bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auto encoder-based defense mechanism against popular adversarial attacks in deep learning
Authors: Ashraf Syeda Nazia , Siddiqi Raheel , Farooq Humera
Published: October 2024

Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based models are prone to adversarial attacks, which present a significant hurdle to their reliability and robustness. The vulnerability of CNN-based models may be exploited by attackers to launch cyber-attacks. An attacker typically adds small, carefully crafted perturbations to original medical images. When a CNN-based model receives the perturbed medical image as input, it misclassifies the image, even though the added perturbation is often imperceptible to the human eye. The emergence of such attacks has raised security concerns regarding the implementation of deep learning-based medical image classification systems within clinical environments. To address this issue, a reliable defense mechanism is required to detect adversarial attacks on medical images. This study will focus on the robust detection of pneumonia in chest X-ray images through CNN-based models. Various adversarial attacks and defense strategies will be evaluated and analyzed in the context of CNN-based pneumonia detection. From earlier studies, it has been observed that a single defense mechanism is usually not effective against more than one type of adversarial attack. Therefore, this study will propose a defense mechanism that is effective against multiple attack types. A reliable defense framework for pneumonia detection models will ensure secure clinical deployment, facilitating radiologists and doctors in their diagnosis and treatment planning. It can also save time and money by automating routine tasks. The proposed defense mechanism includes a convolutional autoencoder to denoise perturbed Fast Gradient Sign Method (FGSM) and Projected Gradient Descent (PGD) adversarial images, two state- of-the-art attacks carried out at five magnitudes, i.e., ε (epsilon) values. Two pre-trained models, VGG19 and VGG16, and our hybrid model of MobileNetV2 and DenseNet169, called Stack Model, have been used to compare their results. This study shows that the proposed defense mechanism outperforms state-of-the-art studies. The PGD attack using the VGG16 model shows a better attack success rate by reducing overall accuracy by up to 67%. The autoencoder improves accuracy by up to 16% against PGD attacks in both the VGG16 and VGG19 models.
The association between perceived sensitivity to medicines, reported side effects and personal characteristics: A secondary analysis of an RCT
Authors: Kern Alexandra , Fischbach-Zieger Anja , Witt Claudia , Barth Juergen
Published: October 2024

Introduction

A patient’s perceived sensitivity to medicines (PSM) might influence the reported side effects of a treatment. The experience of side effects can result in personal and structural costs (such as nonadherence). Research on nocebo mechanisms and the workings of side effect reporting has been disproportionally smaller compared to the emerging evidence of the individual and clinical impact of the matter. In this study, we explored and re-examined the association between PSM and reported side effects within a specific population (chronic low back pain patients receiving acupuncture treatment), including possible mediating variables (i.e., gender, medical and nonmedical care utilization, optimism, pessimism, anxiety, depression and treatment expectation).

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial that examined the influence of treatment outcome expectations in chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients. All measures in the analysis were self-assessments. We explored the association between PSM, reported side effects and personal characteristics using correlational and regression analyses.

Results

Our sample consisted of 152 CLBP patients (65.8% female), the mean age was 39.5 years (SD = 12.5). We found positive correlations between PSM and reported side effects (r = 0.24; p < 0.01) and between PSM and anxiety (r = 0.21; p < 0.05). However, the subsequent regression analyses did not confirm a mediating or moderating effect of anxiety between PSM and reported side effects.

Conclusion

We confirmed and extended earlier research on PSM. Our study involved a specific pain population receiving a nonpharmacological intervention. Our results highlight the importance of targeting PSM and anxiety within a treatment to take measures to mitigate the prevalence of side effects.
The effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis: Study protocol for a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Qian-Wen , Ong Michael Tim-Yun , Man Gene Chi-Wai , Yeung Yi-Man , He Xin , Choi Ben Chi-Yin , Ng Jonathan Patrick , Mok Daniel Kam-Wah , Lam Tsz-Ping , Yung Patrick Shu-Hang
Published: October 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) knee is one of the most common chronic degenerative conditions that imposes clinical and economic burdens on individuals and societies worldwide. Previous studies showed vitamin D levels correlated positively with lean muscle mass and grip strength, implying that vitamin D supplementation may improve muscle health in knee OA subjects. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to compare the effects of vitamin D supplementation on knee muscle strength, physical function, pain, and sarcopenia status in patients with end-stage knee OA. Patients and outcome assessors will be blinded to group allocation. Fifty-six end-stage knee OA patients with vitamin D insufficiency fulfilling our inclusion criteria will be invited to participate in this study. Patients will be randomly assigned to take vitamin D supplementation (4,000 IU capsule daily) or placebo for six months. Measurements will be taken at baseline, three and six-month after the commencement of the vitamin D supplement, and 6-month after the interventional period. The primary outcome includes the isometric quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength measured by a hand-held dynamometer. Secondary outcomes include pain, performance-based and self-reported physical function and sarcopenia status. The success of this study will provide scientific evidence of whether the relatively cheap and well-tolerated vitamin D supplement can improve quadriceps muscle strength, physical function, pain symptoms, and sarcopenia status of this increasingly large population for end-stage knee OA patients. The study has great clinical significance given Hong Kong’s lengthy and growing waiting list for complete knee replacement procedures.

