bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paper-based Colorimetric Assay: Rapid Detection of HVA in Urine Samples
Authors: Bhalchim Vrushali , Undale Vaishali , Shewale Sunil
Published: June 2024

Diagnosing and monitoring of Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and certain mood disorders involves detecting homovanillic acid an essential aspect excreted through urine. In this study, we explored novel approaches for detecting homovanillic acid (HVA) in urine samples, aiming for cost-effective and on-site analysis methods. Traditional techniques like spectrophotometric determination and HPLC, while sensitive and selective, are often impractical due to their expense and lack of portability. Instead, we investigated the utility of paper-based analytical devices (PADs), which have gained popularity for various analytical applications including chemical element identification and environmental contamination assessment. We utilized different types of Whatmann filter papers (No. 1, No. 2, No. 4) and chromatography paper as substrates for the PADs, and employed combination of potassium ferrocyanide and ferric chloride reagent for HVA detection. Our experiments revealed positive results, indicating the efficacy of this approach. Optimization experiments identified 30 minutes to 3 hours as the optimal immersion times, with a subsequent 30-minute drying period at room temperature. Notably, variations in performance were observed among the different filter papers, with Whatmann CF6 paper exhibiting significant differences compared to the others in terms of HVA detection efficiency.
Brain Topological Changes in Subjective Cognitive Decline and Associations with Amyloid Stages
Authors: Jiang Xueyan , Zhang Mingkai , Yan Chuyao , Daamen Marcel , Boecker Henning , Yue Feng , Jessen Frank , Hu Xiaochen , Han Ying
Published: June 2024

Background
Amyloid spreads throughout the cortex in Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is thought to cause disturbances in brain networks. It is not clear how structural and functional connectivity change as amyloid accumulates progressively across cortical stages in individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), a risk condition for AD.
Methods
Graph-theoretic analyses of functional and structural brain networks were performed using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging in 100 individuals with SCD and 86 normal controls (NC) derived from an ongoing large cohort study. Topological properties at node and network levels were characterized as indicators of information exchange efficiency and network robustness. Amyloid burden was quantified in a subset of 55 individuals with SCD by amyloid positron emission tomography using a frequency-based staging method, yielding mean regional standardized uptake value ratios (SUVr) for four anatomical divisions and global SUVr for the entire cortex, which were further correlated with topological property measures.
Results
Individuals with SCD showed increased functional nodal efficiency and structural nodal betweenness in the left anterior and median cingulate gyri compared to NC. No group differences in network-level properties were found. Frequency-based amyloid staging revealed four anatomical divisions, including the fusiform and lateral temporal gyri (> 50%), occipital areas (30%-50%), default mode network, the midline brain and lateral frontotemporal areas (10%-30%), and the remaining cortex (< 10%). Global and regional SUVr of the four amyloid stages were positively associated with the node-level properties of a set of default mode network hubs, with the left anterior and posterior cingulate gyri being congruently associated with all amyloid stages.
Conclusion
Individuals with SCD showed increased information exchange efficiency in the left cingulate, with unchanged network-level effectiveness or robustness of a complex network. In this at-risk population, progressive amyloid accumulation across cortical stages continuously influences the adaptation of functional and structural networks via default mode network hubs, irrespective of the local physical proximity of the amyloid pathology. The positive associations between node-level topological properties and amyloid burden suggest an increasing burden of information processing in the cortical hubs during early cortical amyloid deposition in this risk population for Alzheimer's disease.
Prevalence of and factors associated with short birth interval in the semi-rural community of Kaya, Burkina Faso: results of a community-based survey
Authors: Coulibaly Abou , Baguiya Adama , Meda Bertrand Ivlabèhiré , Millogo Tiéba , Koumbem Aristide Marie Arsène , Garanet Franck , Kouanda Seni
Published: June 2024

