bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EYA-1 is required for genomic integrity independent of H2AX signalling in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Tatnell Hannah , Novakovic Stevan , Boag Peter , Davis Gregory
Published: May 2024

Resolving genomic insults is essential for the survival of any species. In the case of eukaryotes, several pathways comprise the DNA damage repair network, and many components have high evolutionary conservation. These pathways ensure that single and double stranded DNA breaks are resolved which prevents potential disease associated mutations from occurring in a de novo manner. In this study, we investigated the role of the Eyes Absent (EYA) homologue in Caenorhabditis elegans and its role in dsDNA break repair. Current understanding of mammalian EYA associated dsDNA break repair is that EYA1 is recruited in response to H2AX signalling. C. elegans do not possess a H2AX homologue, although they do possess homologues of the core DNA damage repair proteins. Due to this, we aimed to determine if eya-1 contributed to dsDNA break repair independent of H2AX. At a protein level, the active site of C. elegans EYA-1 is conserved in humans and homology modelling shows structural similarity to human EYA1. Absence of eya-1 results in abnormal chromosome morphology in anaphase embryos, including chromosomal bridges, missegregated chromosomes, and embryos with abnormal nuclei. eya-1 mutants are highly sensitive to induction of dsDNA breaks yet show little change to ssDNA break inducement. Additionally, eya-1 mutants display a mortal germline phenotype suggesting a generational inheritance of accumulative mutations. Collectively, this study suggests that the EYA family of proteins may have a greater involvement in maintaining genomic integrity than previously thought and unveils novel roles of EYA associated DNA damage repair.
Comparison of SS-EPI DWI and one-minute TGSE-BLADE DWI for diagnosis of acute infarction
Authors: Okuchi Sachi , Fushimi Yasutaka , Sakata Akihiko , Otani Sayo , Nakajima Satoshi , Maki Takakuni , Tanji Masahiro , Sano Noritaka , Ikeda Satoshi , Ito Shuichi , Urushibata Yuta , Zhou Kun , Arakawa Yoshiki , Nakamoto Yuji
Published: May 2024

The efficacy of 2D turbo gradient- and spin-echo diffusion-weighted imaging with non-Cartesian BLADE trajectory (TGSE-BLADE DWI) has not been well studied for acute stroke due to its long acquisition time.This study was performed to compare distortion, artifacts and image quality between single-shot echo planar imaging (SS-EPI) DWI and TGSE-BLADE DWI with acquisition time reduced to 1 minute by simultaneous multi-slice (SMS) imaging, and to evaluate the diagnostic performance of TGSE-BLADE DWI for acute infarctions. Total 104 patients with a past history of stroke or symptoms suspicious for acute infarction or who had undergone surgery for brain tumor within two days were prospectively enrolled. Ten lesions in 9 patients were diagnosed as acute or subacute infarction and were detectable only in TGSE-BLADE DWI but not in SS-EPI DWI. Scores for geometric distortion, susceptibility artifacts, overall image quality, lesion conspicuity and diagnostic confidence were lower for SS-EPI DWI than TGSE-BLADE DWI (p≤.001). Distortion was significantly worse in SS-EPI DWI than TGSE-BLADE DWI (p<.001). SNR of centrum semiovale was significantly higher in SS-EPI DWI than TGSE-BLADE DWI (p<0.001). One-minute TGSE-BLADE DWI showed better image quality than SS-EPI DWI in terms of distortion and artifacts, and higher diagnostic performance for acute infarctions.
“They expect you to give teeth like God, which is very hard”: Dental Clinicians’ and Technologists’ Experiences and Perspectives on Removable Complete Denture Fabrication Services in Makerere University Dental Hospital, Uganda.
Authors: Nono David , Akugizibwe Mathias , Bagenda Godfrey , Okullo Isaac , Rwenyonyi Charles Mugisha
Published: May 2024

Background: Globally, there is growing concern regarding mouth sores, occlusion, cost, ridge resorption, and retention, in the delivery of removable complete dentures (RCDs) fabrication services brought about by the aging of the population and poor oral healthcare. However, there is limited literature about the experiences of dental clinicians and technologists in handling removable complete denture fabrication. The available literature mainly focuses on the process of removable complete denture fabrication in general with less emphasis on the experiences of technologists and clinicians in removable complete denture fabrication. This study aimed to explore dental clinicians’ and technologists’ experiences and perspectives on removable complete denture fabrication.
Methods:The study employed a qualitative design, 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with dental clinicians and technologists in Makerere University Dental Hospital. Both practicing dental technologists and clinicians were purposively selected after providing written informed consent. Interviews’ audios were transcribed verbatim, coded in Nvivo 14 and data were analyzed thematically.
Results: Findings revealed that dental practitioners mainly referred to or followed international guidelines during removable complete denture fabrication. Clinical and socio-demographic assessments like age, oral hygiene, ridge level, underlying health conditions, and mental stability of the patient were done by dental clinicians before removable complete denture fabrication. Dental technologists and clinicians mentioned patients having a lot of expectations like looking the way they used to be before losing their teeth and hoping to get their natural teeth back, being able to eat well/everything, improving physical appearance, and having permanent teeth. However, the patients also had fears and concerns about discomfort, and some worried that they would be given teeth for the dead whites or swallowing the dentures while asleep, eating, or kissing.
Conclusion: The study revealed knowledge gaps about removable complete denture fabrication and a lack of local contextualized guidelines in low and middle-income countries due to reliance on international guidelines.
Hemoglobin status in children attending paediatric clinics in Lomé, 2022.
Authors: Konu Yao Rodion , Lack Fiali Ayawa , Adama Oumarou I.Wone , Kouanfack Harold Régis , Gounon Kokou Herbert , Sogbo François , Womey Kodzovi Mawulé Corcellar , Takassi Elom Ounoo , Kolou Maléwé , Ekouevi Didier Koumavi
Published: May 2024

