bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-world experience with calcitonin gene-related peptide-targeted antibodies for migraine prevention: a retrospective observational cohort study at two Japanese headache centers
Authors: Shibata Mamoru , Fujita Kazuki , Hoshino Eri , Minami Kazushi , Koizumi Kenzo , Okada Satoshi , Sakai Fumihiko
Published: January 2024

Background

Although randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-targeted monoclonal antibodies (CGRP mAbs) are an efficacious and safe therapeutic modality for migraine prevention, their clinical benefits have not been well validated in Japanese patients in the real-world setting. The present study aimed to evaluate the real-world efficacy and safety of galcanezumab, fremanezumab, and erenumab in Japanese patients with migraine.

Methods

This observational retrospective cohort study was conducted at two headache centers in Japan. Patients with migraine who had experienced treatment failure with at least one traditional oral migraine preventive agent were treated with a CGRP mAb de novo. The primary efficacy endpoints were the changes from baseline in monthly migraine days (MMDs) and Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6) score after 3 dosing intervals (V3). We explored whether demographic and clinical characteristics predicted therapeutic outcomes at V3.

Results

Sixty-eight patients who completed three doses of a CGRP mAb (85.3% female [58/68], mean age: 46.2 ± 13.1 years) were included in the analysis. There were 19 patients with chronic migraine. The baseline MMDs were 13.4 ± 6.0. After 3 doses, the MMDs significantly decreased to 7.4 ± 5.5 (p < 0.0001), and the 50% response rate was 50.0%. HIT-6 score was significantly reduced from 66.7 ± 5.4 to 56.2 ± 8.7 after 3 doses (P = 0.0001). There was a positive correlation between the changes in MMDs and HIT-6 score from baseline after 2 doses (p = 0.0189). Those who achieved a ≥ 50% therapeutic response after the first and second doses were significantly more likely to do so at V3 (crude odds ratio: 3.474 [95% CI: 1.037 to 10.4], p = 0.0467). The most frequent adverse event was constipation (7.4%). None of the adverse events were serious, and there was no need for treatment discontinuation.

Conclusions

This real-world study demonstrated that CGRP mAbs conferred Japanese patients with efficacious and safe migraine prevention, and an initial positive therapeutic response was predictive of subsequent favorable outcomes. Concomitant measurement of MMDs and HIT-6 score was useful in evaluating the efficacy of CGRP mAbs in migraine prevention.
Accelerated enhanced recovery after colon cancer surgery with discharge within one day after surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Sier Misha A. T. , Gielen Anke H. C. , Tweed Thaís T. T. , van Nie Noémi C. , Lubbers Tim , Stoot Jan H. M. B.
Published: January 2024

Background

Recent studies have demonstrated that accelerated enhanced recovery after colorectal surgery is feasible for specific patient populations. The accelerated enhanced recovery protocols (ERP) tend to vary, and the majority of studies included a small study population. This hampers defining the optimal protocol and establishing the potential benefits. This systematic review aimed to determine the effect of accelerated ERPs with intended discharge within one day after surgery.

Methods

PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science databases were searched using the following search terms: colon cancer, colon surgery, accelerated recovery, fast track recovery, enhanced recovery after surgery. Clinical trials published between January 2005 – February 2023, written in English or Dutch comparing accelerated ERPs to Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) care for adult patients undergoing elective laparoscopic or robotic surgery for colon cancer were eligible for inclusion.

Results

Thirteen studies, including one RCT were included. Accelerated ERPs after colorectal surgery was possible as LOS was shorter; 14 h to 3.4 days, and complication rate varied from 0–35.7% and readmission rate was 0–17% in the accelerated ERP groups. Risk of bias was serious or critical in most of the included studies.

Conclusions

Accelerated ERPs may not yet be considered the new standard of care as the current data is heterogenous, and data on important outcome measures is scarce. Nonetheless, the decreased LOS suggests that accelerated recovery is possible for selected patients. In addition, the complication and readmission rates were comparable to ERAS care, suggesting that accelerated recovery could be safe.
Prevalence of radiographic findings in chronic osteomyelitis
Authors: Tuon Felipe Francisco , Mendonça Celso Junio Aguiar , Gasperin Wagner , Zotto Willian Lassalvia , Sarolli Bruna Maria Stofela , da Costa Manuel Janice Alexandra , Cruz June Alisson Westarb , Soni Jamil Faissal
Published: January 2024

Background

Simple radiography in conjunction with pertinent medical history and a comprehensive physical examination is typically adequate for diagnosing chronic osteomyelitis (CO). However, radiographic manifestations of CO lack specificity; therefore, the concordance among specialists in this regard has not been systematically assessed. This study aimed to compare and evaluate the proficiency of orthopedic surgeons and radiologists in identifying radiographic indicators present in simple radiographs for diagnosing CO.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was a correlational investigation utilizing plain radiographs obtained from a cohort of 60 patients diagnosed with CO. Comprehensive assessments of the demographic and clinical characteristics, comorbidities, and microbiological parameters were conducted. Additional variables included the anatomical location of the CO, existence of fistulas, disease duration, and presence of pseudoarthrosis. This study meticulously documented the presence or absence of six specific findings: bone destruction, which incorporates erosion and radiolucencies around implants; bone sclerosis; cortical thinning concomitant with erosion; cortical thickening; sequestrum formation; and soft-tissue swelling.

