bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between the efficacy of sulfonylurea therapy and structural variants of the ABCC8 (rs757110) and KCNJ11 (rs5219) genes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with different phenotypes
Authors: Bondar’ I. А. , Filipenko М. L. , Shabel’nikova О. Yu. , Sokolova Е. А.
Published: April 2024

Recently, a large number of studies have been conducted to investigate the variability of response in the treatment of diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which make personalized medicine possible. However, the available data are insufficient to decide on the choice of sugar-lowering drugs in T2DM. The search for phenotypic and clinical factors of pharmacogenetic response to therapy continues. Aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between the effectiveness of sulfonylurea therapy and structural variants of the ABCC8 (rs757110) and KCNJ11 (rs5219) genes in T2DM patients with clinical phenotypes. Material and methods. A cross-sectional clinical and pharmacogenetic study of 1271 patients with T2DM receiving sulfonylurea monotherapy (SU) or in combination with metformin and divided into three clinical phenotypes: with insulin deficiency (insulinopenic phenotype), with obesity and moderate insulin resistance (classical phenotype) and with severe insulin resistance (insulin-resistant phenotype) was performed. A glycated hemoglobin content of less than 7% was considered as a good response to SU therapy. Results. Patients with a good response to SU therapy with a classic phenotype had a longer duration of diabetes compared to patients with absence of good response (5.68 ± 5.22 vs 9.12 ± 6.10 years, respectively, p < 0.001) and a later age at diagnosis of T2DM (54.05 ± 7.18 vs 49.37 ± 7.65 years, respectively, p < 0.001); patients with an insulin-resistant phenotype had T2DM established at an older age (54.35 ± 7.91 vs 50.10 ± 7.51 years, respectively, p = 0.001). Logistic regression analysis did not reveal a statistically significant association of the genotype of the structural variant of the ABCC8 gene (rs757110) with the effectiveness of SU in clinical phenotypes. The T/T genotype of the KCNJ11 gene (rs5219) was associated with a better response to SU therapy only in the group of T2DM patients with the classic phenotype (odds ratio 1.85, 95% confidence interval 1.05–3.25, p = 0.041). Conclusions. In patients with type 2 diabetes, predictors of a good response to SU with a classic phenotype were a later age of T2DM diagnosis, a shorter duration of diabetes, and the presence of the T/T genotype of the structural variant of the KCNJ11 gene (rs5219); with an insulin-resistant phenotype, a later age of T2DM diagnosis; with the insulinopenic phenotype no clinical and genetic predictors of the SU effectiveness were identified.
Assessment of the quality of life of children having the treatment for congenital hip dislocation
Authors: Kozhevnikov V. V. , Voronchikhin Е. V. , Nechaeva А. А. , Kirilova I. А. , Korytkin А. А.
Published: April 2024

Long-term surgical treatment outcomes in children with congenital hip dislocation can be various and depend on many factors, including the age in time of surgery. The quality of life assessment systems are modern tools to study the effectiveness of previous treatment, as well as to plan subsequent comprehensive rehabilitation. Material and methods. The study included 68 children divided into the groups according to the age of the primary surgical intervention. There were three groups: group 1 – 21 patients under 1.5 years, group 2 – 22 children aged 1.5–4-years, group 3 – 25 children over 4 years. Objective medical assessment of the clinical outcomes was carried out with the McKay’s criteria. The PedsQL4.0 questionnaire, pediatric and parental forms were used to assess the patients’ quality of life. Results. The majority of children in the 1st age group had excellent results (52.3%), in the 2nd and 3rd groups there were fewer such results (40.9 and 32 %, respectively). Having analyzed the data of the questionnaires for children and their caregivers we found that the both categories from group 3 demonstrated the lowest quality of life parameters. Conclusions. The frequency of consequences such as discomfort, limping, limb length discrepancy was also higher in children underwent surgery at the age of over 4 years old. It correlates with the questionnaire results and demonstrates a lower quality of life in children from group 3.
The importance of polymorphism of the COL1A1 gene in the development of pelvic organ prolapse in women of childbearing age
Authors: Selikhova М. S. , Ershov G. V. , Ershov А. G.
Published: April 2024

