bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Study and Radical Scavenging Activity of Three Leafy Vegetables Grown in Zitenga Region of Burkina Faso
Authors: Ouédraogo Benjamin , Tiendrébéogo Alphonsine , Yoda Jules , Kini Felix
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study is to analyze the phytochemical composition and radical scavenging activity of three leafy vegetables from Burkina Faso: Cleome gynandra, Hibiscus sabdariffa and Corchorus olitorius. Samples of these plants were collected in Zitenga region, dried, powdered and extracted by decoction using water and a hydroethanolic solvent. Phytochemical screening was carried out by thin layer chromatography. Bioactive compounds, notably flavonoids and phenolic compounds, were measured respectively by the aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) method and the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The radical scavenging activity of the extracts was also investigated using the DPPH method. Phytochemical analyzes revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins and saponosides in the three species studied. The highest total phenolic and total flavonoid contents were obtained respectively with the hydroethanolic extract of Cleome gynandra (223.54 ± 0.18 mg TEA/g DM) and the aqueous extract of Cleome gynandra (69.09 ± 0.26 mg QE/g DM). The best antioxidant activity was obtained with the hydroethanolic extract of Corchorus olitorius (IC50: 31.93 ± 1.95 µg /mL). The results showed that the extracts of Cleome gynandra, Hibiscus sabdariffa and Corchorus olitorius all exhibited radical scavenging activity, indicating their potential to reduce oxidative stress. These results suggest that Cleome gynandra, Hibiscus sabdariffa and Corchorus olitorius are rich sources of health-promoting phytochemicals. These food plants from Burkina Faso could therefore be transformed into nutraceuticals to promote health and prevent diseases linked to oxidative stress.
Investigation and Analysis of Nitrite Levels in Pickled Vegetables and Meat Products Sold in Futian District Shenzhen
Authors: Zeng Sheng , Li Ke , Wen Quan , Tang Chen
Published: September 2024

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the current nitrite levels in pickled vegetables and meat products sold in Futian District, Shenzhen, to provide data for food safety risk assessment and regulatory measures. Nitrites, known to form in pickled foods due to degradation and pickling processes, have raised public health concerns due to their potential health risks, including the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines. Understanding the nitrite levels in these products is crucial for ensuring consumer safety..Methods: Random sampling of pickled vegetables and meat products was conducted in local markets and supermarkets in the district. Nitrite levels were measured using the hydrochloric acid naphthylethylenediamine method according to GB/T 5009.33—2016. The results were evaluated based on GB2760-2014 "National Food Safety Standard for Food Additive Use" and GB2762—2017 "National Food Safety Standard for Contaminant Limits in Food."Results: From 2022 to 2023, a total of 88 samples were collected. The detection rates were 85.29% for pickled vegetables and 100% for meat products. No samples exceeded the maximum allowable limits. Nitrite levels in meat products were generally higher than in vegetables, and samples from local markets had higher nitrite levels than those from supermarkets.Conclusion: The nitrite levels in pickled vegetables and meat products sold in Futian District are generally low, with no samples exceeding safety standards. However, the high detection rate, especially in unpackaged products, indicates potential exposure risks. Consumers are advised to limit the consumption of high-nitrite pickled foods.
Urban Housing Practices of Policy Implementation in Bamenda, Cameroon
Authors: Maluh Nformi
Published: September 2024

Housing is a fundamental human need, but making sure that every person has access togood quality housing is a worldwide challenge. Public policy impact on the quest for housing adequacy and affordability is visible in Bamenda as Cameroon’s fourth city. This paper investigates the effectiveness of institutional policy and structures put in place to determine the on-going processes of housing management in Bamenda. To explore this nexus, explanatory design was used involving direct interviews of policy officials who operate within the cross sectorial housing institutions in Bamenda. The practice perceptions were captured through a 372 questionnaires survey on households in addition to field observations. Results portray that varied regulatory instruments have been enacted to mitigate housing and urban challenges as the 2004 Town Planning Law and its subsequent decrees signed in 2008, the 1974 Land Ordinance and the 1976 Decree to lay down conditions for obtaining land certificates, the 1996 Environmental Management Law, 1998 Water Code, 2004 Laws of Decentralisation and Deconcentration. Results also show that despite the number of housing institutions and policies put in place, housing practices in Bamenda continue to resist regulatory texts, land certificates and building permits fostering the illegal occupation of flood plains and risky slopes. This paper opts for an effective policy environment that enforces housing laws and regulations, while allowing sufficient flexibility to align to local conditionswithin Bamenda.
Impact of motivational feedback on levels of physical activity and quality of life by activity monitoring following knee arthroplasty surgery—protocol for a randomized controlled trial nested in a prospective cohort (Knee-Activity)
Authors: Skov Cecilie Dollerup , Lindberg-Larsen Martin , Wiil Uffe Kock , Varnum Claus , Schmal Hagen , Jensen Charlotte Myhre , Holsgaard-Larsen Anders
Published: October 2024

Background

Evidence on how to improve daily physical activity (PA) levels following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or medial uni-compartmental knee arthroplasty (mUKA) by motivational feedback is lacking. Moreover, it is unknown whether a focus on increased PA after discharge from the hospital improves rehabilitation, physical function, and quality of life. The aim of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) nested in a prospective cohort is (a) to investigate whether PA, physical function, and quality of life following knee replacement can be increased using an activity monitoring device including motivational feedback via a patient app in comparison with activity monitoring without feedback (care-as-usual), and (b) to investigate the potential predictive value of PA level prior to knee replacement for the length of stay, return to work, and quality of life.

