bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The implications of dynamic observation of immunoinflammatory indices in patients with resectable gastric cancer
Authors: Du Yongtao , Chen Xihao , Song Jiawei , Guo Yajie , Liu Shuai , Liu Zhiyu , Li Jipeng
Published: October 2024

Purpose
Inflammatory immune markers and tumor markers are indicators obtained by laboratory tests and have also been shown to predict the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer, but most of the studies were analyzed by dichotomous classification or by taking cut-off values. In this study, we collected NLR, PLR, LMR, SII, PNI and CEA, AFP, CA125, CA199 from patients preoperatively, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months postoperatively, and analyzed the effect of their trends on the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer by latent category.
Results
A total of 93 gastric cancer patients were collected preoperative and postoperative data on inflammatory markers and tumor markers, and the trends of the data at multiple time points were analyzed by latent categories. On univariate analysis, only PNI trend (P < 0.013), surgical resection site (P < 0.034) and TNM stage (P < 0.017) were correlated with the prognosis of gastric cancer patients (P < 0.013). On multifactorial analysis, the trend change of PNI in different groups (P < 0.046) and TNM stage (P < 0.007) were independent risk factors for gastric cancer patients.
Conclusion
Evaluation of PNI at multiple time points has implications for the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer.
Co-designing strategies to support children and young people’s mental health in Newham and Northern Devon
Authors: de Lima Ediane Santana , Potter Katie , Preece Cristina , Rehill Nirandeep , Bulmer Sophie , Allen Kate , March Anna , Hobbs Tim , Fonagy Peter
Published: October 2024

Background: Rates of poor mental health among children and young people (CYP) are increasing and wellbeing is declining, despite rising investment in treatment services. The argument for greater investments in prevention is well-established, with growing calls to address the social determinants of CYP’s mental health. However, there is a gap between this rhetoric and the knowledge required to design and implement such approaches locally. Methods: This paper outlines the methods and approaches used in two distinct local communities where CYP, community partners, and system leaders collaborate to co-design contextually relevant and prevention-focused solutions to improve CYP’s mental health and wellbeing.
Results and Conclusions: This paper examines the benefits, inherent tensions, and limitations of this approach. Youth-centred co-design approaches have value and potential, but to address the social determinants of mental health, it is crucial to maintain this focus and ensure that those with the power to effect structural and systemic change are integral members of co-design teams.
Patterns of Acute Watery Diarrhea in Fiji: Understanding the Implications for Water and Sanitation Services
Authors: Batikawai Suliasi Mekerusa , Osborne Nicholas J. , Do Phu , Vosataki Toga , Deo Vimal , Reid Simon A.
Published: October 2024

Background:
Diarrheal disease, including acute watery diarrhea (AWD), is a persistent global health challenge due to unsafe water and sanitation. Understanding the context-specific epidemiological features of AWD is a crucial first step to inform effective public health intervention. The aim of this study is to identify the prevailing characteristics of reported AWD in Fiji and to explore their relationships with water and sanitation service levels categorisation in the Joint WHO & UNICEF Joint Monitoring Program (JMP).
Methods:
Data on all cases of AWD reported syndromically between April 2016 and December 2021 in Fiji's Western and Central administrative Divisions were included in this analysis, along with data on water and sanitation service levels. Statistical analyses were used to determine the demographics of AWD cases, variation in incidences across time, districts and different age groups, relationships between AWD and water and sanitation service level factors, and associated population attributable risk.
Results:
Children under 5 years old (U5) had the highest incidence of AWD throughout the study period, with both age groups showing a seasonal peak from February to April. AWD rates declined during the period when COVID-19 travel restrictions were in place. There was significant variation in AWD notifications across districts and a strong correlation between incidences in the under 5-year and over 5-year-old age groups. Nearly 18% of AWD cases are attributable to unimproved water and sanitation services. Access to safely managed drinking water and sanitation service levels was associated with reduced AWD incidence, while unimproved services posed the highest risks.
Conclusion:
Advancing access to safely managed water and sanitation is essential to mitigate AWD. Investments in water and sanitation infrastructure particularly in underserved and rural areas, are crucial for effective public health interventions aimed at reducing the burden of this disease.
Joint association of systemic immunue-inflammation index and phenotypic age acceleration with chronic respiratory disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhan Yuan , Yang Ruonan , Feng Jie , Bai Genlong , Shi Xiangyun , Zhang Jiaheng , Zhang Jingbo
Published: October 2024

