bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep learning-based prediction of major arrhythmic events in dilated cardiomyopathy: A proof of concept study
Authors: Corianò Mattia , Lanera Corrado , De Michieli Laura , Perazzolo Marra Martina , Iliceto Sabino , Gregori Dario , Tona Francesco
Published: February 2024

Prediction of major arrhythmic events (MAEs) in dilated cardiomyopathy represents an unmet clinical goal. Computational models and artificial intelligence (AI) are new technological tools that could offer a significant improvement in our ability to predict MAEs. In this proof-of-concept study, we propose a deep learning (DL)-based model, which we termed Deep ARrhythmic Prevention in dilated cardiomyopathy (DARP-D), built using multidimensional cardiac magnetic resonance data (cine videos and hypervideos and LGE images and hyperimages) and clinical covariates, aimed at predicting and tracking an individual patient’s risk curve of MAEs (including sudden cardiac death, cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation, sustained ventricular tachycardia lasting ≥30 s or causing haemodynamic collapse in <30 s, appropriate implantable cardiac defibrillator intervention) over time. The model was trained and validated in 70% of a sample of 154 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and tested in the remaining 30%. DARP-D achieved a 95% CI in Harrell’s C concordance indices of 0.12–0.68 on the test set. We demonstrate that our DL approach is feasible and represents a novelty in the field of arrhythmic risk prediction in dilated cardiomyopathy, able to analyze cardiac motion, tissue characteristics, and baseline covariates to predict an individual patient’s risk curve of major arrhythmic events. However, the low number of patients, MAEs and epoch of training make the model a promising prototype but not ready for clinical usage. Further research is needed to improve, stabilize and validate the performance of the DARP-D to convert it from an AI experiment to a daily used tool.
Evaluation of ambivalent sexism in Colombia and validation of the ASI and AMI brief scales
Authors: Martínez-Baquero Lizeth Cristina , Vallejo-Medina Pablo
Published: February 2024

Sexism has implications for people’s physical and mental health. Thus, understanding sexism and its prevalence is key to understanding the phenomenon. In the current study, 717 Colombian men and women completed the brief scales of Ambivalent Sexism toward women and men and the Gender Identity Scale. The assessment was conducted using a web-based method. Both scales, as expected, were two-dimensional. Reliability ranged from .83 to .88. Moderate and high correlations were observed with the Gender Identity Scale. Men showed higher levels of hostile and benevolent sexism toward women and benevolent sexism toward men. It was also found that the higher the level of education, the lower the rates of sexism toward men and women. The brief scales were valid and reliable for measuring hostile and benevolent sexism in Colombia.
Development of an intervention for reducing infant bathing frequency
Authors: Goldsmith Lucy P. , Perkin Michael R. , Wahlich Charlotte , Chandrasekaran Lakshmi , Cornelius Victoria , Boyle Robert J. , Flohr Carsten , Roberts Amanda , Willis Kathryn , Ussher Michael
Published: February 2024

Background

Bathing babies less frequently and intensively in the first six months of life may prevent eczema, but this has not yet been definitively tested in a randomised controlled trial. Such a trial would require evidence-based support to help parents engage with a minimal bathing routine. The present study reports the development of this support.

Methods

We adopted a four-stage design process: (i) Pregnant women and their families (n = 31) were interviewed to ascertain key barriers and facilitators towards following the minimal bathing intervention. (ii) These barriers and facilitators were mapped to behaviour change techniques, focussing on the intervention types of education, persuasion and environmental restructuring, alongside appropriate modes of delivery, and prototype intervention materials were developed. (iii) We iteratively refined these materials in a workshop with multidisciplinary experts and Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) representatives (n = 13) and an (iv) intervention walkthrough with families (n = 5). The design process was informed by the Behaviour Change Wheel, Theoretical framework of acceptability and the Template for intervention description and replication.

Results

Social influences and motivational factors are likely to influence both uptake and adherence to the intervention. Anticipated emotional reward from participating in research for the benefit of others was indicated to be a strong facilitator for intervention uptake. Alternatives to bathing, having fun with the baby and the night-time routine, alongside family support, were notable facilitators suggested to aid adherence to the intervention. Barriers included hygiene concerns and anticipated negative social appraisal. Barriers and facilitators were mapped to thirty-six behaviour change techniques, focussing on the intervention types of education, persuasion and environmental restructuring, all of which were embedded into the package of support. The prototype intervention materials received positive feedback from the expert workshop and study walkthrough with families. The final package of support comprises printed and digital prompts and cues, a study booklet, video, and digital tool for self-monitoring.

