bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative stress markers in brain and gonads of rabbit bucks fed herbal supplements
Authors: Jimoh Olatunji Abubakar
Published: August 2024

Background

Currently, there is an increase in the usage of phytogenic feed additives to help improve animal welfare and productivity, while less emphasis is now placed on metabolic and oxidative stability of neuronal and testicular tissues. This study aims at investigating the effects of Moringa oleifera, Phyllanthus amarus and Viscum album as feed additives on some metabolic indicators and oxidative status of rabbit testis and brain. Isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets were formulated with 5% supplementation of each of the phytogenic additive to 3 treatment groups and basal diet group.

Results

It was revealed that moringa, mistletoe, and phyllanthus can modulate oxidative status in both the brain and gonads of rabbit bucks through their unique phytochemical compositions, thereby affecting reproductive and cognitive functions. Moringa, rich in crude protein, saponins, glycosides, and steroids, enhances protein and lactate dehydrogenase levels but increases lipid peroxidation in the testis. Mistletoe, with high crude fiber, ash, and antioxidants like flavonoids and tannins, boosts total antioxidant activity in several brain regions and reduces lipid peroxidation, indicating its potential for reducing oxidative stress. Phyllanthus, having the least fiber and ash but effective antioxidant properties, notably affects the oxidative balance in both the testis and brain, with varied impacts on different tissues. The result obtained showed that total antioxidant activity of the left testis was enhanced (p < 0.05) by inclusion of the phytogenic additives, while total antioxidant activity of the right testis in bucks fed on phytogenic additives were similar (p > 0.05) to bucks on basal diet. Bucks fed on moringa and phyllanthus additives had higher (p < 0.05) testicular lipid peroxidation, lowered testicular protein and/or lactate dehydrogenase. Result also shows that lipid peroxidation of hypothalamus, cerebrum, olfactory lobe and cerebellum were lowest in bucks fed on mistletoe, phyllanthus, phyllanthus and phyllanthus, respectively. High catalase activity of optic lobe, olfactory lobe and cerebellum were observed in bucks fed on mistletoe, moringa and mistletoe, respectively, while glutathione peroxidase activity in hypothalamus, cerebrum, olfactory lobe and pineal was enhanced (p < 0.05) in bucks fed on moringa and mistletoe compared to bucks on other treatment.

Conclusion

M. oleifera, P. amarus and V. album leaves as phytogenic feed additives in rabbit diets have negative effect on the metabolic activity of the testis, enhancing antioxidant activity in the brain.
Inflammatory turmoil within: an exploration of autoinflammatory disease genetic underpinnings, clinical presentations, and therapeutic approaches
Authors: Kozu Kátia Tomie , Nascimento Renan Rodrigues Neves Ribeiro do , Aires Patrícia Pontes , Cordeiro Rafael Alves , Moura Thais Costa Lima de , Sztajnbok Flavio Roberto , Pereira Ivanio Alves , Almeida de Jesus Adriana , Perazzio Sandro Félix
Published: August 2024

Systemic autoinflammatory diseases (SAIDs) arise from dysregulated innate immune system activity, which leads to systemic inflammation. These disorders, encompassing a diverse array of genetic defects classified as inborn errors of immunity, are significant diagnostic challenges due to their genetic heterogeneity and varied clinical presentations. Although recent advances in genetic sequencing have facilitated pathogenic gene discovery, approximately 40% of SAIDs patients lack molecular diagnoses. SAIDs have distinct clinical phenotypes, and targeted therapeutic approaches are needed. This review aims to underscore the complexity and clinical significance of SAIDs, focusing on prototypical disorders grouped according to their pathophysiology as follows: (i) inflammasomopathies, characterized by excessive activation of inflammasomes, which induces notable IL-1β release; (ii) relopathies, which are monogenic disorders characterized by dysregulation within the NF-κB signaling pathway; (iii) IL-18/IL-36 signaling pathway defect-induced SAIDs, autoinflammatory conditions defined by a dysregulated balance of IL-18/IL-36 cytokine signaling, leading to uncontrolled inflammation and tissue damage, mainly in the skin; (iv) type I interferonopathies, a diverse group of disorders characterized by uncontrolled production of type I interferons (IFNs), notably interferon α, β, and ε; (v) anti-inflammatory signaling pathway impairment-induced SAIDs, a spectrum of conditions characterized by IL-10 and TGFβ anti-inflammatory pathway disruption; and (vi) miscellaneous and polygenic SAIDs. The latter group includes VEXAS syndrome, chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis/chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis, Schnitzler syndrome, and Still’s disease, among others, illustrating the heterogeneity of SAIDs and the difficulty in creating a comprehensive classification. Therapeutic strategies involving targeted agents, such as JAK inhibitors, IL-1 blockers, and TNF inhibitors, are tailored to the specific disease phenotypes.
Internal rotational patellar resection and patella alta induced patellar maltracking in total knee arthroplasty: intraoperative measurement of the patellofemoral pressure
Authors: Yasuma Sanshiro , Kato Sakurako , Usami Takuya , Hattori Yusuke , Joyo Yuji , Shiraga Hiroo , Nozaki Masahiro , Murakami Hideki , Waguri-Nagaya Yuko
Published: August 2024

Background

Anterior knee pain due to patellar maltracking following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) reduces patients’ satisfaction. This study aimed to determine the patellofemoral pressure (PFP) in patients with favorable patellar tracking (FT) and impaired patellar tracking (IT) following TKA, the factors causing patellar maltracking, and the effect of lateral retinacular release (LRR) on patients with IT.