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a chronic slowly progressive disease. One of the most significant risk factors for the formation of omissions and prolapses of the internal genitalia is connective tissue diseases. Type I collagen is the most common protein of the intercellular substance of connective tissue, mutation of the COL1A1 gene encoding it leads to the synthesis of a defective protein. The aim of our study was to investigate the significance of COL1A1 gene polymorphism in POP development and in the occurrence of relapses of the disease in operated patients of different age groups. Material and methods. The study included 68 patients with verified pelvic organ prolapse, divided into two age groups (n = 34 in each): the first group included women aged from 23 to 44 years, the second – aged from 46 to 72 years. In all patients, the presence of manifestations of undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia (UCTD) was assessed, a laboratory study of the polymorphism gene COL1A1 was conducted and the content of type 1 C-terminal collagen peptide (β-CrossLaps) in venous blood was measures. Results and discussion. 86.8 % of the examined patients had clinical signs of UCTD. Statistical analysis indicates that there is a relationship of the frequency of UCTD detection and severity of manifestations with age: the age of the patients with moderate to heavy UCTD (38 [37; 41] years, median [lower quartile; upper quartile]) was statistically significantly lower than that of the women with light degree (45.5 [38; 62] years; p < 0.001 years) and without UCTD (56 [48; 65] years; p < 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in the polymorphism of the COL1A1 gene between patients under 45 (1 group) and over 45 (2 group) (p = 0.25), however, there is a tendency to decrease the frequency of G/G and increase T/T types of polymorphism in women of reproductive age. In patients with recurrent POP after surgical treatment, G/G polymorphism was less common (p < 0.001) and G/T was more common (p = 0.04). The level of β-CrossLaps was higher than the normative level in 8.8 % of the examined women; in 2 cases of identified heterozygous (G/T) polymorphisms, its significant rise was noted. ROC analysis performed to identify the relationship between age, gene COL1A1 polymorphism, signs of UCTD and the level of β-CrossLaps indicates the effectiveness of the integrated use of these indicators as predictors of POP development in women of the reproductive period. Conclusions. The results of the study suggest that the features of gene COL1A1 polymorphism, the level of β-CrossLaps can serve as predictors of the development of POP in women of reproductive age with clinical manifestations of signs of UCTD. Complex of these indicators allows to develop a prognostic model of POP early manifestation.
Association between blood procollagen III N-terminal propeptide, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and triple therapy in single inhaler efficacy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease re-exacerbation prevention
Authors: Shpagina L. A. , Kotova О. S. , Shpagin I. S. , Loktin Е. М. , Kuznetsova G. V. , Karmanovskaya S. A. , Panacheva L. A. , Anikina E. V.
Published: April 2024

Triple therapy with inhaled corticosteroid (ISC) / long-acting β2 agonist (LABA) / long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) in single inhaler expanded the possibilities for prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations. Heterogeneity of COPD determines the needs in search of target population and efficacy markers for each existing therapy. Disease phenotype depends on a complex of factors, with respiratory viral infection among the most significant. Aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of triple therapy with ICS/LABA/LAMA in single inhaler for subsequent COPD exacerbations prevention and to search molecular markers of the efficacy depending the etiology of index exacerbation. Material and methods. It was a prospective observational study of three COPD patients’ strata: after COPD exacerbation required hospitalization with viral (n = 60), bacterial (n = 60) and viral-bacterial (n = 60) infection. Triple therapy in single inhaler (n = 104) or in free combinations (n = 76) were prescribed in real clinical practice. COPD was diagnosed according to spirography criteria. To establish the COPD exacerbation etiology the real time PCR of sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, standard cultural method, blood procalcitonin, as well as marker blood proteins, hyaluronic acid by ELISA measurement were done. Associations were revealed using Cox regression. Results. Triple therapy in single inhaler in comparison with free combinations decreased time to first re-exacerbation, hazard ratio (HR) in viral-associated index exacerbation strata was 0.38 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.15–0.40), in bacterial – 0.47 (0.39–0.72), in viral-bacterial – 0.39 (0.14–0.39). In strata of COPD patients after viral and viral-bacterial exacerbations, in subgroups treated with triple therapy in single inhaler blood procollagen III N-terminal propeptide (PIIINP) (HR for group after viral index exacerbations was 1.03, 95 % CI 1.02–1.28, HR for group after viral-bacterial exacerbations was 1.04, 95 % CI 1.02–1.28), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) (HR 1.03, 95 % CI 1.02–1.32, 1.01, 95 % CI 1.00–1.35, respectively) content was associated with time of re-exacerbations. Conclusions. Blood PIIINP and GM-CSF during COPD exacerbation are perspective markers of subsequent exacerbations within 1 year in patients after virus-associated or viral-bacterial index exacerbation. In these groups of patients triple therapy in single inhaler is more effective than free combination for subsequent exacerbations prevention.
Myofascial release in the treatment of lumbar pain in pregnant women
Authors: Fedorov D. V , Kirgizova O. Yu.
Published: April 2024

The prevalence of back pain in pregnant women is quite high nowadays. A special place is given to myofascial pain. They progress with the course of pregnancy and can lead to a decrease in a woman’s quality of life. However, the issues of back pain treatment, including the selection of methods and doctors training, still remain unresolved. The aim of our work was to identify the effect of manual therapy (in particular, myofascial release) on the dynamics of pain syndrome in pregnant women with low back pain. Material and methods. The study involved 90 patients of the MIRT Medical Center (Krasnoyarsk) with myofascial lumbosacral pain syndrome at different gestation phases. We used myofascial release techniques and training device to retrained their muscular system. We evaluated the effectiveness of treatment by using a visual analog scale of pain, test with two scales (patented model) and manual muscle testing methods. Results and discussion. The average pain score was 5 points before treatment and 0.6 points after treatment. Pain completely disappeared in most patients after treatment. The maximum decrease in pain score showed women in the third trimester. The pathological difference in the load on the limbs after treatment was 17 times less than before treatment, for all trimesters in general. In the first trimester it was not detected at all. The study revealed correlation between the pain syndrome and positive sacroiliac ligament compression test. Conclusions. We have developed a general scheme for examination and treatment of back pain in pregnant using patented technologies and myofascial release technics. It has proven to be effective in reducing lower back pain at different gestation phases. Tension in the sacroiliac ligaments should be investigated in the future and taken into account for back pain treatment of pregnant women, as well as at pregnancy planning stage.
Blinding (masking) in non-clinical studies to improve reproducibity and translability (literary review)
Authors: Makarova M. N. , Kovaleva M. A. , Makarov V. G.
Published: April 2024

Background. Despite numerous measures it is still impossible to overcome translational barriers and increase the reproducibility of the results obtained. The most significant procedures that improve the reliability of in vivo studies are randomization and blinding (masking). Conducting randomization does not require significant resources. In contrast, blinding is a more labor-intensive process. Research

   Objective. To analyze the scientific literature on the use of blinding in preclinical studies to further elaborate an algorithm for this procedure in a particular testing center.