Conclusions

The intervention design process incorporated the ‘real world’ views and experiences of families, experts and PPIE representatives, alongside criteria for designing behavioural interventions. The effectiveness of the package of support will be tested in a feasibility trial and embedded process evaluation.
Low blank sampling method for measurement of the nitrogen isotopic composition of atmospheric NOx
Authors: Kamezaki Kazuki , Maeda Takahisa , Ishidoya Shigeyuki , Tsukasaki Ayumi , Murayama Shohei , Kaneyasu Naoki
Published: February 2024

The nitrogen isotopic composition of nitrogen oxide (NOx) is useful for estimating its sources and sinks. Several methods have been developed to convert atmospheric nitric oxide (NO) and/or nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to nitrites and/or nitrates for collection. However, the collection efficiency and blanks are poorly evaluated for many collection methods. Here, we present a method for collecting ambient NOx (NO and NO2 simultaneously) with over 90% efficiency collection of NOx and low blank (approximately 0.5 μM) using a 3 wt% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and 0.5 M sodium hydride (NaOH) solution. The 1σ uncertainty of the nitrogen isotopic composition was ± 1.2 ‰. The advantages of this method include its portability, simplicity, and the ability to collect the required amount of sample to analyze the nitrogen isotopic composition of ambient NOx in a short period of time. Using this method, we observed the nitrogen isotopic compositions of NOx at the Tsukuba and Yoyogi sites in Japan. The averaged δ15N(NOx) value and standard deviation (1σ) in the Yoyogi site was (−2.7 ± 1.8) ‰ and in the Tsukuba site was (−1.7 ± 0.9) ‰ during the sampling period. The main NOx source appears to be the vehicle exhaust in the two sites.
PrestoCell: A persistence-based clustering approach for rapid and robust segmentation of cellular morphology in three-dimensional data
Authors: Wu Yue , Brust-Mascher Ingrid , Gareau Melanie G. , De Loera Jesus A. , Reardon Colin
Published: February 2024

Light microscopy methods have continued to advance allowing for unprecedented analysis of various cell types in tissues including the brain. Although the functional state of some cell types such as microglia can be determined by morphometric analysis, techniques to perform robust, quick, and accurate measurements have not kept pace with the amount of imaging data that can now be generated. Most of these image segmentation tools are further burdened by an inability to assess structures in three-dimensions. Despite the rise of machine learning techniques, the nature of some biological structures prevents the training of several current day implementations. Here we present PrestoCell, a novel use of persistence-based clustering to segment cells in light microscopy images, as a customized Python-based tool that leverages the free multidimensional image viewer Napari. In evaluating and comparing PrestoCell to several existing tools, including 3DMorph, Omipose, and Imaris, we demonstrate that PrestoCell produces image segmentations that rival these solutions. In particular, our use of cell nuclei information resulted in the ability to correctly segment individual cells that were interacting with one another to increase accuracy. These benefits are in addition to the simplified graphically based user refinement of cell masks that does not require expensive commercial software licenses. We further demonstrate that PrestoCell can complete image segmentation in large samples from light sheet microscopy, allowing quantitative analysis of these large datasets. As an open-source program that leverages freely available visualization software, with minimum computer requirements, we believe that PrestoCell can significantly increase the ability of users without data or computer science expertise to perform complex image analysis.
Fiscal agricultural expenditures’ impact on sustainable agricultural economic development: Dynamic marginal effects and impact mechanism
Authors: Zhang Shengfang , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: February 2024

Sustainable agricultural economic development is the core task for achieving the objective of rural revitalization strategy in China, which cannot be separated from the support and guidance of fiscal policy, and agricultural industry integration is a key path for the fiscal promotion of sustainable agricultural economic development. This paper systematically examines the interaction mechanism between fiscal agricultural expenditures and sustainable agricultural economic development by using 31 provincial panel data in China from 2008 to 2020 and adopting a two-way fixed effect model, a panel quantile model, and a mediating effect model, respectively. The results show that the impact of fiscal agricultural expenditures on sustainable agricultural economic development is significantly positive, and appears a dynamic increasing trend with the agricultural development stage upgrading. Moreover, heterogeneity analysis shows that the effect of fiscal agricultural expenditures is more obvious for the samples in the central region and with a high share of primary industry. Further, a mediating effect test finds that agricultural industry integration plays a mediating mechanism between fiscal agricultural expenditures and sustainable agricultural economic development. Therefore, this paper proposes constructing a long-term investment mechanism for fiscal agricultural expenditures, formulating differentiated fiscal support policies for agriculture, and prioritizing support for agricultural industry integration, which provides theoretical support and policy inspiration for promoting sustainable agricultural economic development.
The effect of modifier and a water-soluble fertilizer on two forages grown in saline-alkaline soil
Authors: Zhao Shengchen , Wang Dapeng , Li Yunhui , Wang Wei , Wang Jihong , Chang Haibo , Yang Jingmin
Published: February 2024

