bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acoustic ambiguity reduction (AAR) method: an acoustic signal identification method for GNSS-A observation considering instrumental signal distortion
Authors: Yokota Yusuke , Ishikawa Tadashi , Nagae Koya , Watanabe Shun-ichi , Nakamura Yuto , Kouno Kenji , Yoshizumi Yuto
Published: July 2024

Seafloor geodetic observation technology is a pivotal method for capturing plate boundary earthquakes and related phenomena. Currently, this task is performed by Global Navigation Satellite System-Acoustic ranging (GNSS-A), a technique that integrates GNSS observations with acoustic ranging. This method involves measuring the round-trip travel time of an acoustic signal between a surface platform and a preinstalled seafloor station, which is then converted into a distance for positioning. While the horizontal positioning accuracy can reach the centimeter level, the vertical accuracy tends to be loser. Recent research has revealed that equipment-dependent distortion of sound waves causes problems for accurate travel time identification, leading to a decrease in vertical component accuracy. In this paper, we conducted an analysis of distortion tendencies using water tank test data and quantitatively identified differences in distortion magnitude related to instruments, angle dependence, and directional dependence attributed to the sea surface platform. We proposed a new identification algorithm, Acoustic Ambiguity Reduction (AAR) method, using a catalog of distortions for each device, and improved the observational capabilities of the vertical component.

Graphical Abstract
Harnessing cellulose-binding protein domains for the development of functionalized cellulose materials
Authors: Li Shaowei , Liu Guodong
Published: July 2024

Cellulosic materials are attracting increasing research interest because of their abundance, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, making them suitable in multiple industrial and medical applications. Functionalization of cellulose is usually required to improve or expand its properties to meet the requirements of different applications. Cellulose-binding domains (CBDs) found in various proteins have been shown to be powerful tools in the functionalization of cellulose materials. In this review, we firstly introduce the structural characteristics of commonly used CBDs belonging to carbohydrate-binding module families 1, 2 and 3. Then, we summarize four main kinds of methodologies for employing CBDs to modify cellulosic materials (i.e., CBD only, genetic fusion, non-covalent linkage and covalent linkage). Via different approaches, CBDs have been used to improve the material properties of cellulose, immobilize enzymes for biocatalysis, and design various detection tools. To achieve industrial applications, researches for lowering the production cost of CBDs, improving their performance (e.g., stability), and expanding their application scenarios are still in need.

Graphical abstract
The incretin effect in type 2 diabetes in a Sub-Saharan African population
Authors: Nielsen Signe Tellerup , Kweka Belinda , Praygod George , Filteau Suzanne , Olsen Mette Frahm , Friis Henrik , Faurholt-Jepsen Daniel , Krogh-Madsen Rikke
Published: July 2024

Aim

Type 2 diabetes is increasing in Sub-Saharan Africa, but the pathophysiology in this population is poorly investigated. In Western populations, the incretin effect is reduced in type 2 diabetes, leading to lowered insulin secretion. The aim of this study was to investigate the incretin effect in a group of Sub-Saharan Africans with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Twenty adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, based on either an oral glucose tolerance test (n = 10) or on glycated hemoglobin A1c (n = 10), and 10 non-diabetic controls were included in an interventional study in Tanzania. We investigated the incretin effect as the difference between the plasma insulin area under the curve during an oral glucose tolerance test and that obtained during an intravenous glucose infusion. Differences between diabetes groups were analyzed by Kruskal–Wallis one-way analysis of variance.

Results

The incretin effect did not differ between groups (p = 0.45), and there was no difference in plasma concentrations of the incretin hormones during the OGTT.

Conclusion

A reduced incretin effect appears not to contribute to hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes in this Tanzanian population. More research is needed to explain the diabetes phenotype often seen in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03106480, date of registration: 04/10/2017.
Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and psychometric validation of the Malay version of the Assessment of Quality of Life—6 Dimensions (Malay-AQoL-6D) instrument among Malaysians living with chronic heart failure
Authors: Tan Yi Jing , Ong Siew Chin , Goh Sook Pin , Chen Gang , Yong Vee Sim , Khor Wei Wern , Kan Ying Min , Choong Yong Ying , Zameram Ainul Mardhiyyah , Tan Lin Yuing , Voo James Yau Hon , Lam Kar Kei , Yen Chia How , Wahab Mohamed Jahangir Abdul , Abdulla Zarina Banu
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the Assessment of Quality of Life (AQoL)-6D into Malay (Malay-AQoL-6D), and assesses the instrument’s acceptability, reliability, and validity among Malaysians living with chronic heart failure (HF).

Methods

The translation and cross-cultural adaptation process adhered to international guidelines. The Malay-AQoL-6D underwent content and face validity assessments via expert review, and pretesting among healthy individuals and patients with chronic conditions. Subsequent psychometric validation utilised clinico-sociodemographic data and paired AQoL-6D and EQ-5D-5L data from a health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) survey involving Malay-speaking patients with HF, which encompassed assessments of Malay-AQoL-6D acceptability, internal consistency and test-retest reliability, as well as its construct, concurrent, convergent and divergent, and known-group validity.

