bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D Status During Adolescence and the Impact of Lifestyle Changes: 2 Years’ Follow-up From the Fit Futures Study
Authors: Öberg Johanna , Jorde Rolf , Almås Bjørg , Nielsen Christopher Sivert , Gerds Thomas Alexander , Cashman Kevin D , Grimnes Guri
Published: November 2023

Context

Longitudinal data regarding vitamin D status in adolescence is scarce. This study presents population-based data from an Arctic adolescent population (n = 589) at 16 and 18 years.

Objective

The aims of this study were to investigate changes in vitamin D status during 2 years in adolescence, and whether lifestyle changes were associated with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (s-25(OH)D) at follow-up.

Methods

Fit Futures is a longitudinal study at 69°N in Norway. Participants had their s-25(OH)D levels analyzed in their first and third year of upper secondary school (median age 16 and 18 years), in Fit Futures 1 (FF1) and Fit Futures 2 (FF2), respectively. Self-reported lifestyle habits were registered through questionnaires. The association between lifestyle changes and s-25(OH)D levels at follow-up were calculated by regression analyses, controlling for baseline s-25(OH)D levels.

Results

Longitudinal data were available for 309 girls and 280 boys. The proportion of adolescents with s-25(OH)D <50 nmol/L were 73.7% in FF1 and 77.1% in FF2, while the proportion <30 nmol/L constituted 35.7% in FF1 and 40.9% in FF2. Of those with s-25(OH)D <30 nmol/L (severe vitamin D deficiency) in FF1, 73.3% remained severely deficient in FF2. Among boys, an increase in UV exposure was significantly associated with higher s-25(OH)D levels in FF2 (beta; CI [nmol/L] 12.9; 9.1, 16.7). In girls, decreased vitamin/mineral supplement intake was significantly associated with lower s-25(OH)D at FF2 (−6.7; −10.2, −3.1), while increased UV (10.8; 7.0, 14.7) and combined hormonal contraceptive exposure (12.1; 6.0, 18.1) in FF2 was significantly associated with higher s-25(OH)D levels in FF2.

Conclusion

Severe vitamin D deficiency was prevalent throughout adolescence. Lifestyle changes may alter s-25(OH)D levels in this age group.
Signs of Glucagon Resistance After a 2-Week Hypercaloric Diet Intervention
Authors: Suppli Malte Palm , Høgedal Astrid , Bagger Jonatan Ising , Chabanova Elizaveta , van Hall Gerrit , Forman Julie Lyng , Christensen Mikkel Bring , Albrechtsen Nicolai Jacob Wewer , Holst Jens Juul , Knop Filip Krag
Published: November 2023

Context

Hyperglucagonemia is observed in individuals with obesity and contributes to the hyperglycemia of patients with type 2 diabetes. Hyperglucagonemia may develop due to steatosis-induced hepatic glucagon resistance resulting in impaired hepatic amino acid turnover and ensuing elevations of circulating glucagonotropic amino acids.

Objective

We evaluated whether glucagon resistance could be induced in healthy individuals by a hypercaloric diet intervention designed to increase hepatic fat content.

Methods

We recruited 20 healthy male individuals to follow a hypercaloric diet and a sedentary lifestyle for 2 weeks. Amino acid concentrations in response to infusion of glucagon were assessed during a pancreatic clamp with somatostatin and basal insulin. The reversibility of any metabolic changes was assessed 8 weeks after the intervention. Hepatic steatosis was assessed by magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results

The intervention led to increased hepatic fat content (382% [206%; 705%], P < .01). Glucagon infusion led to a decrease in the concentration of total amino acids on all experimental days, but the percentage change in total amino acids was reduced (−2.5% ± 0.5% vs −0.2% ± 0.7%, P = .015) and the average slope of the decline in the total amino acid concentration was less steep (−2.0 ± 1.2 vs −1.2 ± 0.3 μM/min, P = .016) after the intervention compared to baseline. The changes were normalized at follow-up.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that short-term unhealthy behavior, which increases hepatic fat content, causes a reversible resistance to the effect of glucagon on amino acid concentrations in healthy individuals, which may explain the hyperglucagonemia associated with obesity and diabetes.
Top-Down Proteomics of Mouse Islets With Beta Cell CPE Deletion Reveals Molecular Details in Prohormone Processing
Authors: Fulcher James M , Swensen Adam C , Chen Yi-Chun , Verchere C Bruce , Petyuk Vladislav A , Qian Wei-Jun
Published: November 2023

Altered prohormone processing, such as with proinsulin and pro-islet amyloid polypeptide (proIAPP), has been reported as an important feature of prediabetes and diabetes. Proinsulin processing includes removal of several C-terminal basic amino acids and is performed principally by the exopeptidase carboxypeptidase E (CPE), and mutations in CPE or other prohormone convertase enzymes (PC1/3 and PC2) result in hyperproinsulinemia. A comprehensive characterization of the forms and quantities of improperly processed insulin and other hormone products following Cpe deletion in pancreatic islets has yet to be attempted. In the present study we applied top-down proteomics to globally evaluate the numerous proteoforms of hormone processing intermediates in a β-cell-specific Cpe knockout mouse model. Increases in dibasic residue–containing proinsulin and other novel proteoforms of improperly processed proinsulin were found, and we could classify several processed proteoforms as novel substrates of CPE. Interestingly, some other known substrates of CPE remained unaffected despite its deletion, implying that paralogous processing enzymes such as carboxypeptidase D (CPD) can compensate for CPE loss and maintain near normal levels of hormone processing. In summary, our quantitative results from top-down proteomics of islets provide unique insights into the complexity of hormone processing products and the regulatory mechanisms.
“A Land of Dreams and Nightmares”: Race, Afro-Asia, and Decolonization in Mauritius
Authors: Rouphail Robert M.
Published: November 2023

