bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffuse argyrophilic grain disease with TDP-43 proteinopathy and neuronal intermediate filament inclusion disease: FTLD with mixed tau, TDP-43 and FUS pathologies
Authors: Koga Shunsuke , Murakami Aya , Soto-Beasley Alexandra I. , Walton Ronald L. , Baker Matthew C. , Castanedes-Casey Monica , Josephs Keith A. , Ross Owen A. , Dickson Dennis W.
Published: July 2023

Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is a group of disorders characterized by degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes, leading to progressive decline in language, behavior, and motor function. FTLD can be further subdivided into three main subtypes, FTLD-tau, FTLD-TDP and FTLD-FUS based which of the three major proteins – tau, TDP-43 or FUS – forms pathological inclusions in neurons and glia. In this report, we describe an 87-year-old woman with a 7-year history of cognitive decline, hand tremor and gait problems, who was thought to have Alzheimer’s disease. At autopsy, histopathological analysis revealed severe neuronal loss, gliosis and spongiosis in the medial temporal lobe, orbitofrontal cortex, cingulate gyrus, amygdala, basal forebrain, nucleus accumbens, caudate nucleus and anteromedial thalamus. Tau immunohistochemistry showed numerous argyrophilic grains, pretangles, thorn-shaped astrocytes, and ballooned neurons in the amygdala, hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus, anteromedial thalamus, insular cortex, superior temporal gyrus and cingulate gyrus, consistent with diffuse argyrophilic grain disease (AGD). TDP-43 pathology in the form of small, dense, rounded neuronal cytoplasmic inclusion with few short dystrophic neurites was observed in the limbic regions, superior temporal gyrus, striatum and midbrain. No neuronal intranuclear inclusion was observed. Additionally, FUS-positive inclusions were observed in the dentate gyrus. Compact, eosinophilic intranuclear inclusions, so-called “cherry spots,” that were visible on histologic stains were immunopositive for α-internexin. Taken together, the patient had a mixed neurodegenerative disease with features of diffuse AGD, TDP-43 proteinopathy and neuronal intermediate filament inclusion disease. She met criteria for three subtypes of FTLD: FTLD-tau, FTLD-TDP and FTLD-FUS. Her amnestic symptoms that were suggestive of Alzheimer’s type dementia are best explained by diffuse AGD and medial temporal TDP-43 proteinopathy, and her motor symptoms were likely explained by neuronal loss and gliosis due to tau pathology in the substantia nigra. This case underscores the importance of considering multiple proteinopathies in the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases.
Ratiometric and discriminative visualization of autophagic processes with a novel dual-responded lysosome-specific fluorescent probe
Authors: Zheng Fan , Ma Yeshuo , Ding Jipeng , Huang Shuai , Zhang Shengwang , Huang Xueyan , Feng Bin , Zeng Hongliang , Chen Fei , Zeng Wenbin
Published: July 2023

Background

Autophagy is a critical self-eating pathway involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes. Lysosomal degradation of dysfunctional organelles and invading microorganisms is central to the autophagy mechanism and essential for combating disease-related conditions. Therefore, monitoring fluctuations in the lysosomal microenvironment is vital for tracking the dynamic process of autophagy. Although much effort has been put into designing probes for measuring lysosomal viscosity or pH separately, there is a need to validate the concurrent imaging of the two elements to enhance the understanding of the dynamic progression of autophagy.

Methods

Probe
HFI
was synthesized in three steps and was developed to visualize changes in viscosity and pH within lysosomes for real-time autophagy tracking. Then, the spectrometric determination was carried out. Next, the probe was applied to image autophagy in cells under nutrient-deprivation or external stress. Additionally, the performance of
HFI
to monitor autophagy was employed to evaluate acetaminophen-induced liver injury.

Results

We constructed a ratiometric dual-responsive probe,
HFI
, with a large Stokes shift over 200 nm, dual-wavelength emission, and small background interference. The ratiometric fluorescent signal (R = 
I
610
/
I
460
) of
HFI
had an excellent correlation with both viscosity and pH. More importantly, high viscosity and low pH had a synergistic promotion effect on the emission intensity of
HFI
, which enabled it to specially lit lysosomes without disturbing the inherent microenvironment. We then successfully used
HFI
to monitor intracellular autophagy induced by starvation or drugs in real-time. Interestingly,
HFI
also enabled us to visualize the occurrence of autophagy in the liver tissue of a DILI model, as well as the reversible effect of hepatoprotective drugs on this event.

