bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages with lipid nanosystems reduces PDAC tumor burden and liver metastasis
Authors: Palencia-Campos Adrián , Ruiz-Cañas Laura , Abal-Sanisidro Marcelina , López-Gil Juan Carlos , Batres-Ramos Sandra , Saraiva Sofia Mendes , Yagüe Balbino , Navarro Diego , Alcalá Sonia , Rubiolo Juan A. , Bidan Nadège , Sánchez Laura , Mura Simona , Hermann Patrick C. , de la Fuente María , Sainz Bruno
Published: December 2024

Background

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) requires innovative therapeutic strategies to counteract its progression and metastatic potential. Since the majority of patients are diagnosed with advanced metastatic disease, treatment strategies targeting not only the primary tumor but also metastatic lesions are needed. Tumor-Associated Macrophages (TAMs) have emerged as central players, significantly influencing PDAC progression and metastasis. Our objective was to validate an innovative therapeutic strategy involving the reprogramming of TAMs using lipid nanosystems to prevent the formation of a pro-metastatic microenvironment in the liver.

Results

In vitro results demonstrate that M2-polarized macrophages lose their M2-phenotype following treatment with lipid nanoemulsions composed of vitamin E and sphingomyelin (VitE:SM), transitioning to an M0/M1 state. Specifically, VitE:SM nanoemulsion treatment decreased the expression of macrophage M2 markers such as Arg1 and Egr2, while M1 markers such as Cd86, Il-1b and Il-12b increased. Additionally, the TGF-βR1 inhibitor Galunisertib (LY2157299) was loaded into VitE:SM nanoemulsions and delivered to C57BL/6 mice orthotopically injected with KPC PDAC tumor cells. Treated mice showed diminished primary tumor growth and reduced TAM infiltration in the liver. Moreover, we observed a decrease in liver metastasis with the nanoemulsion treatment in an intrasplenic model of PDAC liver metastasis. Finally, we validated the translatability of our VitE:SM nanosystem therapy in a human cell-based 3D co-culture model in vivo, underscoring the pivotal role of macrophages in the nanosystem’s therapeutic effect in the context of human PDAC metastasis.

Conclusions

The demonstrated effectiveness and safety of our nanosystem therapy highlights a promising therapeutic approach for PDAC, showcasing its potential in reprogramming TAMs and mitigating the occurrence of liver metastasis.

Graphical abstract
BOLD-CSF dynamics assessed using real-time phase contrast CSF flow interleaved with cortical BOLD MRI
Authors: Roefs Emiel C. A. , Eiling Ingmar , de Bresser Jeroen , van Osch Matthias J.P. , Hirschler Lydiane
Published: December 2024

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) motion and pulsatility has been proposed to play a crucial role in clearing brain waste. Although its driving forces remain debated, increasing evidence suggests that large amplitude vasomotion drives such CSF fluctuations. Recently, a fast blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) fMRI sequence was used to measure the coupling between CSF fluctuations and low-frequency hemodynamic oscillations in the human cortex. However, this technique is not quantitative, only captures unidirectional flow and is sensitive to B0-fluctuations. Real-time phase contrast (pcCSF) instead measures CSF flow dynamics in a fast, quantitative, bidirectional and B0-insensitive manner, but lacks information on hemodynamic brain oscillations. In this study we propose to combine the strengths of both sequences by interleaving real-time phase contrast with a cortical BOLD scan, thereby enabling the quantification of the interaction between CSF flow and cortical BOLD.

Methods

Two experiments were performed. First, we compared the CSF flow measured using real-time phase contrast (pcCSF) with the inflow-sensitized BOLD (iCSF) measurements by interleaving both techniques at the repetition level and planning them at the same location. Next, we compared the BOLD-CSF coupling obtained using the novel pcCSF interleaved with cortical BOLD to the coupling obtained with the original iCSF. To time-lock the CSF fluctuations, participants were instructed to perform slow, abdominal paced breathing.

Results

pcCSF captures bidirectional CSF dynamics with a more pronounced in- and outflow curve than the original iCSF method. With the pcCSF method, the BOLD-CSF coupling was stronger (mean cross-correlation peak increase = 0.22, p = .008) and with a 1.9 s shorter temporal lag (p = .016), as compared to using the original iCSF technique.

Conclusions

In this study, we introduce a new method to study the coupling of CSF flow measured in the fourth ventricle to cortical BOLD fluctuations. In contrast to the original approach, the use of phase contrast MRI to measure CSF flow provides a quantitative in- and outflow curve, and improved BOLD-CSF coupling metrics.
Subtopic-specific heterogeneity in computer-based learning behaviors
Authors: Lee HaeJin , Bosch Nigel
Published: December 2024

Background

Self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies can be domain specific. However, it remains unclear whether this specificity extends to different subtopics within a single subject domain. In this study, we collected data from 210 college students engaged in a computer-based learning environment to examine the heterogeneous manifestations of learning behaviors across four distinct subtopics in introductory statistics. Further, we explore how the time spent engaging in metacognitive strategies correlated with learning gain in those subtopics.

