bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of stromal PD-L1 expression in colorectal liver metastasis
Authors: Takasu Chie , Morine Yuji , Yoshikawa Kozo , Nakao Toshihiro , Tokunaga Takuya , Nishi Masaaki , Kashihara Hideya , Wada Yuma , Yoshimoto Toshiaki , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: January 2024

Background and Aim

The outcomes of immune checkpoint blockade for colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment are unsatisfactory. Furthermore, the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade for liver metastasis of various cancer is poor. Here, we investigated the relationship between stromal programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM).

Methods

The present study enrolled 84 CRLM patients who underwent surgery (R0) for CRC. Immunohistochemistry was performed to analyze stromal PD-L1 expression in CRLM.

Results

Stromal PD-L1 was expressed in 52.3% of CRLM samples, which was associated with fewer not optimally resectable metastases (p = 0.04). Stromal PD-L1 also tended to associate with a lower tumor grade (p = 0.08). Stromal PD-L1-positive patients had longer overall survival (p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis identified stromal PD-L1 expression (p = 0.008) and poorer differentiation (p < 0.001) as independent prognostic indicators. Furthermore, stromal PD-L1 expression was correlated to a high number of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Stromal PD-L1– and low TIL groups had shorter OS than stromal PD-L1 + and high TIL groups (46.6% vs. 81.8%, p = 0.05) Stromal PD-L1-positive patients had longer disease-free survival (DFS) (p = 0.03) and time to surgical failure (p = 0.001). Interestingly, stromal PD-L1 expression was positively related to the desmoplastic subtype (p = 0.0002) and inversely related to the replacement subtype of the histological growth pattern (p = 0.008).

Conclusions

Stromal PD-L1 expression may be a significant prognostic marker for CRLM.
The effect of BsmI (rs1544410) single nucleotide polymorphism of vitamin D receptor (VDR) on insulin resistance in healthy children and adolescents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gholami Ahmad , Montazeri-Najafabady Nima , Karimzadeh Iman , Dabbaghmanesh Mohammad Hossein , Talei Elnaz
Published: January 2024

The increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance are driven by complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. One of the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the VDR gene associated with vitamin D levels is the rs1544410 SNP. This study examined the association of the rs1544410 polymorphism with insulin resistance to predict and screen for possible association with type 2 diabetes and target these individuals for appropriate treatment. This cross-sectional study examined 270 children and adolescents aged 9 to 18 years. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were determined. Insulin resistance/sensitivity was determined using Quicki, HOMA-IR, MacAuley, Revised MacAuley, Bennetts, FIRI and insulin-to-glucose ratio. The BsmI single nucleotide polymorphism (rs1544410) was determined using the PCR-RFLP method after extracting DNA from peripheral blood collected from fasted subjects, and the resulting data were analyzed using SPSS software and statistical tests.

According to linear regression analysis, a significant difference was found in Insulin to glucose ratio, FIRI and HOMA-IR indices between Bb / bb and BB genotypes and it was observed that individuals with BB genotype polymorphism of BsmI vitamin D receptor gene, after Adjustment of age, sex, BMI are at greater risk for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

This study demonstrated that those with the BB genotype of VDR BsmI polymorphism were at higher risk for insulin resistance and developing type 2 DM.
Age-period-cohort analysis of incidence, mortality and disability-adjusted life years of esophageal cancer in global, regional and national regions from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Li Huiying , Yang Xianzhi , Zhang Aiqi , Liang Guanying , Sun Yue , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2024

Objective

In view of the high incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer, the latest statistical data on the disease burden of esophageal cancer can provide strategies for cancer screening, early detection and treatment, and help to rationally allocate health resources. This study provides an analysis of the global disease burden and risk factors of esophageal cancer from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Using the 2019 Global Burden of Disease, Injury and Risk Factor (GBD) data, we present the incidence, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALY) of esophageal cancer in 21 regions and 204 countries and different sociodemographic index (SDI) regions from 1990 to 2019. The age-period-cohort model was used to estimate the age, period, and cohort trend of esophageal cancer in different SDI regions. The estimated proportion of DALY attributable to each risk factor from 1990 to 2019.

Results

From 1990 to 2019, the number of new cases of esophageal cancer, the number of deaths and DALY increased by 67.07%, 55.97% and 42.13%, respectively, but age standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age standardized DALY rate (ASDR) decreased by 19.28%, 25.32% and 88.22%, respectively. Overall, the results of the age-period-cohort model showed that the incidence, mortality, and DALY rates in countries and regions with higher SDI levels showed a downward trend over time and with the passage of time. Conversely, there were no significant changes in incidence and mortality in countries and regions with low SDI levels. In the past 30 years, the incidence and death of esophageal cancer in the world has gradually changed to people over 80 years old, but the population aged 60–79 still accounts for the largest proportion. The global DALY in esophageal cancer is mainly attributable to smoking, followed by alcohol consumption and occupational exposure.

Conclusions

Although ASIR, ASMR and ASDR have decreased significantly, esophageal cancer is still the main factor causing the disease burden worldwide. Public health administrators in low SDI and low-middle SDI countries are high-risk areas for esophageal cancer, and preventive control measures should be implemented to raise awareness, screening, and treatment of esophageal cancer in these areas. Tobacco and alcohol control and reduction of occupational hazards are key steps in reducing the burden of esophageal cancer.
Can an educational intervention in the context of inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation improve asthma self-management at work? A study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Salandi Julia , Hayden Markus C. , Heinrichs Katherina , Limbach Matthias , Schultz Konrad , Schwarzl Gabriele , Neumeister Wolfgang , Loerbroks Adrian
Published: January 2024

Background

Asthma self-management (e.g., trigger avoidance or correct medication use) is a cornerstone of therapy. Its successful implementation in everyday working life is determined by psychosocial working conditions, in particular by support from superiors and colleagues and the job decision latitude (i.e., when and how to carry out which tasks). To empower individuals with asthma to modify their working conditions, employees need to use certain communication skills and acquire specific knowledge. Both could be taught as part of patient education during pulmonary rehabilitation. Therefore, the aim of the planned study is the development and multicentre implementation of an education module for individuals with asthma during their rehabilitation and to generate evidence on its effectiveness.

