bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convolutional neural network for IT lung diagnostics
Authors: Vishniakou U. A. , He T.
Published: May 2024

The subject of research is the use of voice processing technology of the patient in IT medicine. The purpose of the article is to develop a neural network for the diagnosis of lung diseases using sound analysis of the patient's voice. The study includes training of a neural network, development of a mobile program for collecting patient sound, extraction of sound characteristics on the server side, diagnostics of sound data using a trained neural network and return of diagnostic results to the mobile application program. A block diagram of voice processing from the source signal to the extraction of an audio file is presented, as an example, the extraction of MFCC and FBank functions is given. The structure of a convolutional neural network (CNN), which was trained on a standard dataset of respiratory diseases, is given. A simplified process of classification of breathing sounds necessary for the prediction of lung diseases is given. For practical implementation, the VGGish network is used in the Python programming environment, which has network parameters trained using a data set. The experiments were carried out on the Android service framework platform, which is divided into two parts: Android front-end and server. The interface part implements the interactive user function and is responsible for entering audio data. After downloading the audio, the server will pre-process the audio, and call CNN to classify the audio, the results are returned to an external module on the smartphone. The total accuracy of the model reached 83.6 %.
Acute Effects of Cannabigerol on Anxiety, Stress, and Mood: A Double-Blind, Placebo- Controlled, Crossover, Field Trial
Authors: Cuttler Carrie , Stueber Amanda , Cooper Ziva D. , Russo Ethan
Published: May 2024

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a phytocannabinoid increasing in popularity, with preclinical research indicating it has anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. However, there are no published clinical trials to corroborate these findings in humans. The primary objective of this study was to examine acute effects of CBG on anxiety, stress, and mood. Secondary objectives were to examine whether CBG produces subjective drug effects or motor and cognitive impairments. A double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over field trial was conducted with 34 healthy adult participants. Participants completed two sessions (with a one-week washout period) via Zoom. In each, they provided ratings of anxiety, stress, mood, and subjective drug effects prior to double-blind administration of 20mg hemp-derived CBG or placebo tincture (T0). These ratings were collected again after participants ingested the product and completed an online survey (T1), the Trier Social Stress Test (T2), a verbal memory test and the DRUID impairment app (T3). Relative to placebo, there was a significant main effect of CBG on overall reductions in anxiety as well as reductions in stress at T1. CBG also enhanced verbal memory relative to placebo. There was no evidence of subjective drug effects or impairment. CBG may represent a safe, novel option to manage stress and anxiety.
Incidental gallbladder cancer detected during laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Conversion to laparotomy is a feasible choice.
Authors: Zeng Di , Wang Yaoqun , Wen Ningyuan , Lu Jiong , Cheng Nansheng , Li Bei
Published: May 2024

Background
Re-resection is recommended for patients with incidental gallbladder carcinoma (iGBC) at T1b stage and above. It is unclear whether continuation of laparoscopic re-resection (CLR) for patients with intraoperatively detected iGBC (ID-iGBC) is more beneficial to short- and long-term clinical outcomes than with conversion to laparotomy re-resection (COR).
Methods
This single-centre, retrospective cohort study of patients with iGBC was conducted between June 2006 and August 2021. Patients who underwent immediate re-resection for T1b or higher ID-iGBC were enrolled. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to match the two groups (CLR and COR) of patients, and differences in clinical outcomes before and after matching were analyzed.
Result
A total of 102 patients with ID-iGBC were included in this study. 58 patients underwent CLR, and 44 underwent COR. After 1:1 propensity score matching, 56 patients were matched to all baselines. Patients in the COR group had a lower total postoperative complication rate, lower pulmonary infection rate, and shorter operation time than those in the CLR group did. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the overall survival rate of patients who underwent CLR was significantly lower than that of patients who underwent COR. Multivariate analysis showed that CLR, advanced T stage, lymph node positivity, and the occurrence of postoperative ascites were adverse prognostic factors for the overall survival of patients.
Conclusion
Patients with ID-iGBC who in the COR group had fewer perioperative complications and a better prognosis than the CLR group. For patients with ID-iGBC, conversion to laparotomy re-resection appears to be a better choice.
GDF15 inhibits early-stage adipocyte differentiation by enhancing HOP2 expression and suppressing C/EBPα expression
Authors: Kim Haeng Jun , Kang Sung-Un , Kim Hyo Jeong , Lee Yun Sang , Kim Chul-Ho
Published: May 2024

Excessive adipocyte differentiation and accumulation contribute to the development of metabolic disorders. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) plays a crucial role in energy homeostasis and is considered an anti-obesity factor; however, increased serum levels of endogenous GDF15 have been reported in certain individuals with obesity. Here, to understand this complex relationship of GDF15 levels with obesity, we investigated its expression and function during early adipogenesis. Mice fed a short-term high-fat diet exhibited a decreased epididymal white adipose tissue and serum GDF15 expression compared to those fed a normal diet. These results were confirmed in human adipose-derived stem cells that showed decreased GDF15 expression during early adipogenesis differentiation. During early adipogenesis, GDF15 was primarily degraded via the autophagy lysosomal pathway, and GDF15 overexpression in preadipocytes inhibited adipogenesis by suppressing the CCAAT enhancer binding protein alpha (C/EBPa). Furthermore, homologous-pairing protein 2 (HOP2) expression decreased during adipogenesis but increased under overexpressed GDF15 conditions. And When HOP2 was knocked down during GDF15 overexpression, there was no suppression of C/EBPa expression. These findings demonstrate that GDF15 undergoes lysosomal degradation through the autophagy pathway and, via HOP2 mediation, suppresses adipocyte differentiation by inhibiting C/EBPa expression. Further, our results suggest that GDF15 could serve as a potential therapeutic target against metabolic disorders.
Global warming’s “Six Americas” among Iowa farmers: Exploring differential attitudes towards climate change and agriculture
Authors: Nowatzke Laurie , Arbuckle J.
Published: May 2024