Results

By employing two different analytical approaches that combine data-driven learning analytics (i.e., sequential pattern mining in this case), and theory-informed methods (i.e., coherence analysis), we discovered significant variability in the frequency of learning patterns that are potentially associated with SRL-relevant strategies across four subtopics. In a subtopic related to calculations, engagement in coherent quizzes (i.e., a type of metacognitive strategy) was found to be significantly less related to learning gains compared to other subtopics. Additionally, we found that students with different levels of prior knowledge and learning gains demonstrated varying degrees of engagement in learning patterns in an SRL context.

Conclusion

The findings imply that the use—and the effectiveness—of learning patterns that are potentially associated with SRL-relevant strategies varies not only across contexts and domains, but even across different subtopics within a single subject. This underscores the importance of personalized, context-aware SRL training interventions in computer-based learning environments, which could significantly enhance learning outcomes by addressing the heterogeneous relationships between SRL activities and outcomes. Further, we suggest theoretical implications of subtopic-specific heterogeneity within the context of various SRL models. Understanding SRL heterogeneity enhances these theories, offering more nuanced insights into learners’ metacognitive strategies across different subtopics.
The Structure, Function, and Adaptation of Lower-Limb Aponeuroses: Implications for Myo-Aponeurotic Injury
Authors: Hulm Scott , Timmins Ryan G. , Hickey Jack T. , Maniar Nirav , Lin Yi-Chung , Knaus Katherine R. , Heiderscheit Bryan C. , Blemker Silvia S. , Opar David A.
Published: December 2024

The aponeurosis is a large fibrous connective tissue structure within and surrounding skeletal muscle and is a critical component of the muscle–tendon unit (MTU). Due to the lack of consensus on terminology and the heterogeneous nature of the aponeurosis between MTUs, there are several questions that remain unanswered. For example, the aponeurosis is often conflated with the free tendon rather than being considered an independent structure. This has subsequent implications when interpreting data regarding the structure, function, and adaptation of the aponeuroses from these studies. In recent years, a body of work has emerged to suggest that acute injury to the myo-aponeurotic complex may have an impact on return-to-sport timeframes and reinjury rates. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide a more detailed understanding of the morphology and mechanical behaviour common to all aponeuroses, as well as the unique characteristics of specific lower-limb aponeuroses that are commonly injured. This review provides the practitioner with a current understanding of the mechanical, material, and adaptive properties of lower limb aponeuroses and suggests directions for future research related to the myo-aponeurotic complex.
Comprehension of the adapted Urticaria Activity Score measure and patient guidance document: qualitative interviews with adults and adolescents with chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Skalicky Anne M. , Wang Yan , Eseyin Olabimpe R. , Stefan Marissa , Rane Pallavi B. , McLaren Julie , Maurer Marcus
Published: December 2024

Objective

A key component of determining that a patient-reported outcome (PRO) measure is fit-for-purpose is to ensure that respondents understand its instructions and items. Any modification to a measure should be evaluated for relevance and understandability. The objective of the study was to assess comprehension of the adapted Urticaria Activity Score (UAS) questionnaire among adolescents aged populations with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and the modification to UAS question 2 to include patient-friendly terminology “wheals (hives).” A patient guidance document for completing the adapted UAS was also examined.

Methods

A non-interventional, cross-sectional, qualitative study involving hybrid concept elicitation and cognitive interviews was conducted among adults and adolescents with CSU. Eligibility included clinician confirmation of CSU and experience of itch and hives for ≥ 6 weeks. Study participants were recruited from US clinical sites and online CSU patient communities. Telephone interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Participants reviewed the UAS and provided their input on the UAS guidance document.

Results

Twenty-two interviews were conducted (seven adolescents and 15 adults; mean age 34 ± 18 years, 64% female, 77% White, 77% non-Hispanic, and 59% moderate to severe CSU symptoms). All participants (n = 22/22, 100%) stated that the adapted UAS was clear and “easy” to understand. For the adapted UAS “wheals (hives)” item, several participants were unfamiliar with the term “wheals,” but the term “hives” was well understood by US participants. Most participants reported that it was “easy” or “not difficult” to count and recall the number of hives they had over the past 24 h. Participants found the adapted UAS guidance document “helpful” and “easy to understand” for determining and counting hives in a 24-hour period. Suggestions for improving the guide included adding a picture to aid in counting hives.

Conclusions

Itch and hives are important symptoms of CSU. Results support the content validity of an adapted UAS as a daily measure of severity of itch and hives and provided valuable suggestions for improving its patient guidance, which can be used in future clinical trials involving adults and adolescents ≥ 12 years old with CSU to assess the severity of itch and hives.
Identifying meaningful aspects of health and concepts of interest for assessment in systemic lupus erythematosus: implications for digital clinical measure development
Authors: Kamudoni Paul , Lyden Kate , Günther Oliver , Jaitely Vikas , Araujo Thiago Dantas , Spies Erica , Park Josephine , Thomas Erik , Buie Joy , Blankenship Jennifer M. , Arnaud Laurent
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with heterogeneous clinical manifestations which significantly impacts the daily lives of patients. Herein, we aimed to (i) investigate patients’ perspectives on and experience with SLE; (ii) identify meaningful aspects of health (MAHs) and concepts of interest (COIs) in SLE that could be evaluated using digital clinical measures (DCMs); and (iii) identify target DCMs for their assessment.

