bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Destabilization of mRNAs enhances competence to initiate meiosis in mouse spermatogenic cells
Authors: Pfaltzgraff Natalie G. , Liu Bingrun , de Rooij Dirk G. , Page David C. , Mikedis Maria M.
Published: June 2024

The specialized cell cycle of meiosis transforms diploid germ cells into haploid gametes. In mammals, diploid spermatogenic cells acquire the competence to initiate meiosis in response to retinoic acid. Previous mouse studies revealed that MEIOC interacts with RNA-binding proteins YTHDC2 and RBM46 to repress mitotic genes and to promote robust meiotic gene expression in spermatogenic cells that have initiated meiosis. Here, we have used the enhanced resolution of scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq of developmentally synchronized spermatogenesis to define how MEIOC molecularly supports early meiosis in spermatogenic cells. We demonstrate that MEIOC mediates transcriptomic changes before meiotic initiation, earlier than previously appreciated. MEIOC, acting with YTHDC2 and RBM46, destabilizes its mRNA targets, including the transcriptional repressors E2f6 and Mga, in mitotic spermatogonia. MEIOC thereby derepresses E2F6- and MGA-repressed genes, including Meiosin and other meiosis-associated genes. This confers on spermatogenic cells the molecular competence to, in response to retinoic acid, fully activate the transcriptional regulator STRA8-MEIOSIN, which is required for the meiotic G1/S phase transition and for meiotic gene expression. We conclude that, in mice, mRNA decay mediated by MEIOC-YTHDC2-RBM46 enhances the competence of spermatogenic cells to initiate meiosis.
Computational identification of disease models through cross-species phenotype comparison
Authors: Cacheiro Pilar , Pava Diego , Parkinson Helen , VanZanten Maya , Wilson Robert , Gunes Osman , the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium  , Smedley Damian
Published: June 2024

The use of standardised phenotyping screens to identify abnormal phenotypes in mouse knockouts, together with the use of ontologies to describe such phenotypic features, allows the implementation of an automated and unbiased pipeline to identify new models of disease by performing phenotype comparisons across species. Using data from the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium (IMPC), approximately half of mouse mutants are able to mimic, at least partially, the human ortholog disease phenotypes as computed by the PhenoDigm algorithm. We found the number of phenotypic abnormalities in the mouse and the corresponding Mendelian disorder, the pleiotropy and severity of the disease, and the viability and zygosity status of the mouse knockout to be associated with the ability of mouse models to recapitulate the human disorder. An analysis of the IMPC impact on disease gene discovery through a publication-tracking system revealed that the resource has been implicated in at least 109 validated rare disease–gene associations over the last decade.
The impact of the EU climate policy on its neighbourhood
Authors: Καμινιάρης-Κοντόσταυλος Όθων-Αλέξανδρος
Published: June 2024

Η παρούσα διατριβή ασχολείται με την εξωτερική δράση της ΕΕ στους τομείς της κλιματικής αλλαγής και της ενέργειας, εστιάζοντας στις σχέσεις της με τα κράτη της ΕΠΓ. Εξετάζει, συγκεκριμένα, τις διασυνδέσεις μεταξύ δύο φιλοδοξιών της ΕΕ, του να αποτελεί το παράδειγμα στα κλιματικά ζητήματα διεθνώς και του να διαμορφώσει τον κύκλο των κρατών πέριξ της. Με άλλα λόγια, το εάν η ΕΕ ενεργεί ως ηγέτης στην κλιματική αλλαγή στην περιφέρειά της και προς τις δεκαέξι χώρες της ΕΠΓ. Ειδικά μετά την Ευρωπαϊκή Πράσινη Συμφωνία και τα πακέτα Fit for 55 και REPowerEU, η αλληλεπίδραση μεταξύ των εσωτερικών και εξωτερικών πτυχών της κλιματικής πολιτικής της Ένωσης καθώς και μεταξύ αυτών και των εταίρων της (π.χ. μέσω του CBAM που θα εφαρμοστεί) έχει γίνει σταδιακά όλο και πιο σημαντική. Η διατριβή διαπιστώνει ότι, παρά το γεγονός πως η ΕΠΓ επινοήθηκε ως πολιτική για να εξυπηρετήσει συγκεκριμένα συμφέροντα, όπως ο εκδημοκρατισμός και η σταθεροποίηση των εταίρων της ΕΕ, τα ζητήματα του κλίματος και της ενέργειας ενσωματώθηκαν στο οικοδόμημα της ΕΠΓ σχετικά νωρίς. Μάλιστα, αυτό έγινε σε αμφότερες της συνιστώσες της, την Ένωση για τη Μεσόγειο και την Ανατολική Εταιρική Σχέση. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, μπορούν να διακριθούν τρεις φάσεις, οι οποίες συμπίπτουν με τη δημιουργία, την εξέλιξη και την εδραίωση της πολιτικής της ΕΕ για την κλιματική αλλαγή, παρουσιάζοντας έτσι μια σταδιακά αυξανόμενη κλίση προς τα πράσινα θέματα. Επιπλέον, διαπιστώνεται ότι στη σχέση της με τα κράτη της ΕΠΓ, η ΕΕ δρα με τρεις διαφορετικούς τρόπους: ως εξαγωγός των δικών της κανόνων και στρατηγικών για το κλίμα και την ενέργεια, ως διαμεσολαβητής μεταξύ των δεκαέξι εταίρων της και του διεθνούς καθεστώτος για την κλιματική αλλαγή ή/και ως «συνεργός» σε ανύπαρκτους στόχους για το κλίμα και την ενέργεια ή σε άλλους χαμηλής φιλοδοξίας. Το τελευταίο παρατηρείται ιδιαίτερα σε περιπτώσεις κρατών που διαδραματίζουν (σημαντικό) ρόλο στην επίτευξη των συμφερόντων της ΕΕ για την ενεργειακή της ασφάλεια. Επιπρόσθετα, η ΕΕ χρησιμοποιεί όλα τα μέσα και τους μηχανισμούς που διαθέτει στο οπλοστάσιο για την εξωτερική της δράση με τη μορφή πλέγματος σε αμφότερες τις περιοχές ενδιαφέροντος. Ωστόσο, ορισμένα από τα παραδοσιακά εργαλεία της ΕΠΓ που χρησιμοποιούνται ευρέως σε άλλους τομείς πολιτικής δεν χρησιμοποιούνται σε αυτήν την περίπτωση. Αντίθετα, δίνεται ιδιαίτερη έμφαση στο πιο αποτελεσματικό εργαλείο, αυτό της αιρεσιμότητας. Τούτο επιβεβαιώνει το γεγονός πως η ΕΕ καθοδηγείται κυρίως από τα συμφέροντά της στη σχέση της με τα κράτη της ΕΠΓ στους τομείς του κλίματος και της ενέργειας και ότι, ταυτόχρονα, προσπαθεί να επηρεάσει τους υπολογισμούς κόστους-οφέλους τους, δίνοντας λιγότερη σημασία σε ζητήματα νομιμοποίησης. Αυτό έχει φέρει ανάμεικτα αποτελέσματα μέχρι στιγμής, τα οποία εξαρτώνται τόσο από το τι έχει να προσφέρει η ΕΕ όσο και από τις φιλοδοξίες του κάθε εταίρου. Έτσι, συνολικά, η αποτελεσματικότητα της δράσης της ΕΕ στους συγκεκριμένους τομείς μπορεί να αξιολογηθεί ως μέτρια.
Βελτιωμένα διαγράμματα ελέγχου για την παρακολούθηση γενικευμένα διογκωμένων διεργασιών
Authors: Μαμζερίδου Ευτυχία
Published: June 2024