Results

Most patients were men (75%), with a mean age of 45.1 years. Hematogenous etiology of CO represented 23%. Bone sclerosis (71.3%) and cortical thickening (67.7%) were the most common radiographic findings, followed by soft-tissue swelling (51.3%), sequestration (47.3%), bone destruction (33.3%), and cortical erosion (30.3%). The mean agreement was 74.2%, showing a marked disagreement rate of 25.8% among all radiographic findings. The presence or absence of soft tissue edema, a prominent radiographic finding that was more important than the other findings, showed the greatest disagreement.

Conclusions

Radiographic findings in CO were universally observed in all patients, demonstrating a high degree of concordance among specialists, with the exception of soft tissue swelling.
Sleep quality and fatigue among nurses working in high-acuity clinical settings in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alameri Rana Ali , Almulla Hebah A. , Al Swyan Afnan Hamad , Hammad Sama S.
Published: January 2024

Background

Poor sleep quality is prevalent among nurses worldwide. Around two-thirds of nurses doing shift work are known to experience sleep problems and fatigue. Fatigue and sleep problems are linked to poor performance, impaired alertness, injuries, chronic diseases, compromised healthcare quality, and medical errors, all of which detrimentally impact nurses and threaten patients’ safety. This area of research has received insufficient attention in Saudi Arabia; therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the levels of sleep quality and perceived fatigue and their association among nurses working in acute care settings in comprehensive hospitals in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Chalder Fatigue Scale. Data was obtained via an online questionnaire that was distributed to nurses using the QuestionPro platform through hospital administrators, social media (WhatsApp), and personal contact.

Results

A total of 173 nurses completed the online survey. Most participants reported poor sleep quality (n = 127, 73.4%) and severe perceived fatigue (n = 156, 90.2%). Furthermore, the study revealed a significant correlation between the overall sleep disturbance and fatigue global scores (r = 0.57, P < 0.001), indicating that poor sleep quality was significantly associated with higher fatigue levels among the study sample.

Conclusions

The current study found a significant association between sleep quality and severe fatigue in nurses working in high acute care settings in Saudi Arabia. It is very clear from the results that nurses are experiencing poor sleep and severe fatigue, which in turn, will negatively impact the nurse’s quality of life and patient safety.
The impact of different levels of wheat diets on hepatic oxidative stress, immune response, and lipid metabolism in Tibetan sheep (Ovis aries)
Authors: Ma Boyan , Raza Sayed Haidar Abbas , Pant Sameer D. , Gao Zhanhong , Zhang Fengshuo , Wang Zhiyou , Hou Shengzhen , Alkhateeb Mariam Abdulaziz , Al Abdulmonem Waleed , Alharbi Yousef Mesfer , Aljohani Abdullah S. M. , Gui Linsheng
Published: January 2024

Background

Compared with corn, wheat contains higher crude protein, amino acids concentration. However, wheat contains a mass of anti-nutritional factors, resulting in increased of the digesta viscosity and impaired the intestinal function in ruminant.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effects of substitution of different amounts of wheat for corn on hepatic metabolism in the Tibetan lamb.

Methods

Ninety Tibetan lambs (Body weight = 12.37 ± 0.92 kg) were randomly assigned to three groups: 0% wheat diet (Control), 10% wheat diet (Low group), and 15% wheat diet (High group). The feeding trial lasted for 130 d, including a 10 d adaption period. Hepatic gene expression profiling was performed via RNA sequencing after the conclusion of the feeding trials.

Results

Results showed that greater level of glutathione peroxidase levels in L group compared with those of the C and H groups (P < 0.05). The immune indexes, including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), immunoglobulin A (IgA), and IgM were also elevated in L group compared with the other groups (P < 0.05). Compared with H group, the hepatocytes were arranged radially, and hepatic plates anastomosed with each other to form a labyrinth-like structure in L group. Transcriptomic analysis showed 872 differentially expressed genes (DEG) between H and L group, of which 755 were down-regulated and 117 were up-regulated. Through Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, 32 pathways were significantly enriched (Q-value < 0.05), such as the cAMP signaling pathway, Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation, leukocyte transendothelial migration, platelet activation and adipocytokine signaling pathway. Additionally, the expression of comment DEGs were verified via quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Conclusion

In summary, our findings suggest that wheat can be supplemented up to 10% in Tibetan sheep, contributing to improve the hepatic oxidative stress, immune response and lipid metabolism through regulating the expression of related genes.
Thermosensitive hydrogel with emodin-loaded triple-targeted nanoparticles for a rectal drug delivery system in the treatment of chronic non-bacterial prostatitis
Authors: Ye Yan , Zhong Wenzhen , Luo Ruifeng , Wen Hongzhi , Ma Ziyang , Qi Shanshan , Han Xiaoqin , Nie Wenbiao , Chang Degui , Xu Runchun , Ye Naijing , Gao Fei , Zhang Peihai
Published: January 2024

Background

The complex etiology and pathogenesis underlying Chronic Non-Bacterial Prostatitis (CNP), coupled with the existence of a Blood Prostate Barrier (BPB), contribute to a lack of specificity and poor penetration of most drugs. Emodin (EMO), a potential natural compound for CNP treatment, exhibits commendable anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-fibrosis properties but suffers from the same problems as other drugs.