Background
A short birth interval adversely affects the health of mothers and children. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of short birth intervals and identify their associated factors in a semi-urban setting in Burkina Faso.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study in which data were collected in households between May and October 2022. The dependent variable was the short birth interval (SBI), defined by the World Health Organization as the time between two live births. We performed a multilevel mixed-effects Poisson regression with robust variance to determine the factors associated with the SBI by reporting adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI).
Results
A total of 5544 birth intervals were recorded from 4067 women. A short birth interval was found in 1503 cases out of 5544, i.e., a frequency of 27.1%. The prevalence of short birth interval (time between two live births less than 33 months) was higher in never users of modern contraceptive users (aPR = 1.24; 95% CI [1.14–1.34] vs. previous users), in younger ages with aPR of 4.21 (95% CI [3.30–5.37]), 2.47 (95% CI [1.96–3.11]), and 1.45 (95% CI [1.16–1.81]), respectively for under 18, 18–24 years old, and 25–34 years old, compared to 35 and over. Childbirths occurring before the implementation of the maternal and infant free health care policy (aPR = 2.13; 95% CI [1.98–2.30]) and also before the free FP policy (aPR = 1.53; 95% CI [1.28–1.81]) were found also protective against SBI. Women with low socio-economic positions were more likely to have SBI.
Conclusion
This study found a high SBI in Burkina Faso (more than one woman out of four). Our results have programmatic implications, as some factors, such as contraceptive practice and socioeconomic status, are modifiable. These factors need particular attention to lengthen birth intervals and, in turn, improve mother-child couple health by reducing short birth interval consequences.
Reorganization of Gray Matter Networks in Patients with Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Zhu Huan , Wang Peijiong , Li Wenjie , Zhang Qihang , Zhu Chenyu , Liu Tong , Yu Tao , Liu Xingju , Zhang Qian , Zhao Jizong , Zhang Yan
Published: June 2024

Patients with Moyamoya disease (MMD) exhibit significant alterations in brain structure and function but knowledge regarding gray matter networks is limited. The study enrolled 136 MMD patients and 99 healthy controls (HCs). Clinical characteristics and gray matter network topology were analyzed. Compared to HCs, MMD patients exhibited decreased clustering coefficient (Cp) and local efficiency (Eloc). Ischemic patients showed decreased Eloc and increased characteristic path length (Lp) compared to asymptomatic and hemorrhagic patients. MMD patients had significant regional abnormalities, including decreased degree centrality (DC) in the left medial orbital superior frontal gyrus, left orbital inferior frontal gyrus, and right calcarine fissure and surrounding cortex. Increased DC was found in bilateral olfactory regions, with higher betweenness centrality (BC) in the right median cingulate, paracingulate fusiform gyrus, and left pallidum. Ischemic patients had lower BC in the right hippocampus compared to hemorrhagic patients, while hemorrhagic patients had decreased DC in the right triangular part of the inferior frontal gyrus compared to asymptomatic patients. Subnetworks related to MMD and white matter hyperintensity volume were identified. There is significant reorganization of gray matter networks in patients compared to HCs, and among different types of patients. Gray matter networks can effectively detect MMD-related brain structural changes.
Assessing the physical activity of parents of children suffering from cancer: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ohnmacht Carolin , Niemeyer Charlotte M. , Pahl Antonia , Gollhofer Albert , Puzik Alexander
Published: June 2024

Background
Regular physical activity (PA) is essential for biopsychosocial health, but reduced PA during therapy for childhood cancer increases the burden of long-term side effects. Cancer and its therapy determine the everyday life of affected families, and parents spend plenty of time with their child in the hospital. Thus, we assumed that the restriction of the movement environment affects the parents' PA-behavior. Meanwhile, parents have a pronounced influence on their child's PA-behavior. This is the first study to investigate the PA and sitting time (ST) of parents before and during their child's cancer therapy.
Methods
Forty parents provided their consent and participated in the study between September 2021 and February 2022. Parental PA and ST were assessed before and during their child's cancer therapy in a cross-sectional design using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). The questionnaire was supplemented with additional self-generated questions. Analysis of variance was applied using IBM SPSS Statistics. The Ethics Committee of the University of Freiburg approved the study.
Results
The parents' PA-levels before their child's diagnosis corresponded with reference values of healthy adults. During their child's therapy, all dimensions of parental daily PA and the number of Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET)-minutes of PA per week decreased significantly. Especially during inpatient stays, PA decreased (mean ± SD: from 3004.5 ± 2301.4 to 889.1 ± 1585.1; p < 0.001), with a significant increase in ST in minutes per workday (mean ± SD: from 329.3 ± 196.6 to 687.8 ± 268.8; p < 0.001).
Conclusions
This is the first study to show that the PA of parents of children suffering from cancer significantly decreases during cancer therapy. Considering that parental PA can significantly affect their child's behavior during and after completion of cancer therapy, exercise programs in pediatric oncology should expand and include parents to reduce inactivity-related long-term side effects.
Trial registration:
German Register of Clinical Trials No.: DRKS00026248, prospectively registered on 17/09/2021.
Transarterial therapy combined with bevacizumab plus immune checkpoint inhibitors as a neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yang Zhenyun , Wang Qianyu , Hu Li , Sima Xiaoxian , Hu Dandan , Zhou Zhongguo , Chen Minshan , Fu Yizhen , Zhang Yaojun
Published: June 2024