Saline-alkali soil significantly impairs crop growth. This research employs the impacts of the modifier and water-soluble fertilizer, as well as their interaction, on the root systems of alfalfa and leymus chinensis in saline-alkali soil. The results exhibit that the hydrochar source modifier effectively enhances the root growth of both forage species. There are certain improvements in the root growth indicators of both crops at a dosage of 20 g/kg. Root enzyme activity and rhizosphere soil enzyme activity are enhanced in alfalfa, showing significant improvements in the first planting compared to the second planting. The application of water-soluble fertilizers also promotes root growth and root dehydrogenase activity. The root dehydrogenase activity of alfalfa and leymus chinensis are enhanced 62.18% and 10.15% in first planting than that of blank, respectively. Additionally, the two-factor variance analysis revealed a correlation between rhizosphere soil enzyme activity and changes in root traits. Higher rhizosphere soil enzyme activity is observed in conjunction with better root growth. The combined application of a modifier and water-soluble fertilizer has demonstrated a significant interaction effect on various aspects of the first planting of alfalfa and leymus chinensis. Moreover, the combined application of the modifier and water-soluble fertilizer has yielded superior results when compared to the individual application of either the modifier or the water-soluble fertilizer alone. This combined approach has proven effective in improving saline-alkali soil conditions and promoting crop growth in such challenging environments.
Dynamical exploration of optical soliton solutions for M-fractional Paraxial wave equation
Authors: Bashar Md. Habibul , Ghosh Supta , Rahman M. M.
Published: February 2024

This work explores diverse novel soliton solutions due to fractional derivative, dispersive, and nonlinearity effects for the nonlinear time M-fractional paraxial wave equation. The advanced exp [-φ(ξ)] expansion method integrates the nonlinear M-fractional Paraxial wave equation for achieving creative solitonic and traveling wave envelopes to reconnoiter such dynamics. As a result, trigonometric and hyperbolic solutions have been found via the proposed method. Under the conditions of the constraint, fruitful solutions are gained and verified with the use of the symbolic software Maple 18. For any chosen set of the allowed parameters 3D, 2D and density plots illustrate, this inquisition achieved kink shape, the collision of kink type and rogue wave, periodic rogue wave, some distinct singular periodic soliton waves for time M-fractional Paraxial wave equation. As certain nonlinear effects cancel out dispersion effects, optical solitons typically can travel great distances without dissipating. We have constructed reasonable soliton solutions and managed the actual meaning of the acquired solutions of action by characterizing the particular advantages of the summarized parameters by the portrayal of figures and by interpreting the physical occurrences. New precise voyaging wave configurations are obtained using symbolic computation and the previously described methodologies. However, the movement role of the waves is explored, and the modulation instability analysis is used to describe the stability of waves in a dispersive fashion of the obtained solutions, confirming that all created solutions are precise and stable.
Endorsements of five reporting guidelines for biomedical research by journals of prominent publishers
Authors: Wang Peiling , Wolfram Dietmar , Gilbert Emrie
Published: February 2024

Biomedical research reporting guidelines provide a framework by which journal editors and the researchers who conduct studies can ensure that the reported research is both complete and transparent. With more than 16 different guidelines for the 11 major study types of medical and health research, authors need to be familiar with journal reporting standards. To assess the current endorsements of reporting guidelines for biomedical and health research, this study examined the instructions for authors (IFAs) of 559 biomedical journals by 11 prominent publishers that publish original research or systematic reviews/meta-analyses. Data from the above original sources were cleaned and restructured, and analyzed in a database and text miner. Each journal’s instructions or information for authors were examined to code if any of five prominent reporting guidelines were mentioned and what form the guideline adherence demonstration took. Seventeen journals published the reporting guidelines. Four of the five reporting guidelines listed journals as endorsers. For journals with open peer review reports, a sample of journals and peer reviews was analyzed for mention of adherence to reporting guidelines. The endorsement of research guidelines by publishers and their associated journals is inconsistent for some publishers, with only a small number of journals endorsing relevant guidelines. Based on the analysis of open peer reviews, there is evidence that some reviewers check the adherence to the endorsed reporting guidelines. Currently, there is no universal endorsement of reporting guidelines by publishers nor ways of demonstrating adherence to guidelines. Journals may not directly inform authors of their guideline endorsements, making it more difficult for authors to adhere to endorsed guidelines. Suggestions derived from the findings are provided for authors, journals, and reporting guidelines to ensure increased adequate use of endorsed reporting guidelines.
Ongoing evolution of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis lactate dehydrogenase reveals the pleiotropic effects of bacterial adaption to host pressure
Authors: Stanley Sydney , Wang Xin , Liu Qingyun , Kwon Young Yon , Frey Abigail M. , Hicks Nathan D. , Vickers Andrew J. , Hui Sheng , Fortune Sarah M.
Published: February 2024

