bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pelvic Stress Fracture among Naval Cadets in Bangladesh
Authors: Quader Mohammad Abdul , Farhana Irin
Published: January 2024

Stress fractures are often found in military recruits. Most involved bones are tibia, metatarsals, calcaneus and fibula. Pelvic stress fracture especially at pubic ramus is relatively rare; however, it is found more in females in comparison to its male counterpart. A prospective study was carried out to investigate demographic features of pelvic stress fractures among the Naval cadets in Bangladesh. A total of 18 patients with pelvic stress fractures reported at the Department of Orthopedics of Bangladesh Naval Ship (BNS) Patenga Hospital at Chattogram, Bangladesh, between January 2021 and December 2022. Naval trainee officers both male and female undergo physical and military training during their courses. Most of the cadets reported with pain in their groin. Routine investigation was done. Plain radiograph of pelvis revealed fracture lines sometimes periosteal elevation and sclerosis. The mean age of the patients was 18.94 years (ranging between 18 and 20 years). Out of 18 patients, 17 were female and 1 was male. All the cadets were treated conservatively. Post trauma pain developed in 3(16.67%) cases, while the rest 15(83.33%) recovered completely.  
CBMJ 2024 January: vol. 13 no. 01 P: 66-70
First Ever Organ Transplantation from A Brain-Dead Person in Bangladesh: A Successful Outcome of The Human Organ Transplantation Act
Authors: Hakim Raufun , Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Hossain Faruk , Ashrafuzzaman Mohammad , Sanwar Kursiya , Sultan Mohammad Tipu
Published: January 2024

On the 19th of January 2023, a historic event took place in the field of medical practice and country’s healthcare system. A 20-year-old girl named Sarah Islam was pronounced clinically dead on Wednesday (18 January, 2023) while being treated at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, with her terminal illness as she has been suffering from tuberous sclerosis since her childhood. Her final act was termed 'heroic' by her attending physicians as she became the first patient in the country to donate her organs while being brain-dead. The next day in the early morning (19 January, 2023) doctors conducted the country's first-ever cadaveric kidney transplantation as taken from her. The recipients were two females in their 30s who were reportedly recovering well after the surgery. Those two surgeries were performed separately at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Hospital and the National Kidney Foundation Hospital in Dhaka. The Human Organ Transplantation Act (HOTA) officially came into force in Bangladesh on April 13, 1999, allowing organ donations from both living and brain-dead donors; after long discussion, some amendments were ratified by the Parliament in 2018. The Act places some legal requirements around the collection and preservation of human organs as well as ensuring their transplantation into a human body. Few years back, religious leaders came forward to issue a fatwa (religious approval) that recognize both living and brain death criteria and permit both living and brain-dead donors to donate organs for transplantation. Based on that fatwa and a long medical discussion the country’s parliament passed this Act. Enacting the HOTA shows an immense influence in our society on cadaveric organ donation and transplantation especially from brain-dead individuals, and we hope that this historic donation will create more awareness and pave a new path for organ donation campaign in the country in near future.
CBMJ 2024 January: vol. 13 no. 01 P: 102-106
Cellular Self-Digestion Unveiled: Autophagy's Impact on Cancer
Authors: Chowdhury Ashiqur Rahman Khan , Naser Iftekhar Bin
Published: January 2024

Autophagy is a strictly controlled process in which cells break down and recycle their own components by transporting them to lysosomes. Multiple studies have shown that autophagy has a diverse range of physiological and pathological functions in cells. Autophagy in cancer has contradictory functions, serving as both a suppressor and a driver of tumor growth. Specifically, it may exhibit several roles in relation to cancer treatment, either leading to cancer resistance or enhancing susceptibility to radiation and chemotherapy. Hence, autophagy has the potential to augment the efficacy of anticancer medications and radiation treatment.  
CBMJ 2024 January: vol. 13 no. 01 P: 107-118
Inscriptions de l'Orkhon
Authors: Thomsen Vilhelm
Published: January 2024

Suomalais-Ugrilaisen Seuran Toimituksia V
Klu obum bsdus pai sñiṅ po. Eine verkürzte Version des Werkes von den hunderttausend Nâga's. Ein Beitrag zur Kenntnis der tibetischen Volksreligion. Einleitung, Text, Übersetzung und Glossar
Authors: Laufer Berthold
Published: January 2024

Suomalais-Ugrilaisen Seuran Toimituksia XI
Zur Geschichte des Vokalismus der ersten Silbe im Wotjakischen mit Rücksicht auf das Syrjänische
Authors: Wichmann Yrjö
Published: January 2024