Στην παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή παρουσιάζονται διαγράμματα ελέγχου ιδιοτήτων για την παρακολούθηση γενικευμένα διογκωμένων διεργασιών, ώστε να αντιμετωπιστεί ο χαμηλός ρυθμός εμφάνισης ελαττωματικών αντικειμένων και η υπερμεταβλητότητα στις υψηλού επιπέδου διεργασίες τέτοιου είδους. Αρχικά μελετώνται δύο συνθετικά διαγράμματα ελέγχου τα οποία είναι κατάλληλα για την παρακολούθηση γενικά διογκωμένων (GIPr) και μηδενοδιογκωμένων (ZIP) διεργασιών Poisson, και ιδιαίτερα στην ανίχνευση αυξήσεων στο μέσο επίπεδο της διεργασίας. Στη συνέχεια προτείνονται και μελετώνται δίπλευρα διαγράμματα ελέγχου για την παρακολούθηση μηδενοδιογκωμένων ή γενικά διογκωμένων διεργασιών Poisson, στα οποία χρησιμοποιούνται συμπληρωματικοί κανόνες ροών, ώστε να αυξηθεί η ευαισθησία του διαγράμματος τύπου Shewhart στην ανίχνευση μετατοπίσεων στις παραμέτρους της διεργασίας. Στα διαγράμματα αυτά εφαρμόζονται δύο κανόνες για την ανίχνευση αυξήσεων και ένας κανόνας για την ανίχνευση μειώσεων στο μέσο επίπεδο της διεργασίας. Τέλος, μελετάται η απόδοση ενός άνω μονόπλευρου διαγράμματος ελέγχου τύπου Shewhart για μηδενοδιογκωμένες διεργασίες (ZIP), όταν οι εντός ελέγχου τιμές των παραμέτρων της διεργασίας είναι άγνωστες και πρέπει να εκτιμηθούν, μια και υπάρχει σημαντική διαφοροποίηση μεταξύ της θεωρητικής και της πραγματικής απόδοσης ενός διαγράμματος ελέγχου, όπου στην πρώτη θεωρούμε τις τιμές των παραμέτρων της διεργασίας γνωστές, ενώ στη δεύτερη οι τιμές αυτές είναι άγνωστες και έχουν εκτιμηθεί. Επιπλέον, είναι πολύ πιο ρεαλιστική η υπόθεση να μην είναι γνωστές και οι δύο παράμετροι της διεργασίας. Από τη σχετική βιβλιογραφική επισκόπηση προέκυψε πως τα διαγράμματα που μελετήθηκαν στην παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή δεν είχαν μελετηθεί έως τώρα. Επιπλέον, τα αριθμητικά αποτελέσματα έδειξαν ότι μπορούν να αποτελέσουν αξιόπιστες εναλλακτικές μεθόδους στατιστικής παρακολούθησης γενικά διογκωμένων διεργασιών με αξιοσημείωτη ικανότητα ανίχνευσης πληθώρας εκτός ελέγχου καταστάσεων. Για όλα τα παραπάνω διαγράμματα παρουσιάζεται αναλυτικά ο στατιστικός σχεδιασμός τους, με προτεινόμενους κανόνες για τον προσδιορισμό των τιμών των παραμέτρων τους, ο τρόπος λειτουργίας τους και οι πρακτικές εφαρμογές τους σε πραγματικά προβλήματα από τη βιομηχανία και τη δημόσια υγεία.
A compilation of histidine kinase genes in the genome of a tissue macerating Pectobacterium brasiliense isolated from potato in South Africa
Authors: Otun Sarah Oluwatobi , Ntushelo Khayalethu
Published: June 2024

