bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ВІЙСЬКОВА ІСТОРІЯ МІЖВОЄННОЇ ЛИТВИ (1918–1940) У СВІТЛІ НАУКОВИХ ДОСЛІДЖЕНЬ ВЧЕНИХ КЛАЙПЕДСЬКОГО УНІВЕРСИТЕТУ
Authors: Петрик Артем Миколайович
Published: April 2024

У статті висвітлюється стан і перспективи подальшої наукової розробки військово-історичної проблематики, дотичної до періоду існування міжвоєнної Литовської держави, вченими Інституту історії та археології Балтійського регіону Клайпедського університету (КУ). Дана публікація не минає загально-литовського контексту, включаючи ретроспективу попередніх військово-історичних студій у Литві від зародження до сьогодення. Визначаються основні етапи становлення військової складової історичних досліджень у КУ. Аналізується доробок науково-дослідницької групи «Війна і суспільство ХХ століття» через призму реалізації проєктної діяльності та поза нею. Загалом підкреслюється, що перелік складових композиту військово-історичних студій міжвоєнного періоду вельми широкий: історія окремих родів і видів військ, парамілітарні формування, організація, структура та озброєння регулярної армії, доктринальна складова, теорія військово-історичних досліджень і т.д. Вченими КУ керує прагнення атомізувати цільову тему, продемонструвати найдрібніші моменти кожного з фрагментів загальної мозаїки. Так, зокрема, серед піднятих питань внутрішній уклад життя військового підрозділу міжвоєнної доби (побутові стосунки військовослужбовців, повсякденна діяльність, свята і будні, традиції литовського вояцького побратимства, середовище існування, гігієна). Систематизація та актуалізація досвіду тієї епохи створює необхідні умови для його задіяння у формуванні сучасних збройних сил Литви, оновлення системи національної безпеки. У той же час залучення компаративістського підходу дає можливість фіксувати субрегіональний та регіональний контексти і створює додаткові вектори майбутніх досліджень.
ВОЛИНЬ ТА ВОЛИНЯНИ У МІЛІТАРНІЙ ПОЛІТИЦІ ДРУГОЇ РЕЧІ ПОСПОЛИТОЇ В 30-х РОКАХ ХХ СТОЛІТТЯ
Authors: Дем'янюк Олександр Йосипович
Published: April 2024

Розглянуто різноманітні аспекти залучення волинян як громадян Другої Речі Посполитої до строкової служби у Війську Польському, мобілізаційних заходах держави напередодні Другої світової війни. З’ясовано ставлення польського політичного та військового керівництва до місця проходження служби та роду військ для українців, у тому числі й волинян.  Визначено головні причини змін у ставленні до волинян-українців у польському війську наприкінці 30-х років ХХ століття.

Проаналізовано заходи керівництва Другої Речі Посполитої та командування Війська Польського щодо проведення фортифікаційних робіт на території Волинського воєводства під загрозою військової агресії радянських республік, подано відомості про створення фортифікаційних ліній оборони у воєводстві, визначено місце польських військових підрозділів в охороні східного кордону держави.

Наведено цитати зі спогадів учасників тих подій, які дозволяють ознайомитися з їхнім особистісним сприйняттям окремих складових місця Волині та волинян у мілітарних планах Другої Речі Посполитої в 30-х роках ХХ століття.
УКРАЇНСЬКИЙ ПАРТИЗАНСЬКИЙ РУХ ПІД ЧАС УКРАЇНСЬКО-ПОЛЬСЬКОГО ПРОТИСТОЯННЯ ЗА ГАЛИЧИНУ 1918 – 1920-х РОКІВ
Authors: Стецишин Олег Леонідович
Published: April 2024

Українсько-польський збройний конфлікт, що розпочався 1 листопада 1918 р. після проголошення Західноукраїнської держави, не тільки започаткував нову історію боротьби за українську державність, а й став каталізатором формування збройних сил молодої республіки. Галицьке військо стало на захист своєї держави. Одночасно з цим проти польських збройних формувань почали діяти українські партизанські і напівпартизанські відділи – як на лінії зіткнення, так і в запіллі в поляків. Ця стаття аналізує збройні виступи українського населення ЗУНР у 1918-1920 роках, вивчаються передумови виникнення українського партизанського руху, ставлення командування Галицької армії до діяльності таких загонів, що, як правило, діяли автономно і здебільшого не узгоджували свої дії з НКГА. Проводиться періодизація діяльності партизанських відділів, досліджуються причини, через які цей рух не став масовим.
Quality assessments of spring water available in various Districts of Azad Kashmir
Authors: Aslam Iram , Abid Hafiz Rizwan , Rahman Hafiz Ubaid Ur , Asghar Waqas , Khalid Nauman
Published: April 2024

