bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studying the Experience of Working with Chemotherapy Drugs among Nursing Specialists in Oncology Clinics of the Kazakhstan
Authors:   National Research Oncological Center, Zainulina Jamilya , Sipenova Aigerim ,   National Research Oncology Center
Published: May 2024

The purpose of the study to describe the nursing practices related to the administration of chemotherapy and aims to assess the level of competence among nursing professionals, identify challenges encountered while working with chemotherapy, and evaluate the safety conditions in their workplace. Methods. This study presents a cross-sectional design using a quantitative method. The participants in this study are nursing specialists actively engaged in handling chemotherapy drugs in three prominent clinics in the Republic of Kazakhstan, which offer medical care to patients with oncohematological and oncological conditions affecting the respiratory, urinary, and digestive systems. A total of 70 completed questionnaires were collected from nursing professionals working in these clinics. The data collected was statistically analyzed using STATA 14 statistical software. The analysis focused on assessing educational qualifications, workload, workplace safety climate, and the complexity of nursing practices for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Results. The majority of participants are relatively young professionals with limited experience in working with chemotherapy drugs and no specialized training in this field. Overall, participants displayed a reasonable understanding of breeding conditions, the effects of chemotherapy drugs, the use of PPE and the implementation of preventive measures when handling them. However, there was a lack of awareness regarding the proper transportation of chemotherapy drugs and the requisite protocols for the disposal of medical and biological waste generated by patients receiving chemotherapy. The study revealed that clinics where participants were interviewed offered mentoring and peer support programs. According to participants, the primary challenges in working with chemotherapy revolved around caring for patients experiencing chemotherapy-related side effects, mainly due to the high workload and the inherent toxicity of chemotherapy. Nevertheless, most participants indicated that workplace safety conditions were maintained at a high level. Conclusion. This study provides valuable insights into the practices of nursing specialists involved in administering chemotherapy in multiple oncology clinics within the Republic of Kazakhstan. It sheds light on the experiences of these professionals and offers a comprehensive understanding of the existing conditions and challenges faced when delivering chemotherapy to patients.
Gender Disparities in Care Allocation among Informal Elderly Caregivers: A literature Review
Authors:   West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Koshmaganbetova Gulbakit , Zhylkybekova Aliya ,   West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Abenova Nurgul ,   West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Glushkova Natalya ,   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
Published: May 2024

To comprehensively understand of the informal caregiving experience, it is essential to conduct an in-depth investigation into the caregiving context, including gender, family dynamics, and the caregiver's cultural background. Among these factors, considerable research attention has been dedicated to examining the impact of gender on caregiving. The objective of this study is to scrutinize studies that explore the association between informal care and the well-being of caregivers, with a particular focus on gender disparities within the caregiving domain. A systematic literature retrieval was conducted by querying the Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The search strategy incorporated specific Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms, including "informal care", "caregiver", "health problems", "employment difficulties", "social problems", "gender", and "gender disparities". Earlier investigations into gender distinctions among caregivers for older adults have demonstrated a predominance of female caregivers, disparities in caregiving experiences, mental and physical health-related challenges, time allocation dedicated to caregiving, exposure to unpaid labor, inequalities in the distribution of unpaid work, caregiving responsibilities, and economic implications, including disparities in remuneration and pension entitlements. To promote gender equality and achieve a balance between family and work responsibilities for both men and women, there is a need to redistribute informal caregiving tasks between genders and between family and government entities. Key policy measures to address gender disparities in the provision of home care services at a national level can be grouped into four main categories: improving the quality, accessibility, and availability of long-term care; including gender considerations in the design and implementation of family leave policies and flexible work arrangements; removing economic barriers for caregivers' employment; and challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes.
Solid Organ Transplantation in Kazakhstan: A Review on Current Situation and Challenges
Authors:   University Medical Center, Pya Yuryi , Abdiorazova Aigerim ,   University Medical Center, Altynova Sholpan ,   University Medical Center, Daniyarova Gulnur ,   University Medical Center, Asanova Aruzhan ,   University Medical Center, Shaysultanova Saule ,   University Medical Center
Published: May 2024

Transplantation is one of the important strategic directions of medicine in Kazakhstan, which has been intensively developing in recent years. Noteworthy progress is observed in the implementation of advanced transplantation technologies aligned with global standards within scientific institutions and regional clinics across the country. However, there are certain problems in this field associated with the shortage of organs, transplantation for individuals in advanced disease stages, the growing need for re-transplantation, and adverse effects associated with immunosuppressive therapy. In this review, we aim to summarize the current situation of solid organ transplantation in Kazakhstan and the challenges hindering transplantation in the country. A literature search encompassing the Cochrane Library, Medline, and EMBASE, spanning until December 2023, was conducted. Search was done manually and using the following keywords: transplantation in Kazakhstan, liver transplantation, kidney transplantation, heart transplantation, coordination centers, and immunosuppression. For the effective work of the transplant coordination service and the provision of donors to the population, an integrated approach is needed, including organization of educational campaigns to disseminate information among the population, expanding the network of transplant coordination centers, creating a donation model based on the presumption of consent, and eliminating the free disposal of human organs.
Rulings on Excess Wealth of Unknown Sources According to Islamic Law
Authors: Liaqat Abdulwahed
Published: May 2024