Results

The Malay-AQoL-6D was deemed acceptable among clinicians and local patients, achieving a 90.8% completion rate among 314 patients surveyed. The instrument demonstrated strong content validity (item-level content validity index [CVI]: 0.83–1.00, average CVI: 0.98), internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.72–0.89; MacDonald’s omega: 0.82–0.90, excluding the Senses dimension), and test-retest reliability (average intraclass correlation coefficients: 0.79–0.95). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the instrument’s two-level, six-factor structure (Satorra-Bentler [SB]-scaled χ2(df: 164): 283.67, p-value < 0.001; root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA]: 0.051; comparative fix index [CFI]: 0.945, Tucker-Lewis index [TLI]: 0.937; standardised root mean-squared error [SRMR]: 0.058). The Malay-AQoL-6D’s concurrent validity was evident through its good agreement with EQ-5D-5L. Multiple hypothesis tests further affirmed its construct and known-group validity. The Malay-AQoL-6D’s psychometric properties remained consistent across different missing data techniques.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that Malay-AQoL-6D could be a culturally acceptable, reliable, and valid HRQoL measure for quantifying HRQoL among the local HF population. Future studies are necessary to further validate the instrument against other measures and confirm the instrument’s test-retest reliability and responsiveness, which are possible with the availability of the Malay-AQoL-6D.
Application of fungi as biological control strategies for nematode management in horticultural crops
Authors: Rahman Mati Ur , Zhong Xiaomin , Uzair Muhammad , Fan Ben
Published: July 2024

Plant-parasitic nematodes are a major problem for horticultural production, causing significant economic losses. Chemical nematicides are a common nematode control strategy but can negatively impact the environment and human health. In this review, we provide an overview of the use of fungi for the biological control of plant-parasitic nematodes in horticultural crops. Fungal bio-control represents an alternative, environmentally friendly strategy for managing nematodes. The use of fungi for the bio-control of nematodes has gained increasing attention due to the potential benefits of selectivity, sustainability, and long-term control. Here, we discuss the different types of fungi used for nematode management, the mechanisms of their action, the advantages and limitations of using fungi for bio-control, and the factors affecting their efficacy. Additionally, we provide several case studies of fungal bio-control against root-knot, cyst, and lesion nematodes in horticultural crops. The review concludes with a discussion of future directions and research recommendations for implementing fungal bio-control in horticultural crops.
Gender differences in patients with corona virus disease-2019 presenting with psychiatric disturbances: a multicentre study
Authors: Maher Rabab , Shousha Hend Ibrahim , Madbouly Nagwan , Afify Shimaa , Moussa Suaad Sayed , Asem Noha , Abdelazeem Amr , Youssif Eslam Mohamed , Harhira Khalid Yousef , Elmorsy Hazem , Elgarem Hassan , Hassany Mohamed , Eysa Basem , El-Kassas Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Background

The coronavirus disease known as COVID-19 (2019) pandemic may increase the likelihood of psychological symptoms that can reach the level of psychiatric disorders.

Aim

We aimed to study psychiatric morbidity in patients with COVID-19 concerning gender differences and disease severity in the acute phase of infection and after 6 months.

Methods

This is a multicenter follow-up study registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04459403). Patients were recruited consecutively from three quarantine hospitals in Egypt. Data were collected through a questionnaire built using Google Forms including the Arabic versions of General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale (TMAS). Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms were assessed after 6 months.

Results

The study questionnaire was offered to 400 patients and 199 patients agreed to fill it. BDI and TAMS were higher in mild than moderate and severe COVID-19 (14, 8, 8, P-value = 0.009, 17, 13.5, 14, P-value = 0.04, respectively). Females showed a higher prevalence of depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and insomnia due to anxiety than males. Education level, marital status, previous psychiatric illness, and severity of COVID-19 independently affected depression. Marital status, family history of psychiatric illness, and chronic medical illness independently affected anxiety. On 6-month follow-up, BDI significantly decreased in males but not females. TMAS showed no significant changes, but the severity of anxiety was still higher in females. PTSD was more frequent in females (26 (37.1%) versus 4 (9.5%), respectively, P-value = 0.02).

Conclusion

The prevalence and severity of depression and anxiety were higher in females than male participants, suggesting that females are more affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Potential sources of inaccuracy in the Apple watch series 4 energy expenditure estimation algorithm during wheelchair propulsion
Authors: Danielsson Marius Lyng , Doshmanziari Roya , Brurok Berit , Wouda Matthijs Ferdinand , Baumgart Julia Kathrin
Published: July 2024

Background

The Apple Watch (AW) was the first smartwatch to provide wheelchair user (WCU) specific information on energy expenditure (EE), but was found to be inaccurate (i.e., it underestimated) and imprecise (i.e., the underestimation was variable). Insight is therefore needed into where these inaccuracies/imprecisions originate. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate how much of the variation in AW EE is explained by heart rate (HR), in addition to other factors such as body mass and height, sex, age, physical activity level and disability.

Methods

Forty participants (20 WCU, 20 non-disabled) performed three 4-min treadmill wheelchair propulsion stages at different speed-incline combinations, on three separate days, while wearing an AW series 4 (setting: “outdoor push walking pace”). Linear mixed model analyses investigated how much of the variation in AW EE (kcal·min−1) is explained by the fixed effects AW HR (beats·min−1), body mass and height, sex, age, physical activity level and disability. Participant-ID was included as random-intercept effect. The same mixed model analyses were conducted for criterion EE and HR. Marginal R2 (R2m; fixed effects only) and conditional R2 (R2c; fixed and random effects) values were computed. An R2m close to zero indicates that the fixed effects alone do not explain much variation.