Methods

Participants (n ≥ 180) will be recruited, randomized into an intervention and a control group, trained and surveyed in two rehabilitation clinics. The intervention group will receive the supplementary patient education module “Asthma and Work” while the control group will participate in a program on " Eating behaviour” (both 2 × 50 min). The effectiveness of the intervention will be examined based on pre-post measurements (T1 and T2) and a 3-month follow-up (T3). We will consider behavioural intention (T2) and asthma self-management at work (T3) as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes will include self-management-related knowledge, self-efficacy, number of sick days, number of exacerbations, asthma control (Asthma Control Test), asthma-related quality of life (Marks Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire), and subjective employment prognosis (Brief Scale Measuring the Subjective Prognosis of Gainful Employment). The pre-post comparisons are to be evaluated using univariate analyses of covariance.

Discussion

Improving asthma self-management at work could increase the work ability and social participation of employees with asthma. This could reduce costs, e.g. in terms of asthma-related sick leave.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register (ID: DRKS00031843)
Association of vitamins with bone mineral density and osteoporosis measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Qin , Yu Hanhua , Kong Yuefeng
Published: January 2024

Background

We aimed to assess the associations of vitamins intake with osteoporosis based on a national sample from US adults.

Methods

A total of 1536 participants were included in this cross-sectional study to investigate the relationship between vitamins intake and osteoporosis from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, including vitamin A, C, D. Logistic regression models were used to assess the associations between dietary vitamin intake and osteoporosis.

Results

We found that vitamins intake were negatively associated with osteoporosis. For vitamin A, compared with the first tertile, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidential intervals (CIs) were 0.93 (0.81–1.04) for the second tertile and 0.85 (0.78–0.96) for the third tertile (P < 0.01). For vitamin C, compared with the first tertile, the ORs and 95% CIs were 0.89 (0.78–1.05) for the second tertile and 0.79 (0.67–0.93) for the third tertile (P < 0.01). For vitamin D, compared with the first tertile, the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidential intervals (CIs) were 0.94 (0.82–1.07) for the second tertile and 0.88 (0.75–0.98) for the third tertile (P < 0.01). And the negative association between vitamins intake and osteoporosis were more evident for female, aged ≥ 60, and BMI > 30, including vitamin A, C and D.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence that vitamins intake is linked with decreased prevalence of osteoporosis, including vitamin A, C, D. Further large-scale prospective cohort studies are needed to verify our findings.
Establishment and pathophysiological evaluation of a novel model of acute compartment syndrome in rats
Authors: Dong Qi , Long Yubin , Jin Lin , Hou Guanlin , Li Guoqiang , Wang Tao , Jia Huiyang , Yin Yingchao , Guo Junfei , Ma Huijie , Xu Sujuan , Zhang Yingze , Hou Zhiyong
Published: January 2024

Background

Researches have used intra-compartmental infusion and ballon tourniquest to create high intra-compartmental pressure in animal models of Acute Compartment Syndrome (ACS). However, due to the large differences in the modeling methods and the evaluation criteria of ACS, further researches of its pathophysiology and pathogenesis are hindered. Currently, there is no ideal animal model for ACS and this study aimed to establish a reproducible, clinically relevant animal model.

Methods

Blunt trauma and fracture were caused by the free falling of weights (0.5 kg, 1 kg, 2 kg) from a height of 40 cm onto the lower legs of rats, and the application of pressures of 100 mmHg, 200 mmHg, 300 mmHg and 400 mmHg to the lower limbs of rats using a modified pressurizing device for 6 h. The intra-compartmental pressure (ICP) and the pressure change (ΔP) of rats with single and combined injury were continuously recorded, and the pathophysiology of the rats was assessed based on serum biochemistry, histological and hemodynamic changes.

Results

The ΔP caused by single injury method of different weights falling onto the lower leg did not meet the diagnosis criteria for ACS (< 30 mmHg). On the other hand, a combined injury method of a falling weight of 1.0 kg and the use of a pressurizing device with pressure of 300 mmHg or 400 mmHg for 6 h resulted in the desired ACS diagnosis criteria with a ΔP value of less than 30 mmHg. The serum analytes, histological damage score, and fibrosis level of the combined injury group were significantly increased compared with control group, while the blood flow was significantly decreased compared with control group.