Background
Chronic respiratory diseases (CRD) represents a series of lung disorders and is posing a global health burden. Systemic inflammation and phenotypic ageing have been respectively reported to associate with certain CRD. However, little is known about the co-exposures and mutual associations of inflammation and ageing with CRD. Here, we aim to systematically elucidate the joint and mutual mediating associations of systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel) with CRD based on data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
Methods
Data for this study was obtained from NHANES 2007–2010 and 2015–2018. The single and combined associations of SII and PhenoAgeAccel with CRD were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression models. The dose-response relationship between exposures and outcomes was determined by restricted cubic splines (RCS) regression. Subgroup and mediation analyses were further conducted.
Results
Totally, 15,075 participants were enrolled in this study including 3,587 CRD patients. Compare with controls, CRD patients tended to be older, females and present higher SII and PhenoAgeAccel values. Single-index analysis indicated that either SII or PhenoAgeAccel demonstrated a significantly positive association with CRD via logistic regressions and RCS curves. Furthermore, the joint-indexes analysis revealed that compared to individuals with lower SII and PhenoAgeAccel, those with higher SII and PhenoAgeAccel exhibited remarkably stronger associations with CRD (adjusted OR [aOR], 1.53; 95% CI, 1.28–1.81; P < 0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (aOR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.23–2.03; P < 0.001) and asthma (aOR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.14–1.66; P = 0.002), which were predominant among those aged above 40 years, females and smokers. Eventually, mediation analyses suggested the mutual mediating effects of SII and PhenoAgeAccel on CRD and PhenoAgeAccel mediated SII resulting in CRD more significantly.
Conclusion
This study confirmed the coexposure effect and mutual mediation between SII and PhenoAgeAccel on CRD. We recommend that the joint assessment may conduce to the accurate identification for populations susceptible to CRD and early prevention of chronic respiratory diseases.
Construction and validation of a predictive model for depression in elderly maintenance hemodialysis patients: a multicenter study
Authors: Li Lin , Fang Yiqian , Xu Wenbin , Xiang Yuhe , Qin Yang , Yang Qian , Hu Chaoya
Published: October 2024

Background
Depression is the most common adverse psychological state among elderly patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Persistent depressive symptoms significantly impair the patients' quality of life and increase their risk of readmission and mortality.
Method
In this study, we selected 871 elderly hemodialysis patients from the blood purification centers of nine tertiary hospitals in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, during the period from November 2023 to February 2024. These patients were categorized into a depression group (538 cases) and a non-depression group (333 cases). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify independent risk factors and to develop a risk prediction model, which included the construction of a nomogram and subsequent internal validation. Subsequently, from March to April 2024, external validation of the model was performed using 219 elderly patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis from three additional hospitals in Chengdu.
Result
The depression prevalence rate among elderly patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis was found to be 38.2%. Logistic regression analysis revealed that education level, visual impairment, frailty, cognitive impairment, malnutrition, activities of daily living, and social support were independent risk factors for depression (p<0.05). Both internal and external validation of the model demonstrated a receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC）area under the curve (AUC) greater than 0.80, indicating good discriminative ability. Furthermore, calibration plots, the Hosmer-Lemeshow test, and clinical decision curves all demonstrated that the model has good calibration and clinical applicability.
Conclusion
In this study, we showed that the prevalence of depression is notably high among elderly patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis. Risk factors for depression in this population include education level, visual impairment, frailty, cognitive impairment, malnutrition, activities of daily living, and social support. The nomogram prediction model developed based on these risk factors demonstrates good predictive efficacy, offering a valuable reference for healthcare professionals to identify at-risk individuals early in clinical practice.
Solid malignant adenomyoepithelioma in the mammary gland of a male dog – first description
Authors: Viscone Érica Almeida , Wronski Júlia Gabriela , Nunes Maíra Meira , Rocha Marcella Letícia Melo Souza , Cassali Geovanni Dantas , Nakagaki Karen Yumi Ribeiro
Published: October 2024