Results

Although criterion HR explained a significant amount of variation in criterion EE (R2m: 0.44, R2c: 0.92, p < 0.001), AW HR explained little variation in AW EE (R2m: 0.06, R2c: 0.86, p < 0.001). In contrast, body mass and sex explained a significant amount of variation in AW EE (R2m: 0.74, R2c: 0.79, p < 0.001). No further improvements in fit were achieved by adding body height, age, physical activity level or disability to the AW EE model (R2m: 0.75, R2c: 0.79, p = 0.659).

Conclusion

Our results remain inconclusive on whether AW heart rate is used as factor to adjust for exercise intensity in the black box AW EE estimation algorithms. In contrast, body mass explained much of the variation in AW EE, indicating that the AW EE estimation algorithm is very reliant on this factor. Future investigations should explore better individualization of EE estimation algorithms.
Leveraging Mobile Health to Improve Capecitabine Adherence Among Women With Breast Cancer: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Graetz Ilana , Hernandez Samuel , Arshad Sara , Byers Kristina , Meisel Jane , Sadigh Gelareh , Sakach Elizabeth A. , Gogineni Keerthi , Torres Mylin A.
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Oral capecitabine improves convenience compared to intravenous therapies but presents monitoring challenges. We conducted a randomized pilot trial to evaluate a mobile health intervention to remotely monitor capecitabine adherence and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) among women with breast cancer.

METHODS

Patients with breast cancer prescribed capecitabine, an oral chemotherapy with a complex, cyclical regimen, were randomly assigned to enhanced usual care (EUC) or PRO arm. Participants were asked to use a smart pill bottle to measure adherence (timing and dose) and complete baseline and 90-day follow-up surveys. PRO participants received text messages for missed or incorrect doses and weekly text-based symptom assessments, and their oncologists received alerts for severe symptoms or missed doses. We compared nonadherence (<80%) and changes from enrollment to follow-up on reported physical and mental health quality-of-life scores and number of severe symptoms by study arm.

RESULTS

Overall, 32 women were randomly assigned (17 EUC and 15 PRO): 28 (87.5%) received the intervention and 24 (78.1%) completed the follow-up survey. Among participants who received the intervention, PRO participants responded to 83.3% of symptom questions; 7.7% of PRO participants were nonadherent compared with 40.0% of EUC participants ( P = .049). Among those who completed the follow-up survey, 12.5% of PRO participants had reductions in their mental health composite scores compared with 69.2% of EUC participants ( P = .011); 10% of PRO participants had more severe symptoms at follow-up compared with 57.1% of EUC participants ( P = .019).

CONCLUSION

A mobile health intervention using text message reminders and symptom assessments improved medication adherence and mental health quality-of-life scores and lowered symptom burden of patients with breast cancer prescribed capecitabine. Future work should evaluate the longer-term impacts of this intervention.
Real-World Outcomes of Immunotherapy for Melanoma Brain Metastases in New Zealand
Authors: Walsh Niamh , Stephens Rosalie , Tan Alvin , Durandt Vanessa , McLachlan Jennifer , Jordan Jody , Gregory Kate , Sutton Sean , Barrow Catherine , Wong Annie N.M.
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Melanoma brain metastases (BMs) are associated with poor survival. Combination immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) with anti-PD1 and anti–CTLA-4 are the international standard-of-care treatment. Most landmark clinical trials excluded real-world patients with symptomatic disease, poor performance status (PS), and steroid use. Despite the high incidence of melanoma in New Zealand (NZ), the only publicly funded systemic treatment is anti-PD1 monotherapy. The real-world outcomes for BMs after ICIs in NZ are unknown.

METHODOLOGY

Medical records of patients with melanoma BMs in seven cancer centers across NZ between September 1, 2016, and September 1, 2020, were evaluated. Clinicopathologic characteristics, treatment, intracranial (IC) tumor response rates, IC progression-free survival, and overall survival (OS) are reported.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-four patients received at least one dose of ICI. One hundred and thirty-three (93%) patients received anti-PD1 monotherapy. Almost a quarter of patients had poor baseline PS, 56% were symptomatic, and 33% had corticosteroids. Patients also received local therapies: 61 (42%) patients underwent surgery, 42 (29%) received whole brain radiation, and 47 (33%) received stereotactic radiation. The median OS was 15 months, and a third of patients were alive at 2 years. The toxicity of ICIs was at 28% and 15% for Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events grade 1-2 and 3-4 events, respectively. Of the patients who are still alive, 76% of patients remained symptomatic neurologically at last follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Most patients in this NZ real-world study were symptomatic and received anti-PD1 monotherapy. Approximately one-third of treated patients are alive at 2 years, but most patients remained symptomatic. This highlights the need for more effective treatment and prospective management of their neurologic rehabilitation needs.
Long-Read Sequencing Solves Complex Structure of CYP21A2 in a Large 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency Cohort
Authors: Wang Ruifang , Luo Xiaomei , Sun Yu , Liang Lili , Mao Aiping , Lu Deyun , Zhang Kaichuang , Yang Yi , Sun Yuning , Sun Manqing , Han Lianshu , Zhang Huiwen , Gu Xuefan , Qiu Wenjuan , Yu Yongguo
Published: July 2024

Context

Genetic testing for 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) is always challenging. The current approaches of short-read sequencing and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) are insufficient for the detection of chimeric genes or complicated variants from multiple copies. Recently developed long-read sequencing (LRS) can solve this problem.

