bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of dietary insulin index (DII) and dietary insulin load (DIL) with circadian rhythm and quality of sleep among overweight and obese women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mirzababaei Atieh , Abaj Faezeh , Radmehr Mina , Ghorbani Moloud , Aali Yasaman , Harsini Asma Rajabi , Clark Cain C. T. , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: December 2024

Background

Obesity is a global issue, with over 1.9 billion adults overweight. Disruption of circadian rhythms (CR) leads to obesity and metabolic disorders. Dietary nutrition significantly impacts sleep disorders and disruption in CR, influencing hormones and inflammation, which can contribute to insomnia. The dietary insulin index (DII) and dietary insulin load (DIL) are important factors in determining sleep quality. The current study aims to investigate the association between DII and DIL with CR and sleep quality among with overweight and obesity women.

Methods

A case-control study involved 280 overweight/obese women aged 25–40 from Tehran University Medical Science. They were assessed for dietary intake, physical activity, and sleep using validated questionnaires. The study also assessed body composition, bioelectrical impedance analysis, biochemical components, anthropometric components, and blood pressure. Socio-demographic and lifestyle characteristics, such as age, educational level, physical activity, and smoking habits, were also assessed through questionnaires.

Result

In the crude and adjustment models, high adherence of DII compared with lower adherence increased the odds of poor sleep quality index among participants. This significant association remained even after adjustment for confounding variables (P < 0.05), such that the odds of poor sleep quality index was 1.92 times higher.

Conclusion

This study showed high adherence to DII and DIL may cause CR disruption. Furthermore, higher adherence to DII lead to poor sleep quality in women.
Prediction of the success of orthodontic treatment of impacted maxillary canines using panoramic radiography parameters: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Güllü Yusuf Ömer , Çakmak Özlü Fethiye
Published: December 2024

Background

This retrospective study aimed to investigate the relationships between the radiographic features of impacted maxillary canines (IMCs) and traction duration and the factors affecting treatment success.

Methods

Pre-treatment panoramic radiographs and patient records of 121 consecutive patients with IMCs were analyzed. The measurements included the angle of the IMC with the midline (α-angle), the horizontal position of the IMC relative to the adjacent teeth (S-Sector), the distance from the IMC to the occlusal plane (d-distance), the apex position of the IMC (A), and the vertical height of the IMC relative to the adjacent lateral tooth (V). The measurements were repeated 1 week later. The intraclass correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the relationship between two measurements. Binary logistic regression was performed to determine the factors affecting treatment success. Linear regression was conducted to determine the relationships between traction duration and other parameters. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the α-angle and the d-distance cutoff values for treatment success. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results

The buccally IMCs were mostly located in sectors 1–2, whereas the palatally IMCs were mostly located in sectors 3-4-5. The effects of the parameters on the treatment success were significant according to the logistic regression of age (p = 0.003), d-distance (p = 0.002), and α-angle (p = 0.001). Linear regression analysis revealed that traction duration was statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

According to the results of this retrospective study, the α-angle, d-distance, and sector can be used to predict the buccopalatal position of the IMC. The patient’s age, d-distance, and α-angle affected the treatment success. The patient’s age, d-distance, and the sector of the impacted canine affected the traction duration.

Clinical trial number

Not applicable.
Expanding the phenotypic and genetic spectrum of GTPBP3 deficiency: findings from nine Chinese pedigrees
Authors: Xie Yaojun , Li Keyi , Yang Li , Zeng Xiaofei , Chen Zhehui , Ma Xue , Zhang Luyi , Zhou Yuwei , Jin Liqin , Yang Yanling , Lou Xiaoting
Published: December 2024

Background

GTPBP3 catalyzes τm5(s2) U biosynthesis at the 34th wobble position of mitochondrial tRNAs, the hypomodification of τm5U leads to mitochondrial disease. While twenty-three variants of GTPBP3 have been reported worldwide, the genetic landscape in China remains uncertain.

Methods

By using whole-exome sequencing, the candidate individuals carrying GTPBP3 variants were screened and identified. Pathogenicity analysis of variants was biochemically verified by patients-derived immortalized lymphocytes and cell models.

Results

Through whole-exome sequencing, thirteen variants associated with GTPBP3 were identified in nine Chinese pedigrees, with eight of these variants being newly reported. Affected individuals displayed classic neurologic phenotypes and heart complications including developmental delay, seizures, hypotonia, exercise intolerance, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Additionally, they displayed new symptoms such as eye problems like strabismus and heart issues related to valve function. Studies conducted on patient-derived cells provided evidence of reduced levels of GTPBP3 and impairment in mitochondrial energetic biogenesis. Re-expressing GTPBP3 variants in knockout cell lines further defined the pathogenicity of the novel variants. Analysis of the genetic spectrum in the Chinese population highlighted a concentration in exons 4 and 6, with c.689A > C being the prominent hotspot.