Methods

By exploiting the recognition properties of lactoferrin (LF) receptors that target intestinal epithelial cells (NCM-460) and prostate epithelial cells (RWPE-1), a pathway is established for the transrectal absorption of EMO to effectively reach the prostate. Additionally, hyaluronic acid (HA) is employed, recognizing CD44 receptors which target macrophages within the inflamed prostate. This interaction facilitates the intraprostatic delivery of EMO, leading to its pronounced anti-inflammatory effects. A thermosensitive hydrogel (CS-Gel) prepared from chitosan (CS) and β-glycerophosphate disodium salt (β-GP) was used for rectal drug delivery with strong adhesion to achieve effective drug retention and sustained slow release. Thus, we developed a triple-targeted nanoparticle (NPs)/thermosensitive hydrogel (Gel) rectal drug delivery system. In this process, LF, with its positive charge, was utilized to load EMO through dialysis, producing LF@EMO-NPs. Subsequently, HA was employed to encapsulate EMO-loaded LF nanoparticles via electrostatic adsorption, yielding HA/LF@EMO-NPs. Finally, HA/LF@EMO-NPs lyophilized powder was added to CS-Gel (HA/LF@EMO-NPs Gel).

Results

Cellular assays indicated that NCM-460 and RWPE-1 cells showed high uptake of both LF@EMO-NPs and HA/LF@EMO-NPs, while Raw 264.7 cells exhibited substantial uptake of HA/LF@EMO-NPs. For LPS-induced Raw 264.7 cells, HA/LF@EMO-NPs can reduce the inflammatory responses by modulating TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathways. Tissue imaging corroborated the capacity of HA/LF-modified formulations to breach the BPB, accumulating within the gland's lumen. Animal experiments showed that rectal administration of HA/LF@EMO-NPs Gel significantly reduced inflammatory cytokine expression, oxidative stress levels and fibrosis in the CNP rats, in addition to exerting anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway without obvious toxicity.

Conclusion

This triple-targeted NPs/Gel rectal delivery system with slow-release anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-fibrosis properties shows great potential for the effective treatment of CNP.

Graphical Abstract
Left-sided appendicitis managed laparoscopically: a case report
Authors: AlKeileh Tamara B. , Elsayed Sali , Adam Raheemah Mahomed , Nour Mozamil , Bhagchandi Tarun
Published: January 2024

Background

Appendicitis is one of the most common causes of acute abdominal pain and remains the most common abdominal-related emergency seen in emergency room that needs urgent surgery (Yang et al. in J Emerg Med 43:980–2, 2012. 10.1016/j.jemermed.2010.11.056, Wickramasinghe et al. in World J Surg 45:1999–2008, 2021. 10.1007/s00268-021-06077-5). The characteristic presentation is a vague epigastric or periumbilical discomfort or pain that migrates to the lower right quadrant in 50% of cases. Other related symptoms, such as nausea, anorexia, vomiting, and change in bowel habits, occur in varying percentages. The diagnosis is usually reached through comprehensive history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and radiological investigations as needed. Nowadays, computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis is considered the modality of choice for definitive assessment of patients being evaluated for possible appendicitis. Anatomical variations or an ectopic appendix are rarely reported or highlighted in literature.

Case presentation

Left-sided appendicitis is a rare (Hu et al. in Front Surg 2022. 10.3389/fsurg.2022.896116) and atypical presentation and has rarely been reported. The majority of these cases are associated with congenital midgut malrotation, situs inversus, or an extremely long appendix (Akbulut et al. in World J Gastroenterol 16:5598-5602, 2010. 10.3748/wjg.v16.i44.5598). This case is of significance to raise awareness regarding an anatomical variation of the appendix that might delay or mislead diagnosis of appendicitis and to confirm safety of a laparoscopic approach in dealing with a left-sided appendicitis case (Yang et al. in J Emerg Med 43:980–2, 2012. 10.1016/j.jemermed.2010.11.056). We report a case of left-sided appendicitis in a 12-year-old child managed successfully via a laparoscopic approach.

Conclusion

Appendicitis remains the most common abdominal-related emergency that needs urgent surgery (Akbulut et al. in World J Gastroenterol 16:5598–5602, 2010. 10.3748/wjg.v16.i44.5598). Left-sided appendicitis is a rare (Hu et al. in Front Surg 2022. 10.3389/fsurg.2022.896116, Hu et al. in Front Surg 9:896116, 2022. 10.3389/fsurg.2022.896116) and atypical presentation and has rarely been reported. Awareness regarding an anatomical variation of the appendix and diagnostic modalities on a computed tomography scan help avoid delay in diagnosis and management of such a rare entity (Vieira et al. in J Coloproctol 39(03):279–287, 2019. 10.1016/j.jcol.2019.04.003). A laparoscopic approach is a safe approach for management of left-sided appendicitis (Yang et al. in J Emerg Med 43:980–2, 2012. 10.1016/j.jemermed.2010.11.056, Hu et al. in Front Surg 9:896116, 2022. 10.3389/fsurg.2022.896116).
Transcultural adaptation and validation of a Korea version of Pedi-IKDC questionnaire
Authors: Kim Woo Sub , Won Seung Hyun , Moon Seo Ho , Oh Min Joon , Park Moon Seok , Sung Ki Hyuk
Published: January 2024

Background

This study aimed to translate and transculturally adapt the English version of the Pedi-IKDC questionnaire into Korean and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Korean Pedi-IKDC questionnaire in terms of internal consistency, feasibility (floor and ceiling effect), construct validity, test-retest reliability, and factor analysis.

