bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Istraživanje brodoloma iz 1. st. pr. Kr. kod rta Letavice na otoku Pagu
Authors: Radić Rossi Irena , Dorušić Vedran
Published: November 2024

Brodolom kod rta Letavice za sada je jedino odlično očuvano nalazište u hrvatskom podmorju, nezaštićeno željeznim kavezom, na kojem se redovito provode turistička ronjenja, ali i arheološka istraživanja u kojima sudjeluju svi zainteresirani ronioci. Tijekom istraživačke kampanje 2023. podmorski iskop nastavljen je od jugozapadnog dijela broda u smjeru njegova središnjeg dijela. Izvađeno je sveukupno trideset i šest cjelovitih ili oštećenih keramičkih posuda, a u iskopu je pronađeno i dvadeset diskoidnih keramičkih čepova amfora. U krajnjem južnom dijelu iskopa pojavilo se još čitavih amfora pa će tijekom sljedeće godine biti potrebno nastaviti istraživanje u smjeru juga i istoka.
Extra-adrenal adrenocortical cancer associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
Authors: Green Deirdre , Richards Kate , Doyle Brendan , Thompson Chris , Hill Arnold , O’Reilly Michael W , Sherlock Mark
Published: November 2024

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignant tumour arising from the adrenal cortex, with an estimated annual incidence of one to two patients per million. Ectopic ACCs are extremely rare. The majority of ACCs are sporadic; however, ACC has been linked with genetic disease processes, including multiple endocrine neoplasia type-1 (MEN-1). We present the case of a 66-year-old lady referred with newly diagnosed diabetes on a background of primary hyperparathyroidism. Examination revealed Cushingoid features, and hormonal evaluation confirmed ACTH-independent Cushing’s syndrome. Morning cortisol after a 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test was 548 nmol/L with an undetectable ACTH <3.0 pg/mL. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate was 5.3 μmol/L and androstenedione 3.49 nmol/L, both of which were normal. Testosterone was suppressed at <0.4 nmol/L. Imaging revealed a 6 × 6 × 4.5 cm right-sided presumed adrenal lesion, a pancreatic lesion (2.5 × 1.6 cm), and bilateral pulmonary nodules (0.9 × 0.8 cm, 0.7 × 0.6 cm, 0.3 cm). Right adrenalectomy was performed, and histology was consistent with an extra-adrenal ACC (Weiss score 5/9) within the peri-adrenal adipose tissue. The resected adrenal gland was normal. Lung biopsy confirmed metastatic ACC tissue, and endoscopic ultrasound-guided biopsy of the pancreatic lesion revealed a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour, which was confirmed biochemically to be an insulinoma. Genetic assessment confirmed MEN-1. This case highlights the importance of screening for MEN-1 in at-risk patients and the need for close clinical follow-up. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of extra-adrenal ACC in MEN-1 syndrome.

Learning points

Adrenal lesions in MEN-1 syndrome have significant malignant potential. Newly diagnosed lesions should be followed closely with short-interval imaging, and a lower threshold for surgical removal is suggested.

Primary hyperparathyroidism is often the earliest laboratory or clinical manifestation of MEN-1 syndrome. A detailed medical and family history is vital in order to appropriately identify patients at risk of MEN-1.

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of extra-adrenal adrenocortical carcinoma in MEN-1 syndrome.
Association of serum steroids with survival in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer
Authors: Mostaghel Elahe A , Wang Victoria , Marck Brett T , Sharifi Nima , Matsumoto Alvin M , Sweeney Christopher J
Published: November 2024

The CHAARTED study showed that adding docetaxel (Doc) to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) in men initiating treatment for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) prolongs survival, particularly in high-volume disease. Androgens drive both mHSPC and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Lower nadir serum testosterone concentrations are associated with better outcomes in men treated with ADT for biochemical relapse, while higher androgens at mCRPC are associated with better prognosis and increased benefit from abiraterone. We evaluated the association of serum steroids at 24 weeks with overall survival (OS) and time to CRPC (TTCRPC) in 588 men with available samples from the CHAARTED study. Steroid concentrations were measured using mass spectrometry. The median testosterone concentration at 24 weeks was 8 ng/dL and did not differ in ADT alone vs ADT plus Doc arm. Achieving nadir testosterone below 20 ng/dL was not associated with OS or TTCRPC in either arm. In high-volume disease, Doc conferred an OS and TTCRPC benefit regardless of steroid concentrations. In low-volume disease, steroid concentrations in the lowest quartile at 24 weeks identified a subset of men with poor survival outcomes more like high-volume disease, and in whom Doc was also associated with improved OS and TTCRPC. The known OS benefit of Doc in high-volume mHSPC is not modified by serum steroid concentrations achieved on treatment. In low-volume disease, steroid concentrations in the lowest quartile may identify a poor prognosis subset in whom Doc also confers OS benefit.
Effects of Mouthwashes and Surface Treatments on the Color Stability and Surface Roughness of a Three-Dimensional Printed Interim Crown Material
Authors: Deste Gökay Gonca , Üstün Aladağ Seda
Published: November 2024