The study was conducted to find out the health of spring water available in different districts of Azad Jammu Kashmir. A total of 8 districts (Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Poonch, Sudhanati, Jhelum Valley, Bagh, Neelum, and Haveli) were selected where spring water is available and people are using that water for drinking purposes. Physiochemical analysis and microbiological analysis were monitored by using standard methods (PSQCA and WHO). The physiochemical analysis of most samples revealed the range as per the standard of PSQCA and WHO. On the other hand, in microbiological analysis, total plate count, coliform, and E. coli were found higher in districts Bagh and Haveli. The results of the microbiological analysis may be influenced by contamination during sample collection or by environmental circumstances.
A hybrid brain-muscle-machine interface for stroke rehabilitation: Usability and functionality validation in a 2-week intensive intervention
Authors: Sarasola-Sanz Andrea , Ray Andreas M. , Insausti-Delgado Ainhoa , Irastorza-Landa Nerea , Mahmoud Wala Jaser , Brötz Doris , Bibián-Nogueras Carlos , Helmhold Florian , Zrenner Christoph , Ziemann Ulf , López-Larraz Eduardo , Ramos-Murguialday Ander
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The primary constraint of non-invasive brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) in stroke rehabilitation lies in the poor spatial resolution of motor intention related neural activity capture. To address this limitation, hybrid brain-muscle-machine interfaces (hBMIs) have been suggested as superior alternatives. These hybrid interfaces incorporate supplementary input data from muscle signals to enhance the accuracy, smoothness and dexterity of rehabilitation device control. Nevertheless, determining the distribution of control between the brain and muscles is a complex task, particularly when applied to exoskeletons with multiple degrees of freedom (DoFs). Here we present a feasibility, usability and functionality study of a bio-inspired hybrid brain-muscle machine interface to continuously control an upper limb exoskeleton with 7 DoFs.

Methods: The system implements a hierarchical control strategy that follows the biologically natural motor command pathway from the brain to the muscles. Additionally, it employs an innovative mirror myoelectric decoder, offering patients a reference model to assist them in relearning healthy muscle activation patterns during training. Furthermore, the multi-DoF exoskeleton enables the practice of coordinated arm and hand movements, which may facilitate the early use of the affected arm in daily life activities. In this pilot trial six chronic and severely paralyzed patients controlled the multi-DoF exoskeleton using their brain and muscle activity. The intervention consisted of 2 weeks of hBMI training of functional tasks with the system followed by physiotherapy. Patients’ feedback was collected during and after the trial by means of several feedback questionnaires. Assessment sessions comprised clinical scales and neurophysiological measurements, conducted prior to, immediately following the intervention, and at a 2-week follow-up.

Results: Patients’ feedback indicates a great adoption of the technology and their confidence in its rehabilitation potential. Half of the patients showed improvements in their arm function and 83% improved their hand function. Furthermore, we found improved patterns of muscle activation as well as increased motor evoked potentials after the intervention.

Discussion: This underscores the significant potential of bio-inspired interfaces that engage the entire nervous system, spanning from the brain to the muscles, for the rehabilitation of stroke patients, even those who are severely paralyzed and in the chronic phase.
A tool for assessing the sensitivity of soil-based approaches for quantifying enhanced weathering: a US case study
Authors: Suhrhoff Tim Jesper , Reershemius Tom , Wang Jiuyuan , Jordan Jacob S. , Reinhard Christopher T. , Planavsky Noah J.
Published: April 2024

Enhanced weathering (EW) of silicate rocks spread onto managed lands as agricultural amendments is a promising carbon dioxide removal (CDR) approach. However, there is an obvious need for the development of tools for Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) before EW can be brought to scale. Shifts in the concentration of mobile elements measured in the solid phase of soils after application of EW feedstocks can potentially be used to track weathering and provide an estimate of the initial carbon dioxide removal of the system. To measure feedstock dissolution accurately it is necessary to control for the amount of feedstock originally present in the sample being analyzed. This can be achieved by measuring the concentration of immobile detrital elements in soil samples after feedstock addition. However, the resolvability of a signal using a soil mass balance approach depends on analytical uncertainty, the ability to accurately sample soils, the amount of feedstock relative to the amount of initial soil in a sample, and on the fraction of feedstock that has dissolved. Here, we assess the viability of soil-based mass-balance approaches across different settings. Specifically, we define a metric for tracer-specific resolvability of feedstock mass addition (φ) and calculate the feedstock application rates (a) and dissolution fractions (b) required to resolve EW. Applying calculations of a, b, and φ to a gridded soil database from the contiguous USA in combination with known compositions of basalt and peridotite feedstocks demonstrates the importance of adequately capturing field heterogeneity in soil elemental concentrations. While EW signals should be resolvable after ~1–3 years of basalt feedstock addition at common application rates for most agricultural settings with adequate sampling protocols, resolving EW in the field is likely to be challenging if uncertainties in tracer concentrations derived from field-scale heterogeneity and analytical error exceed 10%. Building from this framework, we also present a simple tool for practitioners to use to assess the viability of carrying out soil-based EW MRV in a deployment-specific context.
Effect of orthostatic hypotension on long-term prognosis of elderly patients with stable coronary artery disease: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hu Jiaman , Chi Jianing , Cai Hua , Wu Ningxia , Li Pengfei , Huang Yuekang , Lin Cailong , Lai Yingying , Huang Jianyu , Li Weihua , Su Peng , Li Min , Lin Zhongqiu , Xu Lin
Published: April 2024

Background

The long-term prognosis of patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) combined with orthostatic hypotension (OH) has rarely been reported. This research was designed to examine whether OH increases the risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular death among patients with stable CAD.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed retired military personnel over 65 years of age who were hospitalized at the General Hospital of Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army between March and July 2010. A total of 924 patients with stable CAD were included, among whom 263 had OH. The risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular death in OH and non-OH groups were analyzed with the Cox proportional hazards models, and restricted cubic spline plots were utilized for subgroup analyses. Furthermore, competing risk models were applied for sensitivity analyses.