Methods

The original English version of the Pedi-IKDC questionnaire was translated and transculturally adapted into Korean according to established guidelines. A total of 239 patients aged 7–18 years who visited the hospital because of knee pain or discomfort were considered eligible for the study. These patients completed the Korean version of the Pedi-IKDC and Pediatric Quality of Life questionnaires (PedsQL). The correlation between the PedsQL and Pedi-IKDC questionnaires was assessed to confirm the validity of the questionnaire. To verify the validity of the Korean Pedi-IKDC questionnaire, internal consistency, feasibility, test-retest reliability, and construct validity were evaluated, and a factor analysis was performed.

Results

Internal consistency was found to be satisfactory in all subscales (Cronbach’s alpha ≥ 0.7). The test-retest reliability was satisfactorily high for all subscales (Intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.81–0.84). A high correlation was observed between the total Pedi-IKDC score and the score on the physical-health subscale of child version of the PedsQL (Correlation coefficients: 0.720). There were no floor effects in all subscales, but ceiling effects were observed in four questions. Additionally, factor analysis suggested that the questionnaire could be divided into two subscales.

Conclusion

The Korean version of the Pedi-IKDC questionnaire was successfully translated and transculturally adapted according to the established guidelines. The Korean Pedi-IKDC questionnaire has been proven reliable and valid.
Bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in three types of Korean watery kimchi
Authors: Park Hyosun , Kim Suna , Kim Jaecheol , Lee KyeongJin , Moon BoKyung
Published: January 2024

Watery kimchi is a traditional fermented food served with its soup. In this study, we collected 21 samples of yeolmu mul kimchi (YMK), dongchimi (DC), and nabak kimchi (NK), respectively, which are the most popular watery kimchi in Korea. A composite sample of each watery kimchi was prepared for estimation of their bioactive compounds and antioxidant activities. Of the three kimchi types, YMK had the highest total carotenoid content (63.78 ± 4.88 mg/100 g, of which lutein, capsanthin, and β-carotene were the main carotenoids), and DC had the lowest (3.50 ± 0.12 mg/100 g). YMK also had the highest contents of chlorophyll (250.1 ± 3.91 mg/100 g), ascorbic acid (447.16 ± 8.95 mg/100 g), and capsaicinoids (2.51 ± 0.09 mg/100 g) compared to DC and NK. The lactic acid content was highest in NK (582.72 ± 29.10 mg/100 g). Moreover, YMK showed significantly higher antioxidant activity (ABTS and DPPH) than DC and NK (p < 0.05). Chlorophyll and antioxidant activity showed a strong positive correlation (p < 0.01). The results of this study highlighted watery kimchi as a potentially valuable source of bioactive compounds, and the carotenoids and capsaicinoids were affected by the supporting ingredients used in watery kimchi. Furthermore, watery kimchi provides 4.11% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A according to the 2020 Korean dietary reference intakes.
Otherness measuring scale: design and validation for social sciences
Authors: Mateus Cirit , Jabba Daladier , Erazo Ana María , Aguaded Ignacio , Campis Rodrigo , Parody Alexander
Published: January 2024

This paper is the result of a scale validation process, applicable to social science research, which allows the constructs of otherness and coexistence and their relationship to be trasnformed into measurable, systematized variables. In turn, this scale is the product of a research project whose main objectives were (i) to demonstrate the relationship between coexistence as an independent variable and otherness as a dependent variable, and (ii) to create and statistically validate a scale to measure both variables, so to use it in applied research. The sample consisted of 600 participants. Three instruments were used: two semantic differentials and a 33-item questionnaire. The application was carried out virtually due to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The method includes a mixed type of work, i.e., qualitative, and quantitative procedures. The results showed two factors, the other as strange or foreign and the other as equal. The final scale consisted of 10 items, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.86 and variance explaining 58% of the otherness.
IFNγ drives neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration in a mouse model of multiple system atrophy
Authors: Corbin-Stein Nicole J. , Childers Gabrielle M. , Webster Jhodi M. , Zane Asta , Yang Ya-Ting , Mudium Nikhita , Gupta Rajesh , Manfredsson Fredric P. , Kordower Jeffrey H. , Harms Ashley S.
Published: January 2024

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare and fatal synucleinopathy characterized by insoluble alpha-synuclein (α-syn) cytoplasmic inclusions located within oligodendroglia. Neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration are correlated with areas of glia cytoplasmic inclusions (GCI) pathology, however it is not known what specifically drives disease pathogenesis. Recent studies have shown that disease pathologies found in post-mortem tissue from MSA patients can be modeled in rodents via a modified AAV overexpressing α-syn, Olig001-SYN, which has a 95% tropism for oligodendrocytes. In the Olig001-SYN mouse model, CD4+ T cells have been shown to drive neuroinflammation and demyelination, however the mechanism by which this occurs remains unclear. In this study we use genetic and pharmacological approaches in the Olig001-SYN model of MSA to show that the pro-inflammatory cytokine interferon gamma (IFNγ) drives neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. Furthermore, using an IFNγ reporter mouse, we found that infiltrating CD4+ T cells were the primary producers of IFNγ in response to α-syn overexpression in oligodendrocytes. Results from these studies indicate that IFNγ expression from CD4+ T cells drives α-syn-mediated neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. These results indicate that targeting IFNγ expression may be a potential disease modifying therapeutic strategy for MSA.
The subjective and objective quality of life score (SOQOLTM) for the quantification of general health status: a preliminary study with initial normative population values
Authors: Mobbs Ralph J. , Fonseka R. Dineth , Natarajan Pragadesh , Koinis Lianne , Maharaj Monish
Published: January 2024

Background

Established health-related quality of life scores do not consider both subjective and objective indices of health. We propose the subjective and objective quality of life score (SOQOL) for the comprehensive assessment of health-related quality of life and aim to provide normative population data. The SOQOL is compatible with smartphone applications, allowing widespread use on a global scale.