Background: To evaluate the color stability and surface roughness of a 3D-printed interim crown material subjected to different surface treatments while immersed in various mouthwashes.
Methods: The specimens (n=56) were manufactured with a digital light processing 3D printer. Half of the specimens were coated with one layer of Ultra Glaze varnish, and other half were polished with OptraGloss. After the initial color and surface roughness values were measured, specimens were immersed in different solutions [3 mouthwashes (Andorex, Tantum Verde and Listerine) and distilled water] for 24 hours. After solution exposures, color and surface roughness measurements were repeated, and the color change (ΔE) was calculated. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test were performed to analyze the color difference and surface roughness of the specimens (p< .05).
Results: Listerine caused lower discoloration compared with other mouthwashes in both polish (4.11±1.0) and glaze (3.71±0.98) groups (p< .05). ∆E was greater than the perceptibility (1.3) and acceptability thresholds (2.25) for both polish and glaze groups immersed in mouthwashes. Before solution immersion, the polish group (0.421±0.122) had greater surface roughness values than did glaze group (0.073±0.024) (p< .001). The surface roughness of the mouthwashes and distilled water were similar for both polish and glaze groups (p> .05). After solution immersion, all groups showed greater surface roughness, except for the polish group, which was immersed in Tantum Verde (p< .05).
Conclusion: Mouthwashes negatively impacted the surface roughness and color stability of 3D-printed resin. The use of glazes for 3D-printed interim crowns can be recommended for long-term use.
Keywords: Mouthwashes, Surface Properties, Temporary Dental Restoration, Tooth Discoloration
Linking Cerebral Oximetry to Outcomes of Reperfusion Therapy in Ischemic Stroke: a Post-Hoc Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Avidzba A. R. , Saskin V. A. , Nikonov A. M. , Hussain A. , Kirov M. Y.
Published: November 2024

Aim. To evaluate the predictive value of cerebral oximetry for functional recovery in patients undergoing reperfusion therapy for ischemic stroke.

   Materials and Methods. A post hoc analysis was performed using data from a single-center, open-label, randomized controlled trial. The study included 45 patients with ischemic stroke who received systemic thrombolysis. Primary outcomes included functional recovery as assessed by modified Rankin Scale and mortality. Serial cerebral oximetry was performed within the first 24 hours after thrombolysis. The interhemispheric difference (IHD) in cerebral oximetry was used to determine a cutoff point for predicting functional recovery using ROC curve analysis. Associations between IHD and outcomes were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models.

   Results. The IHD in cerebral oxygenation between the unaffected and affected hemispheres was 4 % (3–5 %) before thrombolysis and dropped to 3 % (1–4 %) 24 hours after thrombolysis (P = 0.024). An IHD of less than 4 % was identified as an independent predictor of favorable functional outcome with an adjusted odds ratio of 12 (95 % CI: 1.6–93.7; P = 0.017). However, IHD less than 4 % was not predictive of mortality (P = 0.301).

   Conclusion. Systemic thrombolysis in ischemic stroke is associated with improved cerebral oxygenation. An IHD in cerebral oxygenation of less than 4 % serves as an independent predictor of favorable functional recovery in ischemic stroke patients but does not correlate with reduced mortality.
A utilização da geometria na habitação popular: da planta baixa à edificação
Authors: Silveira Pahim Natália
Published: November 2024

É um grande desafio fazer o aluno compreender o seu papel social, juntamente com a importância da Matemática no dia a dia. Como suporte teórico principal da pesquisa tem-se a Lei de Diretrizes e Bases da Educação Nacional (LDBEN). O projeto ocorreu na Escola Marista Santa Marta, nas turmas de oitavo ano, visando um melhor entendimento sobre área e perímetro. Para isso, foi solicitada a elaboração de plantas baixas e, em grupos, eles tiveram que escolher uma delas para edificar a casa. Por fim, percebe-se que é preciso ir além do óbvio e mostrar que a Matemática está presente cotidianamente.
From active escapism to virtual withdrawal: Validation of the Compensatory-Dissociative Online Gaming scales (C-DOGs)
Authors: Giardina Alessandro , Fournier Loïs , Starcevic Vladan , King Daniel L. , Di Blasi Maria , Schimmenti Adriano , Billieux Joël
Published: November 2024

Background

In the Compensatory-Dissociative Online Gaming (C-DOG; Giardina et al., 2024) model, we proposed a continuum from compensatory to dissociative gaming involvement. This continuum represents different degrees of integration between physical and virtual environments with three core processes – Active Escapism, Escape, and Dissociation – and two peripheral processes – Gaming-Related Relaxation and Body-Mind Detachment. Here, we developed and tested a multidimensional measure based on this model.

Method

We capitalized on existing items for measuring escapism and dissociation and we generated new items consistent with the hypothesized model dimensions. A total of 54 items were administered to 1,176 online gamers playing different game genres, together with measures of problematic gaming, passion for gaming, and other psychological distress indicators.

Results

Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses yielded a six-factor, 36-item structure, with multiple hierarchical regression analyses highlighting unique associations with other psychological constructs assessed.