Trial registration: The trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05981534) on 31st July 2023.
Safety and efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation for viral diseases: A systematic review of clinical trials
Authors: Ebrahimi Rasoul , Masouri Mohammad Mahdi , Salehi Amniyeh Khozani Amir Abbas , Ramadhan Hussein Dana , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria
Published: October 2024

Background

Gut microbiota play important roles in several diseases like viral infections. In this systematic review, our objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) in treating various viral diseases.

Methods

We conducted searches on databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar until November 2023. Clinical trials reported outcomes related to safety of FMT or its efficacy in patients with viral diseases were included. We excluded other types of studies that enrolled healthy individuals or patients with other disorders and did not use FMT. The assessment of bias risk was conducted using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) study quality evaluation tool.

Results

Eight studies with total 196 participants were included. Viral diseases were human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B, COVID-19 and Clostridioides difficile coinfection, and cytomegalovirus colitis. In hepatitis B cases, HBeAg clearance was significant in those received FMT (p<0.01), while it was not significant in another one (p = 0.19). A clinical response was noted in 37.5% of patients with cytomegalovirus colitis, with an equal percentage achieving clinical remission post-FMT. There was a significant reduction in Clostridioides difficile relapse rate in FMT group than controls in coinfection of Clostridioides difficile and COVID-19 (2.17% vs. 42.5%, p<0.05). In patients with HIV, partial engraftment of the donor microbiome and increases in alpha diversity were observed after FMT. No severe adverse events were reported. Most studies had fair or good qualities.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed FMT as a promising, safe treatment for some viral diseases. It improved viral clearance, clinical outcomes, and inflammation. However, the varying responses and small sample sizes call for more trials on FMT in viral diseases.
Arabic Wikipedia users’ personalized behavior analysis considering gender gap
Authors: Al-Shboul Bashar , Al-Qudah Dana A. , Boshmaf Hadeel , Abu-Salih Bilal , Beseiso Majdi , Al-Saqqa Samar
Published: October 2024

Introduction

As many web platforms adopt collaborative content editing models, the gender gap is addressed as one of the chief concerns in using technology to restrict content editing by one gender.

Objective

This study aims to analyze the Arabic Wikipedia, the largest collaborative content editing platform on the Arabic web, in terms of gender behavior and differences in user activities.

Methods

This study is the first to address the gender gap in Arabic Wikipedia, characterize users’ gender through their behavior, and then address changes in characteristics over the past five years. This study analyzes parts of Arabic Wikipedia offline by linking article pages and page edit histories to user profiles of known genders.

Results

This study reported that a gender gap exists in Arabic Wikipedia. The results reported differences over the past five years between both genders in terms of tasks and user behavior. One aspect that indicated similarity is the period of active time over months/years. Differences were observed in the reported number of increasing users, activities, responsibilities, and average actions performed.

Conclusion

The results reveal a vast gap in terms of gender behavior in Wikipedia activities. Moreover, the results reveal that some administrative activities are disclosed to men more than to women.
Occurrence of pesticide residues and associated ecological risks assessment in water and sediment from selected dams in northern Ghana
Authors: Orou-Seko Abdou , Chirawurah Dennis , Houndji Alexis , Achana Felix , Aputere Ndago Joyce , Nkansah-Baidoo Matilda , Adokiya Martin Nyaaba
Published: October 2024

Pesticides are chemicals used to enhance crop production. However, their residues can persist and accumulate in various environmental settings. This study assessed the occurrence of pesticide residues and ecological risks in surface water and sediment from the Libga and Builpela dams in northern Ghana. A total of 42 pesticides were analysed. Toxic units were used to assess the acute risk to sediment-dwelling organisms and aquatic biota. Risk quotients were employed to assess the chronic risk to aquatic organisms. Chlorpyrifos, atrazine, profenofos, and chlorfenvinphos were the main chemicals found in surface water. The concentrations were highest near the Builpela dam (0.413μg/L, 2.927μg/L, 0.304μg/L, 0.692μg/L, 0.073μg/L, 0.290μg/L, 0.06μg/L, and absent in the Libga dam). In the sediment, the organophosphates pyrimiphos-methyl and chlorpyrifos were found at high concentrations. They were found in higher quantities in the Libga dam (0.554mg/kg and 0.052mg/kg, respectively) and Builpela dam (0.051mg/kg and 0.043mg/kg, respectively). For organochlorines, p,p’-DDE and p,p’-DDD were the main residues detected at high concentrations. However, concentrations were higher for p,p’-DDD at Builpela than for p,p’-DDE. Additionally, high concentrations of atrazine were detected in this study. The toxic units showed a high acute risk for organisms that live in sediment as a result of chlorpyrifosfos and chlorfenvinphos residues. Similarly, pirimiphos-methyl and chlorfenvinphos, followed by chlorpyrifos, contributed to high acute risk in aquatic invertebrates. Risk quotients showed that both dams had a high long-term risk for aquatic life; however, the risk was higher at the Builpela dam due to Pirimiphos-methyl and Chlorfenvinphos. Ghana’s pesticide regulations are less comprehensive and enforcement is often weaker in protecting aquatic organisms. It is recommended to enforce strict limits on pesticide residues. Additionally, there is a need to regularly review and update these regulations based on new scientific data to protect aquatic ecosystems.
Recovery after human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) treatment in post-MCAO rats requires repeated handling
Authors: Gomez-Galvez Yolanda , Gupta Malvika , Kaur Mandeep , Fusco Salvatore , Podda Maria Vittoria , Grassi Claudio , Srivastava Amit K. , Iacovitti Lorraine , Blanco-Suarez Elena
Published: October 2024