Methods

The study is designed as a multicenter, parallel-group, superiority RCT with balanced randomization (1:1) and blinded outcome assessments. One hundred and fifty patients scheduled for knee replacement (TKA or mUKA) will be recruited through Odense University Hospital, Denmark, Vejle Hospital, Denmark and Herlev/Gentofte Sygehus, Denmark. Patients will be randomized to either 12 weeks of activity monitoring and motivational feedback via a patient app by gamification or 'care-as-usual,' including activity monitoring without motivational feedback. The primary outcome is the between-group change score from baseline to 12-week follow-up of cumulative daily accelerometer counts, which is a valid proxy for average objectively assessed daily PA.

Discussion

Improving PA through motivational feedback following knee replacement surgery might improve post-surgical function, health-related quality of life, and participation in everyday life.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT06005623. Registered on 2023–08-22.

Trial status

Recruiting.
Hypoxia-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the HIF-1α/NF-κB signaling pathway in human dental pulp fibroblasts
Authors: Wang Diya , Wang Minghao , Sun Shukai , Zhang Chongyang , Song Ya , Li Jianing , Song Bing , Lv Haipeng , Wang Shengchao , Jiang Wenkai
Published: September 2024

Background

Previous studies have reported the link between hypoxic conditions and NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pulpal inflammation in the progression of pulpitis. However, the underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the role of HIF-1α in the regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome pathway via NF-κB signaling under hypoxic conditions with or without LPS in human dental pulp fibroblasts (HDPFs) during the progression of pulpitis.

Methods

HIF-1α plasmids or siRNAs were used to upregulate or downregulate HIF-1α in HDPFs, respectively. The effect of hypoxia with or without LPS on the NF-κB signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome pathway was analyzed by immunofluorescence staining, qRT-PCR, western blotting and ELISA.

Results

The hypoxic conditions alone induced ASC oligomerization and NLRP3/CASP1 inflammasome pathway activation via NF-κB signaling in a time-dependent manner in HDPFs. The upregulation of HIF-1α further promoted hypoxia-induced ASC oligomerization and NLRP3/CASP1 inflammasome pathway activation via NF-κB signaling compared to the hypoxia-induced group. In comparison, downregulation of HIF-1α inhibited ASC oligomerization and NLRP3/CASP1 inflammasome pathway activation via NF-κB signaling compared to the hypoxia-induced group. Additionally, LPS plus hypoxia further promoted HIF-1α expression and NLRP3/ASC/CASP1 inflammasome pathway activation via NF-κB signaling compared to the hypoxia-induced group.

Conclusions

HIF-1α served as a positive regulator of NLRP3/ASC/CASP1 inflammasome pathway activation via NF-κB signaling in HDPFs in the sterile pulpal inflammation and caries-related pulpitis microenvironment. The finding of a novel functional HIF-1α-NF-κB-NLRP3 axis provides insight into the link between the hypoxic microenvironment and pulpal inflammation, thus supporting a promising therapeutic strategy for the control of pulpal inflammation.
The Status of Food and Nutrition Literacy and its determinants among Elementary School students in Egypt: community nursing-led design
Authors: Amin Shaimaa Mohamed , DREIDI Mutaz , Ghallab Eman , Morsy Mohamed Shadia Ramadan , Alrimawi Intima
Published: October 2024

Aim

To assess food and nutrition literacy status and its determinants among elementary school students in El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt.

Background

Developing strategies to enhance food and nutrition literacy necessitates a deeper understanding of the food and nutrition literacy situation among elementary school students and associated factors.

Design

A cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted.

Methods

A final sample of 400 primary school students (aged 6–12 years) at Itay El Barud public elementary schools in El-Beheira Governorate were administered (1) a socio-demographic characteristics and anthropometric measurements questionnaire developed by the researchers, and (2) the Food and Nutrition Literacy Scale. The derived data were analyzed using descriptive and non-parametric tests.

Results

The majority (61%) of students had low food and nutrition literacy scores. The results have shown that overall socio-demographic variables were significant in predicting understanding food and nutrition information, nutritional health knowledge, interactive functional and nutritional literacy, critical food and nutritional literacy, and food labeling.

Conclusion

The study reveals that elementary school students in Egypt have poor knowledge and skills in food and nutrition literacy, largely due to a lack of nutrition education and family awareness. Factors like residential location, income, and education level also contribute to this disparity.

Implications for the profession

To improve nutrition literacy among students, a nursing approach involving community stakeholders and school nurses is recommended. This includes integrating nutrition-related topics into the school curriculum, organizing workshops, and conducting age-appropriate health education sessions. Active engagement between community health and school nurses is crucial for raising awareness about healthy nutritional choices.

Impact

These findings hold an important impact on the education system and those designing curricula, emphasizing the need for significant incorporation of knowledge and skills related to food and nutrition within schools.

Reporting method

Compliance with the STROBE checklist for cross-sectional studies was maintained throughout the research.