Islamic law places a paramount emphasis on safeguarding wealth and preserving it from loss, and it deems its preservation as one of the objectives of Sharia. Islamic law views wealth in a general sense and regards unexplained surplus wealth from a humanitarian perspective. The aim is to elucidate the comprehensiveness, adaptability, and relevance of Islamic Sharia, demonstrating its capability to address contemporary needs by providing rulings that uphold benefits, prevent harm, and contribute to enlightening people about the principles of wealth preservation. Contemporary and emerging issues are numerous and require clarification of their legal rulings, particularly new forms such as the treatment of abandoned funds in customs, the status of deposits in commercial banks, the handling of profits in banks with unknown owners, funds in the possession of money changers, and those held in exchange centers. These issues fall under the purview of Islamic jurisprudence, akin to the concept of "lost property," due to their significant importance in jurisprudential deliberations and contemporary practical applications. The resultant conclusion is that surplus funds of unknown origin are treated akin to lost property. Contemporary and emerging matters necessitate a legal ruling, and if the owner of such funds cannot be found, they are generally allocated to charitable causes, which are broader than the concept of Muslim interests. These causes encompass various charitable endeavors, such as aiding the poor and constructing mosques, as they are considered avenues of charity.
Validation of the Indigenous Technical Knowledge of Cattle Pastoralists of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, India
Authors:   chool of Arts and Design, Woxsen University, Sangareddy District, Hyderabad - 502 345. India.  Email: kanna.siripurapu@gmail.com, Siripurapu Kanna K. , Moola Faisal ,   Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics at the University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1. Email: fmoola@uoguelph.ca, Sharma Shilpi ,   Telangana State Biodiversity Board, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.  Email: shilpibiodiversity@gmail.com, Sainger Anushree ,   MART Global Management Solutions, Sutra Consulting Pvt. Ltd., Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.  Email: anushreesinghvns@gmail.com, Kotamraju Kameswara Rao ,   Department of Environmental Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, India.  Email: kotamrajukkrao@gmail.com
Published: May 2024

Indigenous technical knowledge (ITK) of livestock breeding is often tacit and not necessarily expressed in conventional forms of scientific research and documentation. Indigenous livestock breeding systems rely mostly on qualitative traits than pure quantitative qualities. Qualitative traits are difficult to measure and most of the indigenous knowledge systems are in forms of qualitative traits. The lack of documentation and predominant qualitative nature makes it difficult to validate the ITK related to livestock breeding. In this context a study was conducted to examine the traditional breeding practices associated with two heritage cattle breeds of the Deccan Plateau region of India. The study examines the criteria used for selection of the breeding bulls of the indigenous Poda Thurpu and Nallmala-Pasa/Kamma, cattle breeds native to the study area. Results of the study identifies fourteen traits specific to breeding bulls and four traits that are generic to the breeding stock/cows. These traits/characteristics are ‘deemed desirable’ by the local cattle breeders for the ‘heritage breeds’, believed to have been bred and managed by them for generations. Observations of the present study supports the notion that traditional breeders of heritage breeds lay more emphasis on qualitative traits (ability to warding-off predators, fending off-springs, coat colour and texture, gait of the animal, temperament, and response and obedience to instructions of the master) than quantitative traits. It was found that local breeders give significant importance to the fertility of bovine bulls than cows. Breeding bulls are meticulously chosen with extreme caution and care, following a very long and meticulous selection process that could last for four years. Traditionally local cattle breeders of the study follow open nucleus breeding system for breeding and are strictly against promotion of inbreeding among their cattle herds. Only men are involved in cattle breeding in the study area and women usually stay away.
Ortaokul Matematik Dersi Öğretim Programının ve Ders Kitaplarının Bilgi ve İletişim Teknolojileri Kullanımına Yönlendirme Açısından İncelenmesi
Authors: Tural Sönmez Melike
Published: May 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı Türkiye’de kullanılan 2018 yılı ortaokul matematik dersi öğretim programının (OMDÖK) ve 2021 yılı Talim Terbiye tarafından beş yıl kullanılması onaylanmış olan ortaokul matematik ders kitaplarının (OMDK) Bilgi ve İletişim Teknolojilerine (BİT) yönlendirme açısından incelenmesidir. Araştırmada nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden doküman analizi kullanılmıştır. Analizin ilk aşamasında 2018 yılı OMDÖK’te yer alan kazanımlardan BİT kullanımına yönlendirmesine uygun olanlar tespit edilmiş ve tespit edilen bu kazanımlar sınıf seviyesine ve öğrenme alanlarına göre betimsel analize tabi tutulmuştur. Araştırmanın ikinci aşamasında ise OMDK’te yer alan BİT kullanımı içeren sorular, etkinlikler, problemler ve konu anlatımları OMDÖK’te belirlenen öğrenme alanına, alt öğrenme alanına ve kazanımlara göre betimsel, BİT araçlarının çeşidine ve kullanım amaçlarına göre de içerik analizine tabi tutulmuş; frekansları hesaplanmıştır.   Yapılan incelemede 2018 yılı OMDÖK’de yer alan 21 kazanımda BİT yönlendirilmesi tespit edilmiş, bu yönlendirmelerin geometri ve ölçme, veri işleme ve cebir öğrenme alanlarında bulunduğu saptanmıştır.  Ayrıca OMDK’ te yer alan BİT araçlarının kullanımının oldukça düşük olduğu (%1 ile %5 arasında) ve en çok sekizinci sınıf seviyesinde geometri ve ölçme alanlarında yer aldığı tespit edilmiştir. OMDK’te en çok yer alan BİT aracının matematik içerikli yazılımlar ve bilimsel hesap makineleri olduğu ve bu araçların bilgileri açıklamak, ardından kavram inşası ve alıştırma yapmak amacıyla kullanıldığı tespit edilmiştir.
8. Sınıf Öğrencilerinin Lise Tercihlerinin Belirlenmesinde Davranış Yatkınlığı Algılarının İncelenmesi
Authors: Duman Demet , Süral Serhat
Published: May 2024