   Materials and methods. Publications were searched in PubMed and Google Scholar databases (until April 30, 2023).

   Results. A literature review of blinding in preclinical studies was conducted, methods and the stages of scientific work at which this procedure can be performed were reviewed. An algorithm for partial study blinding that does not require additional specialists has been proposed. It is shown that the application of blinding allows to increase the reliability of the obtained data. If full blinding cannot be performed, it is necessary to evaluate which stages of the preclinical study can be blinded. Appropriate procedures should be developed and implemented to perform blinding in the preclinical center.

   Conclusions. The proposed blinding algorithm can significantly reduce the influence of the specialist(s) on the experiment or interpretation of the data obtained.
Adaptation of the technique of determination of mitochondrial membrane potential change in C2C12 cells using the ready set “Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Kit” (Sigma-Aldrich)
Authors: Vlasova Yu. A. , Klimenko E. S. , Sukhareva K. S. , Gavrilova L. S. , Kostareva A. A.
Published: April 2024

Background. We used the “Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Kit” (Sigma-Aldrich) to detected MMP but encountered difficulties by applied this kit because in manual there not JC-10 concentration and it not allowing for account cell type, size, density, differences in incubation time for different cell cultures.

   Objective. Adaptation of the method for determining MMP (mitochondrial membrane potential) in C2C12 cells using in microplate reader and electron microscope.

   Design and methods. MMP in C2C12 cells was measured by two way, using fluorescence microscopy (Zeiss, Zen program) and using a plate fluorimeter (CLARIOstar (BMG LABTECH). JC-10 and TMRE dyes (Sigma-Aldrich) were used as fluorescent probes.

   Results. Optimal conditions for detection changes in mitochondrial membrane potential in C2C12 cells were selected. 100- fold dilution of the dye JC-10 (Dye Loading Solution) and replacement of the manufactured buffer to PBS led to repeatability and reproducibility results.

   Conclusion. When using ready-made kits for measuring MMP, the method proposed by the manufacturer may not be suitable for the selected cell line. In our study to mouse myoblasts of the C2C12 line, a dilution of the dye for loading was required 100 times compared to that recommended by the manufacturer.
Estudio Preliminar de Galaxias Espirales Aisladas Utilizando la Transformada Bidimensional de Fourier Rápida
Authors: Diaz-Fonseca J.M. , Vera-Villamizar N. , Gonzalez-Cañon E.J. , Poveda Tejada N. , Valderrama Vergara J.A.
Published: April 2024

Realizamos un análisis morfológico de la estructura espiral a dos galaxias espirales aisladas: NGC 2756 y NGC 2776. El objetivo fundamental de esta investigación es lograr una comprensión más profunda de cómo se distribuye la estructura espiral en las galaxias de disco. Para esto, Utilizamos el método de la transformada rápida de Fourier en dos dimensiones y realizamos un análisis exhaustivo de los espectros de Fourier y las funciones de densidad radial (RDF) para examinar sus patrones y características. Los resultados indican que el modo principal de la estructura espiral es m = 2. Sin embargo, utilizando las RDF identificamos que los otros modos pueden ser relevantes en algún punto del disco galáctico como m = 3, este resultado sugiere la existencia de múltiples estructuras espirales según la región de análisis.
Análisis morfológico de la Estructura Espiral de Galaxias en Interacción
Authors: Diaz-Fonseca J.M. , Valderrama-Vergara J.A. , Forero-Moreno M.K. , Vera-Villamizar N. , Poveda Tejada N.
Published: April 2024

Esta investigación se centró en el estudio de las estructuras espirales múltiples en galaxias que experimentan diversos tipos de interacciones, con un enfoque específico en las galaxias NGC 4254 y NGC 5985. Utilizando la transformada de Fourier bidimensional, la investigación proporciona información sobre las complejas características morfológicas de estas galaxias. NGC 4254, clasificada como SA(s)c, revela modos m=1 y m=2 prominentes en el análisis de Fourier, lo que indica estructuras espirales continuas que se extienden desde el núcleo hasta las regiones exteriores. En el caso de NGC 5985, clasificada como SAB(r)b, los modos de Fourier dominantes son m=1 y m=2. El estudio midió la longitud de la barra hasta los 3.9 kpc y un anillo con un radio de 10.9 kpc. La presencia de estructuras espirales discontinuas, atribuidas a las numerosas bifurcaciones en los brazos espirales. En resumen, esta investigación arroja valiosa información sobre la naturaleza de las estructuras espirales múltiples en galaxias que están en interacción. La transformada de Fourier bidimensional se presenta como una herramienta valiosa para descubrir detalles morfológicos, proporcionando información clave sobre las historias evolutivas e influencias ambientales de NGC 4254 y NGC 5985.
Concentración de Radón en la Minería de Carbón en Corrales - Boyacá
Authors: Franco-Becerra A.C , Martínez-Ovalle S.A , Montañez-Reyes A.T. , Sajó-Bohus L.
Published: April 2024