Suomalais-Ugrilaisen Seuran Toimituksia XXXVI
Analysis of Clinical Characteristics and Post-Treatment Prognosis of Eosinophilic and Neutrophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps in Korean Patients
Authors: Kim Chae-Young , Byun Kwang-Hyun , Bae Jun-Sang , Kim Eun-Hee , Yoo Shin-Hyuk , Mo Ji-Hun
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives The aim of this study was to examine the clinical characteristics and prognosis of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) following endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), focusing on distinct histological endotypes characterized by eosinophil and neutrophil infiltration.Subjects and Method A total of 207 patients diagnosed with CRSwNP who underwent ESS between August 2014 and September 2018 were included in the study. Patients were categorized into different groups based on eosinophil and neutrophil counts in the tissues. The demographic data, Lund-Mackay score, Lund-Kennedy (L-K) endoscopic score, Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 and Kaplan-Meier estimation were analyzed according to different histologic endotypes.Results The histologic types were divided into four groups: the eosinophilic polyp (EP)+ neutrophlic polyp (NP) group, the EP group, the NP group, and the nonEP+nonNP group. Among the groups, the highest level of inflammation (L-K score, p<0.05) was observed in the EP+NP group, and the worst prognosis was observed in the EP+NP group according to the results of the Kaplan-Meier analysis (p<0.001).Conclusion Compared to non-neutrophil-infiltration polyps, neutrophil infiltration was associated with worse outcome when it was accompanied with eosinophilic infiltration. This discovery underlines how crucial it is to take neutrophils in nasal polyps into account in order to better understand their clinical behavior and maybe design customized treatments for better patient outcomes.
PERANCANGAN MEDIA LITERASI KESEHATAN JAJANAN ANAK BERDASARKAN TINGKAT PENGETAHUAN ORANG TUA TENTANG JAJANAN ANAK
Authors: Rosini Rosini , Al Fahd Mohammad Zidney , Ismayati Nita
Published: January 2024

This research aims to determine the level of knowledge of parents regarding children's snacks and find out what kind of health literacy material about children's snacks is needed by parents, and find out which health literacy media about children's snacks suits parents' information needs. This research method uses a quantitative descriptive type. The number of samples received in this research was 202. The sampling technique in this research used probability sampling, quota sampling type. The results of this study show that the level of knowledge of parents regarding school children's snacks (SCS) is high and very high. High levels are found in the indicators of types of snacks and characteristics of healthy snacks with scores of 3.26 and 3.27 respectively. Meanwhile, other indicators have a very high level of knowledge, namely: coverage/understanding of snacks with a score of 3.51, characteristics of unhealthy snacks with a score of 3.32, how to choose snacks with a score of 3.38, and factors for choosing snacks with a score of 3.45. Meanwhile, the content of material on health literacy about children's snacks targeting parents is about Types of Snacks and Characteristics of Healthy Snacks, whereas if the target is children, the material is on How to choose good snacks. Then the most frequently chosen health literacy media regarding children's snacks was ebooks with 37.1%. The recommended media for snack health literacy in this research is video media
Distribution and drivers of critical hibernacula for the timber rattlesnake Crotalus horridus in Illinois, USA
Authors: Jesper AC , Eckert SA , Ballard SR , Crawford JA , Dreslik MJ
Published: January 2024

The dependency on hibernacula for extended periods presents terrestrial reptiles with the challenge of locating thermally adequate hibernacula each winter. Defining the habitat characteristics of hibernacula is crucial for understanding the overwintering requirements and distributions of hibernacula-dependent reptiles, alongside identifying habitats which warrant special conservation concern. Our objectives were to identify the overwintering habitat characteristics of the imperiled timber rattlesnake Crotalus horridus in Illinois, USA, and to determine the distribution of likely hibernacula habitats throughout the state. Due to the initial sparsity of hibernacula records in Illinois, we adopted an iterative habitat suitability modeling process consisting of 3 distinct rounds of Maxent construction and revision. Each round was informed with updated information from model-guided surveys or by building rapport with in-state naturalists and researchers who knew of additional hibernacula locations. We created our final model using 36 hibernacula and identified slope angle (indicative of rock outcrops and shallow soils), topographical position index, forest patch area, and aspect (decomposed into 2 linearized variables: southness and eastness) as important drivers of C. horridus hibernacula habitat in Illinois. Together, the 5 variables and site surveys suggest the suitable overwintering habitat for C. horridus in Illinois is located on south- to southwest-facing outcrops on upper slopes and ridges of larger forest patches. Such habitat is distributed primarily in southern Illinois and throughout the Mississippi River and Illinois River border counties. Our study adds to the current understanding of the species’ overwintering requirements and provides a foundation for future ecological studies, management, and survey efforts throughout Illinois.
Characterization and insight mechanism of an acid-adapted β-Glucosidase from Lactobacillus paracasei and its application in bioconversion of glycosides
Authors: Xie Yufeng , Yan Xinrui , Li Changzhuo , Wang Shumei , Jia Longgang
Published: January 2024

Introduction: β-glucosidase is one class of pivotal glycosylhydrolase enzyme that can cleavage glucosidic bonds and transfer glycosyl group between the oxygen nucleophiles. Lactobacillus is the most abundant bacteria in the human gut. Identification and characterization of new β-glucosidases from Lactobacillus are meaningful for food or drug industry.

Method: Herein, an acid-adapted β-glucosidase (LpBgla) was cloned and characterized from Lactobacillus paracasei. And the insight acid-adapted mechanism of LpBgla was investigated using molecular dynamics simulations.