Conclusion

We successfully established a new preclinical ACS-like rat model, by the compression of the lower leg of rats with 300 mmHg pressure for 6 h and blunt trauma by 1.0 kg weight falling.
Effect of non-surgical periodontal therapy on CD14 + CD16+ monocyte counts in peripheral blood samples: a clinical interventional study
Authors: Jagannathan Raghunanthan , Balaji Thodur Madapusi , Rao Suresh Ranga , Alosaimi Meshal Saleh , Patil Shankargouda , Siurkel Yuliia , Cicciù Marco , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: January 2024

Monocytes and their macrophage progeny are thought to be involved in tissue and alveolar bone destruction in periodontal disease. It has been documented that the proportion of (CD14 + CD16+) non-classical monocytes in the blood are elevated in chronic periodontitis;A total of 20 chronic generalized periodontitis patients who were otherwise healthy, were recruited for this study. At baseline and 3 weeks after non-surgical periodontal treatment, peripheral blood was obtained to assess the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and the proportion of monocyte subsets. Monocyte subsets were assessed using flow cytometry;The mean percentage of CD14 + CD16+ non-classical monocytes in the peripheral blood sample at baseline was 13.95 + 2.09, that reduced to 8.94 + 1.23 3 weeks after non-surgical treatment. A distinct significant reduction in the percentage of non-classical monocytes and a concomitant increase in classical monocytes were observed following periodontal treatment compared to baseline. There was a significant reduction in the all the periodontal parameters and CRP levels 3 weeks post non-surgical periodontal treatment. A positive correlation between CRP and percentage of non-classical monocytes was also observed; Periodontal treatment potentially modulates the host response effectively.
Influence of operator’s experience on complications of root canal treatment using contemporary techniques: a retrospective study
Authors: Shao Tongfei , Guan Rui , Zhang Chen , Hou Benxiang
Published: January 2024

Background

Endodontic treatment has benefited from the development of new techniques and equipment. Few clinical studies have been published on the complications associated with root canal preparations performed by doctors with different working experiences using contemporary techniques. This study aimed to analyze the complications of endodontic treatment performed by residents and endodontic specialists in a teaching stomatology hospital using contemporary techniques.

Methods

Cases of root canal treatment (RCT) and non-surgical root canal retreatment (ReRCT) performed by residents with 1–3 years of experience and endodontic specialists with 5–7 years of experience were collected from the electronic medical system of the Department of Endodontics, Beijing Stomatology Hospital, from September 1, 2020 to August 31, 2021. The cases were examined in terms of patient age, sex, type of tooth, diagnosis, treatment modality (RCT or ReRCT), number of appointments, whether an operating microscope was used, presence of ledges, canal transportation, perforations, missed canals, separated instruments, flare-ups and clinical incidence of second mesiobuccal (MB2) root canal in the maxillary molars.

Results

In total, 859 teeth from 820 patients were included in the analysis. The overall incidence of complications in the resident group was significantly higher than that in the specialist group. More ledges and flare-ups were observed in the resident group (p < 0.05). The clinical incidence of MB2 was significantly higher in the specialist group (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in root canal transportation, perforation, or instrument separation between the two groups (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that the incidence of root canal preparation complications was related to operator experience, tooth type and treatment modality.

Conclusions

Technical advancements could reduce the effect of working experience on RCT complications between residents and endodontic specialists in a teaching stomatology hospital.
Satisfaction and attitudes towards online continuous medical education and its impact on clinical practice among physiotherapists
Authors: Shalabi Kholood Matouq , Almurdi Muneera Mohammed
Published: January 2024

Background

The traditional face-to-face of medical education is gradually being replaced with online education. However, the rate of adoption of online continuing medical education (OCME) as a learning method among practicing clinical physiotherapists (PTs) is unclear. The objectives of this study were to measure the satisfaction with, attitudes towards, and impact of OCME among practicing clinical PTs in Saudi Arabia (SA) and to examine the factors that affect the findings for satisfaction, attitude, and impact towards OCME.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey was conducted between October 2021 and January 2022. PTs employed at various medical facilities and specialties in Saudi Arabia completed an online survey to assess satisfaction with, attitudes towards, and impact of OCME.

Results

Of the 127 participants, 48 were female (37.8%), 44.1% were aged between 24 and 30 years. Overall, 57.5% of the respondents were satisfied with OCME compared with conventional face-to-face education, and 45.7% agreed and 18.1% strongly agreed that OCME was more flexible. Further, 52.8% of the respondents thought that OCME programs could supplement traditional face-to-face education. The majority of the participants (63.8%) agreed that participating in OCME programs increased their knowledge, and 55.1% and 51.2% agreed that attending these programs improved patient outcomes and increased their confidence in patient management, respectively. However, only 38.6% agreed that participating in OCME programs enhanced their clinical expertise. The mean satisfaction, attitude, and impact scores differed significantly according to age group, marital status, number of years of practice, and specialty (p < 0.0001). Multiple regression analysis showed that older age was independently associated with better satisfaction and more positive attitudes and impact. Further, having a specialization also seemed to improve the impact of OCME.

Conclusion

The PTs were satisfied with and had positive attitudes towards OCME, and also found that it had a positive impact on their clinical practice. Thus, existing OCME programs are a good option for expanding the number of PTs proficient in clinical care.
Experience of financial toxicity and coping strategies in young and middle-aged patients with stroke: a qualitative study
Authors: Xu Ling , Dong Qiong , Jin Aiping , Zeng Sining , Wang Kai , Yang Xiaopei , Zhu Xiaoping
Published: January 2024

Background

While financial toxicity (FT) is prevalent in patients with cancer, young and middle-aged patients with stroke are also affected by FT, which can exacerbate their physical and psychological challenges. Understanding the patient’s experience and response measures can further understand the impact of FT on patients with stroke, to help alleviate FT. However, little is known concerning the experience of patients with stroke with FT or their coping strategies. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the experiences of FT in young and middle-aged patients with stroke and their coping strategies.

Methods

A phenomenological method was utilized. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 young and middle-aged stroke patients (aged 18–59) between October 2022 and March 2023. The participants were recruited from a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China. The research team used NVivo 12.0 software. Giorgi’s phenomenological analysis method was used to analyse the interview data.