Rehabilitation is the only current intervention that improves sensorimotor function in ischemic stroke patients, similar to task-specific intensive training in animal models of stroke. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are promising in restoring brain damage and function in stroke models. Additionally, the non-invasive intranasal route allows EVs to reach the brain and target specific ischemic regions. Yet unclear is how handling might enhance recovery or influence other therapies such as EVs after stroke. We used the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model of stroke in rats to assess how intensive handling alone, in the form of sensorimotor behavioral tests, or in combination with an intranasal treatment of EVs restored neurological function and ischemic damage. Handled rats were exposed to a battery of sensorimotor tests, including the modified Neurological Severity Score (mNSS), beam balance, corner, grid walking, forelimb placement, and cylinder tests, together with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at 2, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days post-stroke (dps). Handled MCAO rats were also exposed to an intranasal multidose or single dose of EVs. Non-handled rats were evaluated only by mNSS and MRI at 2, 28, and 56 dps and were treated with a single intranasal dose of EVs. Our results showed that handling animals after MCAO is necessary for EVs to work at the tested dose and frequency, and that a single cumulative dose of EVs further improves the neurological function recovered during handling. These results show the importance of rehabilitation in combination with other treatments such as EVs, and highlight how extensive behavioral testing might influence functional recovery after stroke.
Los tiempos de Papeles
Authors: (equipo editor) Papeles de Identidad
Published: October 2024

Papeles de identidad existe desde 2022, y ha pasado por tres épocas. Se inicia ahora la tercera, un nuevo tiempo, con un nuevo nombre.
Mi nombre y sus nombres. Dos notas y un final
Authors: Irazuzta Ignacio
Published: October 2024

El texto examina la relación entre el nombre y el cuerpo, centrándose en dos situaciones distintas: la experiencia del autor en su proceso de naturalización en México y la de migrantes que atraviesan el país. En la primera parte, el autor describe cómo su nombre se reescribe en nuevos documentos, reflejando un poder que reconoce su existencia al acceder a la nacionalidad. En contraste, la segunda parte se enfoca en los migrantes que ingresan irregularmente en México, quienes enfrentan un régimen migratorio que desestabiliza su identidad. Sus nombres “movidos” reflejan su vulnerabilidad y la falta de reconocimiento. Ambas situaciones están enmarcadas en un contexto histórico donde las dinámicas de reconocimiento y desconocimiento juegan un papel crucial en la definición de la identidad y pertenencia en un mundo interconectado.
Entre el pacto y el conflicto en la minoridad de un rey: los primeros años del reinado de Enrique III de Castilla (1390-1393)
Authors: Nogales Rincón David
Published: October 2024

La minoría de edad de Enrique III de Castilla (1390-1393) se presenta como un escenario privilegiado para el estudio del conflicto y la negociación entre las distintas instancias de poder del reino, que permite un acercamiento a la cultura política de las elites y a los mecanismos de consenso puestos en marcha por estas. En este período, marcado por los debates sobre los modelos de regencia en torno al regimiento por vía de consejo o por tutores e regidores, las Cortes emergerán, en tanto que representación de la voluntad colectiva del reino, como principal instancia tutelar y arbitral.
Open-system igneous processes in the felsic rocks of the Ditrău Alkaline Massif
Authors: Kiri Luca
Published: October 2024