Methods

Normative SOQOL population data was sourced from pre-existing datasets on the EQ-5D-5L, daily step count, and walking speed. Normative values were calculated using weighted grand means. We trialled the SOQOL in a group of five patients presenting to a spinal neurosurgery clinic.

Results

SOQOL scores decreased with age, and women had lower scores in every age group. In our case series, the spine patients with the biggest SOQOL deficit compared to age- and sex-matched population averages were found to be surgical while the rest were non-surgical.

Conclusions

The SOQOL shows promise as a simple and effective scoring tool that is compatible with smartphones, potentially useful for screening in primary and specialized care settings, and for assessment following healthcare interventions. This study, however, is preliminary, and the findings are primarily suggestive. They underline the necessity for future, more comprehensive studies to validate and expand upon these initial observations. The conclusion of both this abstract and the full paper will clearly state these limitations and the preliminary nature of the study.
Clinical significance of long non-coding RNA NORAD in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Zhao Xueru , Lin Weiyi , Zhou Wenhui
Published: January 2024

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that may cause joint deformities and seriously affect the normal life of the patients. In order to enable patients to receive timely attention and treatment, this study developed new diagnostic markers by exploring the expression and molecular mechanism of the long non-coding RNA NORAD (NORAD) in RA.

Methods

Participants including 77 RA patients and 52 healthy persons were enrolled, and the corresponding clinical data and serum samples were obtained. The NORAD and miR-204-5p expression were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The content of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) were determined through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Luciferase activity reporter assay demonstrated the association between NORAD and miR-204-5p. In addition, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of NORAD, and Pearson’s correlation analysis was applied for the correlation analysis.

Results

NORAD was enriched in RA serum with high diagnostic value. Simultaneously, IL-6 and TNF-α levels were also upregulated (P < 0.001). The C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (Anti-CCP) levels in RA patients were generally elevated (P < 0.001). NORAD was positively correlated with the levels of clinical indicators and inflammatory factors (P < 0.0001). Mechanistically, NORAD may affect the progression of RA by targeting and negatively regulating miR-204-5p.

Conclusions

There is a correlation between NORAD and the processes of RA, and NORAD has the potential to predict and diagnose the occurrence of RA.
Piper agroforestry in the Indian Himalayas: indigenous peoples’ practices, policies and incentives
Authors: Reang Demsai , Hazarika Animekh , Sileshi Gudeta Weldesemayat , Nath Arun Jyoti , Paramesh Venkatesh , Singha W. Reshmi , Das Ashesh Kumar
Published: January 2024

Background

Indigenous populations across the world play a significant role in sustainable land management and conservation of biodiversity. However, indigenous agricultural practices are rarely studied in depth and remain poorly documented in many regions of the world. Documenting such practices and identifying policies and incentives that affect them can unlock their potential for better land management and biodiversity conservation.

Methods

We undertook household surveys and focus group discussions to document indigenous practices and the values of trees in Piper (
Piper betle
) agroforestry practiced by the ethnic Khasi (Pnar) community in the Indian Eastern Himalayas. We also undertook an in-depth vegetation sampling to quantify variations in phytosociology and tree diversity with stand age in Piper agroforestry and nearby native forests. In addition, we undertook strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis and a desk review to identify policies, market support structures and incentives affecting cultivation of Piper, a cash crop of global importance.

Results

Unlike in shifting cultivation, indigenous people do not fell trees in the Piper agroforestry; instead, they allow trees to regenerate naturally and also enrich by planting tree seedlings in the gaps. Depending on the stand age, 30–49 tree species were recorded in the Piper agroforestry compared to 39 in nearby natural forests. While tree density was higher in the natural forests, greater species richness, diversity and basal area was recorded in > 25 years old Piper agroforestry stands. However, landholders do not have legally transferable or heritable rights to the land or trees.

Conclusion

It is concluded that the Piper agroforestry provides a pathway for averting land degradation due to shifting cultivation, biodiversity conservation and improving livelihoods of the indigenous community. Although existing policies are supportive, Piper agroforestry is not currently benefiting from incentives and market support structures. We recommend implementation of policies, market support structures, incentives and payment for ecosystem services so that indigenous communities can benefit from the global ecosystem services they provide.
A review of FACTS device implementation in power systems using optimization techniques
Authors: Chethan Muddu , Kuppan Ravi
Published: January 2024