Conclusion

Our findings emphasize the extensive clinical and genetic implications of GTPBP3-related mitochondrial disorders, particularly within the Chinese population, but further investigations are needed to explore the phenotype-genotype correlation.
Multisystem clinicopathologic and genetic analysis of MELAS
Authors: Xu Shuai , Jiang Jialiu , Chang Leilei , Zhang Biao , Zhu Xiaolei , Niu Fengnan
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives

Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome is a maternally inherited mitochondrial disorder that mostly affects the central nervous system and skeletal muscle. This study provides a comprehensive summary of the clinical symptoms, multisystemic pathogenesis, and genetic characteristics of MELAS syndrome. The aim was to improve comprehension of clinical practice and gain a deeper understanding of the latest pathophysiological theories.

Methods

The present investigation involved a cohort of patients diagnosed with MELAS at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital between January 2014 and December 2022. Multisystem symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging/spectroscopy (MRI/MRS), muscle biopsy, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) data were summarized and subsequently analysed.

Results

This retrospective study included a cohort of 29 MELAS patients who predominantly presented symptoms such as stroke-like episodes, proximal muscle weakness, and exercise intolerance. MRI scans revealed very small infarcts beneath the deep cortex during stroke-like episodes, indicating nonvascular brain damage. Pathology analyses of the brain also showed neuronal degeneration and glial cell proliferation in the cerebral parenchyma. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) analysis revealed an increase in the lactate peak and a reduction in the N-acetylaspartate (NAA) level. Similarly, the phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS) analysis revealed an abnormal ratio of inorganic phosphate (Pi) to phosphocreatine (PCr). Muscle biopsy revealed the presence of ragged red fibres (RRFs) and cytochrome c oxidase (COX) enzyme-defective cells. These abnormalities indicate structural abnormalities in the mitochondria and deficiencies in oxidative phosphorylation, respectively. In addition to the common m.3243A > G variant, other prevalent variants, including m.5628 T > C, m.6352-13952del, and a 9-bp small deletion combined with m.3243A > G, exist.

Conclusions

MELAS is a rare mitochondrial syndrome characterized by clinical heterogeneity and genetic heteroplasmy. Abnormalities in mitochondrial metabolic function and impairments in enzyme activity are the pathogenic processes underlying MELAS. Mitochondrial vasculopathy and mitochondrial neuropathy may provide a partial explanation for the unique aetiology of stroke-like episodes.
Higher temperatures and being an ethnic minority reduce mosquito net use in Lao PDR: an analysis of Lao PDR’s Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey and Earth observation satellite data
Authors: Otieno Wills Peter , Ankapong Eunice Abena Kwatemaa , Nomura Kanae , Matsumoto-Takahashi Emilie Louise Akiko
Published: December 2024

Background

Malaria remains the leading cause of under-five morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Sleeping under mosquito nets, especially insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), is one of the best ways to prevent malaria as they form a physical and chemical barrier against mosquitoes. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess not only mosquito net use, but also how environmental factors, specifically land surface temperature, contribute to malaria prevention among households with children under 5 years of age in Lao PDR.

Methods

The most recent Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey datasets of Lao PDR 2017 and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Public Health Monitoring and Analysis Platform (JPMAP) were used. Data from 51,948 households were used in the analysis. A bivariate logistic regression analysis was followed by a multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine the factors influencing mosquito net use with children under five.

Results

In this study, 77.8% of all households with children under 5 years of age slept under mosquito nets. Of these, 80.5% were ITNs (Olyset, Permanent, and other brands). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that mosquito net use was significantly associated with the land surface temperature, ethno-linguistic group (Lao-Tai, Mon-Khmer, Hmong-Mien, Chinese-Tibetan, and other), education level of the household head, and wealth index quintile.

Conclusions

The analysis of the present study suggested measures to intensify the use of mosquito nets with an emphasis on ethnic minorities living in hot areas to bring Lao PDR closer to the day that mosquito-borne infections such as malaria can be eliminated.
Semi-supervised contour-driven broad learning system for autonomous segmentation of concealed prohibited baggage items
Authors: Velayudhan Divya , Ahmed Abdelfatah , Hassan Taimur , Owais Muhammad , Gour Neha , Bennamoun Mohammed , Damiani Ernesto , Werghi Naoufel
Published: December 2024