The Cold War Indian Ocean world was a space in transition. As European empires retreated from the ocean's littoral states, the structure and makeup of what political entities would follow remained opaque and contested. Mauritius's relatively late formal decolonization in 1968 was a case in point: as “winds of change” blew across Indian Ocean Africa, the impending departure of the British from the island threw into stark relief how different racial groups understood their collective diasporic pasts and weighed potential futures free from British rule. This essay examines how race shaped popular conversations on Mauritian political independence through two areas of analysis. The first is a discussion of Mauricianisme, a mid-century project of building a multiracial Mauritian political identity that could accommodate and integrate its African and Asian components to chart a path forward in the postcolonial world. Second is an analysis of a singular Afro-Mauritian newspaper published in the 1950s and 1960s, L’Épée, and how it approached questions of race and decolonization. Taken together, the following pages offer a view into how nationwide debates attempted to reconcile deep histories that spanned the Indian Ocean and to smooth the jagged historical rifts between communal groups with an eye toward political independence.
Parameterizing mechanistic niche models in biophysical ecology: a review of empirical approaches
Authors: Riddell Eric A. , Burger Isabella J. , Tyner-Swanson Tamara L. , Biggerstaff Justin , Muñoz Martha M. , Levy Ofir , Porter Cody K.
Published: November 2023

Mechanistic niche models are computational tools developed using biophysical principles to address grand challenges in ecology and evolution, such as the mechanisms that shape the fundamental niche and the adaptive significance of traits. Here, we review the empirical basis of mechanistic niche models in biophysical ecology, which are used to answer a broad array of questions in ecology, evolution and global change biology. We describe the experiments and observations that are frequently used to parameterize these models and how these empirical data are then incorporated into mechanistic niche models to predict performance, growth, survival and reproduction. We focus on the physiological, behavioral and morphological traits that are frequently measured and then integrated into these models. We also review the empirical approaches used to incorporate evolutionary processes, phenotypic plasticity and biotic interactions. We discuss the importance of validation experiments and observations in verifying underlying assumptions and complex processes. Despite the reliance of mechanistic niche models on biophysical theory, empirical data have and will continue to play an essential role in their development and implementation.
What makes a great invader? Anatomical traits as predictors of locomotor performance and metabolic rate in an invasive frog
Authors: Padilla Pablo , Herrel Anthony , Denoël Mathieu
Published: November 2023

Invasive species are characterized by their ability to establish and spread in a new environment. In alien populations of anurans, dispersal and fitness-related traits such as endurance, burst performance and metabolism are key to their success. However, few studies have investigated inter-individual variation in these traits and more specifically have attempted to understand the drivers of variation in these traits. Associations of anatomical features may be excellent predictors of variation in performance and could be targets for selection or subject to trade-offs during invasions. In this study, we used marsh frogs (Pelophylax ridibundus), a species that has been introduced in many places outside its native range and which is now colonizing large areas of Western Europe. We first measured the inter-individual variation in resting metabolism, the time and distance they were able to jump until exhaustion, and their peak jump force, and then measured the mass of specific organs and lengths of body parts suspected to play a role in locomotion and metabolism. Among the 5000 bootstrap replicates on body size-corrected variables, our statistical models most often selected the stomach (75.42%), gonads (71.46%) and the kidneys (67.26%) as predictors of inter-individual variation in metabolism, and the gluteus maximus muscle (97.24%) mass was the most frequently selected predictor of jump force. However, endurance was poorly associated with the anatomical traits (R2distance=0.42, R2time=0.37). These findings suggest that selection on these predictors may lead to physiological changes that may affect the colonization, establishment and dispersal of these frogs.
A snapshot of 100 years of discovery
Authors: Knight Kathryn
Published: November 2023

With a century of literature behind Journal of Experimental Biology (JEB) in 2023, I look at some of the extraordinary papers contained within its archive. From publishing Nobel Prize-inspiring discoveries to founding fields and solving long-standing mysteries, the journal has been at the hub of experimental biology for 10 decades, leading the way and shining a light on the physiology of many remarkable animal species. In this Perspective, I highlight some of the key players in the field, summarise their seminal works and consider their long-term impact as JEB embarks on its next 100 years.
Συγκλίσεις αρχείου και performance
Authors: Σιδέρη Μαρία
Published: November 2023

