bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection and Classification of Brain Tumors From MRI Images Using a Deep Convolutional Neural Network Approach
Authors: Menaouer Brahami , El-Houda Kebir Nour , Zoulikha Dermane , Mohammed Sabri , Matta Nada
Published: January 2022

Brain tumor is a severe cancer disease caused by uncontrollable and abnormal partitioning of cells. Timely disease detection and treatment plans lead to the increased life expectancy of patients. Automated detection and classification of brain tumor are a more challenging process which is based on the clinician’s knowledge and experience. For this fact, one of the most practical and important techniques is to use deep learning. Recent progress in the ﬁelds of deep learning has helped the clinician’s in medical imaging for medical diagnosis of brain tumor. In this paper, we present a comparison of Deep Convolutional Neural Network models for automatically binary classification query MRI images dataset with the goal of taking precision tools to health professionals based on fined recent versions of DenseNet, Xception, NASNet-A, and VGGNet. The experiments were conducted using an MRI open dataset of 3,762 images. Other performance measures used in the study are the area under precision, recall, and specificity.
Rate and risk factors of postoperative endoscopic recurrence of moderate- to high-risk Crohn's disease patients - A real-world experience from a Middle Eastern cohort
Authors: Azzam Nahla , AlRuthia Yazed , Al Thaher Abdulla , Almadi Majid , Alharbi Othman , Altuwaijri Mansour , Alshankiti Suliman , Alanazi Mohammed , Alanazi Abdulelah , Aljebreen Abdulrahman , Regueiro Miguel
Published: January 2022

Background:

Crohn's disease (CD) frequently recurs after intestinal resection. Azathioprine (AZA) and biological therapies have shown efficacy in preventing postoperative recurrence (POR). Data on POR from Middle Eastern populations is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the rate of endoscopic POR in a cohort of CD patients who underwent ileocecal resection (ICR), and to assess the effectiveness of AZA and biological therapies in reducing the risk of disease recurrence.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study on 105 CD patients followed at our center, who underwent ileal resection and were at moderate to high risk for POR. Clinical and laboratory data were collected; the primary endpoint was post ICR endoscopic recurrence at 24 months defined by Rutgeerts' score of i2 or more despite treatment.

Results:

In total, 105 patients with Crohn's disease met our inclusion criteria; 76.2% were in remission and did not have endoscopic POR at 24 months. Further, 41.9% were on biological therapy, and 34.3% were mainly on AZA. Out of the 28.2% who had POR, approximately 15% were on biological therapies. Penetrating phenotype was the only predictive factor for decreasing POR (OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.04–0.98, P = 0.04) as identified in multiple logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions:

The use of biological therapies post-surgery was not superior than AZA in reducing the endoscopic POR for mod- high risk CD patients. Only penetrating behavior of the CD was associated with significantly lower risk of endoscopic recurrence. This finding is worth further investigation in more robust study designs and among larger samples of patients.
Predicting the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis B patients receiving antiviral therapy
Authors: Wang Shuai , Liu Bingwei , Fan Xuemei , Gao Yang , Hong Mingqi , Xu Yan
Published: January 2022

Background:

We aimed to validate the predictive value of the cirrhosis, age, male sex, and diabetes (CAMD) score and age, albumin, sex, and liver cirrhosis (AASL) score for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, treated with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUCs) in Northeast China.

Methods:

From January 2009 to June 2020, 945 patients diagnosed with CHB who received NUC therapy at China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University were included. Comprehensive medical records were retrospectively analyzed, and the predictive values of the CAMD score and AASL score for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 58 patients (5.94%) were diagnosed with HCC. Multivariate analysis revealed that age [odds ratio (OR) = 1.041, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.009–1.073, P < 0.011] and cirrhosis (OR = 3.297, 95% CI 1.383–7.861, P < 0.007) were independent predictors of HCC. Either the CAMD or AASL score was significantly higher in the HCC group compared to the non-HCC group. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of CAMD and AASL was 0.721 (95% CI 0.663–0.780) and 0.718 (95% CI 0.662–0.774), respectively. Risk stratification using either CAMD or AASL revealed significant differences in the one-, three-, and five-year cumulative incidence rates of HCC between the low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups (all P < 0.001, log-rank test).

Conclusions:

Both CAMD and AASL scores have predictive value for HCC risk of CHB patients in Northeast China. In future, the optimal monitoring frequency and methods should be personalized.
Gastrointestinal manifestations of COVID-19 in a single center in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al Argan Reem J. , Ismail Mona H. , Alkhafaji Dania M. , Alsulaiman Raed M. , Ismaeel Fatimah E. , AlSulaiman Reem S. , Almajid Ali N. , Alsheekh Lameyaa , Alsaif Tariq S. , Alzaki Alaa A. , Alqatari Safi G. , Alwaheed Abrar J. , Al Said Abir H. , Al Wazzeh Marwan J. , AlQurain Abdulaziz A.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Several gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms have been associated with novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Their prevalence and relation to the severity and hospital outcome of COVID-19 have not been well reported in the Middle East and Saudi Arabia. We aimed to examine the GI manifestations of COVID-19 and their association with the severity and hospital outcome of COVID-19 infection.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective observational study of hospitalized COVID-19 patients who had a positive SARS-COV2 PCR test and were admitted at a university hospital in Saudi Arabia, from March to September 2020. The primary objective of the study was to describe the GI manifestations of COVID-19. The secondary objective was to investigate the association of GI manifestations with severity and outcome of COVID-19 infection.