Objective

To investigate the clinical utility of LRS in precision diagnosis of 21-OHD.

Methods

In the cohort of 832 patients with 21-OHD, the current approaches provided the precise molecular diagnosis for 81.7% (680/832) of cases. LRS was performed to solve the remaining 144 cases with complex chimeric variants and 8 cases with variants from multiple copies. Clinical manifestations in patients with continuous deletions of CYP21A2 extending to TNXB (namely CAH-X) were further evaluated.

Results

Using LRS in combination with previous genetic test results, a total of 16.9% (281/1664) CYP21A1P/CYP21A2 or TNXA/TNXB chimeric alleles were identified in 832 patients, with CYP21A1P/CYP21A2 accounting for 10.4% and TNXA/TNXB for 6.5%. The top 3 common chimeras were CYP21 CH-1, TNX CH-1, and TNX CH-2, accounting for 77.2% (217/281) of all chimeric alleles. The 8 patients with variants on multiple copies of CYP21A2 were accurately identified with LRS. The prevalence of CAH-X in our cohort was 12.1%, and a high frequency of connective tissue-related symptoms was observed in CAH-X patients.

Conclusion

LRS can detect all types of CYP21A2 variants, including complex chimeras and pathogenic variants on multiple copies in patients with 21-OHD, which could be utilized as a first-tier routine test for the precision diagnosis and categorization of congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
A Germline ZFX Missense Variant in a Patient With Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Guan Bin , Agarwal Sunita K , Welch James M , Jha Smita , Weinstein Lee S , Simonds William F
Published: July 2024

A 51-year-old woman with a history of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) with prior parathyroidectomy, osteoporosis, and learning disability was referred for hypercalcemia discovered after a fall. Family history was negative for PHPT, pituitary, enteropancreatic neuroendocrine, or jaw tumors. Dysmorphic facies, multiple cutaneous melanocytic nevi, café au lait macules, long fingers, and scoliosis were observed. Laboratory evaluation showed an elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) level, hypercalcemia, and hypophosphatemia, all consistent with PHPT. Preoperative imaging revealed a right inferior candidate parathyroid lesion. The patient underwent right inferior parathyroidectomy with normalization of PTH, calcium, and phosphorus. Genetic testing showed a likely pathogenic de novo heterozygous germline missense variant p.R764W in the ZFX gene that encodes a zinc-finger transcription factor previously shown to harbor somatic missense variants in a subset of sporadic parathyroid tumors. Germline variants in ZFX have been reported in patients with an X-linked intellectual disability syndrome with an increased risk for congenital anomalies and PHPT. Further research may determine if genetic testing for ZFX could be of potential benefit for patients with PHPT and developmental anomalies, even in the absence of a family history of parathyroid disease.
Sporadic Parathyroid Carcinoma Treated With Lenvatinib, Exhibiting a Novel Somatic MEN1 Mutation
Authors: Ito Yu , Imaizumi Toshinori , Daido Hisashi , Kato Takehiro , Yabe Daisuke
Published: July 2024

Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is extremely rare and is primarily treated surgically. Chemotherapy is an option for advanced stages, but no standard regimen exists. Emerging research suggests the efficacy of multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitors (MTKIs) for PC, targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). A 61-year-old Japanese woman presented with a neck mass, diagnosed as PC with pleural and lumbar metastases. After parathyroidectomy and radiation for lumbar metastasis, immunohistochemistry showed VEGFR overexpression, leading to targeted therapy with MTKIs. Despite no actionable mutations on cancer genomic panel test, a novel MEN1 somatic mutation (NM_130801: exon2: c.332delG: p.G111fs*8) was identified, which may affect VEGFR2 expression and tumor epigenetics. Although severe hand-foot syndrome necessitated dose reductions and treatment interruptions, sorafenib treatment managed hypercalcemia with evocalcet and denosumab. Lenvatinib, as second-line therapy, was effective against pleural metastases but caused thrombocytopenia and hematuria, leading to discontinuation and uncontrolled recurrence and metastasis progression. Our case highlights the need for further research on genomic profiling, molecular targets, and therapy response in PC.
Long-term Evolution of Hypophosphatemia and Osteomalacia in a Patient With Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Zomorodian Alireza , Maalouf Naim M
Published: July 2024

Multiple myeloma commonly manifests with symptoms arising from the involvement of various organs, particularly the bone and kidneys. In this report, we detail the case of a 44-year-old man who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma associated with reduced bone density. He exhibited clinical findings of osteomalacia due to Fanconi syndrome (characterized clinically by bone pain and proximal weakness and biochemically by elevated serum alkaline phosphatase, hypophosphatemia, hypouricemia, and glucosuria). With phosphate replacement, there was a notable improvement in bone pain, osteomalacia, and bone mineral density. Nevertheless, the patient continued to experience renal wasting of phosphate, uric acid, and glucose despite achieving remission from multiple myeloma for nearly 2 years. Our case highlights several important clinical features of myeloma-associated Fanconi syndrome, including the need to recognize this complication to appropriately treat the underlying bone disease while avoiding osteoclast inhibitors and the long-term persistence of the proximal renal tubulopathy despite achieving remission from myeloma and correction of osteomalacia.
Hyperthyroidism Due to Functioning Metastatic Bone Lesions of Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma Treated With Lenvatinib
Authors: Kobayashi Tomoko , Iwama Shintaro , Suzuki Koji , Arima Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