Η διενεργούμενη έρευνα κινείται στο χώρο των σπουδών της performance επιζητώντας νέες νοηματοδοτήσεις και στοιχειοθετήσεις των εννοιών του αρχείου, της σωματικότητας και της νομαδικότητας σε μια εποχή αρχειακής εξόντωσης. Οι καλλιτεχνικές πρακτικές που παρουσιάζονται επικεντρώνονται σε καλλιτεχνικά παραδείγματα του 21ου αιώνα αλλά και σε αρχειακές πρακτικές που αναταράσσουν το κυρίαρχο, δυτικό και κλασικό ορισμό του αρχείου μέσα από ενσώματες φεμινιστικές και κουήρ αρχειακές μεθοδολογίες. Υβριδικές καλλιτεχνικές πρακτικές που συνιστούν άλλου τύπου αρχεία, αρχεία συναισθήματος, τραύματος και μαρτυρίας, εναλλακτικές μορφές καλλιτεχνικής τεκμηρίωσης, περιπτώσεις μελέτης αρχείων και αρχειακών project συντελούν σε μία πιο διευρυμένη έννοια της σωματικότητας και της επιτελεστικότητας του αρχείου. Το κύριο αντικείμενο του προβληματισμού περιστρέφεται γύρω από τις συγκλίσεις μεταξύ της performance και του αρχείου, τα όρια και τις προοπτικές τους. Δίνεται ιδιαίτερη έμφαση σε έργα που αναδεικνύουν το σώμα ως αρχειοθετικό και γνωστικό μηχανισμό, σε μεθοδολογίες που προτείνουν την επιτελεστικότητα αρχείων μέσα από τις έμφυλες διεκδικήσεις, αλλά και στις παραλείψεις και διαγραφές αρχείων που θέτουν την ανάγκη της σύστασης νέων αρχείων στο παρόν και στο μέλλον. Η πληθώρα διαφορετικών τρόπων καταγραφής και αρχειοθέτησης της performance συνδέεται με διευρυμένες πρακτικές της μνήμης ενώ η performance μελετάται ως τόπος μνήμης που δημιουργεί νέα πεδία γνώσης μέσα από τη διαμόρφωση του αρχείου της. Περιπτώσεις μελέτης παρεμβάσεων και επισκέψεων σε διαφορετικά αρχεία αλλά και προτάσεις συγκρότησης νέων αρχείων επιτρέπουν μια κριτική ματιά απέναντι σε συλλογικές διαδικασίες που ενεργοποιούν εναλλακτικές δυναμικές αρχειοθέτησης. Επιχειρώ ντας την πρόσληψη της αρχειακής έρευνας ως επιτελέσης προτείνεται επίσης, ένα καλλιτεχνικό project το οποίο συνοψίζει θεωρήσεις γύρω από τη σχέση αρχείου και σωματικότητας διαμέσου των σπουδών performance, της κριτικής θεωρίας και του σωματικού φεμινισμού. Οι συγκλίσεις της performance και του αρχείου στοχεύουν στην κατανόηση της σωματικότητας ως μετασχηματιστή κινητικότητας και ρευστότητας και ως θετικό χαρακτηριστικό του αρχείου. Τα σώματα ως αρχεία και τα αρχεία ως σώματα υπερβαίνουν και αμφισβητούν την παραδοσιακή έννοια του αρχείου ως ένα σταθερό τόπο συσσώρευσης τεκμηρίων και μνήμης προτείνοντας να γίνει αντιληπτό το αρχείο ως ένας σωματοποιημένος χώρος διάδρασης σε συνεχή ροή.
A review of existing neonatal hyperbilirubinemia guidelines in Indonesia
Authors: Sampurna Mahendra Tri Arif , Pratama Danny Chandra , Visuddho Visuddho , Oktaviana Novita , Putra Achmad Januar Er , Zakiyah Rahmi , Ahmad Jordy Maulana , Etika Risa , Handayani Kartika Darma , Utomo Martono Tri , Angelica Dina , Ayuningtyas Wurry , Hendrarto Toto Wisnu , Rohsiswatmo Rinawati , Wandita Setya , Kaban Risma Karina , Liem Kian Djien
Published: November 2023

Background Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is one of the most common conditions for neonate inpatients. Indonesia faces a major challenge in which different guidelines regarding the management of this condition were present. This study aimed to compare the existing guidelines regarding prevention, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring in order to create the best recommendation for a new hyperbilirubinemia guideline in Indonesia. Methods Through an earlier survey regarding adherence to the neonatal hyperbilirubinemia guideline, we identified that three main guidelines are being used in Indonesia. These were developed by the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IPS), the Ministry of Health (MoH), and World Health Organization (WHO). In this study, we compared factors such as prevention, monitoring, methods for identifying, risk factors in the development of neonatal jaundice, risk factors that increase brain damage, and intervention treatment threshold in the existing guidelines to determine the best recommendations for a new guideline. Results The MoH and WHO guidelines allow screening and treatment of hyperbilirubinemia based on visual examination (VE) only. Compared with the MoH and WHO guidelines, risk assessment is comprehensively discussed in the IPS guideline. The MoH guideline recommends further examination of an icteric baby to ensure that the mother has enough milk without measuring the bilirubin level. The MoH guideline recommends referring the baby when it looks yellow on the soles and palms. The WHO and IPS guidelines recommend combining VE with an objective measurement of transcutaneous or serum bilirubin. The threshold to begin phototherapy in the WHO guideline is lower than the IPS guideline while the exchange transfusion threshold in both guidelines are comparably equal. Conclusions The MoH guideline is outdated. MoH and IPS guidelines are causing differences in approaches to the management hyperbilirubinemia. A new, uniform guideline is required.
Effectiveness of avocado leaf extract (Persea americana Mill.) as antihypertensive
Authors: Sutiningsih Dwi , Sari Dewi Puspito , Adi Mateus Sakundarno , Hadi Mochammad , Azzahra Nur Azizah
Published: November 2023