Background A compilation of kinase genes of Pectobacterium brasilense is presented. The genes were mined from a complete genome sequence of strain BD163 isolated from potato in Tshwane, South Africa. This work is an effort to collate knowledge on P. brasiliense which has become a worldwide pathogen of potatoes and other vegetables such as tomato. Histidine kinases of P. brasiliense can be targets of bacterial control agents to limit the growth, spread and pathogenicity of P. brasiliense. Methods The whole genome sequence of strain BD163 of P. brasiliense deposited on www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov was downloaded, and individual kinase genes were searched and listed with their properties, namely, locus tag, protein accession number and annotation. Conclusions This is the only compilation of histidine kinase genes for P. brasiliense.
Bronchodilator effect of oral doxofylline and procaterol in asthma: A randomized crossover study
Authors: Noomon Natthapon , Saiphoklang Narongkorn , Patanayindee Pimchanok , Tirakitpanich Kritti , Ruchiwit Pitchayapa , Poachanukoon Orapan
Published: June 2024

Background Oral bronchodilators may be used as an adjunctive treatment, especially in patients with uncontrolled asthma or poor inhaler technique. This study aimed to determine the differences in asthma symptoms and bronchodilator effect between oral doxofylline and oral procaterol in adults with asthma. Methods A crossover randomized controlled trial was conducted. Asthmatic patients aged 18 years or older with stable inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta2-agonists (ICS/LABA) treatment were included. Each patient received 2 weeks of treatment with either doxofylline or procaterol followed by a 1-week washout period and 2 weeks of treatment with the other drug. Asthma symptoms were assessed using the Asthma Control Questionnaire-5 (ACQ-5) scores, pulmonary function was assessed by spirometry with bronchodilator testing, and adverse events were recorded. Results A total of 21 patients were randomly allocated to either the doxofylline or procaterol groups. The mean age of the patients was 53.0±14.8 years. ACQ-5 scores were 1.4±1.1. After two weeks of treatment, the ACQ-5 scores and all pulmonary function parameters were not significantly different between the two groups (P>0.05). However, significant improvements in ACQ-5 scores were found in both groups (mean change: -0.381± 0.740, P=0.029 and -0.476± 0.873, P=0.021 for the doxofylline and procaterol groups, respectively). None of the patients experienced asthma exacerbations. Conclusions Doxofylline and procaterol can improve asthma symptoms, although they cannot enhance lung function. These oral bronchodilators might be used as an add-on therapy in asthmatic patients with persistent symptoms despite treatment with an ICS/LABA combination.
Kadukkai maathirai (Indian herbal drug) prevents hepatocellular cancer progression by enhancing GSTM1 expression and modulating β catenin transcription: in-silico and in-vivo study
Authors: Shetty Manjunath , Shenoy Smita , Amuthan Arul , Devi Vasudha , Kumar Nitesh , Kiran Amruth , Shenoy Ganesh , Chinta Diya Rajasekhar , Prasada K Shama , Shetty Akshatha , Rao K G Mohandas
Published: June 2024

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy with poor clinical outcomes. Hence cost-effective drugs with fewer side effects as a standard supportive therapy might yield substantial advantages in efficacy and safety. Kadukkai maathirai (KM) is being used as a supplement in hepatocellular carcinoma. We evaluated whether KM has any preventive action on cancer progression in diethyl nitrosamine (DEN) - induced HCC in rats. Methods DEN was injected to produce HCC in rats, which was confirmed after 16 weeks. All the rats were orally administered KM for 4 weeks. Hepatoprotective potential (serum AST, ALT, ALP, Bilirubin) and anticancer efficacy (body weight, nodule count, tumor progression by histopathology, expression of GSTM1 by Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and In-silico analysis of phytoconstituents against β catenin and LRP analysis were evaluated. Results KM prevented cancer progression against DEN-induced HCC by an increase in GSTM1, a phase II detoxifying enzyme. It significantly reversed altered nodule count, relative liver weight, body weight, and histopathological features of HCC. In silico analysis of phytoconstituents of KM showed that they modulate the intracellular transcription process by inhibiting the armadillo repeat region of β catenin. Conclusions Our results elucidate the potential of KM as a supplement in HCC by reducing nodule count, protecting the liver from further damage, GSTM1 expression, and inhibiting armadillo repeat region of β catenin.
Physio-Psychosocial Risks of Depression among College-Going Adolescents in Bangladesh: A Data Note
Authors: Siddik Md Abu Bakkar , Hasan Nafiul , Mahmud Al , Ali Akher , Syfullah Md Khalid , Rahman Md. Jamilur , Kamil Anton Abdulbasah , Rahman Mohammad Meshbahur
Published: June 2024

Background The prevalence of depression among adolescents is an increasing global problem, including in Bangladesh as well. This cross-sectional data was collected to examine the physiological and psychological risk factors for depression among college-going adolescents in Bangladesh. Methodology Simple random sampling was employed as a sampling technique during the study period from May 2022 to August 2022. In the survey, a total of 1919 college-going adolescents were included through a Google-based questionnaire platform. The survey included socio-demographic characteristics and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) questions. Before starting the survey, the questionnaire was translated and pre-tested in Bengali. To assess the dataset's feasibility and effectiveness, the pre-testing was done with a total of 43 adolescents. The questionnaire was revised several times before the final study to ensure it satisfied all standards. Conclusion This dataset may be valuable for researchers investigating the relationship between academic performance, psychological well-being, and other socio-demographic characteristics. To get a deeper understanding of the broader framework, policymakers may find it advantageous to enact policies that are specifically tailored to meet the needs and preferences of adolescents
Kinematic characteristics analysis of highly difficult movements "324C+1D" of the first level Wushu athletes
Authors: Guo Xikui , Choosakul Chairat
Published: June 2024