Conclusions

In this study, we developed the first ratiometric dual-responsive fluorescent probe,
HFI
, for real-time revealing autophagic details. It could image lysosomes with minimal perturbation to their inherent pH, allowing us to track changes in lysosomal viscosity and pH in living cells. Ultimately,
HFI
has great potential to serve as a useful indicator for autophagic changes in viscosity and pH in complex biological samples and can also be used to assess drug safety.
A comprehensive AI policy education framework for university teaching and learning
Authors: Chan Cecilia Ka Yuk
Published: July 2023

This study aims to develop an AI education policy for higher education by examining the perceptions and implications of text generative AI technologies. Data was collected from 457 students and 180 teachers and staff across various disciplines in Hong Kong universities, using both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Based on the findings, the study proposes an AI Ecological Education Policy Framework to address the multifaceted implications of AI integration in university teaching and learning. This framework is organized into three dimensions: Pedagogical, Governance, and Operational. The Pedagogical dimension concentrates on using AI to improve teaching and learning outcomes, while the Governance dimension tackles issues related to privacy, security, and accountability. The Operational dimension addresses matters concerning infrastructure and training. The framework fosters a nuanced understanding of the implications of AI integration in academic settings, ensuring that stakeholders are aware of their responsibilities and can take appropriate actions accordingly.
Compared efficacy of rituximab, abatacept, and tocilizumab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis refractory to methotrexate or TNF inhibitors agents: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Pugliesi Alisson , de Oliveira Amanda Borges , Oliveira Ana Beatrice , Xavier Ricardo , da Mota Licia Maria Henrique , Bertolo Manoel Barros , Gonzalez-Gay Miguel Angel , Citera Gustavo , de Carvalho Luiz Sergio Fernandes
Published: July 2023

Background

Our aim was to compare the efficacy of rituximab, tocilizumab, and abatacept in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) refractory to treatments with MTX or TNFi agents.

Methods

We searched 6 databases until January 2023 for phase 2–4 RCTs evaluating patients with RA refractory to MTX or TNFi therapy treated with rituximab, abatacept, and tocilizumab (intervention arm) compared to controls. Study data were independently assessed by two investigators. The primary outcome was considered as achieving ACR70 response.

Results

The meta-analysis included 19 RCTs, with 7,835 patients and a mean study duration of 1.2 years. Hazard ratios for achieving an ACR70 response at six months were not different among the bDMARDs, however, we found high heterogeneity. Three factors showing a critical imbalance among the bDMARD classes were identified: baseline HAQ score, study duration, and frequency of TNFi treatment in control arm. Multivariate meta-regression adjusted to these three factors were conducted for the relative risk (RR) for ACR70. Thus, heterogeneity was attenuated (I2 = 24%) and the explanatory power of the model increased (R2 = 85%). In this model, rituximab did not modify the chance of achieving an ACR70 response compared to abatacept (RR = 1.773, 95%CI 0.113–10.21,p = 0.765). In contrast, abatacept was associated with RR = 2.217 (95%CI 1.554–3.161,p < 0.001) for ACR70 compared to tocilizumab.

Conclusion

We found high heterogeneity among studies comparing rituximab, abatacept, and tocilizumab. On multivariate metaregressions, if the conditions of the RCTs were similar, we estimate that abatacept could increase the chance of reaching an ACR70 response by 2.2-fold compared to tocilizumab.
Current practice and attitudes of stroke physicians towards rhythm-control therapy for stroke prevention: results of an international survey
Authors: Jensen Märit , Al-Shahi Salman Rustam , Ng G. Andre , van der Worp H. Bart , Loh Peter , Campbell Bruce C. V. , Kalman Jonathan M. , Hill Michael D. , Sposato Luciano A. , Andrade Jason G. , Metzner Andreas , Kirchhof Paulus , Thomalla Götz
Published: July 2023

Background

Patients with ischemic stroke and atrial fibrillation (AF) are at particularly high risk for recurrent stroke and cardiovascular events. Early rhythm control has been shown to be superior to usual care for the prevention of stroke and cardiovascular events for people with early AF. There are no data on the willingness to use rhythm control for patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke in clinical practice.

Methods

An online survey was carried out among stroke physicians to assess current practice and attitudes toward rhythm control in patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke between December 22nd 2021 and March 24th 2022.

Results

The survey was completed by 277 physicians including 237 from 15 known countries and 40 from unspecified countries. 79% (210/266) reported that they do not regularly apply treatment for rhythm control by ablation or antiarrhythmic drugs at all or only in small numbers (≤ 10%) of patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke. In those patients treated with rhythm-control therapy, antiarrhythmic drugs were used by the majority of respondents (89%), while only a minority reported using AF ablation (11%). 88% of respondents (221/250) stated that they would be willing to randomize patients with AF after acute ischemic stroke to either early rhythm control or usual care in a clinical trial.

Conclusion

Despite its potential benefit, few patients with AF and acute ischemic stroke appear to be treated with rhythm control, which may result from uncertainty regarding potential complications of antiarrhythmic therapy in patients with acute stroke. Together with recent data on the effectiveness of early rhythm control in patients with a history of stroke, these results call for a randomized clinical trial to assess the efficacy of early rhythm control in patients with acute ischemic stroke and AF.
Bayesian geophysical basin modeling with seismic kinematic metrics to quantify uncertainty for pore pressure prediction
Authors: Fonseca Josue , Pradhan Anshuman , Mukerji Tapan
Published: July 2023