Methods

A mixed-methods, multistep approach was deployed for (i) exploring patients’ experience with SLE through a social media listening study and focused group discussions with patients; (ii) mapping patients’ experiences to define MAHs and identify COIs measurable using DCMs; (iii) selecting DCMs for the target COIs; and (iv) identifying types of wearable sensors for measuring COIs in the patients.

Results

Six MAHs related to physical behavior and sleep were identified: difficulty in ambulating, lack of energy, inability to perform activities of daily living, difficulty engaging in sustained walking, inability to perform leisure activities and exercise, and lack of restful sleep. Measurable COIs represented walking (fatigue and pain) and sleep (sleep and pain) characteristics. Five and six DCMs related to stepping behavior and sleep quality, respectively, were identified. Several wearable sensors are available to derive DCMs for physical behavior and sleep; however, patients showed a strong preference for a wrist-worn actigraphy sensor.

Conclusion

We identified DCMs for physical behavior and sleep that are relevant and meaningful to patients with SLE, measurable in a real-world environment with wearable sensors, and have the potential to aid personalized patient care.
The relationship between locomotion and hindlimb morphology in the leopard (Panthera pardus) using a geometric morphometric approach
Authors: Naidoo Riyanta , Iqbal Safiyyah
Published: December 2024

Felid bone morphology is highly influenced by factors such as locomotion, body size, and foraging behaviour. Understanding how these factors influence bone morphology is important for interpreting the behaviour and ecology of such species. This study aimed to determine the extent to which Panthera pardus (i.e. leopard) hindlimb morphology differs from that of other Panthera species, particularly Panthera leo (i.e. lion). Landmark-based geometric morphometric analyses were used to compare 27 Panthera femurs in the anterior and posterior views, by the use of principal component analyses. Distinct clusters were found linking the Panthera species for both the anterior and posterior views, inferring a difference in the femur morphology of the species. The Procrustes ANOVA regression further showed a significant difference in the mean shape between the Panthera femurs, for both the anterior and posterior views. A clear relationship was found between femur morphology and body size, with leopards possessing a more gracile and elongated femur to support a smaller body mass and lions possessing a more robust and stunted femur to support a larger body mass. It was found that femur morphology also correlates with locomotive flexibility and hunting success in felids. Leopard femur morphology aids in speed and flexibility during hunting, as well as aids in propulsion that allows for arboreal locomotion. It was ultimately deduced that femur morphology differs between Panthera species, according to their mechanical demands during locomotion.
Arz’ın Hareketi Üzerine Ali Kuşçu’nun Görüşü ve Bircendî’nin Eleştirisi
Authors: Ragep F. Jamil
Published: December 2024

Ali Kuşçu (ö. 879/1474) Nasîrüddîn Tûsî’nin Tecrîdü’l-i‘tikâd’ına yazdığı şerhte birkaç radikal tutum sergilemiştir. Dikkate değer argümanlarından biri, astronominin Aristotelesçi doğa felsefesine ihtiyaç duymadığı yönündeki ısrarıdır. Bu duruşu ve Arz’ın sükûnette olduğuna dair geçerli ampirik kanıtlar olmadığı konusunda Tûsî ile hemfikir olması sebebiyle Kuşçu, dönen Arz varsayımından “aldatıcı hiçbir sonuç çıkmaz” sonucuna varmıştır. Bir sonraki nesilden Abdülalî el-Bircendî (913/1507’de etkin), hem Aristotelesçi doğa felsefesinin reddi hem de Arz’ın sükûn durumunun ispatlanamazlığı konusunda Kuşçu’yu çürütmeye niyetliydi. Bircendî bunu yapmak için, Tûsî’nin et-Tezkire fî ilmi’l-hey’e adlı eserine yazdığı şerhte, astronomi ile iştigal edenler için Aristotelesçi doğa felsefesi ve metafiziğin gerekliliğine dair güçlü bir savunma takdim eder. Bunu yaparken Tûsî’nin, ampirik kanıtlar eksik olduğu için doğa felsefesi kullanılarak Arz’ın hareketsizliğinin savunulabilir biçimde kanıtlanabileceği, şeklindeki görüşünü teyit etmektedir. Bircendî’nin uzun tartışması epey ikna edicidir ve Arz’ın gerçekten dönüyor olması durumunda “dairesel eylemsizlik” olarak adlandırılabilecek teklifi de dahil olmak üzere bir dizi ilginç fikir içerir.
Adududdin el-Îcî ve Ali Kuşçu Tartışması: Ontoloji Tartışması Kipler Mantığının Bir Devamı mıdır?
Authors: Türker Ömer
Published: December 2024