BackgroundAvocado leaves (Persea americanaMill.) have been traditionally used as antihypertensive. Various studies have tested the benefits of thePersea americanaMill. in treating hypertension but still using extracts not yet using nanoparticles. Therefore, this study aims to study the effectiveness of avocado leaf extract, including the nanoparticles, on salt-induced hypertensive Wistar rats in inhibiting the ACE enzyme, which causes decreasing systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) as well as increasing urine volume.MethodsThis study used an experimentalin vivostudy design involving 24 white male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), aged 2–3 months, weighing 130–250 g, and of a healthy condition with active movement. The samples were randomly divided into six treatment groups and post-test only research design with control group design.ResultsThe result of the study showed that the extract contained a quercetin of 1129.597 ppm and 10 mineral compounds, including potassium, with the highest content. The analysis of antioxidant activity using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method showed that the antioxidant activity at IC50 was 44.734 ppm. TheP. americanaleaf extract nanoparticles had the most significant result in reducing blood pressure in Wistar rats induced by 16% NaCl for 14 days SBP to normal was by 68.75 mmHg (175.00±21.57 mmHg to 106.25±9.21 mmHg) and 55.25 mmHg (128.42±25.75 mmHg to 73.17±15.75 mmHg), respectively. Also, avocado leaf extract caused the decrease of SBP from 164.92±7.16 mmHg to 116.83±6.36 mmHg and DBP from 118.42±16.24 mmHg to 82.83±6.47 mmHg. TheP. americanaleaf extract nanoparticles resulted in the most urine volume at 13.5 ml, with the highest DAI value of 2.25. The ACE inhibitor test using the ELISA method showed that theP. americanaleaf extract and the nanoparticle extract inhibition against the ACE enzyme were 60.0±12.1 % and 59.5±3%, respectively. The mean serum nitrate as a result ofP. americanaleaf extract (K4) and nanoparticles ofP. americanaleaf extract (K5) were 44.0±9.0 μmol/L and 41.1±11.5 μmol/L, respectively. The mean of serum nitrite was led byP. americanaleaf extract (K4), and nanoparticles of P. americana leaf extract (K5) were 83.7±24.0 μmol/L and 81.0±23.2 μmol/L, sequentially.ConclusionsThe study showed that the leaf extract and nanoparticle extract ofPersea americanaMill. was effective as an antihypertensive.
Pharmaceutical policy and innovation for rare diseases: A narrative review
Authors: Alonso Ruiz Adrián , Large Kaitlin , Moon Suerie , Vieira Marcela
Published: November 2023

This article aims to synthesize the existing literature on the implementation of public policies to incentivize the development of treatments for rare diseases, (diseases with very low prevalence and therefore with low commercial interest) otherwise known as orphan drugs. The implementation of these incentives in the United States (US), Japan, and in the European Union (EU) seems to be related to a substantial increase in treatments for these diseases, and has influenced the way the pharmaceutical research & development (R&D) system operates beyond this policy area. Despite the success of the Orphan Drug model, the academic literature also highlights the negative implications that these public policies have on affordability and access to orphan drugs, as well as on the prioritization of certain disease rare areas over others. The synthesis focuses mostly on the United States’ Orphan Drug Act (ODA) as a model for subsequent policies in other regions and countries. It starts with a historical overview of the creation of the term “rare diseases”, continues with a summary of the evidence available on the US ODA’s positive and negative impacts, and provides a summary of the different proposals to reform these incentives in light of the negative outcomes described. Finally, it describes some key aspects of the Japanese and European policies, as well as some of the challenges captured in the literature related to their impact in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).
Effect of topical Zingiber cassumunar on painful diabetic neuropathy: a double-blind randomized-controlled trial
Authors: Jatuten Nachapol , Piyakunmala Phuangthong , Budkaew Jiratha , Chumworathayi Bandit
Published: November 2023

Background Plai or Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. was registered into the Thai Traditional Medicine list since 2011. However, there is limited evidence regarding Plai as a treatment in painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN). Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of topical Zingiber cassumunar. Methods A RCT was conducted in patients with PDN during February to March 2019. All participants received oral gabapentin 300 mg before bed as a standard regimen. The intervention group (n=16) received Plai balm 15%w/w 0.5 gram to apply on their feet three times a day and the control group (n=15) received placebo balm to similarly apply. Pain score at baseline, 2nd and 4th weeks were assessed and compared. Patients’ quality of life, and adverse events, were collected. Mean pain scores before and after treatment in each group and between groups were also analyzed. Results At the end of week two and week four, the Plai group showed statistically significant lesser mean pain scores than the placebo group by -1.47 (95%CI: -1.96 to -1.30, p-value < 0.001), and by -1.51 (95%CI: -1.92 to -0.13, p-value = 0.027), respectively. Moreover, the Plai group had more cases number/ percentages with at least 50% pain score reduction than the placebo group [12/16 (75%) vs 3/15 (20%), p-value = 0.004]. However, there was no statistically significant difference in quality of life between the two groups (overall p-value = 0.366). Adverse event was not found in any groups. Conclusions Zingiber cassumunar balm (Plai) was efficacious for pain reduction in painful diabetic neuropathy. Registration Registered with the Thai Clinical Trials Registry; TCTR20200221001.
Satisfactory result of great saphenous vein endovenous laser ablation until below the knee on active venous leg ulcer: a case series
Authors: Taofan Taofan , Dakota Iwan , Kartamihardja Achmad Hafiedz Azis , Afandy Jonathan Edbert , Indriani Suci , Adiarto Suko
Published: November 2023