With the exponential rise in global air traffic, ensuring swift passenger processing while countering potential security threats has become a paramount concern for aviation security. Although X-ray baggage monitoring is now standard, manual screening has several limitations, including the propensity for errors, and raises concerns about passenger privacy. To address these drawbacks, researchers have leveraged recent advances in deep learning to design threat-segmentation frameworks. However, these models require extensive training data and labour-intensive dense pixel-wise annotations and are finetuned separately for each dataset to account for inter-dataset discrepancies. Hence, this study proposes a semi-supervised contour-driven broad learning system (BLS) for X-ray baggage security threat instance segmentation referred to as C-BLX. The research methodology involved enhancing representation learning and achieving faster training capability to tackle severe occlusion and class imbalance using a single training routine with limited baggage scans. The proposed framework was trained with minimal supervision using resource-efficient image-level labels to localize illegal items in multi-vendor baggage scans. More specifically, the framework generated candidate region segments from the input X-ray scans based on local intensity transition cues, effectively identifying concealed prohibited items without entire baggage scans. The multi-convolutional BLS exploits the rich complementary features extracted from these region segments to predict object categories, including threat and benign classes. The contours corresponding to the region segments predicted as threats were then utilized to yield the segmentation results. The proposed C-BLX system was thoroughly evaluated on three highly imbalanced public datasets and surpassed other competitive approaches in baggage-threat segmentation, yielding 90.04%, 78.92%, and 59.44% in terms of mIoU on GDXray, SIXray, and Compass-XP, respectively. Furthermore, the limitations of the proposed system in extracting precise region segments in intricate noisy settings and potential strategies for overcoming them through post-processing techniques were explored (source code will be available at https://github.com/Divs1159/CNN_BLS.)
Disseminated tuberculosis in an immunocompetent young female: a case report from Indonesia and a literature review
Authors: William Yonathan , Herwanto Velma , Octavius Gilbert Sterling
Published: December 2024

Background

Disseminated TB is a potentially life-threatening condition which usually affects immunocompromised patients.

Main body of the abstract

This is a case report of a 40-year-old immunocompetent female presenting with disseminated tuberculosis (TB) involving the lungs, central nervous system, spleen, and lymph nodes. The patient reported a month-long history of diplopia, particularly affecting her right eye, along with vertigo, weight loss, headache, and cough. A history of tuberculous lymphadenopathy and pulmonary tuberculosis treated a year prior was noted, though follow-up confirmation was incomplete. Clinical examination revealed right-sided seventh cranial nerve palsy and slightly elevated intraocular pressure. Laboratory tests revealed anemia, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, low iron levels, and positive antinuclear and anti-Toxoplasma antibodies. Chest imaging showed miliary nodules in the lungs, while a computed tomography scan identified splenic granulomas. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed a ring-enhancing lesion, pachymeningeal thickening, and arterial wall enhancement, suggestive of tuberculoma, tuberculous meningitis, and vasculitis. Despite negative Mycobacterium tuberculosis cultures, cerebrospinal fluid analysis indicated low glucose and elevated protein, and a line probe assay confirmed the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The patient was then treated with complete tuberculosis. Significant clinical improvement was observed within a month, and treatment continued for 11 months.

Short conclusion

This case highlights the rare occurrence of disseminated TB in an immunocompetent individual and underscores the importance of early diagnosis and management to prevent severe complications.
Lumbar spinal posture deviation: an observational study on the prevalence among auto-rickshaw drivers
Authors: Arham Mohd , Chakraborty Rahul , Naaz Amreen , Sharma Yamini , Sharma Jyoti , Chahal Aksh
Published: December 2024

Background

There are different types of transportation facilities available in India, such as rail, water, and air transportation. In India, the auto rickshaw is a popular mode of public transport. Auto rickshaws are the next most commonly reported mode of transportation, used by 38% of rural households and 47% of urban households, respectively. This study addresses the occupational hazards experienced by auto-rickshaw drivers, as well as health issues such as musculoskeletal problems. Long rides and extended periods of sitting may increase the risk of lumbar spine damage, back discomfort, and stiffness. The purpose of the study is to assess and identify postural abnormalities, such as hypolordosis and hyperlordosis, among auto-rickshaw drivers in a suburban area of a state in India.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of lumbar spinal posture deviation among auto rickshaw drivers.

Method

It is an observational study. Specific selection criteria were set, and participants were chosen through convenience sampling, with a sample size of 167 auto-rickshaw drivers from Gautam Buddh Nagar, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. Auto-rickshaw drivers aged 20 to 50 years were included in the study. Informed consent was obtained from each individual. A digital inclinometer was used to determine the lumbo-sacral angle (LSA) for the lumbar curvature. Anthropometric factors such as age, height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) were measured.

Result

The study shows a significant prevalence of hypolordosis, with 83.8% of drivers displaying this postural abnormality. In addition, 4.8% of drivers showed hyperlordosis, whereas 11.4% had a normal lumbar curvature. Furthermore, the study analyzes the prevalence of postural abnormalities among age groups.

Conclusion

The study emphasizes the need to address postural irregularities among auto-rickshaw drivers, highlighting the prevalence of lumbar spinal posture deviation and the need for efforts to improve working conditions and promote proper posture. Future studies should be planned and executed to focus on developing tailored treatments and ergonomic measures to enhance the well-being of auto-rickshaw drivers.
Diet and lifestyle related knowledge among sample of autoimmune arthritis Egyptian patients
Authors: Hegazy Mona Abdelmonem , Abdelfatah Dalia , Behairy Mervat , Salman Shaymaa Ahmed , Ahmed Sarah Abdellatif , Mohamed Mohamed Ola , Abdelazeem Alyaa Abdelhameed , Ramadan Hala
Published: December 2024

Background

An unhealthy diet, characterized by elevated consumption of fats and sugars, has detrimental effects on the incidence, progression, and treatment outcomes of arthritis. However, adherence to healthy dietary regimens among these patients remains low. This study aims to assess the knowledge of healthy diet and lifestyle among a cohort of autoimmune arthritis Egyptian patients.