Results:

We included 390 patients, of which 111 (28.5%) presented with GI manifestations. The most common presentation was diarrhea followed by nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Patients without GI manifestations had a higher risk of severe-critical COVID-19 infection evident by the development of lung infiltration in more than 50% of lung fields within 24–48 h, acute respiratory distress syndrome, altered mental status, multiorgan failure, and cytokine storm syndrome (P < 0.05). These patients had a higher mortality rate compared to patients with GI manifestations (P = 0.01). A lower odds of death was seen among patients with GI symptoms (AOR 0.36; 95% CI, 0.158–0.82; P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

COVID-19 infection presents commonly with GI manifestations. Patients with GI manifestations have less severe COVID-19 disease and lower mortality rates.
«Non querades seguir esta carrera que es (de) ufana et llena de vanidat»
Authors: Zieliński Andrzej
Published: January 2022

El objeto de este estudio es profundizar en el origen y en la trayectoria discursiva del valor encuadrado en la modalidad deóntica que refleja querer + infinitivo. Aunque se documente por primera vez en textos del siglo XIII, su empleo tardío –en comparación con otros significados modales y temporales que adquirió– parece beber de fuentes latinas en las que se empleaba NOLI/NOLITE con sentido moralizante. Así pues, con la ayuda que proporciona la búsqueda en el CORDE, intentaremos dilucidar (i) cuál es su camino evolutivo y (ii) qué contextos discursivos propician el cambio semántico motivado por la interferencia del modelo latino. La hipótesis que intentaremos demostrar es que la entrada del nuevo valor deóntico, emanado de la construcción medieval querer + infinitivo se debe al mecanismo del calco semántico en los autores latinizantes. Por consiguiente, cabe suponer que la gramaticalización por contacto inducido de la construcción non quieras/non querades + infinitivo opera sobre la idea originaria que emana de la construcción querer + infinitivo ‘intención’, en la que la fuerte disposición del sujeto agentivo a ejecutar la actividad dinámica acapara, en ojos del emisor, el contenido performativo, de modo que decide intervenir apelando a la voluntad del sujeto agentivo para que no realice la acción que se había propuesto.
Mesure de la vulnérabilité des milieux urbains au Cameroun face au changement climatique
Authors: Yonzoua C.C. Fandjio , Nana U.J.M. Pettang , Manjiaa M.B. , Pettanga C.
Published: January 2022

Les différentes catastrophes survenues en milieu urbain au Cameroun récemment, mettent en exergue les désormais dangers permanents qui pèsent sur les habitants. On note une augmentation des extrêmes :  de hautes températures, des perturbations des régimes pluvieux et la récurrence des vents violents. Certains de ces effets sont amplifiés par la géographie contraignante de plusieurs villes et par l’influence anthropique sur l’environnement. En effet, d’une part les sites de plusieurs villes camerounaises ont soit des reliefs accidentés qui favorisent l’érosion des terrains, soit des configurations planes qui limitent l’évacuation gravitaire de l’eau de ruissellement. D’autre part, la croissance urbaine rapide et la prolifération des bidonvilles qui couvrent près de 65 à 70% de la superficie urbaine, usent plus rapidement les ouvrages et infrastructures d’assainissement urbaines lorsqu’ils existent dus à l’imperméabilisation accélérée et continue du sol urbain ainsi qu’à la mauvaise gestion des déchets. L’urgence de trouver des solutions durables à ce phénomène est désormais sans équivoque. Elle nécessite un encadrement normatif inclusif plus performant que celui actuellement en vigueur, qui amène le pays vers la résilience.

The disasters that’ve occurred recently in urban areas in Cameroon, highlight the permanent dangers weighing on the inhabitants. There is an increase in extremes climate parameters: high temperatures, rainfall disturbances and the recurrence of gales. Some of these effects are amplified by both the constraining relief of several cities and human influence on the environment. In fact, on the one hand, the sites of several Cameroonian cities either have rugged reliefs that promote land erosion, or flat configurations that limit the gravity discharge of runoff water. On the other hand, the rapid urban growth and the proliferation of slums which cover nearly 65 to 70% of the urban area, wear out more quickly the works and urban sanitation infrastructures when they exist due to the accelerated and continuous waterproofing soil in addition to the poor waste management. The urgency to find lasting solutions to this phenomenon is now unequivocal. It requires an inclusive normative framework that is more effective than that currently in force, which brings the country towards resilience.
Peaceful End of Life Theory: A Critical Analysis of Its Use to Improve Nursing Practice
Authors: Ngabonziza Schadrack , Murekatete Marie Chantal , Nyiringango Gerard , Marie Grace Musabwasoni Sandra
Published: January 2022