Background Active venous leg ulcer (VLU) is the most severe manifestation of chronic venous disease which not only affects patients’ health, but also decreases the quality of life, and delivers economic burdens. Treatment of superficial venous reflux with early endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) has been associated with reducing ulcer recurrence levels and promoting faster VLU healing. We reported three cases of patients with active VLU undergoing EVLA with different approaches. Case illustration Three patients came with complaint of leg ulcer, diagnosed with C6sEpAsdPr, with venous clinical severity scores (VCSS) of 15, 23, and 22 respectively. Severe great saphenous veins (GSV) reflux was found in all patients by duplex ultrasound examination. The second patient had undergone above-the-knee EVLA. All patients underwent EVLA using 1470-nano meter wavelength laser device and ELVeS radial fiber (Biolitec, Bonn, Germany). The laser energy protocol used was 6 W linear endovenous energy density (LEED) 50 J/cm for proximal until media ATK GSV ablation, 5 W LEED 40 J/cm for media ATK until proximal below-the-knee (BTK) GSV, and 2 W LEED 20 J/cm for proximal until distal BTK GSV. The third patient was also treated with EVLA for small saphenous vein severe reflux. Follow-up until 6 months post-EVLA showed significant healing of the ulcer with 14, 16, and 17 VCSS reduction consecutively without any complication. Conclusion We’ve reported three cases of patients with active VLU undergoing EVLA until BTK with significant results. The EVLA of GSV until BTK where there is still significant reflux is safe and provides satisfactory results in patients with VLU.
Association between physical activity and mental wellbeing amongst adults in the urban area of the Wardha District – A study protocol
Authors: Shukla Apoorva , Choudhari Sonali
Published: November 2023

Introduction Severe mental illness is a pressing social issue that needs to be immediately addressed in India and globally. Unfortunately, the mental health of many adults in India and other countries has been declining. Fortunately, physical activity has proven to be an effective way to address this issue and provides many beneficial effects. Thus, mental wellbeing stipulates how the person feels when all the associated elements are considered. Objectives The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between physical activity and adult mental health. Methods This study will be conducted online using cross-sectional methods. Data will be collected using four validated questionnaires, the Short‑form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) version 2.0, the Warwick‑Edinburg Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS), the Pemberton Happiness Index (PHI), and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), all in English. Study implications The motive of this study is to explore any connections that might lie between physical activity and emotional health. The study will specifically focus on the intensity by which physical activity is done, ranging from lower to higher, and how it affects mental illness symptoms and general mental health.
Case Report: Concomitant spontaneous dissection of the coronary artery and internal carotid artery in a young man
Authors: Laajimi Sondes , Mbarek Rabeb , Dhaoui Randa , Bradai Haifa , Loghmari Dorra , Nouira Semir
Published: November 2023

Introduction Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a relatively rare cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), generally affecting young or middle-aged women and people with few conventional atherosclerosis risk factors. Its association with dissection of the internal carotid artery is exceptional. Through our observation of a concomitant spontaneous coronary and carotid dissection, we discuss its clinical presentation, therapeutic management, pathogenesis and factors favouring its occurrence. Case We report the case of a 34-year-old man admitted to emergency with a segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The patient developed right hemiplegia and aphasia. Cerebral CT revealed a left ischaemic stroke in the anterior junctional territory, and CT angiography of the supra-aortic arteries revealed a dissection of the left internal carotid artery. However, CT angiography of the aorta revealed no abnormalities. Coronary angiography performed after 48 hours showed a dissection of the anterior inter-ventricular artery. Conclusions Concurrent dissection of the coronary and internal carotid arteries with an uninjured aorta is a rare entity. This association suggests a congenital pathology of the vessels such as Marfan’s disease or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Effect of glycerin as a plasticizer on flexural strength in the fabrication of gypsum-based chip
Authors: Madarina Amira , Irawan Bambang , Sunarso Sunarso
Published: November 2023

Background: Ceramic-based drug delivery systems has received significant attention in both medical and material domains. This study used gypsum as a base material for drug delivery chips, which has the potential to replace existing materials such as collagen and gelatin. The choice of gypsum as a material was based on a unique combination of osteoconductive, bioresorbable, and biodegradable characteristics.

Methods: In this study, glycerin was added to distilled water at different concentrations (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%) to increase the flexibility of gypsum. Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate powder was then combined with a mixed solution of water and glycerin and stirred. The mixture was then placed in an acrylic mold measuring 25 x 3 x 1.5 mm and allowed to dry for 24 hours at room temperature. After that, the specimen was analyzed to determine flexural strength using the Universal Testing Machine with a three-point bending method at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min.

Results: Statistical analysis revealed that the inclusion of glycerin led to an increase in the percentage of strain. However, it has been observed that the mechanical strength of gypsum chips shows a proportional decrease with increasing glycerin concentration.

Conclusions: It can be concluded that the addition of glycerin into the gypsum chip can increase the elasticity of the chip even though the flexural strength is reduced.
Case Report: Fever of unknown origin caused by type Ⅱ lepra reaction
Authors: Ran Xiaojuan , Ma Ke , Wang Yanxia , Wu Yayun
Published: November 2023

We report an ethnic minority patient presenting as fever of unknown origin for over 25 days, who was admitted with atypical cutaneous lesions, damages in the peripheral joints and nervous system. Owing to tracing the past medical history, the patient has received a prompt diagnosis and achieved good outcome. By summarizing the entire diagnosis and treatment process, we report the case to deepen the understanding of fever of unknown origin caused by type Ⅱ lepra reaction. All specialties, meanwhile, should be aware of the rare infectious diseases in daily medical practice.
Relationship Between Xylene, Rq Xylene Concentration And Heart Function In Industrial Workers In Surabaya
Authors: Tualeka Abdul Rohim , Martiana Tri , Aziz Mohd Yusmaidie , Thamaraikani Tamilanban , Rosnon Roslan , Novianti Salsabila , Rahmawati Pudji , Ahsan Ahsan
Published: November 2023