Davranışlar düşüncelerin, isteklerin görünüşe yansımasıdır. Davranışları içeren bu yansımalar seçimleri de etkilemektedir. Bu araştırmanın amacı ise 8. sınıf öğrencilerinin lise tercihlerinin belirlenmesinde geliştirilen Davranış Yatkınlığı Algı Ölçeğini kullanarak, bu öğrencilerin davranış yatkınlığı algılarını bazı alt problemler doğrultusunda incelemektir. Araştırmanın evrenini 8. sınıfta öğrenim görmekte olan, Aydın ve Denizli ili merkezinde bulunan devlet ve özel ortaokullardaki toplam 26. 906 öğrenci oluşturmuştur. Bu bağlamda örneklem için her iki ilde de eşit sayıda olacak şekilde toplam 700 öğrenci uygulamaya katılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda 8. sınıf öğrencilerinin lise tercihlerinde bilişsel alana yatkın oldukları ortaya çıkmıştır. Bu öğrencilere bilişsel yönde olan davranış yatkınlığı algılarına göre lise türü olarak Anadolu, fen, sosyal bilimler liselerinde başarılı olabileceği ön görülerek, bu yönde öğrencilere yöneltme hizmeti sunulabilir.
Membangun Platform Digital Desa Margamulya Tanjung Kait Untuk Menuju Masyarakat Society 5.0
Authors: Hayat Cynthia , Marcel Marcel , Putro Endi , Windarto Yudhi , Perangin Angin Prasasti , Mudita Damida Shu , Setiawan Theodorous Stevanus , Christian Juan , Putratama Andhika , Christian Neil
Published: May 2024

The village of Margamulya Tj. Kait is one of the foster villages of LPPM Ukrida. From the results of interviews and direct observations, there are several main issues faced by partners, including: limited access and dissemination of financial information and village profiles to external parties as well as to the villagers themselves. Community service is conducted by utilizing technology to develop a digital village community ecosystem where social media-based platforms serve as everyday communication, socialization, and collaboration tools. The implementation method is carried out through: (1) development of social media platforms; (2) training on platform usage. With the developed social media platform program, the target output is achieved through the evaluation of activities, where the benefit of interaction between village officials and villagers, as well as the dissemination and access to important information, becomes easier. Keywords: digital platform; village digitalization; digital village; margamulya village
PEMBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT INDRALAYA RAYAMELALUI INTRODUKSI TEKNOLOGI SOLAR DRYING BIJI LOTUS (Nelumbo nucifera) LIAR
Authors: Ridhowati Sherly
Published: May 2024

The use of natural water resources in the surrounding area must be utilized optimally through local source diversification activities, especially in Indralaya Raya village, Indralaya District, Ogan Ilir Regency. Availability of lotus seeds is abundant especially during rainy season but has not been utilized optimally. In services program,  the introduction of solar drying technology was carried out through outreach and assistance to Village residents, especially youth organizations and micro small medium enterprises (UMKM), regarding the application of technology used for the drying process of lotus seeds, so that the dried lotus seeds could be stored longer for further used, then the next activity continued with the processing of diversified flour products and their derivatives. The success of this activity has shown that the Indralaya Raya residents were enthusiastic about this service activity as shown by the activity achievement indicators. Socialization and assistance activities on the use of solar-powered dryers and the manufacture of flour products and their derivatives have had a positive impact on the Indralaya Raya village community in empowering the activities of youth organizations and UMKMs.
The (Anarchic) Gift of Gelassenheit: On an Undeveloped Motif in Derrida's Donner le temps II
Authors: Moore Ian Alexander
Published: May 2024