Adududdin el-Îcî, el-Mevâkıf adlı eserinde kelamın umûr-ı âmme bahsinde incelenen zorunluluk, imkân ve imkânsızlık kavramlarının mantığın kipli önermeler bahsinde ele alınan zorunluluk, imkân ve imkânsızlık olmadığını iddia eder. Gerek Seyfeddin Ebherî, Cürcânî, Hasan Çelebi gibi el-Mevâkıf’ın şârih ve muhaşşileri gerek Tecrîd geleneğinin meşhur muhaşşileri gerekse Şerhu’l-Makâsıd yazarı Teftâzânî, Îcî’nin iddiasını eleştirmektedir. Ali Kuşçu da eleştirilere katılır ve bilhassa Teftâzânî’nin Şerhu’l-Makâsıd’daki cümlelerinin bir kısmını yeniden dile getirir. Makalenin ilk yarısında bu eleştirilerin tarihsel sıralamaya riayet eden sistemli bir sunumu yapılmakta, ikinci yarısında ise şeklen isabetli görünen eleştirilerin gerçekte isabetli olmadıkları iddiası, varlık-mahiyet ve zorunlumümkün ayrımlarının ima ve sonuçlarına dikkat çekilerek temellendirilmektedir. Buna göre müteahhirûn dönemi düşünürleri neredeyse görüş birliğiyle Îcî’yi eleştirmektedir. Bunun sebebi, müteahhirûn dönemi düşünürlerinin varlık-mahiyet ve zorunlu-mümkün ayrımlarından sonra varlık kavramından kökten bir şekilde ayrışan sübut kavramını yeni anlamıyla kullandıkları halde tanımını yenilememiş olmalarıdır. Îcî’nin sözlerini yeni dönemin sözü edilen duyarlılığını dile getiren ve ontoloji araştırmalarının yeni karakterinin farklılığını ifşa eden bir uyarı olarak anlamak daha isabetlidir.
Bedenden Başkalık (Mugâyeret) ve Bedenden Soyutluk (Tecerrüd ) Arasında İnsanî Nefsin Konumu: Ali Kuşçu Örneği
Authors: Tiryaki Mehmet Zahit
Published: December 2024

Antik-Helenistik dönem ve orta çağlar boyunca nefsin doğasıyla ilgili tartışma konularından birisi nefsin bedene ve bedensel unsurlara indirgenip indirgenemeyeceği hakkındadır. Bu tartışma modern ve çağdaş dönemlere gelindiğinde zihnin bedene indirgenip indirgenemeyeceği tartışmasına dönüşür. Söz konusu tartışma İslam felsefe ve kelamının klasik ve klasik sonrası dönemlerinde de takip edilebilir bir niteliktedir. İslam filozofları büyük oranda gayrı maddi ve gayrı cismani soyut bir töz olarak nefs ile maddi ve cismani somut bir töz olarak beden arasında ayrım yaparak Kartezyen bir formda olmasa da töz düalizmini savunmuşlar ve hem nefs ile bedenin birbirinden başkalığını hem de nefsin soyut bir töz olduğunu iddia etmişlerdir. Buna karşılık özellikle klasik sonrası dönemdeki bazı kelamcılar nefsin bedenden başkalığı noktasında filozoflarla hemfikir olmakla birlikte nefsin bedenden soyutluğu noktasında filozoflardan farklı bir görüş benimsemişler ve nefsin soyut bir cevher olduğuna yönelik felsefi delilleri eleştirmişlerdir. Ali Kuşçu da büyük oranda kendisinden önce özellikle Fahreddin Râzî’de gördüğümüz kelamcı tutumu yansıtacak şekilde hem nefsin bedenden başkalığına vurgu yapmış ve bu doğrultudaki argümanları desteklemiş hem de nefsin soyut bir töz olduğuna yönelik argümanları eleştirmiştir. Bu çalışmada nefsin bedenden başkalığı ile nefsin bedenden soyutluğu arasındaki ayrışma Ali Kuşçu örneği üzerinden incelenecektir. Ali Kuşçu’nun Antik-Helenistik dönemden Orta Çağ’a, İslâm felsefe ve kelamının klasik ve klasik sonrası dönemlerinden modern ve çağdaş döneme kadar takip edilebilen bu tartışmadaki konumu tespit edilmeye çalışılacaktır.
Efficacy of 4-dimensional hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography and X-ray hysterosalpingography in infertility
Authors: Wu Meili , Gu Xue , Hao Juan , Miao Ruichao
Published: December 2024

Objective: To assess and compare efficacy of 4-dimensional hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography (4D-HyCoSy) and X-ray hysterosalpingography (HSG) for fallopian tube examination.
Methods: Clinical data of patients with suspected tubal infertility, who underwent examinations in Qingdao Women and Children’s Hospital from September 2021 to December 2023, were retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 40 patients received laparoscopy and dye test+ 4D-HyCoSy (4D-HyCoSy group), and 36 patients received laparoscopy and dye test +HSG (HSG group).
Results: The study included clinical data of 76 patients with a total of 149 fallopian tubes. Using laparoscopy and dye test observations as the gold standard, 4D-HyCoSy and X-HSG examinations identified 39 blocked tubes, 69 tubes with partial patency, and 41 tubes with patency. Compared with laparoscopy and dye test, the diagnostic concordance rate of 4D-HyCoSy was 70.51% (55/78), Kappa=0.546 (P<0.05); and the diagnostic concordance rate of HSG was 69.01% (49/71), Kappa=0.516 (P<0.05). Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the diagnosis of obstruction, partial patency, and patency were comparable in the two groups (P>0.05). The incidence of pain and adverse reactions were significantly lower in the 4D-HyCoSy group compared to the HSG group (P<0.05).
Conclusions: While both 4D-HyCoSy and HSG have high efficacy in fallopian tube examination, and are similarly accurate in evaluating tubal blockage, 4D-HyCoSy is associated with lower incidence of pain, and reduced rate of adverse reactions.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.10743
How to cite this: Wu M, Gu X, Hao J, Miao R. Efficacy of 4-dimensional hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography and X-ray hysterosalpingography in infertility. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):151-156. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.10743
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Examining factor structure and psychometric properties of Ethical Leadership Questionnaire with Healthcare Professionals in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aldhmadi Badr K. , Kumar Rakesh , Perera Bilesha , Algarni Mohammad
Published: December 2024