A 71-year-old woman was diagnosed with unresectable metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) and thyrotoxicosis. She was negative for the presence of thyroxine receptor antibody and thyroid-stimulating antibody. Whole-body scintigraphy revealed increased 99mTc-pertechnetate uptake in metastatic bone lesions but not in the thyroid nodule. Since radioactive iodine therapy was not applicable because the canalis vertebralis had been invaded, treatment with lenvatinib was initiated, along with methimazole and potassium iodide. The serum level of thyroid hormone decreased. The patient developed hypothyroidism, which continued after the methimazole was stopped, suggesting that lenvatinib suppressed the hyperthyroidism. To our best knowledge, this is the first report of a patient with functioning bone lesions of metastatic FTC in whom hyperthyroidism was controlled by lenvatinib without radioactive iodine therapy.
Multicenter Prospective Randomized Comparison of Ultrasound-Guided Stellate Ganglion Versus Thoracic Paravertebral Block for Sympathetic Blockade in Chronic Upper Extremity Pain
Authors: Kim Jeongsoo , Cha Joon , Choi Sheung Nyoung , Heo Gang , Yoo Yongjae , Moon Jee Youn
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a type of sympathetic block used to relieve pain in the face and upper extremities. However, its effectiveness can be limited by the presence of Kuntz fibers that bypass the stellate ganglion. Thoracic paravertebral block (TPVB) offers an alternative in such cases. We hypothesized that ultrasound (US)-guided TPVB would provide a higher success rate of upper extremity sympathetic blockade than US-guided SGB. Therefore, this prospective randomized study aimed to compare the technical success rates between US-guided TPVB and US-guided SGB and assess clinical outcomes in alleviating upper extremity pain.

METHODS:

Patients aged 19 to 85 years diagnosed with chronic upper extremity pain (complex regional pain syndrome and neuropathic pain) were randomly assigned to either the US-guided TPVB group, where they received a 10 mL injection of 1% mepivacaine in the T2 paravertebral space, or the US-guided SGB group, where they received a 5 mL injection of 1% mepivacaine at the C6 level. The primary outcome was the success rate (%) of sympathetic blockade, which was predefined as the difference in temperature change between affected and unaffected hands 20 minutes after the procedure (ΔT difference) of ≥ 1.5°C. Secondary outcomes included comparisons of the ΔT difference (°C), differences in peak systolic velocities (cm/s) of the ipsilateral brachial artery at 20 minutes, and pain intensity at baseline and 20 minutes, 1 week, and 4 weeks after the procedure using an 11-point numerical rating scale (NRS) pain score.

RESULTS:

The TPVB group (N = 22/35, 62.9%) showed a higher success rate than the SGB group (N = 13/34, 38.2%; P = .041) in achieving the primary outcome of sympathetic blockade at 20 minutes. The difference in success rates between the 2 groups was 24.6 % (95% confidence interval [CI], −9.0% to 58.2%). The ΔT difference was significantly higher in TPVB than in SGB (2.0°C ±1.5 and 1.1°C ±1.3, respectively; P = .008). The peak systolic velocities at 20 minutes increased in TPVB (P = .005), which was not observed in SGB (P = .325). Pain intensity decreased in both groups 20 minutes after injection (P < .001 in each group), and the TPVB group showed a lower 11-point NRS pain score compared to the SGB group (4.3 ± 2.2 and 5.4 ± 2.4, respectively; P = .038). Pain intensity scores increased to preintervention levels in both groups at 1 week and 4 weeks after the interventions.

CONCLUSIONS:

US-guided TPVB had a higher success rate of upper extremity sympathetic blockade than US-guided SGB, with more pronounced immediate postprocedural pain relief.
Macrophages allocate before apoptosis initiation and produce reactive oxygen species during interdigital phagocytosis
Authors: Hernández-García David , García-Meléndrez Celina , Hernández-Martínez Rocío , Collazo-Navarrete Omar , Covarrubias Luis
Published: July 2024

During programmed cell death (PCD), it is commonly accepted that macrophages are recruited by apoptotic cells to complete cell degradation. Interdigital cell death, a classical model of PCD, contributes to digit individualization in limbs of mammals and other vertebrates. Here, we show that macrophages are present in interdigits before significant cell death occurs and remain after apoptosis inhibition. The typical interdigital phagocytic activity was not observed after a partial depletion of macrophages and was markedly reduced by engulfment/phagosome maturation inhibition, as detected by its association with high lysosomal activity. β-galactosidase activity in this region was also coupled with phagocytosis, against its relationship with cellular senescence. Interdigital phagocytosis correlated with high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), common in embryo regions carrying abundant cell death, suggesting that macrophages are the major source of ROS. ROS generation was dependent on NADPH oxidases and blood vessel integrity, but not directly associated with lysosomal activity. Therefore, macrophages prepattern regions where abundant cell death is going to occur, and high lysosomal activity and the generation of ROS by an oxidative burst-like phenomenon are activities of phagocytosis.
Assessment of information truthlikeliness and authenticity
Authors: Καρανταΐδης Γεώργιος
Published: July 2024

