapter also discusses browser exploitation and issues involved in forensic
investigation.
Machine Learning Approach to Detect Ransomware Threats in Health Care Systems
Authors: Sapra Varun , Vishnoi Ankit , Sapra Luxmi
Published: June 2024

With the advancement in healthcare technology, the industry is moving from
conventional diagnosis methods to digital health platforms. These digital health
platforms are useful for patients in different ways like from initial disease diagnosis to
drug prescription and maintaining electronic health records. These health records
contain a lot of personal information of patients that has high monetary and intelligence
value, so such healthcare systems are more vulnerable and targeted by cyber thieves.
Several techniques have been implemented by healthcare organizations for the early
detection of such cyber threats and for securing the medical records of patients. One
such method is machine learning (ML) for the detection of threats or adulterated data
due to some payload ransomware. This chapter highlights different healthcare data
breaches and the impact of cyber-attacks on medical data using artificial neural
networks.
Functional Outcomes from Cochlear Implants in Children with Acquired Hearing Loss: Case Studies
Authors: Sreekumar Sita , AP Shibila Sherin , Dev Akshaya
Published: June 2024

Purpose: Early identification of postlingual hearing loss (HL) and knowing its probable cause is of great significance. Causes that result in irreversible profound HL require immediate radiological investigation and intervention to decide the best listening device.Methods: Case reports of three children with acquired HL using cochlear implant (CI) are being presented to understand the functional outcomes in domains of audition and language skills after 12 months of CI use. The age of onset of deafness and implantation were not identical. Etiology of deafness was meningitis in two cases and viral infection in the other. Consent was obtained from the parents for participating in the study. Case history review was conducted to collect demographic and audiological details of the participants. Functional benefits from CI in those children were assessed in the domains of auditory and language skills using standardized assessment tools respectively.Results: Improvements in all domains of auditory and language skills were observed. However, the degree of benefits depended on the duration of deafness, etiology of deafness, age at onset of deafness, age at implantation and effectiveness of intervention.Conclusions: The results of the study can be used during pre-implant CI counselling to facilitate development of real expectations about the functional benefits of CI in children with acquired HL due to various reasons and showed the importance of early cochlear implantation following the diagnosis. These case presentations give an understanding of the various factors that can affect the functional outcome from CI in children with post-lingual HL.
Using a Mobile Messenger Service as a Digital Diary to Capture Patients’ Experiences Along Their Interorganizational Treatment Path in Gynecologic Oncology: Lessons Learned
Authors: Baum Eleonore , Thiel Christian , Kobleder Andrea , Bernhardsgrütter Daniela , Engst Ramona , Maurer Carola , Koller Antje
Published: June 2024

A digital diary in the form of a mobile messenger service offers a novel method for data collection in cancer research. Little is known about the things to consider when using this data collection method in clinical research for patients with cancer. In this Viewpoint paper, we discuss the lessons we learned from using a qualitative digital diary method via a mobile messenger service for data collection in oncology care. The lessons learned focus on three main topics: (1) data quality, (2) practical aspects, and (3) data protection. We hope to provide useful information to other researchers who consider this method for their research with patients. First, in this paper, we argue that the interactive nature of a digital diary via a messenger service is very well suited for the phenomenological approach and produces high-quality data. Second, we discuss practical issues of data collection with a mobile messenger service, including participant and researcher interaction. Third, we highlight corresponding aspects around technicalities, particularly those regarding data security. Our views on data privacy and information security are summarized in a comprehensive checklist to inform fellow researchers on the selection of a suitable messenger service for different scenarios. In our opinion, a digital diary via a mobile messenger service can provide high-quality data almost in real time and from participants’ daily lives. However, some considerations must be made to ensure that patient data are sufficiently protected. The lessons we learned can guide future qualitative research using this relatively novel method for data collection in cancer research.
Ethics of the Use of Social Media as Training Data for AI Models Used for Digital Phenotyping
Authors: Jaiswal Aditi , Shah Aekta , Harjadi Christopher , Windgassen Erik , Washington Peter
Published: June 2024

Digital phenotyping, or personal sensing, is a field of research that seeks to quantify traits and characteristics of people using digital technologies, usually for health care purposes. In this commentary, we discuss emerging ethical issues regarding the use of social media as training data for artificial intelligence (AI) models used for digital phenotyping. In particular, we describe the ethical need for explicit consent from social media users, particularly in cases where sensitive information such as labels related to neurodiversity are scraped. We also advocate for the use of community-based participatory design principles when developing health care AI models using social media data.
El Voto Electrónico. Una perspectiva sobre su utilización en el mundo
Authors: López Cruz Isaac Raúl , Cruz Meléndez Christian Arturo , Barragán López Arisaí Darío
Published: June 2024

Un elemento fundamental de los regímenes políticos basados en la democracia representativa es el voto o sufragio,mediante el cual los ciudadanos ejercen el derecho a participar o elegir a sus representantes. Este ejerciciodemocrático también ha sido influido por el uso de tecnologías digitales, como lo es el voto electrónico, el cual seejerce a través de urnas digitales en lugar de las tradicionales de papel. A pesar de las ventajas que ofrece estaforma de votar, tales como, la facilidad, la rapidez para el conteo y resultados, el ahorro de recursos no ha sidoutilizado masivamente en el mundo, ni siquiera por los países con regímenes democráticos fuertes. En este sentidose presentan retos como la seguridad, confiabilidad y la brecha digital para implementar la votación electrónica enmás países. De esta forma y utilizando una metodología cualitativa, el presente trabajo revisa en que países estápresente el voto electrónico, y en cuáles este ha sido abandonado o al menos sujeto a revisión.
МҮҮН ХЭМЭЭХ ШИНЭ ШАШНЫ ХӨДӨЛГӨӨНИЙ ТУХАЙ
Authors: С Дэмбэрэл
Published: June 2024

Энэхүү өгүүлэлдээ Мүүн хэмээх шинэ шашны хөдөлгөөний үүсэл, хөгжил, сургаал номлолын гол үзэл санааг тодруулахыг зорилоо. Мөн Мүүнийхнийг судалж ирсэн гадаад, дотоодын эрдэмтдийн судалгааны товч тойм, нийгмийн бүлгүүдийн Мүүний гэх шинэ шашны хөдөлгөөнд хандах хандлагыг тодорхойлон, ямар учраас гаж урсгал хэмээн үздэг болохыг шашны судлалын онолын үүднээс тайлбарлахыг оролдсон бөгөөд ялангуяа нийгэмд үзүүлдэг нөлөөг нь тодруулан авч үзэв