BackgroundProvision of empathetic palliative care in agreement with patient’s favorites is an indispensable attitude of healthcare providers. A Peaceful End of Life Theory was designed by Rulandand Moore (1998),to provide theoretical framework for nurses who care for patients at end stage of their life.MethodsChinn and Kramer theory analysis guideline was used to analyse this theory to suggest its improvement.ResultsFive major concepts and sub-concepts are identified.This theory informs the nursing profession on the relieving interventions at the end of life. It provides a guidance to supportively manage terminally ill patients in collaboration with their families.ConclusionThis theory is important to guide nursing practice,research, and education. However, there is a lack of an instrument to measure the desired outcomes, some subconcepts do not cleary specify the nursing interventions, and it lacks the spiritual comfort to the terminally ill patients who believe in eternal life.Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2021;4(3):412-417
A Narrative Review of Contemporary Global Perspectives into Epidemiology, Treatment, and Prognosis of Vertebrobasilar Strokes
Authors: Msigwa Samwel
Published: January 2022

Blood flow interruptions to the posterior cerebral circulation hallmark vertebrobasilar strokes (VBS), leading to mortality and significant disabilities, yet optimal therapy prevails unpublished. Recent epidemiological evidence indicates that VBS account for nearly 1/5 of all ischemic strokes globally, with acute basilar artery occlusion (BAO) contributing significant disabilities in nearly 1/3 of the victims. The prevalence of VBS in Africa is close to 5%, majorly in large intracranial vessels. Etiologically, Stenosis accounts for 20% of all VBS, while aneurysms face up to a 3% rupture rate. Furthermore, intravenous alteplase is the gold standard medical therapy for the cases presenting within 3 to 4.5 hours post-baseline regarding management options. Nevertheless, there is no consensus for BAO beyond 4.5 hours post-onset. Stent retrievers are the first-line endovascular reperfusion therapy device proposed. However, an 18% risk of in-stent restenosis is a significant drawback. Comprehensive prognostic factors are addressed in this review. However, prospective, multicenter, controlled studies are needed to clarify the time window dilemmas facing posterior circulation strokes. This narrative review explores recent VBS epidemiology, management advances, and prognosis.Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2021;4(3):418-429
Analysis of Clinical Experience Using Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory: Postgraduate Medical Surgical Nursing Track Students in Selected Sub-Specialties at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Rwanda
Authors: Bagweneza Vedaste , Anita Collins , Nsanzamahoro Isaac , Mukanoheli Vestine , Bahaya Florian , Niyitegeka Perpetue , Kabanyana Pauline , Mwiseneza Marie Josee , Gaterega Tony , Kura Agnes , Twahirwa Claude , Munezero Marie
Published: January 2022

BackgroundClinical experiences provide an opportunity for nursing students to integrate theoretical knowledge into practice, and analyze their learning using a theoretical model. Students do not take this opportunity unless it is intentionally included by the facilitators. These observations from the second cohort of medical surgical nursing students with their facilitators, regarding their clinical training period in selected sub-specialties at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK) aimed at developing students’ analytical and observational skills while developing clinical skills.MethodsThe study involved nine medical surgical nursing students who were in different subspecialties at CHUK from 7th January up to the 20th February, 2019. Informed observational approach and concomitant reporting were used to validate their learning and gain clinical experience. The students used Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory to analyze their experience, with the focus on innovative skills.ResultsAll medical surgical nursing students reported that they improved their knowledge and skills during clinical practice, while broadening their outlook.ConclusionKolb’s Experiential Learning Theory is useful in validating and bridging theoretical learning to clinical practice.Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2021;4(3):430-436
Knowledge and Skills on Triage among Nurses Working in Emergency Departments in Referral Hospitals in Rwanda
Authors: Twagirayezu Innocent , Busisiwe Bhengu , Umutoni Cishahayo Emelyne
Published: January 2022

BackgroundUnpredictable numbers of patients attending emergency departments highlight the need for Triage. Triage which is the prioritization of patient care based on severity of illness or injury, prognosis, and availability of resources is effective when clinicians are knowledgeable and skilled to perform it.ObjectiveTo assess knowledge and skills on triage among nurses working in emergency departments of Rwandan referral hospitals.MethodsCross-sectional analytical design was adopted. ninety-six (96) nurses working in emergency departments were selected using proportionate stratified sampling method. Each hospital was considered as a stratum. A self-administered questionnaire and observation checklist were use as instruments. Inferential and descriptive statistics were used in analysis.ResultsThe majority of participants (63.6%) demonstrated low level of triage knowledge and almost a half (47.9%) of participants had low level of triage skills. Nurses experience in emergency department, level of education and triage training were not found to significantly influence triage knowledge and skills positively (P>0.05).ConclusionDeficit in triage knowledge and skills were revealed among nurses working in emergency departments in Rwanda. Accredited continuous educational training on triage should be regularly provided to enhance knowledge and skills of emergency department nurses on Triage.Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2021;4(3):398-405
LncRNA SNHG1 protects the cardiac muscle cells from hypoxia/ re-oxygenation injury in vitro by targeting microRNA-21-5p and miR-30a-5p
Authors: Liu Youbin , Zang Tingting , Fan Ying , Li Jinglong , Chen Meng , Chen Anyong , Yang Dahao , Guan Xue , Cao Yong
Published: January 2022