Με την διάδοση των πληροφοριών στην ψηφιακή εποχή, υπάρχει αυξανόμενη ανησυχία για τις επιπτώσεις στους πολίτες, τη δημοκρατία και την κοινωνία. Για την αντιμετώπιση αυτών των κινδύνων, είναι σημαντικό να αξιολογείται η αυθεντικότητα των πολυμέσων και να διασφαλίζεται η παροχή αξιόπιστων πληροφοριών. Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή εκτείνεται σε τρεις πυλώνες που εξετάζουν το πρόβλημα του ελέγχου αυθεντικότητας πολυμέσων και της αξιοποίησης πληροφοριών μέσω νέων προσεγγίσεων στη φασματική ανάλυση, τη θεωρία υπεργραφημάτων και τα συνελικτικά νευρωνικά δίκτυα. Στο πρώτο μέρος παρουσιάζεται η διερεύνηση του κριτηρίου της Συχνότητας Ηλεκτρικού Δικτύου (ΣΗΔ) και των εφαρμογών του στον έλεγχο αυθεντικότητας πολυμέσων. Προτείνεται μη-παραμετρική προσέγγιση για την εκτίμηση της ΣΗΔ με ενσωμάτωση παραθύρου υστέρησης στη μέθοδο φασματικής εκτίμησης Blackman-Tukey. Αντιμετωπίζονται οι προκλήσεις της εκτίμησης ΣΗΔ σε πολυμέσα λόγω παρεμβολών ομιλίας και προτείνεται αυτοματοποιημένη προσέγγιση για στατικές και μη-στατικές ψηφιακές εγγραφές βίντεο, εκμεταλλευόμενη περιοχές με παρόμοια χαρακτηριστικά σε κάθε καρέ. Το δεύτερο μέρος αφιερώνεται στην εκμάθηση υπεργραφημάτων για τη σύσταση εικόνων και ετικετών. Για την αντιμετώπιση του υψηλού υπολογιστικού κόστους από τις αντιστροφές του Λαπλασιανού ή του πίνακα γειτνίασης, χρησιμοποιείται τυχαιοποιημένη γραμμική άλγεβρα και προτείνεται η κατά τμήματα τυχαιοποιημένη Ανάλυση Ιδιαζουσών Τιμών. Εισάγεται σύστημα εκμάθησης για τον υπολογισμό αξιόπιστου διανύσματος διαβάθμισης σε υπεργραφήματα, βελτιστοποιώντας τη δομή και τα βάρη των υπερακμών μέσω μεθόδου κατάβασης κλίσης. Το τρίτο μέρος ασχολείται με τη διάκριση εικόνων που παράγονται με χρήση υπολογιστή από φυσικές εικόνες. Προτείνεται πλαίσιο που χρησιμοποιεί επιβλεπόμενη αντιθετική μάθηση και μεταφορά τεχνοτροπίας μέσω βαθιών νευρωνικών δικτύων. Ο έλεγχος υποθέσεων επιβεβαιώνει τη στατιστική σημασία των βελτιώσεων. Εξετάζοντας και αναπτύσσοντας νέες προσεγγίσεις στους τρεις αυτούς πυλώνες, η διατριβή συμβάλλει στην προαγωγή της αυθεντικότητας πολυμέσων, της εκμάθησης υπεργραφημάτων και της διάκρισης εικόνων, αντιμετωπίζοντας σημαντικές προκλήσεις στην ψηφιακή πληροφοριακή εποχή.
A Fondrakö text: Cultural religious tradition and social integration of community
Authors: Zaluchu Sonny E.
Published: July 2024

Fondrakö is the local wisdom of the Nias ethnic community and has two functions. First are the oral religious holy book teaching ancestors' values and philosophy. Second is the highest consensus institution of the traditional society formulating and making decisions on the socio-religious law to guarantee the order of the community. This paper explains that social differentiation has happened in the modern era; philosophical values of fondrakö remain to live up to this day and experience the proliferation of rites. The argumentation built through this paper is that primitive culture will not simply disappear in the modern community just because it experiences accommodation and the decrease of emotional intensity into new forms. Social laws of primitive religion are not always contradictory and can run parallel with civilization.
Effects of dynamic versus static parameter-guided fluid resuscitation in patients with sepsis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sricharoenchai Thiti , Saisirivechakun Pannarat
Published: July 2024