Las concentraciones de radón 222Rn se pueden cuantificar usando mediciones activas y pasivas (in situ). Este gas radiactivo en espacios cerrados como las minas subterráneas de carbón es un enemigo silencioso, debido a que su inhalación en altas concentraciones puede inducir un cáncer de pulmón en los trabajadores de este entorno cuando son sometidos a largos periodos de exposición. Actualmente Colombia no cuenta con protocolos de medición y prevención de este gas radiactivo, por lo que el principal objetivo de este trabajo es medir las concentraciones de 222Rn a las cuales están expuestos los trabajadores de la mina de carbón El Volcán ubicada en el municipio de Corrales en el departamento de Boyacá, Colombia. Para esto, se realizó un mapeo radiológico al interior de la mina utilizando detectores de trazas nucleares ubicados al interior de cámaras de difusión. Un total de 32 puntos de medición fueron monitoreados durante un periodo de 60 días obteniendo tasas de dosis que oscilan entre 700 - 2000  Bq * m^-3, que al ser comparados con los límites permisibles recomendados por la ICRP encontramos que se encuentran dentro del rango permitido en espacios cerrados, estas mediciones fueron extrapoladas para calcular la probabilidad de riesgo radiológico asociado a cáncer de pulmón en esta mina en particular En conclusión, de los cálculos realizados encontramos bajas concentraciones de este gas radiactivo 222Rn y por consiguiente baja dosis absorbidas por el personal.
SPLINE OPTIMIZATION OF SOFT CONNECTIVES IN MACHINE LEARNING MODELS
Authors: Kalnitsky Vyacheslav , Vilkov Valery
Published: April 2024

In this study, the problem of limited accuracy of machine learning models using soft logical connectives is investigated. Such connectives have shown their effectiveness in models with fuzzy initial data. On the one hand, the fundamental disadvantage of soft connectives is their non-associativity. On the other hand, the disadvantages of the currently used soft connectives include the loss of monotonicity and the inability to control several factors simultaneously. All these problems have been solved by the authors. We have proposed an approximation of the signum function by a ?1-smooth spline. The first part of the spline is responsible for the curvature of the connective at the diagonal and is adjustable. The second part of the spline is the solution to the optimization problem. We minimized the difference between the connective and the associative connective, the latter in our study was the minimum function. In the resulting solution, the rate of deviation reduction is the highest among known connectives. We have achieved not only a small deviation from associativity, but also the presence of a large domain of exact associativity. This area is up to a third of the volume of all triples of arguments. A comparative analysis of the currently used soft connectives with the constructed model was carried out. It was shown that the spline approximation is able to reduce the influence of all negative factors and is more flexible in setting. Moreover, the constructed spline model allows numerous modifications depending on the factor that requires the most attention for different tasks.
Enhancing the Adaptative Gamification Process Through User Behavior and Context
Authors: Torres Diego , Garrido Juan Enrique , Dalponte Ayastuy María , Fernandez Alejandro , Collazos Cesar A.
Published: April 2024

This article presents an innovative approach to developing a strategy for situational awareness in an adaptive gamification framework within the context of Collaborative location-based collecting systems (CLCS). The proposed approach involves incorporating five key factors that represent user behavior and context in the adaptive gamification process for CLCS. These factors include player preferences, player status, gamified activities, groupware activities, and project goal status. Each factor is crucial in describing various aspects of the framework and groupware interaction that players should be aware of during their game experience. By acquiring knowledge about these five axes, users can analyze and react appropriately to various situations. This modeling approach enables the early development of awareness and facilitates decision-making. Ultimately, this article serves as a useful guide for improving existing frameworks and enhancing the overall user experience through situational awareness.
The Stateless Legal Clinic: Innovative Models for Addressing Unmet Legal Need in Australia through Clinical Legal Education
Authors: Robertson Katie
Published: April 2024

The Stateless Legal Clinic is a unique service providing legal education and aid to eligible stateless children in their application for Australian citizenship. It also provides law students at the University of Melbourne with the opportunity to gain practical legal experience and engage in experiential learning, through a clinical legal education elective subject offered within the Juris Doctor (JD) degree. The Stateless Legal Clinic aims to address a critical gap in legal services for stateless children in Australia and situates clinical legal education within the relatively new and emerging discipline of ‘statelessness studies.’ Through an examination of Australia's legal framework for addressing the global human rights issue of statelessness, this article examines the design and operation of the Stateless Legal Clinic, arguing that clinical legal education can provide innovative models for increasing access to justice for communities often overlooked or under-serviced by the legal industry.
Turist Rehberlerinin İnanç Turizmi’ne İlişkin Algıları, Sorumluluk Alma Eğilimleri ve Uzmanlaşma Niyetleri Üzerine Nicel Bir Araştırma
Authors: Şahin İlker
Published: April 2024