Background
Transarterial therapy (TAT), bevacizumab (Bev), and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have individually exhibited efficacy in treating advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of the combination of these three treatments as a neoadjuvant modality in patients with locally advanced HCC.
Methods
The primary endpoint is overall survival (OS). The second endpoint is progression free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), pathological response rate and safety.
Results
A total of 54 patients received standard systemic therapy comprising Bev combined with ICIs (Bev-ICIs group), 113 patients received direct surgery (Surgery group), and 273 patients received neoadjuvant therapy of TAT combined Bev plus ICIs, among which 79 patients (28.9%) underwent surgical resection after successful tumor downstaging (Neo-surgery group) while the remaining 194 patients (71.1%) received maintenance systemic therapies (Neo-maintenance group). Neoadjuvant following surgery demonstrated a prolonged OS in contrast to direct surgery (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.29, P = 0.0058). The median PFS time in the Neo-surgery and Surgery groups stood at 19.2 and 6.3 months, respectively (HR = 0.25, P < 0.0001). In patients failed to receiving resection after neoadjuvant therapy, the median OS was 22.8 months, whereas that for the standard care population was 19.7 month (HR = 0.53, P = 0.023). The median PFS time in Neo-maintenance group and Bev-ICIs groups was 11.2 and 6.4 months (HR = 0.60, P = 0.024).
Conclusion
The triple therapy regimen comprising TAT-Bev-ICIs emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as a neoadjuvant intervention.
Does gross motor proficiency contribute to cognitive and social development in early childhood?
Authors: Capio Catherine M. , Mendoza Norman B. , Jones Rachel A. , Masters Rich S.W. , Lee Kerry
Published: June 2024

With limited evidence from intervention studies, causal relationships between motor competence and cognitive and social development have yet to be clearly established. In this research, we investigated whether a targeted training programme to improve gross motor skills (i.e., object control, locomotor) in young children would also lead to improvements in cognitive (i.e., executive function) and social (i.e., socioemotional competence) domains. Using a two-arm group randomized intervention design, 185 children aged 36 to 60 months (mean 47.51, SD 8.11 months) were allocated to a motor skill intervention group or an active control group. The intervention was implemented over one school year, and outcomes were monitored across five time points. Longitudinal analysis was performed using hierarchical linear mixed-effects and latent growth curve models. Participation in motor skills training led to higher rates of development in object control skills (p < 0.001) and executive function (p < 0.001). A dose‒response relationship was found where those children who displayed greater development in object control skills over time also displayed greater development in executive function (p = 0.001). We found no significant effects of the intervention on locomotor skills, social behaviors, or socioemotional competence. These findings provide evidence of a causal relationship between motor and cognitive development.
Comparison of short-term outcomes following robotic ventral hernia repair in patients with obesity: a review of 9,742 patients from the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative database
Authors: Taylor Jordan , Lopez-Canizares Nicole , Valor Cristhian , Arias-Espinoza Luis , Phillips Sharon , Pereira Xavier , Damani Tanuja , Malcher Flavio
Published: June 2024

Background
Despite the paucity of evidence on robotic ventral hernia repair (RVHR) in patients with obesity, the robotic platform is being used more frequently in hernia surgery. The impact of obesity on RVHR outcomes has not been thoroughly studied. Obesity is considered a major risk factor for the development of recurrent ventral hernias and postoperative complications; however, we hypothesize that patients undergoing robotic repairs will have similar complication profiles despite their body mass index (BMI).
Study design:
We performed a retrospective analysis of patients ages 18–90 years who underwent RVHR between 2013–2023 using data from the Abdominal Core Health Quality Collaborative registry. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics were compared in non-obese and obese groups, determined using a univariate and logistic regression analysis to compare short-term outcomes.
Results
The registry identified 9,742 patients; 3,666 were non-obese; 6,076 were classified as obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2). There was an increased odds of surgical site occurrence in patients with obesity, mostly seroma formation; however, obesity was not a significant factor for a complication requiring a procedural intervention after RVHR. In contrast, the hernia-specific quality of life scores significantly improved following surgery for all patients, with those with obesity having more substantial improvement from baseline.
Conclusion
Obesity does increase the risk of complications following RVHR in a BMI-dependent fashion on sub-analysis; however, the odds of requiring a procedural intervention are not significantly increased by BMI. Patients with obesity have a significant improvement in their quality of life, and RVHR should be carefully considered in this population.
Morphophysiological and Antioxidant Responses of some Obscure Grape Cultivars from the Caspian Basin under Varying Water Deficit Conditions
Authors: Seidi Azar , Seifi Esmaeil , Rasoli Valiollah
Published: June 2024

