bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Signaling pathways activated and regulated by stem cell-derived exosome therapy
Authors: Li Ding , Li Danni , Wang Zhao , Li Jiaojiao , Shahzad Khawar Ali , Wang Yanhong , Tan Fei
Published: August 2024

Stem cell-derived exosomes exert comparable therapeutic effects to those of their parental stem cells without causing immunogenic, tumorigenic, and ethical disadvantages. Their therapeutic advantages are manifested in the management of a broad spectrum of diseases, and their dosing versatility are exemplified by systemic administration and local delivery. Furthermore, the activation and regulation of various signaling cascades have provided foundation for the claimed curative effects of exosomal therapy. Unlike other relevant reviews focusing on the upstream aspects (e.g., yield, isolation, modification), and downstream aspects (e.g. phenotypic changes, tissue response, cellular behavior) of stem cell-derived exosome therapy, this unique review endeavors to focus on various affected signaling pathways. After meticulous dissection of relevant literature from the past five years, we present this comprehensive, up-to-date, disease-specific, and pathway-oriented review. Exosomes sourced from various types of stem cells can regulate major signaling pathways (e.g., the PTEN/PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, TGF-β, HIF-1α, Wnt, MAPK, JAK-STAT, Hippo, and Notch signaling cascades) and minor pathways during the treatment of numerous diseases encountered in orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, cardiothoracic surgery, plastic surgery, general surgery, and other specialties. We provide a novel perspective in future exosome research through bridging the gap between signaling pathways and surgical indications when designing further preclinical studies and clinical trials.
Long-term Compressive Strength Properties of Concrete Incorporating Admixtures: Outdoor Exposure Testing in a Coastal Environment
Authors: Lee Binna , Lee Jong-Suk , Ryou Jae-Suk
Published: August 2024

In this study, concrete specimens were fabricated based on domestically manufactured materials, and long-term exposure tests were conducted in a domestic coastal environment. This study analyzes the long-term compressive strength characteristics of concrete mixed with admixtures. The mixed materials used were divided into blast furnace slag and fly ash. The blast furnace slag and fly ash were, respectively, produced by replacing ~ 30% and ~ 15% of the cement. The compressive strength was measured at 28 day, 1 year, and 10 years of age and compared with that of ordinary concrete. In addition, the long-term compressive strength results obtained in this study were compared with those of concrete mixed with admixtures reported in the literature. The strengths of the ordinary specimen at 1 year and 10 years of age increased by ~ 10 MPa and ~ 22 MPa compared with those at 28 day of age. However, concrete mixed with admixtures yielded compressive strength increases of ~ 5 MPa and ~ 26 MPa at 1 year and 10 years of age, respectively, compared with those at 28 day of age. A comparison of the compressive strengths of concrete mixed with admixtures reported in the literature (based on age) and those obtained in this study showed that there was an initial strength difference in the range of 10–25%. However, the compressive strength at 10 years of age was almost similar to those reported in the literature with differences of less than 5%. These findings confirmed that when using pozzolanic admixtures, the development rate of the initial strength may vary owing to various factors; however, the long-term strength converges within a certain range.
Unveiling the link: hepatitis C virus and Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Eletreby Rasha , Elhady Eman , Shaheen Shaimaa , Hamza Iman , Hashem Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Background

Parkinson disease (PD) is one of the disabling neurological disorders. The etiology of Parkinson disease is still unknown. Hepatitis C virus is one of the neurotropic viruses which is incriminated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson disease. Hepatitis C virus might affect the dopaminergic neurons, affecting the advancement of PD.

Methods

This study is observational, cross-sectional study done on 2 phases: one phase on PD patients without history of HCV and another phase on HCV patients with no history of PD. 104 PD patient were tested for HCV antibodies and 40 HCV patients with various grades of liver fibrosis were assessed for early pre-motor symptoms of parkinsonism.

Results

Among patients with parkinsonism, HCV Abs testing was negative in all the studied patients. On the other hand, chronic HCV group included 40 patients, 27.5% were cirrhotic (11/40). Child C patients showed significantly higher percentages of non-motor parkinsonian symptoms, and regarding the HCV group, the majority (85%) of the patients show cognitive impairment, (27.5%) were at stage 1 of anxious mood, while half (50%) of the patients were at stage 1 of fatigue as evaluated by UPDRS Score. Cirrhosis was a significant factor for having non-motor (early) parkinsonism.

Conclusion

Here we show that advanced cirrhosis is associated with a variety of neurological symptoms including parkinsonian, which needs awareness for better preventive and therapeutic measures for early treatment of hepatitis avoiding the occurrence of cirrhosis, which can lead to parkinsonism.
The biliary tree musketeers: cholangiocarcinoma – one name for all, but at least three different diseases with distinct targets
Authors: Marins Lidiane Vieira , Moniz Camila Motta Venchiarutti , Freire Cecília Souza , Campos Antonio Hugo José Fróes Marques
Published: August 2024

Cholangiocarcinoma, a malignant neoplasm of the biliary system, poses a significant challenge in clinical practice due to its increasing incidence and diagnostic and therapeutic complexity. This review addresses the epidemiological aspects, risk factors, and classification of this disease. We examine advances in histological diagnosis, highlighting essential criteria for accurate assessment. Additionally, we discuss standard treatment approaches and their efficacy, alongside the latest innovations in therapy, including emerging biomarkers and targeted therapies. By providing a comprehensive overview of these topics, this article aims to enhance understanding and guide the pathological diagnosis and clinical management of this devastating disease.
Pediatric Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Outcomes After Surgery Without Adjuvant Radioactive Iodine
Authors: Castellanos Luz E , Zafereo Mark E , Sturgis Erich M , Wang Jennifer R , Ying Anita K , Waguespack Steven G
Published: August 2024

Context

Pediatric papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is usually treated with total thyroidectomy followed by radioactive iodine (RAI). Recently, RAI has been used more selectively based on surgical pathology and postoperative dynamic risk stratification (DRS).