Objective: The study aimed to examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of ethical leadership questionnaire (ELQ) by using a healthcare professional sample in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and a total of 387 healthcare professionals completed the 15-items ELQ questionnaire between 18 October, 2023 and 17 January, 2024. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and a reliability test were performed on the obtained data.
Results: It was found that the ELQ involved four factors including honesty (four items), integrity (four items), sets example (three items), and concern for values (four items). The study was able to explain 74.14% of the total variance. The model comparative fit index (CFI) was 0.952, the goodness-of-fit index (GFI) was 0.915, the standardized root mean squared residual (SRMR) was 0.0536, and the root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) was 0.076. The reliability value was obtained by using Cronbach’s alpha, and the results of each subscale were higher than 0.80, which means they were deemed adequate and reliable. The results from these fit indices indicated that the four-factor model with EC offered the utmost fit.
Conclusion: The ELQ is a reliable and valid instrument that can be used on this population to determine employees’ perceptions of their leaders’ ethical behavior.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.10861
How to cite this: Aldhmadi BK, Kumar R, Perera B, Algarni MA. Examining factor structure and psychometric properties of Ethical Leadership Questionnaire with Healthcare Professionals in Saudi Arabia. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):101-106.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.10861
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Efficacy of the nutritional support team model in the management of patients undergoing total gastrectomy combined with Roux-en-Y anastomosis
Authors: Su Wenmian , Yang Yang , Wang Qian , Zhang Wanqiong
Published: December 2024

Objective: To explore the efficacy of the nutritional support team (NST) management model in patients undergoing total gastrectomy combined with Roux-en-Y anastomosis.
Methods: Clinical data of 102 patients who underwent total gastrectomy combined with Roux-en-Y anastomosis in Xingtai Central Hospital from January 2020 to October 2023 were retrospectively collected. Of 102 patients, 53 received the NST model of management (NST group), while 49 were managed by the conventional nutritional support (TN group). The nutritional and immune function status of the two groups before and seven days after the surgery, postoperative rehabilitation status, and the incidence of complications were compared.
Results: After the surgery, levels of albumin and total protein in both groups increased compared to before the surgery and were significantly higher in the NST group compared to the TN group (P<0.05). Levels of CD3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+ in the two groups increased compared to preoperative levels and were significantly higher than the TN group compared to the NST group. In contrast, postoperative CD8+ levels decreased and were significantly lower in the NST group (P<0.05). The duration of anal exhaust, defecation, and hospitalization in the NST group of patients was shorter (P<0.05), but no significance was found in the incidence of complications between the two groups (3.78% versus 16.33%) (P>0.05).
Conclusions: For patients undergoing total gastrectomy combined with Roux-en-Y anastomosis, the NST nutritional management model can effectively improve nutritional status, enhance immune function, shorten the postoperative recovery process, and the incidence of complications is equivalent to that of patients receiving conventional nutritional support.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.11112
How to cite this: Su W, Yang Y, Wang Q, Zhang W. Efficacy of the nutritional support team model in the management of patients undergoing total gastrectomy combined with Roux-en-Y anastomosis. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):141-146. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.11112
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Effect of COVID-19 pandemic on well child follow-up visits and vaccination: A Single unit experience from Turkey
Authors: Tosyali Merve , Koc Feyza
Published: December 2024

Objective: The aim of the study was to examine the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on frequency of well-child follow-up visits and immunization rate in Turkish tertiary reference hospital’s Well-Child Care Outpatient Clinic.
Methods: Children aged one month to 18 years who presented to the Well Child Care Outpatient Clinic of a tertiary referral hospital in Turkey for child health follow-up and immunisation were included in the study. Children with chronic diseases or children who needed to be immunised with a different scheme due to their special conditions were not included. In our cross-sectional study, the cases were categorised into two distinct groups based on application dates; those who applied between September 1, 2018, and March 1, 2020, were assessed during the pre-pandemic period, while those who applied between March 11, 2020, and November 1, 2021, were assessed during the pandemic period. The pandemic and pre-pandemic numbers of children admitted to our clinic, their sociodemographic characteristics, and immunizations were compared.
Results: The pre-pandemic number of children admitted for child health follow-up was 9368; the pandemic number was 3830. In the pandemic, 21.8% of children were vaccinated. Although the number of children admitted to our clinic decreased during the pandemic period, vaccination rates increased significantly (p = 0.0036).
Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare. In addition to the effects that emerged during the pandemic period, it is predicted that there will be many reflections in the post-pandemic period, especially affecting the vulnerable population. Although our study was conducted in a single centre, it is of great importance in terms of revealing the efforts made by healthcare workers in the field of child health follow-up and vaccination during the pandemic period and emphasising that primary healthcare services should continue.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9689
How to cite this: Tosyali M, Koc F. Effect of COVID-19 pandemic on well child follow-up visits and vaccination: A Single unit experience from Turkey. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):90-95. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9689
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
A guide to selecting high-performing antibodies for VAPB (UniProt ID: O95292) for use in western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence
Authors: González Bolívar Sara , Ayoubi Riham , Alende Charles , Fothouhi Maryam , Shlaifer Irina , McPherson Peter S. , Laflamme Carl ,   NeuroSGC/YCharOS/EDDU collaborative group,   ABIF consortium
Published: December 2024