In his recently published Donner le temps II, Derrida raises, but does not develop, the possibility that Heidegger's notion of Gelassenheit (‘releasement’, ‘letting-be’) might escape the economic confines of exchange, debt, and repayment and therefore qualify as a pure gift. In this paper, I explore this possibility, explaining that Gelassenheit would have to be understood, first, not primarily as a human comportment but at the level of being itself, second, beyond appropriation, and third, as ‘without why’. If Heidegger's focus on appropriation in ‘Time and Being’ remains entangled in the economy of exchange (as Derrida insinuates in the final session of Donner le temps II), Heidegger's anarchic treatment of ‘letting’ ( laisser, Lassen) in the final session of his 1969 seminar in Le Thor opens instead onto a ‘pure giving’ ( pur donner, reines Geben).
Gift and Respect: Heidegger's Kant as Taught by Derrida
Authors: Senatore Mauro
Published: May 2024

In this article, I focus on the reading of Heidegger's Kant that Derrida offers in his recently published 1978-9 seminar Donner le temps II (§§12–3). Here Derrida tracks across Heidegger's text the auto-affective or auto-dative structure (namely, the originary synthesis of spontaneity and receptivity) in which the Kantian conceptions of the experience of time and of transcendental imagination converge, and which is seen as scandalously underpinning the conception of respect. In particular, I draw attention to the moment in which Derrida originally accounts for the structure of the Kantian respect as the movement of abandonment or delivery over to the event which he also ascribes to other figures of freedom (or unconditionality without sovereignty) explored in his later writings. My hypothesis is that, in doing so, Derrida may be building a bridge between two thoughts of imagination: on the one hand, imagination as a figure of his early differance, and, on the other hand, imagination as the non-sovereign freedom that undergirds his late work on sovereignty.
‘A Systematic and Intensive Trawl’: Éilís Ní Dhuibhne’s Audio Recordings for the Urban Folklore Project
Authors: Ógáin Ríonach uí
Published: May 2024

Éilis Ní Dhuibhne worked with the Urban Folklore Project – which is now part of the National Folklore Collection at UCD – from 1979 to 1980. She was appointed one of six supervisors in this ambitious project, working on a full-time basis and documenting Dublin lore. She made audio recordings, took photographs, wrote notes, made video recordings, devised and circulated questionnaires and also kept a diary. She collected in farflung places such as Ringsend, Mulhuddart and Ballymun and she interviewed countless people from school children to near-centenarians. This article lists the audio recordings made by Éilís for the project. A manuscript volume in the National Folklore Collection gives a listing in numerical order of the audio tapes made by the collectors for the Urban Folklore Project. This listing includes the names of the collector and the informant and also indicates which tapes have been transcribed and bound in volumes within the National Folklore Collection.
TALEN-mediated homologous-recombination-based fibroin light chain in-fusion expression system in Bombyx mori
Authors: Yu Shihua , Zheng Huoqing , Ye Xiaogang , Dai Xiangping , Wang Xinqiu , Zhao Shuo , Dai Xiaoyan , Zhong Boxiong
Published: May 2024

Silkworm was the first domesticated insect and has important economic value. It has also become an ideal model organism with applications in genetic and expression studies. In recent years, the use of transgenic strategies has made the silkworm silk gland an attractive bioreactor for the production of recombinant proteins, in particular, piggyBac-mediated transgenes. However, owing to differences in regulatory elements such as promoters, the expression levels of exogenous proteins have not reached expectations. Here, we used targeted gene editing to achieve site-specific integration of exogenous genes on genomic DNA and established the fibroin light chain (FibL) in-fusion expression system by TALEN-mediated homology-directed recombination. First, the histidine-rich cuticular protein (CP) was successfully site-directed inserted into the native FibL, and the FibL–CP fusion gene was correctly transcribed and expressed in the posterior silk gland under the control of the endogenous FibL promoter, with a protein expression level comparable with that of the native FibL protein. Moreover, we showed based on molecular docking that the fusion of FibL with cuticular protein may have a negative effect on disulfide bond formation between the C-terminal domain of fibroin heavy chain (FibH) and FibL–CP, resulting in abnormal spinning and cocoon in homozygotes, indicating a significant role of FibL in silk protein formation and secretion. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using the FibL fusion system to express exogenous proteins in silkworm. We expect that this bioreactor system will be used to produce more proteins of interest, expanding the application value of the silk gland bioreactor.
Recent progress in metal oxide-based electrode materials for safe and sustainable variants of supercapacitors
Authors: Asghar Ali , Khan Karim , Hakami Othman , Alamier Waleed M. , Ali Syed Kashif , Zelai Taharh , Rashid Muhammad Shahid , Tareen Ayesha Khan , Al-Harthi Enaam A.
Published: May 2024

A significant amount of energy can be produced using renewable energy sources; however, storing massive amounts of energy poses a substantial obstacle to energy production. Economic crisis has led to rapid developments in electrochemical (EC) energy storage devices (EESDs), especially rechargeable batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors (SCs), which are effective for energy storage systems. Researchers have lately suggested that among the various EESDs, the SC is an effective alternate for energy storage due to the presence of the following characteristics: SCs offer high-power density (PD), improvable energy density (ED), fast charging/discharging, and good cyclic stability. This review highlighted and analyzed the concepts of supercapacitors and types of supercapacitors on the basis of electrode materials, highlighted the several feasible synthesis processes for preparation of metal oxide (MO) nanoparticles, and discussed the morphological effects of MOs on the electrochemical performance of the devices. In this review, we primarily focus on pseudo-capacitors for SCs, which mainly contain MOs and their composite materials, and also highlight their future possibilities as a useful application of MO-based materials in supercapacitors. The novelty of MO’s electrode materials is primarily due to the presence of synergistic effects in the hybrid materials, rich redox activity, excellent conductivity, and chemical stability, making them excellent for SC applications.
Comparative analysis of the variability and impacts of tropical cyclones in flood-prone areas of Zimbabwe
Authors: Hungwe More-Grace , Gumindoga Webster , Manuel Baez Villanueva Oscar , Rwasoka Donald T.
Published: May 2024