Results

The median age of the patients was 82.00 (80.00–85.00) years. Over 159 months of follow-up, the loss to follow-up rate was 2.27%, and all-cause mortality was observed in 574 (63.57%) patients, including 184 with OH. Moreover, cardiovascular death occurred in 127 patients (13.73%), with 58 cases associated with OH. Although the relationship between OH and all-cause mortality was non-significant [body mass index (BMI) < 25 group, adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 1.10 with a 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.82–1.40; BMI ≥ 25 group, adjusted HR = 1.30, 95% CI: 0.98–1.70], it was independently related to a growing risk of cardiovascular death (adjusted HR = 1.80, 95% CI: 1.20–2.60). This finding was further validated by using a competing risk model (subdistribution HR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.22–2.49). Moreover, age, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and frequency of hospital admissions were identified as risk factors of cardiovascular death among patients with OH (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study, based on retired military personnel with stable CAD, found that OH led to a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular death, but it was not noticeably associated with all-cause mortality on long-term prognosis.
A game-based learning approach to sleep hygiene education: a pilot investigation
Authors: Seaver Christine , Bowers Clint , Beidel Deborah , Holt Lisa , Ramakrishnan Sridhar
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Sleep hygiene education (SHE) consists of environmental and behavioral practices primarily intended to reduce sleep problems. Currently considered ineffective as a stand-alone treatment, the manner in which the education is typically delivered may be ineffective for the acquisition of new knowledge. The purpose of this study was to determine if a more engaging teaching medium may improve the efficacy of sleep hygiene education. This study examined the use of game-based learning to teach SHE to individuals with sleep problems.

Methods

35 participants played the SHE games for 30 days. Differences in pre- and post-state anxiety and sleep quality measures were examined.

Results

Participants had significant improvements in sleep quality and state anxiety after using the app for 30 days, although scores for the majority of patients remained elevated.

Discussion

This pilot investigation provides initial evidence for the efficacy of a game-based approach to SHE.
Serum cystatin C and stroke risk: a national cohort and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Qi Yitian , Shang Xinyun , Han Tianjiao , Han Ning , Jiang Ziwei , Yan Han , Yue Siqi , Sun Qichao , Liu Lin , Cui Cancan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The debate over the causal and longitudinal association between cystatin C and stroke in older adults persists. Our aim was to assess the link between cystatin C levels, both measured and genetically predicted, and stroke risk.

Methods

This study employed a retrospective cohort design using samples of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), which is a nationally representative cohort recruiting individuals aged 45 years or above. A multivariate logistic model and the two-sample Mendelian randomization framework were used to investigate the longitudinal and genetically predicted effect of serum cystatin C on stroke.

Results

The study population had a mean age of 59.6 (SD ±9.5), with 2,996 (46.1%) women. After adjusting for confounding factors, compared to those in the first quartile of cystatin C, those in the last quartile had the greatest risk of stroke incidence [odds ratio (OR), 1.380; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.046–1.825]. The Mendelian randomization analysis showed that a genetically predicted cystatin C level was positively associated with total stroke (OR by inverse variance-weighted method, 1.114; 95% CI, 1.041–1.192).

Conclusions

This national cohort study suggests that higher serum cystatin C is associated with an increased risk of total stroke, which is further supported by Mendelian randomization.
Study on settling characteristics of rock cuttings from terrestrial high clay shale in power-law fluid
Authors: Wang Qing , Zhang Jiawei , Bi Chenguang , Liu Xiaoao , Ji Guodong , Yu Jinping
Published: April 2024

In the process of oil and gas drilling, it is of great significance to accurately predict the drag coefficient and settling rate of cuttings in the drilling fluid for hydraulic parameters and borehole cleaning. In this paper, particle settling experiments were used to obtain the final settling velocity of 196 groups of spherical particles and 224 groups of terrestrial high-clay pure-shale cuttings in the power-law fluid. Based on data analysis, a settlement drag coefficient model suitable for irregular-shaped shale cuttings was established. The model can be used to predict the settlement drag coefficient and settling velocity of irregular-shaped shale cuttings in power-law fluid, which can provide theoretical guidance for wellbore cleaning and hydraulic parameter optimization in Daqing Gulong shale oil drilling operations.
Exploring TSPAN4 promoter methylation as a diagnostic biomarker for tuberculosis
Authors: Zhang Jiahao , Chen Jilong , Zhang Yan , Chen Liuchi , Mo Weiwei , Yang Qianting , Zhang Mingxia , Liu Haiying
Published: April 2024

Background:

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), is a persistent infectious disease threatening human health. The existing diagnostic methods still have significant shortcomings, including a low positivity rate in pathogen-based diagnoses and the inability of immunological diagnostics to detect active TB. Hence, it is urgent to develop new techniques to detect TB more accurate and earlier. This research aims to scrutinize and authenticate DNA methylation markers suitable for tuberculosis diagnosis. Concurrently, Providing a new approach for tuberculosis diagnosis.