VAPB is an adaptor protein known for its role as an anchor for other proteins at the endoplasmic reticulum. A mutant form of VAPB has been linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and the underlying mechanisms resulting from this defect are studied by researchers in this area to uncover its implication in the disease. Here we have characterized six VAPB commercial antibodies for western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. These studies are part of a larger, collaborative initiative seeking to address antibody reproducibility issues by characterizing commercially available antibodies for human proteins and publishing the results openly as a resource for the scientific community. While use of antibodies and protocols vary between laboratories, we encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibodies for their specific needs.
Strategies for recruitment of adolescent girls into physical activity programmes: a systematic review protocol
Authors: O'Brien Tanya , Darker Catherine D , Mockler David , Barrett Emer M
Published: December 2024

Background Physical activity is essential for youth physical and mental health, yet just 15% of adolescent girls versus 22% of adolescent boys worldwide meet the World Health Organization guideline of at least an average of 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day. As activity patterns established in adolescence often persist into adulthood, there is a looming risk of adverse health outcomes due to insufficient physical activity. A persistent challenge faced by physical activity providers, however, is recruiting adolescent girls into their programmes. This systematic review will quantitatively synthesise existing knowledge surrounding the recruitment of adolescent girls into physical activity interventions and aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for optimal recruitment practices. Methods Five electronic databases will be searched to identify randomised controlled trials of physical activity interventions for adolescent girls worldwide. Hand-searches of reference lists of included randomised controlled trials, relevant systematic reviews, and author publications will also be conducted. Data will be extracted regarding study, participant, and intervention characteristics, pre-determined recruitment goals, recruitment strategies employed, and the number of participants screened, eligible, approached, randomised, and retained. Outcomes will include whether pre-determined recruitment goals were met, recruitment rate, and any adapted or extended recruitment measures required mid-study. Descriptive statistics, including the median recruitment rate for all included studies, will be calculated and stratified by subgroups such as the type or setting of physical activity. Recruitment strategies will be categorised, and the percentage of studies using each category, along with their associated recruitment rates, will be documented. If sufficient studies are found, multi-variable regression will be employed to determine if the use of a specific recruitment strategy increases enrolment. Discussion Application of the findings of this review by physical activity programme providers may enhance their recruitment processes, potentially increasing teenage girls’ physical activity enrolment worldwide. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD#42023475858
A biobank resource for placental malaria and placental health research
Authors: Mbalitsi Melvin , Singoei Mercy , Chenge Samuel , Ngure Harrison M. , Angienda Paul O. , Obimbo Moses Madadi , Kanoi Bernard N. , Gitaka Jesse , Kobia Francis M.
Published: December 2024

Background Malaria during pregnancy is a serious threat to maternal and child health in malaria-endemic regions. Malaria during pregnancy often leads to placental malaria, which has severely detrimental effects on fetal outcomes, including fetal growth restriction, preterm delivery, and stillbirth. However, the mechanisms by which placental malaria causes adverse outcomes remain poorly understood. Crucially, there are no tools for detecting and/or intervening in placental malaria during pregnancy. This is mainly because the placenta is inaccessible to research during pregnancy. Nonetheless, its accessibility after delivery offers unique opportunities for studying placental diseases. To support such research, collecting and biobanking naturally-infected placental samples in the geographical context in which diseases of interest occur is crucial. Methods Here, we describe the establishment of a biobank of samples obtained from a malaria-endemic region of Kenya, which aims to enhance research capacity in this important but under-studied health challenge. Histology, PCR, and isothermal identical multirepeat sequence PCR were used to determine the placental malaria status of biobank samples. Results Our biobank characterization indicates that placental malaria affects most pregnancies in the malaria-endemic region, despite mothers being asymptomatic during pregnancy and having received anti-malaria chemoprophylaxis. Of the techniques used to detect placental malaria, isothermal identical multirepeat sequence PCR detected the highest number of placental malaria-positive samples (54.2%), compared with placental histology (37.3%), and placenta tissue PCR (17%). However, results from the various techniques did not overlap fully. Conclusion Our observations highlight the need to rigorously characterize placental samples from malaria-endemic regions, including by using multiple complementary techniques, even in cases of undetectable malaria during pregnancy. It may also be beneficial to obtain samples from non-malaria-endemic regions for use as placental malaria-naïve controls.
SCAPE-APA: a package for estimating alternative polyadenylation events from scRNA-seq data
Authors: Cheng Guangzhao , Le Tien , Zhou Ran , Cheng Lu
Published: December 2024