This dissertation investigates the felsic rocks outcropping in the northern part of the Ditrău Alkaline Massif (DAM) by integrating field, petrological (structural and textural), geochemical and geochronological methods. The aim of the study is to reveal the structural and (micro)textural features of the felsic suite, to investigate whole-rock (major and trace elements) and mineral geochemical compositions, to specify the age of the rocks and to create a conceptual evolution model of the DAM by integrating all available knowledge about the massif. K/Ar geochronology was implemented on separated amphibole and biotite crystals from the felsic rocks (granite, nepheline syenite, syenite) of the archive samples, while the age of zircon and titanite crystals was determined using the U–Pb method. A new set of samples was collected in two sampling campaigns. Documentation involved the registration of GPS coordinates, the macroscopic structural-textural properties of the collected rocks and the relationship of the felsic rocks with other rock types (e.g., country rocks, dykes, mafic rocks). The microtextural characteristics of the rocks were unraveled by classic polarized-light microscopy. Raman microscopy was utilized to determine certain mineral phases. Compositional zonation and microtextural relations were revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The major element composition of the rock samples was determined by ICP-ES, while, the trace element composition was investigated by ICP-MS. The major and trace element compositions of the minerals (amphibole, clinopyroxene and plagioclase feldspar) were analyzed by electron microprobe and LA-ICP-MS, respectively. The new K/Ar and U–Pb age data, together with the relevant archive data, indicate that there is no significant time gap between the formation of the early mafic cumulates and the felsic rocks, suggesting the relatively short magmatic evolution of the massif in the Middle–Late Triassic. The age data contradict the multi-phase evolution theory of Pál-Molnár and Árva-Sós (1995), Kräutner and Bindea (1998), Morogan et al. (2000) and Pál-Molnár (2000, 2008). The studied rocks seem to be uniform at the macro-scale; however, they exhibit considerable heterogeneity at the micro-scale (e.g., mafic and felsic mineral aggregates, amphibole and plagioclase crystals with different zonation patterns). Their textural features, whole-rock major and trace element geochemistry as well as mineral chemistry suggest that they were formed in a dynamic magmatic environment, characterized by felsic cumulate formation and open-system magmatic processes (e.g. crystal transfer/recycling, wall rock assimilation and magma mixing). The studied felsic rocks were formed under dynamic, open-system magmatic conditions denoted by the periodic invasion of replenishing magma batches and their physicochemical interactions.
Modification of the activity of hydrolytic enzymes by the nature of the non-endogenous/non-native metal ions
Authors: Nafaee Zeyad Hasan Abdullah
Published: October 2024

A PhD munka kétféle hidrolitikus enzim vizsgálatát tűzte ki célul, különös tekintettel a fémionok katalitikus aktivitásra gyakorolt hatására. A TEM-1 β-laktamáz, a β-laktám antibiotikumok hidrolízisét segíti elő, azokkal szemben rezisztenciát okozva. Az NColE7 a vetélytárs baktériumok DNS-ének hidrolízise révén védi meg a gazdasejtet. A TEM-1 β-laktamáz nem metalloenzim, de számos potenciális fémkötőhely található benne. A fehérjetisztítás sikere fémion-affinitás kromatográfiával bizonyította a Ni(II) ionok kölcsönhatását a felszíni hisztidin oldalláncokkal. Ezt spektroszkópiás vizsgálatok is alátámasztották. A fehérjében található kén donoratomok szoft jellegű fémionokat köthetnek meg, mint a Cd(II), vagy Hg(II) ionok. Míg a Hg(II) ionok csökkentették az enzim katalitikus aktivitását, a Ni(II) és Cd(II) ionok elősegítették a szubsztrát hidrolízisét. A fémion természete meghatározó: a Hg(II) ionok az aktív központ közelében kötődve gátolták a reakció végbemenetelét, míg a másik két ion a szubsztrátot aktiválta. Az enzimkinetika felülvizsgálatára is sor került. Az NColE7 metalloenzim aktív központjában egy cinkion kötődik három hisztidin oldallánchoz és a szubsztrát hasítandó csoportjához, tetratéderes elrendeződésben. A rögzített geometria miatt a vizsgált Ni(II), Cd(II) és Cu(II), idegen fémionok kötődését a fehérjéhez csak annak apo (fémmentes) formájában mutattuk ki. Kompetitív körölmények között a fehérje cink-kötött formában van. Az eddigi ismeretektől eltérően, úgy találtuk, hogy a fehérje fémion távollétében is működőképes. Ugyanakkor, a Ni(II) ion lényegesen megnöveli a katalitikus aktivitást, valószínűleg a folyamat mechanizmusának megváltoztatásával. Ez a fémion a fehérje és a szubszrát mellett egy vízmolekulát is megköthet, amelyet aktiválva hatékony nukleofil támadó ágens jön létre. A tanulmányozott enzimek a bakteriális védekezőrendszer részét képezik, így reményeink szerint, eredményeink hozzájárulnak hatékonyabb antibiotikumok kifejlesztéséhez.
Ebstein's Anomaly With Right Atrial Thrombus in 23 Years Old Man at Reference National Teaching Hospital of Ndjamena: A Case Report.
Authors: Mahamat-Azaki Oumar , Zakaria Zakaria Abdel-madjid , Ali Adam Ahamat , Allawaye Lucien , Oumkalsoum AbdelKerim , Anzouan-Kacou Jean Baptiste
Published: October 2024

Ebstein’s anomaly is a rare congenital heart disease. It is usually associated with other congenital defects, particularly atrial septal defect/patent foramen ovale (PFO). We report here the case of Ebstein's disease revealed in a 23-year-old adult admitted for palpitations and exertional dyspnoea. He was in heart failure. The EKG showed atrial flutter . Cardiomegaly was present with a cardiothoracic index of 0.7. On echocardiography, the apical displacement of the tricuspid septal leaflet was 15 mm/m2 , the Celermajer index was Grade 3. There was a large thrombus floating in the right atrium. While awaiting surgical management, the patient was being treated with diuretics, digitalis and anticoagulants.
Loneliness and Bedtime Procrastination: Exploring a Model of Interconnectedness Among Young Adults in Germany
Authors: Trost Sarah , Hast Michael
Published: October 2024

Background/Aim
This study aimed to examine the relationship between loneliness and bedtime procrastination in young adults in Germany, offering critical insights into the development and maintenance of both conditions. Specifically, it sought to test a new model that connects these two psychological constructs.