Methods:

Blood samples from patients with newly diagnosed tuberculosis and healthy controls (HC) were utilized in this study. Examining methylation microarray data from 40 whole blood samples (22TB + 18HC), we employed two procedures: signature gene methylated position analysis and signature region methylated position analysis to pinpoint distinctive methylated positions. Based on the screening results, diagnostic classifiers are constructed through machine learning, and validation was conducted through pyrosequencing in a separate queue (22TB + 18HC). Culminating in the development of a new tuberculosis diagnostic method via quantitative real-time methylation specific PCR (qMSP).

Results:

The combination of the two procedures revealed a total of 10 methylated positions, all of which were located in the promoter region. These 10 signature methylated positions facilitated the construction of a diagnostic classifier, exhibiting robust diagnostic accuracy in both cross-validation and external test sets. The LDA model demonstrated the best classification performance, achieving an AUC of 0.83, specificity of 0.8, and sensitivity of 0.86 on the external test set. Furthermore, the validation of signature methylated positions through pyrosequencing demonstrated high agreement with screening outcomes. Additionally, qMSP detection of 2 potential hypomethylated positions (cg04552852 and cg12464638) exhibited promising results, yielding an AUC of 0.794, specificity of 0.720, and sensitivity of 0.816.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrates that the validated signature methylated positions through pyrosequencing emerge as plausible biomarkers for tuberculosis diagnosis. The specific methylation markers in the TSPAN4 gene, identified in whole blood samples, hold promise for improving tuberculosis diagnosis. This approach could significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy and speed, offering a new avenue for early detection and treatment.
Exploring aryl hydrocarbon receptor expression and distribution in the tumor microenvironment, with a focus on immune cells, in various solid cancer types
Authors: Kim Dong Kwon , Lee Chai Young , Han Yu Jin , Park So Young , Han Heekyung , Na Kwangmin , Kim Mi Hyun , Yang Seung Min , Baek Sujeong , Kim Youngtaek , Hwang Joon Yeon , Lee Seul , Kang Seong-san , Hong Min Hee , Lim Sun Min , Lee Jii Bum , Kim Jae Hwan , Cho Byoung Chul , Pyo Kyoung-Ho
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a transcription factor that performs various functions upon ligand activation. Several studies have explored the role of AhR expression in tumor progression and immune surveillance. Nevertheless, investigations on the distribution of AhR expression, specifically in cancer or immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), remain limited. Examining the AhR expression and distribution in the TME is crucial for gaining insights into the mechanism of action of AhR-targeting anticancer agents and their potential as biomarkers.

Methods

Here, we used multiplexed immunohistochemistry (mIHC) and image cytometry to investigate the AhR expression and distribution in 513 patient samples, of which 292 are patients with one of five solid cancer types. Additionally, we analyzed the nuclear and cytosolic distribution of AhR expression.

Results

Our findings reveal that AhR expression was primarily localized in cancer cells, followed by stromal T cells and macrophages. Furthermore, we observed a positive correlation between the nuclear and cytosolic expression of AhR, indicating that the expression of AhR as a biomarker is independent of its localization. Interestingly, the expression patterns of AhR were categorized into three clusters based on the cancer type, with high AhR expression levels being found in regulatory T cells (Tregs) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Discussion

These findings are anticipated to serve as pivotal evidence for the design of clinical trials and the analysis of the anticancer mechanisms of AhR-targeting therapies.
Mendelian randomization and transcriptome analysis identified immune-related biomarkers for osteoarthritis
Authors: Pang Wei-Wei , Cai Yi-Sheng , Cao Chong , Zhang Fu-Rong , Zeng Qin , Liu Dan-Yang , Wang Ning , Qu Xiao-Chao , Chen Xiang-Ding , Deng Hong-Wen , Tan Li-Jun
Published: April 2024

Background

The immune microenvironment assumes a significant role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). However, the current biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of OA are not satisfactory. Our study aims to identify new OA immune-related biomarkers to direct the prevention and treatment of OA using multi-omics data.

Methods

The discovery dataset integrated the GSE89408 and GSE143514 datasets to identify biomarkers that were significantly associated with the OA immune microenvironment through multiple machine learning methods and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). The identified signature genes were confirmed using two independent validation datasets. We also performed a two-sample mendelian randomization (MR) study to generate causal relationships between biomarkers and OA using OA genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary data (cases n = 24,955, controls n = 378,169). Inverse-variance weighting (IVW) method was used as the main method of causal estimates. Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness and reliability of the IVW results.

Results

Three signature genes (FCER1G, HLA-DMB, and HHLA-DPA1) associated with the OA immune microenvironment were identified as having good diagnostic performances, which can be used as biomarkers. MR results showed increased levels of FCER1G (OR = 1.118, 95% CI 1.031-1.212, P = 0.041), HLA-DMB (OR = 1.057, 95% CI 1.045 -1.069, P = 1.11E-21) and HLA-DPA1 (OR = 1.030, 95% CI 1.005-1.056, P = 0.017) were causally and positively associated with the risk of developing OA.