Results and Discussion: The recombinant LpBgla exhibited maximal activity at temperature of 30°C and pH 5.5, and the enzymatic activity was inhibited by Cu2+, Mn2+, Zn2+, Fe2+, Fe3+ and EDTA. The LpBgla showed a more stable structure, wider substrate-binding pocket and channel aisle, more hydrogen bonds and stronger molecular interaction with the substrate at pH 5.5 than pH 7.5. Five residues including Asp45, Leu60, Arg120, Lys153 and Arg164 might play a critical role in the acid-adapted mechanism of LpBgla. Moreover, LpBgla showed a broad substrate specificity and potential application in the bioconversion of glycosides, especially towards the arbutin. Our study greatly benefits for the development novel β-glucosidases from Lactobacillus, and for the biosynthesis of aglycones.
Predictors of weight reduction effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors in diabetes mellitus type 2 patients
Authors: Danpanichkul Pojsakorn , Manosroi Worapaka , Nilsirisuk Tharadon , Tosukhowong Theetouch
Published: January 2024

Background

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are a novel medication for treating type 2 diabetes (T2DM), which have the pleiotropic effect of weight reduction. This study aimed to evaluate clinical and biochemical predictors of effective weight reduction in T2DM patients who use various types of SGLT2i.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study was conducted with 289 adults diagnosed with T2DM who were first prescribed SGLT2i either as monotherapy or add-on therapy. The primary outcome was the identification of clinical and biochemical factors that can potentially induce meaningful weight reduction (>3% in 1 year) in T2DM patients while using SGLT2 inhibitors. The relationship between predictors and significant weight loss was assessed using logistic regression analysis, including adjustment for confounding factors. Results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Among the 289 patients, 45.6% had significant weight loss following SGLT2i use. The significant clinical predictors were age >70 years old (OR 3.26, 95% CI 1.39-7.6, p=0.006), body mass index >25 kg/m2 (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.05, p=0.049), and the use of sulfonylureas (OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.15-5.09, p=0.020). Additionally, the use of HCTZ showed significantly decreased odds of weight loss (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.13-0.96, p=0.043).

Conclusion

This research highlights multiple clinical factors that potentially can predict meaningful weight loss in patients with T2DM who are treated with SGLT2i. These findings could facilitate the identification of patients who might benefit from the weight loss effects of SGLT2i.
Complex relationship between growth hormone and sleep in children: insights, discrepancies, and implications
Authors: Zaffanello Marco , Pietrobelli Angelo , Cavarzere Paolo , Guzzo Alessandra , Antoniazzi Franco
Published: January 2024

Growth hormone (GH) is crucial to growth and development. GH secretion is regulated by a complex feedback system involving the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, and other organs, and predominantly occurs during deep sleep. Isolated and idiopathic growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a condition characterized by GHD without any other signs or symptoms associated with a specific syndrome or disease. The aim of this narrative review was to evaluate the relationship between GH and sleep in children using published data. Various databases (Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were systematically searched for relevant English language articles published up to April 2023. Search strategies included the terms ‘children/pediatric’, ‘growth hormone’, ‘growth hormone deficiency’ and ‘sleep’. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers; 185 papers were identified of which 58 were duplicates and 118 were excluded (unrelated n=83, syndromic/genetic GHD n=17, non-English n=13, abstract n=1, case report n=1). Overall, nine studies (six clinical studies, two case series, and one survey) were included. GHD appears to have an adverse effect on sleep in children, and GH therapy has only been shown to have a beneficial effect on sleep parameters in some individuals. Notably, identified data were limited, old/poor quality, and heterogenous/inconsistent. Further research of GHD in pediatric populations is necessary to improve the understanding of GHD impact on sleep and its underlying mechanisms, and to determine the specific impacts of GH therapy on sleep in children.
Intelligent day-ahead optimization scheduling for multi-energy systems
Authors: Yufeng Yang , Zhicheng Zhou , Xubing Xiao , Yaxin Pang , Linjun Shi
Published: January 2024

Concerning energy waste and rational use, this paper studies the optimal scheduling of day-ahead energy supply and the community’s demand with a combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) system in summer. From the perspective of bilateral costs and renewable energy use, this paper examines the impact of energy storage systems integrated into cogeneration systems. The Gurobi solver is used to optimize the residential community’s supply and demand sides of the traditional CCHP system (T-CCHP) and the CCHP system with energy storage (CCHP-ESS) under insufficient solar power. Subsequently, two optimal arrangements for energy consumption on the user side under these systems are suggested. In the optimization model, energy storage is added to the T-CCHP system on the energy supply side. On the user side, the energy use scheme is optimized considering the user’s comfort. The innovation point of this study is that the optimization of comprehensive energy in the park involves both supply and demand. The impact of increasing energy storage is discussed on the energy supply side, and the impact of optimization of the energy use plan on costs is discussed on the user side.
Nucleotide alterations in the HLA-C class I gene can cause aberrant splicing and marked changes in RNA levels in a polymorphic context-dependent manner
Authors: Mizutani Akiko , Suzuki Shingo , Shigenari Atsuko , Sato Tadayuki , Tanaka Masafumi , Kulski Jerzy K. , Shiina Takashi
Published: January 2024