Patient or public contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
The association between serum S100β levels and prognosis in acute stroke patients after intravenous thrombolysis: a multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Qu Yang , Jin Hang , Abuduxukuer Reziya , Qi Shuang , Si Xiang-Kun , Zhang Peng , Zhang Ke-Jia , Wang Si-Ji , Zheng Xiang-Yu , Zhang Yu , Gao Jian-Hua , Zhang Xian-Kun , Liu Xiao-Dong , Li Chun-Ying , Li Guang-Cai , Wang Junmin , Jin Huimin , He Ying , Jiang Ligang , Liu Liang , Jiang Yongfei , Teng Rui-Hong , Jia Yan , Zhang Bai-Jing , Chen Zhibo , Qi Yingbin , Liu Xiuping , Li Song , Sun Xin , Nguyen Thanh N. , Yang Yi , Guo Zhen-Ni ,   on behalf of the Biomarkers of Brain Injury Investigator Study Group, Wang Lijuan , Chen Yumei , Zheng Yang , Yuan Zhi-Mei , Ju Dongsheng , Ba Yun-Fei , Chen Jinhua , Gu Jiliang , Wang Anying , Zhao Li-Li , Dong Chen-Peng , Liu Li , Pei Zhong-Rui , Yu Shuang , Liu Xue , Jiang Chun-Li , He Ling , Zhang Sun-Juan
Published: October 2024

Background

S100β is a biomarker of astroglial damage, the level of which is significantly increased following brain injury. However, the characteristics of S100β and its association with prognosis in patients with acute ischemic stroke following intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) remain unclear.

Methods

Patients in this multicenter prospective cohort study were prospectively and consecutively recruited from 16 centers. Serum S100β levels were measured 24 h after IVT. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and hemorrhagic transformation (HT) were measured simultaneously. NIHSS at 7 days after stroke, final infarct volume, and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at 90 days were also collected. An mRS score ≥ 2 at 90 days was defined as an unfavorable outcome.

Results

A total of 1072 patients were included in the analysis. The highest S100β levels (> 0.20 ng/mL) correlated independently with HT and higher NIHSS at 24 h, higher NIHSS at 7 days, larger final infarct volume, and unfavorable outcome at 3 months. The patients were divided into two groups based on dominant and non-dominant stroke hemispheres. The highest S100β level was similarly associated with the infarct volume in patients with stroke in either hemisphere (dominant: β 36.853, 95% confidence interval (CI) 22.659–51.048, P < 0.001; non-dominant: β 23.645, 95% CI 10.774–36.516, P = 0.007). However, serum S100β levels at 24 h were more strongly associated with NIHSS scores at 24 h and 3-month unfavorable outcome in patients with dominant hemisphere stroke (NIHSS: β 3.470, 95% CI 2.392–4.548, P < 0.001; 3-month outcome: odds ratio (OR) 5.436, 95% CI 2.936–10.064, P < 0.001) than in those with non-dominant hemisphere stroke (NIHSS: β 0.326, 95% CI  − 0.735–1.387, P = 0.547; 3-month outcome: OR 0.882, 95% CI 0.538–1.445, P = 0.619). The association of S100β levels and HT was not significant in either stroke lateralization group.

Conclusions

Serum S100β levels 24 h after IVT were independently associated with HT, infarct volume, and prognosis in patients with IVT, which suggests the application value of serum S100β in judging the degree of disease and predicting prognosis.
Inflammatory proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease reduced by a GLP1 receptor agonist: a post hoc analysis of the EXSCEL randomized placebo controlled trial
Authors: Koychev Ivan , Reid Graham , Nguyen Maggie , Mentz Robert J. , Joyce Dan , Shah Svati H. , Holman Rury R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are a viable option for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) but the mechanisms of this potential disease modifying action are unclear. We investigated the effects of once-weekly exenatide (EQW) on AD associated proteomic clusters.

Methods

The Exenatide Study of Cardiovascular Event Lowering study compared the cardiovascular effects of EQW 2 mg with placebo in 13,752 people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. 4,979 proteins were measured (Somascan V0.4) on baseline and 1-year plasma samples of 3,973 participants. C-reactive protein (CRP), ficolin-2 (FCN2), plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1), soluble vascular cell adhesion protein 1 (sVCAM1) and 4 protein clusters were tested in multivariable mixed models.

Results

EQW affected FCN2 (Cohen’s d -0.019), PAI-1 (Cohen’s d -0.033), sVCAM-1 (Cohen’s d 0.035) and a cytokine-cytokine cluster (Cohen’s d 0.037) significantly compared with placebo. These effects were sustained in individuals over the age of 65 but not in those under 65.

Conclusions

EQW treatment was associated with significant change in inflammatory proteins associated with AD.