Purpose: Cardiovascular diseases are responsible for numerous deaths globally. Long noncoding RNA SNHG1 has presented its protective role in cardiomyocytes previously. Herein, we examined the underlying molecular mechanisms of SNHG1 in cardiac muscle cells from hypoxia and re-oxygenation (H/R) in vitro.Methods: RT-qPCR measured expression of SNHG1, miR-21-5p and miR-30a-5p in rat cardiac muscle cell line HL-1 before and after H/R treatment and cell transfection, which was applied to regulate expression of SNHG1, miR-21-5p and miR-30a-5p for further use. The flow cytometry method was used to compare changes in cellular apoptosis, and cell viability was measured by CCK-8 method.Bioinformatics predicted the bindings ofSNHG1 and miR-21-5p / miR-30a-5p while the luciferase reporter assays further verified this.Results: The outcomes revealedthat SNHG1 was downregulated and meanwhile miR-21-5p / miR-30a5p was elevated that enhanced apoptosis and reduced cell viability in HL-1 cells. However, overexpressed SNHG1 inhibited cell apoptosis and increased cell viability brought by H/R. In addition, SNHG1 targeted at miR-21-5p/ miR-30a-5p, which contributed to the inter-regulation in between. Furthermore, interactive experiments revealed that upregulation of miR-21-5p/ miR-30a-5p added to the cell apoptosis which was induced by H/R and partially counteracted by the upregulation of SNHG1.Conclusion: In this study we have demonstrated the protective role of SNHG1 in the moderation of H/R-induced HL-1 apoptosis and viability through suppression of miR-21-5p/miR-30a-5p. This offers new perspective into the molecular interpretation of cardiovascular diseases such as ischemic reperfusion injury.

Keywords: SNHG1; apoptosis; Hypoxia/Re-oxygenation injury;miR-21-5p; miR-30a-5p; Cardiovascular diseases
Ginkgolide K potentiates the protective effect of ketamine against intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury by modulating NF-κB/ERK/JNK signaling pathway
Authors: Zhu Weina , Zhao Zhili , Liu Xiongtao , Ni Xiumei , Lei Xiaoming , Li Xiaoying , Deng Rui , Zhao Liyan
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of ginkgolide K and ketamine treatments, alone and in combination, on intestinal  ischemia/reperfusion injury (I/R)-induced injury in rats, as well as the mechanism involved.

Methods: Rats were treated with ginkgolide K (GK, 15 mg/kg i.v) and ketamine (KTM, 100 mg/kg i.p.), either alone or in combination 30 min before the induction of intestinal I/R. The effects of GK and KTM were determined by assessing the levels of cytokines in serum, and parameters of oxidative stress and ROS production in the intestinal tissues of I/R rats. Moreover, intestinal mRNA expressions of JNK, ERK, p38 and NF-kB were determined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results: GK and KTM treatments, alone and in combination, reduced cytokine levels in serum and oxidative stress parameters in intestinal tissues, when compared to I/R group of rats. Treatments with GK and KTM, alone and in combination, mitigated the altered mRNA expressions of JNK, ERK, p38 and NF-kB in intestinal tissues of I/R-injured rats.

Conclusion: These results reveal that GK potentiates the protective effect of KTM100 on I/R-induced intestinal injury in rats by regulating the NF-kB/ERK/JNK signaling pathway. Therefore, GK and KTM may find use in the management of I/R

Keywords: Ginkgolide K, Ketamine, Intestinal injury, Ischemia/Reperfusion, Inflammation
Bone morphogenetic protein 2/7 promotes repair of bone defect via induction of endochondral ossification
Authors: Wu Jianjun , Zheng Changkun , Liang Guiqing
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To study the influence of bone morphogenetic protein 2/7 (BMP2/7) on repair of bone defect, and the mechanism involved.Methods: Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) were randomly assigned to 2 groups: control and transfection groups. The cells were transfected with rBMP2/7 recombinant adenovirus. Cell growth and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were determined in both groups. Rabbit model of femoral bone defect was prepared using standard methods. Male New Zealand white rabbits were randomly assigned to 3 groups, each of which had 10 rabbits: control, gelatin and BMP2/7 groups. Histopathological and xray examinations, and three-point bending flexural test were used to compare the potential of gelatin and BMP2/7 to repair bone defects.Results: Transfection of BMSCs with rBMP2/7 recombinant adenovirus significantly enhanced their growth (p < 0.05). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level was also markedly and time-dependently higher in transfection group than in control group (p < 0.05). Rabbits with grade 4 bone healing or above were more in BMP2/7-treated category than in control and gelatin groups. New bone hyperplasia with typical lamellar bone structure, irregular medullary cavity, as well as transition from osteoblast to osteocyte were observed in BMP2/7 group. Moreover, maximum flexural strength and repair were significantly higher in BMP2/7-transfected group than in control.Conclusion: These findings indicate that BMP2/7 promotes the repair of bone defect via induction of endochondral ossification in rabbits. Thus, this protein may be useful for the repair of bone defects in humans.

Keywords: Alkaline phosphatase, Bone lesions, BMP2/7, Endochondral ossification
Effect of dexamethasone on levels of inflammatory factors and EGF mRNA in rabbits suffering from oral ulcers
Authors: Wu Weiliang , Ruan Jianyong , Li Daxu , Tao Hong , Deng Chunni , Wang Rui , Cheng Wei , Zhang Zhe , Ren Le
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the therapeutic effect of dexamethasone on rabbits suffering from oral ulcers, and the underlying mechanism(s) of action.

Methods: A rabbit model of oral ulcer was established by applying 40 % glacial acetic acid solution to the oral buccal membranes of the animals. Three groups of rabbits were used. Changes in area of the oral ulcer were recorded after dexamethasone administration. Levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF) were assayed using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR), while MDA levels and expression levels of IL- 6, IL-8 and TNF-α were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Local histopathological changes were examined histologically with the aid of hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) staining.