Results

The interview results were divided into two categories in terms of patients’ experiences of FT and their coping strategies. Nine subthemes were constructed. The experience category included four subthemes: (1) taking on multifaceted economic pressure, (2) dual choice of treatment, (3) decline in material living standards, and (4) suffering from negative emotions such as anxiety and depression. The coping strategy category included five subthemes: (1) reducing expenses, (2) improving living habits, (3) proactive participation in medical decision-making, (4) making a job position choice, and (5) seeking social support.

Conclusions

FT in young and middle-aged patients with stroke, which affected their physical and mental health, led them to implement strategies for dealing with FT. The Chinese government needs to broaden the reach of health insurance coverage and advance the fairness of healthcare policies. Healthcare professionals must pay active attention to FT in such patients in terms of strengthening their health education and considering their needs and preferences. Patients need to improve their sense of self-efficacy, actively reintegrate into society, and adhere to rehabilitation and treatment. Individuals at a high risk of stroke are recommended to purchase health insurance. Multifaceted efforts are needed to reduce the impact of FT in young and middle-aged patients with stroke.
Assessment of pre-referral treatment for malaria, diarrhea, and pneumonia by rural community health workers in Southwestern Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Matte Michael , Ntaro Moses , Kenney Jessica , Wesuta Andrew , Kawungezi Peter Chris , Bwambale Shem , Ayebare David , Baguma Stephen , Bagenda Fred , Stone Geren , Mulogo Edgar
Published: January 2024

Background

Pre-referral treatment aims to stabilize the child’s condition before transferring them to a higher level of healthcare. This study explored pre-referral treatment for diarrhea, malaria and pneumonia in children U5. The study aims to assess pre-referral treatment practices among community health workers (CHWs) for children aged 2 to 59 months diagnosed with malaria, diarrhea, and pneumonia.

Methods

Conducted in 2023, this study employed a quantitative retrospective analysis of secondary data gathered from March 2014 to December 2018. Among the subjects, 171 patients received pre-referral treatment, serving as the foundation for categorical data analysis, presenting proportions and 95% confidence intervals across different categories.

Results

In this cohort, 90 (53%) of the 177 children U5 were male, and age distribution showed 39 (23%), 70 (41%), and 62 (36%) in the 2–11 months, 12–35 months, and 36–60 months categories, respectively. Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) malaria results indicated a negative outcome in 83(60%) and positive in 55 (40%) of cases. Symptomatically, 45 (26%) had diarrhea, 52 (30%) exhibited fast breathing, and 109 (63%) presented with fever. Furthermore, 59 (35%) displayed danger signs, while 104 (61%) sought medical attention within 24 h.

Conclusion

The study analyzed a sample of 171 children under 5 years old to assess various characteristics and variables related to pre-referral treatment. The findings reveal notable proportions in gender distribution, age categories, RDT results, presence of diarrhea, fast breathing, fever, danger signs, and timely medical visits. The results highlight the need to strengthen pre-referral treatment interventions and enhance iCCM programs.
TIPARP as a prognostic biomarker and potential immunotherapeutic target in male papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Jianlin , Zhou Xumin , Yao Fan , Zhang JiaLi , Li Qiang
Published: January 2024

Background

Male patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) tend to have poorer prognosis compared to females, partially attributable to a higher rate of lymph node metastasis (LNM). Developing a precise predictive model for LNM occurrence in male PTC patients is imperative. While preliminary predictive models exist, there is room to improve accuracy. Further research is needed to create optimized prognostic models specific to LNM prediction in male PTC cases.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of publicly available microarray datasets to identify candidate genes continuously upregulated or downregulated during PTC progression in male patients only. Univariate Cox analysis and lasso regression were utilized to construct an 11-gene signature predictive of LNM. TIPARP emerged as a key candidate gene, which we validated at the protein level using immunohistochemical staining. A prognostic nomogram incorporating the signature and clinical factors was developed based on the TCGA cohort.

Results

The 11-gene signature demonstrated good discriminative performance for LNM prediction in training and validation datasets. High TIPARP expression associated with advanced stage, high T stage, and presence of LNM. A prognostic nomogram integrating the signature and clinical variables reliably stratified male PTC patients into high and low recurrence risk groups.

Conclusions

We identified a robust 11-gene signature and prognostic nomogram for predicting LNM occurrence in male PTC patients. We propose TIPARP as a potential contributor to inferior outcomes in males, warranting further exploration as a prognostic biomarker and immunotherapeutic target. Our study provides insights into the molecular basis for gender disparities in PTC.
Cilostazol protects against degenerative cervical myelopathy injury and cell pyroptosis via TXNIP-NLRP3 pathway
Authors: Xu Fei , Tian Zhuo , Wang Zhengguang
Published: January 2024

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is one of the most common and serious neurological diseases. Cilostazol has protective effects of anterior horn motor neurons and prevented the cell apoptosis. However, there was no literatures of Cilostazol on DCM. In this study, we established the DCM rat model to detect the effects of Cilostazol. Meanwhile, the neurobehavioral assessments, histopathology changes, inflammatory cytokines, Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), NOD‑like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and pro-caspase-1 expressions were detected by Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan score assessment, Hematoxylin and Eosin Staining, Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence and Western blotting, respectively. After treated with Cilostazol, the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) score, inclined plane test and forelimb grip strength in DCM rats were significantly increased meanwhile the histopathology injury and inflammatory cytokines were decreased. Additionally, TXNIP, NLRP3 and pro-caspase-1 expressions levels were decreased in Cilostazol treated DCM rats. Interestingly, the using of siTXNIP significantly changed inflammatory cytokines, TXNIP, NLRP3 and pro-caspase-1 expressions, however there was no significance between siTXNIP and Cilostazol + siTXNIP group. These observations showed that Cilostazol rescues DCM injury and ameliorates neuronal destruction mediated by TXNIP/NLRP3/caspase-1 and pro-inflammatory cytokines. As a result of our study, these findings provide further evidence that Cilostazol may represent promising therapeutic candidates for DCM.
Effectiveness of bone grafting versus cannulated screw fixation in the treatment of posterolateral tibial plateau compression fractures with concomitant ACL injury: a comparative study
Authors: Yang Yang , Lin Xiaofang , Zhang Jianmin , Xin Hanlong , Han Dawei , Zhang Qingguo , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: January 2024