The bacterial determinants that facilitate Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) adaptation to the human host environment are poorly characterized. We have sought to decipher the pressures facing the bacterium in vivo by assessing Mtb genes that are under positive selection in clinical isolates. One of the strongest targets of selection in the Mtb genome is lldD2, which encodes a quinone-dependent L-lactate dehydrogenase (LldD2) that catalyzes the oxidation of lactate to pyruvate. Lactate accumulation is a salient feature of the intracellular environment during infection and lldD2 is essential for Mtb growth in macrophages. We determined the extent of lldD2 variation across a set of global clinical isolates and defined how prevalent mutations modulate Mtb fitness. We show the stepwise nature of lldD2 evolution that occurs as a result of ongoing lldD2 selection in the background of ancestral lineage-defining mutations and demonstrate that the genetic evolution of lldD2 additively augments Mtb growth in lactate. Using quinone-dependent antibiotic susceptibility as a functional reporter, we also find that the evolved lldD2 mutations functionally increase the quinone-dependent activity of LldD2. Using 13C-lactate metabolic flux tracing, we find that lldD2 is necessary for robust incorporation of lactate into central carbon metabolism. In the absence of lldD2, label preferentially accumulates in dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P) and is associated with a discernible growth defect, providing experimental evidence for accrued lactate toxicity via the deleterious buildup of sugar phosphates. The evolved lldD2 variants increase lactate incorporation to pyruvate while altering triose phosphate flux, suggesting both an anaplerotic and detoxification benefit to lldD2 evolution. We further show that the mycobacterial cell is transcriptionally sensitive to the changes associated with altered lldD2 activity which affect the expression of genes involved in cell wall lipid metabolism and the ESX- 1 virulence system. Together, these data illustrate a multifunctional role of LldD2 that provides context for the selective advantage of lldD2 mutations in adapting to host stress.
Imagined possibilities and bodily feelings embedded in personal fashion archives
Authors: Robinson Todd
Published: February 2024

This article examines the significance of the body and its sensory and embodied aspects associated with a historical milieu and set of practices associated with ‘rave’ subculture and its relationship to fashion creativity. It focuses on a personal fashion archive that documents menswear designed in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Using an autoethnographic approach, the study investigates how the design of the garments in the archive was shaped by ways of experiencing and understanding the body that integrated the embodied experiences of moving and dancing with electronic music, the embodied experience of dressing, and the embodied experiences of designing men’s fashion in the years that followed. While rave and electronic dance music cultures received considerable scholarly attention in the mid- to late 1990s, less attention was devoted to men’s fashion and the interaction between fashion design, embodied experience and the rave sensoria. Moreover, while this study lays at the intersection rave and electronic dance music culture, fashion and design, all of which are understood to have European and North American origins, the article considers the way those practices took a unique shape within an Australian context. The contribution aims to provide insight into fashion as part of situated and embodied practices, that take place in local milieus, and the way fashion creativity can be understood not as surface ‘ripples’ moving out from global fashion centres or trickle-down versions of ‘authentic’ fashion developed elsewhere, but as fashion creativity, shaped by global forces, energies, and technologies, and embodied and enacted via local manifestations.
Small Bowel Perforation Due to an Unusual Foreign Body
Authors: Anand Kamalam  , Sugatri Peruka  , Prathap Chouhan M.  , Pratyusha Seelam  , Madiha Taher
Published: February 2024

Gastrointestinal perforation is one of the most common causes of acute abdomen presenting to the casualty. However, gastrointestinal perforation due to ingestion of foreign body is rare and is usually encountered in children, psychiatric patients and in alcoholics. Most of the foreign bodies pass through the GI tract without any complications. Only about 1% are known to cause complications such as perforation. Fish or chicken bones, dentures, toy parts, coins, toothpicks are the most commonly encountered foreign bodies. In this report, we present a case of a 60-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with acute abdomen secondary to ingestion of an unusual foreign body that lead to perforation and underwent exploratory laparotomy for removal of the foreign body.

Gastrointestinal perforation is one of the most common causes of acute abdomen presenting to the casualty that needs a timely surgical intervention.[1] Important sites of gastrointestinal perforation are stomach, duodenum, small bowel (jejunum, small intestine), appendix, colon and rectum.

The most common causes of gastrointestinal perforation include peptic ulcer disease, diverticulitis, carcinomas, IBD, ischemia of bowel wall and infrequently foreign bodies.[2]

Foreign body ingestion as seen in children is unintentional and can be deliberate in psychiatric patients.[3] In general, many of these foreign bodies travel through the gastrointestinal tract without causing complications. Only about 1% cases of ingested foreign bodies cause complications such as hollow viscus obstruction and/ or perforation which are usually life threatening and have poorer outcomes if diagnosis is delayed.[4,5] CT is the imaging tool of choice. Such conditions require immediate surgical intervention such as exploratory laparotomy or laparoscopic or endoscopic removal can be attempted in case of stomach or duodenal foreign bodies.