Trial Registration

EXSCEL is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01144338 on 10th of June 2010.
Evaluating the clinical efficacy of a long-read sequencing-based approach for carrier screening of spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Long Ju , Cui Di , Yu Chunhui , Meng Wanli
Published: September 2024

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the second most common fatal genetic disease in infancy. It is caused by deletion or intragenic pathogenic variants of the causative gene SMN1, which degenerates anterior horn motor neurons and leads to progressive myasthenia and muscle atrophy. Early treatment improves motor function and prognosis in patients with SMA, but drugs are expensive and do not cure the disease. Therefore, carrier screening seems to be the most effective way to prevent SMA birth defects. In this study, we genetically analyzed 1400 samples using multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and compared the consistency of the results. We randomly selected 44 samples with consistent MLPA and qPCR results for comprehensive SMA analysis (CASMA) using a long-read sequencing (LRS)-based approach. CASMA results showed 100% consistency, visually and intuitively explained the inconsistency between exons 7 and 8 copy numbers detected by MLPA in 13 samples. A total of 16 samples showed inconsistent MLPA and qPCR results for SMN1 exon 7. CASMA was performed on all samples and the results were consistent with those of resampling for MLPA and qPCR detection. CASMA also detected an additional intragenic variant c.-39A>G in a sample with two copies of SMN1 (RT02). Finally, we detected 23 SMA carriers, with an estimated carrier rate of 1/61 in this cohort. In addition, CASMA identified the “2 + 0” carrier status of SMN1 and SMN2 in a family by analyzing the genotypes of only three samples (parents and one sibling). CASMA has great advantages over MLPA and qPCR assays, and could become a powerful technical support for large-scale screening of SMA.
Exploratory study of antibody titers against SARS-CoV-2 using an indirect immunoperoxidase assay in COVID-19 patients and vaccinated volunteers
Authors: Katoh Shungo , Yasuda Ikkoh , Kitakawa Kazuhiro , Hamaguchi Sugihiro , Sando Eiichiro
Published: September 2024

Background

A number of antibody test kits for detecting prior SARS-CoV-2 infection and post-immunization status have been commercialized. Indirect immunoperoxidase assay (IIP) is a conventional method to test antibodies. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy and antibody titer profile of the IIP in COVID-19 and pre- and post-vaccination.

Methods

We conducted a hospital-based observational study in Fukushima prefecture, Japan. We enrolled COVID-19 inpatients who tested positive by PCR. We used serum samples collected > 10 years before the pandemic as the negative control. We also included volunteers vaccinated at the hospital. All participants were tested using an IIP with whole-cell antigen of the six SARS-CoV-2 variants isolated in Japan during the epidemic and an IgG ELISA kit. Negative controls and vaccinated volunteers were also tested using a lateral flow assay (LFA) kit. We conducted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis to evaluate diagnostic accuracy and performed logistic regression analysis to explore factors associated with antibody titer.

Results

We included 146 COVID-19 inpatients, 38 negative controls, and 36 vaccinated volunteers. Most participants had the highest titer for IgG and IgM in the wild type-A antigen among the six variants. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the IgG ELISA kit were 60.3%, 100%, and 68.5%; of the IIP for IgG with the cutoff titer at 1:80, 82.2%, 94.7%, and 84.8%, respectively. The ROC curves of the ELISA and IIP for IgG were almost identical. In the IgG tests of the 36 volunteers, 35 were positive for ELISA and IIP and 34 for LFA after two vaccinations. IgM titers in the IIP were <  = 1:40 in 114 patients and 32 volunteers after two vaccinations; therefore, the IgM titer is unsuitable for diagnosis. In COVID-19 patients, age, days from disease onset, >  = 7 days after the second vaccination, and immunosuppressants for comorbidity were associated with IgG titer of >  = 1:640 in the IIP.

Conclusions

The diagnostic accuracy of the IIP for detecting IgG antibodies in COVID-19 or after two vaccinations is equivalent to that of an ELISA. Further investigations are required to address the association between antibody titers in the IIP and their protective or harmful effects against COVID-19.
Enhanced clindamycin delivery using chitosan-coated niosomes to prevent Toxoplasma gondii strain VEG in pregnant mice: an experimental study
Authors: Sadeghi Mitra , Hosseini Seyed Abdollah , Sarvi Shahabeddin , Ebrahimnejad Pedram , Asgaryan Omran Hossein , Zare Zohre , Gholami Shirzad , Khalilian Alireza , Ahmadi Seyedeh Melika , Hajizadeh Fatemeh , Tork Mostafa , Daryani Ahmad , Aghayan Sargis A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Congenital toxoplasmosis occurs when a pregnant woman becomes infected with Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) for the first time. Treatment typically involves antimicrobial medications, with spiramycin commonly used to prevent transmission. However, spiramycin's effectiveness is limited due to poor placental penetration. Clindamycin, another antibiotic, can cross the placenta but reaches the fetus at only half the maternal concentration. Encapsulating the drug in chitosan-coated niosomes (Cs-Nio) could enhance its effectiveness by targeting specific organs and ensuring sustained release. To address the challenges of using clindamycin, a niosome-coated chitosan system was investigated for treating congenital toxoplasmosis caused by the VEG strain of T. gondii in an animal model.

Methods

Pregnant mice were infected with VEG strain of T. gondii on the 12th day of pregnancy, followed by treatment with various drugs across six groups. The treatments included chitosan-coated niosomes loaded clindamycin (Cs-Nio-Cli) and other controls. Parasitological evaluations (microscopic examination and real-time PCR), along with histopathological and immunological assessments were conducted to assess treatment efficacy. Finally, statistical analysis was conducted using GraphPad Prism 8.0 and SPSS 26, comparing test and control groups with T test and Mann–Whitney test. A p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The study found that treatment with Cs-Nio-Cli significantly reduced the number of T. gondii cysts in the brain and eyes (97.59% and 92.68%, respectively) compared to the negative control group. It also mitigated inflammatory changes, prevented cell death, and reduced vascular cuffs in the brain. In addition, Cs-Nio-Cli treatment decreased bleeding, placental thrombosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration in the placenta while improving eye tissue health by reducing retinal folds and bleeds. Immunologically, nanoclindamycin treatment resulted in lower TNF-α cytokine levels and higher IL-10 levels, indicating an enhanced anti-inflammatory response.