Background "324C+1D” movements are key techniques and winning factors in Wushu competitions. It is necessary for scientific training to analyze the kinematic characteristics of “324C+1D” by using the method of sports biomechanics. Methods In this study, 3D high-speed camera and 3D motion analysis software were used to study “324C+1D” completed by three Chinese wushu first-level athletes, and the kinematic characteristics of this movement were obtained. Results The run-up speed of completing the “324C+1D” is not high; The lift Angle of the center of gravity is close to 90°. The vertical height of the center of gravity is significantly higher than the vertical height of the center of gravity when landing, and the vertical moving distance of the center of gravity in the lifting stage is significantly less than the vertical moving distance of the center of gravity in the descending stage. The vertical height of the center of gravity at departure is significantly higher than that at landing. Conclusions In the take-off stage, increase the twisting Angle of shoulders and hips, speed up the swing arm speed and squat speed of the center of gravity in the vertical direction, and shorten the take-off time. Increase the vertical speed of the center of gravity before the patting foot and the vertical moving distance between the center of gravity lifting stage and the descending stage, extend the air time, accelerate the swing speed of the right leg, move the foot patting time forward to the rapid rising stage of the center of gravity lifting, accelerate the rotational angular speed of the shoulder shaft in the air stage and improve the strength of the leg, which is conducive to the athletes to complete the movement.
Psychological interventions for early-phase schizophrenia: protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Feber Lena , Salanti Georgia , Harrer Mathias , Salahuddin Nurul Husna , Hansen Wulf-Peter , Priller Josef , Bighelli Irene , Leucht Stefan
Published: June 2024

Introduction Treating the early phase of schizophrenia is crucial for preventing further episodes and improving quality of life, functioning, and social inclusion. Pharmacotherapies are first-line treatments, but have limitations. There is consensus on the need for non-pharmacological interventions for individuals in the early phase of schizophrenia. Several psychological interventions have shown promising effects; however, their comparative effectiveness remains largely unknown. To address this issue, a network meta-analysis will be performed. We aim to develop a hierarchy of existing psychological treatments concerning their efficacy and tolerability, which will inform treatment guidelines. Protocol Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating psychological interventions for first-episode psychosis, first-episode schizophrenia, or early phase schizophrenia will be included. The primary outcome will be overall schizophrenia symptoms (measured up to 6 and 12 months, and at the longest follow-up) and relapse as a co-primary outcome. Secondary outcomes are premature discontinuation; change in positive, negative, and depressive symptoms of schizophrenia; response; quality of life; overall functioning; satisfaction with care; adherence; adverse events; and mortality. The study selection and data extraction are performed by two independent reviewers. We will assess the risk of bias of each study using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2 and evaluate the confidence in the results using Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses will be conducted to explore heterogeneity and assess the robustness of our findings. Discussion This systematic review and network meta-analysis aims to compare multiple existing psychological interventions, establishing which are best for symptom reduction, relapse prevention, and other important outcomes in early phase schizophrenia. Our results may provide practical guidance concerning the most effective psychological intervention to reduce symptom severity and the societal burden associated with the disorder.
Wpływ marynowania mięsa wieprzowego z wykorzystaniem fermentowanych niepasteryzowanych octów na jego właściwości reologiczne
Authors: Dykiel Magdalena , Uram-Dudek Angelika , Wajs Iwona
Published: June 2024

Konsumenci domagają się mięsa i produktów mięsnych z naturalnymi składnikami, które gwarantują wysoką jakość żywności, a im samym zapewnią zdrowie. Celem podjętych badań było określenie wpływu marynaty z wykorzystaniem niepasteryzowanych octów i octu spirytusowego na właściwości reologiczne mięsa wieprzowego. Surowcem do badań było mięso wieprzowe – karkówka. Karkówkę podzielono na pięć porcji, z czego jedna stanowiła próbę kontrolną (bez octu), a pozostałe cztery marynowano octem: I – spirytusowym (pH 2,83), niepasteryzowanym octem: II – jabłkowym (pH 3,24), III – gruszkowym (pH 3,72), IV – malinowym (pH 3,01).Próbki oceniono pod kątem właściwości reologicznych. Wyniki niniejszego badania pokazują, że stosowanie octu w marynowaniu karkówki wieprzowej wpływa nacechy reologiczne mięsa, przy czym wpływ ten zależy od rodzaju użytego octu. Wykazano, że marynowanie z wykorzystaniem fermentowanych niepasteryzowanych octów miało znaczący (p < 0,05) wpływ na adhezyjność, odbojność i żylastość, ale nie na ich twardość, sprężystość, żujność oraz gumowatość (p > 0,05), co pokazało porównanie z próbkami kontrolnymi. Proces marynowania mięsa wieprzowego octem malinowym wpłynął istotnie na zwiększenie takich cech mięsa jak twardość, gumowatość i adhezyjność, co pokazało porównanie z próbkami kontrolnymi. Marynowanie octem gruszkowym wpłynęło na zmniejszenie odbojności, zaś zabieg marynowania octem jabłkowym miał istotny wpływ na adhezyjność, odbojność i żylastość, co pokazało porównanie z próbkami kontrolnymi. Proces marynowania przy użyciu octu spirytusowego, jabłkowego, gruszkowego oraz malinowego wpłynął na zmniejszenie odbojności mięsa, co pokazało porównanie z próbkami z grupy kontrolnej. Konieczne jest stałe analizowanie i badanie tekstury żywności, gdyż jest to ważna cecha, która wpływa na to, czy dany produkt spożywczy jest akceptowany, czy odrzucany przez konsumenta.
Lecznicze właściwości Cynara scolymus? Krytyczny przegląd dowodów i molekularnych mechanizmów działania
Authors: Zadworny Jan
Published: June 2024