Aim: to estimate the prevalence of sickle cell disease among children and adolescents in the pediatric department of the Sylvanus Olympio University Hospital in 2022.
Methods: in this cross-sectional study, all children and adolescents attending the study site were proposed to participate and included if: i) aged between 18 months and 19 years, ii) present in pediatric consultations or hospitalizations and iii) provided assent or parental informed consent. A 4-5 ml blood sample was collected for hemoglobin electrophoresis on a cellulose acetate plate at alkaline pH. Sickle cell disease was defined as having either SS, SC, SF or Sß hemoglobin phenotype.
Results: A total of 317 children and adolescents aged 8 years (IQR: 4-12) in median were enrolled. Only in 7.3% of cases did both parents know their hemoglobin status. 68 children/adolescents had hemoglobin S (21.5%), 19 had sickle cell disease (6.0%). Approximately 15.6% of children and adolescents had sickle cell trait AS.
Conclusion: This study revealed a high SCD prevalence in an a priori naïve children/adolescents’ population. We stress that policy makers should consider continued sensitization, genetic counseling and neonatal screening as prevention strategies in Togo.
Feasibility and effects of the Mimba Yangu (My Pregnancy) project in improving routine prenatal ultrasound by nurses-midwives in rural Kenya: A before-after study
Authors: Nyaga Lucy , Hanson Claudia , Leekha Nidhi , Mantel Michaela , Kedenge Sarah , Gitonga Caroline W. , Naanyu Violet , Shah Jasmit , Temmerman Marleen
Published: May 2024

Introduction
Point-of-care ultrasound delivered by nurses and midwives has the potential to improve the quality of antenatal care. The 2016 World Health Organizations Antenatal Care Guidelines recommend one ultrasound below 24 weeks of gestational age for every pregnant woman, however programming is facing difficulties. Here we report on the feasibility, effects and acceptability of the Mimba Yangu implementation research project in Kenya using point-of-care ultrasound supported by digital training and supervision.
Methods
We conducted a quasi-experimental trial including 28 primary care facilities in Kilifi County, Kenya between April 2021 and March 2022. Fourteen facilities received the ultrasound intervention composed of i) a task-shifting approach where ultrasound was delivered by nurses-midwives using portable ultrasound devices (LumifyTM) connected to a tablet and ii) a unique digital platform to facilitate distant support. Hybrid training of 32 nurse-midwives was provided based on a nationally derived and agreed curriculum including theoretical and hands-on components by an academic team of obstetricians and radiologists.
Data collection used i) exit interviews with pregnant women and those who had delivered within the last six months, and ii) data abstraction from the health facility records and Kenyan health management information system, and iii) in-depth interviews with nurse-midwives and health care managers. We descriptively analyzed data and used a difference-in-difference analysis based on a generalized linear model to assess the effect of the intervention on the number of antenatal visits.
Results
The intervention was successfully and consistently implemented during a nine-month period in all 14 health facilities with 2,799 pregnant women. Interviews with trained nurse-midwives indicated that the intervention was relevant, acceptable, and feasible. In intervention facilities, 50.4% of women received at least one ultrasound compared to 19.2% in the comparison facilities, where women were referred to other facilities for their ultrasound. Furthermore, our analysis suggested a non-significant change of 10.5% in ANC 4+ visits in the intervention compared to comparison facilities.
Conclusion
Our analysis provides evidence of the feasibility, acceptance and relevance of providing ultrasound at primary care level delivered by nurse-midwives. Scaling-up will demand policy reforms to allow task-sharing at national and sub-national levels and embedding the approach in basic nursing/midwifery education.
Automatic magnetic resonance imaging series labelling for large repositories
Authors: Maya Armando Gomis , Alberich Leonor Cerda , Canuto Diana Veiga , Faggioni Lorenzo , Ten Amadeo , Ribas Gloria , Mallol Pedro , Vila-Frances Joan , Martí-Bonmatí Luis
Published: May 2024