Tropical cyclones (TCs) are extreme meteorological events that cause significant deaths, infrastructure damage, and financial losses around the world. In recent years, the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe's have become increasingly vulnerable to TCs caused by Indian Ocean tropical cyclones making landfall more frequently. There is still a limited understanding of the phenomenon and the quantification of its impacts. The aim of this research is to conduct a comparative analysis of the variability in the severity of tropical cyclones by analysing historical storm tracks and mapping the environmental impacts in Zimbabwe's Chimanimani and Chipinge districts. Results indicate that, between 1945 and 2022, the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe experienced 5 of the total 865 cyclones in the Southwest Indian Ocean. The maximum sustained winds from the Cyclone Idai in the Eastern Highlands were recorded as 195 km/h. Some of the remote sensing-based indices used to extract spatial information about the condition of vegetation, wetlands, built-up area, and bar land during pre and post cyclonic events included the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI). Analysis of NDVI in the Eastern Highlands revealed that there was a significant decrease in vegetated area because of the cyclone impact, with a decrease of 2.1% and 16.68% for cyclone Japhet and Idai respectively. The MNDWI shows a 10.74% increase in water content after cyclone Eline. Field validation in 2019 confirms the research findings. An Operations Dashboard Disaster Management System was developed in order to disseminate information to the affected stakeholders about the potential risk that the face due to the occurrence of the natural phenomena.
Multilingualism in performance appraisal interviews: strategies to bridge language gaps
Authors: De Malsche Fien , Tobback Els , Vandenbroucke Mieke
Published: May 2024

This paper explores three multilingual strategies to bridge the lack of a shared first language as they are used during performance appraisal interviews, namely English as a business lingua franca, receptive multilingualism, and a lay interpreter. The study is based on authentic video-recorded performance appraisal interviews at a globally active Belgian company, and follow-up interviews with the managers. The analysis focuses on how the company deals with multilingualism from a management perspective, how the managers perceive these multilingual strategies from a language ideological perspective, and how these language ideological beliefs shape the language practices of the performance appraisal interviews. We conclude that this study provides novel insights into how globalized companies deal with multilingualism in the high-stakes and potentially sensitive interactional context of a performance appraisal interview by underlining the intertwined nature of language ideological beliefs and language practices as part of a broader multilingual language management strategy.
Diachronic multimodality research – a mini-review
Authors: Pflaeging Jana
Published: May 2024

This mini-review gives an overview of diachronic multimodality research, an approach that multimodality scholars have pursued only rarely so far. Acknowledging the comparably large share of case studies in this line of research, this paper sets out by surveying empirical contributions. Many of them also provide discussions of selected theoretical and methodological aspects, which are subsequently collated and complemented with concepts from a number of more extensive theoretical proposals. Identifying main developments in diachronic multimodality studies and avenues for future work, this review seeks to support its growth into a mature research strand with a solid theoretical basis, a versatile methodological toolbox, and a broad range of research objects.
Relationship between diagnosis of conus arteriosus malformation and genetic diagnosis results in fetal cardiac axis abnormalities by echocardiography during middle pregnancy
Authors: Yang Lin , Cai Yuting , Chen Huie , Ke Linfang , Wu Shufen
Published: May 2024

Objective

To explore the clinical value of echocardiography in detecting fetal cardiac axis abnormalities during middle pregnancy for diagnosing conus arteriosus malformation, and to compare and analyze the genetic diagnosis results, in order to provide evidence for clinical diagnosis and intervention.

Methods

Four hundred twenty-one fetuses with conus arteriosus malformation from January 2020 to October 2023 were included as the conus arteriosus malformation group, and 917 healthy fetuses (all single fetuses) matched at the same gestational age were selected as the healthy group.

Results

There was no significant difference in gestational weeks between two groups (P > 0.05). The age of pregnant women in conus arteriosus malformation group was lower compared to healthy group (P < 0.05), and the fetal cardiac axis in conus arteriosus malformation group was significantly higher compared to healthy group (P < 0.05). Among the fetuses with conus arteriosus malformation, tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), transposition of the great arteries (TGA) and double outlet right ventricle (DORV) had the highest proportions, accounting for 38.00%, 18.29% and 17.58%, respectively. Among all types of conus arteriosus malformations, atresia pulmonary valve syndrome associated with TOF, persistent truncus arteriosus and DORV exhibited higher proportions of fetal cardiac axis abnormalities, at 75.00%, 36.84% and 27.03%, respectively, while TGA and interrupted aortic arch associated with B-type interruption had lower proportions of fetal cardiac axis abnormalities, at 2.60% and 4.55%, respectively. Genetic testing was conducted on 73 cases (17.34%) of fetuses with conus arteriosus malformation in this study. Among them, fetal cardiac axis abnormalities were considered positive for genetic results due to factors such as aneuploidy, copy number abnormalities, and single-gene pathogenicity. A total of 31 cases tested positive for genetic anomalies, with a positive rate of approximately 42.47%.