Methods

We conducted this cross-sectional study on 502 patients diagnosed with autoimmune arthritis, using 302 online and 200 printed questionnaire forms. The questionnaire comprised sections on socioeconomic status (five questions), information on autoimmune diseases (three questions), nutrition (15 questions), and lifestyle habits (four questions).

Results

A total of 502 respondents were enrolled, with 64.5% having rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Only 26.9% of patients were aware of the lifestyle and dietary impact on their disease symptoms. Most patients (89.6%) had good knowledge about the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and 63.3% knew that consuming fish is beneficial. However, 55.7% were aware of the benefits of physical activity. The total knowledge score was 57.8%. Responses were classified as poor in 217 patients, primarily those unemployed and living in rural areas; moderate in 150 patients; and good in only 135 patients. Additionally, younger individuals demonstrated better knowledge scores.

Conclusions

Egyptian patients with autoimmune arthritis exhibited fair to moderate knowledge regarding the impact of anti-inflammatory diets and exercise on the symptoms of autoimmune arthritis and the influence of nutrients on immunity and inflammation. It is essential to prioritize the therapeutic role of nutrition in proactive medical management, signifying the fundamental shift in healthcare management.
Fast 3D inversion for transient electromagnetic data based on the BEDS-FDTD method
Authors: Liu Shangbin , Liu Rui , Zhao Hualiang , Sun Huaifeng , Liu Dong
Published: December 2024

The correct interpretation of time-domain electromagnetic (TEM) data acquired in complex geological environments relies on 3D inversion. However, the complexity of the TEM problem makes 3D inversion extremely time-consuming. This is one of the main obstacles to the application of the 3D inversion technique to practical problems. The most time-consuming parts of the 3D inversion are the forward modeling and the calculation of the sensitivity matrix. This is because both operations require dealing with large sparse matrices, which is very time-consuming either by direct or iterative methods. In this paper, we present an algorithm framework designed to accelerate 3D TEM inversion. To solve the forward problem quickly, we use our previously proposed algorithm, BEDS-FDTD, which can downgrade and reconstruct the large sparse matrices into a series of low-order tridiagonal ones. The sensitivity matrix is implicitly computed by adjoint forward modeling to reduce memory requirements. Based on the characterizations of the forward equations and the inverse time series solving of the adjoint field, we derive the control equations for the adjoint forward modeling with low-order tridiagonal coefficient matrices. In the new inversion algorithm, there is no longer a need to solve large sparse matrices, but instead low-order ones, which saves computation time. To further accelerate the 3D inversion, the forward and adjoint equations are solved on graphics processing units (GPUs) in parallel. This inversion algorithm is first tested on two synthetic models. The experiment results demonstrate the effectiveness of the inversion algorithm proposed in this paper, and the time spent on 3D inversion is reduced significantly. Finally, we use this inversion algorithm for field data, and the inversion results agree well with the known information.
Multi-Region Full Waveform Inversion for Ground Penetrating Radar Common-offset Data#xD;
Authors: Hu Rong , Li Jing , Liu Hui
Published: December 2024

Ground-penetrating radar full waveform inversion (GPR-FWI) is a high-resolution inversion technique that quantitatively estimates the subsurface physical parameters (permittivity, conductivity) by matching both waveform amplitude and phase. However, the requirement to meet stability conditions forces the during wave propagation grid dimensions to be at the centimeter level, resulting in significant memory usage when discretizing the full radar wavefield. This makes it challenging to apply the FWI method on large-scale 2D or 3D GPR datasets. Furthermore, most commercial GPR systems record common-offset gathers (COG), so most GPR field data does not need to calculate the full model-space wavefield during the FWI iteration procedure. This work proposes a multi-region full waveform inversion approach (MR-FWI) for common-offset GPR data. The core strategy is to divide the model space into multiple grid regions and dynamically adjust these grids according to the requirements. By focusing on a given spatial range of the wavefield and model gradient, the computational steps are optimized, significantly reducing memory consumption and computational cost. A synthetic model and two raw GPR data examples validate that the multi-region strategy can reduce the computational burden without sacrificing inversion accuracy. The proposed MR-FWI is particularly suitable for limited computing resources and large-scale datasets, which provides a robust and high-resolution approach for most real common-offset GPR applications.
The Intraosseous Subarcuate Loop of Anterior Inferior Cerebellar Artery: Anatomic Management Guide, Single-Center MRI Study, and Scoping Review
Authors: De Bonis Alessandro , Plou Pedro , Bauman Megan M. J. , Athanasoulis Filippos , Kollia Sofia , Torregrossa Fabio , Serioli Simona , Leonel Luciano César P.C. , Carlson Matthew , Link Michael , Peris-Celda Maria
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The intraosseous subarcuate loop (SL) is a unique variant of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA), where a loop of the artery is trapped in the petrous bone's subarcuate fossa (SF). Recognizing this variant is crucial for planning cerebellopontine angle (CPA) surgeries; however, data regarding its frequency and management vary in the published literature. A cohort from a single center was studied using MRI to assess its prevalence, and the findings were compared with the existing literature. In addition, an intraoperative guide for mobilizing the intraosseous AICA's SL was provided through a detailed step-by-step cadaveric dissection.