Agricultural production in the U.S. Midwest faces pressure to adapt to the negative impacts of climate change (e.g., extreme precipitation, drought) and to mitigate farms’ greenhouse gas emissions. Research has found that farmer attitudes toward and concern about climate change are highly variable and heterogenous. To explore variation in attitudes towards climate change, we have utilized the Six Americas Super Short Survey (SASSY), a four-item questionnaire that types individuals into six “types” based on their climate change beliefs and attitudes, with 1,039 Iowa farmers. This novel application of the SASSY typology method found that 22% of Iowa farmers aligned with the dismissive type, 20% were doubtful, 7% were disengaged, 23% were cautious, 16% were concerned, and 12% were alarmed. We also explored variation in farmers’ attitudes towards agricultural impacts and risks; we find that the SASSY correlates with attitudes towards more specific agricultural issues as they relate to climate change.
Associations of serum levels of cGAMP in the context of COVID-19 infection, atherosclerosis, sterile inflammation, and functional endothelial biomarkers in patients with coronary heart disease and healthy volunteers
Authors: Gumanova Nadezhda G. , Bogdanova Natalya L. , Havrichenko Yaroslav I. , Gorshkov Alexander U.
Published: May 2024

Background
COVID-19 is associated with various changes in immunity, including signaling through the pattern-recognition receptors (PRR). However, the role of these processes is poorly understood. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationships of the serum levels of the cyclic dinucleotide 2’3’-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) marker of PRR activation with immunoglobulin G antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome-linked coronavirus (IgG-SARS)-positive status and endothelial dysfunction in apparently healthy subjects and in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).
Methods
The present study investigated selected groups from two cohorts, including cohort 1 of 307 healthy volunteers and cohort 2 of 218 CHD patients. COVID-19 infection was confirmed by the detection of IgG-SARS against SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein receptor-binding domain. Cohort 1 (24–69 years of age; 44.8 ± 8.6 years; 80.4% men) was examined for systematic coronary risk evaluation by European Society of Cardiology (SCORE) starting from 2019 before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cohort 2 (63 ± 10.9 years of age, 54% men) was processed starting from 2017 (three years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic) in a hospital setting to undergo coronary angiography to assess coronary lesions as Gensini score. The levels of cGAMP and endothelial markers (nitrate and nitrite combined as NOx and endothelin-1) were assessed in the serum to evaluate the associations with IgG-SARS status, SCORE, and extent of coronary lesions by correlation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses.
Results
Serum cGAMP did not discriminate between SARS-positive and SARS-negative healthy subject of cohort 1. Moreover, the level of cGAMP was not associated with endothelial biomarkers in healthy subjects. However, serum cGAMP was associated with atherosclerosis in cohort 2 in patients with CHD (area under the curve (AUC) 0.69; 95% CI 0.587–0.806; P = 0.001), indicating that serum cGAMP was lower in patients with coronary stenosis compared to that in patients without coronary lesions.
Conclusions
Low levels of serum cGAMP were associated with atherosclerosis and markers of endothelial dysfunction in patients with CHD. However, cGAMP was not associated with endothelial biomarkers or IgG-SASR immune status in healthy subjects, suggesting that cGAMP may be a new biomarker of coronary lesions in the context of sterile inflammation.
A cardiac mass revealing a thoracic neuroblastoma in a four-years- old: a case report
Authors: Ouafik I. , Tizki S. , Arache H. , Safadi S. , Ouhsousou H. , Bazi I. , Salek M. , Wakrim S. , Raqim S. , Bouhajeb Y. , Minaoui M. , Nassik H. , Daoudi A. , Nainia K.
Published: May 2024