SCAPE was a package that was previously developed to estimate alternative polyadenylation events from single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) data. It was composed of ad-hoc python scripts and has speed issues when handling large scRNA-seq data. To suit the needs of analyzing large scRNA-seq datasets, we present SCAPE-APA, which is a reimplementation of SCAPE with substantial changes. We made the following updates to the package: (1) we binned similar reads together to accelerate the estimation; (2) we re-derived the mixture model to tailor it for binned reads; (3) we implemented the inference algorithm using Taichi language for acceleration; (4) we re-implemented the untranslated region (UTR) annotation extraction script using the professional package gffutils for better maintenance; (5) we wrote a script to detect spurious alternative polyadenylation sites generated due to junction reads, and (6) we created a formal Python package and uploaded it to the Python Package Index website (Pypi).
Isolated central nervous system relapse in blast crisis of chronic myeloid leukemia: a case report
Authors: Raghvan Hari Priya , Ling Caroline Ho Siew , Yui Wee Shiang , Liang Boo Yang , Jamian Ehram , Subbiah Indhira
Published: December 2024

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) typically progresses from a chronic phase to an accelerated phase, and eventually to a blast crisis, often involving the bone marrow and peripheral blood, if left untreated. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is an uncommon manifestation of CML, particularly as an isolated CNS relapse. Here, we present a rare case of CML in lymphoid blast crisis with an isolated CNS relapse. A 46-year-old female with underlying CML in lymphoid blast crisis, previously treated with chemotherapy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, presented with visual disturbances. Imaging and cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed leukemic infiltration of the CNS without evidence of a systemic disease. Isolated CNS involvement is an atypical complication of CML and presents significant therapeutic challenges owing to the blood-brain barrier, which limits the efficacy of systemic therapies. Subsequently, the patient was treated with intrathecal chemotherapy targeting the CNS. Despite aggressive treatment, CNS relapse remains a major concern due to the limited penetration of standard therapies into the CNS. This case underscores the importance of early recognition of CNS symptoms in CML patients, particularly in those with blast crisis, and highlights the need for tailored therapeutic strategies to manage this rare and challenging manifestation.
Complete or incomplete revascularization in patients with left main culprit lesion acute myocardial infarction with multivessel disease: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Kim Sun Oh , Kim Hong-Ju , Park Jong-Il , Choi Kang-Un , Nam Jong-Ho , Lee Chan-Hee , Son Jang-Won , Park Jong-Seon , Her Sung-Ho , Chang Ki-Yuk , Ahn Tae-Hoon , Jeong Myung-Ho , Rha Seung-Woon , Kim Hyo-Soo , Gwon Hyeon-Cheol , Seong In-Whan , Hwang Kyung-Kuk , Hur Seung-Ho , Cha Kwang-Soo , Oh Seok-Kyu , Chae Jei-Keon , Kim Ung
Published: December 2024

Background: Complete revascularization has demonstrated better outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and multivessel disease. However, in the case of left main (LM) culprit lesion AMI with multivessel disease, there is limited evidence to suggest that complete revascularization is better.Methods: We reviewed 16,831 patients in the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry who were treated from July 2016 to June 2020, and 399 patients were enrolled with LM culprit lesion AMI treated with percutaneous coronary intervention. We categorized the patients as those treated with complete revascularization (n=295) or incomplete revascularization (n=104). The study endpoint was major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), a composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, ischemia-driven revascularization, stent thrombosis, and stroke. We performed propensity score matching (PSM) and analyzed the incidence of MACCE at 1 year.Results: After PSM, the two groups were well balanced. There was no significant difference between the two groups in MACCE at 1 year (12.1% vs. 15.2%; hazard ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 0.60–2.74; p=0.524) after PSM. The components of MACCE and major bleeding were also not significantly different.Conclusion: There was no significant difference in clinical outcomes between the groups treated with complete or incomplete revascularization for LM culprit lesion AMI with multivessel disease.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE EFFECT OF REGENERATION STIMULATION DRUG ON THE STRUCTURE AND RATE OF HAIR GROWTH IN WHITE RATS
Authors: Zhdanova Olga B. , Okulova Iraida I. , Dunaeva Elena B. , Chasovskikh Olga V.
Published: December 2024

Background. The study of the activation process of hair papilla stem cells when using regeneration stimulators to improve the structure of the hair and its growth rate is relevant both for the development of drugs for fur farming and alopecia treatment regimens. In this study, an attempt was made to stimulate stem cells in the hair papilla and improve the quality of hair.
The aim of the study was a comparative study of the effect of oral and percutaneous forms of melatonin and lyotritone on changes in the growth rate and structure of hair in white laboratory rats.
Materials and methods. Comparative studies of regeneration stimulation and melatonin preparations were carried out in dynamics. Experimental groups were formed to conduct the experiment: wool was removed from the animals and oral administration and coating of the shaved area of the PSR was carried out; the next group received synthetic melatonin with electromagnetic treatment similar to the previous one; the control group received distilled water. The observation was carried out for a month, then the animals were removed from the experiment in accordance with the "Rules for carrying out work using experimental animals" and in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration of the World Medical Association (Declaration of Helsinki, and approved by the Institutional Review Board). For histological studies, tissue fragments from the area with the hair removed and hair from several areas of the animal's body were used. Paraffin histological sections 5-7 microns thick were made and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The objects of the study were microscopized at magnification x20 and x80, with the production of photographs (Vision Bio, 2014). The data obtained were processed using standard MS Excel and Statgraphics software packages.
Research results. On the first day after hair removal, redness of these areas was noted, but there was no bleeding. Hair measurements carried out in dynamics showed that in the experimental groups hair growth was accelerated, and the epidermis layer was also better expressed. In the study of hair in the control group, it was found that growth was slowed down in animals that did not receive drugs, in addition, the quality of hair is worse than in the experimental groups.
Conclusion. In the course of the conducted studies, it was found that the drinking of melatonin and RS by laboratory animals with percutaneous application, daily for 21 days improves the structure of the hair, its quality and accelerates growth. It was found that when the RS is soldered, the recovery time of the coat significantly decreases by a factor compared to the control group.
ANXIETY FACTOR IN ADOLESCENTS OF DIFFERENT POPULATION GROUPS OF SIBERIA WITH ALEXITHYMIA
Authors: Zaitseva Olga I. , Kolodyazhnaya Tatyana A. , Zaitseva Zhanna G.
Published: December 2024