The study investigated the effects of water deficit on the morphophysiological and antioxidant responses of some Obscure Grape Cultivars from the Caspian Basin. As water deficit increased, shoot length, leaf fresh and dry weights decreased, with the lowest values observed under the 40% field capacity (FC) treatment. Interestingly, the MY cultivar maintained the highest total chlorophyll content in the 70% FC treatment. Cultivar and water deficit also had significant main effects on internode length and lateral shoot length. The BS cultivar exhibited the highest internode length but the lowest lateral shoot length. Water deficit treatments reduced internode length and drastically decreased lateral shoot length, with the 40% FC treatment having the lowest lateral shoot length. Water deficit treatments significantly affected stem diameter, lateral shoot number, and canopy temperature. The 40% FC treatment resulted in the lowest stem diameter and lateral shoot number, while displaying the highest canopy temperature. Relative water content (RWC) of leaves and roots, and membrane stability index (MSI) decreased with increasing water deficit. The QR and CH cultivars maintained the highest leaf and root RWC under water deficit, while the CH cultivar had the lowest MSI. Leaf and root proline content, total protein, and hydrogen peroxide showed significant interaction effects between cultivar and water deficit. Antioxidant enzyme activities increased with drought stress, and the MY, KH, and QR cultivars exhibited distinct responses. Based on their performance under drought stress, the studied cultivars were ranked, with MY being the most tolerant, followed by KH and QR.
Anatomical fit of volar locking plates for the distal radius and the influence of plate size
Authors: Hasegawa Hiroshi , Sato Kotaro , Murakami Kenya , Saino Tomoyuki , Doita Minoru
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The volar locking plate system is the standard surgical treatment for patients with unstable distal radius fractures. Volar locking plates are currently available in different shapes and 2–3 size options. In this study, we investigated whether the anatomical fit and plate size of volar locking plates affect their proper placement.
Methods
Two sizes of Acu-Loc2 Proximal Plates (AcuLoc), three sizes of Variable Angle LCP Two-Column Volar Distal Radius Plate 2.4 (VALCP), and 16 formalin-fixed cadaver specimens were studied. The plates and forearms were scanned using computed tomography. The plate was fixed to a radius within the watershed line, and radiographs were obtained using fluoroscopy. X-rays were superimposed, and a three-dimensional image of the plate and bone was created. The distance from the plate to the volar surface of each distal locking hole (PBD) was measured. To investigate the anatomical fitting of the plate, the contact area between the bone and plate was analyzed on three-dimensional images. We measured the distance between the distal end of the plate and the watershed line in three-dimensional images, defining it as watershed overlap.
Results
The PBD in the radial column was significantly smaller than that in the ulnar column in the narrow and standard VALCP and narrow in the AcuLoc. For the other plates, the PBD in the radial column tended to be smaller than that in the ulnar column. The contact area was 6.6–20.0% of the plate. The average value of the watershed overlap was negative for both plates. However, no significant differences were observed in PBD, contact area, or watershed overlap among the plate sizes for either plate.
Conclusion
Although the small plate size affected the fitting to the distal radius, the variance was small; therefore, each plate size may be selected depending on the circumstances of the fracture.
Tirofiban for Reduction of Thromboembolic Events in Endovascular Unruptured Aneurysm Repair (TEAR): Rationale and Design of a Randomized Trial
Authors: Jiang Qianmei , Jiang Sili , Liu Qi , Wang Zhaobin , Zhang Zhe , Liu Xinyao , Chen Shuo , Jing Jing , Liu Lian
Published: June 2024