Objective

To describe patients with pediatric PTC not initially treated with RAI and their disease outcomes.

Methods

This was an ambispective study at a tertiary cancer center of patients < 19 years diagnosed from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 2021, with stage 1 PTC who intentionally were not treated with RAI within a year of diagnosis. We assessed clinical characteristics, management, and disease outcomes using DRS.

Results

Of 490 PTC patients, we identified 93 eligible patients (median age at diagnosis 16 years; 87% female), including 46 (49%) with cervical lymph node metastases. Initial management included total thyroidectomy ± neck dissection (n = 69, 75%), lobectomy ± neck dissection (n = 20, 21%), or a Sistrunk procedure for ectopic PTC (n = 4, 4%). After a median follow-up of 5.5 years (range 1-26), most patients (85/93; 91%) remained disease-free with no further therapy. Persistent (n = 5) or recurrent (n = 3) disease was found in 9% of the entire cohort. Four patients ultimately received RAI, of which only 1 clearly benefitted, and additional surgery was performed or planned in 4 patients, 2 of whom had an excellent response at last follow-up.

Conclusion

Selected pediatric PTC patients, even those with lymph node metastases, may not require therapeutic 131I and can avoid the unnecessary risks of RAI while still benefitting from the excellent long-term outcomes that are well described for this disease.
Robotic-Assisted Obturator Nerve Repair: A Technical Report
Authors: Syal Arjun , Vazquez Sima , Novetsky Akiva P. , Pisapia Jared
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:

Untreated obturator nerve injury may result in weakness in thigh adduction, decreased medial thigh sensation, and groin pain. A neurosurgeon may be consulted intraoperatively for repair. Although there are reports of obturator nerve injury and repair in the gynecologic surgery literature, there are few reports detailing the specific steps of nerve repair after partial transection and the underlying principles of nerve coaptation, especially in the robotic-assisted setting.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

A partial transection of the right obturator nerve was noted in a patient undergoing total laparoscopic hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and lymph node dissection using the da Vinci robot. Sutures were placed in the epineurium of the cut nerves to realign the fascicles. A porcine wrap was placed around the coaptation site and covered with fibrin glue. The right lower extremity was passively ranged to ensure no tension was present across the repair site. The patient had loss of right leg adduction after surgery, but she recovered full motor function 5 months after surgery with no numbness or pain.

CONCLUSION:

The current report describes a repair strategy for partial-thickness obturator nerve injury in the setting of a laparoscopic surgery. Working in a multidisciplinary fashion, the tenets of nerve repair may be applied to robotic-assisted cases of obturator nerve injury, resulting in neurologic recovery.
Suprasellar Anterior-Posterior Diameter Optimizes the Use of Intraoperative MRI in Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Pituitary Surgery
Authors: Hannan Cathal John , Daousi Christina , Radon Mark , Gilkes Catherine E.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Intraoperative MRI (iMRI) has been demonstrated to improve the extent of resection of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors resected using endoscopic endonasal approaches. We sought to establish if preoperative clinicoradiological parameters could be used to predict which patients are most likely to benefit from iMRI and thus allow more efficient use of this technology.

METHODS:

A prospectively maintained surgical database of all endoscopic pituitary tumor resections with iMRI guidance performed between May 2017 and September 2023 was accessed. Data were collected on clinical and radiological parameters that may predict reintervention after iMRI. Logistic regression models were constructed to assess the relationship between predictor variables and reintervention after iMRI.

RESULTS:

Seventy-three patients were included in the study. After review of the iMRI, 24/73 (33%) patients underwent surgical reintervention. The combined rate of gross total resection/near total resection was 64/73 (88%). The rate of biochemical cure of endocrine disease after surgery for a hormonally active tumor was 15/21 (71%). On univariate logistic regression analysis, the only factor significantly associated with reintervention after iMRI was the suprasellar anterior-posterior diameter (odds ratio 1.1, 95% CI 1.01-1.2, P = .030).

CONCLUSION:

Suprasellar anterior-posterior diameter ≥15 mm predicts the requirement for reintervention after endoscopic resection of pituitary neuroendocrine tumor. Use of this easily obtained radiological parameter will allow iMRI to be used in those patients who are most likely to benefit.
Transcirculation Approaches to Endovascular Flow Diversion of Intracranial Aneurysms: A Systematic Review With Technical Considerations
Authors: Covell Michael M. , Palepu Chandrasekhar , Sioutas Georgios S. , Stirrat Thomas P. , Prvulovic Stefan T. , Patel Saarang , Kandregula Sandeep , Burkhardt Jan-Karl , Srinivasan Visish M.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Flow diversion (FD) of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) is an increasingly used and efficacious treatment modality. Transcirculation approaches, or approaches that cross the contralateral or anteroposterior arterial supply before reaching a target vessel, have been used to treat cerebrovascular pathologies when traditional approaches are unsuitable or require intraoperative complication management. This study sought to review IAs treated with FD using a transcirculation approach to determine the technique's safety and efficacy.