Bayesian geophysical basin modeling (BGBM) methodology is an interdisciplinary workflow that incorporates data, geologic expertise, and physical processes through Bayesian inference in sedimentary basin models. Its application culminates in subsurface models and properties that integrate the geohistory of a basin, rock-physics definitions, well-log and drilling data, and seismic information. Monte Carlo basin modeling realizations are performed by sampling from prior probability distributions on facies parameters and basin boundary conditions. After the data assimilation, the accepted set of posterior subsurface models yields an uncertainty quantification of subsurface properties. This procedure is especially suitable for pore pressure prediction in a predrill stage. However, the high computational cost of seismic data assimilation decreases the practicality of the workflow. Therefore, we introduce and investigate seismic traveltime criteria as computationally faster proxies for analyzing the seismic data likelihood when using BGBM. Our surrogate schemes weigh the prior basin model results with the available seismic data with no need to perform expensive seismic depth-migration procedures for each Monte Carlo realization. Furthermore, we apply BGBM in a real field case from the Gulf of Mexico using a 2D section for pore pressure prediction considering different kinematic criteria. The workflow implementation with the novel seismic data assimilation proxies is compared with the complete computationally expensive benchmark approach, which uses a global analysis of the residual moveout in depth-migrated seismic image samples. Moreover, we validate and compare the outcomes for predicted pore pressure with mudweight data from a blind well. The fast proxy for analyzing the depth positioning of seismic horizons developed in this work yields similar uncertainty quantification results in pore pressure prediction compared with the computationally expensive benchmark. Our fast proxies make the BGBM methodology efficient and practical.
Resection of Residual Masses After Chemotherapy for Metastatic Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumors in Adolescents and Adults
Authors: Gilligan Timothy D.
Published: July 2023

Resection of all residual masses after chemotherapy remains the standard of care in testicular nonseminomas.
Case Report: Parental Separation by Proxy Using Video Conference Between Patient and Parent for Induction of Anesthesia
Authors: Quiñónez Zoel A. , Brandford Elena , Char Danton
Published: July 2023

Anesthetic induction in children can have significant psychological and behavioral impacts. Strategies like premedication or parental presence for induction may reduce distress. In children who require ongoing procedural care into adulthood, like those who receive heart transplants, transitioning from these strategies toward independence may require intermediate steps. The use of parental presence by video may aid in this transition. It might also be a reasonable approach for those children who have adverse reactions to medications commonly used for anxiolysis before procedures.
Introducing the New Patient Expectations in Spine Oncology Questionnaire
Authors: Versteeg Anne L. , Gal Roxanne , Charest-Morin Raphaele , Reichl Leilani , Tsang Angela , Aludino Allan , Sahgal Arjun , Verlaan Jorrit-Jan , Fisher Charles G. , Verkooijen Helena M.
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

It has been hypothesized that a discrepancy between pretreatment expectations and perceived outcomes is a significant source of patient dissatisfaction. Currently, there is lack in understanding and tools to assess patient expectations regarding the outcomes of treatment for spinal metastases. The objective of this study was therefore to develop a patient expectations questionnaire regarding the outcomes after surgery and/or radiotherapy for spinal metastases.

METHODS:

A multiphase international qualitative study was conducted. Phase 1 of the study included semistructured interviews with patients and relatives to understand their expectations of the outcomes of treatment. In addition, physicians were interviewed about their communication practices with patients regarding treatment and expected outcomes. In phase 2, items were developed based on the results of the interviews in phase 1. In phase 3, patients were interviewed to validate the content and language of the questionnaire. Selection of the final items was based on feedback from patients regarding content, language, and relevance.

RESULTS:

In phase 1, 24 patients and 22 physicians were included. A total of 34 items were developed for the preliminary questionnaire. After phase 3, a total of 22 items were retained for the final version of the questionnaire. The questionnaire is divided into 3 sections: (1) patient expectations regarding treatment outcomes, (2) prognosis, and (3) consultation with the physician. The items cover expectations related to pain, analgesia requirements, daily and physical function, overall quality of life, life expectancy, and information provided by the physician.

CONCLUSION:

The new Patient Expectations in Spine Oncology questionnaire was developed to evaluate patient expectations regarding the outcomes after treatment for spinal metastases. The Patient Expectations in Spine Oncology questionnaire will allow physicians to systematically assess patient expectations of planned treatment and thus help guide patients toward realistic expectations of treatment outcome.
The sensory effects of light on the electric organ discharge rate of Gymnotus omarorum
Authors: Camargo Ana S. , Caputi Angel A. , Aguilera Pedro A.
Published: July 2023

Gymnotiformes are nocturnal fishes inhabiting the root mats of floating plants. They use their electric organ discharge (EOD) to explore the environment and to communicate. Here, we show and describe tonic and phasic sensory-electromotor responses to light distinct from indirect effects depending on the light-induced endogenous circadian rhythm. In the dark, principally during the night, inter-EOD interval histograms are bimodal: the main peak corresponds to the basal rate and a secondary peak corresponds to high-frequency bouts. Light causes a twofold tonic but opposing effect on the EOD histogram: (i) decreasing the main mode and (ii) blocking the high-frequency bouts and consequently increasing the main peak at the expense of removal of the secondary one. Additionally, light evokes phasic responses whose amplitude increases with intensity but whose slow time course and poor adaptation differentiate from the so-called novelty responses evoked by abrupt changes in sensory stimuli of other modalities. We confirmed that Gymnotus omarorum tends to escape from light, suggesting that these phasic responses are probably part of a global ‘light-avoidance response’. We interpret the data within an ecological context. Fish rest under the shade of aquatic plants during the day and light spots due to the sun's relative movement alert the fish to hide in shady zones to avoid macroptic predators and facilitate tracking the movement of floating plant islands by wind and/or water currents.
Η τριπτή και λειασμένη λιθοτεχνία κατά την Πρώιμη Εποχή του Χαλκού στην Αττική
Authors: Μέξη Μαρία
Published: July 2023