Materials and Methods
A quantitative online survey was conducted with 500 young adults (Mage = 23.3, 83.6% female). Loneliness was assessed using the UCLA Loneliness Scale, while bedtime procrastination was measured using the Bedtime Procrastination Scale.

Results
The results show a significant positive correlation between loneliness and bedtime procrastination in young adults. Sleep quality was also found to significantly correlate positively with loneliness as well as with bedtime procrastination.

Conclusion
The findings provide a crucial framework for understanding the relationship between the two psychological constructs of loneliness and bedtime procrastination. Implications for possible future interventions are discussed.
A Roadmap to Developing a Population-Based Colorectal Cancer Screening Program in Oman
Authors: AlKalbani Salma Rashid , Smith Alan
Published: October 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health problem worldwide, as it is the third most common disease and the second leading cause of cancer-related fatalities. In recent years, Oman, like many other countries, has seen an epidemiological shift from communicable diseases to noncommunicable diseases, including colorectal cancer, necessitating comprehensive planning to address the root cause of the problem as well as a comprehensive screening program to detect diseases at an early stage and thus improve health outcomes. Colorectal cancer is the second most frequent cancer in Oman, with the highest mortality rate, inflicting considerable public health and economic consequences; nevertheless, there is no population-based CRC screening programme in place to minimise the disease's incidence, mortality, and severe health outcomes. This review highlights the epidemiology of colorectal cancer in Oman, the Wilson and Junger criteria, operational readiness, and recommendations for implementing a population-based colorectal cancer screening program.
Origem e persistência dos grupos intencionais
Authors: Oliveira Alves Adriana
Published: October 2024

Resumo: Neste artigo, discuto a origem e persistência dos grupos intencionais ao longo do tempo, defendendo que os grupos intencionais são uma consciência coletiva que possui como critério de identidade uma crença na razão de sua existência, e que persistem no tempo à medida que essa crença se faz contínua. Para isso, em ontologia social, discuto a estrutura de grupos e aplico a teoria dos estágios para tratar da persistência no contexto coletivo. Já em intencionalidade coletiva, defendo que os grupos possuem seus próprios estados mentais e aplico a teoria da continuidade psicológica para tratar da identidade de grupos. Argumento que o critério de identidade do grupo enquanto uma crença está intrinsecamente relacionada à sua origem e é o elemento que deve permanecer fixo, mesmo que o grupo sofra outras mudanças. O meu propósito é expandir as discussões filosóficas e aprimorar a nossa compreensão acerca de grupos intencionais.
Palavras-chave: Grupo Intencional; Persistência; Identidade; Ontologia Social; Intencionalidade Coletiva
Origin and persistence of intentional groups
Abstract: In this article, I discuss the origin and persistence of intentional groups over time, arguing that intentional groups are a collective consciousness that has as an identity criterion a belief in the reason for their existence, and that they persist over time as this belief becomes continuous. To do this, in social ontology, I discuss the structure of groups and apply the stage theory to address persistence in the collective context. In collective intentionality, I argue that groups have their own mental states and apply the theory of psychological continuity to deal with group identity. I argue that the group's identity criterion as a belief is intrinsically related to its origin and is the element that must remain fixed, even if the group undergoes other changes. My purpose is to expand philosophical discussions and improve our understanding of intentional groups.
Keywords: Intentional Group; Persistence; Identity; Social Ontology; Collective Intentionality
 
Data de registro: 19/07/2023
Data de aceite: 26/04/2024
Comparative analysis of the efficacy of different treatment strategies in medication overuse headache: an open-label prospective trial
Authors: Sergeev A. V. , Guziy E. A. , Kovalchuk N. A. , Sokolov E. A. , Grigoriev G. V. , Tabeeva G. R.
Published: October 2024

Medication overuse headache (MOH) is a common form of chronic headache with a high risk of relapse after therapy. Excessive use of analgesics most frequently leads to the development of MOH in migraine patients.

Objective: to analyze the short- and long-term efficacy of MOH therapy in patients with chronic migraine (CM) using different programs to discontinue the abused drug and a detoxification regimen.

Material and methods. The study included 44 patients with MOH and CM who were divided into two groups. Group A comprised 18 patients who discontinued the drug that triggered MOH and were simultaneously prescribed preventive treatment for migraine without undergoing "detoxification" therapy". Group B comprised 26 patients who received a multimodal therapeutic strategy including "detoxification treatment".

Results. The strategy of complex therapy with a "detoxification treatment" was significantly more effective during the 12-month observation period. In group B, a significant (p<0.01) decrease in the number of days with migraine per month was observed (before therapy – 22.6±7.4 days, after 3 months – 15.1±8.9 days, after 6 months – 12.7±9.1 days and after 12 months – 10.2±8.7 days). In the first 6 months, a similar dynamic was observed in group A, whereby the frequency of migraine increased in the 12th month of observation. Twelve months after the start of therapy, migraine occurred in episodes in the majority (84%) of patients in group B, which is significantly more than in group A (58.9%; p<0.01).