METHODS:

A systematic review of the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases was completed per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Studies were included if they described transcirculation approaches in adult patients with IAs undergoing FD. Outcomes of interest included intraoperative complications and aneurysm occlusion rates.

RESULTS:

Twelve studies with 19 patients (N = 19, mean age = 54.1 y, 89.5% female) were identified. Wide-necked (N = 5, 26.3%) and saccular (N = 5, 26.3%) aneurysms were most represented, while 57.9% (N = 11) of aneurysms were unruptured and 15.8% (N = 3) of aneurysms were ruptured. The mean aneurysm sac and neck size were 16.9 mm and 11.9 mm, respectively. The most commonly deployed flow diverter was the Pipeline Embolization Device (N = 14, 73.9%). Successful FD (complete occlusion and/or good wall apposition) was recorded in 84.6% of qualifying patients with follow-up data, while 2 patients (15.4%) developed an intraoperative carotid-cavernous fistula.

CONCLUSION:

Transcirculation approaches to FD offer neurointerventionalists a safe and efficacious method for device deployment, rescue scenarios, and challenging anatomy. Prospective studies may determine the most appropriate indications for transcirculation approaches to FD, while novel, lower profile devices may improve its technical feasibility and safety.
Time to Elicit Physiological and Exertional Vigorous Responses from Daily Living Activities: Setting Foundations of an Empirical Definition of VILPA
Authors: AHMADI MATTHEW N. , HOLTERMANN ANDREAS , TUDOR-LOCKE CATRINE , KOSTER ANNEMARIE , JOHNSON NATHAN , CHAU JOSEPHINE , WEI LE , SABAG ANGELO , MAHER CAROL , THØGERSEN-NTOUMANI CECILIE , STAMATAKIS EMMANUEL
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity (VILPA) are bursts of incidental vigorous activity that occur during day-to-day activities outside of the exercise-domain. Vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity has shown promise in lowering risk of mortality and chronic disease. However, there is an absence of an empirically derived definition. Using physiological and effort-based metrics commonly used to define vigorous intensity, we investigated the minimum time needed to elicit physiological and perceived exertion responses to standardized activities of daily living.

Methods

Seventy adults (age = 58.0 ± 9.6 yr; 35 female) completed 9 VILPA activities of daily living in a randomized order, which included fast walking, fast incline walking, stair climbing, stationary cycling, and carrying external weight equal to 5% and 10% of body weight. Metabolic rate (by continuous indirect calorimetry), heart rate (telemetry) and perceived effort (Borg Scale) were measured during exercise. Time to reach VILPA was assessed using %V̇O2max, %HRmax, and rating of perceived exertion thresholds.

Results

The mean time to elicit VILPA ranged from 65 to 95 s (mean ± sd = 76.7 ± 3.8 s) for %V̇O2max, 68 to 105 s (mean ± sd = 82.8 ± 6.8 s) for %HRmax, and 20 to 60 s (mean ± sd = 44.6 ± 6.7 s) for rating of perceived exertion. For each of the three indices, there was no difference in the time to elicit VILPA responses by sex or age (P > 0.08), and times were also consistent between activities of daily living tasks. For example, for females and males, the average time to elicit vigorous responses while walking on a flat surface was 85.8 s (±16.9 s) and 80 s (±13.9 s), respectively, and for stair climbing while carrying 10% of body weight the duration was 78.4 s (±17.6 s) and 76.9 (±17.7 s).

Conclusions

When participants undertook activities of daily living, VILPA elicited a physiological response at an average of 77 to 83 s for %V̇O2max and %HRmax, and 45 s for perceived exertion. The absence of a difference in the time to reach VILPA between sex and age suggests that a consistent behavioral VILPA translation can be used in interventions and population-based studies designed to assess the health effects of incidental physical activity.
Exercise Intolerance in McArdle Disease: A Role for Cardiac Impairment? A Preliminary Study in Humans and Mice
Authors: SANTOS-LOZANO ALEJANDRO , BORAITA ARACELI , VALENZUELA PEDRO L. , SANTALLA ALFREDO , VILLARREAL-SALAZAR MÓNICA , BUSTOS ASUNCIÓN , ALEJO LIDIA B. , BARRANCO-GIL DAVID , MILLÁN-PARLANTI DANIELA , LÓPEZ-ORTIZ SUSANA , PEÑÍN-GRANDES SAúL , ORELLANA JOSé NARANJO , FIUZA-LUCES CARMEN , GáLVEZ BEATRIZ G. , GARCÍA-FERNáNDEZ MIGUEL ÁNGEL , PINÓS TOMÀS , LUCIA ALEJANDRO
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Whether cardiac impairment can be fully discarded in McArdle disease—the paradigm of “exercise intolerance,” caused by inherited deficiency of the skeletal muscle–specific glycogen phosphorylase isoform (“myophosphorylase”)—remains to be determined.