Canine mammary tumors are well known and described in a high frequency in female dogs, and most of them are malignant. However, in male dogs, a very low rate, and benign occurrence seems to be more common. This is the first case report to describe the histologic and immunophenotypic features of a solid malignant adenomyoepithelioma in the mammary gland of a male dog. A sample was received from an intact male dog, Shih Tzu, 12-years-old, for histopathological evaluation. According to clinical history, the mass was located near the prepuce, non-adherent, evolution time unknown. Histologically, the mammary nodule consisted of a neoplastic proliferation of cells in a solid pattern, supported by a scant fibrovascular stroma. Cells had epithelioid form, moderated cytoplasm, lightly eosinophilic, and variably vacuolization. Nuclei are round to ovoid, with occasional karyomegaly and bizarre nuclei. Moderated pleomorphism; high mitotic count. Interspersed with the proliferation, a moderate amount of myxoid matrix production. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed and revealed neoplastic cells positive for p63 (90%), Pan-CK (10%), and PR (75%); HER-2 less than 10%; COX-2 and ER-negative. The results confirmed the diagnosis of solid malignant adenomyoepithelioma. Despite the low occurrence of MGT in male dogs, further studies with a high number of cases are needed. The role of age, breed, sexual status, and hormonal influences is unknown. Understanding the correlation between histological types, their behavior, and immunohistochemistry markers is crucial.
Emergence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae before and after COVID-19 pandemic in Germany
Authors: Waldeck Frederike , Kramer Tobias Siegfried , Boutin Sebastien , Matten Jens , Kramer Jan , Rupp Jan
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Mycoplasma (M.) pneumoniae is a common pathogen of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Epidemics occur every 3-7 years especially in pediatric patients. We collected data from a large laboratory network in Germany to define the epidemiological dynamics in the pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic period.
Methods: In this retrospective cohort study we included all patients that obtained targeted or multiplex PCR for M. pneumoniae from nasopharyngeal swabs, sputum or bronchoalveolar fluids from 2015 - 2024. Demographic data (age, sex, place of residence, in- or outpatient status) were compared between M. pneumoniae positive and negative patients and co-infections with bacterial or viral pathogens analyzed.
Results: We screened 38.204 patients for M. pneumoniae. 1448 cases (3.8 %) of M. pneumoniae were identified (48.8% females). Pediatric patients ≤18 years represented 75.7% of M. pneumoniae patients and 2.3% were ≥60 years. Incidence of M. pneumoniae increased in fourth quartile 2015 (16.2%), second quartile 2018 (14.8%) and fourth quartile 2023 (13.4%). No cases were detected during COVID-19 pandemic 2021. Young age, outpatient status and year of testing were predictors of M. pneumoniae detection in multivariate analysis (p<0.001).
Conclusions: Empirical treatment of CAP patients often does not include coverage of M. pneumoniae. A more thorough implementation of available surveillance data into clinical routine, respective therapies could be adapted more quickly during epidemic outbreaks of M. pneumoniae infections.
Contemporary use of fibrinolytics in the management of pediatric empyema
Authors: Casamassima Maria Grazia Sacco , Noel-MacDonnell Janelle R. , Oyetunji Tolulope A , Peter Shawn D. St.
Published: October 2024

Background: This study seeks to investigate the contemporary use and effectiveness of fibrinolysis as a first-line option in pediatric empyema.
Methods: The Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) was queried to identify patients with empyema without fistula (2018-2023). First-line treatments were chest drainage (CD), chest drainage with fibrinolysis (CDF), and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery/open decortication (VATS/OD). Outcomes between groups were compared using Kruskal-Wallis and Chi-Square tests. Multivariate generalized linear model was used to account for covariates.
Results: 581 individuals/cases met inclusion criteria. CD accounted for 11.9% of cases, CDF for 67.6%, and VATS/OD for 20.7%. After adjusting for covariates differences in LOS were not significant (p=0.393). Subsequent VATS/ODs were required in 6.9% of CDF cases, 8.9% of CD, and 3.3% of primary VATS/OD. Additionally, 32.5% of primary VATS/OD received adjuvant fibrinolysis. Complications were more often observed in the VATS/OD group compared to CD and CDF (11.7% vs 5.8% and 4.1% respectively; p= .008). There were no differences in 30-day readmission rate (VATS/OD:1.2%, CTD:1.5%, and CTDF:1%; p=0.83).
Conclusion: Fibrinolysis is now utilized as first-line treatment for most patients and as adjunct in other approaches. The findings justify further implementation as it is the less invasive first-line primary therapy in patients with empyema.
Single-arm Multicenter Phase II Study on Aggressive Local Consolidative Therapy in Combination With Systemic Chemotherapy for Stage IV Non- small Cell Lung Carcinoma With Oligometastases: CURE-OLIGO (TORG1529)
Authors: Tokito Takaaki , Yamada Kazuhiko , Ishii Hidenobu , Takiguchi Yuichi , Saito Go , Minato Koichi , Imai Hisao , Tanaka Hiroshi , Miura Satoru , Watanabe Kageaki , Koreeda Yoshifusa , Ono Akira , Furuya Naoki , Misumi Toshihiro , Hayakawa Kazushige , Ogo Etsuyo , Okamoto Hiroaki
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Stage IV non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) with oligometastases is potentially curable by radical treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for thoracic disease, including the primary lesion and lymph node metastases, combined with local consolidative therapy (LCT) for oligometastases. Methods: This was a multicenter Phase II trial for patients with Stage IV NSCLC with oligometastases for whom CRT for thoracic disease was feasible. The treatment procedures included CRT containing platinum-doublet for thoracic disease and LCT for oligometastases within 8 weeks of starting or completing CRT. The primary endpoint was the 2-year survival rate. Results: We enrolled 19 patients between June 2016 and May 2020. The median age was 68 (range: 51–74) years. Twelve patients had adenocarcinoma, and 6 had squamous cell carcinoma. The metastasis sites included the brain, bone, adrenal gland, lung, and cervical lymph node (n = 9, 7, 2, 1, and 1, respectively). All patients completed CRT concurrently with LCT for all oligometastases. There were 11 partial responses, resulting in a response rate of 58% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 33.5–79.7%). Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 8.6 (95% CI: 7.0–10.2) and 42.1 (80% CI: 13.6–not reached) months, respectively. The 2-year survival rate was 68.4% (80% CI: 52.6–79.9%). Fourteen patients (74%) showed progression with newly observed lesions. There were no severe adverse events, and toxicities were tolerable. Conclusion: Chemotherapy in combination with aggressive LCT for NSCLC with oligometastases might extend survival and achieve local control. Clinical trial registration: University Hospital Medical Information Network, Japan (protocol identification number: UMIN000022431, first registration date: 01/JUN/2016)
Novel Geological Framework to Understand the Origin and Diversity of Orthopyroxene, Olivine, Spinel (OOS) Lithologies on the Moon
Authors: Sodha Garima , Dhingra Deepak
Published: October 2024