Results: There were reductions in ulcer areas in group C on the 2nd, 4th and 7th days of dexamethasone administration, when compared with group B (p < 0.05). The EGF levels in the buccal mucosa of rabbits in groups B and C were significantly higher than those in group A (p < 0.05), while the highest EGF level was in group C (p < 0.05). The levels of MDA, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α significantly increased in groups B and C (p < 0.05). Results from H & E staining showed lower levels of inflammatory cells in group C than in group B, with visible proliferation of fibroblast cells and epithelial cells in group C after dexamethasone administration.

Conclusion: Dexamethasone accelerates healing of oral ulcer by regulating EGF levels. This finding provides a new approach to the treatment of oral ulcers.
Azaindole inhibits liver cancer cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo by targeting the expression of kinesin family member C1
Authors: You Zhen , Li Bei , Gao Jun , Lu Jiong , Xu Ruihua
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of azaindole on proliferation of liver cancer cells, as well as the underlying mechanism.

Methods: Colony forming and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-biphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays were used to determine the effect of azaindole on cell proliferation. A tumor model was established through subcutaneous administration of HEPG2 cells to rats. Thereafter, in vivo tumor development was measured using Vernier caliper.

Results: The proliferation potential of HEPG2 and SNU-398 cells was markedly and dose-dependently suppressed by treatment with azaindole at doses of 2, 4, 8, 16 and 20 μM (p < 0.05). The expression levels of Ki67 and PCNA levels were significantly down-regulated in HEPG2 and SNU-398 cells on treatment with 20 μM azaindole. Moreover, azaindole significantly suppressed mRNA and protein expressions of KIFC1 in HEPG2 and SNU-398 cells (p < 0.05). Tumor volume in azaindole-treated rats on day 21 was greatly reduced, while KIFC1 expression in azaindole-treated rat tumor tissue was significantly down-regulated, when compared to the model group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Azaindole targets proliferation of liver cancer cells in vitro and inhibits tumor growth in vivo through a mechanism involving down-regulation of KIFCI expression. Thus, azaindole is a potential therapeutic candidate for liver cancer.
Determination of the heavy metal contents of frequently used herbal products in Pakistan
Authors: Quds Tehseen , Ahmed Maryam , Shakeel Sadia , Jalbani Nusrat , Mazhar Farah , Azhar Iqbal
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To determine the heavy metal content of selected local and international herbal medicines sold for the treatment of various diseases in Pakistan.

Methods: The different dosage forms of herbal medicines assessed were crude forms of syrups, gel, capsule, powder and tonic. Wet digestion method was used to prepare the herbal samples using nitric acid, and then analyzed for arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg), using MHS-15 mercury/hydride system and flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS).

Results: The investigated results displayed the Arsenic level (0.00 ppm to 0.580 ppm); Cadmium (0.001 ppm to 0.006 ppm); Lead (0.00 ppm to 1.078 ppm) and Mercury (0.001 ppm to 0.012 ppm). All results were found below the permissible limit of acceptability intake of the World Health Organization (WHO) and American Herbal Products Association (AHPA). The pH of the samples were in the range of 1.52 to 6.99.

Conclusion: The findings reveal that the investigated herbal products available in Pakistan are safe with reference to heavy metals, and considered non-toxic for human consumption.
Effect of general and sub-arachnoid anesthesia on the incidence of postoperative delirium and cognitive impairments in elderly Chinese patients
Authors: Ren Wei-Xia , Wu Ran-Ran
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of general and subarachnoid (spinal) anesthesia on the incidence of postoperative delirium and cognitive impairments in elderly Chinese patients.

Methods: Elderly Chinese patients (n = 281) aged 65 – 79 years (mean age = 74.12 ± 4.15 years) who underwent proximal femoral fracture surgery were recruited over a 1-year period for this study. The patients were evaluated using neuropsychological assessment battery (NAB) 24 h before surgery, and on the first day 1 month after surgery. Data on activity of daily living (ADL) (in this case toileting at the time of discharge) were recorded and analyzed.

Results: There was no significant difference in the number of patients that developed postoperative delirium between the two anesthesia groups (p > 0.05). Although the trail making test (TMT) scores (parts A and B) were increased on the first day 1 month after surgery, there were no significant differences in NAB results between the two groups (p > 0.05). Patients who received subarachnoid (spinal) anesthesia had significantly higher dependency for toileting at the time of discharge than those who received general anesthesia (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These results show that general and subarachnoid (spinal) anesthesia do not cause postoperative delirium and cognitive dysfunction in elderly Chinese patients who underwent proximal femoral fracture surgery.
Protective effect of syringaresinol on rats with diabetic nephropathy via regulation of Nrf2/HO-1 and TGF- β1/Smads pathways
Authors: Ji Lei , Zhong Xue , Xia Xingxing , Yu Wei , Qin Yuping
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the protective role of syringaresinol in a rat model of diabetic nephropathy (DN).

Methods: Streptozotocin was injected intraperitoneally into rats to establish the diabetic model. Streptozotocin-induced rats were orally administered syringaresinol, and pathological changes in kidneys were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine kidney injury indicators, 24-h urine proteins, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum creatinine (SCR). Blood glucose was measured using a blood glucose meter, while levels of malonaldehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) in kidney were also measured using ELISA.