Methods

Eight patients with McArdle disease and seven age/sex-matched controls performed a 15-min moderate, constant-load cycle-ergometer exercise bout followed by a maximal ramp test. Electrocardiographic and two-dimensional transthoracic (for cardiac dimension’s assessment) and speckle tracking (for left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) assessments) echocardiographic evaluations were performed at baseline. Electrocardiographic and GLS assessments were also performed during constant-load exercise and immediately upon maximal exertion. Four human heart biopsies were obtained in individuals without McArdle disease, and in-depth histological/molecular analyses were performed in McArdle and wild-type mouse hearts.

Results

Exercise intolerance was confirmed in patients (“second wind” during constant-load exercise, −55% peak power output vs controls). As opposed to controls, patients showed a decrease in GLS during constant-load exercise, especially upon second wind occurrence, but with no other between-group difference in cardiac structure/function. Human cardiac biopsies showed that all three glycogen phosphorylase—myophosphorylase, but also liver and especially brain—isoforms are expressed in the normal adult heart, thereby theoretically compensating for eventual myophosphorylase deficiency. No overall histological (including glycogen depots), cytoskeleton, metabolic, or mitochondrial (morphology/network/distribution) differences were found between McArdle and wild-type mouse hearts, except for lower levels of pyruvate kinase M2 and translocase of outer-membrane 20-kDa subunit in the former.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence that cardiac structure and function seem to be preserved in patients with McArdle disease. However, the role for an impaired cardiac contractility associated with the second wind phenomenon should be further explored.
Indocyanine green based antimicrobial photodynamic therapy as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment in periodontal maintenance patients: a clinico-microbiological study
Authors: Roy Chowdhury Urbashi , Kamath Deepa , Rao Pooja , Shenoy M Suchitra , Shenoy Ramya
Published: August 2024

Background: Antimicrobial Photodynamic therapy for the treatment of periodontitis is being increasingly gaining attention but at present, very limited data are available on the clinical and microbiological outcomes obtained following Indocyanine Green as the photosensitizer in Maintenance patients. The objective was to evaluate the efficiency of Indocyanine(ICG)-green based photodynamic therapy as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in patients enrolled in maintenance therapy. Methodology: Using a split mouth study design, 24 participants enrolled in the maintenance therapy, having diagnosed as Periodontitis, were randomly subjected to scaling and root planing(SRP). The test group additionally received ICG-based (Aurogreen®, Aurolabs, Madurai, India,1mg/ml) aPDT with an 810nm diode laser. Clinical assessment of Plaque index, modified Sulcus bleeding index, Probing pocket depth, Clinical loss of attachment and microbiological analysis of A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, T. forsythia and F.nucleatum were performed at baseline and 3 months after treatment. Results: It was observed that although there was no significant difference between the test and control group at baseline and 3 months, there was a statistically significant reduction in the mean values in both the groups at 3 months. Microbiological analysis showed substantial reduction in detection frequency of the bacteria assessed at 3 months in both the groups. Conclusion: Within the limits of the study, ICG-based aPDT did not show additional advantage over SRP alone at 3 months, though it could be a promising treatment modality in maintenance patients in terms of patient comfort and the treatment time taken. More randomised clinical trials should be employed to understand the exact mode of action of ICG based aPDT and its role in treatment of periodontal disease.
Towards implementing telemedicine in Tunisia: A knowledge, attitude and practice study among medical doctors
Authors: Nouira Mariem , Souayeh Nesrine
Published: August 2024

Background: The use of information and communication technology such as telemedicine occupies nowadays a huge place in modern medicine practice all over the world, mainly after the COVID-19 pandemic. However, its implementation in Tunisia and other developing countries has achieved little success with low utilization and can be challenging for several reasons. In this study, our aim was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practice of Tunisian medical doctors regarding telemedicine. Methods: This was a cross-sectional web survey, administered to medical doctors in Tunisia in October 2022. Respondents’ level of knowledge of telemedicine was assessed by calculating a knowledge score (0 to 12). Attitude subsections were about perceived telemedicine attributes of relative advantage, compatibility, trial ability and complexity. Results: A total of 243 participants were included. The mean age was 45 ± 9.6 years old, and 57.2% were female, with a mean of 14.3 ± 10.3 years of professional experience. The majority (95.9%) had an average or high level of computer skills. More than half (59.3%) had a poor level of telemedicine knowledge. A good level of knowledge was significantly associated with age category over 50 years (p = 0.02) and with years of experience over 10 (p = 0.03). The majority (89.3%) had a moderate or high score about perceived advantages. The majority (88.5%) accepted use of telemedicine in their future practice. Almost half (46.9%) had practiced telemedicine activities before using a mobile phone (91%) or social media (64%). The principal limitations of applying telemedicine were challenges of organization and implementation, and incomplete patient examination. Conclusions: Although Tunisian doctors’ knowledge and practice of telemedicine were unsatisfactory, their positive attitude and willingness to try it in their future practice were encouraging. There is an urgent need for implementing telemedicine in Tunisia to improve health care coverage in some unprivileged areas.
Leveraging Quadratic Polynomials in Python for Advanced Data Analysis
Authors: Sipakov Rostyslav , Voloshkina Olena , Kovalova Anastasiia
Published: August 2024