A novel geological framework is presented to address the origin of Orthopyroxene, Olivine, Spinel (OOS) lithologies on the Moon, an emerging component of the lunar crust. The new framework can explain multiple observations including the rare occurrence of OOS lithologies in close proximity, lack of mafic mineral association with Mg-spinel lithology (both from remote sensing observations) and contrasting observation of mafic mineral association with Mg-spinel in retuned lunar samples. We further report new OOS exposures at Thomson crater and present the first remote-sensing-based evidence of mafic mixing with Mg-spinel lithology. Collectively, the new framework and observations provide a testable set of geological scenarios to understand the origin and diversity of the OOS lithologies and their role in lunar crustal diversity. Future missions would directly benefit from this knowledge towards collecting the best OOS lithology samples, currently absent from the returned lunar sample collection.
Unet based Xception Model Approach for Facial Emotion Recognition
Authors: Majumder Surya , Bhattacharya Adrija
Published: October 2024

Facial emotion recognition is an important topic of study in artificial intelligence and computer vision. In this paper, we propose an automated system for facial emotion identification that uses a novel model architecture based on Xception backbone, with a U-Net based attention mechanism along with a dynamically changing parameterized tan function. MobileNet is widely used deep learning model known for its Depthwise-seperable convoloution. Our study seeks to present a novel model architecture that leverages the capabilities of Xception long with a U-Net based attention mechanism for global attention and a dynamically modified re-parameterized tangent function for local attention. The unsupervised segmentation done by the U-Net block and the attention generated by the said tangent function inside the Xception model is used as attention weights, thereby bringing new insights and advantages for improved facial emotion identification. This research looks at the importance of face expression recognition, which is important in human-computer interaction, affective computing, and a variety of applications in healthcare, entertainment, and security. Because of the intrinsic complexity and diversity of human face emotions, we needed to come up with creative solutions, which led us to this novel model approach. The proposed model is the fundamental contribution of this work, boosting its expressiveness for greater adaptability. Our technique effectively leverages different information by merging layer outputs and using novel attention mechanisms, resulting in higher facial emotion identification accuracy. The combination of complimentary data from diverse sources improves the system's accuracy and robustness. Experimental evaluations utilizing the Cohn-Kanade (CK+) dataset underscore the method's advantages, including improved accuracy and performance.
Service Availability and Readiness for Diabetes and Hypertension Care among Health Facilities in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Banigbe Bolanle Feyisayo , Halim Nafisa , de Wit Tobias F Rinke , Elliott Patricia , Zamba Emmanuella , Oke Temitope , Dada Ibironke , Gomez-Perez Gloria P , Wirtz Veronika J , Sabin Lora L
Published: October 2024

Background
More than 80% of the global premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) occurs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Nigeria, like most LMICs, has limited capacity to respond to diabetes and hypertension. As the Lagos State government accelerates the rollout of its mandatory health insurance, Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS), the number of individuals with diabetes and hypertension seeking care will increase. This study aimed to determine service availability and service readiness for diabetes and hypertension among health facilities providing primary care for these conditions in Lagos State, and to explore the facility characteristics associated with service readiness, such as their LSHS empanelment status.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 84 facilities enrolled in the baseline study of an impact evaluation of the Lagos State Health Scheme. We collected data using relevant modules of the World Health Organization’s Harmonized Health Facility Assessment tool. Service availability was defined as providing diagnosis or treatment for either condition, and service readiness scores were calculated as the proportion of tracer items available and functional at the facility on the survey day. Further, we used a multiple linear regression model to estimate associations between facility characteristics and service readiness.
Results
Service availability for both conditions was high. The mean diabetes and hypertension service readiness scores were 69% and 66%, respectively. The percentage of fully ready healthcare facilities was very low (2.6% for diabetes and 2.5% for hypertension). The staff and guidelines domain received the lowest score for both conditions. There was no association between service readiness and LSHS empanelment status. Providing only outpatient services had a negative association with service readiness for both conditions. Participation in a quality improvement program had a positive association with hypertension service readiness score.
Conclusion
While the mean service readiness scores for diabetes and hypertension were moderately high among sampled health facilities, only a very small percentage were fully service ready. There were critical deficits in service readiness domains that must be addressed to ensure the required inputs for high-quality diabetes and hypertension care are available in both LSHS and non-LSHS facilities.
MedMAE: A Self-Supervised Backbone for Medical Imaging Tasks
Authors: Gupta Anubhav , Osman Islam , Shehata Mohamed S. , Braun John W. , Feldman Rebecca E.
Published: October 2024