İnanç Turizmi dini motivasyonlarla seyahat eden turist sayısındaki artışla birlikte bu alanda zengin kültürel mirasa, kutsal mekanlara ve köklü tarihsel geçmişe sahip ülkelerin ekonomilerinde önemli bir dinamik haline gelmektedir. Bu araştırmada profesyonel turist rehberlerinin, İnanç Turizmi’ne ilişkin algılarının, gönüllü olma ile sorumluluk alma eğilimlerinin, inanç turlarında görev yapma ve mesleki uzmanlaşma niyetlerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Nicel yönteme dayalı araştırma kapsamında 262 turist rehberine anket uygulanmıştır. Bulgular, rehberlerin İnanç Turizmi algısının ekonomi, “tanıtım, politika, rehber, eğitim ve turist” olmak üzere toplam 6 boyuttan meydana geldiği ortaya koymuştur. Bulgulara göre olumlu ekonomik algı, İnanç Turizmi’nin geliştirilmesine ilişkin sorumluluk alma eğilimi ile inanç turlarında rehberlik yapma ve mesleki uzmanlaşma niyeti üzerinde anlamlı bir etkiye sahiptir. Tanıtım yetersizliğine ilişkin algı rehberlerin sorumluluk üstlenme ve ilgili projelerde gönüllü rehber rolünde görev alma eğilimlerini etkilemektedir. Rehberlerin mesleki deneyimleri arttıkça, İnanç Turizmi’nde aktif sorumluluk alma eğilimlerinde azalma olduğu ortaya çıkmıştır. Rehberlerin büyük bir çoğunluğunun İnanç Turizmi’nde mesleki uzmanlaşma eğitimi almadıkları tespit edilmiştir. Rehberler en fazla Hıristiyanlık, Müslümanlık, Musevilik ve Süryanilik üzerine mesleki uzmanlaşma niyeti taşımaktadırlar.
EDEBİYATIN UYGUNSUZ KAHRAMANLARI
Authors: Gürçay Serdar , Sarıgöllü Meryem
Published: April 2024

Kitap tanıtım yazısı olduğu için öz yazılmamıştır.
Study protocol: Responsiveness of Postural Control of Children With and Without a Developmental Coordination Disorder After Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation
Authors: De Moura Maria C. D. S. , Hazime Fuad A. , Baptista Abrahão F. , Oliveira Jorge A. , Hasue Renata H.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects around 5% of school-age children worldwide. DCD negatively impacts motor repertoire, quality of life, and overall health. One of the main motor impairments affecting activity and participation is poor postural balance. Although the neural basis of DCD is not yet clear, morphological and functional alterations have been found in children with DCD in crucial areas for postural control, such as the cerebellum and the primary motor cortex. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive technique for inducing synaptic modulation, promoting neuromodulation that can help in understanding physiopathology and determining therapeutic strategies for people with DCD.
AIM: The proposed randomized clinical trial will verify the immediate effects of tDCS in the primary motor cortex and the cerebellum on postural balance in children with and without DCD.
METHOD: Fifteen children with DCD and 15 typically developing children will be randomized to receive a single session of anodal cerebellar tDCS, cathodal cerebellar tDCS, anodal primary motor cortex tDCS, or sham tDCS in a crossover design. Postural balance will be assessed by posturography with and without visual and somatosensory system manipulation immediately before and after each tDCS session.
RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION: This paper presents a detailed description protocol of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover clinical trial. The results can bolster understanding of the postural control of children with DCD compared to children with typical development as well as knowledge about the possible effects of tDCS on the postural balance of such children.
Emerging data on immune checkpoint inhibitors in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant setting for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ruff Samantha M. , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: April 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a form of liver cancer that commonly arises in patients with chronic liver disease. Patients who present with early-stage disease, even after curative intent resection or ablation, are likely to develop local recurrence or metastatic disease. Chronic inflammation disrupts the tightly relegated immune system of the liver, making it more susceptible to carcinogenesis. In turn, research has focused on leveraging immunotherapy for these patients. This approach has primarily been accomplished through immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are monoclonal antibodies that inhibit immune checkpoints and restore T cells’ activity against cancer cells. The IMbrave150 and HIMALAYA trials established immunotherapy as the first-line treatment for patients with advanced HCC. Therefore, there has been interest in expanding the indications for immunotherapy among patients with HCC to the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings. Furthermore, locoregional therapies, like radiation therapy, may be able to prime the tumor microenvironment and make it more susceptible to immunotherapy, thereby improving response to treatment. We herein review recent research and clinical trials focused on the use of immunotherapy in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant setting for patients with HCC.
Current status and challenges of 3D navigation in partial nephrectomy
Authors: Magaribuchi Toshihiro , Masui Kimihiko , Goto Takayuki , Saito Ryoichi , Kobayashi Takashi
Published: April 2024