Results: Pathological changes in the kidneys were observed in rats post-streptozotocin treatment. Administration of syringaresinol reduced the lesion degree, with improved pathological morphology in kidney. Syringaresinol administration significantly attenuated streptozotocin-increased levels of BUN, SCR, 24-h urine protein, and blood glucose (p < 0.01). Streptozotocin-induced oxidative stress, shown by enhanced MDA level and reduced levels of SOD, CAT, and GSH-PX, was reversed in rat kidneys following syringaresinol administration. However, the expression levels of nuclear factor erythropoietin- 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) proteins decreased, while transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and signal transducer and transcriptional modulator (Smad) 2/3/7 proteins increased in rats post-streptozotocin treatment. Syringaresinol administration reversed the effects of streptozotocin on protein expression of Nrf2, HO-1, TGF-β1, and Smad 2/3/7.

Conclusion: Syringaresinol exerted a protective effect against DN through activation of Nrf2 and inactivation of TGF-β1/Smad pathways. Thus, the compound can potentially be developed for management of diabetic nephropathy.
Sarcoidosis – a multisystem disease
Authors: Franzen Daniel P. , Brutsche Martin , Nilsson Jakob , Böni Christian , Daccord Cécile , Distler Oliver , Elsener Dieter , Funke-Chambour Manuela , Gruner Christiane , Hayward-Könnecke Helen , Hostettler Katrin E. , Kündig Thomas , Ribi Camillo , Seebach Jörg D. , Seeger Harald , Vrugt Bart , Kolios Antonios G. A.
Published: January 2022

Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease, characterised by granuloma formation upon an unknown trigger in genetically predisposed individuals. The inflammation is characterised by an activation of both the innate immune system, with macrophages differentiating into epitheloid cells and dendritic cells, and the adaptive immune system, particularly T helper (Th) 1 and Th17 cells. Since all organs can be affected to varying extents, clinical presentation is often diverse. Most commonly, the lungs, lymph nodes, skin and eyes are involved, whereas cardiac, renal and neurological manifestations are less common but associated with higher morbidity. Depending on the clinical symptoms, a detailed evaluation including thorough clinical examination, imaging and laboratory tests should explore all possible organ involvements. In some patients, fatigue manifests as a para-sarcoidosis symptom impacting quality of life, even if sarcoidosis is in remission.
Some acute syndromic presentations, such as Löfgren’s syndrome, have a good prognosis and are commonly self-limiting. If possible, a topical treatment, for example for cutaneous sarcoidosis or bronchial involvement, should be applied. Treatment of severe cases with persisting disease activity necessitates long-term immunosuppressive drugs, with glucocorticoids as the first-line option. Steroid-sparing and second-line drugs include methotrexate, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil and immunomodulators such hydroxychloroquine, with the latter being first-line therapy in cutaneous sarcoidosis. Tumour necrosis factor-alpha  inhibitors (particularly adalimumab and infliximab) are used as third-line agents but are administered earlier in cases of persistent disease activity, severe organ-involvement or intolerance to conventional drugs. Treatment decisions should be based on a multidisciplinary approach, depending on organ involvement and treatment tolerability. Para-sarcoidosis manifestations, particularly fatigue, should also be carefully addressed, where the patient could also be enrolled in multidimensional rehabilitation programmes.
With various organ involvement and different phenotypes, larger studies including real-world data from registries are necessary to evaluate different sarcoidosis endotypes and preferential treatment pathways.
I Brygada Legionów Polskich w bitwie pod Kostiuchnówką w lipcu 1916 r.
Authors: Dudek Tomasz
Published: January 2022

W prezentowanym artykule autor starał się przedstawić walki I Brygady Legionów podczas bitwy pod Kostiuchnówką. Był to najkrwawszy bój stoczony przez polskich legionistów podczas I wojny światowej. Główny ciężar walki wzięła na siebie brygada Piłsudskiego, na którą dnia 4 lipca 1916 r. ruszyło główne uderzenie rosyjskie. Poszczególne pułki toczyły zaciekłe walki w obronie każdej pozycji. Do najtrudniejszych epizodów należała obrona Reduty Piłsudskiego przez żołnierzy 7 Pułku Piechoty, czy też zajadłe walki 5 Pułku Piechoty nad Garbachem i w rejonie Polskiego Lasku. Chociaż w efekcie morderczych walk I Brygada oraz pozostałe jednostki legionowe zostały zmuszone do wycofania się za Stochód, to jednak sama bitwa zakończyła się taktycznym zwycięstwem strony polskiej. Legioniści zadali armii rosyjskiej ogromne straty, nie dopuszczając przy tym do przerwania frontu i dając czas dowództwu C.K. armii na ściągnięcie posiłków. Krew przelana przez legionowego żołnierza w bitwie pod Kostiuchnówką nie poszła na marne. Na europejskich salonach coraz częściej zaczęto mówić o konieczności utworzenia niepodległego państwa polskiego.