Large medical image repositories present challenges related to unstructured data. A data enrichment process allows the storage of additional information for fast identification of the content and properties of medical imaging studies. The aim of this study is to develop a metadata enrichment pipeline to facilitate the secondary use of medical images in a high-throughput environment. Our aim was to develop a categorization tool for the MR series to generate standardized tags that identify relevant image characteristics such as patient orientation, sequence type, weighting type, or the presence of fat suppression.
Three models that make use of machine learning (ML) and DICOM tags are proposed. The dataset for their development consists of 4,666 MR series from cancer patients, labeled by expert radiologists and acquired from different manufacturers, clinical centers, and anatomical regions, covering as much variability as possible with the aim of making the models generalizable to other databases. Moreover, the inference performance of the end system has been evaluated on 25,596 MR series as well as the final model outputs with an external evaluation set of 1,286 MR series.
The weighting model achieves very reliable results with a macro f1-score of 0.88 in the validation set. Junk and chemical shift models achieved scores of 0.82 and 0.83respectively. These results open the door to the automatic application of image post-processing and deep learning algorithms after accurate labeling, minimizing human intervention. Furthermore, the proposed solution can infer thousands of DICOM series in less than 1 minute. Thanks to the fast inference times provided by this solution, it fits well in a big data ecosystem, eliminating any performance issues on ingestion in a semi-real-time environment.
Silver nanoparticles loaded with Origanum majorana leaves extracts attenuates the vascular endothelial cell senescence by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress
Authors: Alotaibi Asdaf , Salamatullah Ahmad M , Pandurangan Subash-Babu , Hayat Khizar , Alhussain Maha , Alkaltham Mohammed , Ahamad Syed Rizwan , Alyahya Heba Khalil , Alanazi Ibrahim
Published: May 2024

Background
Aging is thought to be associated with vascular endothelial cell dysfunction or senescence upon oxidative stress. Hence, the need of therapeutic agent to protect cells from oxidative stress intracellularly without functional loss also with high bioavailability is the biggest challenge.
Methods
In the present study, we used AgNO3 serving as reducing and capping agents to synthesis silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using commonly used aromatic plant (Mentha piperita, Mentha longifolia and Origanum majorana) extracts. The identification of phytochemical was carried out by Gas chromatography-Mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The analytical techniques including UV–vis absorption spectroscopy confirmed the formation of silver nanoparticles. FT-IR, identified the capping and reduction processes of functional groups in the Ag-NPs. SEM (Scanning electron microscopy), confirmed the uniform shape and size of the synthesized Ag-NPs.
Results
We found Origanum majorana (OM) effectively reduced with Ag-NPs and exhibited better nanoparticle-formation than the rest of the samples. Further, 2 mg/mL concentration of OM-Ag-NPs, the PDI results yielded evidence of good stability and dispersion. In addition, both the extracts and their corresponding Ag-NPs utilized to assesss their protective and beneficial effects on oxidative stress-induced HUVECs, which include nuclear damage, morphological changes associated with apoptosis, and alterations in gene expression levels. OM and its nanoparticles treated to HUVECs for 48 h increased vascular cells proliferation confirmed in MTT assay, observed with normal morphology, and mRNA expression levels confirmed the decrease of lipid peroxides (LPO), increasing antioxidants (SOD, GSK-3β, and GPx), increasing oxidative phosphorylating (CYP1a), and decreasing Tumor suppression (p53).
Conclusion
OM and its nanoparticles are considered to be beneficial for the prevention of H2O2 induced oxidative stress, it may be a promising preventive agent for endothelial cell senescence and aging.
Mitigation of aging-related plasticity decline through taurine supplementation and environmental enrichment
Authors: Gawryluk Aleksandra , Cybulska-Klosowicz Anita , Charzynska Agata , Zakrzewska Renata , Sobolewska Alicja , Kossut Malgorzata , Liguz-Lecznar Monika
Published: May 2024

Aging-related biochemical changes in nerve cells lead to dysfunctional synapses and disrupted neuronal circuits, ultimately affecting vital processes such as brain plasticity, learning, and memory. The imbalance between excitation and inhibition in synaptic function during aging contributes to cognitive impairment, emphasizing the importance of compensatory mechanisms. Fear conditioning-related plasticity of somatosensory barrel cortex, relying on the proper functioning and extensive upregulation of GABAergic system, in particular interneurons containing somatostatin, is compromised in aging (one-year-old) mice. The present research explores two potential interventions, taurine supplementation and environmental enrichment, revealing their effectiveness in supporting learning-induced plasticity in the aging mouse brain. They do not act through a mechanism normalizing the Glutamate/GABA balance that is disrupted in aging, but they do allow for increase in somatostatin levels, an effect observed in young animals after learning. These findings highlight the potential of lifestyle interventions and diet supplementation to mitigate age-related cognitive decline by promoting experience-dependent plasticity.
Interaction of 5-fluorouracil on the surface of graphene oxide nanosheet: Stability and electronic properties
Authors: Sari Fathah Dian , Lukmantoro Arif , Wahid Rahmat A Hi , Absor Moh. Adhib Ulil
Published: May 2024