Η διατριβή αυτή αφορά στη μελέτη της τριπτής και λειασμένης λιθοτεχνίας από τρεις θέσεις της Πρώιμης Εποχής του Χαλκού στην Αττική (Κορωπί, Λαμπρικά Κορωπίου, Αγ. Κοσμάς Ελληνικού) και μία νησιωτική, τη Προβάτσα της Μακρονήσου, κοντά στην ανατολική ακτή της Λαυρεωτικής. Η προσέγγιση του αρχαιολογικού υλικού πραγματοποιήθηκε μέσω της μελέτης της εγχειρηματικής αλυσίδας των τέχνεργων, η οποία περιλαμβάνει όλα τα στάδια μορφοποίησης, παραγωγής, χρήσης και τελικής εναπόθεσης των ανθρωπίνων δημιουργημάτων. Βασικοί άξονες της μελέτης ορίστηκαν η τεχνολογία και η τυπολογία των τέχνεργων, ενώ εξετάστηκε παράλληλα η χωρική τους κατανομή. Το μεγαλύτερο ποσοτικά και ποιοτικά λίθινο υλικό προέρχεται από τον οικισμό στο Κορωπί, μία αγροτοκτηνοτροφική κοινότητα της κατηγορίας των μεγάλων οικισμών με ενδείξεις πρώιμης αστικοποίησης κατά την Πρώιμη Εποχή του Χαλκού. Η τριπτή λιθοτεχνία από το Κορωπί υπέδειξε μεγάλη ποικιλία στις πρώτες ύλες μορφοποίησης των τέχνεργων, με τα πυριγενή πετρώματα να κυριαρχούν, ευχέρεια στη διαχείριση και δεξιότητα στην κατεργασία των υλικών αυτών, ποικιλομορφία στους διάφορους εργαλειακούς τύπους, καθώς και ποικίλες χρηστικές και λειτουργικές δυνατότητες των τέχνεργων αυτών κατά τη συμμετοχή τους σε πλήθος εργασιών της κοινότητας. Αντιθέτως, η λειασμένη λιθοτεχνία της θέσης, με μικρότερη αριθμητική παρουσία, κατέδειξε προσκόλληση σε παραδοσιακούς μορφολογικούς τύπους και διάθεση συντήρησης περισσότερο της πρώτης ύλης και όχι της λειτουργικότητας των ίδιων των εργαλείων. Τα λίθινα τέχνεργα από τα Λαμπρικά και τη Προβάτσα επιβεβαίωσαν τον χαρακτήρα και την μικρή έκταση των δύο αυτών θέσεων, οι κάτοικοι των οποίων δραστηριοποιούνται σε ειδικές ασχολίες σχετικές με τη μεταλλουργία και τη μεταλλευτική διαδικασία. Στο διαθέσιμο προς εξέταση υλικό από τον Αγ. Κοσμά, τέλος, δόθηκε η δυνατότητα διαφορετικής προσέγγισής του. Η διατριβή αυτή, τέλος, ανέδειξε τις κοινωνικές προεκτάσεις της τεχνολογίας και τη συμβολή των λιθοτεχνιών από αδρό λίθο στη κατανόησή μας σχετικά με τον τρόπο δράσης και πολιτιστικού αποτυπώματος των κοινοτήτων αυτών στο ευρύ χρονολογικό και γεωγραφικό τους ορίζοντα. Τα αποτελέσματα της διατριβής αυτής συμβάλλουν στον επαναπροσδιορισμό της έρευνας στην προσέγγιση των λιθοτεχνιών αυτών με πιο ολιστικό τρόπο.
Satellite tracking identifies important foraging areas for loggerhead turtles frequenting the Adriatic Sea, Central Mediterranean
Authors: MENCACCI RESI , AIUDI LAURA , ANGELINI VALERIA , CASALE PAOLO , CERRITELLI GIULIA , LOMBARDI MORAES KAMYLA , PARI SAURO , Luschi Paolo
Published: July 2023

The Adriatic Sea is one of the main foraging areas for marine turtles of the Mediterranean Sea, but the specific high-use sites are poorly known, due to the scarceness of satellite tracking data available for juvenile turtles frequenting the area. In the present study, we tracked 8 juvenile and adult loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) that were released along the north-western Adriatic coast after a rehabilitation period having been equipped with Argos-linked satellite transmitters. Tracked turtles displayed quite variable movement patterns, but mostly remained in the north-western Adriatic, especially during the summer months. A marked preference for specific coastal sites was revealed in many turtles, that actively moved towards these specific locations when released south of it or having spent the winter away. Pooling these data with those obtained in previous studies on a further 10 turtles, we highlighted the presence of two main high-use areas, north and south of the Po River delta, where future conservation actions may then be focused.
Case Report: Effect of hyaluronic acid-enriched medium in case of post-menopausal in vitro fertilisation pregnancy
Authors: Dutta Shilpa , More Akash , Karadbhajne Priti , Shrivastava Deepti
Published: July 2023