Karczoch zwyczajny (Cynara scolymus) jest znany za sprawą dużej zawartości aktywnych biologicznie metabolitów: polifenoli oraz terpenoidów. Przypisuje im się  działanie hipolipidemiczne, antydyspeptyczne, hepatoprotekcyjne oraz antyoksydacyjne. Mimo to liczba dobrej jakości badań klinicznych dokumentujących działanie lecznicze karczocha i ekstraktu z jego liści (ELK) jest stosunkowo niewielka. Zgromadzone w nich dowody zdają się potwierdzać pozytywny wpływ ELK w hipercholesterolemii i dyspepsji czynnościowej. Sugerują też możliwy efekt terapeutyczny u chorych na niealkoholowe stłuszczeniowe zapalenie wątroby i zespół jelita drażliwego. We wszystkich tych przypadkach potrzebne są dalsze rygorystyczne badania kliniczne, które pozwolą skwantykować obserwowane efekty i dawki ELK  konieczne do ich wywołania. Dowody zdają się wykluczać jakiekolwiek działanie ELK w leczeniu wirusowego zapalenia wątroby typu C oraz kaca alkoholowego.
Thyroid disfunction and obesity - what comes first? A complex relationship between hypothyroidism and weight gain
Authors: Gajdzińska Natalia , Salwa Adam , Rostkowska Weronika , Rutkowski Wojciech , Sztuba Karolina , Rzepka Maciej , Basiura Karolina , Rymaszewska Katarzyna , Puchała Justyna , Starzomska Dominika
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Obesity and mild thyroid failure are common diseases, and the complex relationship between thyroid function and excess weight gain is still being researched. This study analyzes and summarizes the current scientific reports on the intricate correlation between thyroid dysfunction and obesity.
 
Material and methods: We have gathered the available materials and scientific reports, analyzing and summarizing them in a single study.
 
Aim of study: We aimed to summarize the studies conducted so far by analyzing the available scientific reports to answer the question of ‘what comes first’ and to understand the correlation between thyroid dysfunction and excessive weight gain.
 
Discussion: Thyroid dysfunction in the form of hypothyroidism is associated with metabolic abnormalities, which may play a crucial role in the development of metabolic syndrome. On the other hand, excess level of leptin associated with excess adipose tissue is a potential cause of disruptions in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, manifested as elevated TSH levels. Therefore, it is worth considering certain aspects regarding the inclusion of hormone replacement therapy in obese patients presenting laboratory features of subclinical hypothyroidism.
 
Conclusion. Obesity-induced thyroid dysfunction is typically reversible with weight loss and hormone replacement therapy should be considered for obese patients with subclinical hypothyroidism only if thyroid antibodies are present to confirm an autoimmune thyroid disorder.
Cine, muerte y estados alterados de conciencia: entre el deseo y el reflejo
Authors: Pinto Bustamante Boris Julián , Enciso Olivera César Orlando , Gómez Torres Ana María , Quintero Consuegra Miguel David
Published: June 2024

Este capítulo aborda los conceptos médicos y las controversias bioéticas y filosóficas en torno a los estados alterados de conciencia, como son el síndrome de vigilia sin respuesta, el estado de mínima conciencia y la muerte encefálica. El texto recurre a películas que exploran estas tensiones bioéticas, así como se revisan posturas filosóficas que problematizan la infalibilidad de los criterios clínicos de muerte encefálica y la reducción de categorías como «muerte», «morir» «subjetividad» y «conciencia» a variables técnicas. Se revisan las implicaciones prácticas de cada perspectiva, entre ellas, la vulnerabilidad de las personas afectadas.
Análisis de los depósitos de colas y estériles por minería de oro en Colombia
Authors: Vargas C. Héctor Raúl , Vargas C. Germán
Published: June 2024

La minería en Colombia, particularmente la del oro como metal precioso y mitológico de culturas ancestrales, ha venido realizándose desde antes de la Colonia, principalmente de forma artesanal y a pequeña escala. Al volverse esta actividad un recurso importante para la economía del país, que registra un aporte de 4,75 de pib (MinMinas, 2019) y los altos precios de los comodites, y el hecho de que Colombia sea aún un país inexplorado, ha invitado y atraído por parte del Gobierno Nacional a la inversión extranjera y nacional para la implementación de proyectos mineros de pequeña, mediana y gran escala. De un total de 3762 títulos mineros en Colombia, 442 corresponden a oro y metales preciosos (Agencia Nacional Minera, 2020). Ante estos panoramas, la actividad minera ha impactado diferencialmente a la comunidad nacional bajo dos puntos de vista: por una parte, como una necesidad económica por el aporte de insumos y del ingreso tributario de las regalías a los municipios y, por otra parte, como innecesaria y perjudicial para el medio ambiente y la sociedad. En este capítulo se realiza un análisis de la minería del oro en Colombia tomando como eje central, el manejo de los depósitos de colas o estériles dejados por la actividad minera pasada, actual y potencial de explotaciones futuras de proyectos a gran escala, valorando ejemplos de actividades y proyectos mineros a diferentes escalas en Colombia y técnicas y métodos de manejo sostenible de la actividad en otros países.
La Ley 1437 de 2011: ¿constitucionalización del derecho administrativo o administrativización del derecho constitucional?
Authors: Namén Vargas Álvaro
Published: June 2024

Justamente, el presente capítulo aborda una temática que ha sido objeto de interés y discusión por parte del profesor Betancur. Me refiero al Código de Procedimiento Administrativo y de lo Contencioso Administrativo, el cual se estudia en esta oportunidad desde la órbita del fenómeno de la constitucionalización del derecho. Con este propósito, el texto se divide en dos partes principales. En la primera, se exponen algunas consideraciones relativas a la constitucionalización del derecho. En la segunda, se identifican las manifestaciones más importantes de dicho fenómeno en la Ley 1437 de 2011.
Perspectiva sobre el alcance de las facultades de las superintendencias
Authors: Mesa Zuleta María Luisa
Published: June 2024