Understanding the interaction mechanism of the drug molecules on the nanostructured material's surface is crucial for the development of effective drug delivery systems. Motivated by the recent studies of the possible use of a carbon-based nanomaterial as a drug delivery substrate for the anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5FU) molecule, we systematically investigate the structural stability and electronic properties of the adsorption interaction of the 5FU molecule on the graphene oxide nanosheet (GON) surface by using density-functional theory (DFT) calculations. The optimized structural geometry, energetic and thermal stability, dipole moment, and charge transfer of the 5FU molecules adsorption on the GON surface were determined, while the electronic properties including band structures, density of states, wave functions, and electronic charge density were analyzed. We find that both the surface epoxy or hydroxyl groups of the GON can promote the adsorption of 5FU molecules on the surface, while the enhancement of the adsorption energy for the hydroxyl groups is greater than that for the epoxy groups on the surface. This phenomenon significantly alters electronic states from semiconductor to metallic via rehybridization orbitals mediated by oxygen functional groups. Therefore, our findings suggest that GON surfaces could serve as promising platforms for delivering the anticancer drug 5FU.
Enhanced Vibration Measurement through Frequency Modulated Laser Diode Self-Mixing Interferometry
Authors: Liao Jiung-Ran , Chen Chien-Ming , Hsiao Vincent K.S.
Published: May 2024

Self-mixing interference (SMI) has emerged as a powerful non-contact vibration sensing technique, leveraging the inherent coupling between laser emission and external optical feedback. However, conventional SMI systems often face limitations in signal resolution and measurement accuracy, particularly when probing low-amplitude vibrations or low-reflectivity targets. This study proposes a novel frequency modulation (FM) approach, FM-SMI, to enhance the capabilities of SMI setups. By intentionally modulating the laser frequency of 20 kHz, the FM-SMI technique induces a segmentation of the interference signal, effectively increasing the temporal resolution and facilitating the detection of finer vibration details. Comprehensive experiments involving oscillating speakers and rotating silicon wafers validate the superior performance of the FM-SMI system. Notably, the frequency-modulated signals exhibit stability and robustness, even under low-amplitude vibration conditions or when targeting low-reflectivity surfaces. The enhanced signal quality, coupled with numerical processing techniques, enables precise extraction of vibration characteristics, including amplitude variations and surface topographies. The proposed FM-SMI approach demonstrates its potential as a versatile tool for high-precision, non-contact vibration measurements across diverse applications, such as, non-destructive testing and the characterization of vibration induced by the rotational systems.
Distribution and Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in the Wetlands in the Upper, Middle, and Lower Reaches of the Yellow River Basin: A Study Focusing on the Yellow River Delta, Henan Section and Ningxia Section
Authors: Zhou Yiqiao , Li Shuo , Yang Fan , Guan Qingsong , Zhang Ning
Published: May 2024

Wetlands serve as significant sinks and sources of heavy metals. In this study, surface soil samples (0–25 cm) were collected from 15 sampling sites across the wetlands on the Ningxia, Henan,and the delta wetlands reaches to investigate the contents, distributions, and ecologic risks of heavy metals such as As and Cd in the wetland sediments in the Yellow River. The results revealed that the wetland soils in the upper and lower reaches were alkalineand more conducive to heavy metal enrichment. There was no significant spatial distribution pattern of the heavy metals across the wetlands in the Yellow River.The contents of the heavy metals decreased with increasing soil depth vertical profile each sampling sites. Geoaccumulation index (Igeo) analysis revealed that heavy metals had a negative Igeo value at each sampling site, expect for the following metals and sampling sites: in the Tianhe Bay wetland, the Igeo values for Cd, Mn, and Ni were 0.71, 0.17, and 0.04, respectively; in the middle reaches, the Igeo value for Cd was 0.28; and in the lower reaches, the Igeo value for Sb in the delta wetlands was 0.21.Pollution load index analysis and enrichment factor (EF) analysis revealed the occurrence of severe Cd contamination in the Ningxia, with an EF of greater than 3, indicating a high degree of anthropogenic impact. There was a strong correlation (correlation coefficient > 0.8) among the various heavy metals in the wetlands in both the Ningxia and delta wetlands, suggesting a common source for these elements.
Magnetic solid-phase extraction of Sudan dyes from beverage using polydopamine-coated magnetite/silica materials
Authors: Guo Yugao , Niu Xiaoxiao , Li Boyu , Liu Pei , Sun Youqing , Lu Sumin
Published: May 2024

In this work, a kind of polydopamine-coated magnetite/silica material (Fe3O4@SiO2/PDA) as adsorbents was successfully synthesized and characterized by FT-IR, XRD, and XPS. Based on the above-mentioned adsorbents, a rapid, simple, and efficacious electromagnet-magnetic solid phase extraction (EM-MSPE) was reported and applied to the extraction and determination of Sudan dyes (Sudan I, Sudan II, Sudan III, and Sudan IV included) in the beverage samples. Meanwhile, four Sudanese dyes were separated and determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Significant parameters including adsorbent dosage, pH, inorganic salt concentration, adsorption time, voltage, type, eluent volume and desorption time were investigated and optimized. A good linearity (R2>0.999) with linear range of 5-1000 μg L-1 and the limit of detection (LOD) in the range of 0.11-0.17 μg L-1 were obtained under the optimum experimental conditions. The recoveries of Sudan dyes ranged from 89.1%-101.9%, with the relative standard deviation (RSD) ranging from 0.3% to 3.6% in the analysis of real samples and there was no significant decrease in the extraction recoveries of Sudan dyes after ten uses of Fe3O4@SiO2/PDA. These results illustrated that the present method is effective and accurate with excellent reproducibility for the Sudan dyes in the beverage samples.
Mixed Reality Training for Medical First Responders: System Evaluation and Recommendations
Authors: Zechner Olivia , Uhl Jakob , Baetzner Anke , Birrenbach Tanja , Egger-Lampl Sebastian , Schrom-Feiertag Helmut , Tscheligi Manfred
Published: May 2024