Background Xylene is an organic solvent that is often used by industrial workers. Some industries that require xylene include the painting, printing, and shoe industries. In general, this enters the body through the inhalation pathway, namely the inhalation of xylene vapors while working. Methods Observational analytic research is conducted by looking at the relationship test with calculations using the chi-square method. The study was conducted in five regions in Surabaya, namely Kalijudan, Ketintang, Jemursari, AUP, and Romokalisari. The population includes a total of 90 workers with 77 of them taken as samples using the accidental sampling method. Results The results show that there is a relationship between xylene concentration and Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT) levels (p> 0.05) and there is no relationship between xylene concentrations and Serum Glutamic Pyruvate Transaminase (SGPT) levels (p> 0.05). There was no relationship between RQ and SGOT levels (p> 0.05) and there was no relationship between RQ and SGPT levels (p> 0.05). However, from the calculation of the prevalence ratio, workers with unsafe RQ (RQ>1) have a 7.09x greater chance of experiencing damage to SGOT levels and a 1.06x greater chance to experience damage to SGPT levels. Conclusions Based on these results, the industry is encouraged to provide nutritious food intake that can help excrete xylene from the body of the worker. Xylene concentration and RQ may play a role in the potential damage to SGOT and SGPT levels in workers.
Case Report: Cytodiagnosis of primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) of sinonasal tract
Authors: Khan Simran , Bhake Arvind
Published: November 2023

Malignant sinonasal tumors are rarely encountered in the practice of oncology as they constitute only 1% of total body tumors. The occurrence of primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) in the sinonasal tract is even more uncommon. The PNET belongs to Ewing sarcoma family and forms the differential diagnosis of a large group of lesions generally described as malignant round cell tumors. The unique pathogenetic chromosomal alteration in this lesion is the EWS FLI1 fusion gene. This case report describes the unusual occurrence of PNET for its cytomorphological diagnosis along with its clinical features, radioimaging findings and immunohistochemistry. Such case reports are scarce in literature and cytodiagnosis of PNET in sinonasal tracts warrants its sharing with medical fraternity as such diagnoses are stumbled along rarely in clinical practice.
Case Report: Shewanella algae, a rare cause of osteosynthesis-associated infection
Authors: Masmoudi Sofiane , Khlif Mohamed Ali , Battikh Hajer , Zribi Meriam , Barsaoui Maher , Zitouna Khaled
Published: November 2023

Shewanella is an emerging human pathogen. It mostly causes skin and soft tissue infections. Osteosynthesis-associated infection involving Shewanella are rare and in most cases are secondary to direct contamination following open fractures in aquatic environments. Here, we present a rare case of hematogenous osteosynthesis-associated infection involving Shewanella algae affecting an 18-year-old patient who was operated on for 12th thoracic vertebrae and 4th lumbar vertebrae fractures occurring in an aquatic environment. We performed surgical debridement with subsequent double course parenteral antibiotherapy that was then adapted to bacteria sensitivities for three weeks. After a follow-up of six months, the patient had no signs of recurrent infection. The presence of infected dermabrasions and the concordance between germs isolated in operative samples and in blood cultures presumes that the contamination was hematogenous.
Co-designing a recruitment strategy for lung cancer screening in high-risk individuals: protocol for a mixed-methods study
Authors: Reilly Maeve , Ali Ahmeda , Doyle Prof Frank , Cotter Seamus , Heavey Laura , Brain Prof Kate , Rankin Prof Nicole , Mccutchan Grace , Redmond Prof Patrick
Published: November 2023

Background Lung cancer is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with early detection through screening critical to improving patient outcomes. However, recruiting high-risk individuals, particularly in deprived populations, for screening remains a considerable challenge. This study aims to co-design a targeted recruitment strategy for lung cancer screening, tailored to the specific needs and experiences of high-risk individuals, in collaboration with a Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) panel and expert stakeholders in Ireland. Methods We will employ a mixed-methods design guided by the Medical Research Council (MRC) framework for developing complex interventions. Our approach will integrate systematic review findings on screening participation interventions, evaluation of the recruitment strategy's feasibility in an Irish context, and the application of behavioural science frameworks. The target population includes individuals over 55 years, either current smokers or those who quit within the last year, who reside in highly deprived areas. Conclusion This co-designed recruitment strategy will combine evidence-based research, local context understanding, and stakeholder input to develop a solution that is both scientifically robust and tailored to the target population's needs. This patient-centred approach aims to increase the potential for successful implementation of lung cancer screening programs, thereby improving early detection and patient outcomes.
Ergolide mediates anti-cancer effects on metastatic uveal melanoma cells and modulates their cellular and extracellular vesicle proteomes
Authors: Sundaramurthi Husvinee , Tonelotto Valentina , Wynne Kieran , O'Connell Fiona , O’Reilly Eve , Costa-Garcia Marcel , Kovácsházi Csenger , Kittel Agnes , Marcone Simone , Blanco Alfonso , Pallinger Eva , Hambalkó Szabolcs , Piulats Rodriguez Jose Maria , Ferdinandy Péter , O'Sullivan Jacintha , Matallanas David , Jensen Lasse D. , Giricz Zoltán , Kennedy Breandán N.
Published: November 2023