Conclusion. A comprehensive approach in the treatment of patients with CM and MOH with "detoxification" therapy" showed high efficacy in terms of reducing the number of headache days per month and converting CM to episodic migraine.
Evaluation of the efficacy of preventive therapy in chronic migraine with or without medication overuse headache: data from a prospective study
Authors: Guziy E. A. , Sergeev A. V. , Tabeeva G. R.
Published: October 2024

Chronic migraine (CM) affects three out of every hundred people. As the frequency of attacks increases, so does the frequency of painkillers usage, and 85% of patients with CM are also diagnosed with medication overuse headache (MOH).

Objective: to investigate the efficacy of preventive therapy of CM with or without MOH.

Material and methods. The study involved 117 patients with CM and MOH (group 1) and 23 patients with CM without MOH (group 2), patients were examined at the initial visit and after 3 and 9 months of follow-up. All patients in the 1st group (CM+MOH) received a 7-day "detoxification" therapy. Patients in both groups were given an educational and information session on the type of their diagnosis, treatment methods and lifestyle correction. The choice of a preventive treatment in both groups was based on the current clinical recommendations, algorithms of modern international guidelines, concomitant pathology, the presence of contraindications in a particular patient, tolerability, as well as territorial and economic factors.

Results. A positive effect was found in both groups, regardless of the presence of MOH. The lack of significant differences between the groups of CM with/without MOH is probably due to the use of "detoxification" therapy and the cessation/restriction of the use of the drug of abuse in all patients with CM and MOH, although a more pronounced positive dynamics is observed in patients of the 2nd group (CM without MOH), which in turn emphasizes the severity of the disease, the greater disability and the poorer prognosis for response to preventive treatment in the presence of MOH. It was found that one third of patients in the study favored monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) due to convenience, rapid onset of action and tolerability. In the group of patients with MOH, the best results were obtained when using injection methods of treatment (anti-CGRP mAbs, botulinum therapy) or when using combined therapy compared to monotherapy with venlafaxine or topiramate.

Conclusion. All first-line drugs for the CM prophylactic treatment according to the clinical guidelines of the Ministry of Health of Russia are clearly effective, including cases with both CM and MOH. The use of combined therapy in CM with/without MOH can be effective even with a low initial response to one of the monotherapies.
Botanical imaginary of indigeneity and rhizomatic sustainability in Toni Morrison’s A Mercy
Authors: Atieh Majda , Ahmad Ula
Published: October 2024

This article explores a botanical imaginary in A Mercy (2008), the ninth narrative by African American writer and critic Toni Morrison. Arguably, A Mercy features the botanical design of the rhizome to activate a revisionary model of sustainability. In particular, the narrative’s imaginary suggests a synergy that liberates the restrictive root of Indigeneity as a precondition to reconcile a tension of rigid binaries with the customary routes that lead to closure. This reconciliation will enunciate a radical break with the limited sustainability paradigms that are still constitutive of colonial modernity. Arguably, A Mercy features a transgressive array of journeys whose rhizomatic root of biodiversity transcends what is cultivated in the colonial American soil and mobilizes symbiotic and liberatory sustainability for humans and non-humans. Deleuze and Guattari’s principles of the “rhizome” philosophy contribute a main theoretical framework for construing the narrative’s botanical composition that suspends the inequitable realization of sustainability.
The Economic Impact of Arms Spending in Germany, Italy, and Spain
Authors: Stamegna Marco , Bonaiuti Chiara , Maranzano Paolo , Pianta Mario
Published: October 2024

In the last 10 years, military expenditures of NATO EU countries (according to NATO definitions and data) have increased by almost 50 %, from €145 billion in 2014 to €215 billion in 2023. In this context, it is important to assess the economic consequences that the current increase in military spending is likely to have on Europe’s economies. We focus on Germany, Italy and Spain, and we concentrate on arms acquisitions. The article investigates the economic effect of military expenditure on growth and employment and compares it to the impact that could emerge from a similar expenditure for education, health and the environment. We use an input–output methodology – already adopted by several studies – to assess the relevance of imports and of demand towards different sectors providing intermediate inputs. We assess the likely impact on output and jobs of one billion euros of extra spending in arms, and compare it to the outcomes of the same amount spent in education, health and the environment. Our findings show that for all countries non-military public expenditures have a greater impact on the economy and employment than spending for arms acquisition.
Alexithymia and Personality Pathology
Authors: Winterstein Sabrina , Mazzucchelli Trevor G. , Gross James J. , Krueger Robert F. , Preece David A.
Published: October 2024

Alexithymia is an important transdiagnostic risk factor for many psychopathologies. To explore its relevance for personality disorders, we examined the association between alexithymia and maladaptive personality traits, as conceptualized within the DSM-5-TR Alternative Model for Personality Disorders (i.e., negative affect, detachment, antagonism, disinhibition, psychoticism). Participants (N = 651) completed a battery of psychometric questionnaires. Regressions revealed that alexithymia facets accounted for a significant 15% of the variance in negative affect, 22% in detachment, 11% in antagonism, 18% in disinhibition, and 25% in psychoticism. Latent profile analysis showed that profiles with more severe personality pathology were generally characterized by more severe levels of alexithymia. Overall, our data highlight that alexithymia is important in understanding personality dysfunction. All facets of alexithymia, across both positive and negative emotions, are linked to each maladaptive personality trait. The assessment and targeting of alexithymia may therefore be of high relevance for the treatment of personality pathology.
ZERDEÇAL EKSTRAKTI KULLANIMININ KEFİRİN BAZI FİZİKOKİMYASAL ÖZELLİKLERİNE ETKİSİ
Authors: Coşkun Hayri , Albayrak Beyza , Helal Maria , Dhyaa Suaad , Öztürk Büşra Beyza , Ertem Merve
Published: October 2024