Hyaluronate-enriched medium has been gaining attention from researchers worldwide for its effectiveness in improving the success rate of embryo transfer following implantation in those patients who suffer from recurrent implantation failure. This article reports the case of a 49-year-old patient who was unable to get pregnant naturally, and with a history of three spontaneous abortions in her 20 years marriage period. The patient also had a history of four in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle failures before enrolling at Wardha Test Tube Baby Centre situated in Sawangi, India in August 2020. The patient had positive clinical pregnancy using conventional culture media devoid of hyaluronan instead of hyaluronan-enriched media. This case report enlightens the fact that embryo transfer may be unsuccessful using hyaluronan-enriched media in the case of post-menopausal patients.
Effect of family-centered care interventions on well-being of caregivers of children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review
Authors: Poojari Deepalaxmi Paresh , Umakanth Shashikiran , Maiya G. Arun , Rao Bhamini Krishna , Khurana Sonia , Kumaran D Senthil , Attal Radhika , Brien Marie
Published: July 2023

Background: Caring for a child with long-term functional limitations can have a negative impact on the physical and psychological well-being of the caregiver. Family-centered care (FCC) interventions have the potential to empower caregivers and contribute to their well-being. This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the effectiveness of FCC interventions in improving the well-being of caregivers of children with cerebral palsy (CP), and identify the key components of such interventions that are most commonly practiced and deemed effective.

Methods: This review systematically searched seven databases for randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effectiveness of any FCC intervention on the well-being of caregivers of children with or at risk of CP. We used the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool to assess risk of bias and Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist for critical appraisal. Due to high heterogeneity of studies, narrative synthesis was used to summarize the data.

Results: The review consists of 11 studies which were categorized into five sections based on the components of FCC intervention provided in each individual study: 1. Information provision, and Enabling and partnership (n= 5); 2. Information provision, and Respectful and supportive care (n= 1); 3. Enabling and partnership (n= 2); 4. Enabling and partnership, and Respectful and supportive care (n= 2); 5. Information provision, Enabling and partnership and Respectful and supportive care (n= 1). Risk of bias was low in four studies, unclear in two studies, and high in five studies.

Conclusion: FCC interventions were found to be effective in improving caregivers’ satisfaction with attainment of child and caregiver goals. Evidence from multiple studies does not strongly support the effectiveness of FCC interventions on caregiver’s mental health, parenting and personal outcomes. Limited evidence precludes a conclusion on the effectiveness of the components of FCC on well-being of caregivers of children with CP.
Immunological changes in a cohort of COVID-19 survivors: Mansoura University experience
Authors: Elhadidy Tamer , Abdelwahab Heba Wagih , Shahin Doaa , Hewidy Asem , Khashaba Eman , Elmorsey Rehab Ahmad , Abo El Kheir Nermin , Eid Elsayed A. , El-Mesery Ahmed , Elmaria Marwa O.
Published: July 2023

Background: COVID-19 is a global pandemic that has affected millions of people all over the world since 2019. Infection with COVID-19 initiates a humoral immune response that produces antibodies against specific viral antigens, which in turn is supposed to provide immunity against reinfection for a period of time. The aim of this research was to study the kinetics of IgM and IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2.

Methods: One hundred and seventeen post-COVID-19 participants were enrolled in the study.  Qualitative assessment of IgM and IgG antibodies over six months (three visits) post recovery was conducted.

Results: The current study revealed a significant reduction in IgM and IgG titers between the first and second visits (p <0.001). After six months, the antibody titer had declined by 78.8% from the first visit for IgM and by 49.2% for IgG antibodies. Regarding younger age and male sex, statistically significant persistence of IgM antibodies was noticed at the six months follow up. Also, statistically significant persistent IgG immunity was found in male patients and diabetics by the end of the six months follow up.

Conclusions: We observed a significant waning of IgM and IgG titers over a period of six months follow up.. The persistence of positive IgM and IgG antibodies by the end of six months was variable due to differences in age, gender and presence of diabetes mellitus.
Historical memory as a component of higher historical education
Authors:   Municipal Establishment ", Finin Heorhii ,   Kharkiv Humanitarian and Pedagogical Academy",   of the Kharkiv Regional Council, Rudnik Denys ,   Municipal Establishment "Kharkiv Humanitarian and Pedagogical Academy" of the Kharkiv Regional Council, Khriapin Eduard ,   Municipal Establishment "Kharkiv Humanitarian and Pedagogical Academy" of the Kharkiv Regional Council
Published: July 2023