Conclusion

In the middle pregnancy, the fetal cardiac axis in cases of conus arteriosus malformation was significantly higher than in normal fetuses. Moreover, there were variations in fetal cardiac axis among different types of conus arteriosus malformations, and these differences were notably associated with genetic diagnostic results.
Editorial: The RNA revolution and cancer
Authors: Dlamini Zodwa , Ladomery Michael R. , Kahraman Abdullah
Published: May 2024

RNA biology has revolutionized cancer understanding and treatment, especially in endocrine-related malignancies. This editorial highlights RNA's crucial role in cancer progression, emphasizing its influence on tumor heterogeneity and behavior. Processes like alternative splicing and noncoding RNA regulation shape cancer biology, with microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs orchestrating gene expression dynamics. Aberrant RNA signatures hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in endocrine-related cancers. Recent findings, such as aberrant PI3Kδ splice isoforms and epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related lncRNA signatures, unveil potential therapeutic targets for personalized treatments. Insights into m6A-associated lncRNA prognostic models and the function of lncRNA LINC00659 in gastric cancer represents ongoing research in this field. As understanding of RNA's role in cancer expands, personalized therapies offer transformative potential in managing endocrine-related malignancies. This signifies a significant stride towards precision oncology, fostering innovation for more effective cancer care.
Hormone replacement therapy perspectives
Authors: Kissinger Dohn
Published: May 2024

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), also known as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), was looked upon as a fountain of youth that kept women young and reduced cardiovascular disease. This led to a large-scale study called the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) that was conducted to show the cardiovascular benefits of HRT. This study was suspended early because of adverse side effects. The USFDA responded by slapping a “black box” warning on all HRT products. USFDA-approved bioidentical HRT formulations are safe and effective. We propose that these formulations have the “black box” warning removed so that doctors feel more confident in prescribing these products for symptoms of menopause and chronic conditions such as cardiovascular health. We propose eliminating the sale of products containing medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) because of the increased risk of heart attacks and breast cancers associated with this medication.
Emotional experiences and gender roles of men with fibromyalgia syndrome: a cross-cultural qualitative study
Authors: Montesó-Curto Pilar , Toussaint Loren , Kueny Angela , Ruschak Ilga , Lunn Shannon , Rosselló Lluís , Campoy Carme , Clark Stephanie , Luedtke Connie , Gonçalves Alessandra Queiroga , Aguilar Martín Carina , Vincent Ann , Mohabbat Arya B.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Gender roles may impact men with fibromyalgia, causing a high number of negative emotional states and affective disorders. There are few studies that detect men’s high emotional suffering. This study examined the emotional experience of men with fibromyalgia.

Methods

A qualitative cross-cultural study utilized inductive thematic analysis was performed at the Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Unit Santa Maria University Hospital in Spain, the Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Clinic at Mayo Clinic in the US, and volunteers from the Winneshiek County in the US A total of 17 participants, 10 men from Spain and 7 men from the US were included.

Results

Three themes related to feelings/emotions emerged: (1) psychological level; (2) social level; and (3) physical level. Men with fibromyalgia from Spain and the US experienced many negative emotions. Men often experience negative emotions that are worsened by common misunderstandings and social biases/stigma about their condition.

Conclusion/implications:

A proper assessment of emotions when evaluating the global health of men with fibromyalgia as well as the provision of emotional support would improve their mental health and therefore their overall physical health. Emotional management should be incorporated into all treatment protocols for fibromyalgia, especially for men given the gender stigma. Health policies designed by legislators, policymakers, and support agencies must be accompanied by education in gender role concepts to improve the emotions of men with FMS. The mass media will be essential for the disclosure of the emotional suffering of male patients so that society might better understand them.
Idiopathic nodular glomerulosclerosis: a case report
Authors: Landry Claudia , Rodriguez-Calero Antonio , Vogt Bruno , Bocchi Federica
Published: May 2024

Idiopathic nodular glomerulosclerosis (ING) is a rare condition characterized by poor renal prognosis. The pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. Histologically, it closely resembles diabetic nephropathy. The development of this disease seems to be influenced by factors such as metabolic syndrome, particularly hypertension and glucose intolerance, along with active smoking. We report a case of ING in an obese 71-year-old male patient who had a long history of untreated hypertension and smoking. The patient underwent conservative treatment involving the administration of an angiotensin-2 receptor antagonist and dapagliflozin, resulting in favorable disease progression. Additional therapeutic measures, such as discontinuation of smoking and efforts toward weight loss, are strongly advised. Furthermore, regular screening for diabetes in the follow-up is crucial, as it can play a pathophysiological role in the disease and may manifest at a later stage, as observed in our clinical case.
Construction of competing endogenous RNA networks in systemic lupus erythematosus by integrated analysis
Authors: He Juanjuan , Dai Yunfeng , Liu Jianwen , Lin He , Gao Fei , Chen Zhihan , Wu Yanfang
Published: May 2024

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a disease characterised by immune inflammation and damage to multiple organs. Recent investigations have linked competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) to lupus. However, the exact mechanism through which the ceRNAs network affects SLE is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the regulatory functions of the ceRNAs network, which are important pathways that control the pathophysiological processes of SLE.