Bu araştırmada, zerdeçal ekstraktı ilavesinin kefirin bazı fizikokimyasal özelliklerine etkisi incelenmiştir. Bu amaçla çiğ inek sütü 80-85 °C arasında 10 dakika pastörize edilerek 25-28 °C’ye soğutulmuş ve içerisine kefir starteri katılmıştır. Ayrı ayrı kaplarda hazırlanan süt örneklerine %0 (kontrol), 2, 4, 6, 8 ve 10 oranlarında zerdeçal ekstraktı ilave edilerek pH 4.6’ya düşene kadar fermente edilmiştir. Fermantasyondan önce ve sonra, depolamanın 1., 7. ve 14. günlerinde kefirin bazı özellikleri analiz edilmiştir. Elde edilen sonuçlara göre, zerdeçal ilave edilmiş örneklerde viskozite ve serum ayrılması değerleri kontrole göre yüksek (P >0.05) çıkmıştır. Zerdeçal oranları viskozite ve serum ayrılması değerlerini etkilememiştir (P <0.05). Kefire zerdeçal ekstraktı ilavesi renk L*, a* ve b* değerleri ile duyusal renk, yapı, koku, tat ve genel beğeni puanlarını etkilemiştir (P <0.05). Kefir örneklerine 21 mL (%6) ve 14 mL (%4) zerdeçal ekstraktı ilave edilmesi, tüketici beğenisine farklı bir tat ve aroma alternatifi sunması bakımından başarılı bulunmuştur.
A simulation investigation of barium phosphate glasses enhanced with vanadium and tellurium ions for X- and gamma energies attenuation
Authors:   Nuclear Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80204, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia., Damoom M. M. , Alhawsawi A.M. ,   Nuclear Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80204, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia., Moustafa E.B. ,   Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80204, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia., Hammad A. H. ,   Center of Nanotechnology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
Published: October 2024

Barium phosphate glass with fixed barium oxide (BaO) at 40 mol% and vanadium oxide (V2O5) at 1 mol% was successfully synthesized by the melt quenching process. Different concentrations of tellurium oxide (TeO2) were introduced at the expense of the phosphate groups (P2O5) to improve and modify the elastic and radiation shielding properties. The elastic parameters were calculated from the Makishima-Mackenzie model. The radiation shielding parameters were simulated and studied using the XCOM database to check the availability of such glass to withstand the X-ray and gamma energies.
Threonine In Different Phenotypes Of Chronic Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Maria F. Petrukhnova , Anastasia V. Krivova , Vita Yu. Zektser , Ekaterina O. Korobkova , Tamerlan N. Edniev , Anton A. Ageev , Ksenia M. Shestakova , Natalya E. Moskaleva , Svetlana A. Appolonova , Yury N. Belenkov , Maria V. Kozhevnikova
Published: October 2024

Background — Chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (CHFpEF) develops as a result of many diseases that lead to significant metabolic disorders. Given the heterogeneity of this group of patients, therapeutic options for this syndrome are extremely limited. In this regard, it seems promising to study the metabolomic profile in patients with CHFpEF to identify biomarkers, examine their roles in the pathogenesis of the syndrome, and search for potential targets for targeted therapy. Objective — The study aimed at testing the correlation between the threonine level and the features of the clinical course of CHFpEF. Methods — The study included a total of 154 patients: 82 with CHFpEF, 45 with hypertension and/or coronary artery disease (comparison group), and 27 healthy volunteers (control group). Threonine levels were assessed using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results — The threonine concentration was significantly reduced in patients with CHFpEF (1) vs. comparison group (2) and control group (3): p<0.001; p1-3<0.001; p2-3=0.037). A reduction in the threonine level was characteristic for patients with diabetes mellitus vs. patients without it (p=0.029). Conclusion — Given the importance of threonine in energy metabolism and significant changes in its level in various pathophysiological processes, it should be considered as an additional diagnostic and prognostic criterion for CHFpEF. Additional studies are needed to better understand the role of threonine in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases.
Reproducibility Of Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer And Macular Volume Measurements In Patients Receiving Retinal Protection Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Dorofeev Dmitry A. , Antonov Aleksey A. , Kozlova Irina V. , Kirilik Elena V. , Ksenia O. Lukyanova , Pozdeeva Olga G. , Solovieva Olga B. , Tsyganov Artem Z.
Published: October 2024