Polymorphisms of HLA genes, which play a crucial role in presenting peptides with diverse sequences in their peptide-binding pockets, are also thought to affect HLA gene expression, as many studies have reported associations between HLA gene polymorphisms and their expression levels. In this study, we devised an ectopic expression assay for the HLA class I genes in the context of the entire gene, and used the assay to show that the HLA-C*03:03:01 and C*04:01:01 polymorphic differences observed in association studies indeed cause different levels of RNA expression. Subsequently, we investigated the C*03:23N null allele, which was previously noted for its reduced expression, attributed to an alternate exon 3 3’ splice site generated by G/A polymorphism at position 781 within the exon 3. We conducted a thorough analysis of the splicing patterns of C*03:23N, and revealed multiple aberrant splicing, including the exon 3 alternative splicing, which overshadowed its canonical counterpart. After confirming a significant reduction in RNA levels caused by the G781A alteration in our ectopic assay, we probed the function of the G-rich sequence preceding the canonical exon 3 3’ splice site. Substituting the G-rich sequence with a typical pyrimidine-rich 3’ splice site sequence on C*03:23N resulted in a marked elevation in RNA levels, likely due to the enhanced preference for the canonical exon 3 3’ splice site over the alternate site. However, the same substitution led to a reduction in RNA levels for C*03:03:01. These findings suggested the dual roles of the G-rich sequence in RNA expression, and furthermore, underscore the importance of studying polymorphism effects within the framework of the entire gene, extending beyond conventional mini-gene reporter assays.
A review of mechanically stimulated bioluminescence of marine plankton and its applications
Authors: Letendre Francis , Twardowski Michael , Blackburn Abigail , Poulin Carina , Latz Michael I.
Published: January 2024

Bioluminescence is ubiquitous in marine ecosystems and found in uni- and multicellular organisms. Bioluminescent displays can be used to deter predators, attract mates, and lure and hunt prey. Mechanically stimulated flash kinetics of zooplankton and dinoflagellates are life stage-dependent and species-specific, and could prove effective at identification and monitoring biodiversity in bioluminescent species. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of mechanically stimulated bioluminescence for the main dinoflagellate and zooplankton clades in marine environments and assemble known flash kinetics and spectral emission data. Instruments and methods used in measuring bioluminescence are also discussed. Applications, research gaps, perspectives, and biases in approaches to studying bioluminescence are identified. Moreover, emission kinetics of most zooplankton are very poorly known and constitute a critical gap. Lastly, available knowledge is interpreted in terms of potential future changes in global bioluminescence driven by climate change.
Dermatologic toxicities in epidermal growth factor receptor: a comprehensive pharmacovigilance study from 2013 to 2023
Authors: Dan Hanyu , Jiang Qiang , Jia Xiangnan , Qi Guanpeng , Zong Dongsheng , Li Zuojing
Published: January 2024

Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs) induced cutaneous toxicity is a common adverse event (AE), although it is not as severe as major cancers, we still need to pay enough attention to them. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the diversity of EGFRI class drugs. The objective of this study was to conduct a scientific and systematic investigation into the correlation between EGFRI and cutaneous toxicities. The data accessed from the FDA adverse event reporting system database (FAERS) encompass a time frame spanning from January 2013 to March 2023. By utilizing reporting odds ratios (RORs), information components (ICs), proportional reporting ratios (PRRs), and chi-squared (χ2), the relationship between drugs and adverse reactions was evaluated through disproportionality analysis. Within the FAERS database, a total of 29,559 skin adverse events were recorded. A robust indication of the correlation between EGFRI and elderly patients (≥65 years) was identified. Among EGFRIs, erlotinib accounted for the largest proportion of skin adverse events (39.72%). Rash, dry skin, and pruritus ranked top among all preferred terms, and signals such as rash, skin lesions, and acneiform dermatitis were detected in every single drug. Clinicians should guide patients customize the treatment plan for each patient.
An in vitro study of the effects of respiratory circuit setup and parameters on aerosol delivery during mechanical ventilation
Authors: Reilly Leanne , Mac Giolla Eain Marc , Murphy Sarah , O’Sullivan Andrew , Joyce Mary , MacLoughlin Ronan
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Aerosol therapy is often prescribed concurrently during invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). This study determines the effects of nebuliser position, circuit humidification source, and most importantly, lung health on the delivery of aerosol in simulated adult and paediatric IMV patients. Furthermore, the influence of closed suction catheters on aerosol delivery is also addressed.

Methods

A vibrating mesh nebuliser was used to deliver Albuterol to simulated adult and paediatric IMV patients with differing states of lung health. Four different nebuliser positions and two types of humidification were analysed. Closed suction catheter mounts, a mainstay in IMV therapy, were incorporated into the circuits. The mean ± SD dose of aerosol (%) was assayed from a filter at the distal end of the endotracheal tube.