The I Brigade of the Polish Legions in the Battle of Kostiuchnówka in July 1916

In the article, the author tries to present the fight of the I Brigade of the Polish Legions during the Battle of Kostiuchnówka. This was the bloodiest battle entered into by the Polish legionnaires during World War I. The main burden of the fighting was taken upon itself by Piłsudski’s brigade, which, on 4 July 1916, was attacked by the Russian forces. Particular corps were engaged in fierce fighting in the defence of specific positions. The most difficult episodes included the defence of the Piłsudski Redoubt by soldiers of the 7th Infantry Division, as well as the fierce fighting of the 5th Infantry Division by the River Garbach and in the Polish Forest. Although the result of the murderous fighting of the I Brigade and other units of the legions was their forced retreat across the River Stochód, the Battle ended in a tactical victory for the Polish forces. The legionnaires inflicted huge losses on the Russian army, not allowing them to break through the front-line and buying time for the leadership of the C.K. Army to call up reinforcements. The blood lost by the soldiers in the Battle of Kostiuchnówka was not in vain. Throughout Europe, the necessity to create an independent Polish state was discussed more frequently.
Z archiwum rodzinnego polonistki profesor Mieczysławy Mitery-Dobrowolskiej – archiwalia brata, legionisty Stanisława Mitery
Authors: Majkowska Rita
Published: January 2022

(archiwum osobiste) Mieczysławy Mitery-Dobrowolskiej (1900–1992), profesor polonistyki Uniwersytetu Śląskiego, przechowywana w zasobie Archiwum Nauki PAN i PAU w Krakowie, jest równocześnie archiwum rodzinnym Miterów. Ten bogaty zespół archiwalny, tylko częściowo uporządkowany, stanowi otwarte pole dla rozważań metodycznych. Zostały one przedstawione w oparciu o analizę materiałów archiwalnych brata Mieczysławy, Stanisława Mitery (1890–1915), polonisty, harcerza, legionisty. Ta niewielka część zespołu archiwalnego (0,40 mb) liczącego około 10 mb w odniesieniu do pozostałej dokumentacji wskazuje na liczne pola badawcze. Materiały pozostałych członków rodziZ archiwum rodzinnego polonistki profesor Mieczysławy Mitery-Dobrowolskiej... 189 ny Pani Profesor – rodziców Adolfa i Walerii oraz ich dzieci Jadwigi (1893–1985), Julii (1895–1971), Kazimierza (1897–1936), Zygmunta (1903–1940), Tadeusza (1905–1985), zasłużonych dla szkolnictwa, nauki i kultury, są jak gdyby spuściznami w spuściźnie. Autorka podejmuje próbę uzasadnienia podejmowanych rozwiązań metodycznych, podkreślając wartość wskazówek metodycznych zawartych w Wytycznych opracowania spuścizn po uczonych (Warszawa 1990) oraz proponowanego w nich schematu inwentarza. Podkreśla, że tak jak każdy człowiek, wytworzony przez niego materiał archiwalny jest niepowtarzalny.

From the family archives of Professor Mieczysława Mitera-Dobrowolska – archival materials of her brother, the legionnaire Stanisław Mitera

The legacy (personal archive) of Mieczysława Mitera-Dobrowolska (1900–1992), professor of Polish Studies at the University of Silesia, stored in the Archive of Science PAN & PAU in Krakow, is simultaneously the archive of the Mitera family. This rich archival collection, which is only partially ordered, represents an open area for methodical studies. These are presented based on analysis of the archival materials of Mieczysława’s brother, Stanisław Mitera (1890–1915) a Polish Studies specialist, scout and legionnaire. This small part (0.40 metres long) of an archival collection totalling around 10 metres in length indicates the presence of numerous research fields with reference to the remaining documentation. The materials of other members of the Professor’s family – her parents Adolf and Waleria as well as their children, Jadwiga (1893–1985), Julia (1895–1971), Kazimierz (1897–1936), Zygmunt (1903–1940), and Tadeusz (1905–1985), distinguished in education, science and culture, are like legacies within a legacy. The author attempts to explain the reasons behind the conducted methodical studies, emphasising the values of methodical tips contained in Wytyczne opracowania spuścizn po uczonych (A Scholar’s Guidelines for Studying Legacies) (Warsaw 1990) as well as the plan for an inventory proposed in it. The author emphasises that, just like each person, each archival material created by a person is unique.
Dziedzictwo archeologiczne w kontekście wyzwań zrównoważonego rozwoju
Authors: Pawleta Michał
Published: January 2022

Archaeological Heritage in the Context of Sustainable Development

The concept of sustainable development is widely declared and used in contemporary scientific dis­course. Sustainability also refers to cultural and archaeological heritage. What is an important ele­ment of the contemporary conservation doctrine is a departure from the idea of protection of ar­chaeological heritage in favour of the rational management of such heritage, in accordance with the sustainable development rationale. It follows from the premise that, on the one hand, herit­age is a subject of protection, but, on the other hand, it constitutes potential that should be adapted to new conditions and used for cultural, social, and economic development. With the above-men­tioned concept as a starting point, the paper is aimed at analysing the role that archaeological her­itage resources can play in the context of sustainable development. As an example of good practic­es implementing the idea of sustainable development based on archaeological resources, I take and discuss archaeological tourism, because it aims to promote public interest in archaeology and the protection of archaeological sites.
Wielkopolskie organizacje kobiece u schyłku XIX w. a uczestnictwo Polek w przestrzeni społecznej II Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej
Authors: Kanafocka Patrycja
Published: January 2022