Conclusion

The present study identified the 3 potential immune-related biomarkers for OA, providing new perspectives for the prevention and treatment of OA. The MR study provides genetic support for the causal effects of the 3 biomarkers with OA and may provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms leading to the development of OA.
Advances in the study of polydopamine nanotechnology in central nervous system disorders
Authors: Ren Sijing , Xiao Xiangyu , Lv Jiahua , Lv Shaomin , Wang Xingchen , Liu Ruihan , Kong Qing-xia
Published: April 2024

Disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) constitute a significant global health concern at the moment. Most CNS disorders are characterized by severe neuronal damage with excessive production of reactive oxygen species, which induces high levels of oxidative stress and intense inflammatory responses in the affected tissues, thus aggravating disease pathology. Notably, the blood–brain barrier makes it difficult to deliver many drugs and biologics to the CNS, which creates great difficulties in the diagnosis and treatment of CNS disorders. Recent research on polydopamine nanotechnology has led to the discovery of many promising properties; it shows strong scavenging ability for reactive oxygen species, prevents activation of pro-inflammatory microglia, and its repair function can reduce brain damage and protect neurons. Moreover, polydopamine nanotechnology can improve the blood–brain barrier permeability of biologics and reduce their neurotoxicity. It is therefore a promising candidate in the treatment of CNS disorders associated with oxidative stress. In the present paper, we review the functionality of polydopamine nanotechnology as well as the potential and recent advances of polydopamine-based nanosystems in the diagnosis and treatment of various CNS disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, spinal cord injury, and glioma. Finally, we predict how polydopamine nanoparticles may guide future therapeutic strategies to address CNS disorders such as epilepsy, which currently have no cure.
Case literature analysis of Fournier’s gangrene caused by sodium-glucose protein-2 inhibitors
Authors: Liu Hailing
Published: April 2024

Objective

To analyze the clinical characteristics and correlation of Fournier’s gangrene induced by sodium-glucose cotransporter protein-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, providing references for safe clinical drug use.

Methods

The CNKI, WanFang, and PubMed databases were searched, and relevant documents were collected and statistically analyzed. The basic information of patients, drug use information, adverse reactions and outcomes were extracted and analyzed.

Results

A total of 12 patients (8 males and 4 females) were included, with an average age of 55.6 years (ranging from 34 to 72 years). SGLT-2 inhibitors associated with Fournier’s gangrene include empagliflozin (5 cases), dapagliflozin (5 cases), and canagliflozin (2 cases). Among them, 10 cases reported the time of first medication, ranging from 1 month to 6 years for the occurrence of adverse reactions. The most common concomitant drug was metformin (7 cases). Adverse reactions mainly manifested as redness, swelling and pain in the buttocks, perineum, perianal, scrotum and other positions, accompanied by an increased white blood cell count. Following surgery and antibiotic treatment, all patients showed improved.

Conclusion

Fournier’s gangrene induced by SGLT-2 inhibitors is rare. If patients using SGLT-2 inhibitors are suspected of having Fournier’s gangrene, it is recommended to discontinue the drugs immediately and initiate active treatment to ensure clinical safety.
Culturally sensitive patient-centered healthcare: a focus on health behavior modification in low and middle-income nations—insights from Indonesia
Authors: Cipta D. A , Andoko D. , Theja A. , Utama A. V. E. , Hendrik H. , William D. G. , Reina N. , Handoko M. T. , Lumbuun N.
Published: April 2024

Patient-centered, culturally sensitive healthcare acknowledges the profound impact of cultural beliefs on health behaviors and outcomes, particularly vital in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Within Indonesia, distinct cultural factors are pivotal in empowering patients, necessitating their integration into healthcare practices. For example, the cultural concept of gotong royong, emphasizing communal collaboration, presents an opportunity to foster community support networks among patients. Moreover, honoring familial ties and involving family members in decision-making enhances patient empowerment. Acknowledging and incorporating spiritual and religious beliefs, which are deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, into healthcare interventions further augments patient empowerment and well-being. In LMICs, including Indonesia, achieving patient empowerment demands implementing critical strategies. Community-based interventions harness local resources and engage the community to drive health behavior change. Culturally sensitive communication bridges the gap between healthcare providers and patients, respecting language nuances and cultural norms. Patient education fosters a comprehensive understanding of health conditions, thereby encouraging active involvement in decision-making. Tailored behavior modification techniques, aligned with cultural beliefs and practices, support the adoption of healthier behaviors among patients. This review emphasizes the pivotal role of patient-centered, culturally sensitive healthcare in LMICs, particularly in Indonesia. It delves into strategies to promote health behavior change within these unique contexts, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and patient-centered care. The discourse also explores the cultural landscape impacting healthcare, acknowledging the challenges faced in delivering comprehensive healthcare services within these diverse cultural contexts. Additionally, it outlines innovative approaches and success stories in implementing patient-centered care, highlighting how cultural factors intersect with healthcare outcomes. By advocating for integrating culture-specific patient empowerment practices into healthcare methodologies, this article underscores the potential for improved health outcomes, heightened patient engagement, and the delivery of culturally relevant services within LMICs.
Case report: Ureteric bud intestinal-type adenocarcinoma involving the cervix was misdiagnosed as a large cervical fibroid
Authors: Zhang Li-li , Wang Li , Zhang Dan-ni , Wu Jun-tong , Liu Yuan , Wang Yan-ping
Published: April 2024

Background

Malignant tumors of the ureteric bud are not common, and cervical involvement is even rarer. So far, there have been no such cases in the literature.