Partial nephrectomy, a standard treatment for small renal cancers, has evolved through minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic and robot-assisted partial nephrectomy. The use of three-dimensional (3D) kidney models derived from preoperative computed tomography (CT) images has been investigated to improve surgical outcomes. This review explores various navigation techniques, such as 3D printing, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR), to address organ movement and deformation challenges during surgery. Despite the promising positive impact of these methods, as revealed by a systematic review in 2022, achieving the desired navigation accuracy remains elusive. The use of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality, capable of overlaying the 3D model onto the surgical image in real-time, has shown potential. Still, we need advanced techniques, for instance, non-rigid 3D models employing nonlinear parametric deformation, to adapt to organ deformation. Additionally, the application of deep learning from artificial intelligence for high accuracy 3D navigation is an emerging area of interest. Although considerable progress has been achieved, a comprehensive, widely adoptable solution has yet to be discovered. The paper underscores the necessity for ongoing research and development in 3D navigation methods, anticipating their substantial contribution to future surgical procedures.
Mechanical marvels: robots in carotid artery stenting - a systematic review of effectiveness in neuroendovascular interventions
Authors: Łajczak Paweł Marek , Jóźwik Kamil , Nawrat Zbigniew
Published: April 2024

Aim: Carotid artery disease, or carotid stenosis, is a critical medical condition carrying the risk of stroke and fatality. The underlying pathology involves the accumulation of atheromatous plaques, leading to luminal constriction and disrupted blood flow. Endovascular interventions, such as carotid artery stenting (CAS), aim to restore vessel patency. Robotic assistance in CAS surgeries is rapidly evolving globally, offering precision and fatigue-free capabilities. Despite growing interest, a dedicated systematic review on robotic applications in CAS is notably absent.

Methods: Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a comprehensive search strategy involving five databases. Data extraction encompassed study origin, patient demographics, procedural details, procedure times, complications, fluoroscopy, and radiation parameters.

Results: Over 199 articles were identified from five databases. Seven studies meeting inclusion criteria were analyzed. The predominant robotic system, CorPath GRX, demonstrated advantages such as remote operation, precision, and compatibility with various catheter sizes. Magellan Robotic System, employed in one study, showcased remote-controlled capabilities. These studies involved a total of 44 patients undergoing carotid artery stenosis procedures with robotic assistance. Reported complications included access site conversion, Angio-Seal device failure, and residual stenosis. Mean operation time varied from 34 to 85 min.

Conclusions: The integration of robotic assistance in carotid interventions, as demonstrated by the CorPath GRX and Magellan Robotic System, holds significant promise in improving the precision and safety of CAS procedures. However, the limited number of studies, the high risk of bias, and the need for further research and standardization highlight the evolving nature of this technology.
Electrochemical detection of extracellular vesicles for early diagnosis: a focus on disease biomarker analysis
Authors: Zheng Jintao , Zhou Runzhi , Wang Bing , He Chang , Bai Shiyao , Yan Haoyang , Yu Jiacheng , Li Huaiguang , Peng Bo , Gao Zhaoli , Li Chen-zhong , Jiang Cheng , Guo Keying
Published: April 2024

This review article presents a detailed examination of the integral role that electrochemical detection of extracellular vesicles (EVs) plays, particularly focusing on the potential application for early disease diagnostics through EVs biomarker analysis. Through an exploration of the benefits and challenges presented by electrochemical detection vetted for protein, lipid, and nucleic acid biomarker analysis, we underscore the significance of these techniques. Evidence from recent studies renders this detection modality imperative in identifying diverse biomarkers from EVs, leading to early diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Recent advancements that have led to enhanced sensitivity, specificity and point-of-care testing (POCT) potential are elucidated, along with equipment deployed for electrochemical detection. The review concludes with a contemplation of future perspectives, recognizing the potential shifts in disease diagnostics and prognosis, necessary advances for broad adoption, and potential areas of ongoing research. The objective is to propel further investigation into this rapidly burgeoning field, thereby facilitating a potential paradigm shift in disease detection, monitoring, and treatment toward human health management.
A taxonomy for cybersecurity standards
Authors: Kalogeraki Eleni-Maria , Polemi Nineta
Published: April 2024

Cybersecurity standards on a global scale are exhaustive, appealing to several types, such as glossaries, guidelines, methods, and objectives (e.g., Information Technology evaluation, requirement identification, risk management, and technical specifications). This chaotic range of standards towards the rapid pace of technological and threat evolution hinders stakeholders (e.g., security architects/developers, policymakers, testers, and auditors) from discovering which standards best meet their security needs. The paper analyzes this challenge and contributes to harmonizing standards by identifying relationships between the EU regulation and prominent cybersecurity standards. The current work develops a taxonomy that classifies cybersecurity standards according to their objective, usage, and sector, aiming to help stakeholders understand their purpose and decide which they should adopt to cover their organizational needs. The taxonomy is represented in a semantic ontology, following the Web Ontology Language Edition 2 knowledge engineering approach. A realistic scenario is described to illustrate the applicability of the taxonomy.
Development of Flip Book-Based Cooperative Training Module to Enhance The Creative Character of Cooperative Administrators
Authors: Jayadi Ahmad , Ratumbuysang Monry Fraick Nicky Gillian , Satrio Adrie , Mansur Hamsi
Published: April 2024