W zakresie aktywności kobiet w okresie II Rzeczypospolitej zaszły zmiany. Pierwszą było osiągnięcie poczucia bezpieczeństwa, które spowodowało, że tajne organizacje samokształceniowe, czytelnie, biblioteki wydawały się zbędne, choćby dlatego, że wysiłek wykształcenia w duchu polskim spoczywający w czasach zaboru pruskiego głównie na kobietach, został przejęty przez państwo. Działalność charytatywna natomiast uległa wzbogaceniu o nowe inicjatywy, rozkwitało życie towarzyskie, w wolnym państwie prowadzone swobodnie. Powstawały stowarzyszenia zawodowe przy zakładach pracy i przedsiębiorstwach, w każdym zaangażowane były także kobiety. Przyjmowano je również do towarzystw zakładanych przez mężczyzn. Niewątpliwie największe osiągnięcie, a więc prawa wyborcze, było także wyzwaniem, uniemożliwiało cichą pracę w swoim gronie, do której kobiety zdążyły się przyzwyczaić i wymagało niekiedy radykalnego forsowania argumentów, wymuszało poszerzenie horyzontów. Udział kobiet w przestrzeni społecznej II Rzeczypospolitej bez pracy rozpoczętej w XIX wieku byłby niemożliwy. Uświadomienie bowiem, również społeczne czy polityczne, jest procesem, w którym długa droga to nie tylko czas rozwoju kobiety – świadomej obywatelki, lecz i mężczyzny, gotowego, aby dzielić przestrzeń społeczną z kobietą.

Women’s organizations at the end of the 19th century and the participation of Polish women in the social life of the Second Polish Republic

When it comes to the activity of women during the times of the Second Republic, there were a lot of changes. Firstly, a sense of security was gained, which meant that secret self-education, reading rooms and libraries were redundant, since the effort of educating in the Polish spirit during Prussian occupation, mostly made by women, was overtaken by the state. Charitable activity was enriched with new initiatives, and social life flourished, because it could be led freely in the free state. Professional associations at plants and companies emerged, in which women also participated. Women were also welcome in societies established by men. Undoubtedly, the biggest achievement, the right to vote, was also a challenge, as it made it impossible to work quietly in limited, female-only circles – an activity women had managed to get used to. This sometimes required radical argumentation, and forced one to stay open minded. Female participation in the public life of the Second Republic would have been impossible without the work that had began in the 19th century. Raising awareness, both social and political, is a process. Long way is required not only for a woman to become a conscious citizen, but also for a man to become ready to share the social space.
PENGARUH PEMBAGIAN DIVIDEN MELALUI MODEL BLACK-SCHOLES
Authors: Purwandari Diana
Published: January 2022

Stock trading has a risk that can be said to be quite large due to fluctuations in stock prices. In stock trading, one alternative to reduce the amount of risk is options. The focus of this research is on European options which are financial contracts by giving the holder the right, not the obligation, to sell or buy the principal asset from the writer when it expires at a predetermined price. The Black-Scholes model is an option pricing model commonly used in the financial sector. This study aims to determine the effect of dividend distribution through the Black-Scholes model on stock prices. The effect of dividend distribution through the Black-Scholes model on stock prices results in the stock price immediately after the dividend distribution being lower than the stock price shortly before the dividend distribution
ANALISIS K-MEANS CLUSTER PADA KABUPATEN/KOTA DI PROVINSI BANTEN BERDASARKAN INDIKATOR INDEKS PEMBANGUNAN MANUSIA
Authors: Puspita Rindang Ndaru
Published: January 2022

The Human Development Index (HDI) is one of the parameters of success in the development of the quality of human life, besides that at the regional level, the HDI is an indicator of the primary performance measurement and allocation of Regional Incentive Funds in promoting the welfare of the people in the area. In 2020 the Banten Province Human Development Index 72.45 only rose 0.01% compared to 2019, lower than the growth in 2019, which reached 0.68% and is still stuck in the high category (70≤HDI≤80), this indicates the progress of human development in Banten experienced a slowdown, In addition, when compared to the growth of the HDI-forming indicators in 2019, all components that make up the HDI experienced a slowdown in growth except for RLS which experienced growth acceleration of 0.33% from 1.39% in 2019 to 1.72% in 2020. So it is necessary to do a deeper analysis to determine the characteristics of the indicators that make up the HDI in the City as a contributor to the HDI value of the Banten Province so that efforts can be made to increase human development as evidence of improving the welfare of the people in the Banten Province. The K-Means Cluster method is used to group cities in Banten Province based on similar characteristics in terms of the HDI compiler indicators, including Life Expectancy at Birth, Expected Years of Schooling, and Average Length of School in, and Expenditure per Capita. Based on the results of the analysis obtained three clusters consisting of cities with similar characteristics in each cluster. Cluster 1 is a City with a low HDI indicator consisting of Pandeglang, Lebak, Serang. Cluster 2 is a City with a medium HDI indicator consisting of Tangerang, Cilegon, Serang City. Cluster 3 has a high HDI indicator consisting of Tangerang City and South Tangerang City. After obtaining City information based on the characteristics of each cluster, then the Banten Provincial government can provide direction and policies to each City in Clusters 1 and 2 to be able to develop activity programs with more attention to the HDI compiler indicators so that the Human Development Index in the City can increase