Neuroblastoma, an embryonal malignant tumor originating from neuroblasts within the sympathetic nervous system, is the third most prevalent pediatric malignancy, following leukemias and central nervous system tumors. The primary sites of metastases from neuroblastoma are the bone marrow, bones, and lymph nodes. Cardiac extension is an exceptionally rare occurrence. We report the case of a four-year-old child, with no prior medical history of cardiopathy, who had been experiencing exertional dyspnea for a few months leading to his admission. The patient presented to the pediatric emergency department for shortness of breath, chest pain, and fever.The clinical findings were: polypnea, signs of respiratory distress, bilateral jugular vein distention, and a systolic heart murmur at all the cardiac auscultation sites. A chest X-ray showed cardiomegaly and alveolar edema. Echocardiography revealed a large atrial septal defect with right heart enlargement, severe pulmonary hypertension, and an echogenic mobile lesion in the left atrium. Further investigations revealed a large left posterior mediastinal mass with calcifications extending to the left atrium. A biopsy was performed and histopathology of the mediastinal mass revealed neuroblastoma. The intracardiac extension of tumors in the pediatric population is rare. Thoracic and cardiac imagery can be used to characterize the mass further and adapt treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first published case of a posterior mediastinal neuroblastoma with direct intracardiac extension.
Two novel intronic mutations in ABCB4 gene: clinical manifestations and molecular mechanisms and literatures review
Authors: Zheng Yufeng , Weng Yuhang , Li Shunxin , Yang Yongfeng
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims: ABCB4 gene is closely related to bile transport and excretion. There are few studies on intronic mutations. In this study, we aimed to explore the pathogenicity of 2 newly discovered intronic mutations of the ABCB4 gene.
Methods: This research enrolled 2 patients with novel ABCB4 intronic mutations and we analyzed their clinical characteristics. The pathogenicity of 2 variants was predicted and analyzed in silicon. Minigene analysis was made to investigate their effects on splicing patterns. And the effects of mutations on the expression of ABCB4 mRNA and MDR3 were further explored. Additionally, we also conducted a literature review on ABCB4 intronic mutations.
Results: The main clinical manifestation of 2 patients was cholestasis. Liver pathology showed that 2 patients had different degrees of bile duct damage, inflammation and fibrosis. The results of the three pathogenicity prediction tools were similar, and it suggested that 2 intronic mutations might interfere with normal splicing. Moreover, minigene experiments demonstrated that the c.537-32G > T create a new alternative intron splicing receptor, resulting in the retention of 16-bp intronic sequence. And the c.833 + 2T > C created a new alternative intron splicing donor, resulting in the retention of 67-bp intronic sequence. The mRNA expression of c.537-32G > T was up-regulated compared with the wild type, while the mRNA expression of c.833 + 2T > C was down-regulated. Both of these 2 mutations led to the decrease of MDR3 expression. The review of ABCB4 intronic variants reported so far indicates that
Conclusions: The mutation of c.537-32G > T and c.833 + 2T > C of ABCB4 gene are splicing mutations, and they tempered with 3' splicing site and 5' splicing site respectively. Clinical data, bioinformatics prediction, and in vitro experiments all indicated that the 2 mutations are pathogenic.
Timing of the Repeat Thyroid Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy: Does Early Repeat Biopsy Change the Rate of Nondiagnostic or Atypia of Undetermined Significance Cytology Result?
Authors: KAHRAMANCA Fatma Dilek DELLAL , SACIKARA Muhammet , KILICARSLAN Aydan , OGMEN Berna , AYDIN Cevdet , TOPALOGLU Oya , ERSOY Reyhan , CAKIR Bekir
Published: May 2024

Purpose To determine whether early repeat fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) has an effect on adequate or atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) cytology rates in thyroid nodules with inadequate or AUS result in the first FNA.Methods Nodules of patients who underwent repeat biopsy due to insufficient or AUS cytology between 2019–2022 were included. Data of the patients and ultrasonographic, cytological and histopathological results of the nodules were recorded. Additionally, the time between the two biopsies was noted. The first was called initial and the second was called rebiopsy. Five different paired groups were formed according to the time between two consecutive biopsies; before and after 1 month, 45 days, 2 months, 3 months, and 6 months. The groups were compared in terms of adequate and AUS cytological results.Results We evaluated 1129 patients with 2187 nodules undergoing FNAB. After excluding nodules with one FNA result and/or missing data, 966 nodules of 628 patients who underwent FNA at least twice were included. Initial cytology was nondiagnostic (ND) in 665 (30.4%) and AUS/FLUS in 301 (13.8%) nodules. The mean age of the patients was 52.0 ± 11.9, and the female sex ratio was 78.8% (n = 495). There were no differences in adequate or AUS rebiopsy results according to the different time interval groups (p > 0.05 for all). AUS result was statistically insignificantly more frequent in nodules with initially AUS nodules when rebiopsy was performed before one month in comparison to after one month (72.9%, 46.2%; p = 0.054). Accuracy of rebiopsy was also similar in the time intervals groups (p > 0.05 for all).Conclusion In patients with inadequate or AUS initial biopsy, the rate of adequate or AUS cytology results at rebiopsy did not vary with the timing of repeat biopsy indicating that there may be no need to wait one month for a repeat biopsy. In patients with suspicious nodules, biopsy might be repeated before one month.
Association of Metal Cations with the Anti-PF4/Heparin Antibody Response in Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Giles Jason B , Martinez Kiana L , Steiner Heidi E , Klein Andrew , Ooi Aikseng , Pryor Julie , Sweitzer Nancy , Fuchs Deborah , Karnes Jason H
Published: May 2024