Results

Nebuliser placement and circuit humidification source had no effect on the delivered dose (%) in adults, yet both significantly did in the simulated paediatric patients. The use of closed suction catheter mounts significantly reduced the delivered dose (%) in adults but not in paediatric patients. A simulated healthy lung state generated the largest delivered dose (%), irrespective of nebuliser position in the adult. However, different lung health and nebuliser positions yielded higher delivered doses (%) in paediatrics.

Conclusion

Lung health and respiratory circuit composition significantly affect aerosol delivery in both adult and paediatric IMV patients. Nebuliser placement and respiratory circuit humidification source do not affect the delivered dose in adult but do in paediatric IMV patients.
Magnetic resonance imaging findings of intravascular leiomyomatosis of the uterus: a case report
Authors: Guo Bin , Zhao Shuhui , Li Juan , Wang Xiaoyan
Published: January 2024

Background

Intravascular leiomyomatosis (IVL) is often a non-malignant condition that grows inside the blood vessels and does not invade surrounding tissues. However, its presence within the blood vessels can lead to obstructions. The majority of IVL cases manifest symptoms related to blockage.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 50-year-old female patient who was referred to our institution due to the presence of a common non-cancerous tumor in the uterus, known as a benign uterine leiomyoma. The tumor was identified during an ultrasound examination during a routine physical examination. Postoperative pathology established the existence of intrapelvic IVL.

Conclusion

Intrapelvic IVL often not present with complications when it is confined to the pelvic cavity. Furthermore, the imaging features of intrapelvic IVL resemble those of typical benign uterine leiomyomas. This can often result in the clinical misdiagnosis of the tumor as a typical benign uterine leiomyoma.
Case report: Page kidney with multiple serosal effusions caused by bilateral spontaneous renal subcapsular hemorrhage
Authors: Wang Leibo , Qiu Zuze , Zhan Shun , Shi Guanyu , He Wei , Cen Zhuangding , Xu Feng , Tian Wu , Li Daobing
Published: January 2024

Page kidney is caused by the perirenal or subcapsular accumulation of blood or fluid pressing on the renal parenchyma and is a rare cause of secondary hypertension. In this study, we report a case of Page caused by bilateral spontaneous subcapsular renal hematoma, the main manifestations of which were secondary hypertension, multiple serous effusions, and renal insufficiency. After admission, drug blood pressure control was ineffective. After bilateral perirenal effusion puncture and drainage were performed to relieve bilateral perirenal compression, blood pressure gradually dropped to normal, multi-serous cavity effusion (pericardial, thoracic, and abdominal effusion) gradually disappeared, and kidney function returned to normal. Secondary hypertension caused by Page kidney can be treated. When Page kidney is complicated with multiple serous effusions, the effect of antihypertensive drugs alone is poor, and early perineal puncture drainage can achieve better clinical efficacy.
Both symbionts and environmental factors contribute to shape the microbiota in a pest insect, Sogatella furcifera
Authors: Yang Kun , Zhang Hua-Yue , Wang Peng , Jin Gui-Xiu , Chu Dong
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Bacterial symbionts are prevalent in arthropods globally and play a vital role in the fitness and resistance of hosts. While several symbiont infections have been identified in the white-backed planthopper Sogatella furcifera, the impact of environmental factors on the microbiota within S. furcifera remains elusive.

Methods

In this study, a total of 142 S. furcifera individuals from 18 populations were collected from 14 locations across six countries (China, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos) analyzed with 2bRAD-M sequencing, to examine the effects of symbionts on the microbiota in the S. furcifera population, as well as the vital effects of environmental factors on the bacterial communities.

Results and discussion

Based on the results, in S. furcifera, the presence of symbionts Wolbachia and Cardinium negatively influenced the abundance of other bacteria, including Enterobacter, Acinetobacter, and Lysinibacillus, while Wolbachia infection significantly decreased the diversity of the microbial community. Moreover, several environmental factors, including longitude, latitude, temperature, and precipitation, affected the abundance of symbionts and microbiota diversity in S. furcifera. These results collectively highlight the vital role of Wolbachia in S. furcifera microbiota, as well as the intricate effects of environmental factors on the bacterial communities of S. furcifera.
The FGG c.952G>A variant causes congenital dysfibrinogenemia characterized by recurrent cerebral infarction: a case report
Authors: Ying Anna , Zhou Yuanlin , Wang Chunyue , Wang Tao , Zhang Xuan , Wang Shanshan , Ke Shaofa , Bao Yuyan , Liu Yang , Wang Feng
Published: January 2024

Background

Congenital dysfibrinogenemia (CD) is a rare hereditary coagulation disorder resulting from mutations in fibrinogen genes. CD primarily presents with bleeding symptoms, but it can also lead to thrombotic events, including ischemic stroke.