Methods

Forty-four patients with varus knee osteoarthritis undergoing cruciate-retaining TKA were enrolled. After component implantation, patients with a separation of ≥ 2 mm of the patellar medial facet from the medial femoral trochlea throughout knee range of motion were classified into the IT group; meanwhile, the others were classified into the FT group. PFP was measured intraoperatively in three phases: (1) with the resurfaced patella (RP); (2) with the resurfaced patella and knee (RPK); and (3) when LRR was performed in IT (post-LRR). The PFPs at 0°, 90°, 120°, and 135° knee flexion were compared between FT and IT using the Mann–Whitney U test. Pairwise comparison of the PFP in IT between RPK and post-LRR was performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Correlations between PFP and pre- and postoperative radiographic parameters, such as hip–knee–ankle angle, lateral distal femoral angle, medial proximal tibial angle, anterior femoral offset, Insall–Salvati ratio (ISR), patellar tilt, and patellar resection angle (PRA), were evaluated using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients.

Results

High lateral PFP in the knee flexion position led to patellar maltracking. Patients with IT (n = 24) had higher lateral and lower medial PFP than did patients with FT (n = 20) at 90°, 120°, and 135° knee flexion in RP and RPK. LRR in IT reduced the lateral PFP in the knee flexion position. PRA and ISR were correlated with the lateral PFP at no less than 90° in RP and RPK.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that internal rotational patellar resection, which resulted in a thick medial patellar remnant and a thin lateral counterpart, and patella alta were the causative factors of high lateral PFP, which induced patellar maltracking after TKA. Surgeons should avoid internal rotational patellar resection to achieve FT and perform LRR in patients with patellar maltracking.
Unpacking the nuances: an exploratory multilevel analysis on the operationalization of integrated STEM education and student attitudinal change
Authors: Hiwatig Benny Mart R. , Roehrig Gillian H. , Rouleau Mark D.
Published: August 2024

Integrated STEM education (iSTEM) is recognized for its potential to improve students’ scientific and mathematical knowledge, as well as to nurture positive attitudes toward STEM, which are essential for motivating students to consider STEM-related careers. While prior studies have examined the relationship between specific iSTEM activities or curricula and changes in student attitudes, research is lacking on how the aspects of iSTEM are operationalized and their influence on shifts in student attitudes towards STEM, especially when considering the role of demographic factors. Addressing this gap, our study applied multilevel modeling to analyze how different iSTEM aspects and demographic variables predict changes in student attitudes. Drawing on data from two five-year NSF-funded projects, we evaluated pre- and post-attitude survey responses from 948 students. Our analysis identified two key iSTEM aspects—relating content to students’ lives and engagement in engineering design—that significantly influence positive attitude change. The results highlight the importance of curriculum relevance and hands-on, problem-solving activities in shaping student attitudes. However, the impact of these instructional strategies varies across demographic groups. The study’s insights into the differential impact of iSTEM aspects on diverse student groups provide actionable guidance for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers aiming to enhance STEM learning experiences and outcomes.
Momentousness of integration of the high-resolution computed tomography scoring systems with pulmonary artery systolic pressure measurement for inference of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis severity
Authors: Ragaee Sara Mahmoud , Shamsy Alyaa Mohamed Ali EL , Shweel Mohamed Abdel Ghany , Kasem Ahmed Hussein , Mahmoud Hassan Ali Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Background

The importance of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in the diagnosis of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP) is being recognized more and more. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is common in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the presence of PAH is linked to higher mortality rates and might explain why some people who otherwise have normal pulmonary function are displaying symptoms of deterioration. The aim of this work was to find out the potency of integration of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scoring system with pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) for ascertaining the disease severity of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and to predict the prognosis for proper management, along with incorporation of the key disparity of different HRCT scoring systems for the ILD.

Results

This prospective study included 80 patients, who came with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.989) was noted between total lung zone HRCT score and PASP, pulmonary artery size, grades of dyspnea and PCO2. Nonetheless, total lung zone HRCT score proved to have good correlation and inversely proportional to (r = − 0.71) 6MWT, PO2, SPO2, FVC and FEV1/FVC. We utilized a ROC curve to identify the optimal cutoff value in HRCT scoring systems, for detecting pulmonary hypertension associated with the IPF. The sensitivity and specificity of Warrick score cutoff value was higher compared to that of the HRCT scoring system-based grading scale. Both HRCT scoring systems attained high correlation coefficient factors with various incorporated parameters in the study.