Discussion

The following factors were identified: (1) Emotional Displacement - redirection of negative emotion into the game with associated relaxation; (2) Absorption - detachment of the player from time and space while gaming; (3) Active Escapism - simulative use of the game to compensate for lack of self-confidence in reaching physical life objectives; (4) Virtual Withdrawal – maladaptive gaming to balance impaired social functioning, predicted by traumatic experiences and pervasive depression; (5) Dissociative Regulation - dysfunctional level of engagement associated with excessive anxiety; (6) Failure Escape - problematic avoidance via gaming related to fear of future failures.

Conclusions

The C-DOG factors identify critical psychological processes associated with problematic gaming, with relevant research and clinical implications.
Machine Learning(s) in gaming disorder through the user-avatar bond: A step towards conceptual and methodological clarity
Authors: Stavropoulos Vasileios , Prokofieva Maria , Zarate Daniel , Colder Carras Michelle , Ratan Rabindra , Kowert Rachel , Schivinski Bruno , Burleigh Tyrone L. , Poulus Dylan , Karimi Leila , Gorman-Alesi Angela , Brown Taylor , Gomez Rapson , Hein Kaiden , Arachchilage Nalin , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: November 2024

In response to our study, the commentary by Infanti et al. (2024) raised critical points regarding (i) the conceptualization and utility of the user-avatar bond in addressing gaming disorder (GD) risk, and (ii) the optimization of supervised machine learning techniques applied to assess GD risk. To advance the scientific dialogue and progress in these areas, the present paper aims to: (i) enhance the clarity and understanding of the concepts of the avatar, the user-avatar bond, and the digital phenotype concerning gaming disorder (GD) within the broader field of behavioral addictions, and (ii) comparatively assess how the user-avatar bond (UAB) may predict GD risk, by both removing data augmentation before the data split and by implementing alternative data imbalance treatment approaches in programming.
A case for recognition of caste as a sui generis category in international law
Authors: Upadhyay Amit , Mehrotra Abhinav
Published: November 2024

Caste, a system of social division based on inherited status, has a long history in South Asia. At present, Caste is no longer specific to any religion or region, having been exported to various countries by the South-Asian diaspora, often lacking the equality framework required to address Caste-based discrimination. Caste and race are closely interconnected as comparable systems of oppression and discrimination. However, Caste-based discrimination has been accepted as a form of racial discrimination by the UN Committee since 1996 as a sub-element of discrimination under Article 1(1) of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) and as a form of discrimination based on work and descent prohibited by international human rights law since 2000. India has consistently held that caste can neither be equated with race nor covered under descent. The conceptualization of Caste in the wide category of work and descent to cover analogous systems worldwide has proven insufficient to address rampant abuses. Caste is not acknowledged as a distinct ground of discrimination due to its complexities, which require a targeted response internationally. Hence, recognising Caste as a sui generis category of discrimination would provide adequate guidance for national approaches to prevent such discrimination and achieve the equality guaranteed in the international legal framework.
How to avoid constitutional court-packing in an era of democratic backsliding: Reflections on the appointment of constitutional judges
Authors: Miliuvienė Jolita
Published: November 2024

Any struggles in the nomination and appointment of constitutional justices and failed renewal of the composition of the constitutional court might corrupt the perception of the independence of the guardian of constitutionality. The recent wave of impropriate renewals of constitutional courts throughout Europe leads to substantial concern. There are numerous more or less serious examples, including the well-known cases of Poland and Hungary, but alongside with them Latvia, Lithuania, the Slovak Republic, etc. In an era of democratic back-sliding more significant in some countries and less in others, it leads to wondering whether the influence of politics in power could be the critical factor distorting the composition of constitutional courts and whether this can be seen as a new virus infecting new democracies. After analyzing the recent failures to appoint constitutional justices, caused essentially by malfunction due to political actors participating in the process, the paper argues that in the selection, nomination, and appointment of constitutional justices, ensuring the depoliticization of this procedure is not the best choice, because the participation of democratically elected institutions in the formation of the constitutional courts enhances their legitimacy and credibility. The former, entrusted with the power to adopt erga omnes decisions, desperately need this legitimation. Different political cultures and contrasts in states' constitutional orders suggest that there is hardly one recipe that fits all. However, some universal and fundamental criteria stemming from the principle of the rule of law intended to ensure the independence of constitutional justice could bind the discretion of political actors participating in the nomination and appointment of constitutional judges and contribute to preventing constitutional crises.
Screening algorithm for predementia cognitive impairment in cardiovascular patients at a general practitioner's appointment. Expert Consensus Statement
Authors: Drapkina O. M. , Berns S. A. , Nikulina S. Yu. , Solovieva E. Yu.
Published: November 2024

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Structural and functional state of the skin microcirculation in men with different phenotypes of hypertension of low and moderate cardiovascular risk
Authors: Korolev A. I. , Ososkov V. S. , Fedorovich A. A. , Chashchin M. G. , Dadaeva V. A. , Strelkova A. V. , Omelyanenko K. V. , Mikhailova M. A. , Gorshkov A. Y. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: November 2024

Aim. To study the structural and functional state of skin microcirculation in working-age men with different phenotypes of hypertension (HTN) of low/moderate cardiovascular risk.