METHODS:

Two hundred fifty-eight patients who had undergone MRI scans of the CPA (516 sides) were retrospectively reviewed. MRIs displaying vascular loops visible in the axial view were analyzed using multiplanar reconstruction, and the intraosseous loop frequency was evaluated. A scoping review was undertaken to provide an overview of previously published data on its prevalence. One embalmed and latex-injected specimen with intraosseous AICA's SL was dissected through a retrosigmoid approach, and 1 surgical case was detailed, describing the procedure to release it.

RESULTS:

Intraosseous AICA's SL mobilization involves the identification of its entry and exit points within the petrous bone, dural incision to expose the SF, SF drilling, subarcuate artery division, and detaching the vascular loop. Preservation of a dural cuff is crucial to prevent vascular injury. We analyzed 258 brain MRIs (mean age 55 years, 42% male). The intraosseous AICA's SL was present in 4 of 516 evaluated CPAs (0.8%). The prevalence of the vascular anomaly in the reviewed literature using different radiological modalities ranged from 0.2% to 1.6%.

CONCLUSION:

The intraosseous AICA's SL is an uncommon anatomic variation detectable by MRI, posing an added risk in CPA surgery. Identifying and properly mobilizing it is crucial for safe vascular preservation.
Meryem Sebti, Avicenne. Prophétie et Gouvernement du Monde. (İbn Sînâ: Nübüvvet ve Âlemin Yönetimi)
Authors: Varlık Selami
Published: December 2024

Meryem Sebti, Avicenne. Prophétie et Gouvernement du Monde. (İbn Sînâ: Nübüvvet ve Âlemin Yönetimi), Paris: Les Editions du Cerf (Islam, Nouvelles Approches), 2021, 314 sayfa. ISBN 9782204143172.
Factors associated with eye disorders and diseases: A retrospective study
Authors: Goktas Olgun
Published: December 2024

Objective: To retrospectively identify the factors associated with eye disorders and diseases.
Methods: The retrospective study was carried out in Bursa Uludag University Family Health Center in Turkey between 1-30 September 2023. The data of individuals who were registered with the Family Health Center and whose eye disorders and diseases were known were evaluated retrospectively. Eye disorders and diseases, sociodemographic findings, existing diseases, allergies, cancer, genetic disease conditions, and steroid use were obtained.
Results: Around 3658 people; 1849 males (50.5%) and 1809 females (49.5%) participated in the study. The mean age of the individuals was 26.98±10.22 years. It was determined that 1594 (43.6%) of the participants had at least one eye disorder and/or disease and 1511 (41.3%) wore glasses and/or contact lenses. In 1594 (43.6%) patients with eye disorders or diseases, 41% had refractive disorders. It was determined that the rate of eye diseases is higher in women, smokers, and obese people, those with a family history of eye diseases, those with allergic and chronic diseases, those with genetic diseases, and those who use steroids (p=0.04).
Conclusion: It is noteworthy in terms of eye health that nearly half of the participants have at least one eye disorder and/or disease, and nearly half of them use glasses and/or contact lenses. It is also important that eye disorders and diseases are seen more together with smoking, obesity, allergies, genetic and chronic diseases, and steroid use. We emphasize the holistic approach of family medicine and the importance of cooperation with other clinics in terms of eye health.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9728
How to cite this: Goktas O. Factors associated with eye disorders and diseases: A retrospective study. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):176-181.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9728
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.
Συνθετικές προσεγγίσεις δραστικών φαρμακευτικών ενώσεων και αναλόγων τους
Authors: Ζησοπούλου Σταυρούλα
Published: December 2024