Here in the following case report, we present an atypical case who arrived at the emergency room with acute abdomen following a foreign body consumption and underwent exploratory laparotomy for retrieval of foreign body.
Myriad Presentation of Adenocarcinoma Lung
Authors: Keerthana Priya P.  , Ghanshyam Verma  , Sabarinath Ravichandar  , Elen Ann Abraham  , Santhosh Sampath
Published: February 2024

Lung adenocarcinoma is the leading cause of cancer related deaths worldwide. The causes for adenocarcinoma include smoking, air pollution, family history, occupational exposure, silica, asbestos, diesel fumes, and heavy metals. Smoking increases lung cancer risk by 5- to 10 fold with a clear dose–response relationship and environmental tobacco smoke among non-smokers increases lung cancer risk by about 20 %.[1] Lung cancers can be classified into two types based on histology as small cell carcinoma and non-small cell carcinoma. Adenocarcinoma falls under non-small cell carcinoma. Non-small cell carcinoma is further classified into adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma. Polyserositis is a condition where there is an inflammation of serous membranes with effusion. Most common sites are pleura and pericardium presenting with symptoms like chest pain, and shortness of breath.[2] The causes include idiopathic, infectious disease like tuberculosis, autoimmune conditions like SLE, and neoplasm. Neoplasm is the most common cause (nearly one-third of cases). Autoimmune disease like Adult-onset Still's disease presents with cardiac and pulmonary involvement pleural effusion, pericarditis and serositis.[3] A possible manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus is extensive serous involvement like pericardial effusion and pleural effusion.[4] In this case report, we discuss the presentation of adenocarcinoma and pericardial effusion with liver metastasis in a 74-year-old female.
Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica e Adesão Terapêutica na Atenção Primária: Relato de Experiência
Authors: Pereira Vieira Márcio Murilo , Nunes Alves de Sousa Milena
Published: February 2024

O objetivo do presente estudo foi relatar a experiência vivenciada sobre a baixa adesão terapêutica entre pacientes hipertensos em uma unidade básica de saúde na cidade de Patos, Paraíba, bem como a adoção de estratégias de intervenção. Método: Como ferramenta metodológica, foi utilizado o Arco de Maguerez, que proporciona a observação e solução de problemas existentes no meio até a aplicação na realidade de hipóteses de soluções. Resultados: Foi realizado um estudo do tipo relato de experiência em uma unidade básica de saúde, onde foi abordado acerca de estratégias com foco nas melhorias na adesão terapêutica. Nas reuniões, foram definidas estratégias em conjunto com a equipe e aplicadas entre os pacientes hipertensos, tais como medidas de educação em saúde, incentivo à participação nas consultas de rotina com seguimento individualizado. Conclusão: Percebeu-se que um maior número de pacientes demonstrou interesse e participação, e foram esclarecidas dúvidas sobre a doença e suas possíveis complicações, além de um maior comparecimento às consultas de rotina para acompanhamento na unidade e realização frequente de visitas domiciliares pela equipe, contribuindo para a adesão terapêutica.
Preclinical diagnostics of von Hippel-Lindau syndrome in a child
Authors: Malievskiy O. A. , Malievskaya R. I. , Malievskiy V. A. , Tulpakov A. N.
Published: February 2024

The description of the child aged 5 months with the von Hippel-Lindau syndrome without any manifestations of this syndrome is presented. The reason for the molecular genetic examination was the presence of cases of this syndrome in the family (mother and sister). The heterozygous variant c.355T>C p.F119L was found in the VHL gene. An objective examination revealed no pathology. A comprehensive laboratory and instrumental examination aimed at searching for components of the von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, including a blood test for metanephrines and normetanephrines, ultrasound of the abdominal organs, examination of the fundus, also did not reveal any abnormalities. Given the results of molecular genetic diagnosis, the child remains under observation and will undergo regular examinations to identify components of the von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, including blood/urine tests for normetanephrines.
Current views on the treatment of insulinoma
Authors: Chernykh T. M. , Malyugin D. A. , Khachaturov M. V. , Shefer A. A. , Zoloedov V. I.
Published: February 2024

Relevance: Insulinoma is the most common hormonally active neuroendocrine tumor (NET) of the pancreas. In recent years, there has been a trend towards an increase in the incidence of NET especially insulinoma.

Aim: Summarizing and analyzing current data on various approaches to the treatment of insulinoma. Our review includes a comprehensive assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of currently available insulinoma treatment methods in comparison with past experience, as well as a review of promising methods that are not currently widely used.

Materials and methods: Analysis of literature from such databases as scientific electronic library elibrary.ru, Pubmed, Google Scholar, MedLine, Scopus and Web of Science.

Results: The most common treatment for insulinoma is surgery. For patients with high operative risk, alternative methods such as alcohol ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and tumor embolization may be used. Medications include the use of somatostatin analogues, diazoxide. The literature describes the potential benefit of the use of beta-blockers, phenytoin, glucagon, however, in clinical trials, these drugs have not demonstrated a significant effect. For the treatment of malignant and metastatically advanced insulinoma, targeted therapy (primarily Everolimus), chemotherapy, as well as embolization (including chemoembolization, radioembolization), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation and cryoablation, ultrasound ablation (HIFU), laser ablation, brachytherapy, irreversible electroporation are used.