Material and methods. A total of 218 healthy men underwent total blood count and biochemical blood tests, volumetric sphygmography, videocapillaroscopy, laser Doppler flowmetry at rest and with const­rictor and dilator tests, photoplethysmography, flow-mediated vasodilation of the brachial artery, cardiac and main artery ultrasound, 24-hour blood pressure (BP) monitoring. Based on the 24-hour BP monitoring, three following groups were formed: normal BP (NBP) group — 72 men, isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH) group — 70, systolic-diastolic hypertension (SDH) group — 76.

Results. According to videocapillaroscopy and laser Doppler flow­metry, no reliable intergroup differences were found at the level of capillaries and precapillary arterioles. According to photoplethymography, men with SDH compared to the NBP group had higher AIp75 (augmentation index normalized to 75 bpm) (7,35 vs -5,4%; p<0,001), vascular age (VA) (49 vs 43 years; p<0,001) and reflection index (RI) (38 vs 29,1%; p<0,001), while patients with IDH had higher RI (35,3 vs 29,1%; p<0,001), respectively.

Conclusion. Men with IDH and SDH do not have capillary rarefaction, tone changes, or constrictor and dilator activity of skin precapillary arterioles. Men with IDH and SDH are characterized by a higher tone of smooth muscle cells of terminal muscular arteries and distributing arterioles, and men with SDH also have higher arterial stiffness.
Comparative analysis of serum galanin levels in patients with coronary artery disease with and without heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and in individuals without cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Timofeev Yu. S. , Yafarova A. A. , Sheptulina A. F. , Kiselev A. R. , Metelskaya V. A. , Dubovskaya N. I. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: November 2024

Aim. To study the level of the neuro-regulatory peptide galanin in pa­tients with coronary artery disease (CAD) with and without heart failu­re with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in comparison with individuals without cardiovascular disease (CVD) included in the control group.

Material and methods. The study included 80 male patients as fol­lows: 30 patients with CAD and HFrEF; 30 patients with CAD and without HFrEF; 20 individuals without CVD (control group). The groups were comparable in age and body mass index (BMI).

Results. The median (Me) age of patients with CAD and HFrEF was 67,5 years, while in individuals without CVD — 56,5 years. In the CAD and HFrEF group, 73,4% of patients had New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II HF. The galanin level was significantly (p<0,001) higher in patients with CAD with HFrEF (Me [Q25-Q75] — 84,5 [62,2-96,2] pg/ml) and CHD without CHFrEF (82,9 [68,2-94,0] pg/ml compared to the control group (53,0 [24,4-62,9] pg/ml). According to the ROC analysis, the highest area under the curve (AUC=0,924) for galanin was in the CAD without HFrEF group relative to the control. At the estimated threshold level of 71,5 pg/ml, the sensitivity and specificity were 70,0% and 95,0%, respectively.

Conclusion. The obtained results suggest an association between ga­la­nin and the pathophysiological mechanisms of CAD development, re­gardless of HFrEF.
Stress in individuals with noncommunicable diseases: ESSE-RF and ESSE-RF2 data
Authors: Gomanova L. I. , Balanova Yu. A. , Shalnova S. A. , Ivlev O. E. , Kutsenko V. A. , Evstifeeva S. E. , Imaeva A. E. , Kapustina A. V. , Karamnova N. S. , Kotova M. B. , Maksimov S. A. , Muromtseva G. A. , Shvabskaya O. B. , Yarovaya E. B. , Kontsevaya A. V. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: November 2024

Aim. To determine the level and prevalence of stress in individuals with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

Material and methods. Representative samples of the population aged 25-64 years from 17 regions of the Russian Federation (n=27950) were included, examined within the ESSE-RF and ESSE-RF2 studies. To assess stress, the Perceived Stress Scale-10 was used. Stress levels were defined as follows: low — 0-11, moderate — 12-19, high — 20-40. The presence of diseases was recorded by a positive answer to the question: "Has a doctor ever told you that you have/had the following diseases?". Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥140 mm Hg, and/or diastolic BP ≥90 mm Hg, and/or taking antihypertensive drugs. Obesity was defined as a body mass index ≥30,0 kg/m2, while abdominal obesity — as a waist circumference ≥102 cm in men and ≥88 cm in women. Blood biochemical tests included lipid profile assessment.

Results. The stress level in the entire sample varied from 15,0 (myo­cardial infarction) to 16,6 (rheumatoid arthritis). When analyzing by sex, the highest stress score in women was observed in coronary artery disease — 17,6, while in men — in rheumatoid arthritis (15,1), cerebrovascular accident (15,1). More than a quarter of men with coronary artery disease (25,8%), prior cerebrovascular accidents (26,4%) had a high level of stress, while women with these diseases — 40,6%. Among the entire sample, the presence of each NCD, except for myocardial infarction, was characterized by a significantly higher stress level compared to participants without the corresponding disease.