Η παρούσα εργασία χωρίζεται σε τρία κύρια μέρη, σε καθένα από τα οποία αναπτύσσονται χωριστά τα διαφορετικά αντικείμενα με τα οποία ασχοληθήκαμε. Στο πρώτο μέρος περιγράφεται η ανάπτυξη μιας βιβλιοθήκης ενώσεων με παράγωγα της πεντενομυκινης Ι (1) τα οποία ανήκουν στην κατηγορία των πολυοξυγονούχων κυκλοπεντενονών. Η τάξη των ενώσεων αυτών παρουσιάζει ιδιαίτερο ενδιαφέρον λόγω της βιολογικής τους δράσης. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, οι ενώσεις αυτής της κατηγορίας εμφανίζουν μέτρια ως ισχυρή δράση έναντι gram-θετικών και gram-αρνητικών βακτηρίων. Στο δεύτερο μέρος γίνεται περιγραφή της ανάπτυξης σύνθεσης ενός ενδιαμέσου της βορτιοξετίνης. Πιο συγκεκριμένα αναλύεται μια καινοτόμος και φιλική προς το περιβάλλον μέθοδος σύνθεσης 2 σταδίων η οποία μπορεί να εφαρμοστεί σε βιομηχανική κλίματα και έχει κατοχυρωθεί από δίπλωμα ευρεσιτεχνίας. Στο τρίτο και τελευταίο μέρος γίνεται περιγραφή της σύνθεσης δύο ενδιαμέσων της σακουμπιτρίλης. Πρόκειται για δύο μεθόδους 12 και 3 σταδίων με εξαιρετικές αποδόσεις που ξεκινούν από την χειρόμορφη αλκοόλη (+)-μενθόλη και τον μεθυλεστέρα της D-σερίνης αντίστοιχα. Επίσης στο τρίτο μέρος γίνεται μελέτη της αντίδρασης αναγωγής του αιθυλεστέρα των οξαζινών με LiBH4 και LiAlH4 ως αναγωγικών μέσων. Η αντίδραση αυτή αποτελεί στάδιο της συνθετικής πορείας 12 σταδίων του ενδιαμέσου της σακουμπιτρίλης. Τέλος και τα τρία αυτά διαφορετικά αντικείμενα έρευνας αναπτύσσονται λεπτομερώς τόσο σε θεωρητικό επίπεδο όσο και ως προς τα πειραματικά τους αποτελέσματα.
Digital-twin-enabled 6G network autonomy and generative intelligence: Architecture, technologies and applications
Authors: Shu Min , sun wanfei , zhang jing , duan xiaoyan , ai ming
Published: December 2024

Background The 6G network provides on-demand services and efficient governance, which is an important capability of the 6G network in the future. Providing more flexibility, availability, and dynamicity in services and network function enablement face many challenges in the 6G network due to the system complexity. To fulfill the requirement of the new generation of a digital and intelligent network, the 6G architecture with digital twin as a new enabler technology, is expected to evolve in the network autonomy and generative intelligence properties, which could optimize and adapt the network and services themselves to a variety of scenarios and deployments. Methods To achieve 6G network autonomy and generative intelligence, we propose an architecture based on digital twin technology. This architecture integrates the digital twin network with the minimalist network and supports single-domain autonomous and cross-domain collaboration via centralized-distributed digital twin deployment, and defines the interactions between the digital twin and the service layer as well as the physical network. Results Based on the analysis of the architecture, we put forward the following design principles for the 6G digital twin network architecture: decoupling, interactions, endogenous Artificial Intelligence (AI), distribution, heterogeneity, autonomous, and closed-loop. In addition, we get the key technologies achieving collaboration efficiently between the network autonomy domain and generative intelligence domain in the distributed digital twin system. Important application directions of the 6G digital twin network architecture are also analyzed. Conclusions In this paper, the new digital-twin-enabled 6G architecture and 6G digital twin network architecture design principles are proposed. The key technologies and important application of digital-twin-enabled 6G architecture are provided.
Enhancing Tooth Anatomy Education: Integrating Lecturio in a Flipped Classroom for year 1 undergraduate dental students in private Malaysian university- A mixed method study
Authors: Rath Avita
Published: December 2024

Background Tooth anatomy is foundational in dental education, demanding mastery of complex 3D structures and morphology. Traditional lecture-based methods often limit interactive learning and diverse learning styles. This mixed-methods study explores the impact of integrating Lecturio's digital platform into a flipped classroom model for Year 1 dental students learning tooth anatomy at private Malaysian dental school. Methods A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed with Year 1 dental students (n = 56) wherein students were quasi-randomly assigned to a control group (n = 28) receiving traditional lectures or an intervention group (n = 28) experiencing the flipped classroom with Lecturio. Quantitative data included pre-and post-test scores assessing knowledge acquisition and survey responses on student perceptions (engagement, satisfaction, and perceived effectiveness). Qualitative data from focus groups explored student experiences in-depth. Data were analysed using paired and independent t-tests, thematic analysis, and a convergent parallel approach for integration. Results The flipped classroom group demonstrated a significantly more substantial improvement in tooth anatomy knowledge (p < 0.05). Quantitative analysis of survey data revealed higher engagement, satisfaction, and perceived effectiveness in the flipped classroom group. Qualitative findings underscored active learning as a key theme, indicating that the flipped classroom model promotes student engagement and participation. Conclusions The integration of Lecturio into a flipped classroom model emerges as a potent tool for enhancing tooth anatomy education. This model not only fosters active learning but also caters to diverse learning styles, thereby improving knowledge acquisition. The findings of this study provide compelling evidence for the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model in dental education.
Releasing synthetic data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC): Guidelines and applied examples
Authors: Major-Smith Daniel , Kwong Alex S. F. , Timpson Nicholas J. , Heron Jon , Northstone Kate
Published: December 2024