In electrical power systems, FACTS devices effectively control power flow and change bus voltages, leading to lower system losses and excellent system stability. The article discusses the research from the last decade that evaluated various methods for placing FACTS devices using the meta-heuristic approach to address the positioning of FACTS devices to maintain proper bus voltages and control line flow and improve the overall system efficiency. The need for more efficient electricity systems management has given rise to innovative technologies in power generation and transmission. The combined cycle power station is a good example of a new development in power generation and flexible AC transmission systems, generally known as FACTS, are controllers that improve transmission systems. Worldwide transmission systems are undergoing continuous changes and restructuring. They are becoming more heavily loaded and are being operated in ways not originally envisioned. Transmission systems must be flexible to react to more diverse generation and load patterns. In addition, the economical utilization of transmission system assets is of vital importance to enable utilities in industrialized countries to remain competitive and to survive. In developing countries, the optimized use of transmission systems investments is also important to support industry, create employment and utilize efficiently scarce economic resources. FACTS controller is a technology that responds to these needs. It significantly alters the way transmission systems are developed and controlled together with improvements in asset utilization, system flexibility and system performance. Several models and techniques suggest that devices can be placed in a particular location with different parameter settings. Finally, the optimization problem improved system performance by decreasing power loss, improving the voltage profile and power angle at each bus, raising the L-index, and minimizing generating costs. FACTS devices can increase the transmission line’s capacity for transferring power by increasing the voltage at its terminals at both ends and reducing line reactance. The FACTS controller must be installed in the distribution and transmission lines to maximize the power flow. Various techniques are used for the best placement of FACTS controllers, including analytical methods, arithmetic programming approaches, meta-heuristic optimization approaches, and hybrid approaches—this paper analyses numerous analytical and meta-heuristic optimization techniques to place FACTS controllers in the most advantageous locations. The fundamental problems in intelligent power systems, such as improving stability, power quality, and managing congestion, are discussed in this study, along with several applications of FACTS devices. The cutting-edge power systems of today provide users with constant, high-quality power through smart grids and smart meters.
A novel transparent cabin used in the classroom during the coronavirus pandemic: a CFD analysis
Authors: ElShimi Mennatullah , Morcos Samy M. , Mostafa Galal M. , Khalil Essam E. , El-Hariry Gamal A. , ElDegwy Ahmed
Published: January 2024

A coronavirus family is a diverse group of many viruses. Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. These droplets and particles can be breathed in by other people or land on their eyes, noses, or mouths. In this paper, the airflow distribution and the movement of coronavirus particles during normal breathing and sneezing in classrooms have been studied using a CFD model developed in ANSYS® 2022R2. The objective is to find ways to control the spread of the virus that enable us to practice academic activity and deal normally with the pandemic and the spread of the disease. Experiments were done with more than one turbulence model to know which was closest to the experiments as well as to determine the best number of meshes in the classroom. The effect of turbulent dispersion on particles is resolved using a discrete random walk model for the discrete phase and the RANS model for the continuous phase in a coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian method. Furthermore, that is done in two scenarios: the first is to find the best ventilation configuration by investigating the following parameters: the effect of air change per hour, the height of the air inlets and outlets, and the infected student's position. The second is to control the spread of the coronavirus in the classroom in the event of sneezing from an infected student by placing cabins and an air filter with optimal design installed at the top around each student. It was found that optimal ventilation is achieved when fresh air enters from the side walls of the classroom at a distance of 1 m from the floor and the air exits from the ceiling in the form of two rows, and the rate change of air per hour (ACH) is 4, which leads to energy savings. In addition, a novel transparent cabin is designed for the student to sit in while in the classroom, consisting of a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) that collects any contamination and recirculates it from the top of the cabin back into the classroom with different fan speeds. Through this study, this cabin with a filter was successfully able to prevent any sneeze particles inside from reaching the rest of the students in the classroom.
Estimating demand for potential disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease in the UK
Authors: Laurell Axel A. S. , Venkataraman Ashwin V. , Schmidt Tatjana , Montagnese Marcella , Mueller Christoph , Stewart Robert , Lewis Jonathan , Mundell Clare , Isaacs Jeremy D. , Krishnan Mani S. , Barber Robert , Rittman Timothy , Underwood Benjamin R.
Published: January 2024

Background

Phase three trials of the monoclonal antibodies lecanemab and donanemab, which target brain amyloid, have reported statistically significant differences in clinical end-points in early Alzheimer's disease. These drugs are already in use in some countries and are going through the regulatory approval process for use in the UK. Concerns have been raised about the ability of healthcare systems, including those in the UK, to deliver these treatments, considering the resources required for their administration and monitoring.

Aims

To estimate the scale of real-world demand for monoclonal antibodies for Alzheimer's disease in the UK.

Method

We used anonymised patient record databases from two National Health Service trusts for the year 2019 to collect clinical, demographic, cognitive and neuroimaging data for these cohorts. Eligibility for treatment was assessed using the inclusion criteria from the clinical trials of donanemab and lecanemab, with consideration given to diagnosis, cognitive performance, cerebrovascular disease and willingness to receive treatment.

Results

We examined the records of 82 386 people referred to services covering around 2.2 million people. After applying the trial criteria, we estimate that a maximum of 906 people per year would start treatment with monoclonal antibodies in the two services, equating to 30 200 people if extrapolated nationally.

Conclusions

Monoclonal antibody treatments for Alzheimer's disease are likely to present a significant challenge for healthcare services to deliver in terms of the neuroimaging and treatment delivery. The data provided here allows health services to understand the potential demand and plan accordingly.
Somatic POLE Mutation and Ultra-Hypermutated Genotype in a De Novo High-Grade, Isocitrate Dehydrogenase Wild-Type Glioma: Treatment Implications
Authors: Mundt Daniel , Melguizo-Gavilanes Isaac , Tumu Anil Y. , Dubner Steven , Walters Mary K. , McFarlane Laura
Published: January 2024

Pembrolizumab leads to a durable response in ultra-hypermutated, high-grade, glioma.
Woolf’s Night and Day and the Free-Union Novel
Authors: Lindskog Annika J.
Published: January 2024