Authors analyze the principles of the formation of content of historical education for the specialty 032 History and Archeology students at the bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The deployment of invasion in Ukraine became a reason for the aggravation of the problem of protecting one’s own historical and cultural heritage, national culture and historical memory. It was determined that competency-based approach to modern higher education involves the preparation of students for independent professional activity, including independent scientific and research studies. One of the aspects of the professional competence of a historian is the preservation of the historical memory of the Ukrainian people, which performs a number of functions: information, identification, value orientation, world outlook. The formation of students’ historical memory occurs during the study of a number of mandatory and optional educational components by including significant topics in the thematic plan, which may have signs of the so-called „hidden curriculum”. The authors emphasize the study of the fate and activities of outstanding personalities, in particular, the pedagogical system of the Kharkiv region in the first half of the 20-th century, ethnographic and local history material, historical narratives, meanings and symbols.
Association of Non-Genetic Risk Factors with Prostate Cancer in the Population of Jammu Region of J and K, India
Authors: Sharma Sourabh , Gupta Rahul , Raina Jyotdeep Kour , Sharma Ravi , Kumar Parvinder , Panjaliya Rakesh Kumar
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT: The rising incidence rates of prostate cancer (CAP) have become a global health disorder. Its complex aetiology includes potentially modifiable environmental factors and non-modifiable genetic components. In this study, we aimed to identify the potential and significant non-genetic risk factors associated with CAP in the population of Jammu and Kashmir. A total of 320 study subjects (120 clinically confirmed CAP patients and 200 healthy age-matched unrelated participants) were registered for this investigation after obtaining their prior consent. A predesigned health questionnaire and hospital-based patient history were used to collect data about clinical variables, sociodemographic characteristics, anthropometric parameters, and biochemical indices. The result revealed that dietary patterns (non-vegetarianism, p=0.01), lack of physical activity (p=0.0007), dwelling (urban residents, p=0.0105), higher levels of serum LDL-cholesterol (p=<0.0001), triglyceride (p=0.01), VLDL-cholesterol (p=0.02), total cholesterol (p=0.0527), creatinine (p=0.0006), sodium (p=0.0429), urea (p=0.0006), and PSA (p=<0.0001) were significantly associated with CAP. Moreover, higher mean age (69.82±15.5), the extent/duration of diabetes mellitus (DM) (p=0.0007), lack of physical activity (p=0.0007), high intake of red meat (p=0.0005), LDL-Cholesterol (p=<0.0001) and positive family history (p=<0.0001) were found to be the most significant risk factors for CAP. The study notably identified the novel (extent/duration of diabetes and serum levels of LDL, VLDL) non-genetic risk factors associated with prostate cancer in the population of the Jammu region of J&K.
Diamagnetic Zn(II) and Hg(II) Complexes with Fluconazole: Synthesis, Spectral Characterization and Biological Investigation
Authors: Keerthika P. , Balasubramaniyan S. , Govindharaju R.
Published: July 2023

In order to create new mononuclear diamagnetic complexes (M = Zn (II) and Hg (II)), fluconazole and thiocyanate ion ligands were utilized. Physicochemical and spectroscopic approaches were used to describe the synthesized metal complexes. The spectral data show that the fluconazole served as a bidentate ligand and linked to metal ions via the nitrogen of the imine group, the thiocyanate ion connected to metal ions through nitrogen. The antibacterial capacities of the strains of Candida albicans (MTCC 183) for fungi and Escherichia coli (MTCC 732) for bacteria were assessed using the disc diffusion method. The results showed that Zn (II) and Hg (II) complexes have much stronger antibacterial activity than pure ligands because of metal chelation. The complexes interactions with the stable free radical DPPH are measured. The free radical scavenging activities of the complexes and the ligand have been determined by measuring their interaction with the stable free radical DPPH. The complexes have larger antioxidant activity as compared to the ligands.
Osteosclerotic Multiple Myeloma without POEMS Syndrome – A Rare Case Report
Authors: Divakar M , Shyam Ashok , Hadgaonkar Shailesh , Sancheti Parag , Aiyer Siddharth N
Published: July 2023

Introduction:Multiple myeloma is a plasma cell neoplasm that is commonly associated with lytic bone lesions; however, osteosclerotic multiple myeloma is a rare entity. Osteosclerotic multiple myeloma has been reported in association with POEMS syndrome. Case Presentation: A 60-year-old female patient presented to us with low back pain for 2 months. The investigations revealed that the patient had multiple osteosclerotic lesions in the axial skeleton with a L4 ivory vertebra. The serum immunoelectrophoresis was negative. Positron emission tomography scan was done which showed multiple skeletal lesions in the right iliac bone, left femoral neck, thoracic vertebrae T1, T6, T12, and lumbar vertebra L4. Biopsy and immunohistochemistry of the lesion showed plasma cell proliferation; producing lambda light chains. However, there were no features of POEMS syndrome including polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, and skin changes. The patient was started on chemoradiation and achieved clinical remission and was asymptomatic at 12 months follow-up. Conclusion:Osteosclerotic myeloma without the features of POEMS syndrome is an extremely rare entity. This case reports documents a unique clinical scenario of osteosclerotic non-secretory light chain myeloma without POEMS syndrome. Keywords: Osteosclerotic myeloma, multiple myeloma, oncology, POEMS syndrome, light chain disease.
Missed Monteggia Fracture Dislocation in a 10-year-old Child – A Step-by-Step Approach to Properly Solving a Complex Problem: A Case Report
Authors: Begkas Dimitrios G , Michelarakis Ioannis N , Papamerkouriou Yvonne Mary L
Published: July 2023