Conclusion

We can safely say that in order to reveal the severity and prognosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a high-resolution computed tomography scoring system should be incorporated with echocardiography measurement of pulmonary artery systolic pressure —which proved to be the most potent predictive factor; especially when measured after a specific HRCT score cutoff value—followed by (FEV1/FVC), the 6MWT and the severity of dyspnea. Their integration collectively will aid in precise management and follow-up of IPF cases. Both HRCT scoring systems proved to be potent and perfect for short-term interval follow-up, yet the Warrick score was easier and faster to use and attained relatively increased sensitivity and specificity for the cutoff value of the pulmonary hypertension detection compared to the HRCT scoring system-based grading scale.
α-Amylase, α-glucosidase and aldose reductase inhibitory and molecular docking studies on Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) leaf extract
Authors: Bhosale Hemlata Janardhan , Mamdapure Shailesh Vaijeenath , Panchal Ramdas Balaji , Dhuldhaj Umesh Pravin
Published: August 2024

Background

Type II diabetes mellitus is posing a severe health threat throughout the globe due to its associated pathophysiological risks and high mortality rate. Carbohydrate catabolic enzymes, including α-amylase, α-glucosidase and aldose reductase, play an important role in the development of diabetes. The natural or synthetic inhibitors of these enzymes are crucial in reducing diabetes and its related complications. Tinosporacordifolia is a plant of great significance in Ayurveda due to its unique biological activities, including anti-diabetic properties. The present study aims to identify the active constituents of T. cordifolia leaves and evaluate the in vitro inhibitory potential of its ethanol extract constituents against α-amylase, α-glucosidase and aldose reductase activities.

Results

The ethanolic leaf extract of T. cordifolia inhibited the activities of α-amylase, α-glucosidase and aldose reductase in a dose-dependent manner. It was on par  with the standard inhibitors acarbose and quercetin. At 5 mg/ml, the noted % inhibition values of extract were 69.27 ± 0.17, 67.8 ± 0.26 and 62.55 ± 0.24, respectively, for α-amylase, α-glucosidase and aldose reductase. Using GC-MS analysis, neophytadiene, γ-sitosterol, phytol, phytyl palmitate, and phytyl acetate were identified as prominent constituents of the ethanolic extract. Based on molecular docking and ADME analysis, γ-sitosterol was found as the major reactive phytoconstituent, which showed the highest inhibitory potential against α-amylase, α-glucosidase and aldose reductase activities.

Conclusions

The present study identified γ-sitosterol as triplet inhibitor of α-amylase, α-glucosidase and aldose reductase and affirmed the ethno-medicinal significance of T. cordifolia leaves in the development of new anti-diabetic leads.
Combined Transcriptome and Circulating Tumor DNA Longitudinal Biomarker Analysis Associates With Clinical Outcomes in Advanced Solid Tumors Treated With Pembrolizumab
Authors: Hernando-Calvo Alberto , Yang S.Y. Cindy , Vila-Casadesús Maria , Han Ming , Liu Zhihui Amy , Berman A Hal K. , Spreafico Anna , Razak Albiruni Abdul , Lheureux Stephanie , Hansen Aaron R. , Lo Giacco Deborah , Abbas-Aghababazadeh Farnoosh , Matito Judith , Haibe-Kains Benjamin , Pugh Trevor J. , Bratman Scott V. , Aleshin Alexey , Berche Roger , Saavedra Omar , Garralda Elena , Elston Sawako , Siu Lillian L. , Ohashi Pamela S. , Vivancos Ana , Bedard Philippe L.
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Immune gene expression signatures are emerging as potential biomarkers for immunotherapy (IO). VIGex is a 12-gene expression classifier developed in both nCounter (Nanostring) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) assays and analytically validated across laboratories. VIGex classifies tumor samples into hot, intermediate-cold (I-Cold), and cold subgroups. VIGex-Hot has been associated with better IO treatment outcomes. Here, we investigated the performance of VIGex and other IO biomarkers in an independent data set of patients treated with pembrolizumab in the INSPIRE phase II clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02644369 ).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with advanced solid tumors were treated with pembrolizumab 200 mg IV once every 3 weeks. Tumor RNA-seq data from baseline tumor samples were classified by the VIGex algorithm. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) was measured at baseline and start of cycle 3 using the bespoke Signatera assay. VIGex-Hot was compared with VIGex I-Cold + Cold and four groups were defined on the basis of the combination of VIGex subgroups and the change in ctDNA at cycle 3 from baseline (ΔctDNA).