Background

Posterolateral tibial plateau compression fractures (PTPCF) are one of the significant factors leading to knee instability and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction failure. The effectiveness of fixation for such cases without the use of metal implants remains inconclusive. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the fixation with isolated bone grafting is stable enough for the treatment of PTPCF with concomitant ACL injuries.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed patients treated for concomitant ACL injuries and PTPCF in authors’ institution. A total of 53 patients (21 males and 32 females) with an average age of 47.43 ± 14.71 years were included. Patient data were collected, including factors leading to injury, affected side, height, weight, and basic medical history. The posterior inclination angle and the lateral tibial plateau lateral inclination angle were measured to evaluate the fixation stability. Rasmussen functional score and HSS score were used to assess the knee functional recovery.

Results

The bone grafting group achieved satisfactory levels of Rasmussen score (28.22 ± 0.85) and HSS knee joint function scores (95.57 ± 1.97). The cannulated screw fixation group had a Rasmussen knee joint function score of 28.70 ± 0.92 and a HSS knee joint function score of 96.07 ± 1.93. No statistically significant difference was found (P > 0.05). The cannulated screw fixation group had a mean posterior inclination angle reduction loss of 0.20° ± 1.11°, while the bone grafting group had a reduction loss of 0.18° ± 1.01°, with no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). The cannulated screw fixation group had a lateral inclination angle reduction loss of 0.01° ± 0.37°, and the bone grafting group had a reduction loss of 0.03° ± 0.43°, with no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The use of bone grafting for fixation of PTPCF with accompanying ACL injuries demonstrated no substantial disparities in knee joint function. In cases of simple PTPCF, filling and compacting the bone defect underneath the tibial plateau fracture fragment can yield satisfactory fixation, obviating the necessity for supplementary cannulate screw fixation.
Evaluation of secretomes derived from human dermal and adipose tissue mesenchymal stem/stromal cells for skin wound healing: not as effective as cells
Authors: Zomer Helena Debiazi , de Souza Lima Victor Juan , Bion Monique Coelho , Brito Karynne Nazare Lins , Rode Michele , Stimamiglio Marco Augusto , Jeremias Talita da Silva , Trentin Andrea Gonçalves
Published: January 2024

Background

Although the paracrine effects of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have been recognized as crucial mediators of their regenerative effects on tissue repair, the potential of MSC secretomes as effective substitutes for cellular therapies remains underexplored.

Methods

In this study, we compared MSCs from the human dermis (DSCs) and adipose tissue (ASCs) with their secretomes regarding their efficacy for skin wound healing using a translationally relevant murine model.

Results

Proteomic analysis revealed that while there was a substantial overlap in protein composition between DSC and ASC secretomes, specific proteins associated with wound healing and angiogenesis were differentially expressed. Despite a similar angiogenic potential in vivo, DSC and ASC secretomes were found to be less effective than cells in accelerating wound closure and promoting tissue remodeling.

Conclusions

Overall, secretome-treated groups showed intermediary results between cells- and control-treated (empty scaffold) groups. These findings highlight that although secretomes possess therapeutic potential, their efficacy might be limited compared to cellular therapies. This study contributes to the growing understanding of MSC secretomes, emphasizes the need for further protocol optimization, and offers insights into their potential applications in regenerative medicine.
Modeled microgravity unravels the roles of mechanical forces in renal progenitor cell physiology
Authors: Melica Maria Elena , Cialdai Francesca , La Regina Gilda , Risaliti Chiara , Dafichi Tommaso , Peired Anna Julie , Romagnani Paola , Monici Monica , Lasagni Laura
Published: January 2024

Background

The glomerulus is a highly complex system, composed of different interdependent cell types that are subjected to various mechanical stimuli. These stimuli regulate multiple cellular functions, and changes in these functions may contribute to tissue damage and disease progression. To date, our understanding of the mechanobiology of glomerular cells is limited, with most research focused on the adaptive response of podocytes. However, it is crucial to recognize the interdependence between podocytes and parietal epithelial cells, in particular with the progenitor subset, as it plays a critical role in various manifestations of glomerular diseases. This highlights the necessity to implement the analysis of the effects of mechanical stress on renal progenitor cells.

Methods

Microgravity, modeled by Rotary Cell Culture System, has been employed as a system to investigate how renal progenitor cells respond to alterations in the mechanical cues within their microenvironment. Changes in cell phenotype, cytoskeleton organization, cell proliferation, cell adhesion and cell capacity for differentiation into podocytes were analyzed.

Results

In modeled microgravity conditions, renal progenitor cells showed altered cytoskeleton and focal adhesion organization associated with a reduction in cell proliferation, cell adhesion and spreading capacity. Moreover, mechanical forces appeared to be essential for renal progenitor differentiation into podocytes. Indeed, when renal progenitors were exposed to a differentiative agent in modeled microgravity conditions, it impaired the acquisition of a complex podocyte-like F-actin cytoskeleton and the expression of specific podocyte markers, such as nephrin and nestin. Importantly, the stabilization of the cytoskeleton with a calcineurin inhibitor, cyclosporine A, rescued the differentiation of renal progenitor cells into podocytes in modeled microgravity conditions.