Purpose: This study assesses the integration of Mixed Reality (MR) technologies in medical first responder (MFR) training, focusing on identifying key factors influencing behavioral intention to use MR systems and practical implications for technology acceptance and enhanced realism through haptic feedback.
Methods: Through a User-Centered Design approach, involving co-creation workshops, iterative development, and evaluations in pilot and field trials across six countries, this study evaluated technology acceptance, presence, user experience, and workload among MFRs. Both quantitative measures and qualitative feedback were collected to analyze the determinants of technology acceptance and user engagement.
Results: The MED1stMR Training System, developed as a result, demonstrates that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social presence are significant predictors of behavioral intention to use MR training systems among MFRs. High technology acceptance and positive user experience were reported, with specific emphasis on the educational value of haptic feedback in skill training. Trainer feedback highlighted the importance of real-time performance metrics and openness to AI-driven training assistance for enhancing training outcomes.
Conclusion: The study underscores the critical role of realistic patient interaction and the importance of aligning training challenges with users' skills to create engaging MR training environments for MFRs. Identifying factors influencing behavioral intention offers valuable insights for the development of MR training systems, suggesting a focus on social presence and interactive capabilities to improve realism and educational value. The findings advocate for the integration of adaptive training features and further exploration of AI support in scenario optimization and performance enhancement.
Sleep-wake body temperature regulates tau secretion in mice and correlates with CSF and plasma tau in humans
Authors: Canet* Geoffrey , Monteiro Felipe Da Gama , Rocaboy Emma , Diego-Diaz Sofia , Khelaifia Boutheyna , Kim Jessica , Valencia Daphne I. , Yin Audrey , Wu Hau-Tieng , Howell Jordan , Blank Emily , Laliberté Francis , Fortin Nadia , Boscher Emmanuelle , Fereydouni-Forouzandeh Parissa , Champagne Stéphanie , Guisle Isabelle , Hébert Sébastien S. , Pernet Vincent , Liu Haiyan , Lu William , Debure Ludovic , Rapoport David M. , Ayappa Indu , Varga Andrew W. , Parekh Ankit , Osorio Ricardo S. , Lacroix Steve , Lucey Brendan P. , Blessing* Esther M. , Planel* Emmanuel
Published: May 2024

The sleep-wake cycle regulates interstitial fluid and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tau levels in both mouse and human by mechanisms that remain unestablished. Here, we reveal a novel pathway by which wakefulness increases extracellular tau levels in mouse and humans. In mice, higher body temperature (BT) associated with wakefulness and sleep deprivation increased CSF tau. In vitro, wakefulness temperatures upregulated tau secretion via a temperature-dependent increase in activity and expression of unconventional protein secretion pathway-1 components, namely caspase-3-mediated C-terminal cleavage of tau (TauC3), and membrane expression of PIP2 and syndecan-3. In humans, the increase in both CSF and plasma tau levels observed post-wakefulness correlated with BT increase during wakefulness. Our findings suggest sleep-wake variation in BT may contribute to regulating extracellular tau levels, highlighting the importance of thermoregulation in pathways linking sleep disturbance to neurodegeneration, and the potential for thermal intervention to prevent or delay tau-mediated neurodegeneration.

*Geoffrey Canet, Esther M. Blessing, and Emmanuel Planel contributed equally to this work.
Utilizing Pretrained Models to Enhance Hybrid Neural Networks in Low Data Situations
Authors: Borah Rima Lalung , Nandi Gypsy
Published: May 2024