Background Uveal melanoma is a poor prognosis cancer. Ergolide, a sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Inula Brittanica, exerts anti-cancer properties. The objective of this study was to 1) evaluate whether ergolide reduced metastatic uveal melanoma (MUM) cell survival/viability in vitro and in vivo; and 2) to understand the molecular mechanism of ergolide action. Methods Ergolide bioactivity was screened via long-term proliferation assay in UM/MUM cells and in zebrafish MUM xenograft models. Mass spectrometry profiled proteins modulated by ergolide within whole cell or extracellular vesicle (EVs) lysates of the OMM2.5 MUM cell line. Protein expression was analyzed by immunoblots and correlation analyses to UM patient survival used The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data. Results Ergolide treatment resulted in significant, dose-dependent reductions (48.5 to 99.9%; p<0.0001) in OMM2.5 cell survival in vitro and of normalized primary zebrafish xenograft fluorescence (56%; p<0.0001) in vivo, compared to vehicle controls. Proteome-profiling of ergolide-treated OMM2.5 cells, identified 5023 proteins, with 52 and 55 proteins significantly altered at 4 and 24 hours, respectively (p<0.05; fold-change >1.2). Immunoblotting of heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1) and growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) corroborated the proteomic data. Additional proteomics of EVs isolated from OMM2.5 cells treated with ergolide, detected 2931 proteins. There was a large overlap with EV proteins annotated within the Vesiclepedia compendium. Within the differentially expressed proteins, the proteasomal pathway was primarily altered. Interestingly, BRCA2 and CDKN1A Interacting Protein (BCCIP) and Chitinase Domain Containing 1 (CHID1), were the only proteins significantly differentially expressed by ergolide in both the OMM2.5 cellular and EV isolates and they displayed inverse differential expression in the cells versus the EVs. Conclusions Ergolide is a novel, promising anti-proliferative agent for UM/MUM. Proteomic profiling of OMM2.5 cellular/EV lysates identified candidate pathways elucidating the action of ergolide and putative biomarkers of UM, that require further examination.
Syberyjskie mniejszości na wojnie w Ukrainie: od reprezentacji społecznych po wernakularne formy ideologizacji
Authors: Szmyt Zbigniew
Published: November 2023

Przedstawiciele syberyjskich mniejszości etnicznych uczestniczyli w rosyjskiej agresji na Ukrainę od 2014 roku. Nadreprezentacja Buriatów i Tuwańczyków w szeregach rosyjskiej armii zmusiła wielu do zweryfikowania dotychczasowych romantycznych wyobrażeń przedstawiających mniejszości etniczne jako dążące do wolności ofiary rosyjskiej kolonizacji. Zaangażowanie syberyjskich grup etnicznych w wojnę na Ukrainie jest punktem wyjścia do analizy relacji między państwem, nacjonalizmem i mniejszościami etnicznymi we współczesnej Rosji. W artykule poddano analizie: (1) dyskursywne reprezentacje mniejszości syberyjskich w mediach ukraińskich i rosyjskich; (2) przyczyny i formy udziału tych mniejszości w wojnie; (3) kryzys nacjonalizmu mniejszościowego i wynikające z niego nowe formy oporu lub kolaboracji z państwem rosyjskim.
Humor w czasach zarazy (Polska 2020-2022)
Authors: Soćko-Mucha Alicja
Published: November 2023

Artykuł prezentuje humor powstały w trakcie pandemii COVID-19 w Polsce od marca 2020 roku do lutego 2022 roku. Przedstawione memy internetowe, wypowiedzi w mediach społecznościowych, dowcipy, które krążyły wśród Polaków, komiczne grafiki obecne w przestrzeniach publicznych powstały w reakcji na wydarzenia, które przyniosła pandemia. Do głównych tematów żartów czasu zarazy należały: robienie zapasów, siedzenie w domu, przebywanie na kwarantannie, nielegalne zgromadzenia, praca i szkoła zdalna, pandemiczne absurdy, objawy zakażenia koronawirusem, szczepionki. Jednocześnie istniały tematy ztabuizowane, które raczej nie podległy żartom. Humor czasu pandemii początkowo pełnił funkcję terapeutyczną i więziotwórczą, później przerodził się w sarkazm i nabrał agresywnego zabarwienia.
La hermenéutica acomodacionista de Rheticus en defensa de la nueva astronomía
Authors: Blanco Daniel
Published: November 2023

En esta contribución, exploramos un esfuerzo poco referenciado de Rheticus en favor de la recepción de la astronomía de su maestro Copérnico en el círculo religioso de su época. Éste aparece en su “Tratado acerca de la Sagrada Escritura y el movimiento de la Tierra”, documento perdido por siglos, y redescubierto por Hooykaas en 1972. Aquí, ofrecemos una elucidación de las principales ideas de Rheticus y sugerimos –a partir del estudio comparativo de un caso concreto– que se lo considere como un precursor de movidas similares posteriores, como la protagonizada por Galileo en bien conocidas y mejor estudiadas cartas.
The Human Condition Before the Fall: Man as the Object of God’s Paternal and Providential Care
Authors: Vanzini Marco
Published: November 2023

This paper examines some theological reinterpretations of the dogma on the fall and the original condition of man before sin and formulates a proposal that, in accordance with St. Thomas Aquinas’ view, sees in man’s originally holy relationship (original holiness) with God the ‘context’ for the exercise of God’s providential and paternal care for man, which would have protected him from natural evils. It is then shown that the ‘physical-bodily normality’ of the progenitors in such a relational context accords well with both the current scientific understanding of the world and the fundamental theological reasons of dogma.
Editorial
Authors: De Marchi Pereira de Souza Alice , Mattos Amana , Lúcia Tinoco Ponciano Edna , Santos Bispo Fábio , Degani-Carneiro Filipe , De Garay Hernández Jimena , Cristina de Toledo Quadros Laura , Vinicius Brunhari Marcos , Albuquerque Hayasida Nazaré , Lorena Quitério Patrícia , Valadão Bussinger Rebeca , Rodrigues de Souza Rodolfo , Lazaro Rapizo Rosana , Dal Ongaro Savegnago Sabrina , Castro Gomes Vitor
Published: November 2023