Background — High-quality monitoring of the glaucoma plays an important role in the early diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, for which structural optical coherence tomography (OCT) is used. Technology that increases the repeatability and reproducibility of OCT may differ in different devices, thereby yielding different results. Objective — To assess the effect of the frequency of retinal protection pharmacotherapy courses on quantitative data regarding the macular volume and the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) measured by two instruments, SPECTRALIS and OPTOPOL, and also to evaluate the agreement between the data collected by these devices. Material and Methods — We monitored 17 patients (34 eyes) diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma in the advanced stage from 2019 to 2023. Group 1 including 9 patients (18 eyes) received a course of retinal protection pharmacotherapy with Retinalamin® at an interval of 3 months, while Group 2 comprising 8 patients (16 eyes) received similar treatment at an interval of 6 months. All observed patients underwent structural OCT on REVO NX (OPTOPOL Technology) and SPECTRALIS devices at the onset of the study, as well as after 3 and 6 months. Results — The agreement between the two devices in measuring RNFL thickness was estimated by the Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (LCCC): in manual mode, LCCCstart=0.69 (95% CI: 0.51-0.81); while in automatic mode, LCCCstart=0.73 (95% CI: 0.57-0.84). The agreement between the macular volume measurements was as follows: in manual mode, LCCCstart=0.21 (95% CI: 0.21-0.29); while in automatic mode, LCCCstart=0.21 (95% CI: 0.21-0.29). Conclusion — The agreement between the SPECTRALIS and OPTOPOL devices in terms of RNFL thickness should be considered substantial, while in terms of macular volume, it should be classified as fair. As measured in the manual mode, the RNFL thickness in both groups receiving Retinalamin increased, which can be interpreted as a favorable effect of retinal protection pharmacotherapy.
Comparison of 1D, coupled 1D–2D, and 2D shallow water numerical modeling for dam-break flow analysis of Way-Ela dam, Indonesia
Authors: Lim Metta , Ginting Bobby Minola , Senjaya Theo , Kieswanti Christine
Published: October 2024

This study analyzes the flood inundation area using shallow water numerical modeling with HEC-RAS 6.3 software by comparing 1D, coupled 1D–2D, and 2D approaches. As a case study, the 2013 Way-Ela dam-break event in Indonesia is selected. Way-Ela Dam naturally formed by landslides in 2012, collapsed due to a piping mechanism after a heavy rainfall event. To estimate the breach outflow hydrograph, an empirical parametric model based on regression formula is used. Compared with the observed data, the numerical results show the 2D model produces the most accurate results among others, with reasonable computational time, while the 1D model, despite being computationally very efficient, misinterprets the flood extent map. The coupled 1D–2D model produces results similar to that of the 2D model; however, this coupled approach, which is expected to be more computationally efficient than the 2D one, interestingly yields a significantly longer calculation time. Some possible reasons are thus discussed. Additionally, comparisons for the water level and velocity are also presented in several locations to point out the difference between each model. Our finding informs the selection of an appropriate hydrodynamic model for dam-break simulations, balancing the result accuracy and computational cost.
Co-composting of food waste and leaves as a way to improve soil microbial activity and green-gram growth
Authors: Rejiniemon Thankappan Sarasam , Raishy Hussain Rejula , Bhamadevi Rajamani , Rajagopal Rajakrishnan , Alfarhan Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Mixtures of vegetable waste and leaves were used to prepare compost in piles. The carbon/nitrogen ratios of the biomass varied among the selected agricultural waste. Co-composting was carried out for six weeks with a starter culture. The organic matter of the leaves declined after four weeks of composting, and a stable compost was obtained after 42 days of composting. The compost temperature reached its maximum after 12 days and moisture content declined continuously up to 42 days. The pH value of the compost increased slowly during composting and reached a maximum after six weeks. The electrical conductivity of the compost was suitable for plant nutrition. The organic matter, as organic carbon, declined, and organic nitrogen was increased. The carbon/nitrogen ratio of the mature compost was decreased. The decreased levels of carbon/nitrogen ratio reflected the maturity of the compost. The organic matter (%) was maximum (>50%) before composting process and it decreased gradually. The seed germination index was higher after 42 days of composting. The compost-treated plant improved yield and green gram seeds showed the presence of antioxidant enzymes.
Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of essential oils from orange peels and eucalyptus leaves wastes
Authors: Sagaste Carlos A. , Coronado Marcos A. , Ayala José R. , Rojano Benjamín A. , Montes Daniela G. , García Conrado , Valenzuela Edgar
Published: October 2024

Oranges and eucalyptus trees are abundant sources of waste and pruning, generating secondary streams that can be converted into valuable products. Both species are broadly cultivated in Mexico. Essential oils from orange peels and eucalyptus leaves possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, making them useful in various applications. In this study, the essential oils antioxidant potential was determined through radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing capacity, and the total phenolic content was measured. These essential oils also demonstrated inhibition capacity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. GC-MS analysis of the oils revealed the composition of representative compounds, with D-limonene constituting almost 75% of the orange essential oil and 1,8-cineol comprising 15.2% of the eucalyptus oil. The antioxidant test results between essential oils showed that they are similar, except for the FRAP test, where eucalyptus essential oil obtained a value three times higher than orange essential oil. The findings suggest that these essential oils can serve as natural and sustainable alternatives to synthetic antimicrobial and antioxidant agents.