Marine ecosystems are vital to the survival of life on Earth, but they are difficult to monitor and comprehend due to their complexity. Evaluating biodiversity and ecological health is hampered by the labor-intensive and scope-restricted nature of traditional observation techniques. We use deep learning and computer vision technologies to analyze underwater imagery taken by remote vehicles in order to overcome these limitations. To accurately identify marine organisms, we systematically evaluate five state-of-the-art neural network architectures: ResNet50V2, ResNet152V2, InceptionV3, Xception, and MobileNetV2. In addition, we suggest a novel hybrid ensemble method that improves detection robustness and accuracy by combining predictions from several models. Our research offers promising new directions for marine management and conservation efforts as it signifies a major breakthrough in automated sea animal detection.
Enhancing Prospective Teachers' Abilities for Supporting Student Reasoning on Quadratic Functions
Authors: Abdelmalak Mariam
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a TMSSR (Teacher Moves for Supporting Student Reasoning)-based intervention could enhance prospective middle school teachers' abilities for supporting student reasoning on quadratic functions. Participants (N = 17) engaged with quadratic functions, practiced the TMSSR framework through scriptwriting assignments, received feedback and revised their scripts, compared and contrasted scenarios, and discussed ways to achieve high-potential moves during the intervention. Data sources included participants' pre/post scriptwriting tasks along with take-home assignments across the intervention. Results indicated the TMSSR-based intervention was effective in improving prospective teachers' repertoire of high-leverage moves for eliciting, responding to, facilitating, and extending student mathematical reasoning. Specific areas of improvement included eliciting understanding, promoting error correction, providing guidance, encouraging reflection, and pressing for generalizations. This study suggests a framework that mathematics teacher educators can use to improve prospective teachers' abilities for supporting student reasoning.
Methodological Reasoning for Determining Optimal Economic Size of Regions: A Multi-Layer Perceptron Approach
Authors: Benida Omar
Published: May 2024

This article is intended as a methodological contribution to reasoning about the optimal economic size of a region. Determining this size enables public authorities to act to reduce economic inequalities between regions. However, econometric methods based on panel regressions are largely unaware of recent rapid developments in machine learning methods. This article proposes a predictive model based on the Multi-Layer Perceptron - non-linary regression to determine the optimal economic size of a region. The eight out of twenty variables selected to determine the optimal economic size of a region were statistically analyzed using SPSS before being introduced into the model. The model revealed a very low loss of around 0.0303, and a val_loss of 0.0527. This confirmed the good performance of the model adopted. The data prediction was obtained through an unconstrained optimization where all regions converge towards the average Gross Domestic Product and a simulation based on the Morocco's new development model to be adopted in June 2021 guidelines stipulating an average growth of 6% by 2035. The originality of this approach lies in the combination of economic, demographic, and environmental dimensions to determine the relevant variables of economic development. It also relies on the use of predictive modeling powered by Artificial Intelligence, in particular machine learning. The direct implications the results of this empirical approach are likely to enable researchers and doctoral students working on this theme of regionalization and economic growth to master the prediction of other socio-economic and political/governance variables with good precision.
Characteristics of geochemistry in Ordovician Limestone Groundwater
Authors: Shidong Wang , Tiantian Wang
Published: May 2024

studying the Characteristics of groundwater geochemistry in arid area in northwest China, is important for coal mine water prevention. 34 groundwater samples were collected for hydrogeochemical analyses and piper trilinear diagram were used to study groundwater Characteristics of geochemistry. The results show that the concentration of Na++ K+, HCO3-, Cl-, SO42-, TDS, and pH increase from the recharge area to the discharge area, however, that of Ca2+ and Mg2+ decreases.And each indicator varied greatly in the north and south of the coalfield. Hydrogeochemical types of the runoff from Zhuozishan Mountain to Gongdeer Mountain and then to the south-north directional change. And the groundwater process is controlled by rock weathering action and cation exchange. Whereas the hydrochemical type of the runoff from Zhuozishan Mountain to the south is always SO4▪Cl-Ca▪Na type
An Empirical Exploration of Factors Contributing to Malaysian Men Becoming Involved in a Feminine Career: A Case Study of Male Nurse and Pak Andam
Authors: Siti Salina Abdullah  , Suhaili Arifin  , Fazliyaton Ramley  , Zakaria Mohamad  , Mohd Sani Ismail  , Khuzaimah Mustapa
Published: May 2024

The gender socialisation process will form and affect the career choices of children when they grow up. As a result, certain careers are considered appropriate only for a certain gender. However, this scenario of gender dominated career is now loosened. Currently, there are men who work as nurses, secretaries, and bridal beauticians. This study examines the factors that influence Malay, Muslim Malaysian men to work in two careers generally dominated by women, which are nurse and “pak andam” (Malay bridal beautician and consultant). Using a case study qualitative approach, the author investigated the factors that influence male nurses (N = 14) and “pak andam” (N = 5) to work in occupations generally considered to be the main domain of women in Malaysia’s culture. Data from semi-structured interviews revealed that the reason why men become male nurses is mainly caused by external factors, which are family obedience, financial disadvantage, and  religious obligation. However, during their journey in becoming nurses, they developed their passion for nursing. In contrast, the males who become “pak andam” do so mainly because of personal factors, which is their interest in beauty and fashion. This paper will further discuss the participants’ experiences from the context of Malay Muslim culture.
Isolated ocular sarcoidosis
Authors: Safonova Т. N. , Zaitseva G. V.
Published: May 2024