Introduction:Monteggia injuries are relatively rare in the pediatric population. They can be missed leading to complications arising from a chronic radial head dislocation. There is limited information about their proper management in the literature. Thus, their treatment remains controversial. Case Report:We present a case of a 10-year-old boy who was examined in the orthopedic outpatient clinic of our hospital, due to limited range of motion of his left elbow and difficulty in extending his left thumb, after a forearm injury which occurred 9 months before and was initially treated conservatively. After appropriate imaging was obtained, a Bado type I Monteggia lesion was diagnosed. This was treated by open reduction of the head of radius, osteotomy of the ulna and lengthening using an external fixator, as well as annular ligament reconstruction by the use of synthetic tendon graft. The patient was followed up for 18 months after surgery and during his last examination showed very good clinical and functional results. Conclusion:Missed Monteggia injuries in children are complex problems warranting a step-by-step approach. Their management with ulnar osteotomy, bone lengthening, and reconstruction of the annular ligament presents a viable option with excellent clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes. Keywords:Children, dislocation, external fixation, Monteggia fracture, osteotomy, ulna.
Knee Osteoarthritis with Old Untreated Patella Fracture Treated with Single Stage Total Knee Arthroplasty – A Case Series of Two Cases
Authors: Rao Srisanat Srinivasan , Sonawane Chandrashekhar Sahebrao , Wakankar Hemant Madhukar , Kulkarni Mahesh Madhukar
Published: July 2023

Introduction:Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is one of the most successful procedures for osteoarthritis (OA), but when associated with an old patella fracture, the knee arthroplasty becomes complex due to discontinuity in extensor mechanism. Moreover, in elderly patients, early mobilization and avoiding multiple surgeries are important to prevent associated morbidity. This is the first instance of a case series being reported where an untreated patella fracture >3-months-old with knee OA has been managed with single stage TKA. Case Report:Two patients, both with OA of knee and untreated patellar fractures, presented to us with knee pain. A 74-year-old lady having 6-months-old untreated right patella fracture without extensor lag was our first patient and a 57-years-old lady having 2-years-old patella fracture non-union with extensor lag of 30° was our second patient. Both were assessed and a decision to perform total knee replacement was taken. Patient with extensor lag required reconstruction of the extensor mechanism whereas the one without extensor lag was treated as a normal routine total knee replacement. Conclusion: Elderly patients with untreated patella fracture and degenerative knee OA can be considered for single stage TKA, with decision on patella management based on the presence or absence of extensor lag. Rehabilitation is faster with single surgery and also there are decreased risks and complications associated with multiple surgeries. Keywords: Untreated patella fracture with knee OA, single stage TKA, TKA in extensor lag
Widefield wavefront sensor for multidirectional peripheral retinal scanning
Authors: Pusti Dibyendu , Degre Kendrick Chloe , Wu Yifei , Ji Qiuzhi , Jung Hae Won , Yoon Geunyoung
Published: July 2023

The quantitative evaluation of peripheral ocular optics is essential in both myopia research and the investigation of visual performance in people with normal and compromised central vision. We have developed a widefield scanning wavefront sensor (WSWS) capable of multidirectional scanning while maintaining natural central fixation at the primary gaze. This Shack-Hartmann-based WSWS scans along any retinal meridian by using a unique scanning method that involves the concurrent operation of a motorized rotary stage (horizontal scan) and a goniometer (vertical scan). To showcase the capability of the WSWS, we tested scanning along four meridians including a 60° horizontal, 36° vertical, and two 36° diagonal scans, each completed within a time frame of 5 seconds.
Extended and adjustable field-of-view of variable interscan time analysis by ammonite-scanning swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Mino Toshihiro , Moriguchi Yoshikiyo , Tamura Masato , Matsumoto Akiko , Kubota Atsushi , Akiba Masahiro , Hwang Yunchan , Makita Shuichi , Yasuno Yoshiaki , Enaida Hiroshi , Fujimoto James G. , Wang Zhenguo
Published: July 2023

A novel scanning protocol, ammonite scan, is proposed for widefield optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and relative retinal blood flow velocity imaging in the human retina using variable interscan time analysis (VISTA). A repeated circle scan using a 400 kHz swept-source was employed to achieve an interscan time of 1.28 ms. The center of the repeated circular scan continuously moved spirally towards the peripheral region, ensuring an extended and adjustable scan range while preserving the short interscan time. Image artifacts due to eye movement were eliminated via extra motion-correction processing using data redundancy. The relative blood flow velocity in superficial and deep plexus layers was calculated from the VISTA image, and their ratio was used to explore the microvascular flow parameter in the healthy human eye.
Super-broadband terahertz absorber: an optimized and magnetized graphene-embedded 1D disordered photonic system
Authors: Mahesh Pulimi , Panigrahy Damodar , Nayak Chittaranjan
Published: July 2023