The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) is a prospective birth cohort. Since its inception in the early 1990s, the study has collected over thirty years of data on approximately 15,000 mothers, their partners, and their offspring, resulting in over 100,000 phenotype variables to date. Maintaining data security and participant anonymity and confidentiality are key principles for the study, meaning that data access is restricted to bona fide researchers who must apply to use data, which is then shared on a project-by-project basis. Despite these legitimate reasons for restricting data access, this does run counter to emerging best scientific practices encouraging making data openly available to facilitate transparent and reproducible research. Given the rich nature of the resource, ALSPAC data are also a valuable educational tool, used for teaching a variety of methods, such as longitudinal modelling and approaches to modelling missing data. To support these efforts and to overcome the restrictions in place with the study’s data sharing policy, we discuss methods for generating and making openly available synthesised ALSPAC datasets; these synthesised datasets are modelled on the original ALSPAC data, thus maintaining variable distributions and relations among variables (including missing data) as closely as possible, while at the same time preserving participant anonymity and confidentiality. We discuss how ALSPAC data can be synthesised using the ‘synthpop’ package in the R statistical programming language (including an applied example), present a list of guidelines for researchers wishing to release such synthesised ALSPAC data to follow, and demonstrate how this approach can be used as an educational tool to illustrate longitudinal modelling methods.
Phase I/IIa study to assess the safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of ChAdOx1-MVA vectored vaccines expressing a novel liver-stage malaria dual antigen LS2 by sporozoite challenge in malaria-naïve adults
Authors: Silman Daniel , Flaxman Amy , Datoo Mehreen , Edwards Nick J. , Ramos-Lopez Fernando , Mitton Celia , Mair Catherine , Bellamy Duncan , Bowyer Georgina , Morter Richard , Halbroth Benedict , Venkatraman Navin , Folegatti Pedro M. , Marshall Julia , Poulton Ian , Bajer Amelia , Salman Ahmed M. , Berrie Eleanor , Baum Jake , Blagborough Andrew M. , Crocker Wendy , Roberts Rachel , Lawrie Alison M. , Spencer Alexandra J. , Gilbert Sarah C. , Ewer Katie J. , Hill Adrian V. S.
Published: December 2024

Background Induction of CD8+ T-cells using viral vectors is a promising strategy in developing effective vaccines against pre-erythrocytic malaria. A recent comparative assessment of candidate antigens using this approach in a mouse model had identified Liver Stage Antigen 1 (LSA1) and Liver Stage Associated Protein 2 (LSAP2) as more protective than TRAP and CSP antigens, which have been the dominant focus of clinical testing. We proposed that combining these within a novel dual antigenic insert (LS2), encoded alongside an orthologous immunogenic domain from invariant chain in ChAdOx1, and the F11 promoter in MVA, could translate to protective clinical efficacy against malaria. Methods We conducted a non-randomised, open-label, dose escalation phase I/IIa study in UK adults, vaccinating a small lead-in group with ChAdOx1 LS2 5x109 vp (group 1; n = 3) and subsequently a heterologous prime–boost group with ChAdOx1 LS2 2.5x1010 vp and MVA LS2 2x108 pfu (group 2; n =10). Group 2 volunteers and 6 unvaccinated controls underwent Controlled Human Malaria Infection (CHMI) delivered by mosquito bite and standardized follow-up. Results Vaccination with ChAdOx1 LS2 (both low and full doses) and MVA LS2 were generally well tolerated with solicited symptoms observed similar to previous vectored vaccines and no Severe Adverse Events (SAEs). Immunogenicity of the prime-boost schedule as measured by IFN-γ ELISpot was high showing median response of 4473 SFC/10^6 PBMC at the pertinent pre-challenge timepoint, covering a broad range of potential determinants. All vaccinated volunteers became infected with malaria during CHMI with a median time to diagnosis of 13 days compared to 13.25 days in controls. Conclusions Though this study further indicates ChAd/MVA as a safe, highly effective platform for driving CD8+ responses specific to liver-stage malaria antigens, the promise of LSA1 and LSAP2 as potential candidates shown preclinically has not translated to protection from infection in humans. Clinical Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov (Ref: NCT03203421), date of registration, 3rd July 2017.
E-training course "Psychosomatosis"
Authors: Kremleva Olga Vladimirovna
Published: December 2024

The author's electronic training course "Psychosomatosis" is compiled in accordance with the requirements of the Federal State Educational Standard of Higher Education in the specialty 31.08.22 Psychotherapy (level of training of highly qualified personnel), approved by the Order of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation dated August 25, 2014 No. 1064 and in the specialty 31.08.20 Psychiatry (level of training of highly qualified personnel), approved by the Order of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation dated August 25, 2014 No. 1062. The purpose of studying the course is to form the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for a specialist to work in the field of diagnostics, treatment and prevention of psychosomatic disorders. Course objectives: · familiarization of students with the theoretical and clinical-psychological foundations necessary for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of psychosomatoses (F54 Psychological and behavioral factors associated with disorders or diseases classified elsewhere in ICD-10); · training students in the use and analysis of information on the biopsychosocial approach; · training students in the basics of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of psychosomatoses; · familiarization with the concepts of psychosomatic medicine, psychological and behavioral factors associated with physical disorders or diseases. The course duration is 36 hours. The course consists of 6 didactic units.
Application of Whole-Exome Sequencing in the Genetic Diagnosis of Prenatal Ultrasound Abnormalities
Authors: Qin Lili , Liu Datong , Wang Xuanyi , Xia Yu , Sun Meiling , Chen Huizi
Published: December 2024

Aims/Background Prenatal diagnosis is a crucial tool in reducing birth defects. Research indicates that whole-exome sequencing (WES) is particularly effective for detecting abnormalities associated with structural ultrasound findings. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of WES in the genetic diagnosis of prenatal ultrasound abnormalities.