A rare clinical case of a patient with isolated sarcoidosis of the eyes is presented. Sarcoidosis is a polyethological disease, the morphological feature of which is the formation of epithelioid cell granulomas in various organs and tissues, which is accompanied by a violation of their structure and function. Both congenital and adaptive immune systems are involved in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis, with damage to lymph nodes, lungs, skin, organ of vision, etc. Risk factors for the development of sarcoidosis have not been definitively established. Environmental factors and genetic predisposition play a crucial role in the development of the disease. The above clinical observation demonstrates the polymorphism of the clinical picture of isolated ocular sarcoidosis. In addition to standard ophthalmic examination methods, the genetic method of reverse transcription and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR, English qRT-PCR) was also used to determine the expression profile of signature microRNAs as potential diagnostic markers of sarcoidosis of the organ of vision.An increase in the expression level of hsa-miR-455-3p, hsa-miR-4663, hsamiR68063p, hsa-miR-450b-5p, hsa-miR-6716-3p, hsa-miR-5000-5p, hsa-miR150-5p can be considered as potential diagnostic biomarkers of sarcoid lesion of eye structures. With sarcoidosis, the involvement of the lacrimal gland is possible. In the presented clinical observation, this was indicated by the results of a functional examination, sonographic signs: revealed multiple linear tubular hyperechoic structures and a decrease in blood flow velocity in the ocular and lacrimal arteries, as well as an increase in the expression activity of hsa-miR150-5p (p < 0.05). In order to prevent possible damage to the ocular surface due to the development of lacrimal gland dysfunction, it is advisable to prescribe local tear replacement therapy with hyaluronic acid preparations. Such effective drugs include tear substitutes of the Optinol® line: “Optinol® Express Moisture” and “Optinol® Deep Moisture”.
Compendium of pH-sensitive polymers in gastroenterology drugs: focus on enteric coatings
Authors: Serebrova S. Yu. , Evteev V. A. , Demchenkova E. Yu. , Prokofiev A. B.
Published: May 2024

This compendium for gastroenterologists and hepatologists contains information about pH-sensitive polymers used in dosage forms for oral administration and delivery of drugs to certain parts of the gastrointestinal tract. There is more information here on pH-insensitive polymers in laxatives, hepatology antivirals and rectal agents. There is also background information on the chemical, spatial structure and properties of pH-sensitive and individual pH-insensitive polymers, the physiological basis for their transformations under certain characteristics of the environment in the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract. These are aspects of their use in targeted drug delivery systems, use as active ingredients or “increasers” of the molecular weight of other active ingredients. The main attention is paid to polymers used in the production of enteric coatings for tablets and granules (pellets). The material is illustrated with examples of drugs registered in the Russian Federation and promising drugs with dosage forms for diffuse application of antibiotics to the gastric mucosa, for targeted delivery of drugs to the duodenum and other parts of the small and large intestines. Chitosan-based hydrogels, a liposomal form of doxycycline, enteric dosage forms with pH-sensitive polymers, more complex delivery systems with two drug release triggers, and dosage forms with thermosensitive polymers have been described. Thus, polymers, which are an essential component of the environment and living conditions of modern humans, entered the pharmacotherapeutic field as active substances or components that increase the the local pharmacodynamic effect, bioavailability or slow down the excretion of drugs. Knowledge of the chemical and structural features of high-molecular compounds, their changes in certain environmental conditions is necessary for making the right decisions in those areas of medicine where drugs with polymers of different properties are used, in particular, in gastroenterology, proctology and hepatology.
Noninvasive diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux as an extraesophageal manifestation of gastroesophageal reflux disease: A literature review
Authors: Starostina S. V. , Nazarov K. A. , Loskutova P. A. , Tashchyan O. V. , Mnatsakanyan M. G.
Published: May 2024

Тo date, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is considered as a condition that includes various subgroups: erosive esophagitis, non-erosive reflux disease, Barrett’s esophagus, hypersensitive esophagus and functional heartburn. A common extraesophageal manifestation of GERD is laryngopharyngeal reflux (LFR), in which, in addition to dyspeptic symptoms, patients note hoarseness, cough, tickling and a feeling of a foreign body in the throat. When LFR occurs, the direct effect of gastroduodenal reflux on the mucous membrane of the larynx and pharynx leads to morphological changes, the development of pachyderma and laryngeal granuloma; indirect activation of reflex mechanisms causes the manifestation of esophagobronchial reflux. The diagnosis of LFR includes an analysis of the patient’s life history, registration of complaints using questionnaires (Index of reflux symptoms), assessment of the clinical and functional state of the larynx using a visually analog scale of reflux signs and videolaryngostroboscopy, the use of instrumental methods and laboratory tests. The detected laryngoscopic signs are not always pathognomonic for GERD-associated LFR: extraesophageal manifestations of the disease can also be observed in the absence of the most typical esophageal symptoms, which is a serious diagnostic problem. Due to the fact that not all instrumental diagnostic methods are informative in various cases of reflux-associated diseases, non-invasive methods are more convenient at the outpatient stage of patient examination questioning patients using special scales and questionnaires. The article presents the most informative and rational methods of noninvasive screening of GERD-associated diseases available in the available literature, aimed at identifying the severity of reflux manifestations, the level of patient satisfaction with their condition and the effectiveness of therapy. In order to improve the screening diagnostic process of LFR, it is necessary to develop and implement a reliable and sensitive questionnaire with an interdisciplinary approach.
Prospects for the use of telemedicine technologies based on artificial intelligence during medical examination
Authors: Seliverstov P. V.
Published: May 2024