Cooperatives play a key role in supporting the growth and progress of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in various economic sectors. Training can be done to develop the quality of human resources, including training and developing the creative way of thinking of cooperative administrators. This research aims to produce a flip book-based cooperative training module to improve the creative character of cooperative administrators. The research method used is research and development. The modified model used is the ADDIE design. Evaluation by experts and individual trials of the training module resulted in recommendations for revision, receiving a rating of "very good." Research data came from 23 representatives of cooperative administrators who participated in the training, with small group test results also reaching the "very good" category. Data collection was carried out through interviews, group discussions (FGD), consultation with experts, and the distribution of questionnaires. The results of the field trial showed that the flip book-based training module significantly improved the creative thinking abilities of the training participants. Thus, the research results conclude that the flip book-based cooperative training module has been tested for its feasibility and can be effectively used in basic training for cooperative administrators to improve creative character. The increase in creative character can be seen from comparing the pre-test and post-test scores of the training participants. The average pre-test score for training participants before using the flip book-based training module media was 7.36, while the average post-test score for training participants after using the flip book-based training module was 8.23. The students' pre-test and post-test gain test results obtained a score of 69.35% in the "quite effective" category. The increase in creative character can also be seen from the results of the creative character questionnaire for cooperative administrators, which had a percentage value of 81.25% or was categorized as very strong. This means there is a very strong increase in the creative character of cooperative management after attending the training.
The Effect of Inquiry-Based Learning on Pharmacist Students
Authors: Rizki Muhammad Ikhwan , Lingga Herningtyas Nautika , Intannia Difa , Rahmatullah Satrio Wibowo , Putra Aditya Maulana Perdana , Silviana Mega
Published: April 2024

One of the influential factors in shaping professional health workers is the learning process during education. The professional attitude of pharmacy students can be modified with innovative learning methods. Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) emphasizes students' involvement in systematically, critically, and logically gathering information so that they can formulate their findings. This study aims to determine the effect of IBL on pharmacist professional study program education students taking Pharmacy Communication and Health Promotion courses. This study employed quasi-experimental research with a group Pretest-Posttest Design. The study subjects were 40 students of the Pharmacist Professional Education Study Program. The students got learning interventions with IBL method. IBL stages consist of IBL orientation, problem formulation, hypothesis formulation, data collection, hypothesis testing, conclusion formulation, and learning evaluation. Assessment instrumentation included pretests, posttests, reports, and student satisfaction questionnaires. Pretest and posttest data were statistically analyzed with SPSS. The implementation of IBL resulted in an increase in mean scores from 59.82 on the pretest to 92.83 on the posttest. There is a statistically significant difference between these results (Asymp. Sig 0.000). The proportion of student reports rated as excellent 70%, good 20%, and sufficient 5%. Student satisfaction with the learning method reached an average of 93.94%. Inquiry-based learning increases the knowledge of Pharmacist Professional Education Study Program students in the Pharmacy Communication and Health Promotion courses.
Di Mana Bumi Dipijak Di Situ Langit Dijunjung: Urgensi Integrasi Budaya dalam Intervensi Psikologi
Authors: Damanik Novitasari Rohdearni
Published: April 2024

Dalam konteks Era Society 5.0 yang semakin kompleks, tulisan ini menekankan pentingnya integrasi budaya dalam intervensi psikologi serta perlunya mempertimbangkan faktor budaya dalam merancang intervensi yang efektif. Psikologi, terutama melalui teknik nudge, memiliki potensi besar dalam mengubah perilaku manusia. Namun, teknik nudge yang berhasil dalam satu budaya belum tentu berhasil dalam budaya lainnya, sebab budaya berperan dala, memengaruhi persepsi, nilai, hinga pembuatan keputusan individu. Melalui beberapa bahasan atas intervensi-intervensi sebelumnya, tampak bahwa budaya yang diabaikan dalam intervensi akan membuat intervensi tidak efektif. Oleh karena itu, responsif terhadap perbedaan budaya menjadi kunci untuk merancang intervensi yang relevan dan efektif. Dalam menghadapi tantangan ini, memahami keragaman budaya secara mendalam akan memperkaya perspektif dan strategi intervensi psikologis, menjadikannya lebih responsif dan terhadap kebutuhan masyarakat.
Karakterisasi Minyak Hasil Pirolisis Berbahan Dasar Serut Gergaji Kayu Akasia (Acacia mangium) dengan Variasi Suhu pada Pirolisis
Authors: Togatorop Elida , Erdawati Erdawati , Priyanto Sugeng
Published: April 2024

Abstrak
Bahan bakar merupakan salah satu kebutuhan yang sangat penting bagi kehidupan sehari-hari dengan penggunaan yang sangat signifikan. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mendapatkan bahan bakar alternatif berbasis biomasa dengan metode pirolisis lambat. Pada proses pirolisis lambat menggunakan variasi suhu 250°C, 300°C, dan 350°C. Suhu optimum minyak hasil pirolisis serut gergaji kayu akasia diperoleh pada suhu 300°C. Minyak hasil pirolisis dari serut gergaji kayu akasia yang dihasilkan memiliki karakteristik fisika yakni viskositas 4,62 cSt, densitas 0,99 gram/mL, dan pH 3,53 serta mengandung komponen senyawa fenol, alkohol, keton dan senyawa asam organik. Dari senyawa komponen yang diperoleh adalah dominan mengandung senyawa fenol yang merupakan hasil degradasi lignin.
Kata kunci: GC-MS, minyak pirolisis, pirolisis
Abstract
Fuel is one of the needs that is very important for everyday life with a very significant use. This research was conducted to obtain biomass-based alternative fuels using slow pyrolysis method. The slow pyrolysis process use temperature variations of 250 °C, 300 °C, and 350 °C. The optimum temperature of the oil from the acacia sawdust pyrolysis was obtained at 300 °C. Pyrolysis oil from acacia wood saw drawnings produced has physical characteristics viscosity 4.62 cSt, density 0.99 g/mL, and pH 3.53 and contains components of phenol compounds, alcohols, ketones and organic acid. From the component obtained, phenol compounds are the result of lignin degradation.
Keywords: GC-MS, pyrolysis oil, pyrolysis
Pengaruh Penambahan Triptamin sebagai Antioksidan untuk Gasoline
Authors: Fajrin Nur Mei Alfi , Zulmanelis Zulmanelis , Yusniati Yusniati
Published: April 2024