Case summary

A 50-year-old woman developed intermittent light bleeding in the past 7 months and lower abdominal pain in the past 2 months. The human papillomavirus 16 (HPV) DNA, P16 chemical staining, thinPrep cytology test (TCT), and cervical and cervical canal tissue biopsy were all negative. Pelvic color Doppler ultrasound exhibited incomplete mediastinal uterus and heterogeneous echo from the cervical canal to the posterior wall of the cervix. Pelvic contrast-enhanced CT showed left cervical mass, left retroperitoneal mass, absence of the left kidney, and mediastinal uterus. An increase in human epididymal protein 4 (HE4) (133.6 pmol/L) was detected, while other tumor markers were at normal levels. Based on these examination results, a diagnosis of “cervical fibroids, left retroperitoneal mass, incomplete mediastinal uterus, left kidney deficiency”[SIC] was conducted, and expanded hysterectomy, right adnexectomy, and left retroperitoneal mass resection were performed. Through intraoperative rapid pathological diagnosis, postoperative pathological diagnosis combined with the re-evaluation of laboratory, and imaging and intraoperative examination results, the patient was diagnosed with ureteric bud intestinal-type adenocarcinoma involving the cervix. The patient has been tracked and followed up for approximately 11 months. She underwent six courses of chemotherapy. At present, the medication has been discontinued for 4 months, and there is no recurrence, metastasis, or deterioration of the tumor.

Conclusion

For large masses of the cervix, it is feasible for the operation to be performed, improving the prognosis. There were a few limitations. A preoperative aspiration biopsy of masses was not performed to differentiate benign from malignant. Preoperative urography was not performed to clarify the function of the malformed urinary system structure. Partial cystectomy should be performed simultaneously with the resection of the ureteric bud for intestinal-type adenocarcinoma. In this case, a partial cystectomy was not performed, which can only be compensated with postoperative chemotherapy. Moreover, this patient did not undergo genetic screening, and it is currently unclear whether there are any genetic mutations associated with ureteric bud intestinal adenocarcinoma.
Predictive coding with spiking neurons and feedforward gist signaling
Authors: Lee Kwangjun , Dora Shirin , Mejias Jorge F. , Bohte Sander M. , Pennartz Cyriel M. A.
Published: April 2024

Predictive coding (PC) is an influential theory in neuroscience, which suggests the existence of a cortical architecture that is constantly generating and updating predictive representations of sensory inputs. Owing to its hierarchical and generative nature, PC has inspired many computational models of perception in the literature. However, the biological plausibility of existing models has not been sufficiently explored due to their use of artificial neurons that approximate neural activity with firing rates in the continuous time domain and propagate signals synchronously. Therefore, we developed a spiking neural network for predictive coding (SNN-PC), in which neurons communicate using event-driven and asynchronous spikes. Adopting the hierarchical structure and Hebbian learning algorithms from previous PC neural network models, SNN-PC introduces two novel features: (1) a fast feedforward sweep from the input to higher areas, which generates a spatially reduced and abstract representation of input (i.e., a neural code for the gist of a scene) and provides a neurobiological alternative to an arbitrary choice of priors; and (2) a separation of positive and negative error-computing neurons, which counters the biological implausibility of a bi-directional error neuron with a very high baseline firing rate. After training with the MNIST handwritten digit dataset, SNN-PC developed hierarchical internal representations and was able to reconstruct samples it had not seen during training. SNN-PC suggests biologically plausible mechanisms by which the brain may perform perceptual inference and learning in an unsupervised manner. In addition, it may be used in neuromorphic applications that can utilize its energy-efficient, event-driven, local learning, and parallel information processing nature.
Efficacy and efficacy-influencing factors of stem cell transplantation on patients with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Jianli , Qu Kang , Jia Shanshan , Yang Rong , Cui Ziting , Li Jiajia , Yu Peng , Dong Ming
Published: April 2024

Background

Cell transplants as a treatment for Parkinson’s disease have been studied for decades, and stem cells may be the most promising cell sources for this treatment. We aimed to investigate whether stem cell transplantation contributes to the cure for Parkinson’s disease and the factors that may influence the efficacy for this therapy.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, SinoMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), and ChinaInfo were thoroughly searched to find controlled trials or randomized controlled trials performing stem cell transplantation in patients with Parkinson’s disease. The pooled effects were analyzed to evaluate the weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Nine articles were identified including 129 individuals. Stem cell transplantation was an effective treatment for Parkinson’s disease (WMD = −14.86; 95% CI: −16.62 to −13.10; p < 0.00001), with neural stem cells, umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs), and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) being effective cell sources for transplantation. Stem cell transplantation can be effective for at least 12 months, but its long-term effectiveness remains unknown due to the limited studies monitoring patients for more than 1 year, not to mention decades.