Conclusions

Although Cs-Nio-Cli demonstrates promise in reducing the transmission of congenital toxoplasmosis and mitigating the effects of congenital toxoplasmosis, additional research is necessary to determine the optimal treatment regimens for the complete eradication of the parasite in the fetus.
Severe carbohydrate restriction augments the antiproliferative effect of hormonal therapy in a murine model of Ehrlich breast adenocarcinoma: histological and immunohistochemical investigations
Authors: Kotb Ashraf , Abdelnaby Reham , Hosny Sara Adel , Desoky Ahmed , Eldemery Ahmed Bahgat , Rashed Laila Ahmed , ShamsEldeen Asmaa Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Background

Malignant tumors of the breast are the most diagnosed cancers in females globally. Recent evidence suggests that carbohydrate restriction (CR), especially ketogenic diets, has become a potential treatment approach for many malignancies, including breast cancer. Tamoxifen (TAX) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (ERM) that can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. The current work was designed to assess the impact of CR on the proliferation of breast adenocarcinoma cells and to compare this impact with that of TAX. Study groups included: group 1: vehicle-treated mice; group 2: the Ehrlich group: injected Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells (2.5 × 106) in 0.25 ml isotonic saline; group 3: CR group: mice were supplied with a diet regimen of severe CR throughout the study and injected EAC at week 7; group 4: hormonal therapy (HT) group: mice in this group injected with EAC at week 7 and then received TAX at a dose of 20 mg/kg 3 times/week orally for 3 weeks; and lastly group 5: the group of combined intervention. The mice in the CR, HT, and the combined groups received Ehrlich cancer cells at the same dose and route as the Ehrlich group.

Results

CR and HT groups demonstrated a significant decrease in levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), carbohydrate antigen (CA 15–3), hexokinase 2 (HK2), hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) α, and malondialdehyde (MDA) compared to the Ehrlich group. Additionally, the mean area % of caspase-3 was significantly increased, and the mean area % of Ki67 and estrogen receptor (ER)α was significantly decreased.

Conclusions

The combined treatment demonstrated the most advantageous outcome, as evidenced by reduced CA 15–3 levels, tumor size, and the mean area % of Ki67. This suggests that the addition of severe CR to the conventional therapy of breast cancer has a beneficial effect.
Surgical Management of Acute Subdural Hematoma: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pichardo-Rojas Pavel S. , Rodriguez-Elvir Francisco A. , Hjeala-Varas Amir , Sanchez-Velez Roberto , Portugal-Beltrán Emma , Barrón-Lomelí Aldo , Freeman Priscilla I. , Dono Antonio , Kitagawa Ryan , Esquenazi Yoshua
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Traumatic acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) is a medical emergency that requires prompt neurosurgical intervention. Urgent surgical evacuation may be performed with craniotomy (CO) and decompressive craniectomy (DC). However, a meta-analysis evaluating confounders, pooled functional outcomes, and mortality analyses at different time points has not been performed.

METHODS:

A systematic search was conducted until August 28, 2023. We identified studies performing ASDH evacuation with CO or DC. Outcomes included Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS), GOS-Extended, mortality, procedure-related complications, and reoperation. Variables were assessed using risk ratio (RR) and mean difference.

RESULTS:

Among 684 published articles, we included the Randomized Evaluation of Surgery with Craniectomy for Patients Undergoing Evacuation of ASDH (RESCUE-ASDH) trial, 4 propensity score–matched (PSM) cohorts, and 13 observational cohort studies. A total of 8886 patients underwent CO or DC. GCS at admission in unmatched cohorts was significantly worse in the DC group (mean difference = 2.20 [95% CI = 1.86-2.55], P < .00001). GOS-Extended scores were similar among CO and DC (RR = 1.10 [95% CI = 0.85-1.42], P = .49), including the RESCUE-ASDH trial. GOS at the last follow-up in unmatched cohorts significantly favored CO (RR = 1.66 [95% CI = 1.02-2.70], P = .04). Similarly, while short-term mortality favored CO over DC (RR = 0.69 [95% CI = 0.51-0.93], P = .02), both the RESCUE-ASDH trial and the PSM-cohorts yielded similar mortality rates among groups (P > .05). Mortality at the last follow-up in unmatched patients favored CO (RR = 0.60 [95% CI = 0.47-0.77], P < .0001). Procedure-related complications (RR = 0.74 [0.50-1.09], P = .12) and reoperation rates (RR = 0.74 [0.50-1.09], P = .12) were similar.