RESULTS

Seventy-six patients were enrolled, including 16 ovarian, 12 breast, 12 head and neck cancers, 10 melanoma, and 26 other tumor types. Objective response rate was 24% in VIGex-Hot and 10% in I-Cold/Cold. VIGex-Hot subgroup was associated with higher overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) when included in a multivariable model adjusted for tumor type, tumor mutation burden, and PD-L1 immunohistochemistry. The addition of ΔctDNA improved the predictive performance of the baseline VIGex classification for both OS and PFS.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that the addition of ΔctDNA to baseline VIGex may refine prediction for IO.
Literacy among American Indians: Levels and Trends from 1900 to 1930 and across Birth Cohorts from 1830 to 1920
Authors: Thornton Arland , Young-DeMarco Linda
Published: August 2024

This article investigates American Indian literacy in the United States. Using 1900 through 1930 decennial census data, literacy levels and trends in reading and writing are documented for this period and for people born from 1820 through 1920, providing a large-scale historical picture of American Indian literacy. The pace and extent of literacy is documented from very low for those born during the early 1800s to fairly universal for those born during the early 1900s. Increases in Native literacy are demonstrated to have been closely related to birth year, with successive birth years having higher levels of literacy. Little evidence was found that increases from 1900 to 1930 happened because people increased their literacy after the school years and as they matured through adulthood. A close birth year level relationship between literacy and one year of school attainment was also found.
The Last Days of the Mosquito Reservation: The Mosquito Indian Diplomatic Mission to Restore the Mosquito Reservation, 1894–1907
Authors: Baracco Luciano
Published: August 2024

Geopolitical changes taking place in late nineteenth-century Central America laid the pathway for Nicaragua’s long-desired incorporation of the autonomous Mosquito Reservation, which was located on its Caribbean Coast. This article brings to light the diplomatic mission undertaken by Mosquito Indians to restore their reservation using rarely accessed British Foreign Office documents. These sources detail the extensive efforts by the last hereditary chief, Robert Henry Clarence, and a small number of Mosquito delegates living in exile in Jamaica, to persuade Great Britain to restore the autonomy granted to them under the Treaty of Managua (1860). Mosquito appeals for British support drew on notions of shared Anglo culture owing to their long historical association with the British and their conversion to Protestant Christianity from the 1840s. The discussion of Mosquito diplomatic correspondence reveals that they possessed a much more sophisticated understanding of notions of nationhood and international law than is commonly acknowledged. The Mosquitos’ association with the British, which had indeed been empowering during the early nineteenth century, proved to be entirely disempowering as the century drew to a close. The establishment of US hegemony over the isthmus had radically transformed Central America’s diplomatic landscape and had undermined Britain’s ability to intervene on behalf of the Mosquito.
da_Tracker: Automated workflow for high throughput single cell and single phagosome tracking in infected cells
Authors: Augenstreich Jacques , Poddar Anushka , Belew Ashton T. , El-Sayed Najib M. , Briken Volker
Published: August 2024

Time-lapse microscopy has emerged as a crucial tool in cell biology, facilitating a deeper understanding of dynamic cellular processes. While existing tracking tools have proven effective in detecting and monitoring objects over time, the quantification of signals within these tracked objects often faces implementation constraints. In the context of infectious diseases, the quantification of signals at localized compartments within the cell and around intracellular pathogens can provide even deeper insight into the interactions between the pathogen and host cell organelles. Existing quantitative analysis at a single-phagosome level remains limited and dependent on manual tracking methods. We developed a near-fully automated workflow that performs with limited bias, high-throughput cell segmentation and quantitative tracking of both single cell and single bacterium/phagosome within multi-channel, z-stack, time-lapse confocal microscopy videos. We took advantage of the PyImageJ library to bring Fiji functionality into a Python environment and combined deep-learning-based segmentation from Cellpose with tracking algorithms from Trackmate. The ‘da_tracker’ workflow provides a versatile toolkit of functions for measuring relevant signal parameters at the single-cell level (such as velocity or bacterial burden) and at the single-phagosome level (i.e. assessment of phagosome maturation over time). Its capabilities in both single-cell and single-phagosome quantification, its flexibility and open-source nature should assist studies that aim to decipher for example the pathogenicity of bacteria and the mechanism of virulence factors that could pave the way for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches.
Negative perceptions toward older adults and life satisfaction among community-dwelling older citizens in Japan
Authors: Shimizu Yuho , Sato Kenichiro , Ogawa Susumu , Cho Daisuke , Takahashi Yoshifumi , Yamashiro Daichi , Li Yan , Takahashi Tomoya , Hinakura Keigo , Iizuka Ai , Furuya Tomoki , Suzuki Hiroyuki
Published: August 2024

Background With the rapid aging of the population, increasing life satisfaction among older adults is essential. Negative perceptions of older adults are internalized, leading to poor mental health. This study hypothesized that participants with more negative perceptions of older adults would have lower life satisfaction. Methods A cross-sectional survey of older adults was conducted across five wards and four cities in Tokyo, Japan. Participants responded to questions regarding demographics, life satisfaction, and negative perceptions of older adults. Data from 285 participants (264 women, M = 71.97 years) were analyzed. Results The intraclass correlation coefficient for life satisfaction concerning residential areas was. 03 (95% confidence interval [CI] = [-.03, .10]). Instead of multilevel models, a multiple regression model with life satisfaction as the dependent variable and negative perceptions of older adults and demographics as the independent variables yielded the best fit. Results indicated that participants with more negative perceptions of older adults reported lower life satisfaction (β = -.16, 95% CI = [-.28, -.04], p = .008), supporting our hypothesis. Conclusions This study was constrained by limited variance in residential areas and a predominantly female participant pool. Previous studies have shown that higher life satisfaction is associated with increased social participation and extended life expectancy, and interventions aimed at enhancing life satisfaction in older adults are significant. Further exploration is warranted to ascertain whether a causal relationship exists, wherein more negative perceptions of older adults diminish life satisfaction.
Statins as Neuroinflammatory Therapy, Bibliometric Study
Authors: SALEH ARMAN YURISALDI , Susanto Tirta Darmawan , Valentina Riezky , Saputra Dwi Arwandi Yogi
Published: August 2024