Conclusions

Alterations in the organization of the renal progenitor cytoskeleton due to unloading conditions negatively affect the regenerative capacity of these cells. These findings strengthen the concept that changes in mechanical cues can initiate a pathophysiological process in the glomerulus, not only altering podocyte actin cytoskeleton, but also extending the detrimental effect to the renal progenitor population. This underscores the significance of the cytoskeleton as a druggable target for kidney diseases.
Dynamical behavior of a degenerate parabolic equation with memory on the whole space
Authors: Guo Rong , Leng Xuan
Published: January 2024

This paper is concerned with the existence and uniqueness of global attractors for a class of degenerate parabolic equations with memory on $\mathbb{R}^{n}$

R
n

. Since the corresponding equation includes the degenerate term $\operatorname{div}\{a(x)\nabla u\}$
div
{
a
(
x
)
∇
u
}
, it requires us to give appropriate assumptions about the weight function $a(x)$
a
(
x
)
for studying our problem. Based on this, we first obtain the existence of a bounded absorbing set, then verify the asymptotic compactness of a solution semigroup via the asymptotic contractive semigroup method. Finally, the existence and uniqueness of global attractors are proved. In particular, the nonlinearity f satisfies the polynomial growth of arbitrary order $p-1$
p
−
1
($p\geq 2$
p
≥
2
) and the idea of uniform tail-estimates of solutions is employed to show the strong convergence of solutions.
The role of clinical engineers in dialysis therapy in Japan
Authors: Honma Takashi , Takagi Masao , Uchino Junji , Tsuchiya Ken
Published: January 2024

Traditionally in Japan, dialysis treatment has been performed primarily by physicians and nurses. However, with the advancement of related medical equipment, such as the development of dialyzers and dialysis monitoring equipment, technical support by technicians has become necessary. Therefore, in 1988, the “Clinical Engineers Act” was enacted and recognized as an official national qualification for technicians to operate these devices, in light of the actual status of these technicians and the fact that further advancement and diversification of medical devices will require their expertise in the future. This is a professional qualification unparalleled anywhere in the world. In dialysis treatment, purification of dialysate and efficient removal of uremic substances are fundamental principles. Clinical engineers have contributed significantly to the elimination of biological and chemical contaminants in the process of production of dialysis water, to the development of high-performance membranes, and to the development and advancement of online HDF, a high-volume fluid replacement method. Furthermore, clinical engineers have been involved in the proposal and development of safe devices to prevent medical accidents that occur during continuous dialysis treatment for many patients. Clinical engineers will continue to contribute to the provision of the best treatment methods, not only in the development and deployment of equipment, but also in remote medicine and the utilization of large-scale data, as they are medical professionals with knowledge of both medicine and engineering. Furthermore, the scope of the profession, which started in the field of hemodialysis, has the potential to expand to include peritoneal dialysis and other modalities of renal replacement therapy.
Βίος και εργογραφία του Χρύσανθου Βοσταντζόγλου (Μποστ)
Authors: Κυριακού Κωνσταντίνος
Published: January 2024

Αντικείμενο έρευνας και εξέτασης της διδακτορικής διατριβής είναι η περίπτωση του Χρύσανθου Βοσταντζόγλου, ή Μέντη Μποσταντζόγλου, γνωστού με το ψευδώνυμο Μποστ, η καλλιτεχνική παραγωγή του οποίου εκτείνεται στα όρια μιας ολόκληρης σχεδόν πεντηκονταετίας, από τα τέλη της δεκαετίας τού 1940 έως τα μέσα της δεκαετίας τού 1990, οπότε και απεβίωσε. Ο Μποστ υπήρξε ένα φαινόμενο πολύ σπάνιο για τα ελληνικά δεδομένα, μιας και ήταν ζωγράφος, αγιογράφος, αρθρογράφος, χρονικογράφος, πεζογράφος, στιχουργός, ποιητής, διαφημιστής, ολίγον σεναριογράφος και μεταφραστής, πολύ γελοιογράφος και σκιτσογράφος, που γέμιζε με ανορθόγραφα και ασύντακτα κείμενα το ορθογώνιο πλαίσιο της πολιτικής γελοιογραφίας του και που άφησε εποχή με τις ειρωνικές φιγούρες του και με την έντονη κοινωνικοπολιτική κριτική στο σκίτσο του. Πάνω απ’ όλα όμως ο Μποστ ήταν θεατρικός συγγραφέας, σκηνογράφος και ενδυματολόγος με πολύ προσωπικό και μοναδικό ύφος. Από την έρευνα διαπιστώθηκε ότι υπάρχει ένα μεγάλο κενό σχετικά με το θεατρικό corpus του Μποστ, κάτι που έχει οδηγήσει σε λανθασμένη εντύπωση για τον συγγραφέα, για αυτό και η διδακτορική διατριβή επιχειρεί μια εκτενή, ενδελεχή και ολοκληρωμένη προσέγγιση στο θεατρικό και δραματουργικό του corpus, καθώς έχουν ανακαλυφθεί αρκετά ανέκδοτα και άπαιχτα θεατρικά έργα του, αλλά και άγνωστες συνεργασίες του. Έτσι, η διατριβή φέρνει στο φως καινούργιους τίτλους θεατρικών έργων του που ξεπερνούν τον έως τώρα γνωστό αριθμό έργων του, εμπλουτίζοντας σημαντικά τις γνώσεις μας σχετικά με τον θεατρικό Μποστ, ενώ αναλύονται συγχρόνως και οι αισθητικές και ιδεολογικές συνιστώσες τους. Με αυτόν τον τρόπο, η διατριβή φωτίζει τόσο γνωστές όσο και άγνωστες πτυχές της δραματουργίας του, καθώς στην πλειονότητα των κειμένων αυτών παρατηρούνται σημαντικές αποκλίσεις από τις “μποστικές” νόρμες που ξέραμε έως τώρα. Επίσης, η διατριβή προχωρά σε μια σημαντική αποκατάσταση σε ανακρίβειες, ασάφειες και λανθασμένες καταγραφές που έχουν εντοπιστεί τόσο στη βιογραφία του Μποστ όσο και στις θεατρικές συνεργασίες του. Βάσει καταχωρημένων και επιβεβαιωμένων στοιχείων, η διατριβή προβαίνει ακόμα και σε αποκαλύψεις άγνωστων συνεργασιών του Μποστ στο θέατρο, μη καταγεγραμμένων σε κανένα βιογραφικό του σημείωμα. Τέλος, απαντώνται πολλά ερωτήματα αναφορικά με τον Μποστ όπως: ως θεατρικός συγγραφέας είναι χιουμοριστής ή σατιριστής, το θέατρό του είναι παράλογο, σουρεαλιστικό ή μοναδικό, πόσα και ποια έργα συνέγραψε, πόσα εξ αυτών παρέμειναν άπαιχτα, συνθέτει τα κείμενά του σε έμμετρο ή πεζό λόγο, ακολουθεί κάποιους κανόνες στιχουργικής ή όχι, μπορεί να μεταφραστεί ή είναι αμετάφραστος και, το σημαντικότερο, γράφει ασύντακτα ή ανορθόγραφα; Εν ολίγοις, το γενικό, βασικό ερώτημα που απαντάται μέσω της παρούσας διατριβής είναι το: τελικά, πόσο καλά γνωρίζαμε τον θεατρικό Μποστ μέχρι σήμερα;
From learning to creativity
Authors: Ζιώγα Ιωάννα
Published: January 2024