Conclusion. In the Russian population, individuals with NCDs are cha­racterized by higher stress rates compared to individuals without the corresponding disease. Among women, both the level and prevalence of stress are higher, and the list of diseases affecting the mental well-being is wider compared to men.
Assessment of cardiac interoception using behavioral tests in patients with hypertension
Authors: Sukmanova A. A. , Minenko I. A. , Limonova A. S. , Guseynova K. A. , Bashankaeva Z. B. , Ershova A. I. , Drapkina O. M.
Published: November 2024

Interoception is defined as the perception of body visceral signals. In recent years, clinical studies in this area have focused on patients with neurological and psychiatric disorders, while interoception in patients with cardiac pathologies remains poorly understood.

Aim. The aim was to investigate cardiac interoception in patients with hypertension (HTN).

Material and methods. The study included 38 patients with HTN aged 22-50 years and 38 healthy volunteers aged 26-50 years, matched for sex and age. Interoception was studied using the behavioral tests (mental tracking test and heartbeat detection test). Participants filled out questionnaires aimed at assessing the level of depression, anxiety, alexithymia and body perception.

Results. No significant differences in interoceptive accuracy were found between patients with HTN and the control group. Among the patients, no significant correlations were found between interoception and mental or physiological characteristics (body mass index, blood pressure).

Conclusion. The data obtained suggest that in middle-aged patients with HTN, an increase in interoception associated with high blood pressure is compensated by the formation of an interoceptive deficit. The observed effects are related to the etiology of the cardiac disorder and are not explained by the influence of additional psychological and physiological factors.
The effects of humanization training comparing doctors and non-doctors
Authors: Martins Clara Barbosa , Almeida Jouce Gabriela de , Malbergier André
Published: November 2024

Abstract: Introduction: The medical category has been considered of little competence regarding the attributes related to humanization. As such, changes have been made in the course curriculums of undergraduate medical courses in Brazil and worldwide to expand the Humanities disciplines. In addition to these initiatives, humanization training is needed for doctors who graduated under the aegis of old curriculums and for those who - even though they graduated with the new curricular guidelines - still need to be updated on the subject. There are few quantitative studies about humanization training, especially for medical doctors. Objective: To evaluate the effects of humanization training on doctors in comparison with non-doctors. Method: Humanization trainings lasting 135 minutes were conducted for doctors and non-doctors in a psychiatric university hospital in São Paulo (Brazil). The classes were conducted with the use of slides and included discussions and a role-playing activity. The research subjects answered a questionnaire with 34 items assessing their self-perceptions about the knowledge, skills and attitudes in humanization before and 15 days after the training. Nonparametric tests were used to compare the scores between the group of doctors and non-doctors. Moreover, multiple linear regressions were performed for the knowledge, skills and attitude dimensions aiming to evaluate whether there was a significant difference between genders, age ranges, marital status, number of children, jobs, religion, years of service. Result: Medical professionals and those with six or more years of service had lower humanization scores at the pre-training moment. The training resulted in an increase in humanization scores in all professional categories, but physicians showed a greater increase and reached the same level as the other categories. Conclusion: A fast and low-cost training resulted in an increase in the self-perception of humanization in doctors and non-doctors. The difference between the professional categories ceased to exist in the evaluation carried out 15 days after the training. The results suggest that doctors can increase their self-perception about humanization and reach the same level as other professionals.
Cutaneous and conjunctival habronemosis in horses treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Santa Catarina State University, Brazil
Authors: Américo Larissa , Aquino Lúcia Padilha Cury Thomaz de , Moura Anderson Barbosa de , Ribeiro Gianlucca Simão Nadal , Fonteque Joandes Henrique , Chryssafidis Andreas Lazaros
Published: November 2024

Abstract Habronemosis, also known as habronemiasis or habronematidosis, is a parasitic disease of equids caused by the larval stages of Habronematidae nematodes (Habronema muscae, Habronema microstoma, and Draschia megastoma) that are transmitted by muscid flies. The presence of aberrant infective larvae in the cutaneous and conjunctival tissues of these hosts results in granulomatous, exudative, and ulcerated lesions, also known as “summer sores.” In this study, we present a retrospective analysis of habronemosis cases in horses from the municipality of Lages, located on the Santa Catarina Plateau, a region with high altitudes and a temperate climate that differs from regions of Brazil where such parasitosis usually occurs. The equids were examined from 2008 to 2020 at the Veterinary Hospital of Santa Catarina State University. Sixteen patients were diagnosed and treated using macrocyclic lactones and wound cleaning. Most cases were recorded in autumn in horses (10/16, 62.5%) over 15 years of age (11/16, 68.8%), and the lesions were more frequently located in the conjunctiva (11/16, 68.8%). In scientific dissemination media, this is the first report of habronemosis on the Santa Catarina Plateau, Brazil. This information will contribute to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of skin diseases in horses in this region.
Bibliometric Analysis of the Application of Digital Technology in Physical Rehabilitation
Authors: Góra Tomasz , Tsos Anatolii , Indyka Svitlana
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant limitations in global healthcare systems, particularly in rehabilitation, where growing demand from age-related conditions has accelerated the integration of technology. This study aimed to analyze the development of scientific output on rehabilitation technology, focusing on publication trends, geographic distribution, and subject area categorization. A mini-review was conducted using the Scopus database, covering relevant articles published from 1995 to 2023. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) was calculated to assess publication trends over time, and publications were categorized by document type, country, region, and subject area to identify key contributors and thematic research areas. The search yielded 2,771 entries, with an overall CAGR of 19.57% from 2000 to 2023, though the growth slowed to 9.30% in the most recent period (2020–2023). Europe contributed the largest share of publications (41%), followed by North America (24%) and Asia (19%). In conclusion, while the field experienced strong overall growth, the recent post-pandemic decline indicates reduced momentum. The disparity in research output between developed and developing countries highlights the importance of increased global support. Addressing these challenges will be important for sustaining future growth and fostering innovation.
Metaphorical Perceptions of Operating Room Staff Towards the Concept of Pressure Ulcer: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Hacıdursunoğlu Erbaş Dilay , Parlak Goknur , İlbey Koç Betül , Eti Aslan Fatma
Published: November 2024