This research explores the application of quadratic polynomials in Python for advanced data analysis. The study demonstrates how quadratic models can effectively capture nonlinear relationships in complex datasets by leveraging Python libraries such as NumPy, Matplotlib, scikit-learn, and Pandas. The methodology involves fitting quadratic polynomials to the data using least-squares regression and evaluating the model fit using the coefficient of determination (R-squared). The results highlight the strong performance of the quadratic polynomial fit, as evidenced by high R-squared values, indicating the model’s ability to explain a substantial proportion of the data variability. Comparisons with linear and cubic models further underscore the quadratic model’s balance between simplicity and precision for many practical applications. The study also acknowledges the limitations of quadratic polynomials and proposes future research directions to enhance their accuracy and efficiency for diverse data analysis tasks. This research bridges the gap between theoretical concepts and practical implementation, providing an accessible Python-based tool for leveraging quadratic polynomials in data analysis.
The effect of soaking heat-polymerized acrylic resin denture base in avocado seed extract (Persea americana Mill.) on the inhibition of denture-plaque microorganisms biofilm growth
Authors: Angela Thalia , Wahyuni Siti , Halim Susanna
Published: August 2024

Background Heat polymerized acrylic (HPA) resins are known to have high porosity that contributes to increased surface roughness and microcrack formation in stress areas. This facilitates the attachment and growth of polymicrobial biofilms contributing to increased antimicrobial resistance. Many research had been carried out on avocado seeds, but no research that studies the effect of avocado seeds on denture-plaque microorganism biofilm on HPA resin has been found. Methods This study used 144 samples (n=144), namely HPA resin discs covered with mono-species and polymicrobial biofilms consisting of Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Actinomyces odontolyticus, Streptococcus gordonii, and Staphylococcus aureus. The discs were soaked for 8 hours in the 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% avocado seed extract, positive control (alkaline peroxide), and negative control (aquadest). Each disc was shaken with a vortex mixer for 1 minute, and 100 μL was added into 96-well microplates with three times repetition and incubated for 24 hours. The inhibition values were determined from the percentage inhibition value formula which required absorption values from a microplate reader (595 nm). Results In this research, it was found that the MBIC50 of avocado seed extract against the mono-species of C. albicans (5%), C. glabrata (5%), A. odontolyticus (15%), S. gordonii (15%), S. aureus (10%), while against the biofilm was 20%. There was a significant effect of soaking HPA resin in avocado seed extract of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% on the inhibition of mono-species and polymicrobial biofilms of denture-plaque microorganisms with a value of p<0.001 (p<0.05). Conclusion The MBIC50 of avocado seed extract in polymicrobial biofilm group was higher than that in the mono-species biofilm groups. Although alkaline peroxide showed higher inhibition value than that of the MBIC50 in polymicrobial biofilm group, 20% avocado seed extract was effective in inhibiting polymicrobial biofilm because it was able to inhibit more than 50% polymicrobial biofilm.
The potency and safety of platelet-rich plasma and its therapy protocol for erectile dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: VINCENT VINCENT , Ardianson Deswanto Isaac
Published: August 2024

Abstract* Background Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a novel treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) that is considered to be a cost-effective option. It has demonstrated positive outcomes and minimal adverse effects. By injecting PRP into the intracavernous tissue, it has the potential to promote angiogenesis and neuroregeneration, leading to a potential permanent improvement in erectile performance. The potency and safety as well as the variety of PRP administration protocols in the treatment of ED are the objectives of this paper. Method Using certain terms, a systematic search was done on three different databases: Science Directs, Scielo, and PubMed. Papers about PRP therapy for EDs within the last decade, be randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and be original studies with freely available full-text content were included in this study. This article omitted letters to the editor, reviews, and editorials regarding PRP and ED. Results Three RCT were included in this studies. The improvement is observed at one month, three months, and six months after the treatment, compared to the baseline. PRP group participants met the Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) in the International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) at a higher percentage than those in the placebo group at both one month and six months. Injection of PRP leads to a superior enhancement in the IIEF-EF score, compared to a placebo, in patients suffering from ED at one month, three months, six months. Conclusion PRP is a proven therapeutic technique that has been shown to greatly enhance ED. Yet, to establish uniform guidelines for PRP in treating erectile dysfunction, further investigation into PRP, particularly in protocol development, is imperative.
Grouping sounds into evolving units for the purpose of historical language comparison
Authors: List Johann-Mattis , Hill Nathan W. , Blum Frederic , Juárez Cristian
Published: August 2024

Computer-assisted approaches to historical language comparison have made great progress during the past two decades. Scholars can now routinely use computational tools to annotate cognate sets, align words, and search for regularly recurring sound correspondences. However, computational approaches still suffer from a very rigid sequence model of the form part of the linguistic sign, in which words and morphemes are segmented into fixed sound units which cannot be modified. In order to bring the representation of sound sequences in computational historical linguistics closer to the research practice of scholars who apply the traditional comparative method, we introduce improved sound sequence representations in which individual sound segments can be grouped into evolving sound units in order to capture language-specific sound laws more efficiently. We illustrate the usefulness of this enhanced representation of sound sequences in concrete examples and complement it by providing a small software library that allows scholars to convert their data from forms segmented into sound units to forms segmented into evolving sound units and vice versa.
Organization of the training process of sports improvement groups in service biathlon and service biathlon
Authors: Voronchihin Dmitriy , Zalesova Ol'ga , Gerasimova Valentina
Published: August 2024