Abstrak
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui potensi triptamin sebagai antioksidan untuk gasoline serta pengaruhnya terhadap sifat fisik gasoline. Metode yang digunakan yaitu pengujian aktivitas antioksidan melalui uji periode induksi dan massa gum, sedangkan untuk sifat fisik yang diujikan diantaranya densitas, viskositas kinematik dan warna. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan peningkatan nilai induksi dan kadar gum setelah penambahan triptamin sebanyak 500 ppm. Nilai induksi yang diperoleh yaitu 1300 menit dan nilai gum sebesar 56,2667 g/50 mL. Hasil uji densitas dan viskositas gasoline diperoleh penurunan nilai dibandingkan tanpa antioksidan. Pada nilai warna gasoline terjadi penurunan nilai setelah ditambahkan triptamin sebesar 16.6, sedangkan tanpa antioksidan diperoleh 20,1. Berdasarkan data yang diperoleh diketahui bahwa triptamin dapat digunakan sebagai zat antioksidan untuk gasoline.
Kata kunci: antioksidan, amina aromatik, gasoline
Abstract
This research aims to investigate the potential of tryptamine as an antioxidant for gasoline and its effect on gasoline physical properties. The method used this research is the antioxidant activity of tryptamine tested by induction period and mass of gum, while physical properties tested were density, kinematic viscosity, and color. The results of the induction value and gum level test showed an increase after the addition of tryptamine as much as 500 ppm. Induction and gum value obtained is 1300 minutes, and 56.2667 g/50 mL. The results of the density and gasoline viscosity test obtained value decrease compared without antioxidants. The value of gasoline color decline in value after added by tryptamine as much as 16.6, while without antioxidants obtained as much as 20.1. Based on the data in this research, it can be concluded that tryptamine can be act as an antioxidant for gasoline.
Keywords: antioxidant,aromatic amine, gasoline
Patient-Specific, In-House Surgical Guides in Surgery-First Approach in Orthognathic Surgery: A Technical Note
Authors: Shino Inleel Lundgård , Sefidroodi Mohammedreza , Vassis Stratos , Buhl Jytte , Jakobsen Anders Mølgaard , Hammer Karen Eich , Pedersen Thomas Klit , Nørholt Sven Erik
Published: April 2024

Aim of the study: This article introduces an in-house workflow implementing patient-specific surgical cutting guides and spacers combined with pre-adapted osteosynthesis in two Surgery First Orthognathic Approach (SFOA) scenarios.
Background: The integration of three-dimensional virtual surgical planning (VSP) in combination with computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) has advanced the field of orthognathic surgery. With the use of surgical guides and patient specific implants (PSI) the accuracy of the surgical outcome could potentially increase. While PSI approaches offer advantages, commercial PSIs are characterized by a prolonged turnaround time and high costs.These drawbacks linked with commercial PSIs might restrict their utilization and acceptance.
Technical note: The VSP was completed in Dolphin Imaging software. 3-Matic software was used to design the cutting guides and spacers. The anterior spacers where specifically designed to utilize the wedge-technique during positioning of the anterior segment in segmented Le Fort I osteotomy. The surgical guides and spacers were manufactured in Form 3B 3D printer with BioMed Clear V1 Resin with 0.100 mm layer thickness. Titanium plates 2.0 from Biomet were customized based on a 3D-model of the planned postsurgical outcome based on the VSP.
Conclusion: The in-house methodology for developing and employing personalized surgical guides, spacers and pre-adapted titanium plates offers a viable workflow for SFOA, with the potential to enhance the reliability and precision of maxillary repositioning.
(t, m) threshold Quantum Secret Sharing with Group Authentication
Authors: Mawlia Priyanka , Siwach Vikash , Bijaranian Pankaj
Published: April 2024

Quantum secret sharing plays a key role as a foundational method for disseminating a secret to all participants in quantum cryptography. Group authentication plays a significant role in safeguarding information, as it confirms the identity of communication parties. This paper presents a \(d-\)level \((t, m)\) threshold quantum secret-sharing scheme combined with group authentication. Group members can simultaneously authenticate their identities through group authentication. Leveraging the Lagrange interpolation polynomial, the group authentication method disperses multiple secret shares to group members and later allows joint verification of some or all members. According to our analysis, the complexities of our group authentication scheme are much lower than those found in widely recognized existing group authentication methods. This algorithm allows each participant to keep their secret shares secure and undisclosed. By avoiding transmission of these shares, external eavesdroppers are unable to obtain any secret information. This protocol offers security, efficiency, and practicality. Security analysis reveals its ability to resist intercept-resend attacks, entangle-measure attacks, collusion attacks, and forgery attacks. The proposed scheme ensures both confidentiality and integrity.