Introduction Neuroinflammase, a key mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer and Parkinson, is influenced by statin, a lipid-binding protein. Studies show that statin can mitigate the likelihood of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and can also reduce leukocytosis and T-regulatory function. Nevertheless, there is restricted literature on the use of statin in neuroinflammation. The objective of this investigation is to conduct a bibliometric analysis of statin use in neuroinflammation, providing valuable insights into research development and future research questions. Methods In this work, a literature review methodology is employed to gather data from the Scopus database using the keywords neuroinflammation and statins. Data were analyzed using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer software to produce visualizations and bibliometric maps. We conducted quantitative and qualitative analysis. Results The research trend found are Documents by Year, Most Global Cited Document, Most Relevant Sources, Factorial Map Of The Documents With The Highest Contributes, Documents by Author, Most Relevant Affiliations, Documents by Subject Area, Trend Topic, Network Visualization, Overlay visualization of scopus, database using Vosviewer, Density Visualization, Thematic Map, Thematic Evolution, Cluster Analysis, Qualitative Analysis, and Word Cloud. Conclusions The study highlights the potential for further research on statins and neuroinflammation, aiming to better understand their role in treating neuroinflammation and enhance the quality of life for patients with neuroinflammatory conditions.
What can we experience and report on a rapidly presented image? Intersubjective measures of specificity of freely reported contents of consciousness
Authors: Chuyin Zhang , Koh Zhao Hui , Gallagher Regan , Nishimoto Shinji , Tsuchiya Naotsugu
Published: August 2024

Background: A majority of previous studies appear to support a view that human observers can only perceive coarse information from a natural scene image when it is presented rapidly (<100ms, masked). In these studies, participants were often forced to choose an answer from options that experimenters preselected. These options can underestimate what participants experience and can report on it. The current study aims to introduce a novel methodology to investigate how detailed information participants can report after briefly seeing a natural scene image. Methods: We used a novel free-report paradigm to examine what people can freely report following a rapidly presented natural scene image (67/133/267ms, masked). N = 670 online participants typed up to five words to report what they saw in the image together with confidence of the respective responses. We developed a novel index, Intersubjective Agreement (IA). IA quantifies how specifically the response words were used to describe the target image, with a high value meaning the word is not often reported for other images. Importantly, IA eliminates the need for experimenters to preselect response options. Results: The words with high IA values are often something detailed (e.g., a small object) in a particular image. With IA, unlike commonly believed, we demonstrated that participants reported highly specific and detailed aspects of the briefly (even at 67ms, masked) shown image. Further, IA is positively correlated with confidence, indicating metacognitive conscious access to the reported aspects of the image. Conclusion: These new findings challenge the dominant view that the content of rapid scene experience is limited to global and coarse gist. Our novel paradigm opens a door to investigate various contents of consciousness with a free-report paradigm.
Academic Dialogue Against the Background of War
Authors: Viatkina Nataliia
Published: August 2024