This manual discusses the types and methods of training athletes in official double-cross and biathlon among cadets and students of educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia. It describes the development of running techniques, shooting techniques, the performance of preparatory, simulation exercises in classical and skating ski walking, the development of strength and speed endurance.
Wątki polskie w Dzienniku o. Piotra Semenenki
Authors: Gawlik Maciej
Published: August 2024

This dissertation deals with the Polish themes appearing in the “Diary” of Fr Peter Semenenko between 1851 and 1886. The book consists of six chapters. The first chapter is a comprehensive monograph of Fr Peter Semenenko divided into three parts. The caesura of the first two is the year 1852, in which he began his pastoral work in the Polish community in Rome. The last part – besides a description of his death and funeral – is astudy of the figure and work of Fr Semenenko. It also includes memories of the Resurrectionist congregation of its co-founder. The second chapter, dealing directly with the “Diary”, discusses Fr Semenenko’s legacy stored in theResurrectionist General Archive in Rome, the material structure of the “Diary” and its themes. The following chapters include a detailed study of its contents. Thus, the third chapter presents Fr Semenenko’s activities among Poles abroad, particularly touching on his pastoral work, his con-tacts with the hierarchy and his contribution to bringing about the es-tablishment of the Pontifical Polish College in Rome. The fourth chapter deals with his commitment to society in the Polish lands under partition. After an analysis of Fr Semenenko’s travels to the country and his efforts made in congregations and the papal environment for the Polish Church, his selected relationships with the clergy and laity living in the country are shown. The fifth chapter shows Fr Semenenko’s involvement in the formation of women’s orders and congregations, with particular emphasis on those that had Polish women in their ranks or were founded by Poles. The sixth chapter discusses the history of his order and Fr Semenenko’s key role in it from the beginning until his death in 1886. Having analysed the structures of the congregation, it shows his relationships in the light of the “Diary” with selected confreres and with the foundress of the Res-urrectionist Sisters. The work as a whole shows Fr Peter Semenenko was strongly involved in Polish affairs, supporting his compatriots in various ways and exhort-ing them to love their country by seeking ways of its revival on the path of faith. His example can impress and inspire a patriotic attitude even today.
Narrativas conectadas: explorando a migração brasileira indocumentada on-line e off-line
Authors: Verônica Silva Adélia , Araujo Pinto Franco Dani , De Oliveira Assis Gláucia
Published: August 2024

A migração irregular é um fenômeno globalmente relevante, e as tecnologias da informação e da comunicação (tic) desempenham um papel cada vez mais significativo na dinâmica migratória contemporânea. Este estudo concentra-se no impacto das tic, particularmente do YouTube, na dinâmica da migração irregular de brasileiros para os Estados Unidos, com foco no fenômeno conhecido como “cai-cai”. A análise investiga minuciosamente a interação entre essa plataforma e o processo de tomada de decisão da migração, enfatizando o papel crucial dos youtubers como influenciadores e validadores das escolhas migratórias. Propõe-se, aqui, uma nova perspectiva, não apenas analisando os padrões de migração, mas explorando escolhas informadas para permanecer, enriquecendo, assim, o discurso acadêmico em torno das complexidades da experiência migratória. Ademais, explora o conceito de “capital cordial” no contexto da migração, examinando criticamente como os recursos não econômicos —tipo informações e favores— são essenciais para entender a conexão entre as origens e os destinos dos migrantes. Conjugando dados etnográficos com uma revisão abrangente da literatura, o estudo destaca a relevância de explorar a conectividade pela perspectiva da imobilidade. Evidencia-se a capacidade da conectividade digital em melhorar a tomada de decisão dos migrantes, inclusive daqueles que decidem permanecer em seus locais de origem.
Autism and the HCA: the nature, impact and legacy of care legislation
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: August 2024

This series of articles explores the neurodivergent condition of autism from a range of different perspectives. This article will focus on the Mental Capacity Act (2005) , the Equality Act (2010) , the Care Act (2014) and the Health and Social Care Act (2022) , and their implications and applications for people with autism.
Genetic Susceptibility of Thrombin Measurement Levels and the Risk of Colon Adenocarcinoma: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Liu Yeliu , Zhou Jiajie
Published: August 2024

Aims/Background: This investigation sought to establish a possible correlation between thrombin measurement levels and the risk of developing colon adenocarcinoma (COAD).

Methods: Thrombin measurement levels were sourced from a study by Pietzner M (2020, PMID: 33328453) and integrated into the IEU database. Data on COAD were obtained from the FinnGen database (2021, C3_COLON_ADENO). Various analytical methods were used to assess the relationship, including inverse variance weighting (IVW), mendelian randomization-Egger (MR-Egger) regression, as well as weighted median and mode techniques. Sensitivity analyses were performed, including Cochran’s Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, mendelian randomization Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO), along with leave-one-out analysis, to ensure the robustness of the results.