Alice De Marchi Pereira de Souza, Amana Mattos, Edna Lúcia Tinoco Ponciano, Fábio Santos Bispo, Filipe Degani-Carneiro, Jimena de Garay Hernández, Laura Cristina de Toledo Quadros, Marcos Vinicius Brunhari, Nazaré Albuquerque Hayasida, Patrícia Lorena Quitério, Rebeca Valadão Bussinger, Rodolfo Rodrigues de Souza, Rosana Lazaro Rapizo, Sabrina Dal Ongaro Savegnago, Vitor Castro Gomes
Blue micro-lasing from dye-doped hollow polymer optical fiber with an Ag nanoparticle-doped microring
Authors: B. Anugop , Simon Jessy , Madanan Kailasnath
Published: November 2023

We report the modified and improved whispering gallery mode laser emission from a hollow polymer optical fiber doped with 1,4-Bis(2-methyl styryl) benzene (Bis-MSB), a high-quantum yield dye with a blue emission, with the introduction of an Ag nanoparticle-doped microring. In the presence of the Ag-doped microring, the laser emission was enhanced, and a reduction in the laser threshold from 40 to 15 µJ was attained, along with a small redshift in the emission spectrum. The quality factor of the microring embedded hollow polymer optical fiber was found to be 1.3×103. Moreover, the introduction of an Ag-doped microring inside the hollow polymer optical fiber helps enhance certain lasing modes. The observations open the way for the development of low-threshold polymer optical fiber lasers in the blue region.
Highly sensitive temperature and refractive index sensor based on no-core fiber cascaded with a balloon-shaped bent single-mode fiber
Authors: Zhu Xiaojun , Song Mengqiang , Liu Xing , Liu Wen , Pan Yongquan , Cao Juan , Zhang Guoan , Yang Yongjie , Shi Yuechun , Wu Wuming
Published: November 2023

A highly sensitive temperature and refractive index (RI) sensor based on no-core fiber (NCF) cascaded with a balloon-shaped bent single-mode fiber (BSBSF) is proposed and demonstrated. The NCF can excite higher-order modes which will be concentrated and transmitted into the BSBSF due to the characteristic of self-imaging effect. The BSBSF has an excellent temperature performance due to the high thermo-optical coefficient and thermal expansion coefficient of the polymer coating. The NCF and BSBSF are both conducive to the excitation of higher-order modes, which induces the sensitivity of the sensor with an efficiency improvement. The experimental results show that the maximum temperature sensitivity is −3.19nm/∘C in the range of 22°C–83°C, which is the highest temperature sensitivity in the cascaded BSBSF structure to our best knowledge. In addition, the maximum RI sensitivity is 232.16 nm/RIU when the RI changes from 1.3234 to 1.3512. Compared with other cascaded BSBSF structures, this sensor has a higher temperature sensitivity and can be applicated in the prospects of food, biology, and environmental monitoring.
Radiometry and contrast-to-noise ratio for continuous-wave and laser range-gated active imaging systems
Authors: Follansbee Joshua , Burrell Derek , Furxhi Orges , Renshaw C. Kyle , Driggers Ronald G.
Published: November 2023

Resolution and sensitivity must be considered in the design of an active imaging system. System sensitivity is characterized by the signal-to-noise or contrast-to-noise ratio and is derived through radiometry. We present a tutorial for the radiometry associated with the contrast-to-noise ratio for active continuous-wave and laser range-gated imaging systems, giving a useful metric for determining reflective-band sensor performance against a target and background. A calculation of the full power and contrast-to-noise ratio terms is shown for an example case, and all relevant radiometric signal terms are covered while describing the assumptions made. Coherent effects on signal-to-noise ratio are excluded from this analysis.
Signatures of resonantly driven laser-wakefield excitation by a pulse train generated by an optical delay mask
Authors: Marasciulli A. , Labate L. , Tomassini P. , Gizzi L. A.
Published: November 2023

Electron plasma waves can be efficiently excited by a resonant train of ultrashort pulses, spatially separated by a plasma wavelength. Generating a pulse train from a single amplified ultrashort pulse may be challenging when dealing with large beams. Here we discuss a pulse splitting technique using a simple delay mask that can be adapted to large diameter petawatt beams. We show via detailed numerical simulations that unique signatures of electrons accelerated by a resonantly excited wakefield can be obtained from realistic focused double-pulse trains obtained from a single-region delay mask.
Color image guided depth image reconstruction based on a total variation network
Authors: Guo Yue , Xie Shipeng , Hu Ying , Xu Xian
Published: November 2023

A representative method to improve a depth image is to use an aligned high-quality color image to guide the depth image by migrating the color details to the depth image. In the process of color-guided depth reconstruction, there often is a misalignment of the edge of the color image used to guide the depth image reconstruction and the depth discontinuity of the depth image. This makes the results suffer from texture copy artifacts and blurring depth discontinuities. In this paper, we use a total variation deep network founded on deep learning and high-resolution color images. The experimental result indicates that under the guidance of high-resolution colors, the depth image recovered is closest to the ground truth in the edge contour, the PSNR and FSIM index are suboptimal for 64×, and the contour and position information recovered from the reconstructed depth image can be retained in the very low-resolution depth image.