Η δημιουργικότητα είναι στενά συνδεδεμένη με τη γνώση. Οι άνθρωποι συμπεριφέρονται σύμφωνα με κανόνες που έχουν μάθει από την εμπειρία τους. Ωστόσο, οι παλιές συνήθειες πεθαίνουν δύσκολα. Συχνά χρειάζεται να καταπιέζουμε πράγματα που έχουμε μάθει προηγουμένως, για να έχουμε πιο πρωτότυπες και δημιουργικές ιδέες. Η σχέση μεταξύ μάθησης και δημιουργικότητας έχει μελετηθεί μεμονωμένα, ενώ οι νευρικοί μηχανισμοί που διέπουν τη δημιουργία πρωτότυπων ιδεών δεν έχουν εξηγηθεί. Σε αυτή τη διατριβή, διερευνήσαμε τη σχέση μεταξύ μάθησης και δημιουργικότητας από δύο διαφορετικές οπτικές γωνίες: Σημασιολογικές συσχετίσεις μέσω της γλώσσας (Μέρος Α) και εκμάθηση μιας άγνωστης μουσικής στο εργαστήριο (Μέρος Β). Στο Μέρος Α, διερευνήσαμε τον ρόλο των ταλαντώσεων άλφα για τη δημιουργικότητα. Δείξαμε ότι οι κροταφικές άλφα ταλαντώσεις σχετίζονται με την αναστολή συνηθισμένων ιδεών. Επιπλέον, διαπιστώσαμε ότι οι μετωπιαίες άλφα ταλαντώσεις είναι κρίσιμες για τη δημιουργία σημασιολογικά απομακρυσμένων συσχετισμών. Αυτά τα ευρήματα προτείνουν δύο διακριτούς νευρικούς μηχανισμούς για τη δημιουργικότητα. Ωστόσο, για να διερευνήσουμε άμεσα πώς η μάθηση επηρεάζει τη δημιουργικότητα, στη συνέχεια μελετήσαμε τον εγκέφαλο και τη συμπεριφορά κατά τη μάθηση. Στο Μέρος Β, εισαγάγαμε μια νέα πειραματική διαδικασία που συνδυάζει ηλεκτροεγκεφαλογράφο (ΗΕΓ), συμπεριφορικές και υπολογιστικές μεθόδους, για να εξετάσουμε τις εγκεφαλικές αποκρίσεις κατά την εκμάθηση μιας άγνωστης μουσικής και να διερευνήσουμε πώς σχετίζονται με τη δημιουργικότητα. Η μάθηση συσχετίστηκε θετικά με τη δημιουργικότητα. Επίσης, εντοπίσαμε τους εγκεφαλικούς δείκτες της μάθησης που συνδέονταν με τη δημιουργικότητα, όπως αξιολογήθηκε από μουσικούς. Τέλος, διερευνήσαμε μεμονωμένες διαφορές στους νευρικούς συσχετισμούς της μάθησης. Συνολικά, αυτά τα ευρήματα προάγουν την κατανόηση του εγκεφάλου και της δημιουργικότητας, ενώ συνεισφέρουν στην κατανόηση της σχέσης μεταξύ της μάθησης και της δημιουργικότητας.
Η καινοτομική εργασιακή συμπεριφορά των εκπαιδευτικών ως συνάρτηση της αυτοαποτελεσματικότητας, της επαγγελματικής εξουθένωσης και των δυσλειτουργικών μύθων
Authors: Γκοντέλος Άγγελος
Published: January 2024