Conclusion

Data from controlled trials suggest that stem cell transplantation as a therapy for Parkinson’s disease can be effective for at least 12 months. The factors that may influence its curative effect are time after transplantation and stem cell types.

Systematic review registration

(Registration ID: CRD42022353145).
Access to and interest in human milk research opportunities among Black pregnant and postpartum people
Authors: Asiodu Ifeyinwa V. , Gay Caryl L. , Gates-Burgess Brandi , Negrete Gabriela
Published: April 2024

Background

Concerns exist regarding biomedical research participation in marginalized and historically disadvantaged communities.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to understand critical barriers to participation in human milk research from the perspective of Black pregnant and postpartum people.

Methods

A national sample of Black pregnant and postpartum people (n = 104) was recruited to complete a cross-sectional online survey informed by the Life Course Perspective. Survey questions assessed research experiences and preferences, particularly related to human milk research, knowledge of historical events/policies targeting Black communities, and demographic characteristics. A socio-economic composite score was calculated as an indicator of socio-economic advantage. Survey data were summarized descriptively and potential correlates of research engagement were evaluated.

Results

Most (69%, n = 71) respondents reported previous participation in a research study, yet only 8 (8%) reported ever being asked to participate in a breastfeeding/chestfeeding or human milk study, and one respondent was unsure. Despite so few having been asked, 59% (n = 61) of respondents indicated they would donate breast/human milk to research if asked. Respondent characteristics associated with prior research participation included having greater socio-economic advantage (p = 0.027) and greater knowledge of discriminatory historical events/policies (p < 0.001). In contrast, the only respondent characteristic associated with willingness to donate human milk to research was younger age (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that Black pregnant and postpartum people are interested in biomedical research, specifically human milk and lactation research. However, greater intentionality and targeted recruitment of this underrepresented population is needed to increase diversity among human milk and lactation study samples. Structural and community-based interventions, informed by community members, are needed to address concerns and improve participant engagement.
The supplementation of female dogs with live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii CNCM I-1079 acts as gut stabilizer at whelping and modulates immunometabolic phenotype of the puppies
Authors: Garrigues Quentin , Mugnier Amélie , Chastant Sylvie , Sicard Flavie , Martin Jean-Charles , Svilar Ljubica , Castex Mathieu , Ramis-Vidal Manuel Guillermo , Rovere Nicoletta , Michaud Laurine , David Pauline , Mansalier Elodie , Rodiles Ana , Mila Hanna , Apper Emmanuelle
Published: April 2024

Time around parturition is a stressful period for both bitches and their puppies. The use of probiotics has been proposed, e.g., in pigs, to improve health status of sows, their reproductive performances and in turn, the health and performance of their progeny. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact, on both dams and puppies, of a supplementation of bitches with the live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii CNCM I-1079 (SB-1079) during the second part of the gestation and the lactation period. A total of 36 bitches of medium and large-sized breeds were enrolled. They were divided into two groups, one of which received 1.3 × 109 colony forming units of live yeast per day. At dam’s level, SB-1079 yeast shaped a different microbiota structure between the two groups just after whelping, impacted alpha diversity and some plasma metabolites related to energy metabolism. Regarding reproductive performances, SB-1079 improved gross energy of the colostrum (1.4 vs. 1.2 kcal of ME/g) as well as the concentration of protein in milk at Day 7 after parturition (10.4 vs. 7.6%). SB-1079 also reduced the odds of having low birth weight in the litter. At puppy’s level, a modulation of immunometabolic phenotype is suggested by the observation of increased growth rates during the early pediatric period (i.e., between 21 and 56 days of life, 225 vs. 190%) and a decrease of the IL-8:IL-10 ratio after vaccination against rabies (4.2 vs. 16.9). Our findings suggest that SB-1079 supplementation during gestation and lactation has the potential to enhance health of bitches and in turn health of puppies through maternal programming.
Intrapulmonary administration of recombinant activated factor VII in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult oncology and hematopoietic cell transplant patients with pulmonary hemorrhage
Authors: Hurley Caitlin , McArthur Jennifer , Gossett Jeffrey M. , Hall Elizabeth A. , Barker Patricia J. , Hijano Diego R. , Hines Melissa R. , Kang Guolian , Rains Jason , Srinivasan Saumini , Suliman Ali , Qudeimat Amr , Ghafoor Saad
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a devastating disease process with 50-100% mortality in oncology and hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients. High concentrations of tissue factors have been demonstrated in the alveolar wall in acute respiratory distress syndrome and DAH, along with elevated levels of tissue factor pathway inhibitors. Activated recombinant factor VII (rFVIIa) activates the tissue factor pathway, successfully overcoming the tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) inhibition of activation of Factor X. Intrapulmonary administration (IP) of rFVIIa in DAH is described in small case series with successful hemostasis and minimal complications.

Methods

We completed a single center retrospective descriptive study of treatment with rFVIIa and outcomes in pediatric oncology and HCT patients with pulmonary hemorrhage at a quaternary hematology/oncology hospital between 2011 and 2019. We aimed to assess the safety and survival of patients with pulmonary hemorrhage who received of IP rFVIIa.