Telemedicine technologies based on artificial intelligence are certainly relevant and promising areas of medical development in Russia and the world. Thanks to their active implementation in practical healthcare, medicine has moved to a new level of quality in the provision of electronic medical services. One of the urgent problems of modern healthcare worldwide is the growing number of chronic non-communicable diseases. To date, the economic and social losses associated with their spread have reached significant levels in most countries of the world. In this connection, there is an urgent need to develop measures aimed at early identification of risk factors contributing to the development of chronic non-communicable diseases and their timely correction. In a number of countries, today the use of modern technologies, including those based on artificial intelligence, which guarantee the identification of risk factors and complications of chronic noncommunicable diseases at an early stage, which, in turn, allows to increase the effectiveness of treatment, and ultimately improve the quality of medical care. By using systems capable of processing huge amounts of medical data and providing the doctor with a comprehensive assessment of the available information within a few seconds, it is possible to significantly increase the efficiency of the doctor’s work, while not lengthening the appointment time and even reducing the workload. Telemedicine systems based on intelligent technologies that are being created for practical use must undergo clinical trials and verification of diagnostic accuracy. Systems for determining risk factors for chronic noncommunicable diseases that have been successfully tested are already being used today for preventive medical examinations.
Morphological changes in the neuroepithelium of the olfactory zone of the nasal cavity in patients with chronic polypous rhinosinusitis
Authors: Elizbaryan I. S. , Lazareva L. A. , Chuprinenko L. M. , Chabanets E. A. , Parfenova A. G.
Published: May 2024

Introduction. The polymorphism of clinical manifestations of chronic polypous rhinosinusitis determines the need for a detailed scientific approach in the study of pathogenetic mechanisms.

Aim. To study the morphological manifestations of disorders of the neuroepithelium of the olfactory zone of the nasal cavity in patients with chronic polypous rhinosinusitis.

Materials and methods. We conducted a prospective analysis of biopsic specimens as well as clinical and functional parameters of 16 patients with chronic polypous rhinosinusitis, who were divided into two groups: treatment group (A) and comparison group (B), aged 25 to 65 years (average age 53 ± 14.3 years). The study subset included 7 men and 9 women. We assessed the main clinical manifestations: radiologic abnormalities in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses evaluated according to the Lund-Mackay score, olfactometry and MoCA test in addition to a pathomorphological examination of olfactory neuroepithelium biopsied from the nasal cavity and determination of the chronic inflammation activity index using a histological activity score.

Results. In all patients with chronic polypous rhinosinusitis in the symptom complex, there was a violation of the sense of smell in the variants of hyposmia (50%) and anosmia (50%). The presence of neurocognitive disorders according to the MOS test was detected in 70% of patients. During morphological examination, pathological disorders in the olfactory zone of the nasal cavity were caused by atrophy of nerve fibers and lympho-macrophage infiltration involving mixed glands (variable range – mild/moderate/severe). All the analyzed signs were directly dependent on the duration of the disease and the severity of the lesion.

Discussion. Analysis of radiologic findings according to the Lund-MacKay score combined with the age of the patients and duration of the disease confirms the rationale of conducted study and its topicality.

Conclusion. The revealed pathological changes in the neuroepithelium of the nasal cavity in the olfactory zone were observed only in patients with chronic polypous rhinosinusitis and were directly dependent on the duration of the disease and the form of the inflammatory process.
European guidelines for the treatment of arterial hypertension 2023: new trends
Authors: Leonova M. V.
Published: May 2024

The treatment strategy for arterial hypertension is aimed at controlling blood pressure levels, as well as preventing serious cardiovascular complications and affecting the prognosis of the disease. Therefore, pharmacotherapy of arterial hypertension is given great importance as a guide to the treatment of patients in real practice. The new 2023 European Society Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension were developed after a thorough analysis of studies in the field of arterial hypertension, and were not limited to RCTs only, but also included realistic studies (observational, cohort, administrative databases). The 2023 Guidelines support the proven value of five major classes of antihypertensive drugs: thiazide/thiazide-like diuretics, ACEIs, ARBs, calcium antagonists, and β-blockers. New data from meta-analyses support the greater clinical relevance of RAS blockers, calcium channel blockers, and thiazide/thiazide-like diuretics in preventing hypertension-related outcomes, leading to their preferred use in the pharmacotherapy of arterial hypertension, including various combinations of drugs. A new trend in the pharmacotherapy of arterial hypertension has been the inclusion of β-blockers among the main antihypertensive drugs, including their preferred use for a number of clinical conditions. New classes of drugs, such as SGLT2 inhibitors and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, are cited as having BP-lowering effects and with strong evidence of reduced cardiovascular and renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes and, in the case of SGLT2 inhibitors, in non-diabetic patients. The 2023 Guidelines significantly updated information on available combination strategies for the treatment of arterial hypertension, and added data on the effectiveness of fixed combinations, including quadropills and polypills.