Medical imaging tasks are very challenging due to the lack of publicly available labeled datasets. Hence, it is difficult to achieve high performance with existing deep-learning models as they require a massive labeled dataset to be trained effectively. An alternative solution is to use pre-trained models and fine-tune them using the medical imaging dataset. However, all existing models are pre-trained using natural images, which is a completely different domain from that of medical imaging, which leads to poor performance due to domain shift. To overcome these problems, We propose a backbone pre-trained using the collected medical imaging dataset with a self-supervised learning technique called Masked autoencoder. This backbone can be used as a pre-trained model for any medical imaging task, as it is trained to learn a visual representation of different types of medical images. To evaluate the performance of the proposed backbone, we used four different medical imaging tasks. The results are compared with existing pre-trained models. These experiments show the superiority of our proposed backbone in medical imaging tasks. The source code is available on github.com/islamosmanubc/ MedMAE.
The use of Igisoro game in Occupational Therapy Rehabilitation in Rwanda: A mixed method design
Authors: Turikumana Pierre Damien , Murebwayire Epiphanie , Nshimiyimana Joseph , Habimana Celestin , Tuyishime Jean Claude
Published: October 2024

Background: The Igisoro game is a traditional board game deeply embedded in Rwandan culture, played by two participants on a specially designed board. It has been recognized for its role in fostering social, intellectual, and communication skills. The game is widely accessible and enjoyed across various settings. In particular, Igisoro is utilized in Rwandan hospitals, including mental health and physical settings, where occupational therapists incorporate it as a therapeutic tool in their interventions.
Objective:This study aims to explore the perceptions of occupational therapy professionals and their clients regarding the use of Igisoro game in rehabilitation.
Methods:The research first gathered insights from occupational therapy professionals through a cross-sectional quantitative study involving seventeen (17) occupational therapists, selected conveniently. Subsequently, the study explored the perceptions of beneficiaries through face-to-face semi-structured in-depth interviews with twelve (12) participants, recruited purposively. The sample size was determined based on data saturation.
Results:The occupational therapy professionals reported that Igisoro game improve clients’ concentration, gaining attention, expression of feelings, problem-solving skills and improving socialization were reported at higher frequencies of (88.2%), self-confidence (82%), improve judgement, fine motor skills, cognitive and perceptual skills at 76.5%, management of side effect of medication (64.7%). Furthermore, the beneficiaries’ perceptions yielded three themes namely: enhancing the socialization, stress management, and enhancing hands skills. Conclusion: The perceived benefits identified by both occupational therapists and beneficiaries align closely. Both groups recognized that the Igisoro game enhances socialization, cognitive abilities, and hand functional skills. Therefore, Igisoro should continue to be employed as a valuable therapeutic tool in occupational therapy rehabilitation.
Multi-Modal Large Language Model Enables All-Purpose Prediction of Drug Mechanisms and Properties
Authors: Xie Pengtao , Liang Youwei , Zhang Ruiyi , Li Yongce , Huo Mingjia , Ma Zinnia , Singh Digvijay , Gao Chengzhan , Rahmani Hamidreza , Bandi Satvik , Zhang Li , Weinreb Robert , Malhotra Atul , Grotjahn Danielle , Awdishu Linda , Ideker Trey , Gilson Michael
Published: October 2024

Accurately predicting the mechanisms and properties of potential drug molecules is essential for advancing drug discovery. However, traditional methods often require the development of specialized models for each specific prediction task, resulting in inefficiencies in both model training and integration into workflows. Moreover, these approaches are typically limited to predicting pharmaceutical attributes represented as discrete categories, and struggle with predicting complex attributes that are best described in free-form texts. To address these challenges, we introduce DrugChat, a multi-modal large language model (LLM) designed to provide comprehensive predictions of molecule mechanisms and properties within a unified framework. DrugChat analyzes the structure of an input molecule along with users' queries to generate comprehensive, free-form predictions on drug indications, pharmacodynamics, and mechanisms of action. Moreover, DrugChat supports multi-turn dialogues with users, facilitating interactive and in-depth exploration of the same molecule. Our extensive evaluation, including assessments by human experts, demonstrates that DrugChat significantly outperforms GPT-4 and other leading LLMs in generating accurate free-form predictions, and exceeds state-of-the-art specialized prediction models.
Immediate and sustainable effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on pain reduction in older adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias: a pilot study
Authors: Lee Chiyoung , Park Juyoung , Kwoh Kent , Fain Mindy , Galvin James , Park Lindsey , Ahn Hyochol
Published: October 2024