CONCLUSION:

Patients with ASDH undergoing DC across unmatched cohorts had a worse GCS at admission. Although ASDH mortality was lower in the CO group, these findings are derived from unmatched cohorts, potentially confounding previous analyses. Notably, population-matched studies, such as the RESCUE-ASDH trial and PSM cohorts, showed similar effectiveness in mortality and functional outcomes between CO and DC. Reoperation and complication rates were comparable among surgical approaches. Considering the prevalence of unmatched cohorts, our findings highlight the need of future clinical trials to validate the findings of the RESCUE-ASDH trial.
An Improvised External Ventricular Drain Fixation Technique to Avoid Pullout-Related Complications in a Low-Resource Setting: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study in a Single Center of Nepal
Authors: Bhandari Paawan Bahadur , Pahari Soumya , Baniya Purushottam , Yadav Stuti , Chowdhury Dhiman , Rahman Asifur
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

An external ventricular drain (EVD) placement is a commonly performed life-saving procedure. Its accidental pullout can occur in complex environments, patient care, and positioning, which leads to significant morbidity. The method of EVD fixation and pullout rates is sparsely described in the literature, and there exists a wide variation among the techniques practiced for fixation. However, some techniques require additional tools, which are expensive and unavailable in low-resource settings. We describe an improvised method of securely fixing the EVD to the scalp applicable in low-resources and describe the EVD pullout rate with the use of this technique.

METHODS:

A retrospective review of pullout-related complications in 107 consecutive patients was performed. The EVD was fixed to the scalp using an improvised technique to loop the catheter around a soft flange and secure it with sutures.

RESULTS:

Pullout occurred in 1 patient (0.93%), who was in an alcohol withdrawal state and deliberately pulled out the catheter. There were zero nondeliberate pullouts.

CONCLUSION:

EVD fixation by coiling the catheter around a soft flange has a low pullout rate. Because it is secure and requires only a flange, it is suitable for low-resource settings.
Wearable antennas
Authors: Τσώλης Άρης
Published: October 2024

Η τεχνολογία των φορετών κεραιών και ηλεκτρονικών αναπτύσσεται ραγδαία τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες και οδηγεί σε ένα μέλλον όπου τα “έξυπνα“ (smart) υφάσματα θα ενσωματωθούν στα ρούχα μας. Ωστόσο, η έρευνα, σε αυτή την τεχνολογία, περιλαμβάνει άλυτα και διάφορα ζητήματα και προκλήσεις. Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή ασχολείται με προκλήσεις όσον αφορά το χαρακτηρισμό και τις μετρήσεις φορετών κεραιών, την τροφοδοσία υφασμάτινων κεραιών και τη διασύνδεση υφασμάτινων γραμμών μεταφοράς. Όσον αφορά το χαρακτηρισμό και τις μετρήσεις φορετών κεραιών, παρουσίαζονται, η σχεδίαση ενός καινοτόμου υγρού ομοιώματος (phantom) ανθρωπίνου κορμού και μια νέα μεθοδολογία για την αξιολόγηση της απόδοσης φορετών κεραιών, χρησιμοποιώντας την τεχνική μέτρησης του κυλινδρικού κοντινού πεδίου (cylindrical near field). Όσο για την τροφοδοσία των υφασμάτινων κεραιών και τη διασύνδεση υφασμάτινων γραμμών μεταφοράς, παρουσιάζονται δύο καινοτόμες μέθοδοι.
Academic Writing and Personal Information Culture in Preparing Students to Write a Scientific Article
Authors: Lazareva L.
Published: October 2024

The need for the formation of research behavior and motivation for intellectual and creative activity of students is substantiated. Definitions of the concepts of academic writing and personal information culture are given. The results of a survey on identifying problems and self-assessment of students’ research skills, preparation and writing of scientific articles are analyzed. The time parameters and reasons for the emergence of academic writing and information culture courses in domestic higher education are considered. A comparative analysis of the content and methodological approaches of the concepts of academic writing and personal information culture is presented. The feasibility of a comparative approach using interdisciplinary methods in the study of interdisciplinary connections of these phenomena is proven in order to improve the quality of preparation and writing of scientific articles by students.
Role of Institutes of Higher Education in Social Habilitation of School Students with Limited Health Capacities
Authors: Baldanova A.
Published: October 2024

The article deals with one of the most important aspects of inclusion development, that is sectoral cooperation of educational establishments of different levels to solve the tasks of development of inclusive society. The author underlines that institutes of higher education have a lot of opportunities both to form an inclusive competence of their students and to provide help in development, training, education, career guidance, various events management and other forms of social rehabilitation of children with limited health capacities, who attend learning disability schools.

The author also shares her real-life experience of cooperation of the kind by using interactive excursions management for school students with limited health capacities as an example. These interactive excursions are the result of social project that has demonstrated the efficiency of the sectoral cooperation of educational establishments of different levels for all the participants of inclusive approach.
THE CHOICE OF TAXONOMY IN THE PREPARATION OF SITUATIONAL TASKS IN CHEMISTRY
Authors: Kalugin Ivan , Inshina Tat'yana
Published: October 2024

This article touches upon the problem of finding new, effective pedagogical means of teaching students of general education institutions, one of which is a situational task. The authors note the problem of constructing tasks of this type due to the absence of any methods for their compilation, give their own initial structure of the situational problem, demonstrating the need to make additional adjustments to it.

The purpose of the article is to clarify the structural block of “Questions and Tasks” of a situational task using the selected taxonomy, which will eliminate the problem of compilation and selection, determining the number and sequence of questions in this block, as well as preserve the logical sequence of returning to the problematic question posed at the beginning after completing all the tasks of this block.