Objective: To explain the perceptions of the operating room staff about pressure ulcers through metaphors.

Methods: A descriptive qualitative research design was used. In the study, it was aimed to reach the entire universe, not choosing a sample. A total of 83 operating room staff participated in the study which 45 of them were operating room nurses, 38 of them were anesthesia technicians. The data were collected face to face with the descriptive features form and semi-structured interview form created by the researchers. In the semi-structured interview form, the operating room workers were asked to complete the sentence “Pressure ulcer is like ... because ...”. The data were analyzed with the "content analysis" method, which is one of the qualitative analysis methods.

Results: Operating room staff generated a total of 25 types of metaphors for the concept of pressure ulcers and expressed 83 opinions for them. The first five most mentioned metaphors by the operating room staff were icebergs, matryoshka, storm after a sunny day, swamp, garden care and cracked vase, respectively. 19 of these metaphors were repeated nine to two times, and six of them were repeated once.

Conclusion: Metaphors can be used as a powerful research tool in understanding and revealing the cognitive images of operating room staff regarding the concept of pressure ulcers. This study gives clues about how operating room staff imagine the concept of pressure ulcer.
From Turns to Networks: Multiplicity in Rhetorical Agency
Authors: Johnson Nathan R.
Published: November 2024

This article examines rhetorical agency by using advanced bibliometric methods, arguing for a refined approach that recognizes multiple forms of rhetorical agency. By employing methodologies from information science, this study also illuminates often-overlooked infrastructural dynamics among scholars, specifically in how scholarship has materialized and enforced through textual citations. The analysis supplements traditional historical narratives of theory, introducing a dynamic conceptualization of rhetorical agency as an interconnected network. This paper forwards a multifaceted understanding of rhetorical agency, envisioned as comprising at least five intertwined networks. This article consequently provides a novel approach for analyzing disciplinary history by considering how citationality carries material traces of the past.
Analysis of characteristics of patients whose sugammadex claims were denied by the Auto Insurance Claims Review Department of Korean Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service: a retrospective single-center review
Authors: Jong Hwa Song , Jung Ki Tae
Published: November 2024

Background: Recently, there have been many cases where sugammadex used in traffic accident patients has been deducted from auto insurance claims. This study aims to investigate the characteristics of sugammadex deductions through retrospective analysis.Methods: We included patients who underwent general anesthesia after traffic accidents at our institution between January 2019 and December 2023. Data for patients for whom sugammadex payments were deducted from the Auto Insurance Claims Review Department of the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service were obtained from the hospital’s insurance department, and electronic medical records were analyzed. The characteristics of neuromuscular blockade (NMB) and its reversal, including administration time and dosage of neuromuscular blockading agent (NMBA) and reversal agent, intraoperative neuromuscular transmission (NMT) monitoring results, and reasons for sugammadex use, were assessed and analyzed.Results: A total of 251 patients deducted sugammadex payments during the study period. The deduction rate significantly decreased from 88-100% in previous years to 43.4% in 2023. Sugammadex was used to reverse deep NMB (55.1%) and in high-risk patients (23.1%). Sugammadex was mostly used to reverse deep NMB (55.1%) and in high-risk patients (23.1%). NMT monitoring was documented in 81.3% of cases, with 38.9% showing deep NMB and 33.3% showing moderate NMB. Despite improved NMT documentation after 2021, sugammadex payment deductions persisted.Conclusions: Sugammadex payment deductions occur despite clinical necessity, particularly in deep and moderate NMB cases. Thorough documentation may help reduce these deductions. Collaboration between healthcare providers and policymakers is required to use reversal agents guided by clinical evidence.
Factors associated with self-rated health in Black Canadians: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Boamah Sheila A. , Antabe Roger , Baidoobonso Shamara , Etowa Josephine , Djiadeu Pascal , Ongolo-Zogo Clemence , Husbands Winston , Mbuagbaw Lawrence
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Self-rated health (SRH) has shown to be a strong predictor of morbidity, functional decline, and mortality outcomes. This paper investigates the association between sociodemographic variables (e.g., employment, education, sex) and SRH among Black Canadians.