This article places Woolf’s Night and Day (1919) in the context of the Edwardian free-union novel—works that represent and debate monogamous relationships without legal recognition. In seeking alternatives to marriage, this genre explored what modernity might mean for young, middle-class women. Typically, the narratives’ protagonists ultimately abandon the idea of the free union, the novels often ending after all with a conventional engagement. Night and Day follows this pattern, but only to a point. It examines the free union as an opportunity for a more liberated life for young women and still ends with an engagement, but it also remains committed to seeking a compromise between old and new—reimagining marriage on more equal terms. In this, Night and Day can be seen as a transitional novel, in relation both to Woolf’s own writing and to the shift from Edwardian fiction toward modernism.
Θεωρίες και πολιτικές για την κοινωνική ισότητα μέσω της εκπαίδευσης
Authors: Αλεβίζος Αντώνιος
Published: January 2024

Η ανά χείρας διδακτορική διατριβή πραγματεύεται το ζήτημα της κοινωνικής ισότητας μέσω της εκπαίδευσης. Mε βάση τη διεθνή βιβλιογραφία για τον ρόλο της εκπαίδευσης στην προαγωγή της κοινωνικής ισότητας, τις θεωρητικές προσεγγίσεις για την κοινωνική και εκπαιδευτική ισότητα, τα εμπειρικά ερευνητικά δεδομένα που τεκμηριώνουν την ύπαρξη κοινωνικών και εκπαιδευτικών ανισοτήτων στη σύγχρονη διεθνή και ελληνική πραγματικότητα και την πρωτογενή έρευνα που υλοποιήσαμε, καταρτίζουμε μια επιστημονική πρόταση, η οποία δύναται να αξιοποιηθεί για τον σχεδιασμό εκπαιδευτικής πολιτικής που θα ενισχύει την κοινωνική αλλά και την εκπαιδευτική ισότητα στην Ελλάδα. Συγκεκριμένα, ξεκινήσαμε με την κριτική παράθεση των βασικών θεωριών και των σχετικών εμπειρικών δεδομένων για την ισότητα και τη σύνδεσή της με την εκπαίδευση, εντοπίζοντας τις κυριότερες μεταβλητές (κοινωνική τάξη, κοινωνικό φύλο, εθνική ταυτότητα, αναπηρία) και τα υποκριτήριά τους για την κοινωνική και εκπαιδευτική ισότητα, τις οποίες συμπεριλάβαμε στην έρευνά μας. Κατόπιν, προχωρήσαμε στην κριτική παρουσίαση των θεωριών για την αλληλεγγύη, επιχειρώντας να διαπιστώσουμε τη σύνδεσή της με την κοινωνική και εκπαιδευτική ισότητα και θεωρώντας τη ως σχετικό παράγοντα προαγωγής τους. Η Αναλυτική Ιεραρχική Προσέγγιση ήταν η ερευνητική μέθοδος που ακολουθήσαμε και το δείγμα της έρευνάς μας αποτελούνταν από Υπουργούς ή Υφυπουργούς Παιδείας της Ελλάδος για το διάστημα 1990-2020. Επίσης, συγκροτήσαμε και ένα μικρότερο δείγμα, ως ομάδα ελέγχου, οι συμμετέχοντες του οποίου κατείχαν θέση Ειδικού Γραμματέα ή Συμβούλου στο Υπουργείο Παιδείας κατά το ανωτέρω διάστημα. Με βάση τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας κατασκευάσαμε ένα ιεραρχικό μοντέλο για τις υπό εξέταση μεταβλητές, ενώ οδηγηθήκαμε και σε ορισμένα άλλα πρωτότυπα ευρήματα για την Ελλάδα. Η ιεράρχηση των μεταβλητών με βάση το μοντέλο είναι: αναπηρία, κοινωνική τάξη, εθνική ταυτότητα, κοινωνικό φύλο. Ως προς τα πρωτότυπα ευρήματα, σε αυτά περιλαμβάνεται η ανάδειξη του ρόλου της αλληλεγγύης στον σχεδιασμό πολιτικής για την προαγωγή της κοινωνικής και εκπαιδευτικής ισότητας και η σημασία του εθνικού διαλόγου και της αξιολόγησης για την εκπαίδευση και την εκπαιδευτική και κοινωνική ισότητα. Τα παραπάνω, σε συνδυασμό με τη μέθοδο που εφαρμόστηκε και τη σύνθεση του δείγματος, συνιστούν την καινοτομία της διατριβής, ειδικά στο πεδίο της Κοινωνιολογίας. Στην περίπτωση μάλιστα της χώρας μας ο συνδυασμός αυτός πραγματοποιείται για πρώτη φορά. Tα ευρήματά μας συνεισφέρουν στον εμπλουτισμό της σχετικής επιστημονικής συζήτησης και στο πεδίο της πολιτικής, της κοινωνίας και της οικονομίας καθώς η αξιοποίησή τους δύναται να συμβάλει στην οικοδόμηση πολιτικής για την προαγωγή της εκπαιδευτικής και κοινωνικής ισότητας.
Aktywność polityczna w Internecie w grupie młodych dorosłych – raport z badań przeprowadzonych w województwie kujawsko-pomorskim
Authors: Pazderska Agnieszka
Published: January 2024