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an antibody-mediated immune response against complexes of heparin and platelet factor 4 (PF4). The electrostatic interaction between heparin and PF4 is critical for the anti-PF4/heparin antibody response seen in HIT. The binding of metal cations to heparin induces conformational changes and charge neutralization of the heparin molecule, and cation-heparin binding can modulate the specificity and affinity for heparin-binding partners. However, the effects of metal cation binding to heparin in the context of anti-PF4/heparin antibody response have not been determined. Here, we utilized inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to quantify 16 metal cations in patient plasma and tested for correlation with anti-PF4/heparin IgG levels and platelet count after clinical suspicion of HIT in a cohort of heparin-treated patients. The average age of the cohort (n = 32) was 60.53 (SD = 14.31) years old, had a mean anti-PF4/heparin antibody optical density [OD405] of 0.93 (SD = 1.21) units and was primarily female (n = 23). Patients with positive anti-PF4/heparin antibody test results (OD405 ≥ 0.5 units) were younger, had increased weight and BMI, and were more likely to have a positive serotonin release assay (SRA) result compared to antibody negative patients. We observed statistical differences between antibody positive and negative groups for sodium and aluminum and significant correlations of anti-PF4/heparin antibody levels with sodium and silver. While differences in sodium concentrations were associated with antibody positive status and correlated with antibody levels, no replication was performed. Additional studies are warranted to confirm our observed association, including in vitro binding studies and larger observational cohorts.
Beyond the Boundaries: a Case Report of Dedifferentiated Endometrial Carcinoma Masquerading as a Neurological Disorder
Authors: Kenmoe Jerry , Belal Mohamed , Umoh Israel , Borgeson Jeffrey , Hussain Zahid
Published: May 2024

Background:
Dedifferentiated endometrial cancer (DEC) presents a unique clinical challenge due to its atypical manifestations and aggressive metastatic behavior. It often poses diagnostic dilemmas, particularly when presenting with unusual symptoms.
Case Presentation:
A fifty-something year-old patient with a history of hypertension and obesity presented with clinical symptoms suggestive of seizures. However, further investigation through diagnostic imaging revealed lesions in the abdomen, chest, and pelvic region, along with evidence of multiple brain invasion and pulmonary nodules. Biopsy results confirmed the presence of extensive malignant disorder, characterized by poor differentiation and aggressive activity.
The neurological symptoms observed in the patient resembled those of a seizure disorder but lacked typical characteristics. This unusual presentation and rapid disease progression underscored the clinical significance of the case, highlighting the complexity of diagnosing DEC and the need for thorough differential diagnosis in such scenarios.
Conclusion:
This case study sheds light on the aggressive nature of DEC and underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and comprehensive evaluation in managing challenging cases of endometrial cancer. By emphasizing the complexities associated with DEC and its deceptive symptomatology, this study contributes valuable insights to the medical literature, ultimately advocating for enhanced clinical vigilance and tailored management strategies in similar cases.
Large Language Model-Driven Selection of Glutathione Peroxidase 4 as a Candidate Blood Transcriptional Biomarker for Circulating Erythroid Cells
Authors: Subba Bishesh , Toufiq Mohammed , Omi Fuadur , Yurieva Marina , Khan Taushif , Rinchai Darawan , Palucka Karolina , Chaussabel Damien
Published: May 2024

Background
The identification of optimal candidate genes from large-scale blood transcriptomic data is crucial for developing targeted assays to monitor immune responses. Here, we employ a large language model (LLM)-based approach for prioritizing candidate biomarkers from blood transcriptional modules.
Methods
Focusing on module M14.51 from the BloodGen3 repertoire, which is associated with erythroid cells and erythropoiesis, we utilized OpenAI's GPT-4 and Anthropic's Claude to score and rank the module's constituent genes across six criteria: relevance to erythroid biology, existing biomarkers, potential as a blood biomarker, leukocyte immune biology, drug targeting, and immune disease therapeutics. The LLMs were then used to select a top candidate gene based on the scoring justifications. Reference transcriptome data was incorporated to validate the selection.
Results
The LLMs consistently identified Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4) as the top candidate gene for module M14.51. GPX4's role in oxidative stress regulation, its potential as a future drug target, and its expression across diverse immune cell types supported its selection. The incorporation of reference transcriptome data further validated GPX4 as the most suitable candidate for this module.
Conclusions
Our LLM-driven workflow enhances the efficiency of candidate gene prioritization, enabling the development of biologically relevant and clinically informative targeted assays. The identification of GPX4 as a key gene in the erythroid cell-associated module M14.51 highlights the potential of this approach for biomarker discovery and targeted assay development.
Epidemic preparedness and response capacity against infectious disease outbreaks in 186 countries
Authors: Eze Paul , Idemili Judith Chidumebi , Nwoko Friday Onwubiko , James Nigel , Lawani Lucky Osaheni
Published: May 2024

Objectives
Disruptive public health risks and events, including infectious disease outbreaks, are inevitable, but their effects can be mitigated by investing in prevention and preparedness. We assessed the epidemic preparedness and response capacity of health systems in 186 countries from 2018 to 2022.
Methods
We utilized data from the International Health Regulations (IHR) State Party Self-Assessment Annual Reporting (SPAR) submissions to assess health systems’ IHR capacity to (1) prevent, (2) detect, (3) respond, (4) enabling function, and (5) operational readiness from 2018 to 2022. We categorized the IHR capacities into five levels, with level 1 denoting the lowest level of national capacity and level 5 denoting the highest.
Results
SPAR reporting marginally improved from 92.9% (182 of 196 state parties) in 2018 to 94.9% (186 of 196 state parties) in 2022, with considerable improvement in all five capacity domains over this period, especially in terms of the capacity to prevent and detect epidemic risks. Among the most recent (2022) submissions, 116 (63%) countries demonstrated functional prevention capacity (level 4 or 5), 162 (87%) had functional detection capacity, 118 (64%) had high response capacity, 121 (65%) had functional levels of resources and coordination, and 133 (71%) had the highest operational readiness against public health risks/events. Across all the indexes, the WHO African Region reported the fewest countries with functional capacity in these domains.
Conclusions
The world remains vulnerable to the persisting risk of epidemics and infectious biohazards, with wide variations among countries in their capacity to prevent, detect, and effectively respond to outbreaks. Strengthening IHR competencies through local, national, and global engagements must be urgently prioritized and funded to achieve global health security against infectious diseases.
Trend, treatment outcome and associated factors of breast cancer at TGSH and FHRH, West Amhara, Ethiopia from January 2018 to December 2022
Authors: Assefa
Published: May 2024