Case presentation

This report describes the case of a 52-year-old Chinese man who was admitted to the hospital twice due to recurrent cerebral infarction, characterized by sudden speech impairment and weakness in the right upper extremity. Brain MRI revealed multiple ischemic changes, predominantly in the left frontal and parietal lobes. Coagulation tests demonstrated reduced plasma fibrinogen (Clauss method), prolonged prothrombin time and thrombin time, and an elevated international normalized ratio. However, the ELISA assay indicated elevated levels of fibrinogen γ-chain protein. Despite a 2-month-old treatment regimen with aspirin, clopidogrel, and atorvastatin after the first hospitalization, the patient experienced a second ischemic stroke. Genetic analysis using whole-exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing identified a rare heterozygous missense variation, FGG c.952G>A (rs267606810), in both the stroke patient and his asymptomatic sister. Both individuals exhibited the same alterations in fibrinogen, characterized by reduced functional levels but increased antigenic protein. Subsequently, the patient was diagnosed with ischemic stroke associated with congenital dysfibrinogenemia.

Conclusion

This case report expands the clinical phenotype spectrum associated with FGG c.952G>A (rs267606810) and underscores the significance of considering CD as a potential etiology for unexplained ischemic stroke, particularly in patients with a family history of coagulation disorders.
Training multi-layer spiking neural networks with plastic synaptic weights and delays
Authors: Wang Jing
Published: January 2024

Spiking neural networks are usually considered as the third generation of neural networks, which hold the potential of ultra-low power consumption on corresponding hardware platforms and are very suitable for temporal information processing. However, how to efficiently train the spiking neural networks remains an open question, and most existing learning methods only consider the plasticity of synaptic weights. In this paper, we proposed a new supervised learning algorithm for multiple-layer spiking neural networks based on the typical SpikeProp method. In the proposed method, both the synaptic weights and delays are considered as adjustable parameters to improve both the biological plausibility and the learning performance. In addition, the proposed method inherits the advantages of SpikeProp, which can make full use of the temporal information of spikes. Various experiments are conducted to verify the performance of the proposed method, and the results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves a competitive learning performance compared with the existing related works. Finally, the differences between the proposed method and the existing mainstream multi-layer training algorithms are discussed.
Monitoring response to neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer in all treatment phases using an ultrasound deep learning model
Authors: Zhang Jingwen , Deng Jingwen , Huang Jin , Mei Liye , Liao Ni , Yao Feng , Lei Cheng , Sun Shengrong , Zhang Yimin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the value of a deep learning model (DLM) based on breast tumor ultrasound image segmentation in predicting pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in breast cancer.

Methods

The dataset contains a total of 1393 ultrasound images of 913 patients from Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, of which 956 ultrasound images of 856 patients were used as the training set, and 437 ultrasound images of 57 patients underwent NAC were used as the test set. A U-Net-based end-to-end DLM was developed for automatically tumor segmentation and area calculation. The predictive abilities of the DLM, manual segmentation model (MSM), and two traditional ultrasound measurement methods (longest axis model [LAM] and dual-axis model [DAM]) for pathological complete response (pCR) were compared using changes in tumor size ratios to develop receiver operating characteristic curves.

Results

The average intersection over union value of the DLM was 0.856. The early-stage ultrasound-predicted area under curve (AUC) values of pCR were not significantly different from those of the intermediate and late stages (p< 0.05). The AUCs for MSM, DLM, LAM and DAM were 0.840, 0.756, 0.778 and 0.796, respectively. There was no significant difference in AUC values of the predictive ability of the four models.

Conclusion

Ultrasonography was predictive of pCR in the early stages of NAC. DLM have a similar predictive value to conventional ultrasound for pCR, with an add benefit in effectively improving workflow.
Unilateral hippocampal sparing during whole brain radiotherapy for multiple brain metastases: narrative and critical review
Authors: Pospisil Petr , Hynkova Ludmila , Hnidakova Lucie , Maistryszinova Jana , Slampa Pavel , Kazda Tomas
Published: January 2024

Background

The landscape of brain metastases radiotherapy is evolving, with a shift away from whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) toward targeted stereotactic approaches aimed at preserving neurocognitive functions and maintaining overall quality of life. For patients with multiple metastases, especially in cases where targeted radiotherapy is no longer feasible due to widespread dissemination, the concept of hippocampal sparing radiotherapy (HA_WBRT) gains prominence.

Methods

In this narrative review we explore the role of the hippocampi in memory formation and the implications of their postradiotherapy lateral damage. We also consider the potential advantages of selectively sparing one hippocampus during whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT). Additionally, by systematic evaluation of relevant papers published on PubMed database over last 20 years, we provide a comprehensive overview of the various changes that can occur in the left or right hippocampus as a consequence of radiotherapy.

Results

While it is important to note that various neurocognitive functions are interconnected throughout the brain, we can discern certain specialized roles of the hippocampi. The left hippocampus appears to play a predominant role in verbal memory, whereas the right hippocampus is associated more with visuospatial memory. Additionally, the anterior part of the hippocampus is more involved in episodic memory and emotional processing, while the posterior part is primarily responsible for spatial memory and pattern separation. Notably, a substantial body of evidence demonstrates a significant correlation between post-radiotherapy changes in the left hippocampus and subsequent cognitive decline in patients.