We simultaneously assessed the impact of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on mitigating both self-reported pain and pain behaviors to more objectively explore its effects in older adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The analysis investigated 40 participants randomly (1:1) subjected to active and sham tDCS for 20 min on 5 consecutive days. Multi-group latent transition analysis enabled the simultaneous evaluation of both pain domains in a single model and analysis of their changes as a function of intervention exposure by modeling the transition probabilities of latent classes and comparing these changes between groups. Two pain categories (“high pain” and “low pain”) were identified based on the numeric rating scale and mobilization–observation–behavior–intensity–dementia scale scores. Overall, tDCS demonstrated better effects in helping participants transition to a “low pain” status during and after the intervention (~3 months) compared with sham stimulation, demonstrating its immediate and enduring effects.
Assessment of Neck Muscles’ Anatomical Characteristics Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Ultrasound Imaging in Patients With Chronic Neck Pain: a Study Protocol
Authors: Plaza-Manzano Gustavo , Ramos-González Ana , Romero-Morales Carlos , Rabanal-Rodríguez Gabriel , Hernández-García Elías , Izquierdo-García Juan , Calero Juan Antonio Valera
Published: October 2024

Neck pain is one of the leading causes of disability globally, being a condition with high recurrence and chronicity. In patients with chronic pain, psychological, anatomical, professional, sociocultural, and biological profiles are determinants of the severity and duration of pain episodes. Although physical therapy provides tools to assess these factors, the analysis of the histology, size, and shape of the musculature in the cervical region is one of the main limitations in cervical pain research. While the gold standards are computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, these imaging methods are expensive, require prolonged examination time, and cannot be routinely used in clinical practice. Ultrasound is a feasible, fast diagnostic tool, offering real-time imaging at a lower cost (in both materials and human resources). The objectives of this project are: 1) to conduct a validation study of panoramic ultrasound for analyzing the size, shape, and histology of structures located in the cervical region, comparing the ultrasound characteristics with the values obtained from magnetic resonance imaging; 2) to assess the reliability of measurement procedures in both experienced and inexperienced operators in healthy participants and those with cervical pain; 3) to compare reliability across different segments; 4) to analyze the correlation between ultrasound metrics, clinical severity indicators, sociodemographic characteristics, and psychosocial factors; and 5) to analyze sex and side differences in clinical and asymptomatic populations, as well as differences between cases and controls.
Restauração adesiva indireta onlay para tratamento de dente com fratura coronária: caso clínico
Authors: Caixeta Rodrigo Vieira , Vicente Gabriela Mendes , Souza Laureane de , Ferreira Rafaela , Costa Luy de Abreu , Monteiro Douglas Roberto , Martins Christine Men , Verri Fellippo Ramos , De Souza Batista Victor Eduardo
Published: October 2024

O objetivo é apresentar um caso de tratamento estético com restauração adesiva indireta do tipo onlay, em cerâmica, para reabilitação unitária de dente com perda de estrutura coronária proveniente de trica. Selecionou-se um paciente na clínica da Faculdade UNOESTE (campus de Presidente Prudente-SP) com destruição coronária em molar com tratamento endodôntico. Optou–se pela restauração indireta do tipo onlay para a reabilitação coronária. Foram realizadas quatro sessões até a finalização do tratamento. Na primeira sessão fez-se raspagem, profilaxia, orientação de higiene bucal, remoção da restauração em resina composta e instalação do pino de fibra de vidro. Na segunda sessão realizou-se preparo do dentel, moldagens, seleção da cor, confecção da restauração provisória e registro da mordida em articulador semi-ajustável. Na terceira sessão realizou-se a cimentação da peça protética, ajuste da oclusão, polimento e moldagens para confecção da placa estabilizadora oclusal. Por fim, na quarta sessão, a placa foi instalada e ajustada. O tratamento estético com restauração adesiva indireta tipo onlay e utilização de placa estabilizadora oclusal seguida da reabilitação de dente com perda de estrutura coronária demonstrou resultado íntegro, estético e funcional satisfatório após dois anos de acompanhamento do caso.
Women in The Modern Era: Understanding Church as The Bride
Authors: Hidayat Debra
Published: October 2024