Background: Breast cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and ranks the 5th cause of death among all cancers, and most common cause of cancer death in women both developing and developed countries.
Purpose: This study assessed the trend, treatment outcomes, and associated factors of breast cancer at the TGSH and FHRH from January 1, 2018, to December 30, 2022.
Methods: An institution-based retrospective study was conducted from January 1, 2018, to December 30, 2022, at TGSH and FHRH, Bahir Dar. Secondary data were collected by reviewing patients’ charts. The collected data were entered into Epi data and exported to SPSS for further analyses. Univariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify associated factors. Variables with a P-value ≤ 0.25 in binary logistic regression analysis were candidates for multi-variable analysis. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. AOR with 95% CI was used to measure the strength of association.
Results: Among the 132 patients, 90.2% were females. The median age and mean symptom duration were 38 years and 7.87 months respectively. Only 75.3% of patients presented with breast lumps. One patient had bilateral breast cancers. Most patients present late with a locally advanced stage. The predominant histological finding was ductal carcinoma (53.0%). NACT was administered to only 6 (4.5%) patients. During follow-up, 34.1% and 3.8% of the patients developed local wound complications and recurrences, respectively. Only one patient was referred for radiotherapy. Presenting symptoms and waiting time for surgery were significantly associated with short-term complications (AOR=0.28; 95% CI (0.09,0.93)) and (AOR=0.16; 95% CI (0.03,0.89)) respectively. In multivariable models, performing surgery within 10 days of diagnosis decreased the incidence of short-term complications.
Conclusion: Our study showed that relatively young females are commonly affected, the majority presenting with locally advanced stage of the disease.
Enhancing Computational Speed and Accuracy in Circuit Design Calculations using ANN
Authors: Mohan Keshav , Gautam Lokesh , Chaudhary Aryan , Jindal Ansh
Published: May 2024

The efficiency of Latch design and optimization plays a crucial role in shaping the overall performance of digital circuits, impacting power consumption and timing within emerging system-on-chip (SOC) archi-tectures. This paper introduces a methodology for modeling, designing, and optimizing 65nm D-Latch positive-edge-triggered Latch. Leveraging an Arti-ficial neural network (ANN)-based optimization ap-proach, an accurate model is first generated for vari-ous performance metrics using training data acquired from transistor-level models, which surpass tradi-tional methods by over 100 times in speed. Sub-sequently, these precise ANN-based models are em-ployed to optimize design objectives such as setup time, and propagation delay (Data to Output). The utilization of these swift and precise models markedly expedites the design process and yields significantly optimized outcomes. Furthermore, given the ANN’s capacity as a universal approximator capable of cap-turing any nonlinear input-output relationship, the proposed method is adaptable to optimizing circuits for diverse performance metrics, even in the absence of analytical formulas. Additionally, the automation of circuit design through the proposed method sim-plifies the tasks of circuit designers.
Increased Water Consumption and Quality of Food Policies for Schools
Authors: De Jong David , Eggers-Ferry Rachael
Published: May 2024

In a state that ranks 23rd in childhood obesity, 28th in adult obesity, and has an obesity trend that continues to climb, South Dakota does not have required state wellness policies addressing consumption of water, nutrition standards, or quality of foods (The State of Obesity 2017: Better Policies for a Healthier America, 2017). Specific language, requirements, and strategies need to be established to address these areas that are lacking, and an emphasis and awareness should be placed on an overall healthier lifestyle specifically targeting increased water consumption, nutrition standards, and quality of food options in schools. Leaders in education have the responsibility to help educate the whole child, which includes outlining the dangers and potential side effects of childhood obesity along with providing strategies, support, and education in nutrition and healthy living.
QbD Assisted Development of a Compartment and Sequential Drug
Delivery System for Periodontotherapy
Authors: Jain Pooja , Iqbal Zeenat
Published: May 2024