El presente escrito reseña el desarrollo histórico de las superintendencias, sus facultades y varios de los pronunciamientos jurisprudenciales que han contribuido a la interpretación de las normas sobre la materia y que, en alguna medida, han ilustrado la adopción de algunas disposiciones para precisar el alcance de dichas facultades.
¿Cuánto cuesta el cambio climático?
Authors: Gutiérrez Bayona Adriana
Published: June 2024

El cambio climático es un tema que siempre ha sido relacionado con el medio ambiente, pero se trata de un fenómeno más transversal, que afecta el funcionamiento de nuestra sociedad. Y aunque muchos ya hablan de ello como parte importante para el crecimiento económico y la estabilidad de nuestro planeta, aún hay individuos que no creen, otros que temen enfrentarlo y algunos que lo ignoran porque es muy costoso responder al reto, y unos más que son una especie de mezcla de los tres casos anteriores. Ya que este capítulo asume la veracidad de la existencia del cambio climático, los argumentos se centrarán en los costos de adaptarse a lo que ya no podemos detener, y de mitigar los posibles efectos que vendrán si seguimos en una economía basada en combustibles fósiles.
FOREFOOT MORPHOTYPES IN CAVOVARUS FEET: A NOVEL CLASSIFICATION
Authors: Malhotra K. , Patel S. , Cullen N. , Welck M.
Published: June 2024

Background

The cavovarus foot is a complex 3-dimensional deformity. Although a multitude of techniques are described for its surgical management, few of these are evidence based or guided by classification systems. Surgical management involves realignment of the hindfoot and soft tissue balancing, followed by forefoot balancing. Our aim was to classify the pattern of residual forefoot deformities once the hindfoot is corrected, to guide forefoot correction.

Methods

We included 20 cavovarus feet from adult patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth who underwent weightbearing CT (mean age 43.4 years, 14 males). Patients included had flexible deformities, with no previous surgery. Previous work established majority of rotational deformity in cavovarus feet occurs at the talonavicular joint, which is often reduced during surgery. Using specialised software (Bonelogic 2.1, Disior) a 3-dimensional, virtual model was created. Using data from normal feet as a guide, the talonavicular joint of the cavovarus feet was digitally reduced to a ‘normal’ position. Models of the corrected position were exported and geometrically analysed using Blender 3.6 to identify anatomical trends.

Results

We identified 3 types of cavovarus forefoot morphotypes. Type 1 was seen in 13 cases (65%) and was defined as a foot where only the first metatarsal was relatively plantarflexed to the rest of the foot, with no significant residual adduction after talonavicular correction. Type 2 was seen in 4 cases (20%) and was defined as a foot where the second and first metatarsals were progressively plantarflexed, with no significant adduction. Type 3 was seen in 3 cases (15%) and was defined as a foot where the metatarsals were still adducted after talonavicular de-rotation.

Conclusion

We classify 3 forefoot morphotypes in cavovarus feet. It is important to recognise and anticipate the residual forefoot deformities after hindfoot correction as different treatment strategies may be required for different morphotypes to achieve balanced correction.
THE OXFAT SCORE: A NEW SCORE FOR PREDICTING MALIGNANCY IN FOOT AND ANKLE TUMOURS
Authors: Abboud A. , Colta R. , White H. Branford , Kendal A. , Brown R.
Published: June 2024

Background

Masses are not uncommon in the foot and ankle. Most of these masses are benign, often leading clinicians to underestimate their potential for malignancy.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of our clinical records, on patients with histologically confirmed musculoskeletal tumours of the foot and ankle, treated in a single nstitution between 2010 and 2019. The maximum diameter of each lesion was determined through MRI or Ultrasound analysis in centimeters. To develop a scoring system we compared the risk of malignancy with five criteria: site (proximal or distal to the first TMTJ), gender, age, composition and the diameter as observed.

Results

Our study included 496 patients, of whom 39 (7.9%) were identified as having malignancies. The incidence of malignancy demonstrated an increased propensity among male patients, patients over 50 years of age and lesions located proximal to the TMTJ. A ROC Analysis determined that lesions measuring over 2.85 cm had an increased risk of malignancy, with a PPV of 31.1%, a NPV of 94.2%, a Sensitivity of 0.82, and a Specificity of 0.62. These identified patterns of risk were employed to formulate a scoring system, aimed at facilitating informed clinical judgment in the referral of patients to regional tumor services.

Conclusion

The new OxFAT scoring system highlights the importance of lesion size, site, age and gender of the patient in determining the risk of malignancy in lump in the foot and ankle. We propose this new scoring system to aid health care professionals in managing these patients. Based on our results any patient with a foot or ankle mass of less than 2.85cm, an OxFAT score < 4/7 and no malignant or sinister features on MRI or USS can be managed locally with excision biopsy. All other patients should be referred urgently to a Regional Tumour Service.
IMPACTION BONE GRAFTING OF LARGE DEFECTS IN ANKLE AND HINDFOOT FUSIONS
Authors: Jamjoom B. , Malhotra K. , Patel S. , Cullen N. , Welck M. , Clough T.
Published: June 2024

Background

Ankle and hindfoot fusion in the presence of large bony defects represents a challenging problem. Treatment options include acute shortening and fusion or void filling with metal cages or structural allograft, which both have historically low union rates. Impaction grafting is an alternative option.