Methods A total of 50 pregnant women with prenatal ultrasound abnormalities, diagnosed at Rizhao People’s Hospital between January 2023 and May 2024, were enrolled. Amniocytes, abortion tissues, and peripheral blood samples from the couples were collected for family-based WES.

Results WES revealed genetic abnormalities in 20 out of 50 cases, resulting in a detection rate of 40%. The detection rates for specific abnormalities were as follows: skeletal abnormalities (41.7%), cardiovascular abnormalities (54.5%), central nervous system abnormalities (30%), urinary system abnormalities (50%), nuchal translucency thickening/hygroma colli (20%), and facial anomalies/cleft lip and palate (25%). The genetic detection rates for monosystemic and multisystemic abnormalities were 34.2% and 50%, respectively.

Conclusion WES is crucial in the genetic diagnosis of prenatal ultrasound abnormalities, enhancing the accuracy of prenatal diagnostics and facilitating informed genetic counseling.
A Retrospective Analysis of Morbidity and Risk Factors of Multiple Myeloma with Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Gao Xiao-han , Liu Ying-jiao , Liu Yu-ting , Wang Yu-yao , Yang Jie , Li Yan , Li Jie
Published: December 2024

Aims/Background Peripheral nerve injury affects some people with multiple myeloma; this condition can be brought on by the disease itself or by the treatments they receive. Such a complication increases patients’ financial burden, causes treatment to be interrupted or delayed, and reduces treatment efficacy. However, opinions regarding the risk factors for peripheral neuropathy are currently divided. Consequently, the primary goals of this study were to determine the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy and related risk factors in newly diagnosed and untreated patients of multiple myeloma.

Methods Sixty-one patients with newly diagnosed and untreated multiple myeloma were retrospectively analyzed. Peripheral neuropathy (PN) in all patients was assessed via electromyography. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of PN. The differences in body mass index, haemoglobin, monoclonal M protein (M protein) and other related indicators between the two groups were analyzed using independent sample t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results Of the 61 patients, 72% had PN. Neuroelectrophysiological studies revealed that PN patients have abnormalities in both their motor and sensory fibres. We discovered that PN was strongly correlated with age, haemoglobin, and levels of creatinine (p = 0.039, p = 0.045, and p = 0.030, respectively).

Conclusion Age, haemoglobin and creatinine levels are associated with the occurrence of PN. Investigation of the incidence and risk factors of multiple myeloma-associated PN can provide a better theoretical basis for the selection of treatment options and the enhancement of patient well-being and satisfaction.
Significance of Relative Left Ventricle Wall Thickness in Predicting Acute Kidney Injury After Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for Lung Cancer
Authors: Shen Xiaokang , Zhang Yue , Zhan Chuanfei , Bhatti Muhammad Zunair , Zhu Hongyu , Zheng Lin
Published: December 2024

Aims/Background Given the strong association between relative wall thickness (RWT) and cardiovascular dysfunction, this study aims to explore RWT as a novel cardiovascular indicator to predict the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) after lung cancer surgery and guide clinical interventions.

Methods This study retrospectively analyzed 170 patients who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lung cancer in Nanjing First Hospital, China, between January 2022 and December 2023. Patients were divided into AKI group (n = 52) and non-AKI group (n = 118) based on the occurrence of AKI. Univariate analysis was performed to identify factors affecting the development of AKI in patients undergoing VATS for lung cancer. Moreover, multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine influencing factors. Correlation analysis was used to analyze the relationships between variables, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was conducted to assess predictive ability.

Results There were no statistically significant differences in gender, comorbidities, smoking history, tumor location, Tumor-Node-Metastasis (TNM) Staging System, tumor differentiation, neutrophil count, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, creatinine, urea nitrogen, intraoperative blood loss, and operation time (p > 0.05). The comparison of age, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) score, mean arterial pressure, and RWT between the two groups showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that age, APACHE II score, mean arterial pressure, and RWT significantly influenced the development of AKI in patients undergoing VATS for lung cancer (p < 0.05). RWT was negatively correlated with mean arterial pressure (r = –0.558, p < 0.05), and positively correlated with age and APACHE II Score (r = 0.573, 0.520, p < 0.05). Moreover, AKI showed a positive correlation with age, APACHE II Score, and RWT (r = 0.726, 0.685, 0.772, p < 0.05), and a negative correlation with mean arterial pressure (r = –0.724, p < 0.05). ROC analysis revealed that the area under the predicted curve for RWT was 0.864, and the standard error was 0.030 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.805~0.923), with a Youden index of 0.55. At this time, the sensitivity was 87.29% and the specificity was 67.31%.

Conclusion RWT shows excellent predictive value for postoperative AKI in patients undergoing VATS for lung cancer.