Methodology. To achieve this goal, the authors carried out a theoretical analysis of the literature on the problem of constructing situational tasks, generalization of the information obtained, comparison of various taxonomies and selection of the most optimal for use, synthesis.

Scientific novelty / theoretical and/or practical significance. The article solves the problem of composing questions and tasks of situational task, proposes a new detailed structure-the standard of a situational task, laying a unified approach to composing tasks of this type, as well as allowing teacherspractitioners to independently design them.

Results. After the analysis of the scientific literature, several main taxonomies of educational purposes were identified (the taxonomy of B. Bloom with its existing modifications, V. Gerlach and A. Sullivan, A. de Blok, J. Guilford, R. Gagnier and M. Merill), the result of which was the choice of the original taxonomy of B. Bloom, characterized by high efficiency and ease of use in the future other teachers. The article also provides an example of a chemical situational task on the topic “Epoxides (oxyrans)” intended for 10th grade students, compiled using B. Bloom’s taxonomy.

In conclusion, the conclusion is made about the success of the application of B. Bloom’s taxonomy for the construction of a block of “Questions and tasks” of a situational problem.
Sociocultural Approach to the Study of the Phenomenon of Childhood
Authors: Klyavina I. , Vasil'kovskaya Margarita
Published: October 2024

The article substantiates the relevance of the appeal to the study of the phenomenon of childhood, analyzes the negative consequences of the collapse of the country in the 1990s, and notes a positive trend in the activities of the state in the socio-cultural sphere of modern Russia. The methodological multidimensional nature of the study of the phenomenon of modern childhood is considered and the need for its use within the framework of a sociocultural approach is argued, while the features of childhood culture and its content are revealed.

The authors present examples of the implementation of the results of scientific research on the phenomenon of childhood in the educational activities of universities in the country, as well as a brief description of the educational course “Culture of Childhood”, its constituent elements, and some approaches to teaching methods. An integral element in the study of the course “Culture of Childhood” is conducting training sessions and boundary control using interactive forms and teaching methods, performing creative tasks that contribute to the development of socio-cultural technologies, and the accumulation of a “creative portfolio”.

The article substantiates the idea of the need for further study of childhood and the use of research results for implementation in social practice and in the training of specialists in the socio-cultural sphere. Conclusions are drawn that the study of the world of childhood in different human societies is multi- and interdisciplinary in modern science. The peculiarity of the socio-cultural approach to the study of the phenomenon of childhood is the systematization and synthesis of existing and new knowledge about modern childhood and the integration of research results into social practice, there has been a tendency to form a new aspect in the field of socio–cultural study of the phenomenon of childhood – educational.
Dynamics of Special Conditions in Professional Educational Organizations
Authors: Manuylova V.
Published: October 2024

The article considers key issues of creating an inclusive environment in colleges and technical schools for young people with disabilities and disorders of psychophysical development. A detailed analysis of foreign and domestic modern studies in the field of vocational training of young people with disabilities is conducted. A diagnostic toolkit is described that allows assessing the level of readiness of professional educational organizations to implement inclusive practices. The diagnostic toolkit allows for a comprehensive assessment of the conditions for implementing inclusive processes at the socio-pedagogical, personal-activity, organizational-didactic levels from the perspective of different participants in the training of students with disabilities and deviations in psychophysical development. A study was conducted on the creation of special conditions in colleges and technical schools in different regions of the country, ensuring an increase in the demand for vocational education among applicants with disabilities and disorders of psychophysical development and their parents, as well as improving the quality of vocational training for this category of citizens. During the diagnostic procedures, a SWOT analysis of the college and technical school environment was carried out, which made it possible to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the organization of the inclusive environment of each professional educational organization participating in the study. The risks and opportunities for the development of inclusive professional education, including secondary education, were identified, taking into account the specifics of the regional labor market, the prospective development program of the subject of the Russian Federation. The conducted study, through cluster analysis, made it possible to identify the levels of creating special conditions for students with disabilities and psychophysical development disorders, to give their descriptive characteristics, and to determine the prospects for the development of an inclusive educational environment for each professional educational organization participating in this study.
Observations of coronal holes with the Siberian Radioheliograph
Authors: Altyntsev Alexander , Globa Mariia , Meshalkina Nataliya , Sych Robert
Published: September 2024

Multi-wavelength observations of a coronal hole (CH) with two-dimensional spatial resolution have been made for the first time in the frequency range from 2.8 to 12 GHz. At frequencies below 6 GHz, the average brightness of the hole is 1.5 times lower than the brightness level of the quiet Sun. The distribution of radio brightness over the hole is inhomogeneous: the ratio of maximum to minimum brightness temperatures falls from several times at low frequencies to tenths of fractions at the upper received frequencies. At frequencies above 6 GHz, the temperature contrast between the CH and regions of the quiet Sun is small. Within the CH, there are compact sources that are bright relative to the quiet Sun. In general, observations of CHs with SRH are promising both for the research into the nature of CHs and for the applied problems of forecasting solar wind characteristics.
Large-scale relationships of the geomagnetic indices SYM-H and ASY-H with the north-south IMF component and the solar wind beta parameter
Authors: Makarov Georgy
Published: September 2024