This essay considers calls to boycott working with the Russian academy after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Against the view that such a boycott would prevent Western academics from working with their Russian colleagues to counter Kremlin propaganda and to co-produced Western-Russian research that may benefit everyone, I argue that the Russian censorship and policing of the academy combined with Russian ideology means that there are currently no conversation partners for Western academics within the Russian academy.
Effectiveness of kiwi fruit in treating constipation - narrative review
Authors: Bednarczyk Paulina , Malaka Ewa Katarzyna , Maślankiewicz Maria , Nowoświat Patrycja , Bado Michał , Goncerz Michał , Bilecki Krzysztof , Duda Weronika , Muzyk Magdalena , Pilawska Sandra Agnieszka
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Constipation is a widespread digestive issue characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficulty in passing stools. While conventional treatments include dietary fiber, laxatives, and lifestyle changes, recent studies have suggested that kiwifruit may offer a natural and effective alternative. This narrative review evaluates the efficacy of kiwifruit in managing and alleviating symptoms of constipation.
Aim of the study: The primary aim of this study is to synthesize existing research on the effectiveness of kiwifruit in treating constipation. By examining various clinical trials and observational studies, the review aims to elucidate the therapeutic benefits and mechanisms of action of kiwifruit in improving bowel function.
Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar.  Data were extracted and analyzed regarding the frequency of bowel movements, stool consistency, and overall gastrointestinal health following kiwifruit consumption.
Results: The review identified that regular consumption of kiwifruit significantly enhances bowel function in both constipated and non-constipated individuals. Clinical trials consistently report increased stool frequency, softer stool consistency, and reduced colonic transit time. The beneficial effects are attributed to the high fiber content of kiwifruit and the presence of the enzyme actinidin, which promotes digestion and bowel movements. Kiwifruit was found to be well-tolerated with minimal adverse effects.
Conclusion:Kiwifruit appears to be a promising natural remedy for constipation, providing substantial improvements in bowel movement regularity and stool characteristics. Its high fiber content and unique enzymatic properties contribute to its effectiveness. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term benefits and potential applications of different varieties of kiwifruit in diverse patient populations.
Selected autoimmune diseases as co-morbidities with hidradenitis suppurativa - narrative rewiew
Authors: Bednarczyk Paulina , Chruścicki Damian , Pelc Marcin , Sitarek Gracjan , Żerek Marta , Płonka Wojciech
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition marked by painful nodules and abscesses. It frequently coexists with autoimmune diseases, complicating management. Autoimmune conditions such as thyroid disorders, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and psoriasis are common in HS patients, necessitating a comprehensive care approach.
Aim of the Study: This review evaluates the prevalence and impact of autoimmune diseases—autoimmune thyroid disorders, IBS, SLE, and psoriasis—on individuals with HS.
Materials and Methods: A literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from 2018 to 2024 identified studies relevant to HS co-morbidities based on quality and relevance.
Results: HS shows significant links with autoimmune thyroid disorders, IBS, SLE, and psoriasis. HS patients often have higher rates of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, IBS, and SLE compared to the general population, suggesting shared inflammatory mechanisms.
Conclusion: Recognizing co-morbid autoimmune diseases is vital for effective HS management. These associations emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach and further research to enhance understanding and treatment strategies.
Deepest Cuts for Benders Decomposition
Authors: Hosseini Mojtaba , Turner John
Published: August 2024

In the global economy, billions of dollars of merchandise are routed using software that, at its core, uses optimization technology. Over many decades, researchers have devised different approaches to make algorithms faster, and this is true for Benders decomposition as well. Benders speeds up finding an optimal solution to a problem with millions of variables and constraints by iteratively learning which constraints are important and considering only these constraints. Our idea is that selectively choosing the constraints that eliminate the largest number of irrelevant solutions at each step would lead to finding the optimal solution in the fewest number of Benders steps. Geometrically, this amounts to choosing so-called deep cuts. Of course, in attempting to minimize the number of steps, we do need to spend more time taking each individual step, but our experimental results on several types of problems arising in supply chain analytics show that this approach makes sense and significantly reduces the solution time.
Natural learning
Authors: Kassim Safiya , Rowberry Megan , Holmes Connor
Published: August 2024

The following article is a combination of three Level 5 student assignments on the Forest School module led by Philippa Thompson, principal lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University and Co-Chair of the ECSDN. The students selected the module and are a mixture of Early Childhood and Childhood Degree students. The focus of the module is to critique current approaches to Forest School in the UK in comparison to international models; understand and critique the idea of outdoor learning and focus on biodiversity, sustainability and becoming climate literate. The module is taught outdoors in collaboration with senior outdoor learning officer Chris Smith (Founder of Well and Wild), providing students with an employer perspective alongside the experiential and academic learning.
Lateral Abdominal Muscles Thickness in Sitting and Standing Positions During Abdominal Drawing-In Maneuver and Abdominal Bracing Among Chronic Low Back Pain Individuals
Authors:   Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 Thailand, Mohammed Aisha Tukur ,   Department of Physiotherapy, University of Maiduguri, Borno state, P.M.B 1069, Nigeria, Sitilertpisan Patraporn ,   Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 Thailand, Sriburee Sompong ,   Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, Yang Chich-Haung Richard ,   Department of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Taiwan 97004,   Department of Biomedical Sciences & Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Tzu Chi University, Taiwan 97004,   Institute of Medicine Science, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Taiwan 97004, Paungmali Aatit ,   Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200 Thailand
Published: August 2024

Low back pain (LBP) is a general problem that influences most working populations throughout their lifetime. Spinal stabilization exercises, such as abdominal drawing maneuver (ADIM) and abdominal bracing (AB) are potential for the management of low back pain, especially in functional positions such as sitting and standing. This study aimed to determine the effects of testing positions (sitting, standing) and types of exercises (ADIM, AB) on muscle thickness of the lateral abdominal muscles among chronic LBP individuals. Twenty-four adults (12 males, 12 females) with chronic non-specific low back pain were assessed in sitting and standing positions while performing ADIM and AB exercises. Ultrasound imaging was used to quantify the thickness of the lateral abdominal muscles during the exercises. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the muscle thickness of Transversus Abdominis (TrA), Internal Oblique (IO), and External Oblique (EO) at rest, ADIM, and AB. The results showed that during ADIM, the thickness of the TrA and IO muscles increased compared to rest (P <0.05). Furthermore, TrA was thicker during ADIM than during AB exercise at both positions (P <0.05). The thickness of IO increased during AB compared to rest in both positions, but the EO muscle thickness significantly greater during ADIM compared to rest and AB in the standing position (P <0.05). In conclusion, ADIM stimulates the TrA and IO muscles, whereas AB stimulates IO in individuals with LBP. Therefore, ADIM can initially be included in exercise regimes to improve spinal stability in individuals with chronic non-specific LBP.
Preface and acknowledgments
Authors: Wicks Yasmina
Published: August 2024