Data on the relationship between anxiety and alexithymia in adolescents from different population groups in Siberia are scarce and fragmentary.
Purpose.  To  study the factor of “anxiety” in adolescents of different population groups in Siberia with alexithymia, taking into account age and gender, ethnic origin and regional characteristics, and to establish relationships.
Materials and methods. Interviewing adolescents aged 11-18 years using the Toronto Alexithymic Scale (TAS-26) and the “Reactive and Personal Anxiety Scale” by Ch.D. Spielberger – Yu.L. Hanina.
Results. Among adolescents of different population groups in Siberia, the frequency of alexithymia in Khakass adolescents is 1.6 times higher in comparison with Caucasian adolescents of the Republic of Khakassia (RKh). Teenagers in Krasnoyarsk occupy an intermediate position. A characteristic sign of alexithymia in adolescents is a high level of anxiety, as evidenced by positive correlations between alexithymia and situational (r=0,47; p<0,001) and personal anxiety (r=0,56; p<0,001). Among all Caucasian adolescents with alexithymia, high situational anxiety is registered 2 times more often in Caucasian adolescents RKH. In terms of the development of a highly anxious alexithymic personality, girls are vulnerable, and by age - older teenagers.
Conclusion. Identification of highly anxious alexithymic individuals among practically healthy adolescents is necessary for the timely implementation of preventive measures of a psychological, pedagogical and medical plan, which will reduce the risk of psychosomatic disorders and deviant behavior.
РОЛЬ МИНЕРАЛЬНОГО УДОБРЕНИЯ В АДАПТАЦИИ РАДИОАКТИВНО ЗАГРЯЗНЕННЫХ СЕНОКОСОВ ДЛЯ КОРМОПРОИЗВОДСТВА
Authors: Silaev Andrey L. , Belous Nikolay M. , Smolsky Evgeny V.
Published: December 2024

Актуальность. Исследование защитных мероприятий позволяющих вернуть выбывшие в результате последствий аварии на ЧАЭС земли в сельскохозяйственное производство, в частности в кормопроизводство, весьма актуально.
Методы и средства. В период с 2014 по 2021 годы на территории центральной поймы (заливной луг) реки Ипуть Новозыбковского района Брянской области при плотности загрязнения 137Cs 555-867 кБк/м2 провели исследования в целью определения роли минерального удобрения в адаптации радиоактивно загрязненных сенокосов для кормопроизводства, определяли удельную активность 137Cs воздушно-сухой массы естественного травостоя, рассчитывали переход 137Cs по трофической цепи.
Результаты. Установили, что использовать пойменные луга при плотности загрязнения 137Cs свыше 555 кБк/м2 в качестве сенокосов в условиях юго-запада Брянской области недопустимо, ДУ превышает норматив в более 5 раз, как в период первого, так и второго укосов. Максимальные значения удельной активности 137Cs воздушно-сухой массы естественного травостоя определяли в годы с минимальным выпадением осадков и коротким поёмным процессом, а минимальные в годы максимальным выпадением осадков и продолжительным поёмным процессом. Применение возрастающих доз фосфорно-калийного удобрения под первый укос и калийного удобрения под второй укос достоверно снижало удельную активность 137Cs воздушно-сухой массы естественного травостоя соответственно до 348 и 294 Бк/кг. При ведении кормопроизводства в условиях радиоактивного загрязнения необходимо понимать, что повышение урожайности естественного травостоя за счет повышения доз азотного удобрения приведет к увеличению накопления 137Cs в продукции кормопроизводства, калийное удобрения нивелирует данный отрицательный эффект. Выявили, что с увеличением соотношения калия к азоту в минеральном удобрении достоверно снижается удельная активность 137Cs воздушно-сухой массы естественного травостоя, как в период первого, так и второго укосов.
Заключение. Прошло 37 лет с момента аварии на Чернобыльской АЭС, прошел первый период полураспада 137Cs, однако результаты наших исследований показывают, что на заливных лугах юго-запада Брянской области при плотности загрязнения 137Cs территории более 555 кБк/м2 невозможно получать воздушно-сухую массу естественного травостоя с допустимым уровнем содержания 137Cs. Выявили, что калийные удобрения достоверно снижают удельную активность 137Cs воздушно-сухой массы естественного травостоя, а азотные удобрения ее повышали. При этом возрастающие дозы калийных удобрений снижали негативное действие азота.