Methods

CircRNA microarray for our tested assays were derived from bone marrow samples from three healthy individuals and three SLE patients in our hospital. The other sequencing data of circRNA, miRNA and mRNA were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Using the limma package of R program, the differential expression of mRNA and miRNA in the GEO database was discovered. Then predicted miRNA-mRNA and circRNA-miRNA were established using miRMap, miRanda, miRDB, TargetScan, and miTarBase. CircRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network was constructed using Cytoscape, and hub genes were screened using a protein-protein interaction network. Immune infiltration analysis of the hub gene was also performed by CIBERSORT and GSEA.

Results

230 overlapped circRNAs, 86 DEmiRNAs and 2083 DEmRNAs were identified in SLE patients as compared to healthy controls. We constructed a circRNA–miRNA–mRNA ceRNAs network contained 11 overlapped circRNAs, 9 miRNAs and 51 mRNAs. ESR1 and SIRT1 were the most frequently associated protein-protein interactions in the PPI network. KEGG analysis showed that DEGs was enriched in FoxO signaling pathway as well as lipids and atherosclerosis. We constructed a novel circRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network (HSA circ 0000345- HSA miR-22-3-P-ESR1/SIRT1) that may have a major impact on SLE.

Conclusion

Through this bioinformatics and integrated analysis, we suggest a regulatory role for ceRNA network in the pathogenesis and treatment of SLE.
Prediction of pedicled flap survival preoperatively by operating indocyanine green angiography at 1,450 nm wavelength: an animal model study
Authors: Shi Chenchen , Guo Linxiumei , Song Ruihu , Xu Heng , Zhang Yixin
Published: May 2024

Background

Predicting flap viability benefits patients by reducing complications and guides flap design by reducing donor areas. Due to varying anatomy, obtaining individual vascular information preoperatively is fundamental for designing safe flaps. Although indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) is a conventional tool in intraoperative assessment and postoperative monitoring, it is rare in preoperative prediction.

Methods

ICGA was performed on 20 male BALB/c mice under five wavelengths (900/1,000/1,100, /1,250/1,450 nm) to assess vascular resolution after ICG perfusion. A “mirrored-L” flap model with three angiosomes was established on another 20 male BALB/c mice, randomly divided into two equal groups. In Group A, a midline between angiosomes II and III was used as a border. In Group B, the points of the minimized choke vessel caliber marked according to the ICG signal at 1,450 nm wavelength (ICG1450) were connected. Necrotic area calculations, pathohistological testing, and statistical analysis were performed.

Results

The vascular structure was clearly observed at 1,450 nm wavelength, while the 900 to 1,100 nm failed to depict vessel morphology. Necrosis was beyond the borderline in 60% of Group A. Conversely, 100% of Group B had necrosis distal to the borderline. The number of choke vessels between angiosomes II and III was positively correlated with the necrotic area (%). The pathohistological findings supported the gross observation and analysis.

Conclusion

ICG1450 can delineate the vessel structure in vivo and predict the viability of pedicled skin flaps using the choke vessel as the border between angiosomes.
Case report: Myelitis and ganglionitis, an atypical presentation of Hansen’s disease
Authors: Spitz Clarissa Neves , Pitta Izabela Jardim R. , Andrade Ligia , de Carvalho Larissa Bittencourt , de Carvalho Diogo Matheus Terrana , Schmidt Felipe da Rocha , Siquara de Sousa Ana Caroline , Mendonça Silvana Machado , Sarno Euzenir Nunes , Sales Anna Maria , Pinheiro Roberta Olmo , Jardim Marcia Rodrigues
Published: May 2024

Hansen’s disease, or leprosy, is a disease characterized by dermatological and neurological disorders. A neural form also exists, in which peripheral neuropathy occurs in the absence of skin lesions. However, cases of leprosy that involve the central nervous system and proximal nerves are rare in the literature. We describe the case of an oligosymptomatic patient diagnosed with the neural form of leprosy with involvement of peripheral nerves, dorsal root ganglion, and cervical spinal cord in an atypical presentation of the disease. Through complementary examinations and nerve biopsies, the bacillus was identified, and treatment was subsequently initiated. This case highlights the importance of investigating the suspicion of leprosy, even in cases with atypical manifestations, as early diagnosis and treatment can reduce neurological damage and deformities.
An automated hybrid approach via deep learning and radiomics focused on the midbrain and substantia nigra to detect early-stage Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Chen Hongyi , Liu Xueling , Luo Xiao , Fu Junyan , Zhou Kun , Wang Na , Li Yuxin , Geng Daoying
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The altered neuromelanin in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) is a valuable biomarker in the detection of early-stage Parkinson’s disease (EPD). Diagnosis via visual inspection or single radiomics based method is challenging. Thus, we proposed a novel hybrid model that integrates radiomics and deep learning methodologies to automatically detect EPD based on neuromelanin-sensitive MRI, namely short-echo-time Magnitude (setMag) reconstructed from quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM).