AbstrakDi era modern, gereja menghadapi berbagai tantangan, salah satunya adalah pandangan terhadap wanita dan peran mereka. Ideologi feminis sangat memengaruhi peran wanita di zaman modern. Meskipun berakar dalam liberalisme, feminisme mencakup banyak aspek, seperti penahbisan wanita, kesetaraan dalam pernikahan, hak aborsi, bahasa netral untuk jeniskelamin dalam Alkitab, dan pencarian untuk ketuhanan yang feminin. Feminis Kristen sering kali merujuk pada ajaran agama dan ideologi di luar bukti-bukti Alkitab dan teks-teks Kristen lainnya. Wanita, khususnya istri, melambangkan citra pengantin, yaitu gereja di hadapan Kristus. Penelitian ini, menggunakan metode kualitatif dari Systematic Literature Review dan penelitian eksploratif, menelusuri naratif Alkitabiah tentang wanita seperti jatuhnya Hawa dan mengeksplorasi bagaimana feminisme telah memengaruhi pandangan gereja terhadap peran wanita sebagai istri yang dapat menghasilkan perpecahan pernikahan yang menghambat kesatuan di antara suami istri. Penelitian menemukan bahwa sementara feminisme cenderung mendorong istri untuk memiliki otonomi mereka sendiri, mereka melewatkan pesan yang terdapat pada Kejadian 3:15 yang dapat memecah kesatuan suami istri. Pemahaman terhadap peran wanita akan memberikan wawasan dan berkontribusi pada identitas dan posisi yang benar dari jemaat sebagai pengantin di hadapan Allah.
AbstractIn the modern era, the church faces various challenges, one of which is the view of women and their roles. Feminist ideology has greatly influenced the role of women in modern times. Although rooted in liberalism, feminism covers many aspects,such as women’s ordination, equality in marriage, abortion rights, gender-neutral language in theBible, and the search for a feminine deity. Christian feminists often refer to religious teachings andideologies beyond the evidence of the Bible and other Christian texts. Women, especially wives,symbolize the image of the bride, the church before Christ. This research, using the qualitative method of Systematic Literature Review and exploratory research, traces the Biblical narrative of women such as the fall of Eve and explores how feminism has influenced the church’s view of women’s role as wives which can result in marital divisions that hinder unity between husband and wife. The research found that while feminism tends to encourage wives to have their own autonomy, they miss the message found in Genesis 3:15 which can fracture the unity of husband and wife. Understanding the role of women will provide insight and contribute to the correct identity and position of the church as a bride before God.
Memaknai Perkembangan Seni dan Arsitektur Gereja: Kontribusi Pemikiran Murray A. Rae terhadap Arsitektur GBKP
Authors: Sinuraya Alosius Des Afriando , Soleiman Yusak
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe general development of church architecture shows changes in the architectural function of church buildings over time, which not only includes the physical and aesthetic aspects of the building, but also has an important role in representing community identity and Christian religiosity in church architecture. This research emphasizes the need for a holistic approach in designing church architecture. Church architects are expected to consider not only financial or budget aspects, but  also theology, culture and the surrounding environment in constructing church buildings. This aims to ensure that all aspects of the church’s architectural function can produce a contextual design. Murray A. Rae’s contributions to the theology of church architecture highlight theimportance of deep dialogue between theological identity, local culture, and contemporary context. Rae’s thoughts provide important relevance for the development of church architecture in Indonesia, especially in the context of today’s GBKP architecture. The result of this approach is not only creating aesthetic church architecture, but also an ecletic one that integrates elements of theology, local culture, and contemporary times.
AbstrakPerkembangan umum arsitektur gereja menunjukkan adanya perubahan fungsi arsitektur gedung gereja seiring waktu, yang tidak hanya mencakup aspek fisik dan estetika bangunan, tetapi juga memiliki peran penting dalam  merepresentasikan identitas komunitas dan religiositas Kristen dalam arsitektur gereja. Penelitian ini menekankan perlunya pendekatan holistik dalam merancang arsitektur gereja. Para arsitek gereja diharapkan mempertimbangkan tidak hanya aspek dana atau anggaran, tetapi juga teologi, kultur, dan lingkungan sekitar dalam pembangunan gedung gereja. Hal ini bertujuan agar semua aspek fungsi arsitektur gereja dapat menghasilkan desain yang kontekstual. Kontribusi Murray A. Rae dalam teologi arsitektur gereja menyoroti pentingnya dialog mendalam antara identitas teologi, budaya lokal, dan konteks kekinian. Pemikiran Rae memberikan relevansi penting bagi perkembangan arsitektur gereja di Indonesia, terutama dalam konteks arsitektur GBKP. Hasil dari pendekatan ini bukan hanya menciptakan arsitektur gereja yang estetis, tetapi juga ekletik yang mengintegrasikan elemen-elemen teologi, budaya lokal, dan kekinian.
Ikhtiar Membangun Teologi Sosial Kon(multi)tekstual dengan Memanfaatkan Epistemologi Barat demi Kedalaman Bersama
Authors: Eddy Kristiyanto Antonius
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe main object of this research is to efford to give foundation to the praxis of social theology here, now, and beyond (hic, nunc, et tunc). On regarding the state of question and content of epistemology and theology do not assume each other, so the focus of this research could be formulated as follow: How could epistemology give the positive roles in any discourse about in the extending dan profounding the social theologywhich characterized by some con(multi)textual? Either epistemology or theology constitute two the autonom clusters. Each of them has the special method. The historical method through this research, however, builds bridge  between philosophy in one hand and the theology in the other. This method is due to the principles for the convergence of sources. State of the art elaborates the reflections of Wolfhard Pannenberg and Johann Baptis Metz which would be confrontated with the concept of proflection. This research finally promotes two patters which are intercomplementary.
AbstrakKajian ini bermaksud mengikhtiarkan pendasaran praksis teologi sosial di sini, sekarang, dan melampaui (hic, nunc, et tunc). Mengingat duduk perkara dan isi epistemologi dan teologi tidak saling mengasumsikan, maka fokus kajian ini dirumuskan begini: Bagaimana epistemologi dapat berperan positif dalam diskursus tentang pengembangan dan pendalaman teologi sosial yang bercorak kon(multi)tekstual? Baik epistemologi maupun teologi merupakan dua rumpun ilmu yang otonom. Mereka memiliki metodologi yang berbeda. Namun, metode historis dalam kajian ini menjembatani antara arus filosofis dengan teologis. Metode ini sesuai dengan asasnya, yakni konvergensi sumber. State of the art berangkat dari pengolahan atas refleksi, misalnya Wolfhart Pannenberg dan Johann Baptis Metz, yang akan dikonfrontasikan dengan konsep tentang profleksi. Akhirnya kajian ini menyodorkan dua pola yang saling melengkapi.
Comparison Between Methods of Choosing EEG Training Data in Epileptic Seizures Prediction Systems
Authors: Amorim Luı́s Otávio , Sousa Miguel Angelo , Santos Sara , Pires Ricardo , Thome-Souza Sigride
Published: October 2024