Conclusion: The study of new drugs is an important task for scientists, among medications the most promising are new generations of somatostatin analogues, targeted drugs and chemotherapy drugs. The rare frequency of insulinoma makes it difficult to conduct randomized controlled trials and prospective studies. That is why physicians and scientists need to maintain close contacts with each other and take into account the experience of treating each patient with such disease, which will help develop effective treatment algorithms in the future.
Comparative analysis of bone complications/manifestations in sporadic and MEN1-related primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Pylina S. V. , Eremkina A. K. , Elfimova A. R. , Gorbacheva A. M. , Mokrysheva N. G.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) — is a rare syndrome with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern caused by a mutation in the tumor suppressor gene (MEN1). Parathyroid involvement is the most common MEN1 manifestation resulting in primary hyperparathyroidism (mPHPT). Data on the prevalence and structure of bone disease in mPHPT compared to sporadic one (sPHPT) are often incomplete and contradictory.

AIM: The purpose of this study was to compare the severity of bone involvement between mPHPT and sPHPT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single-center retrospective study was conducted among young patients in the active phase of PHPT and without prior parathyroidectomy in anamnesis. The analysis included the main parameters of calcium-phosphorus metabolism, bone remodeling markers, as well as an assessment of disease complications. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at sites of lumbar spine, femur and radius. Trabecular bone score (TBS) was applied to estimate trabecular microarchitecture. All patients included in the study underwent genetic testing.

RESULTS: Group 1 (mPHPT) included 26 patients, and group 2 (sSHPT) included 30 age-matched patients: the median age in group 1 was 34.5 years [25; 39], in group 2 — 30.5 years [28; 36], (p=0.439, U-test). Within group 1, the subgroup 1A (n=21) was formed with patients without other hormone-produced neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) in the gastrointestinal tract (GI) and the anterior pituitary gland. The duration of PHPT was comparable in both groups: mPHPT — 1 year [0; 3] versus sPHPT — 1 year [0; 1], (p=0.533, U-test). There were no differences in the main parameters of calcium-phosphorus metabolism, as well as in the prevalence of kidney complications. In the mPHPT group, bone abnormalities were observed significantly more often compared to sPHPT: 54 vs 10% (p=<0.001; F-test). Statistically significant differences were revealed both in BMD and in Z-score values of the femoral neck and total hip, which were lower in the mPHPT group. These differences remained significant when comparing subgroup 1A with sPHPT.

CONCLUSION: MEN1-associated PHPT may be accompanied by a more severe decrease in BMD in the femoral neck and total hip compared to sPHPT regardless of the other hormone-producing NEN. Clarifying the role of mutation in the MEN1 gene in these processes requires further study.
Exploring the Interplay of Lifewide Learning, Migration, and Social Network Sites in the Postdigital Field of Action
Authors: López García Yolanda
Published: February 2024

Lifewide learning encompasses all forms of learning and personal development in formal, non-formal and informal modalities. This article discusses the relationship between Lifewide Learning, Social Network Sites (SNSs) and Migration by reflecting on the role of SNSs as a resource for informal learning in the context of migration and its impact on the postdigital field of action. This article argues that SNSs are fields of action that are ubiquitously used and are deeply interwoven in everyday life, especially for people who wish to/or have already relocated. In these fields of action, interaction, emotional support and constant learning take place, impacting the lives and experiences of people undergoing migration. Therefore, this article considers that SNSs are highly relevant resources for learning 'informally', where sharing personal experiences not only provides concrete information regarding a situation but perhaps, more importantly, people who share or seek information find companionship in the realization that they are not alone with their doubts or situations in their new location.
Buddy-Culture Goes Viral
Authors: Conti Luisa , Darmanin Janice , Fenech Christine , Räthel Klara
Published: February 2024

In this chapter, Conti, Darmanin, Fenech, and Räthel, by combining insights from a systematic literature review on peer buddy systems with empirical data from German initiatives, outline characteristics and goals of the buddy approach. Offering recommendations for diverse educational contexts, including formal, informal, and non-formal settings, the authors introduce the innovative hybrid concept from the Horizon 2020 project KIDS4ALLL. The chapter emphasizes the strategic role of the buddy system in promoting social inclusion, with a focus on its application for the integration of migrant youth.
Öffentliche Kunstförderung
Authors: Duhnkrack Justus
Published: February 2024

Öffentliche Kunstförderung polarisiert und die gesellschaftliche Debatte darüber wird zumeist auf politische Schlagworte verkürzt. Justus Duhnkrack analysiert das multipolare Interessengeflecht in der öffentlichen Kunstförderung und enthüllt den Verteilungskonflikt, den Gesetzgeber und Verwaltung regelmäßig zu bewältigen haben. Aufbauend auf der Auseinandersetzung mit grundlegenden ökonomischen, historischen und soziologischen Legitimationsansätzen legt er den rechtlichen Ordnungsrahmen dar und stellt politische Lenkungspotentiale sowie Stellschrauben des Interessenausgleichs heraus, wobei er Best-Practice-Standards für eine sachgerechte öffentliche Kunstförderung praxisnah erläutert.
Ibsen at the Theatrical Crossroads of Europe
Authors: Druta Gianina
Published: February 2024