List of Tables, List of Figures, List of Plates, List of Plans, Abbreviations and definitions,Trench abbreviations for catalogue numbers., Text abbreviations and sigla used in catalogue, Abbreviations for textual sources following CDLI, Definitions, Acknowledgements
‘The voice of the child? The child has no voice’: an Irish study exploring the voice of young children in decisions regarding contact
Authors: Parkes Aisling , McCaughren Simone , Holt Stephanie
Published: August 2024

Since January 2016, Irish family law courts have been obliged to take into consideration the voices of children in proceedings where decisions regarding contact with parents are being made. This article examines the findings of an Irish study that shed light on how young children’s voices are heard in decisions regarding contact with parents who do not, or no longer, live together. The views of key stakeholders who have some involvement with contact arrangements for young children in the 0–6 years age category are highlighted. A thematic analysis of the data was conducted in order to understand various perspectives on how and under what circumstances young children are heard in contact cases. The findings demonstrate that the voices of young children are virtually absent in family law decisions regarding contact. Determining factors relate to the infrastructure of the courts, a significant lack of resources to support the Irish family law system and significant variation in practice approaches between social and legal professionals. As a result of these findings, suggestions are proposed for informing practice and improving service delivery in family law in a way that best meets the needs and rights of young children.
Decision-tree-based non-resonant background removal for enhancing chemical-selective contrast in hyperspectral CARS microscopy
Authors: Shafe-Purcell John , Slepkov Aaron
Published: August 2024

Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) is a nonlinear optical process used for spectroscopy and chemical imaging. CARS signals can be orders of magnitude stronger than those of its incoherent counterpart, spontaneous Raman scattering, thus enabling substantially faster acquisition speeds. This attribute has positioned CARS as a desirable alternative to spontaneous Raman scattering as a contrast mechanism for label-free hyperspectral chemical imaging due to its traditionally long acquisition times. The presence of a non-resonant background (NRB) that distorts the shapes and intensities of resonant peaks and introduces spurious signal to non-resonant spectral regions, however, complicates spectral analysis and degrades chemical-selective image contrast. The NRB has and continues to hinder the widespread adoption of CARS despite its clear advantages. NRB removal techniques that retrieve Raman-like signals from CARS spectra have long been a central focus of CARS research, with "deep" machine learning approaches being most recently explored. Here, we present an original "shallow" machine learning approach to NRB removal based on gradient-boosted decision trees obtained using the open-source gradient-boosting framework XGBoost. We find that the tree-based model accurately retrieves Raman-like spectra, both in simulated and experimental CARS spectra. When applied to experimental hyperspectral CARS microscopy, the tree-based model significantly improves chemical-selective contrast, thereby facilitating the spatiospectral analysis of samples within the region of interest. This work establishes tree-based gradient boosting as an effective and viable tool for NRB removal for enhancing chemical-selective contrast in hyperspectral CARS microscopy.
Decision-tree-based non-resonant background removal for enhancing chemical-selective contrast in hyperspectral CARS microscopy
Authors: Slepkov Aaron , Shafe-Purcell John
Published: August 2024

Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) is a nonlinear optical process used for spectroscopy and chemical imaging. CARS signals can be orders of magnitude stronger than those of its incoherent counterpart, spontaneous Raman scattering, thus enabling substantially faster acquisition speeds. This attribute has positioned CARS as a desirable alternative to spontaneous Raman scattering as a contrast mechanism for label-free hyperspectral chemical imaging due to its traditionally long acquisition times. The presence of a non-resonant background (NRB) that distorts the shapes and intensities of resonant peaks and introduces spurious signal to non-resonant spectral regions, however, complicates spectral analysis and degrades chemical-selective image contrast. The NRB has and continues to hinder the widespread adoption of CARS despite its clear advantages. NRB removal techniques that retrieve Raman-like signals from CARS spectra have long been a central focus of CARS research, with "deep" machine learning approaches being most recently explored. Here, we present an original "shallow" machine learning approach to NRB removal based on gradient-boosted decision trees obtained using the open-source gradient-boosting framework XGBoost. We find that the tree-based model accurately retrieves Raman-like spectra, both in simulated and experimental CARS spectra. When applied to experimental hyperspectral CARS microscopy, the tree-based model significantly improves chemical-selective contrast, thereby facilitating the spatiospectral analysis of samples within the region of interest. This work establishes tree-based gradient boosting as an effective and viable tool for NRB removal for enhancing chemical-selective contrast in hyperspectral CARS microscopy.
Comparative time-series multi-omics analyses suggest H1.2 involvement in anoxic adaptation and cancer resistance
Authors: Du Juan , Liu Weiqiang , Li Meng , Li Zihao , Li Xuanjing , Dai Yichen , Liu Gaoming , Wang Xiao , Zhu Pingfen , Gladyshev Vadim N. , Zhou Xuming
Published: August 2024