Conclusion

In the context of individualized palliative radiotherapy, sparing the unilateral (specifically, the left, which is dominant in most individuals) hippocampus could expand the repertoire of strategies available for adapted WBRT in cases involving multiple brain metastases where stereotactic radiotherapy is not a viable option. Prospective ongoing studies assessing various memory-sparing radiotherapy techniques will define new standard of radiotherapy care of patients with multiple brain metastases.
Case report: Unilateral paralysis of the hypoglossal nerve as the only clinical sign of clivus meningioma - a case report and literature review
Authors: Stamenović Jelena , Živadinović Biljana , Đurić Vanja
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Clivus meningiomas are benign tumors that occur at the skull base in the posterior cranial fossa. Symptoms usually progress several months or years before diagnosis and may include: headache, vertigo, hearing impairment, ataxia with gait disturbances, sensory problems. In the neurological findings, paralysis of the lower cranial nerves is most often seen, which in the later course can be accompanied by cerebellar and pyramidal signs until the development of a consciousness impairment.

Case presentation

We presented the case of a patient who at the time of diagnosis had only unilateral hypoglossal nerve paralysis with dysarthria and mild dysphagia. After the neurosurgical procedure, pathohistological analysis confirmed meningothelial meningioma.

Conclusion

Early recognition of clivus tumors, which include meningiomas, is necessary in order to implement an adequate therapeutic procedure and prevent further deterioration of the patient’s condition.
Progress of Ginsenoside Rb1 in neurological disorders
Authors: Ling Gongxia , Zhang Min , Chen Chizhang , Wang Yan , Gao Qiqi , Li Jianshun , Yuan Hao , Jin Wenwen , Lin Wei , Yang Lingrong
Published: January 2024

Ginseng is frequently used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat neurological disorders. The primary active component of ginseng is ginsenoside, which has been classified into more than 110 types based on their chemical structures. Ginsenoside Rb1 (GsRb1)—a protopanaxadiol saponin and a typical ginseng component—exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-autophagy properties in the nervous system. Neurological disorders remain a leading cause of death and disability globally. GsRb1 effectively treats neurological disorders. To contribute novel insights to the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders, we present a comprehensive review of the pharmacokinetics, actions, mechanisms, and research development of GsRb1 in neurological disorders.
Evolution of local computing time in parallel modeling of mobile networks
Authors: Zhukova L. F. , Shchur L. N.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The study concerns the properties of a parallel discrete-event simulation (PDES) model, namely a simple mobile network model known as a personal communication service (PCS) model. In this type of parallel computing, each process has its own computation time, known as local virtual time. The local virtual times change during the simulation process, forming a complex profile similar to the surface growth profile in physics.

Methods: We apply the scaling theory of statistical physics to study the properties of the PCS model. We construct a simple local virtual time evolution algorithm for the PCS model and compare this theoretical time evolution model to a standard parallel mobile network implementation in Rensselaer’s Optimistic Simulation System (ROSS).

Results: We show that the value of the critical exponent for the mobile network system is close to the value in the theoretical local virtual time profile model. A roughening transition is found in the LVT–PCS model, which belongs to the universality class of directed percolation in dimension 2 + 1.

Discussion: We believe that the analogies we found can be useful for preliminary analyses of scalability, process desynchronization, and possible deadlocks in a wide class of parallel discrete-event simulation models.
Reinforcing or moderating? The impact of Brexit on Italian and German Euroscepticism
Authors: Orlando Vittorio , Conrad Maximilian
Published: January 2024

This article investigates the impact of Brexit on Eurosceptic parties' arguments for leaving (or remaining in) the European Union (EU). Drawing on a comparative design, the article looks at the images and narratives of the EU that Eurosceptic parties in Italy and Germany have advanced in the aftermath of the 2016 Brexit referendum and reflects on the broader implications in terms of the prospects of further states leaving the EU. This research is motivated by two assumptions grounded in the literature on Euroscepticism and EU polity contestation: firstly, that Euroscepticism is fuelled by external circumstances that are exploited by interested political actors; and secondly, that both the Brexit referendum and the UK's departure from the EU have had a profound impact on discourses on the EU within member states, most importantly because this process has highlighted the real possibility of replacing EU membership with trade agreements and other specific arrangements. By means of a comparative analysis of the development of Eurosceptic discourse in Italy and Germany after Brexit, the article reveals that on the structural level, Eurozone membership remains the main obstacle to leaving the EU. Yet on the ideological level, Eurosceptic discourse in the two countries centers on two principles that are at odds with each other. Beyond the alleged lack of democratic representation within EU institutions that is pointed out by Eurosceptic parties in both countries, the main criticism of the EU project in Germany is that the country shares the costs of states with lower economic outputs. In Italy, on the other hand, the criticism is that the EU benefits wealthier states while constraining the country's opportunities for development.
Embodiment of infinity in mathematics
Authors: Khatin-Zadeh Omid , Farsani Danyal , Eskandari Zahra
Published: January 2024