Results: The IVW analysis indicated a significant inverse association between elevated thrombin levels and the risk of COAD (odds ratio (OR) = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.66–0.88, p = 0.0003). These findings were supported by the weighted median analysis (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.68–0.90, p = 0.0006) and the weighted mode analysis (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.68–0.88, p = 0.0017).

Conclusion: This research identified an inverse causal relationship between thrombin measurement levels and the incidence of COAD, suggesting that higher thrombin levels are associated with a reduced risk of developing COAD.
Patients' experience of incontinence and incontinence-associated dermatitis in hospital settings: a qualitative study
Authors: Barakat-Johnson Michelle , Lai Michelle , Basjarahil Shifa , Campbell Jayne , Cunich Michelle , Disher Gary , Geering Samara , Ko Natalie , Leahy Catherine , Leong Thomas , McClure Eve , O'Grady Melissa , Walsh Joan , White Kate , Coyer Fiona
Published: August 2024

Objective:

To explore the experience of patients with incontinence and incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) in acute care hospitals and their family caregivers, including their perceptions and management, as well as the impact on their wellbeing.

Method:

A qualitative exploratory study design was employed in 18 wards across six acute/subacute hospitals in New South Wales, Australia. Patients with incontinence (with or without IAD) were invited to participate. Where interviews were not possible with the patient, their family caregiver was invited to participate. Semi-structured interviews were conducted.

Results:

There were 45 interviewees in the study; 41 were patients with incontinence (11 of whom had IAD) and four were family caregivers. The experience of incontinence was captured by three themes: ‘incontinence interrupts every aspect of my life’; ‘actively concealing and cloaking’; and ‘perceived as irreversible’. Incontinence was expected by the patients at their age and did not come as a surprise. It was normalised and approached with stoicism. As such, patients self-managed their incontinence by developing strategies to ensure they avoided episodes of incontinence during their stay. Incontinence left patients feeling anxious, embarrassed and with a sense of shame, and they did not communicate these feelings, or engage with health professionals about their incontinence, nor did health professionals discuss their incontinence with them. There was a strong sense of resignation that incontinence was irreversible and nothing could be done to improve it. All participants displayed little knowledge of IAD. The experience of having IAD was characterised by the theme ‘debilitating and desperate for relief’ and was experienced as a particularly painful, itching and burning condition that left patients distressed and irritable.

Conclusion:

Patients with incontinence in acute settings required further education from health professionals to reduce the stigma of incontinence, and provide further support to manage their incontinence. Health professionals can also play a key role in educating patients about the risks of developing IAD and how it can be prevented.
İHLASÎ’NİN ŞİİRLERİNDE ELEŞTİRİ
Authors: Çetin İsmet
Published: August 2024

Eleştiri kavramı, eserlerin incelenmesi, eser hakkında bir kanaatin oluşması, karara varılması anlamlarına gelir. Bir şeyi değerlendirmek anlamına gelen eleştiri, edebi eserler çerçevesinde anlamlandırıldığında edebi eserin değeri, benzerleri arasındaki farklılıkları, oluşturuldukları dönem ve özellikleri ile ilişkisi gibi geniş bir alanı kapsar. Edebi eser eleştirisi yanında edebi eserin eleştirisini de dikkate almak gerek. Edebi eserler, oluştukları dönemin özelliklerini yansıtması bakımından eser sahibinin olduğu kadar eser sahibinin yaşadığı ortam hakkında bilgileri de aktarır. Eser sahibi, eserinde yaşadığı dönemi, dönemin özellikleri aktarırken çeşitli yolları kullanır. Yergi, hiciv, alaya almak, komik duruma düşürmekle dönemini eleştiren edebi eser sahibi, kullandığı tarza göre de farklı söyleyiş tercih eder.
İhlasî, halk şairi kimliğiyle içinde yaşadığı toplumun anlatır. Gözlemlerini bilgi ve tecrübeleriyle bir araya getirip, şiirleri aracılığıyla topluma aktarır. Şair, yaşadığı Türkiye’yi, Türklerin problemlerini, problemlerin nedenlerini irdeler. Bunları aktarırken oldukça acımasız davranır ve davranışlarını kullandığı sert ifadelerle gösterir. Kimi zaman toplumun bir ferdi olarak kendini, dolayısıyla toplumu suçlar, kimi zaman kötümser duygu ile içe kapanır, kimi zaman saldırgan bir tavır takınır.
BİR MASAL ARAŞTIRICISININ DÜNÜ, BUGÜNÜ VE YARINI
Authors: Sakaoğlu Saim
Published: August 2024