Using annual average values, the relationships are examined of the geomagnetic indices SYM-H, ASY-H, and Dst with solar wind parameters in 1981–2015. The data used was divided into two samples according to the sign of the north-south component Bn of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). Variations in the annual average values of each of the Dst, SYM-H, and ASY-H indices for southward and northward IMF have been found to be similar and their linear correlation coefficients r to be high: 0.871, 0.863, and 0.943 respectively. The similarity between variations of the indices with different signs of Bn is probably due to their connection with the number of sunspots. It has been established that Dst, SYM-H, and ASY-H depend on the solar wind parameter β: their absolute values decrease with increasing β, regardless of Bn sign. The decrease in the indices with increasing β is likely to be caused by the transition of the magnetosphere to a quiet state due to the increasing predominance of thermal pressure over magnetic one in the solar wind and a decrease in the level of solar wind turbulence. SYM-H and ASY-H have been found to reveal the closest relationships with β, whereas SYM-H more strongly depends on β for southward IMF (r=0.744) than for northward IMF (r=0.677). On the contrary, for ASY-H r=–0.741 at northward IMF and r=–0.719 at southward IMF. Similar to SYM-H, Dst (to a lesser extent) significantly correlates with β at southward IMF (r=0.629) and weaker at northward IMF (r=0.456).
Spectral properties of solar wind plasma flux and magnetic field fluctuations across fast reverse interplanetary shocks
Authors: Sapunova Olga , Borodkova Natalia , Zastenker Georgy
Published: September 2024

We have analyzed spectra of fluctuations in the solar wind plasma flux and the magnetic field magnitude near the front of a fast reverse shocks, using data from the BMSW device (Bright Monitor of Solar Wind) operating on the SPEKTR-R satellite. Its time resolution made it possible to study plasma flux fluctuations up to a frequency of 16 Hz. Magnetic field data was taken mainly from the WIND satellite, for which the frequency of the fluctuations considered was up to 5.5 Hz.
The slope of the spectra of the solar wind flux fluctuations on MHD scales has been shown to be close to the slope of the spectrum of magnetic field fluctuations in the disturbed region. On kinetic scales, the difference can be significant. For the region ahead of the front, the difference in the slope of the spectrum can be quite large both in the MHD and in the kinetic region.
The frequency of the break of the flux spectrum ranges from 0.6 to 1.3 Hz, which corresponds to the scale of the proton inertial length. In a number of events, however, the shape of the spectrum indicates the influence of the proton gyroradius frequency, which is usually 0.05–0.15 Hz. The break in the power spectrum of magnetic field fluctuations also more often ranges from 0.7 to 1.2 Hz. In this case, the slope of the MHD part of the spectrum changes little, but in the kinetic part it increases slightly when moving to the disturbed region.
How to manage a dry socket?- review of the latest treatment methods
Authors: Pacek Laura , Wróbel Aleksandra , Dziewulska Aleksandra , Kiełt Weronika , Kowalska Klaudia , Kozłowska Julia , Broniec Gabriela , Kudła Aleksandra , Wajdowicz Barbara , Czapiewska Rozalia
Published: October 2024

Introduction
Alveolar osteitis is the most common postoperative complication of tooth extraction. This medical condition has been recognized for decades, however its treatment approach is diverse with varying outcome.
Aim of the study
The purpose of this review is to examine and discuss contemporary methods of treating dry socket. Through a synthesis of available studies, the paper aims to identify the most beneficial methods to deal with this post-extraction complication.
Materials and methods
An analysis of scientific articles available in Pubmed and Google Scholar databases was conducted. The study used publications from 2017 to 2024. The search process included the use of the following keywords: “dry socket”, “alveolar osteitis”, “alveolitis sicca dolorosa”, “socket pain treatment”.
Results
Thirty-five articles were selected and reviewed carefully and independently by all authors. The agents used in the treatment of dry socket were classified as: remedies, drugs and medications, blood products, and technologies. Each group of agents is described with a discussion of their therapeutic efficacy.
Summary
Dry socket is a common dental problem. Currently, non-invasive methods of treating this complication are preferred. Modern solutions can provide quick and effective therapy. The treatment should relieve discomfort and promote tissue regeneration. Despite various methods, there is still no clear opinion on the best way to treat dry socket.
What Sets Uveal Melanoma Apart, and How Can We Address It? A Comprehensive Review of Pathophysiology, Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Lissak Karina , Szczepaniak Zuzanna , Konopka Agata , Wdowiak Natalia , Choinka Martyna , Komarów Małgorzata , Karasińska Dominika , Kalisiak Jakub , Koralewicz Mateusz , Orzeł Milena , Orzeł Bartłomiej
Published: September 2024

Uveal melanoma (UM) is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. It is the most common primary intraocular cancer in adults, with an incidence of around 5.2 cases per million people annually. Nearly half of UM patients develop metastatic disease, most often affecting the liver. UM refers to any malignant tumor arising from melanocytes in the uveal tract, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Treatment options for UM depend on several factors, including tumor size, location, and the patient's overall health. These options may include radiation therapy, surgery, laser treatments, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. UM is often described as an immune-privileged tumor, with a distinct immune profile compared to cutaneous melanoma (CM). This article aims to highlight the unique characteristics and challenges associated with this rare form of melanoma. By providing detailed information, the article seeks to enhance understanding and management of this rare form of melanoma.