Uczestnictwo polityczne młodych ludzi jest istotną kwestią związaną z rozważaniami nad kierunkiem rozwoju współczesnego społeczeństwa, a co za tym idzie – również jakością demokracji. Kształtowanie się kultury politycznej i społeczeństwa obywatelskiego jest uzależnione od aktywności politycznej i społecznej młodszych generacji, które coraz częściej do partycypacji politycznej używają nowych technologii komunikacyjnych i informacyjnych. Celem badań empirycznych było wskazanie poziomu aktywności politycznej w Internecie w grupie młodych dorosłych zamieszkujących województwo kujawsko-pomorskie. Hipotezą badawczą było założenie, że młodzi dorośli cechują się niskim poziomem aktywności politycznej w Internecie. Autorka przeprowadziła badania sondażowe na grupie 608 osób w wieku od 18. do 34. roku życia zamieszkujących województwo kujawsko-pomorskie. Analiza wyników badań potwierdziła, że młodzi dorośli cechują się niskim poziomem aktywności politycznej w Internecie.
Polityka historyczna rządu RP na przykładzie działalności Ministerstwa Kultury i Dziedzictwa Narodowego (2015–2023)
Authors: Kowalczyk Krzysztof
Published: January 2024

Celem artykułu jest zanalizowanie wybranych aspektów polityki historycznej Ministerstwa Kultury i Dziedzictwa Narodowego (MKiDN) w latach 2015–2023. W związku z tym zdefiniowano pojęcie polityki historycznej, określono jej funkcje, podano typologizacje stosowanych instrumentów. Następnie określono katalog podstawowych wartości ideologicznych rządzącego Prawa i Sprawiedliwości, wynikające z nich cele polityki historycznej i jej wyznaczniki. Poddano analizie wybrane instrumenty realizacji polityki historycznej przez MKiDN. W rezultacie ustalono, że kluczowymi wyznacznikami tej polityki są: polonocentryzm, mesjanizm, eksponowanie roli katolicyzmu i Kościoła, martyrologia, propagowanie postawy niezłomnej.
Etapy i efekty rozwoju gospodarczego Włoch po II wojnie światowej do lat 90. XX w.
Authors: Klimiuk Zbigniew , Petryshyn Halyna
Published: January 2024

W artykule przeanalizowano etapy rozwoju gospodarczego Włoch od połowy XIX w. do lat 90. XX w. Gospodarka Włoch stanowi ciekawy przykład wśród rozwiniętych krajów kapitalistycznych. W latach powojennych Włochy, startując z niskiego poziomu rozwoju gospodarczego, w dość szybkim tempie stały się jedną z potęg przemysłowych świata. Lata 50. i 60. były okresem dynamicznego uprzemysłowienia tego kraju, który spowodował powstanie i dynamiczny rozwój szeregu nowoczesnych gałęzi przemysłu, zwłaszcza chemicznego i maszynowego. Włochy były nawet uważane za przykład „cudu gospodarczego”. Główną cechą tego okresu był szybki wzrost produktu narodowego brutto (PNB) i netto (PNN), któremu towarzyszyła wysoka stopa inwestycji, dynamiczny wzrost eksportu, znaczne obniżenie bezrobocia oraz głębokie zmiany w strukturze zatrudnienia. Od połowy lat 90. ubiegłego wieku gospodarka włoska rozwija się wyraźnie wolniej niż przeciętna dla krajów UE.
Profetyczny charakter filozofii nietzscheańskiej
Authors: Bomba Sarah
Published: January 2024

Artykuł zatytułowany Profetyczny charakter filozofii nietzscheańskiej jest efektem studiowania przez autorkę tematu zjawisk społecznych, które nasiliły się na przestrzeni ostatnich dziesięcioleci. Celem rozważań zawartych w tekście jest ukazanie aktualności myśli Friedricha Nietzschego w okresie postmodernizmu oraz okresu, który po nim następuje. Opisana perspektywa odnosi się przede wszystkim do upadku woli jednostek w obliczu bezprecedensowych przemian społecznych. Tekst będzie czerpać z dorobku intelektualnego m.in. Jacques’a Derridy, Michela Foucaulta czy Jeana-François Lyotarda. Teza jest weryfikowana analogiami obecnymi we współczesnej myśli politycznej. Analiza elementów aksjologicznych zawartych w dziełach. Nietzschego oraz ich wpływu na współczesne społeczeństwo została przeprowadzona przy użyciu metody monograficznej oraz obserwacyjnej. Uzyskane konkluzje mają na celu refleksję na temat współczesności oraz negatywnych zjawisk zaistniałych w społeczeństwie w XX oraz XXI wieku.
The Military Orders and Women of the Nobility in the Crusader States
Authors: Burgtorf Jochen
Published: January 2024

To assess the interaction between the military orders and women of the nobility in the Crusader states neither the narrative sources’ scattered anecdotes nor the normative texts’ stipulations pertaining to women are particularly useful or representative. Focusing on the kingdom of Jerusalem and, to a lesser extent, the principality of Antioch and the county of Tripoli in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, this article considers examples from the charter evidence to appreciate the impact of queens, princesses, countesses, and noble ladies on the history of Templars, Hospitallers, and Teutonic Knights. The first part highlights the significance of consent-giving; the second part takes a closer look at activities where ladies functioned as primary agents, namely, as issuers of charters; and the third part presents a case study of Lady Juliana of Caesarea ‒ a benefactress of both Hospitallers and Teutonic Knights in the late twelfth and early thirteenth centuries ‒ whose husbands (despite their dominus/“lord” titles) only participated in the administration of her lordship iure uxoris (i.e., on the basis of Juliana’s legal title); who became a consoror (i.e., a “fellow sister”) and chose the Hospital of St. John as her final resting place; and whose second husband, Aymar of L’Ayron, later joined the Hospitallers and served as their conventual marshal during the Crusade against Damietta.