Background Fluid resuscitation is an essential component for sepsis treatment. Although several studies demonstrated that dynamic variables were more accurate than static variables for prediction of fluid responsiveness, fluid resuscitation guidance by dynamic variables is not standard for treatment. The objectives were to determine the effects of dynamic inferior vena cava (IVC)-guided versus (vs.) static central venous pressure (CVP)-guided fluid resuscitation in septic patients on mortality; and others, i.e., resuscitation targets, shock duration, fluid and vasopressor amount, invasive respiratory support, length of stay and adverse events. Methods A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted at Thammasat University Hospital between August 2016 and April 2020. Septic patients were stratified by acute physiologic and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) <25 or ≥25 and randomized by blocks of 2 and 4 to fluid resuscitation guidance by dynamic IVC or static CVP. Results Of 124 patients enrolled, 62 were randomized to each group, and one of each was excluded from mortality analysis. Baseline characteristics were comparable. The 30-day mortality rates between dynamic IVC vs. static CVP groups were not different (34.4% vs. 45.9%, p=0.196). Relative risk for 30-day mortality of dynamic IVC group was 0.8 (95%CI=0.5-1.2, p=0.201). Different outcomes were median (interquartile range) of shock duration (0.8 (0.4-1.6) vs. 1.5 (1.1-3.1) days, p=0.001) and norepinephrine (NE) dose (6.8 (3.9–17.8) vs. 16.1 (7.6–53.6) milligrams, p=0.008 and 0.1 (0.1-0.3) vs. 0.3 (0.1-0.8) milligram⋅kilogram−1, p=0.017). Others were not different. Conclusions Dynamic IVC-guided fluid resuscitation does not affect mortality of septic patients. However, this may reduce shock duration and NE dose, compared with static CVP guidance.
Geometric and Graphic Training of Technical Students in Modern Conditions
Authors: Nazarova Zh.
Published: July 2024

Geometric and graphic training is an integral part of the education of technical students. It is aimed at developing skills in working with geometric and graphic models, which allows students to successfully solve problems related to design and construction. This article discusses the directions of development of geometric-graphic training in modern conditions, as well as its influence on the formation of professional competencies among students. Describes a study conducted in the 2022–2023 academic year at the Ural State University of Transport (Ekaterinburg) in order to identify the shortcomings of the existing methodology for geometric-graphic training and develop proposals for its adjustment.

Modern pedagogical activities are based on information technologies, e-learning systems, and interactive teaching methods. Much is said about the requirements for students to successfully study the discipline (initial preparation, ability to work with information, quick acquisition of skills in specialized programs), but it is also worth highlighting the qualities necessary for a teacher to ensure a successful educational process: the ability to conduct an electronic training course , communication with students indirectly through special educational platforms, the ability to adapt to new challenges of the modern world (introduction of e-learning, the COVID-19 pandemic, presentation of material using examples understandable to modern students).

Modern demands on engineers and designers are high - they need to have a wide range of knowledge and skills to effectively carry out design work. Competent use of graphics programs and applications, as well as the ability to work with 3D models are just some of the key competencies in this area. The development of geometric-graphic training allows students to master these skills already at the training stage, which gives them an advantage when searching for work and increases their competitiveness in the labor market.
Political networks in Vietnam: characteristics and ways of functioning
Authors: Hya Hoang
Published: July 2024

The article examines the political network of Vietnam with the characteristics of a country with a socialist regime, in which the structure of the political network with the main network nodes includes political parties, the state, socio-political organizations and citizens. The author uses the network structure analysis method to clarify the features of the political network structure in Vietnam. In fact, the policy network approach has not been explored or widely used in studies of the relationships between components of the political system in Vietnam. However, along with the trend of globalization, the development of science and technology and the process of democratization, political participation in Vietnam is also increasingly expanding, with the wide participation of various ingredients. The structure and functioning of the political network in Vietnam have the characteristics of a one-party ruling regime, ensuring that state power belongs to the people through the construction of a socialist rule of law state. Political network approaches help democratic values to be more respected and guaranteed when different actors are involved in political processes. Although there are still limitations in connectivity, resource allocation and recognition of the role of network nodes in the political network in Vietnam, but policy network theory is still becoming a research field in political science that has received much attention and is in line with the development of practice.
Cultural contexts of digital Transformation of Public Administration: a comparative analysis of Western and Eastern models
Authors: Muhaev Rashid , Chubarov A.
Published: July 2024

The purpose of the article is to identify the cultural contexts of the mechanism of digital transformation of public administration within the boundaries of the Western and eastern models of the political process. The main research method is a comparative analysis of the mechanisms of public goal-setting, which are determined by the picture of the world, a set of meanings and priority values that set the behavior patterns of an individual and groups in different civilizations. Digitalization radically changes the system of power-society-personality relations, experiencing the influence of cultural constants, the consequences of which are considered on the example of Great Britain and Japan. The trajectories of the Western and eastern models of digital transformation of public administration are compared by the following markers: 1) technologies for the implementation of artificial intelligence in the public administration system; 2) the mechanism of managerial decision-making in the “artificial intelligence” system. 3) the transformation of the power-society relationship and its consequences. The variables influencing the content and algorithm of functioning of the digital government model, influencing the effectiveness of the use of artificial intelligence technologies introduced into the system of modern public administration, have been identified. The theoretical significance of the research is seen in the formation of a research matrix that takes into account the different rate of change in management practices and functions of institutions in different cultural environments during the transition to a digital management model. The practical relevance of the study consists in the formulation of recommendations that allow to identify effective practices for the implementation of artificial intelligence in the process of public administration, which are most often located at the junction of different cultures.
Electronic voting: cases of Russia and 12 foreign countries (review of V.I. Fedorov's monograph "Electronic Voting: Russian and foreign experience")
Authors: Alekseev Roman
Published: July 2024