The naked mole rat (NMR), Heterocephalus glaber, is known as the longest-lived rodent and is extraordinarily resistant to hypoxia and cancer. Here, both NMR embryonic fibroblasts (NEFs) and their mouse counterparts (MEFs) were subjected to anoxic conditions (0% O2, 5% CO2). A combination of comparative transcriptomics and proteomics was then employed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Notably, we observed distinct levels of histone H1.2 (encoded by HIST1H1C) accumulation between NEFs and MEFs. Subsequent mechanistic analyses showed that higher H1.2 expression in NEFs was associated with the lower expression of its inhibitor, PARP1. Additionally, we discovered that H1.2 can directly interact with HIF-1α PAS domains, thereby promoting the expression of HIF-1α through facilitating the dimerization with HIF-1β. The overexpression of H1.2 was also found to trigger autophagy and to suppress the migration of cancer cells, as well as the formation of xenograft tumors, via the NRF2/P62 signaling pathway. Moreover, an engineered H1.2 knock-in mouse model exhibited significantly extended survival in hypoxic conditions (4% O2) and showed a reduced rate of tumor formation. Collectively, our results indicate a potential mechanistic link between H1.2 and the dual phenomena of anoxic adaptation and cancer resistance.
Individual, family, school and neighborhood predictors related to different levels of physical activity in adolescents: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Caetano Isabella Toledo , dos Santos Fernanda Karina , Andaki Alynne Christian Ribeiro , Gomes Thayse Natacha Q. F. , Amorim Paulo Roberto dos Santos
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the association among individual, family, school environment and neighborhood predictors with the different levels of physical activity (PA) [light (LPA) and moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA)] in Brazilian adolescents. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 309 adolescents with a mean age of 15.37 (± 0.57) years. PA and sleep time were assessed by accelerometry. Individual predictors were determined by anthropometry and questionnaires, while family, school environment and neighborhood predictors were assessed using questionnaires. Robust Regression analysis was performed considering a significance level of 5%. Individual and environmental variables were able to respectively predict 64% and 13.6% of adolescents’ participation in LPA. Work (βp = 0.2322), gender (βp = −0.1318), commuting to school (βp = −0.1501), sleep (βp = −0.1260) and paved roads (βp = −0.1360) were associated with LPA. It was also observed that individual (59.4%) and environmental (27.4%) variables were able to predict adolescents’ participation in MVPA. Work (βp = 0.1656), commuting to school (βp = 0.1242) and crime (βp = 0.1376, and gender (βp = −0.3041) and paved roads (βp = −0.1357 were associated with MVPA. Such results indicated that boys, those who work and those who live in unpaved neighborhoods presented greater time in LPA and MVPA; those who live in neighborhoods with higher crime had higher time spent in MVPA; and those who passively commute to school had more time in LPA. There was an average reduction of 5.0 minutes in LPA time for each additional hour of sleep. Finally, students who actively commute to school had more time in MVPA. Individual factors and those related to the neighborhood environment can play an important role in understanding the variables which can influence the different levels of PA in adolescents.
Cost-effectiveness of empagliflozin in the treatment of Malaysian patients with chronic heart failure and preserved or mildly reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Tan Yi Jing , Linden Stephan , Ong Siew Chin
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Empagliflozin demonstrates promising clinical benefits in patients with heart failure (HF). While an early study demonstrates that empagliflozin is cost-effective for treating HF patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in Malaysia, its cost-effectiveness for HF with ejection fraction (EF)>40% remains unclear. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of adding empagliflozin to the standard of care (SoC) for HF patients with EF>40% from the perspective of Malaysian healthcare system. Subsequently, the results were consolidated with the findings for HFrEF to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of empagliflozin when used for all HF patients in Malaysia, irrespective of EF.

Methods

A cost-utility analysis was performed using a validated Markov model, which modelled a cohort of adult patients through health states related to symptom severity and functional impairment, to estimate costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). The influence of model inputs and assumptions, sensitivity, scenario, and subgroup analyses were explored. All costs were expressed in 2022 Malaysian ringgits (RM). Costs and QALYs were discounted at an annual rate of 3.0% as per local pharmacoeconomic guideline.

Results

The base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for HF patients with EF>40% was RM 40,454 per QALY gained. At a cost-effectiveness threshold of RM 47,439/QALY gained, empagliflozin was cost-effective in 57% of replications. The model outcomes were sensitive to inputs related to the treatment effect of empagliflozin in reducing HF-related hospitalisation and cardiovascular mortality, and empagliflozin cost. For the overall HF population, the ICER was RM 29,463/QALY gained.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that empagliflozin is a cost-effective treatment option for the Malaysian HF population, including those with EF>40%. As such, the intervention warrants consideration by the Malaysian healthcare provider to mitigate the burden of HF and address the unmet needs of the EF>40% population.