Methods

A 2 centre retrospective review of consecutive series of 32 patients undergoing hindfoot fusions with impaction bone grafting of morselised femoral head allograft to fill large bony void defects was performed. Union was assessed clinically and with either plain radiography or weightbearing CT scanning. Indications included failed total ankle replacement (24 patients), talar osteonecrosis (6 patients) and fracture non-union (2 patients). Mean depth of the defect was 29 ±10.7 mm and mean maximal cross-sectional area was 15.9 ±5.8 cm2. Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis was performed in 24 patients, ankle arthrodesis in 7 patients and triple arthrodesis in 1 patient.

Results

Mean age was 57 years (19–76 years). Mean follow-up of 22.8 ±8.3 months. 22% were smokers. There were 4 tibiotalar non-unions (12.5%), two of which were symptomatic. 10 TTC arthrodesis patients united at the tibiotalar joint but not at the subtalar joint (31.3%), but only two of these were symptomatic. The combined symptomatic non-union rate was 12.5%. Mean time to union was 9.6 ±5.9 months. One subtalar non-union patient underwent re-operation at 78 months post-operatively after failure of metalwork. Two (13%) patients developed a stress fracture above the metalwork that healed with non-operative measures. There was no bone graft collapse with all patients maintaining bone length.

Conclusion

Impaction of morselised femoral head allograft can be used to fill large bony voids around the ankle and hindfoot when undertaking arthrodesis, with rapid graft incorporation and no graft collapse despite early loading. This technique offers satisfactory union outcomes without the need for shortening or synthetic cages.
Campus Network Security Intrusion Detection Based on Feature Segmentation and Deep Learning
Authors: Chen Zhe
Published: June 2024

At present, the secure campus network strategy adopts technical means such as distinguishing applications and limiting them separately, but they have triggered other new problems, greatly affecting the unity of network resources and data. The relatively dispersed network architecture will inevitably limit the further development and expansion of the campus network. Therefore, when universities plan their networks, they must consider whether the network is safe, complete, smooth, and sustainable for smooth upgrading and development. In order to improve the effect of campus network security intrusion detection, this paper combines feature segmentation and deep learning technology to construct a campus network security intrusion detection model. To reduce the transmission time of query requirements in the grid, this paper improves the replica management mechanism and requires the information server to cache the Bloom Filter structure of nodes in its successor node list. Moreover, this paper uses the Compressed Bloom Filter algorithm to compress the Bloom Filter structure that needs to be transmitted, therefore reducing the network traffic generated during the update process of the Bloom Filter structure copy and avoiding network congestion. It also constructs a campus network security intrusion detection model based on feature segmentation and deep learning. Through experimental verification, the effectiveness of the system in intrusion detection, user evaluation, information processing, and other aspects is verified, and it has certain advantages compared to traditional algorithms. Through experimental research, it can be seen that the campus network security intrusion detection model based on feature segmentation and deep learning proposed in the paper can effectively improve the effect of campus network security monitoring. The method proposed in this article can not only be applied to campus network security, but also to the network security management of enterprises and other units, with certain scalability
The Martyrdom of Illness: Mariia Spiridonova in Siberian Imprisonment, 1906–17
Authors: Boniece Sally A.
Published: June 2024

Abstract: In the summer of 1906 at the age of twenty-one, Mariia Spiridonova, a Russian Socialist Revolutionary (SR) assassin was transported with five other convicted female SR terrorists by railway from Moscow to the Nerchinsk prison complex in eastern Siberia. Only Spiridonova was known as a martyr-heroine to opponents of tsarism across the empire, however, because national newspapers had published her story of physical abuse by police and Cossacks at the time of her arrest. Patterning themselves after an earlier generation of populist terrorists in the 1870s and 1880s, male and female SR terrorists in the revolution of 1905–07 attempted to kill government officials whom the SR party accused of oppressive actions against helpless civilians. Although SR terrorists expected to sacrifice their own lives as compensation for committing political murder, the tsarist government commuted the women’s death sentences to penal servitude for life. In Siberian imprisonment, Spiridonova and her five terrorist comrades followed the tradition of preceding generations of revolutionaries by joining a ‘socialist collective’ or ‘commune’ of political prisoners with a code of conduct and a shared economy. Male and female socialist prisoners lived by such compacts to prepare themselves for the future revolution and to deepen the political consciousness of their fellow inmates by personal example. Only Spiridonova among the women ‘politicals’ took no visible role in upholding the prison commune but rather lived in semi-isolation as an invalid throughout her eleven years in the Nerchinsk complex. Suffering from tuberculosis, Spiridonova, who had anticipated a martyr’s death on the scaffold, seemingly succumbed to the martyrdom of chronic illness. Yet the fall of the tsarist autocracy in February 1917 did not just liberate Spiridonova from penal servitude but simultaneously restored her health, her energy and her drive to engage in radical politics. Her pattern of revolutionary behaviour thus alternated between active and passive self-sacrifice, the tuberculosis that enhanced her legend of martyrdom apparently waxing and waning according to the degree of her personal freedom.
Spot diagram borders are always caustic curves and/or marginal rays III: segmented mirror in hexagons and trapezoids
Authors: Cordero-Dávila Alberto , González-García Jorge , Carmona-Tomas Sabine
Published: June 2024

For annular (circular and elliptical) and hexagonal exit pupils with any optical path differences (described by Zernike Polynomials), it was proven [Appl. Opt. 61, 1876 (2022)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.449270; Appl. Opt. 61, C20 (2022)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.435850] that the border of any spot diagram is composed of the caustic surface and/or marginal rays. In this paper, the previous results are extended to segmented (by hexagons or trapezoids) exit pupils. Examples with exact spherical, coma, and astigmatism aberrations are included, while a mathematical demonstration is also included.
Learning-based distortion correction enables proximal-scanning endoscopic OCT elastography
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Gu Chengfu , Lan Qi , Zhang Weiyi , Liu Chang , Yang Jianlong
Published: June 2024