The article presents an analytical review of the monograph of the Russian political scientist V.I. Fedorov "Electronic voting: Russian and foreign experience". The author of the monograph gained fame in the course of studying electoral practices in the testing and implementation of various forms of online and Internet voting both in the electoral process of domestic elections and during foreign electoral procedures. The reviewed scientific monograph provides a detailed analysis and critical overview of global electronic voting practices (based on materials from a number of foreign countries, such as: Russia, India, Bhutan, Venezuela, Switzerland, Estonia, Namibia, Kyrgyzstan, Brazil, Belgium, Mongolia, the Philippines). The author of the reviewed work relies on statistical and sociological data, expert reports showing the rapid growth of the use of electronic technologies in the electoral process. The monograph notes and analyzes the emerging trend in both domestic and global electoral practice of the transition from traditional voting (using ballots) to online voting, which is associated by the author of the study with the logic of rational choice theory, focusing on reducing costs and expenses during elections (budget savings and staff reduction staff of election commissions) and maximizing the benefits for the authorities and authorities organizing and conducting elections (increase in electoral turnout, the speed of counting the votes of mobile voters, the prevention of unconventional mass forms of political participation after the publication of election results).
Acceptance of the disease by patients with heart failure
Authors: Fraś Małgorzata , Płatek Kinga , Sováriová Soósová Mária , Bąk Ewelina
Published: July 2024

Introduction
Nowadays, heart failure is one of the most serious health problems. In Poland, about a million people struggle with it. This is due to several demographic and epidemiological trends, m.in. the improvement of the health care system and the aging of the population. Cardiovascular diseases are a huge challenge for the healthcare system, as they are considered the main cause of death in Poland. The basic assumption of the treatment of the disease includes the improvement of the quality of life
Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to assess acceptance of the disease in patients with heart failure receiving outpatient medical care.
 
Material and methods:
The research was carried out on a group of 100 patients from NZOZ "Vita". To carry out the research, the author's questionnaire and the Standardized Questionnaire: AIS and LOT-R were used, and appropriate consents were obtained for their use in the work.
 
Results In the study group, the level of disease acceptance according to the AIS in patients with heart failure treated on an outpatient basis was medium and high (48%; n=48 vs. 48%; n=48). Among the respondents, the largest group (46%; n=46) were people with an average level of optimism according to LOT-R. In people with heart failure, the most common comorbidities were diabetes, hypertension and bronchial asthma. Additional diseases did not have a statistically significant impact on the acceptance of the disease among the examined patients (p>0.05). The importance of religion as well as spiritual development in the respondents' lives did not influence their acceptance of the disease (p>0.05). Respondents with an optimistic attitude more often represented a higher level of acceptance of the disease according to the AIS than those with a pessimistic attitude (p=0.005).
 
Conclusions Acceptance of the disease is the final stage of adaptation to the disease, it manifests itself in the recognition of limitations and losses that result from the occurrence of a given disease entity. Therefore, accepting the disease brings many benefits that ultimately improve the course of the disease and further prognosis.
Can dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging based on radiomics improve the diagnostic efficiency of clinically significant prostate cancer?
Authors: Wu Yan , Tian Jiaming , Ma Feng , Wang Chipeng
Published: July 2024

Aims/Background Prostate cancer stands out as one of the most prevalent malignant tumours among males. The non-invasive identification of clinically significant prostate cancer via magnetic resonance imaging plays a critical role in circumventing unnecessary biopsies and determining suitable treatment strategies for patients. Our study aimed to evaluate the potential improvement in predictive accuracy for clinically significant prostate cancer by incorporating perfusion data obtained from dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging acquisition protocols into multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging parameters.

Methods Radiomics extracted from perfusion parameters (Ktrans, Kep, Ve) of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging were analysed in patients suspected of prostate cancer who underwent 3T multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging between January 2017 and June 2023 in this retrospective study. The pathological findings obtained from biopsy or therapy were categorised into groups based on the Gleason sum score as either clinically significant prostate cancer (Gleason sum score > 7) or non-clinically significant prostate cancer (Gleason sum score ≤ 6). Diagnostic models were constructed using logistic regression analysis, incorporating prostate imaging reporting and data system V2.1 scores and clinical data, with or without radiomics extracted from dynamic contrast-enhanced. The area under curve (AUC) values were compared using the DeLong test.

Results Overall, 214 men (clinically significant prostate cancer [n=78] and non-clinically significant prostate cancer [n=136]) were included. The clinical-prostate imaging reporting and data system model demonstrated an AUC of 0.89 (95% confidence interval: 0.84–0.95) in the training cohort and 0.91 (95% confidence interval: 0.84–0.98) in the test cohort. For the clinical-prostate imaging reporting and data system-radscore model, the AUC values were 0.97 (95% confidence interval: 0.95–0.99) for Ktrans, 0.98 (95% confidence interval: 0.96–1.00) for Ve, and 0.96 (95% confidence interval: 0.93–0.98) for Kep in the training cohort, and 0.97 (95% confidence interval: 0.94–1.00) for Ktrans, 0.95 (95% confidence interval: 0.91–1.00) for Ve, and 0.97 (95% confidence interval: 0.94–1.00) for Kep in the test cohort. Radiomics based on perfusion parameters exhibited good diagnostic performance in predicting clinically significant prostate cancer. The clinical-prostate imaging reporting and data system-radscore model demonstrated superior diagnostic capability compared to perfusion-based radiomics or clinical-prostate imaging reporting and data system models alone.

Conclusion The application of radiomics, which involves extracting perfusion parameters from dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging, has the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy for clinically significant prostate cancer.