Η ανθρώπινη συμπεριφορά πηγάζει από τις υιοθετούμενες πεποιθήσεις του ατόμου, η διερεύνηση των οποίων κρίνεται επιβεβλημένη. Καθώς η καλλιέργεια της Καινοτομικής Εργασιακής Συμπεριφοράς των εκπαιδευτικών χαρακτηρίζεται απαραίτητη προϋπόθεση για την ανάπτυξη του σχολικού οργανισμού, οι ατομικοί παράγοντες, όπως η Αυτοαποτελεσματικότητα, η Επαγγελματική Εξουθένωση και οι Δυσλειτουργικοί Μύθοι, φαίνεται πως επιδρούν σημαντικά εντός ενός πολύπλοκου δικτύου. Σκοπός της παρούσας διατριβής είναι η μελέτη του ρόλου αυτών των μεταβλητών για την καινοτομική εργασιακή συμπεριφορά, ταυτόχρονα με την ανάδειξη των μεθοδολογικών ζητημάτων. Το δείγμα αποτέλεσαν 964 εκπαιδευτικοί Πρωτοβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης, ενώ αξιοποιήθηκαν τέσσερα ερωτηματολόγια αυτοαναφοράς για τη συλλογή των δεδομένων. Τα αποτελέσματα περιλαμβάνουν την προσαρμογή τριών εργαλείων μέτρησης για τον ελληνικό πληθυσμό, την κατασκευή ενός μοντέλου δομικών εξισώσεων βάσει της Θεωρίας Εργασιακών Απαιτήσεων-Πόρων και την παρουσίαση ενός μη γραμμικού μοντέλου Cusp υπό το πρίσμα της Θεωρίας Καταστροφών. Τα ευρήματα εξετάζονται στο πλαίσιο της βιβλιογραφίας του πεδίου, ενώ παρέχονται μεθοδολογικές και πρακτικές προεκτάσεις.
BUDOWANIE WIZERUNKU MAREK SAMOCHODÓW OSOBOWYCH PRZY WYKORZYSTANIU PORTALU FACEBOOK
Authors: Sobiech Olaf
Published: January 2024

Wzrastająca konkurencja, coraz mniejsza skuteczność tradycyjnej reklamy sprawia, że przedsiębiorcy poszukując nowych możliwości coraz większe budżety kierują w stronę mediów społecznościowych. Zasadniczym elementem silnej marki jest jej wizerunek, na który wpływ ma wiele czynników, jednym z nich jest skuteczna komunikacja. Media społecznościowe a w szczególności Facebook staje się pomostem komunikacji łączącym markę  z konsumentem. Celem głównym artykułu jest ocena wykorzystania portalu społecznościowego Facebook do budowania wizerunku marek samochodów osobowych. Dla potrzeb realizacji celu przeprowadzono analizę działań wizerunkowych wybranych marek samochodów na portalu Facebook oraz badanie metodą ankietową wśród użytkowników tego portalu.
Following Kant's footsteps in Spain
Authors: Leszczyna Dorota
Published: January 2024

In 1876, Hans Vaihinger, a German philosopher and professor at the University of Halle, founded the journal Kant-Studien. One of the main objectives of this project was to investigate the impact of Kantian philosophy outside Germany. The first correspondent for the journal was a Polish philosopher and national activist – Wincenty Lutosławski. His report on the study of the Spanish reception of Kant was published in the first issue of the journal Kant-Studien in 1897 under the title “Kant in Spanien.” In my article I present the history of the emergence of Lutosławski’s report and I describe the Polish encounters with Spanish culture and philosophy in the 19th century.
Genesis of the Polish translation of Prolegomena to Any Future Metaphysics That Will Be Able to Present Itself as a Science
Authors: Kuliniak Radosław , Leszczyna Dorota
Published: January 2024

Immanuel Kant's critical philosophy made its presence in Polish philosophy at the turn of the 20th century through translations of two works: the Prolegomena and the Critique of Pure Reason. The initiator of this undertaking was Henryk Struve, supported by Kazimierz Twardowski and Władysław Weryho. It was through the determination of these scholars that Polish philosophy assimilated Kant’s most important works of critical philosophy. In a mere dozen or so years, the Polish philosophical community received translations of almost all of Kant’s major works. This article presents the genesis of the emergence of the first Polish translation of the Prolegomena. It describes the issues faced by translators and editors, and points out the polemics and discussions sparked by the first Polish translation of the Prolegomena.
The early Polish attempts at translating Immanuel Kant's Critique of Pure Reason
Authors: Ratajczak Łukasz
Published: January 2024

This article presents the history of the first Polish translation of the Prolegomena to Any Future Metaphysics. An active role in its creation was played by: Henryk Struve, Romuald Grzymała-Piątkowski, and Kazimierz Twardowski. The study reveals the problem of the organisers of this initiative to the appointment of a translator and the preparation of the translation's publication. The key role was played by Struve. Twardowski limited himself to criticism, both of the editors of the "Biblioteka Filozoficzna" and of the translator himself. The translation was eventually published in 1901. Despite its flaws and numerous shortcomings, it was the first work by Kant representing a mature critical philosophy to be published in Polish.
Diabetic kidney disease – Part 2: Management
Authors: Morris
Published: January 2024

David Morris details what nurses need to know when managing patients with diabetic kidney disease
Bronchitis: an overview for primary care nurses
Authors: Bostock
Published: January 2024

Beverley Bostock looks at this respiratory condition which commonly presents in winter