Proximal rotary scanning is predominantly used in the clinical practice of endoscopic and intravascular OCT, mainly because of the much lower manufacturing cost of the probe compared to distal scanning. However, proximal scanning causes severe beam stability issues (also known as non-uniform rotational distortion, NURD), which hinders the extension of its applications to functional imaging, such as OCT elastography (OCE). In this work, we demonstrate the abilities of learning-based NURD correction methods to enable the imaging stability required for intensity-based OCE. Compared with the previous learning-based NURD correction methods that use pseudo distortion vectors for model training, we propose a method to extract real distortion vectors from a specific endoscopic OCT system, and validate its superiority in accuracy under both convolutional-neural-network- and transformer-based learning architectures. We further verify its effectiveness in elastography calculations (digital image correlation and optical flow) and the advantages of our method over other NURD correction methods. Using the air pressure of a balloon catheter as a mechanical stimulus, our proximal-scanning endoscopic OCE could effectively differentiate between areas of varying stiffness of atherosclerotic vascular phantoms. Compared with the existing endoscopic OCE methods that measure only in the radial direction, our method could achieve 2D displacement/strain distribution in both radial and circumferential directions.
General algorithm for characterization of donor-acceptor pair recombination processes in solid-state materials
Authors: Mejia Enrique A. , Woods John M. , Chand Saroj B. , Ramjattan Erik , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Pelliciari Jonathan , Grosso Gabriele
Published: June 2024

Radiative recombination processes can occur in solid-state systems through the pairing of donor and acceptor defects of the lattice. Recently, donor-acceptor pairs (DAP) have been proposed as promising candidates for quantum applications, and their signature has been observed in emerging low-dimensional materials. Therefore, the identification of such processes is gaining interest and requires methods to efficiently and reliably characterize them. Here, we introduce a general algorithm to identify DAP processes starting from the experimental photoluminescence (PL) emission spectrum and basic material parameters, including the lattice structure and dielectric constant. The algorithm recognizes possible DAP transitions from the emission pattern in the spectrum and returns the characteristic energy of the DAP transition and the separation between the donor and acceptor sites. By testing the algorithm on the photoluminescence spectrum of hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), we show that our method is robust against experimental errors and adds new capabilities to the investigation toolbox of semiconductors and their optical properties.
Tobacco use among adults with disabilities in nine countries–Demographic and Health Survey, 2016–2021
Authors: Kress Alissa C. , Vashist Aastha , Zhang Qing C. , Dragicevic Adriana , Njie Gibril J.
Published: June 2024

Few studies have investigated tobacco use among people with disabilities living in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We aimed to examine current tobacco use among men and women with disabilities using Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from 9 LMICs. We considered a respondent currently use tobacco products if they reported current use of any combustible/smoked tobacco products or smokeless tobacco products. We performed secondary analyses of DHS data from 2016–2021 collected in Haiti, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, South Africa, Timor-Leste, and Uganda. We examined marginal effects in logistic regression to calculate the adjusted prevalence and adjusted prevalence differences of tobacco use by disability status, controlling for selected sociodemographic characteristics. The adjusted prevalence of current use of tobacco products among women with a moderate/severe disability, mild disability, and no disability varied across countries, with medians of 1.9% (range = 0.1% [Mali] to 11.3% [Pakistan]), 3.2% (range = 0.9% [Nigeria] to 13.3% [South Africa]), and 2.3% (range = 0.5% [Nigeria] to 8.9% [South Africa]), respectively. For men with moderate/severe disability, the median adjusted prevalence for current use of tobacco products was 18.8% (range = 8.9% [Rwanda] to 55.0% [Timor-Leste]). The median prevalences of current use of tobacco products for men with mild disability and no disability were similar to those with moderate/severe disability, at 16.5% and 15.9%, respectively. Current tobacco product use among people with disabilities varied for countries included in our study; however, with few exceptions, current tobacco product use was similar across disability status groups. Additional research is warranted to determine whether our findings extend beyond the nine countries assessed here. It is important to consider the needs of people with disabilities in tobacco prevention, control, and cessation efforts so that this substantial population can benefit equitably from such programs, interventions, or policies.
The usefulness of narrow-band Imaging (NBI) in nasopharyngeal lesions—Validation of the Ni NBI classification dedicated for vascular pattern in the nasopharynx
Authors: Klimza Hanna , Maćkowiak Bartosz , Zagaja Kacper , Jackowska Joanna , Banaszewski Jacek , Wierzbicka Małgorzata
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aims to explore the applicability of narrow-band imaging (NBI) involving the Ni classification for the diagnosis of nasopharyngeal mucosal lesions in order to distinguish malignant tumours (NPT) from non-malignant lesions.

Methods

Each patient (n = 53) with a suspected nasopharyngeal lesion underwent a trans-nasal flexible video endoscopy with an optical filter for NBI. We assessed the suspected area using white light imaging (WLI) in terms of location and morphology as well as the vascular pattern (using Ni classification of nasopharyngeal microvessels) and surrounding tissue by using NBI. Based on the results of the NBI and WLI, patients were classified into "positive" or "negative" groups. All lesions of the nasopharynx were biopsied and submitted for final histological evaluation.

Results

NBI showed higher sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy than WLI. There was a significant correlation between the final histological result and the NBI pattern of the NPT: Chi2(1) = 31.34; p = 0.000001 and the WLI assessment of the NPT: Chi2(1) = 14.78; p = 0.00012.

Conclusions

The assessment of the NPT in NBI using Ni NBI classification proved valuable in suspected mucosa assessment. NBI not only confirms the suspicious areas in WLI, but it also shows microlesions beyond the scope of WLI and allows for proper sampling.