Periodontitis, the burgeoning disease, is at an alarming stage. Although this has triggered
dedicated research in this area, as the disease itself demands a multi-component therapy,
there is an unmet need for a compartment and sequential drug delivery system to ameliorate
disease symptoms completely. The hypothesized work consists of multitherapeutic agents such
as an antibiotic, a COX-II inhibitor, an MMP inhibitor, and a bone regenerating agent in an insitu
gel. However, for the development of the system, as mentioned above, a thorough investigation
at each stage is necessary; therefore, the quality-by-design approach was adopted.
Furthermore, the current work is a pursuit of studying the quality by design aspects for the fabrication
of a compartment system, i.e., in-situ gel for periodontal delivery. The proposed system
in-situ gel consists of antibiotic and nano-encapsulating microcapsules. Furthermore, the
microcapsules contain a COX-II inhibitor and nanoparticles of MMP inhibitor and bone regenerating
agent for complete amelioration of periodontitis. To develop the system as per the QbD
approach, the first initial trials and runs were conducted, which helped to decide the quality target
product profile (QTPP). However, based on QTPP, critical quality attributes (CQA), critical
process parameters (CPP), and critical material attributes (CMAs) were decided for each stage
product, i.e., in-situ gel, microcapsules, and nanoparticles. To assess the influence of CPPs and
CMAs on CQAs, Pareto charts were constructed, and various risks, along with possible failure
modes were studied. In conclusion, the above work will serve as a well-designed scientific
mouthpiece for developing a compartment system for periodontotherapy.
“Sex Cord Stromal Tumor Masquerading as Broad Ligament Fibroid in a
Postmenopausal Woman: Lessons Learned from a Case Report”
Authors: Kumar Naina , Aparna J. , Santhoshi G. , Sharma Abhimanyu
Published: May 2024

Background::

Ovarian fibromas are sex cord-stromal tumors accounting for 4% of all ovarian
tumors. They are benign, solid ovarian tumors commonly encountered in perimenopausal and
postmenopausal women. They are usually asymptomatic or present with vague symptoms like abdominal
pain. This makes their pre-operative diagnosis difficult.

Case Report::

The present case report briefs the finding of ovarian fibroma in a 59-year-old postmenopausal
woman presenting with dull aching lower abdominal pain, misdiagnosed as broad ligament
fibroid on ultrasonography and malignant ovarian mass on MRI. She underwent exploratory laparotomy
with total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Intraoperative findings
included a right-sided smooth, solid, freely mobile ovarian mass of size 4x5 cm, uterus and left ovary
were atrophic, with healthy bilateral fallopian tubes. Her histopathology report revealed ovarian fibroma
with minimal nuclear atypia.

Conclusion::

Ovarian fibromas are common benign solid ovarian tumors, that are difficult to diagnose
pre-operatively, and often confused with uterine or broad ligament fibroids due to their similar clinical
and radiological presentations. Hence, the clinician should keep ovarian fibromas as one of the
differentials in the diagnosis of solid adnexal masses mimicking broad ligament fibroids.
Development and Validation of 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Quantitative
Method for Efavirenz API Quality Control
Authors: de Sousa Eduardo Gomes Rodrigues , de Souza Karina Rocha , da Silva San Gil Rosane Aguiar , Guimaraes Thiago Frances , de Castro Renata Ribeiro , Lucchetti Leonardo , de Carvalho Erika Martins
Published: May 2024

Background:

The pharmaceutical industry is constantly looking for a better way to ensure
and improve its products' safety, quality, and effectiveness. Since there are many attributes of the
drug substance and excipients that could potentially affect the Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs) of
the intermediates and the final product, the evaluation of the raw material's physicochemical characteristics
is crucial as they directly affect the quality, safety, efficacy, and lot-to-lot consistency. Scientists
rely on methods, like HPLC, HPTLC, LC-MS, GC-MS, and NMR, to analyze these substances.
The advantage of NMR is that it is considered a primary analytical method compared to other
analytical techniques.

Objective:

This work aimed to present a simple, rapid, specific, and accurate method by proton Nuclear
Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR) developed to determine the activity of the antiretroviral
Efavirenz’s (EFZ) Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API). The method was based on
quantitative NMR spectroscopy (qNMR).

Methods:

A Bruker Avance spectrometer (11.7 Tesla, 500 MHz for 1H) with a 5mm probe was used.
The 1H-NMR signal at 7.54 ppm corresponding to the analyte of interest was employed to quantify
the drug. The method was validated for specificity, selectivity, intermediate precision, linearity,
range of work, accuracy, and robustness.

Results:

The method developed was specific and linear (r2 = 0.9998) with a value between 4.30
mg/mL and 12.40 mg/mL. The relative standard deviation for accuracy and precision was 0.4% or
less. The method's robustness was demonstrated by changing four different parameters, and the difference
among each was 1.2% or less. The results of this work have been found to be in agreement
with those obtained from High-performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis.

Conclusion:

The proposed method has been found to be a valuable and practical tool for quality
control. Its applicability to determining many APIs and saving solvent use and time is highlighted.
Diagnosis of Lymphatic Metastasis in Breast Cancer Using Nanoparticle Technology - Diagnosis, Therapy, Imaging, Treatment
Authors: De Britto Novietta , Neeraja R , Anbarasi L. Jani , Ravi Vinayakumar , S P Syed Ibrahim , Jawahar Malathy , Al Mazroa Alanoud
Published: May 2024