In this study, a broadband terahertz absorber was designed and numerically demonstrated. The optical features were computed using 4×4 transfer matrix formalism. The broadband absorption is attained by optimizing the Fermi levels of graphene, the magnetic field, and the thickness of the dielectric layers using the differential evolution algorithm. The results demonstrated that the WMF-optimized scenario offered greater than 90% absorption over a bandwidth of 4.18 THz, and the WoMF&SL scenario provided the shortest bandwidth of 0.89 THz. These findings reveal the significance of the spacer layer to achieve broad absorption. Moreover, the absorption band is tailored to the required spectral range by careful choice of the structural and electrical parameters of the spacer layer; changing the refractive index to 1.2 offers a bandwidth of 4.42 THz and altering the thickness to 12 µm provides a bandwidth of 5.5 THz. The broadband absorption was attained due to the impedance matching provided by the optimized structure over a wide spectral range. Furthermore, the average absorption and bandwidth were enhanced, while fluctuations in the selected absorption band were minimized by engineering the magnetic biasing. The reported super-broadband absorber offers numerous applications in terahertz imaging, terahertz communications, and photodetectors.
A comprehensive wireless neurological and cardiopulmonary monitoring platform for pediatrics
Authors: Wong Jeremy N. , Walter Jessica R. , Conrad Erin C. , Seshadri Dhruv R. , Lee Jong Yoon , Gonzalez Husein , Reuther William , Hong Sue J. , Pini Nicolò , Marsillio Lauren , Moskalyk Khrystyna , Vicenteno Mariana , Padilla Erik , Gann Olivia , Chung Ha Uk , Ryu Dennis , du Plessis Carlie , Odendaal Hein J. , Fifer William P. , Wu Joyce Y. , Xu Shuai
Published: July 2023

Neurodevelopment in the first 10 years of life is a critical time window during which milestones that define an individual’s functional potential are achieved. Comprehensive multimodal neurodevelopmental monitoring is particularly crucial for socioeconomically disadvantaged, marginalized, historically underserved and underrepresented communities as well as medically underserved areas. Solutions designed for use outside the traditional clinical environment represent an opportunity for addressing such health inequalities. In this work, we present an experimental platform, ANNE EEG, which adds 16-channel cerebral activity monitoring to the existing, USA FDA-cleared ANNE wireless monitoring platform which provides continuous electrocardiography, respiratory rate, pulse oximetry, motion, and temperature measurements. The system features low-cost consumables, real-time control and streaming with widely available mobile devices, and fully wearable operation to allow a child to remain in their naturalistic environment. This multi-center pilot study successfully collected ANNE EEG recordings from 91 neonatal and pediatric patients at academic quaternary pediatric care centers and in LMIC settings. We demonstrate the practicality and feasibility to conduct electroencephalography studies with high levels of accuracy, validated via both quantitative and qualitative metrics, compared against gold standard systems. An overwhelming majority of parents surveyed during studies indicated not only an overall preference for the wireless system, but also that its use would improve their children’s physical and emotional health. Our findings demonstrate the potential for the ANNE system to perform multimodal monitoring to screen for a variety of neurologic diseases that have the potential to negatively impact neurodevelopment.
Characterizing the landscape of gene expression variance in humans
Authors: Wolf Scott , Melo Diogo , Garske Kristina M. , Pallares Luisa F. , Lea Amanda J. , Ayroles Julien F.
Published: July 2023

Gene expression variance has been linked to organismal function and fitness but remains a commonly neglected aspect of molecular research. As a result, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the patterns of transcriptional variance across genes, and how this variance is linked to context-specific gene regulation and gene function. Here, we use 57 large publicly available RNA-seq data sets to investigate the landscape of gene expression variance. These studies cover a wide range of tissues and allowed us to assess if there are consistently more or less variable genes across tissues and data sets and what mechanisms drive these patterns. We show that gene expression variance is broadly similar across tissues and studies, indicating that the pattern of transcriptional variance is consistent. We use this similarity to create both global and within-tissue rankings of variation, which we use to show that function, sequence variation, and gene regulatory signatures contribute to gene expression variance. Low-variance genes are associated with fundamental cell processes and have lower levels of genetic polymorphisms, have higher gene-gene connectivity, and tend to be associated with chromatin states associated with transcription. In contrast, high-variance genes are enriched for genes involved in immune response, environmentally responsive genes, immediate early genes, and are associated with higher levels of polymorphisms. These results show that the pattern of transcriptional variance is not noise. Instead, it is a consistent gene trait that seems to be functionally constrained in human populations. Furthermore, this commonly neglected aspect of molecular phenotypic variation harbors important information to understand complex traits and disease.
Cardiometabolic risk among rural Native American adults in a large multilevel multicomponent intervention trial
Authors: Redmond Leslie C. , Estradé Michelle , Treuth Margarita S. , Wensel Caroline R. , Poirier Lisa , Pardilla Marla , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: July 2023

This cross-sectional analysis of the baseline evaluation sample of the Obesity Prevention and Evaluation of InterVention Effectiveness in Native Americans 2 (OPREVENT2) study included 601 Native American adults ages 18–75 living in rural reservation communities in the Midwest and Southwest United States. Participants completed a self-report questionnaire for individual and family history of hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and obestiy. Body mass index (BMI), percent body fat, and blood pressure were measured by trained research staff. About 60% of respondents had a BMI >30 kg/m2. Approximately 80% had a waist-to-hip ratio and percent body fat classified as high risk, and nearly 64% had a high-risk blood pressure measurement. Although a large proportion of participants reported a family history of chronic disease and had measurements that indicated elevated risk, relatively few had a self-reported diagnosis of any chronic disease. Future studies should examine potential connections between healthcare access and discordance in self-reported versus measured disease risks and diagnoses.