Methods

In our study, we collected QSM images including 73 EPD patients and 65 healthy controls, which were stratified into training-validation and independent test sets with an 8:2 ratio. Twenty-four participants from another center were included as the external validation set. Our framework began with the detection of the brainstem utilizing YOLO-v5. Subsequently, a modified LeNet was applied to obtain deep learning features. Meanwhile, 1781 radiomics features were extracted, and 10 features were retained after filtering. Finally, the classified models based on radiomics features, deep learning features, and the hybrid of both were established through machine learning algorithms, respectively. The performance was mainly evaluated using accuracy, net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI). The saliency map was used to visualize the model.

Results

The hybrid feature-based support vector machine (SVM) model showed the best performance, achieving ACC of 96.3 and 95.8% in the independent test set and external validation set, respectively. The model established by hybrid features outperformed the one radiomics feature-based (NRI: 0.245, IDI: 0.112). Furthermore, the saliency map showed that the bilateral “swallow tail” sign region was significant for classification.

Conclusion

The integration of deep learning and radiomic features presents a potent strategy for the computer-aided diagnosis of EPD. This study not only validates the accuracy of our proposed model but also underscores its interpretability, evidenced by differential significance across various anatomical sites.
Hand, foot, and mouth disease: could EPs® 7630 be a treatment option? A prospective randomized open-label multicenter clinical study
Authors: Sütçü Murat , Kara Manolya , Yıldız Funda , Kılıç Ömer , Tural Kara Tugce , Akkoc Gulsen , Büyükçam Ayşe , Elmas Bozdemir Şefika , Özgür Gündeşlioğlu Özlem , Gül Doruk , İseri Nepesov Merve , Kara Ateş
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a viral contagious disease of children caused by human enteroviruses (EVs) and coxsackieviruses (CVs). There is no specific treatment option for HFMD. EPs® 7630's anti-infective and immunomodulatory properties have previously been demonstrated in several in vitro and in vivo studies; however, the use of this herbal medicine in children with HFMD has not previously been investigated.

Methods

This prospective randomized multicenter clinical study included 208 children with HFMD. The diagnosis was made by pediatricians. The patients who were within the first 48 h of symptom onset (according to the first onset of fever and skin findings) were enrolled. The study participants were assigned into 2 groups as EPs® 7630 and control groups. All patients were followed up twice more, 48 h after the first admission and on the 5th–7th day. Another phone evaluation was conducted for those with continued complaints from the previous visit.

Results

The median age was 27 (12–112) months. The male-female ratio was 0.98. One hundred thirty one (63%) of 190 patients had no history of household contact. EPs® 7630 group included 94 and control group included 96 patients. A significant difference was found between the groups in terms of complaint scores at the visits made at the 48th h of the treatment and on days 5–7 (p < 0.001). The mean ± SD disease duration of EPs® 7630 users was significantly shorter 6.07 ± 0.70 days (95% CI: 5.92–6.21)] than the control group [8.58 ± 0.94 days (95% CI: 8.39–8.77)] (p < 0.001). Besides, the hospitalization rate among the EPs® 7630 users were significantly lower (p = 0.019). No side effects were observed, except for unpleasant taste, which was reported in 5 patients (EPs® 7630 group).

Conclusion

Considering its efficacy and safety profile EPs® 7630 may represent a feasible herbal-based treatment option for children with HFMD.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier (NCT06353477).
Life at the crossroads: the nuclear LINC complex and vascular mechanotransduction
Authors: Bougaran Pauline , Bautch Victoria L.
Published: May 2024

Vascular endothelial cells line the inner surface of all blood vessels, where they are exposed to polarized mechanical forces throughout their lifespan. Both basal substrate interactions and apical blood flow-induced shear stress regulate blood vessel development, remodeling, and maintenance of vascular homeostasis. Disruption of these interactions leads to dysfunction and vascular pathologies, although how forces are sensed and integrated to affect endothelial cell behaviors is incompletely understood. Recently the endothelial cell nucleus has emerged as a prominent force-transducing organelle that participates in vascular mechanotransduction, via communication to and from cell-cell and cell-matrix junctions. The LINC complex, composed of SUN and nesprin proteins, spans the nuclear membranes and connects the nuclear lamina, the nuclear envelope, and the cytoskeleton. Here we review LINC complex involvement in endothelial cell mechanotransduction, describe unique and overlapping functions of each LINC complex component, and consider emerging evidence that two major SUN proteins, SUN1 and SUN2, orchestrate a complex interplay that extends outward to cell-cell and cell-matrix junctions and inward to interactions within the nucleus and chromatin. We discuss these findings in relation to vascular pathologies such as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, a premature aging disorder with cardiovascular impairment. More knowledge of LINC complex regulation and function will help to understand how the nucleus participates in endothelial cell force sensing and how dysfunction leads to cardiovascular disease.