Breast cancer is a major cause of patient death rates, frequently leading to life-changing repercussions even after survival is attained. This paper aims to investigate therapeutic alternatives employing nanoparticles to specifically target and treat lymphatic metastasis, which is a highly dangerous characteristic of breast cancer. This work explores the effectiveness and importance of using nanoparticle-based therapeutics to prevent the harmful consequences of breast cancer progression.
The paper begins by discussing the progress of lymphatic metastasis and then delves into the use of nanoparticle technology in imaging techniques, diagnostic methods, and therapy tactics. This section provides detailed information on primary targeting treatments, including chemotherapy specifically targeting cancer stem cells, induction of tumour cell death, suppression of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), manipulation of the Tumour Microenvironment (TME), and improvement of the immune response. In addition, the research explores the use of nanoparticle technology in treatment plans, specifically focusing on its super magnetic capabilities and the application of gold nanoparticles, nanodiamonds, and other related qualities.
Nanoparticle technology presents an optimistic strategy to address lymphatic metastasis in breast cancer. Nanoparticles can be used to deliver drugs or therapeutic substances directly to cancerous tumours, specifically targeting cancer cells to either destroy them or slow their growth. This strategy provides a solution for the administration of pharmaceuticals or substances that may provide challenges when delivered using conventional methods. Furthermore, nanoparticles facilitate the visualisation of tumours, aiding healthcare professionals in evaluating the severity of malignancy and formulating suitable treatment strategies.
A comprehensive discussion has been conducted on several nanoparticles employed for inhibiting the dissemination of cancer cells from the primary organ to secondary organs. After successfully overcoming breast cancer, patients remain susceptible to post-surgical metastases in vital organs such as the lungs, brain, and bones. The advancements achieved through nanoparticle technology are highly significant. The discussion has focused on experimental evidence offered by researchers who mostly conducted studies on mice to support their findings.
Influence of Equal Channel Angular Pressing Technique on Mechanical Properties, Corrosion Resistance, and Microstructural Behavior of Al-Alloy 5083
Authors: Mishra Vishwesh , Singhal Piyush
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

During severe plastic deformation (SPD) processing, aluminum alloys exhibit
moderate strength and ductility. Nevertheless, the materials' ductility, as determined by tensile
testing, does not accurately represent their capacity for plastic deformation. After the tensile test, its
material, aluminum alloy 5083, was observed to be super ductile.

Method:

The results of a more thorough plasticity analysis—applied for the first time to material
following SPD processing—are presented in this paper. The aluminum alloy 5083 is examined in
the patent both before and after equal channel angular pressing (ECAP). A highly effective aluminum
alloy 5083 specimen preparation was suggested. Under heated temperatures, the process involves
severe plastic deformation. Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
were used for micro-structural research in order to look at the distribution of second-phase particles
and the evolution of grain structure. Furthermore, Vickers micro-hardness testing was utilized to assess
the mechanical characteristics of the alloy after processing. The outcomes showed that after
ECAP processing, there was a significant decrease in grain size and an increase in micro-hardness.

Result:

Additionally, the production of a finer microstructure with a more uniform distribution of
strengthening precipitates was clarified by electron microscopy (SEM). The micro-structural evolution
and mechanical behavior of aluminum alloy 5083 under ECAP are well-explained in this patent,
which may lead to improved performance in structural applications. This method can be used
to forecast fractures in plastic deformation processes and estimate the final plasticity of the materials
for various stress-strain states after ECAP processing, as well as the mechanical properties discussed.

Conclusion:

Due to its unique mechanical qualities, aluminum alloy 5083 shows great potential in a
variety of structural applications. The effects of Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP) on the
hardness and microstructure of aluminum alloy 5083 were examined in this patent work.

result:

The specimen's mechanical characteristics are at their finest following a single deformation when the temperature reaches 300°C. Compared to the original specimen, the tensile strength observed enhanced after the fourth pass, and breaking elongation (28.3%) was improved. Through second-phase strengthening and fine-tuning, the recrystallized grains and second-phase particles increase the material's strength.
Percentage of Hard Coral Cover and Coral Recruitment on in Bangsring Beach, Banyuwangi Regency
Authors: Samuel Pratama Diffi , Fakhri Muhammad , Dewi Citra Satrya Utama , Ellona Jessica , Anam M. Choirul
Published: May 2024

One of the tourist attractions at Bangsring Beach is the condition of the coral reef ecosystem and unique marine biota that tourists can enjoy by snorkeling and diving. Based on research (Ekawati et al., 2021) using remote sensing, the area of live coral reefs on Bangsring Beach is as follows; 2005; 3.38, 2008; 2.61, 2011; 3.7, 2017; 3.98, 2020; 6.1 Ha). It can be said that the area of coral reefs increases yearly, although, in 2008-2011, it decreased by 32%. The results of the economic valuation explain that the (Total Economic Value) of the coral reef ecosystem in Bangsring Beach is 38.2 billion Rupiah/year or 2.9 billion Rupiah hectares/year. The use-value that has the largest economic value comes from tourism utilization of 25 billion or 60% of the Total Economic Value. The coral community structure includes Coral Branching, Coral Encrusting, Coral Massive, Coral Submaasive, and Coral Mushroom. Mushroom Coral is found solitary and shaped like a mushroom. The research data shows the average value of Bangsring Fish House cover is 82.5%. Fish house cover here is seen and assessed based on the presence of hard corals, soft corals, and algae. The average percentage of hard corals growing at the Bangsring Fish House was 30%, soft corals 21.5%, and algae 17.5%. Found 21 types of coral such as; Acropora, Favia, Turbinaria, Symphyllia, Goniastrea.
Translation of literary texts and online collaboration: Breaking barriers through virtual exchange
Authors: Castel-Branco Maria da Conceição Emiliano
Published: May 2024