While Ibsen's plays were seldom performed in Romania in the first half of the 20th century, historical sources highlight his strong impact on the national theatre practice. To address this contradiction, Gianina Druta approaches the reception of Ibsen in the Romanian theatre in the period 1894-1947, combining Digital Humanities and theatre historiography. This investigation of the European theatre culture and the way in which the foreign acting and staging traditions influenced the Romanian Ibsenites provides new insights into mechanisms of aesthetic transmission. Thus, this study presents a European theatre landscape whose unpredictability and uniqueness cannot be confined to essentialist interpretations.
First year and adjustment in university life: A qualitative study to determine the needs of first year university students
Authors: Avcı Dilek
Published: February 2024

This study was conducted to identify the adjustment needs of first-year university students during their transition to university. The first year at university is a time when students review and organize their needs, their expectations from the university, the quality of their communication with other students, academic and administrative staff, the rules and working methods of the new academic environment, and the personality traits that students bring to the university. In the first year, most university students have to deal with many stress factors such as economic difficulties, academic difficulties, loneliness and homesickness, and difficulties in establishing social relationships. Based on this information, this study aims to explore in depth the needs and experiences of first-year university students in Turkey. In this study, the case study model, which is one of the qualitative research methods, was used to determine the adjustment difficulties and first-year needs of first-year university students. The participants were asked 11 open-ended questions with a semi-structured interview form. Content analysis, which is a qualitative data analysis method, was conducted by creating themes and codes for the data obtained from the interviews. The findings from the research were discussed in the context of the literature.
DNA variants and population structure of Magelang ducks across generation
Authors: Febriana A. , Kurnianto E. , Sutopo S. , Lestari D. A. , Setiaji A. , Sugiharto S.
Published: February 2024

Magelang ducks (MD) are Indonesian local ducks and are known as dual-purpose type ducks which have high egg production, duck day production (DDP), and body weight size. Nowadays, the MD is selected to establish the pure line to advance the egg production trait in the Breeding and Rearing Center of Non-Ruminant Animals Banyubiru, Central Java. The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Dloop region, is highly polymorphic and could be used to analyze the population genetics. The present research aims to examine the impacts of continuous selection on population structure and genetic mutations on MD across two generations using the mtDNA D-loop region. Thirty-six blood samples from the second (G2) and third (G3) generations were examined using the sequencing method. The MEGA X and DnaSP software were applied to calculate the genetic diversity, genetic distance, and to generate a phylogenetic tree. The number of haplotypes (H), haplotype diversity (Hd), and Tajima's D are 26, 0.9746, and -1.46, respectively. The Fst value of MD is 0.156. The genetic distance among populations ranges from 0.0000 – 2.097. The UPGMA analysis constructs one clade in a phylogenetic tree between MD, Indonesian local Ducks, Indian Ducks, Vietnamese Ducks, and Chinese Ducks. The study found that the genetic variation and population structure did not significantly change between the second and third generations.
Gonadotropin supplementation improved in vitro developmental capacity of Egyptian goat oocytes by modulating mitochondrial distribution and utilization
Authors: AbdElkhalek A. S. , Soliman M. G. , El Naga N. A. A. , El Bahrawy K. A. , Kamel A. M. , Shedeed H. A. , Ghanem N.
Published: February 2024

Goat production in Mediterranean countries is economically and socially significant. The study investigated the impact of hCG supplementation on the in vitro maturation, fertilization, and mitochondrial activity of goat oocytes. In total, 2356 good cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were recovered from 476 freshly collected goat ovaries. Selected oocytes were incubated in IVM medium and supplemented with hCG at varying concentrations depending on the experimental group for 24 hours at 38.5 ° C, 5% CO2 and 95% humidity. The first group (G1) was allocated as a control group, while the G2 and G3 groups were supplemented with 10 and 20 IU/mL hCG, respectively. The maturation rate was calculated using Hoechst 33342 staining in addition to cumulus expansion and the first polar body extrusion rates. The fertilization rate was evaluated. Moreover, mitochondrial activity was assessed using Mito-Tracker fluorescent staining. The results indicated a higher rate (P≤0.05) of nuclear maturation in G3 (82.5%) than in G2 (65.9%) and the control group (64.8%). Furthermore, fertilization rate was significantly improved in G3 (18.7%) compared to G2 (10.6%) and the control group (9.5%). Notably, the percentage of diffuse patterns of mitochondrial distribution increased in G3 (73.3%) compared to G2 (13.3%) and the control group (6.7%). In the same trend, the fluorescent mitochondrial intensity was higher in G3 (95%) and G2 (89.2%) compared to the control group (79.9%). In conclusion, supplementing the IVM medium with 20 IU/mL of hCG improved goat oocytes' maturation and fertilization rates by modulating cytoplasmic distribution and promoting the utilization of oocyte mitochondria.
Vytvoří pravidla proti nedovolené státní podpoře nový daňový superorgán – aneb proč by měl případ Engie Global LNG Holding Sàrl, Engie Invest International SA, Engie SA v. Evropská komise (C-451/21 P) zajímat právníky na Visle a Vltavě?
Authors: Morawski Wojciech
Published: February 2024