Considering the large number of people that suffer with epilepsy, there is great interest in developing a system capable of predicting the occurrence of the seizures. Warning patients about the proximity of a seizure can help them to avoid dangerous situations. Many efforts in the development of this system have been placed using, basically, machine learning techniques. In most of these works, regardless of the technique employed, it is assumed that the system is able to learn when the patient’s brain signals, obtained from electroencephalogram (EEG), change from interictal to pre-ictal state. Some published works do not explicitly clarify the method of choosing training and test data. This means that good results may be due to the use of an inadequate method. That is, the EEG segments may have been temporarily mixed up during training, which would help the network correctly predict the seizure. However, this would not work from a real point of view. The objective of this work is to investigate, through experiments, the effect of the way of choosing the training and test data on the accuracy of a seizure prediction system. Experimental results showed that the accuracy of the systems increases when training is performed with windows close to the seizure used for testing.
Role of Medicinal Plants in the Management of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Gupta Aaryan , Roy Arpita , Roy Amit , Raja Vaseem , Sharma Kuldeep , Verma Rajan
Published: October 2024

There is a rapid spread of Multiple Sclerosis disorder across the globe, around 2.8
million cases of Multiple Sclerosis in the world. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune
disease of the central nervous system characterized by demyelination, neuroinflammation,
and a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. Many drugs have been tested on MS patients but
there is no effective treatment for MS till now. So to inhibit the symptoms caused by MS we
performed a study in which we identified various naturally occurring materials with neuroprotective
effects on the body that can treat Multiple Sclerosis. The therapeutic strategies portion of
the paper reviews the array of disease-modifying therapies currently available for MS management.
This paper evaluated their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety profiles. It also addressed
emerging treatment paradigms by using different naturally occurring materials, including
personalized medicine approaches and novel therapies in development. This paper provides
a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding MS, focusing on its
pathogenesis, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies.
Acoustic-assisted Fabrication, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Application of Ni2O3/NiO/rGO Nanocomposites
Authors: Gomaa Islam , Gamal Fatama , Elmahgary Maryam G. , Ibrahim Medhat A. , Hosny Nasser Mohammed
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

This study introduces an innovative two-step approach to fabricate a highperformance
Ni₂O₃/NiO/rGO nanocomposite photocatalyst. The process synergistically combines
solvothermal precursor synthesis with calcination and high-energy ultrasonic irradiation, enabling the
in-situ formation of a thin Ni₂O₃ layer on NiO quasi-sphere nanoparticles anchored to a reduced graphene
oxide (rGO) matrix.

Method:

The incorporation of rGO significantly enhances charge separation, resulting in a dramatic
increase in active surface area from 17.1 m²/g to 131 m²/g, and a substantial improvement in the photocatalytic
degradation of the resilient Fluorescein dye—achieving an 81% degradation rate under
UV light, compared to 36% with pristine NiO.

Results:

Comprehensive characterization, including FTIR, XRD, and XPS analyses, confirmed the
NiO-Ni₂O₃ interface transformation, successful reduction of graphene oxide, and critical interactions
between NiO and Ni₂O₃.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the promising potential of the Ni₂O₃/NiO/rGO nanocomposite for
environmental remediation, particularly in the degradation of persistent organic pollutants.
A Systematic Review on the Scope and Applications of Nanomaterials in the Plant Systems: Current and Prospects
Authors: Kuruvalli Gouthami , Maity Subhasish , Santra Ayantika , Lee Jaewoong , Kalla Reddimohannaidu , Reddy Vaddi Damodara
Published: October 2024

Nanoparticles are essential tools used in manipulating plants, and there is a wide variety
of nanoparticles, each with its own uses for different plants. Plants undergo minuscule gene
manipulations that give them advantages and endurance. When particles are reduced to the nanometer
scale, they exhibit a high surface area to volume ratio, resulting in unique properties
that allow for systematic applications in engineering, biomedical, agricultural, and related fields.
Nanomaterials can be created through bottom-up or top-down procedures using physical, chemical,
and organic synthesis methods. This review study explores the use of different nano materials
in the agricultural sector and the impact of silica nanoparticles, metal oxide, and metal nanoparticles
on plant metabolic processes. Additionally, the impacts of nanoparticles on microbes,
bacteria, and other pathogens are also being analyzed.