Genç bir üniversite öğretim elemanı olarak 56 yıl kadar önce (1968) başladığımız profesyonel masal araştırıcılığımızın sisler arasından zorla çekip çıkarabildiğimiz bir de ön dönemi olmalıdır. Bu konuya her eğilişimizde bu ön dönem biraz daha açıklığa kavuşmaktadır. Onun için hayattaki en eski masal araştırıcısı olarak dününü biraz daha zorlamalı, bulunabilecek bilgi kırıntılarını da bilim dünyasına sunmalıyız. Biz de kendi çalışmalarımızı bazı zaman dilimlerine ayırarak ele almayı uygun bulduk Ancak bu dilimlerden hiç ses getiremeyenlerin de olacağı unutulmamalıdır. Bunca yılın araştırıcısı olarak hayatımızda masal kavramının hiç yerinin olmadığı dönemi de unutmamamız gerekecektir. Bu alanda yayımladığımız ondan fazla masal kitabı hemen hemen masal dünyamızı okuyucularımıza bütün yönleriyle tanıtacaktır. Bu çalışmalarımız aynı zamanda Türk masal araştırıcılığının bir yere kadar ana hatlarını da ortaya koymaktadır. Masal konusunda ilk doktora çalışmasının tarafımızdan yapılmış olması, onlarca öğrencimize lisans, yüksek lisans ve doktora tezi hazırlatmamızın da önünü açmıştır, Dünkü masal araştırıcılığı ile günümüzün masal araştırıcılığı arasında elbette önemli farklılıkların olacağı kaçınılmazdır. Siz de ilerleyen zaman içinde bu yeniliklere ayak uydurmaya çalışacaksınız. Ancak masalı bekleyen bazı tehlikelerin olacağı da unutulmamalıdır. Görünüşte eğitim ve eğlendirme amaçlarına yönelik olarak hazırmış gibi görünse de ticari amaçlarla yayımlandığını bildiğimiz pek çok yayın masalın ruhunu incitmektedir. Masaldan daha çok hikâye yazarcasına ancak masal motifleri ile süslenilen kitapların mutlaka dikkate alınması gerekecektir. Büyüklerin okuyacağı masallar elbette bunlara göre daha farklı özelliklere sahip olacağından bu alanda tehlikeden söz edilemez.
Estratégias sustentáveis nas Denominações de Origem: Conexão entre IG e ODS
Authors: Vitorino Sidney Lincoln , Avrichir Ilan
Published: August 2024

Indicações Geográficas (IG) são ferramentas estratégicas coletivas de valorização dos produtos. São regidas por regras e definições expressas em Cadernos de Especificações Técnicas (CET). Já as Denominações de Origem (DO) são IG que designam produtos ou serviço cujas características se devem essencialmente ao meio geográfico. O artigo investiga se seria papel do Instituto Nacional de Proteção Industrial (INPI), o órgão responsável pela aprovação dos CET, ter um papel atuante com relação à presença de compromisso das DOS com as ODS. Assim, o objetivo geral é verificar se os CET das DO brasileiras trazem frases que podem ser lidas como referências a ODS da Agenda 2030. Para tanto, lançou-se mão da análise de conteúdo dos CET das DO. Quantos aos resultados, observou-se que as referências feitas pelos CET das DO, quando existem, são em boa parte vagas ou restringem-se a se comprometer com o cumprimento de legislação. Diante disso, sugere-se dar continuidade, por meio de pesquisas, à discussão que se afigura como não tendo sido ainda realizada.
Drivers e barreiras à implementação da Agenda 2030 em uma universidade estadual paranaense (Brasil): desenvolvimento regional e sustentável em perspectiva
Authors: Christ Gabriela Daiana , Piffer Moacir , Alves Lucir Reinaldo , Pauli Jandir
Published: August 2024

A Agenda 2030 para o desenvolvimento sustentável chama a atenção para oportunidades de aprendizagem ao longo de seu processo de implementação. Nesse cenário, estão as instituições de ensino superior (IES). Como elas estão agindo para sua implementação é uma questão em aberto. Partindo de tal perspectiva, o objetivo do presente trabalho é compreender a percepção da gestão da Unioeste quanto aos drivers e barreiras na implementação da Agenda 2030 na instituição. Este estudo de caso único de abordagem qualitativa utilizou-se de análise de conteúdo a partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas com quatorze gestores em função de liderança na IES. Como resultado, identificaram-se dez drivers e quatorze barreiras. Na prática, esta pesquisa poderá apoiar a tomada de decisão no que toca à gestão da sustentabilidade na Universidade. Conclui-se que os estudos não se esgotam, uma vez que ainda existe a necessidade de expansão de pesquisas acerca da temática.
Simultaneous phase aberration compensation and denoising for quantitative phase imaging in digital holographic microscopy with deep learning
Authors: Li Dangjuan , Li Zhaoxin , Ding Wenxin , Wu Shenjiang , Zhao Baoyin , Wang Fan , Guo Rongli
Published: August 2024

In digital holographic microscopy, the quantitative phase image suffers from phase aberrations and coherent noises. To solve these problems, two independent steps are applied sequentially in the reconstruction procedure to compensate for the phase aberrations and denoising. Here we demonstrate for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, that the reconstruction process can be simplified by replacing the two step methods with a deep learning-based algorithm. A convolutional neural network is trained simultaneously for phase aberration correction and denoising from an only wrapped phase map. In order to train the network, a database consists of massive wrapped phase maps as input, and noise-free sample phase maps as labels are constructed. The generated wrapped phase maps include a variety of phase aberrations and faithful coherent noises that are reconstructed from a practical apparatus. The trained network is applied to correct phase aberrations and denoise of both simulated and experimental data for the quantitative phase image. It exhibits excellent performance with output comparable to that reconstructed from the double exposure method for phase aberration correction followed with block-matching and 3D filtering for denoising, while outperforming other conventional two step methods.