In the Engie case, the Tribunal held that the issuance of a tax interpretation contrary to national law could create inadmissible state aid under EU law. Both Engie and Luxembourg challenged the judgment before the CJEU, pointing, inter alia, to an error in the Tribunal’s understanding of Luxembourg law. Advocate General Juliane Kokott, in her opinion in case C-451/21 P, argues that not every factually erroneous position of a national tax authority will create prohibited state aid. This will only be the case if there is a clear contradiction with national law and, at the same time, it is a deliberate action by the state authorities aimed at granting state aid. The article endorses this position.
Důkazní břemeno daňového subjektu při uplatňování daňového odpočtu na výzkum a vývoj
Authors: Vlková Gabriela
Published: February 2024

The basic principle which governs the taking of evidence within the tax proceeding is the obligation of the tax subject to prove the facts that the tax subject claimed or should have claimed in its tax filings. Act no. 280/2009 Coll., Tax Code, sets out in more detail conditions and rules for the taking of evidence either for the tax subject and also for the tax administrator. The object of this article is deeper analysis of the scope and limits of the burden of proof of the tax payer, especially when applying the tax credit for research and development activities in accordance with Sec. 34(4) et seq. of Act no. 586/1992 Coll., on income taxes. The current legislation lacks more detailed regulation of the scope and limits of the burden of proof. The application of the tax credit on research and development activities by the tax subjects is accompanied by countless problems, whereas one of the most significant problem is definition of the burden of proof of the tax payer and determination of the moment when the burden of proof is transferred back to the tax administrator. The article includes brief description of the legal framework of the process of taking of evidence, burden of proof and application of the tax credit on research and development activities, while the analysed topic is further analysed on the basis of selected court decisions. The scope and limits of the tax subject’s burden of proof when applying the tax credit on research and development activities are examined only from the perspective of the material side of the tax credit on research and development, in the area of eligibility of research and development activities, eligibility of vacation costs, and the evidence of costs incurred in relation with the realization of the project of research and development. With respect to the topic of the article, the methods of analysis, induction and description (limited use) are used in particular.
Effectiveness of Live-Streaming Tele-Exercise Intervention in Patients With Parkinson’s Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ha Jongmok , Park Jung Hyun , Lee Jun Seok , Kim Hye Young , Song Ji One , Yoo Jiwon , Ahn Jong Hyeon , Youn Jinyoung , Cho Jin Whan
Published: February 2024

Objective Exercise can improve both motor and nonmotor symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease (PwP), but there is an unmet need for accessible and sustainable exercise options. This study aimed to evaluate the effect, feasibility, and safety of a regularly performed live-streaming tele-exercise intervention for PwP.Methods A live-streaming exercise intervention for PwP was implemented twice a week for 12 weeks. We measured the motor and nonmotor symptom scores of the included patients before and after the intervention. Changes in clinical scores from baseline to postintervention were analyzed using paired t-tests. Factors associated with improvements in clinical scores and compliance were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation analysis.Results Fifty-six participants were enrolled in the study. There were significant improvements in Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)-anxiety (p = 0.007), HADS-depression (p < 0.001), Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) part III (p < 0.001), UPDRS total (p = 0.015), Hoehn and Yahr stage (p = 0.027), and Parkinson’s Disease Fatigue Scale-16 (p = 0.026) scores after the intervention. Improvements in motor symptoms were associated with improvements in mood symptoms and fatigue. Higher motor impairment at baseline was associated with a greater compliance rate and better postintervention composite motor and nonmotor outcomes (ΔUPDRS total score). Overall, the 12-week tele-exercise program was feasible and safe for PwP. No adverse events were reported. The overall adherence rate was 60.0% in our cohort, and 83.4% of the participants were able to participate in more than half of the exercise routines.Conclusion The live-streaming tele-exercise intervention is a safe, feasible, and effective nonpharmacological treatment option that can alleviate fatigue and improve mood and motor symptoms in PwP.
Mathematical modelling of COVID-19 dynamics using SVEAIQHR model
Authors: Venkatesh Ambalarajan , Rao Mallela Ankamma , Raj Murugadoss Prakash , Kumar Karuppusamy Arun , Vamsi D. K. K.
Published: February 2024

In this study, we formulate an eight-compartment mathematical model with vaccination as one of the compartments to analyze the dynamics of COVID-19 transmission. We examine the model’s qualitative properties, such as positivity and boundedness of solutions, and stability analysis of the illness-free equilibrium with respect to the basic reproduction number. We estimate ten significant parameters and also compute the magnitude of the basic reproduction number for India by fitting the proposed model to daily confirmed and cumulative confirmed COVID-19 cases in India. Sensitivity analysis with respect to basic reproduction number is conducted, and the main parameters that impact the widespread of disease are determined. We further extend this model to an optimal control problem by including four non-pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical intervention measures as control functions. Our numerical results show that the four control strategy has greater impact than the three control strategies, two control strategies, and single control strategies on reducing the dynamics of COVID-19 transmission.