Methods

We used cross-sectional survey data (n = 1380) from the A/C (African Caribbean) Study of first- and second-generation Black Canadians in Toronto and Ottawa. Participants were invited to complete an electronic survey questionnaire in English or French in 2018–2019. Generalized linear model analyses were used to evaluate the associations among sociodemographic factors and self-rated quality of health.

Results

A total of 1380 self-identified Black individuals completed the survey and were included in the analysis. The majority of participants were under the age of 60 (89.7%), female (63.4%), born outside of Canada (75.1%), and residing in Toronto, Ontario (61.9%). The strongest association with poor SRH was found for difficulties accessing health care, sexual orientation, and substance misuse/disorder, while accessing/meeting basic needs was associated with better SRH, following adjustment for other socioeconomic conditions and lifestyle factors.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore the importance of improving the social determinants of health as a conduit to improving the general health status and the quality of life of Black Canadians. Results revealed that Black Canadians may be demonstrating high levels of resilience in circumventing their current social circumstances and structural disadvantages to live the best quality of life. Understanding sociodemographic and socio-structural barriers that Black people face is essential to reducing vulnerabilities to poor outcomes and improving their health and well-being.
Inhibitors of the Wnt pathway in osteoporosis: A review of mechanisms of action and potential as therapeutic targets
Authors: Song Jiayi , Chang Weirong , Wang Yujie , Gao Peng , Zhang Jie , Xiao Zhipan , An Fangyu , Yan Chunlu
Published: November 2024

The Wnt signaling pathway is one of the most important and critical signaling pathways for maintaining cellular functions, such as cell proliferation and differentiation. Increasing evidence substantiates that the Wnt signaling pathway also plays a significant role in the regulation of bone formation in osteoporosis. Accordingly, inhibitors of this pathway, such as sclerostin, Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), WNT inhibitory factor 1 (WIF1), and secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs), have a negative regulatory role in bone formation and may serve as effective therapeutic targets for osteoporosis. This review examines the mechanisms of action of Wnt signaling pathway inhibitors in osteoporosis, the relationship between the Wnt pathway and its inhibitors, and new molecular targets for osteoporosis treatment. Overall, the regulatory mechanisms of Wnt pathway inhibitors are summarized to provide scientific and theoretical guidance for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis.
PF4 regulates neuronal ferroptosis in cerebral hemorrhage through CXCR3/PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Hu Na , Li Yunfeng , Zhang Guohong , Wang Wei , An Liping , An Ran , Liu Yu
Published: November 2024

Inhibiting ferroptosis represents a promising strategy for managing neuronal injury caused by intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Platelet factor 4 (PF4), a chemokine with diverse biological functions, has an unclear role in ICH and its impact on neuronal ferroptosis. To investigate this, a hemin-induced injury model was established in PC12 cells in vitro, and an ICH model was created in vivo using IV collagenase injection. Hemin-treated PC12 cells were co-cultured with recombinant mouse PF4 (Rm-PF4) protein to examine the effects of PF4 on ferroptosis. Additionally, Rm-PF4 was administered intraperitoneally to ICH mice, and its influence on neurological dysfunction, brain edema, and neuronal ferroptosis was evaluated. Western blot analysis was employed to assess PF4 levels, CXCR3/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway activation, and ferroptosis-related protein expression. PF4 levels were found to be reduced in both perihematomal brain tissues of ICH mice and hemin-treated PC12 cells. Treatment with Rm-PF4 decreased ferrous ion, malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, effectively inhibiting ferroptosis in PC12 cells. Furthermore, Rm-PF4 administration alleviated neurological dysfunction, neuronal damage, and brain edema while suppressing neuronal ferroptosis in ICH mice. Mechanistically, Rm-PF4 activated the CXCR3/PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway, and this protective effect was diminished by a CXCR3 antagonist in both ICH mice and hemin-treated PC12 cells. In conclusion, PF4 mitigates ICH-induced neuronal ferroptosis in mouse models and PC12 cells by activating the CXCR3/PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway.
TEnCATS - Transposable Element nanopore Cas9-Targeted Sequencing v1
Authors: McDonald Torrin , Mumm Camille , Switzenberg Jessica , Boyle Alan
Published: November 2024

This is the Boyle lab's protocol for using Cas9 to target transposable elements within genomic DNA using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) R10 flow cells.
Moodle in the educational process of learning Russian as a foreign language
Authors: Nemich Natalya N. , Khokhlova Anna A.
Published: November 2024

The aim of the study is to consider the use of the Moodle platform in the process of teaching Russian as a foreign language to students of technical specialties in Samara State Technical University. To achieve the aim set, the following tasks are solved: to briefly describe the potential of Moodle and the range of opportunities for organizing and conducting work with students; to analyze the capabilities of the Moodle platform when learning Russian as a foreign language to create online lessons, homework, tests to test students’ knowledge; to substantiate the possibility of an individual approach to learning on the Moodle platform, taking into account the level of knowledge; to describe methods for automating and evaluating students’ knowledge and skills (test). The novelty of the research is in substantiating the effectiveness and modernity of using the Moodle platform in a technical university at different stages and forms of education. The practical significance of the research is due to the possibility of using the author’s developments and research to create or update Moodle courses.
ÜNİVERSİTE ÖĞRENCİLERİNİN STRESLE BAŞA ÇIKMA TARZLARINA GÖRE ÜNİVERSİTE YAŞAMINA UYUM DÜZEYİNİN İNCELENMESİ
Authors: Pehlivan Neslihan Nur
Published: November 2024