In this article, we discuss the embodiment of infinity as one of fundamental concepts in mathematics. In contrast to the embodiment of many other mathematical concepts, the embodiment of infinity is an endless dynamic process. In embodying +∞, an object moves rightward toward a previously-set limit and passes it. Then, a new limit is set on the right side of the moving object. The moving object continues its movement and passes it as well. The moving object can pass any limit. In other words, there is no impassable limit for it. In embodying -∞, a similar process happens but the movement is leftward. Embodiment of infinitely small quantities has a basic similarity to the embodiment of infinitely large quantities, although it is different in some respects. We call the embodiment of infinity as iterative embodiment. It is iterative because the process of setting a new limit and passing it is repeated endlessly. Finally, it is suggested that in the process of embodying infinitely large and infinitely small quantities, the visual system and the motor system play important roles, as this process involves spatial concepts and movement.
The role of speech style, frequency, and density in recognition memory for spoken words
Authors: Pycha Anne , Culleton Tessa , Song Jae Yung
Published: January 2024

What determines whether listeners remember a spoken word? The Effortfulness Hypothesis claims that memory is modulated by a word’s intelligibility during real-time processing, while the Distinctiveness Hypothesis claims that it is modulated by a word’s distinguishing characteristics. We tested these differing predictions using American English words that varied along three dimensions known to affect both intelligibility and distinctiveness: speech style (clear versus casual), frequency (high versus low), and neighborhood density (high versus low). In a recognition memory experiment, participants (n = 66) listened to a set of study words, and then gave yes/no judgments to indicate whether or not they had heard the word earlier. Results showed that those words which exhibited distinctive characteristics – whether due to clear speech style, low frequency, or low density – were remembered better. The finding supports the Distinctiveness Hypothesis, suggesting that our capacity for remembering words relies on their distinctiveness, rather than on our capacity for recognizing them in real time.
School bullying results in poor psychological conditions: evidence from a survey of 95,545 subjects
Authors: Zhao Na , Yang Shenglong , Zhang Qiangjian , Wang Jian , Xie Wei , Tan Youguo , Zhou Tao
Published: January 2024

To investigate whether bullying and psychological conditions are correlated, this study analyzed a survey of primary and secondary school students from Zigong City, Sichuan Province. A total of 95,545 students completed a personal information questionnaire, the Multidimensional Peer-Victimization Scale (MPVS), and eight other scales pertaining to various psychological problems. The data showed that 68,315 (71.5%) participants experienced school bullying at varying degrees, indicating the prevalence of bullying among adolescents. The chi-square tests revealed a strong correlation between school bullying and psychological conditions. This correlation was further explored through multivariate logistic regression, showing that students who experienced mild bullying had a 3.10 times higher probability of emotional and behavioral problems, 4.06 times higher probability of experiencing prodromal symptoms of mental illness, 4.72 times higher probability of anxiety, 3.28 times higher probability of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), 4.07 times higher probability of poor sleep quality, 3.13 times higher probability of internet addiction, 2.18 times higher probability of poor mental health, and 3.64 times higher probability of depression than students who did not experience bullying. The corresponding probabilities for students who experienced severe bullying were 11.35, 17.35, 18.52, 12.59, 11.67, 12.03, 4.64, and 5.34 times higher, respectively. In conclusion, school bullying and psychological conditions are significantly correlated among primary and secondary school students, and the more severe the bullying, the higher the probability to suffer from psychological problems.
Traditional activities and general and mental health of adult Indigenous peoples living off-reserve in Canada
Authors: Kassem Hallah , Harris M. Anne , Edwards-Wheesk Ruby , Liberda Eric N.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

We examined associations between traditional Indigenous activities and self-perceived general and mental health in adult Indigenous persons living off-reserve in Canada using the 2012 and 2017 Aboriginal Peoples Surveys (APS), the two most recent datasets. We utilized four traditional Indigenous activities including hunting, making clothes or footwear, making arts or crafts, and gathering wild plants to investigate these self-reported data.

Methods

Data from 9,430 and 12,598 respondents from the 2012 and 2017 APS, respectively, who responded to 15 questions concerning traditional activities were assessed using multivariable logistic regression to produce odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Covariates included age, sex, education-level, income-level, Indigenous identity, residential school connection, ability to speak an Indigenous language, smoking status, and alcohol consumption frequency.

Results

Using the 2012 APS, clothes-making was associated with poor self-reported general (OR = 1.50, 95%CI: 1.12–1.99) and mental (OR = 1.59, 95%CI: 1.14–2.21) health. Hunting was associated with good mental health (OR = 0.71 95%CI: 0.56–0.93). Similarly, 2017 analyses found clothes-making associated with poor general health (OR = 1.25, 95%CI: 1.01–1.54), and hunting associated with good general (OR = 0.76, 95%CI: 0.64–0.89) and mental (OR = 0.69, 95%CI: 0.58–0.81) health. Artmaking was associated with poor general (OR = 1.37, 95%CI: 1.17–1.60) and mental (OR = 1.85, 95%CI: 1.58–2.17) health.

Conclusion

Hunting had protective relationships with mental and general health, which may reflect benefits of participation or engagement of healthier individuals in this activity. Clothes-making and artmaking were associated with poor general and poor mental health, possibly representing reverse causation as these activities are often undertaken therapeutically. These findings have implications for future research, programs and policies concerning Indigenous health.