Literary translation usually brings linguistic, textual, cultural, and pragmatic problems into perspective. As a knowledge-transfer process, it also demands a set of skills as the translator intends to convey, to some extent, the literary subtleties of the original. Graduate students attending a MA seminar of Translation of Literary Texts are frequently asked to undertake the process of translating a selection of excerpts of a variety of literary texts, to acknowledge difficulties and set up strategies for achieving their work. One of the most rewarding tools available to literary translators is working with the author, which is not always feasible in real-life activity and even more unlikely in Literary Translation classes. This report presents the practice of virtual exchange by describing the experience of matching Creative Writing students with students attending a Translation of Literary Texts seminar. Online collaboration gave Literary Translation students a sense of real-life experience by having the opportunity to communicate and work with the author, translating unpublished and untranslated texts. It was not only an opportunity of participating in a collaborative international project by means of virtual exchange, but also an opportunity of translating with the author.
Peran Ultrasound Guided Vascular Access (UGVA) dalam Menurunkan Risiko Komplikasi Central Line-associated Bloodstream Site Infection (CLaBSI)
Authors: Yun Jufan Akhmad
Published: May 2024

Central Line-associated Bloodstream Infection (CLaBSI) is a complication of infection that occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream through a central venous catheter. CLaBSI is diagnosed by doctors through blood culture results and from the tip of the central venous catheter. Infections related to central venous catheters such as CLaBSI can lead to serious complications including sepsis, septic shock, and death. To reduce the incidence of CLaBSI, several prevention can be taken during central venous catheter insertion, one of which is using Ultrasound-Guided Vascular Access (UGVA) technique. This article aims to compare the effectiveness and safety of using the Ultrasound-Guided Vascular Access (UGVA) method with the landmark method in preventing Central Line-associated Bloodstream Infection (CLaBSI). The writing method used is literature review with keywords CLaBSI, USG guided, and central line catheter. The results show that the use of UGVA can reduce the incidence of CLaBSI to be two times lower compared to the landmark technique.
Issue Ownership and Framing
Authors: McLaughlin Cara
Published: May 2024

This article explores how Scottish political parties frame their owned issues on social media to persuade voters during the run-up to elections. Through a qualitative analysis of 150 Twitter and Facebook posts from five major Scottish parties, the study reveals that parties employ threat and victim framing to bolster their vote share. Opposition parties predominantly portray the Scottish National Party (SNP) as a threat, while all parties frame the electorate as victims. The extent and focus of these frames vary based on parties' parliamentary strength and government/opposition status. The SNP, holding a strong governing position, focuses on advancing its independence agenda, while other parties critique the SNP and then promote their own priorities. This article contributes to framing theory by highlighting the nuanced relationship between issue ownership, threat, and victim frames in shaping electoral outcomes. The findings underscore the strategic use of social media by parties to influence voter perceptions and decisions.
Review of "Marcel Gauchet and the Crisis of Democratic Politics" edited by Natalie J. Doyle and Sean McMorrow
Authors: De Brouwer Samuel
Published: May 2024

Marcel Gauchet and the Crisis of Democratic Politics
Edited by NATALIE J. DOYLE and SEAN MCMORROW
New York: Routledge, 2022
266 Pages, US$43.99
ISBN 9780367696894
Review of "Centrist Anti-Establishment Parties in Central and Eastern Europe: Success and Failure" by Sarah Engler
Authors: Pohanka Vojtěch
Published: May 2024

Centrist Anti-Establishment Parties and Their Struggle for Survival
By SARAH ENGLER
Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2023
224 Pages, US$90
ISBN: 9780192873132
AN OVERVIEW OF SOME HERBAL ANTIDEPRESSANT PLANTS
Authors: PATIL TANMAYI , KALE MOHAN , KUMBHAR RUTUJA , BODKE VISHAL , CHAUDHARI KOMAL
Published: May 2024

There are numerous ways to categorize and treat depression, which is a diverse mood disease. The illness is caused by factors such as 5-HT, NA, and MAO-A inhibition and stimulation. Reduced curiosity about pleasure, feelings of inappropriate guilt or worthlessness, a drop in hunger and sexual desire, sleeplessness, and persistent suicidal thoughts are some of the symptoms. There are several synthetic medications used to treat depression, but not all of them make patients happy, and some of them may have negative side effects. Many have turned to well-liked traditional herbal remedies to avoid the negative effects of allopathic therapy. Due to their broad application, therapeutic efficacy, and little to negligible adverse effects, herbal medications are currently used worldwide. Several medicinal plants and medicines derived from these plants have shown antidepressant properties by the combined effect of their medicinal constituents.
We discuss promising novel medicinal products targets for the management of major depressive illness in this review. We address the potential antidepressant benefits of selectively targeting receptors, including opioid, G-protein-coupled, and metabotropic glutamate receptors. Since they may also have therapeutic value, we also talk about substances that target biological processes, including inflammation, the gut microbiota, the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Lastly, we offer a synopsis of all the plants displayed in graphical format, together with an overview of the antidepressant plants which currently are widely accessible.