Results

We identified 31 patients with pulmonary hemorrhage requiring ICU care. Thirteen patients received intrapulmonary rFVIIa, while eighteen patients did not. Overall, 13 of 31 patients (41.9%) survived ICU discharge. ICU survival (n=6) amongst those in the IP rFVIIa group was 46.2% compared to 38.9% (n=7) in those who did not receive IP therapy (p=0.69). Hospital survival was 46.2% in the IP group and 27.8% in the non-IP group (p=0.45). There were no adverse events noted from use of IP FVIIa.

Conclusions

Intrapulmonary rFVIIa can be safely administered in pediatric oncology patients with pulmonary hemorrhage and should be considered a viable treatment option for these patients.
Contactless assessment of heart rate in neonates within a clinical environment using imaging photoplethysmography
Authors: Svoboda Libor , Sperrhake Jan , Nisser Maria , Taphorn Luca , Proquitté Hans
Published: April 2024

Introduction

In neonatology, the accurate determination of vital parameters plays a pivotal role in monitoring critically ill newborns and premature infants, as well as aiding in disease diagnosis. In response to the limitations associated with contact-based measurement methods, substantial efforts have been directed toward developing contactless measurement techniques, particularly over the past decade.

Methods

Building upon the insights gained from our pilot study, we realized a new investigation to assess the precision of our imaging photoplethysmography-based system within a clinical environment of the neonatal intermediate care unit. We conducted measurements in 20 preterm infants or newborns requiring therapeutic interventions. As a point of reference, we employed a conventional pulse oximeter. To analytically predict measurement artifacts, we analyzed the potential influence of confounding factors, such as motion artifacts, illumination fluctuations (under- and overexposure), and loss of region of interest prior to heart rate evaluation. This reduced the amount of data we evaluated for heart rate to 56.1% of its original volume.

Results

In artifact-free time segments, the mean difference between the pulse oximetry and the imaging photoplethysmography-based system for 1 s sampling intervals resulted in −0.2 bpm (95% CI −0.8 to 0.4, LOA ± 12.2). For the clinical standard of 8 s averaging time, the mean difference resulted in −0.09 bpm (95% CI −0.7 to 0.6, LOA ± 10.1). These results match the medical standards.

Discussion

While further research is needed to increase the range of measurable vital parameters and more diverse patient collectives need to be considered in the future, we could demonstrate very high accuracy for non-contact heart rate measurement in newborn infants in the clinical setting, provided artifacts are excluded. In particular, performing a priori signal assessment helps make clinical measurements safer by identifying unreliable readings.
Research progress and applications of epigenetic biomarkers in cancer
Authors: Gao Jianjun , Shi Wujiang , Wang Jiangang , Guan Canghai , Dong Qingfu , Sheng Jialin , Zou Xinlei , Xu Zhaoqiang , Ge Yifei , Yang Chengru , Li Jiehan , Bao Haolin , Zhong Xiangyu , Cui Yunfu
Published: April 2024

Epigenetic changes are heritable changes in gene expression without changes in the nucleotide sequence of genes. Epigenetic changes play an important role in the development of cancer and in the process of malignancy metastasis. Previous studies have shown that abnormal epigenetic changes can be used as biomarkers for disease status and disease prediction. The reversibility and controllability of epigenetic modification changes also provide new strategies for early disease prevention and treatment. In addition, corresponding drug development has also reached the clinical stage. In this paper, we will discuss the recent progress and application status of tumor epigenetic biomarkers from three perspectives: DNA methylation, non-coding RNA, and histone modification, in order to provide new opportunities for additional tumor research and applications.
Traditional herbal medicine regulatory implementation in Ethiopia: a qualitative study
Authors: Usure Rashed Edris , Kebebe Dereje , Mekasha Yesuneh Tefera , Hasen Gemmechu , Chura Waritu Nuredin , Dubale Sileshi , Suleman Sultan
Published: April 2024

Background: Approximately 80% of the Ethiopian population predominantly depends on herbal medicines (HMs) for their primary healthcare needs. Nevertheless, worries regarding the safety, efficacy, and standard of herbal-based treatments have been escalating due to the lack of strong regulatory frameworks. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the presence of regulatory frameworks for traditional herbal medicines and their enforcement in Ethiopia.

Methods: The qualitative–phenomenological study design was conducted from November 2021 to March 2022 G.C. The study included 25 regulatory official key informants (KIs) who work for national and regional medicine regulatory agencies, and 15 traditional herbal medicine (THM) practitioners who work at the regional level were purposefully selected for an in-depth interview (IDI). An in-depth interview guide was developed through the purposive sampling technique. The collected data were analyzed using thematic content analysis techniques.

Results: The study found that the current national medicine proclamation is deemed inadequate in the regulation of THM. Both conventional and traditional herbal medicines are regulated by a single agency. Weak legal enforcement, a lack of government commitment and support, resource constraints, and inadequate regulatory tools are the main challenges faced in THM regulation.

Conclusion: Overall, the study found inadequate legal frameworks and weak THM regulatory implementations in Ethiopia. Consequently, it is critical for all regulatory authorities in Ethiopia to exert their utmost efforts to effectively regulate THM.