Bu araştırma, bir devlet üniversitesinin Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksekokulunda okuyan 177 birinci sınıf öğrencisinin stresle başa çıkma tarzlarının, üniversite yaşamına uyum düzeyine etkisini incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Veriler, Kişisel Bilgi Formu, Üniversite Yaşamı Ölçeği (ÜYÖ) ve Stresle Baş Etme Tarzları Ölçeği (SBÇTÖ) kullanılarak toplanmıştır. Katılımcıların yaş ortalaması 20,1 olup %76,3’ü kadındır. Odyometri programında okuyan, tercih ettiği bölümü isteyerek seçen ve okul yaşamından memnun olan öğrencilerin ÜYÖ toplam puanlarının daha yüksek olduğu saptanmıştır (p
The method of the vehicle suspension system damping element load characteristic synthesizing
Authors: Chetverikov Mikhail V. , Maksimov Roman O. , Rubanov Pavel S.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Nowadays the problem of improving the ride smoothness of vehicles is relevant. The main way of solution is to carry out synthesis of design parameters of suspensions. To carry out such works and to obtain the most satisfactory properties, the new methods of synthesis of load curves of vehicle suspension devices are necessary.
AIM: Development of the new method of synthesizing the curves of a damper of the vehicle suspension.
METHODS: The study deals with the problem of controlling vibrations on their transfer paths by determining the required load curve of a vehicle suspension damper. Analytical methods and simulation modeling methods are applied in the solution process.
RESULTS: As a result of the study, the new method based on the building the range of permissible damping values and selection of the curve on its basis has been created. Based on the obtained method, a number of nonlinear curves of the damper of the primary system of vehicle suspension and selection of the most suitable one regarding to ride smoothness were formed.
CONCLUSION: As a result of the study, the new method of synthesizing the curves of the damper has been obtained. As a result of the comparative evaluation, the efficiency of the new method is confirmed. For the considered study object, the difference in ride smoothness is up to 25%.
γ-Secretase in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease and therapeutic potential of its modulators
Authors: Vilyaninov Vladimir N. , Vashchenko Vladimir I. , Shabanov Petr D.
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer’s disease is caused by the loss of synaptic connections and neurons in the brain. One of the characteristic morphological features of Alzheimer’s disease is the formation of amyloid plaques containing β-amyloid peptide. The β-amyloid peptide is produced from the amyloid precursor protein (APP) through sequential proteolytic cleavages by α-secretase, β-secretase, and γ-secretase, resulting in β-amyloid peptide clustering into amyloid plaques, a key pathogenic event in Alzheimer’s disease. Since γ-secretase mediates the final cleavage that releases β-amyloid peptide, it has been widely studied as a potential drug target for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. γ-Secretase is a transmembrane protein complex consisting of four subunits: presenilin, nicastrin, Aph-1, and Pen-2, which are necessary for its function. γ-Secretase has been shown to cleave more than 140 substrates, including the APP and Notch. Clinical trials of γ-secretase inhibitors for Alzheimer’s disease have shown side effects due to inhibition of Notch signaling. It has been concluded that alternative compounds with more specific regulation or modulation of γ-secretase are needed. A number of γ-secretase modulators have now been developed. To modulate γ-secretase and better understand its complex biology, research focuses on identifying inhibitor and modulator binding sites within γ-secretase’s structure, as well as intermediate binding proteins that modulate γ-secretase. This article discusses recent advances over the past decade in studying the role of γ-secretase in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
l-DOPA for the prevention and acceleration of the reversal of neurogenic dystrophic damage to internal organs
Authors: Zabrodin Oleg N.
Published: November 2024

This review presents experimental and clinical studies of the effects of the levorotatory isomer of dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA) on the development and reversal of neurogenic dystrophic changes (neurogenic dystrophy) in the heart, stomach, liver, and pancreas. These changes were induced by stimulation of the reflexogenic zones such as the aortic arch and pyloroduodenal area in rats and rabbits, by tonsillar stimulation in rabbits, by 3-hour electrical stimulation and immobilization in rats, and by central electrical stimulation of the posterior hypothalamus in rabbits. Protective effects of l-DOPA were identified at doses of 30, 50, and 300 mg/kg in terms of the development of biochemical and morphological manifestations of neurogenic dystrophy in the studied organs, including a significant decrease in norepinephrine and creatine phosphate levels and an increase in lactic acid level. The use of l-DOPA during the repair phase accelerated the recovery of adrenergic mediation, energy metabolism, and the resolution of dystrophic morphological manifestations, in particular, hemorrhagic erosions of the gastric mucosa. In clinical settings, preoperative medication of patients with l-DOPA (5 mg/kg) for 3 days before mitral commissurotomy prevented the development of postoperative heart failure. In patients with peptic ulcer disease, the administration of l-DOPA during the early remission phase accelerated the healing of ulcers in the stomach and duodenal wall.