Backgrounds and Objective: New embolic events following stent-assisted coiling (SAC) and flow diverting (FD) procedures for unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIA) pose a significant challenge, and the optimal perioperative antithrombotic approach remains inconsistent. This trial aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of tirofiban in reducing new diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)-positive ischemic lesions following SAC/FD for UIA.
Hypothesis: Compared to standard medical care alone, the prophylactic addition of tirofiban can reduce the DWI-positive ischemic lesions following SAC/FD for UIA without increasing the risk of bleeding.
Methods: The Tirofiban for reduction of Thromboembolic Events in Endovascular unruptured Aneurysm Repair (TEAR) trial is an investigator-initiated, two-armed (1:1), prospective, randomized, open-label, masked-endpoint, superiority study. A total of 192 UIA patients receiving SAC/FD at a national stroke center will be recruited and randomized into two groups: Tirofiban group—after the femoral artery puncture, initial infusion of 0.4μg/kg/minute over 30 minutes, followed by a continuous infusion of 0.1μg/kg/minute for 24 hours. Meanwhile, routine dual antiplatelet therapy will be administered. Control group—routine dual antiplatelet therapy. The 3-T thin-slice (2mm) MRI, including diffusion weighted imaging, will be arranged for all participants within 48 hours after interventional therapy.
Outcomes: The primary efficacy outcome is the number and volume of ischemic lesions on postoperative DWI within 48 hours following the procedure. The secondary efficacy outcomes include any new strokes, ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack at postoperative 48-hour and 30-day, and disabling stroke at 30-day. The primary safety outcome is moderate and severe bleeding events, according to the GUSTO (Global Utilization of Streptokinase and Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Occluded Coronary Arteries) criteria, within 48 hours of postoperative.
Discussion: TEAR-trial will be the first randomized controlled trial to provide evidence-based recommendations for triple antiplatelet therapy (routine dual antiplatelet combined with tirofiban) to reduce DWI-positive lesions in patients with UIA who underwent SAC and FD.
Trial registration: NCT06238115.
Post-Disaster Damage and Loss Assessment in the Iranian Healthcare Sector: A qualitative study
Authors: Miri Javad , Atighechian Golrokh , Seyedin Hesam , Raeisi Ahmad Reza
Published: June 2024

Background Accurate post-disaster damage and loss assessment is critical for the success of a subsequent recovery program. A comprehensive and systematic damage and loss assessment process involves the evaluation of the physical damage and financial impact of an event on individuals, communities, and assets. To ensure effective recovery, various entities and components included in the program must be developed appropriately and efficiently. This study aims to identify the entities and components of the Iranian healthcare sector's post-disaster damage and loss assessment program. Methods This qualitative study employed purposeful sampling and semi-structured individual interviews with participants from the National Disaster Management Organization, the Iranian Red Crescent, and the disaster risk management departments of the Ministry of Health and the medical universities. The interviews were conducted face-to-face at the participants' workplaces or remotely. Thematic analysis, which is a conventional qualitative method, was employed to analyse the data. Following the transcription of the recorded interviews, the initial codes were extracted, reviewed, and classified. Results The study's results are based on the insights and experiences of a diverse group of qualified experts in their respective fields. The findings were analyzed and classified into 10 main themes, 30 sub-themes, and 1058 codes. Conclusion An understanding of the key concepts and principles enables stakeholders to respond effectively to disasters, make informed decisions, and facilitate recovery and reconstruction efforts.
Perceptual Attention and Subjective Belief about Risk Alters Heartbeat-evoked Response
Authors: Bong Su Hyun , Yoon Dayoung , Kim Jaewon , Jeong Bumseok
Published: June 2024

Heartbeat-evoked responses (HER) can be interpreted as prediction error signals modified by precision, which in turn are influenced by interoceptive attention. However, changes in interoceptive information processing that occur while computing or focusing on uncertain external environments have yet to be explored. This study examines alterations in HER driven by both interoceptive and exteroceptive attention. We suggest that variations in HER under different conditions could serve as unique neurobiological markers for individuals. Through behavioral modeling and electroencephalogram analysis, we verified HER changes when modifying subjective beliefs based on calculated risk from the external environment. This study demonstrates that the brain’s response to interoceptive information transcends mere sensation representation, instead reflecting subjective beliefs regarding one’s body and the external environment.
Internet Use, Depression and Elderly Well-Being in China
Authors: Wang Xuehui
Published: June 2024

Background With China's rapidly aging population and increasing elderly internet users, the study aims to investigate the relationship between internet usage and subjective well-being among older Chinese adults, focusing on the mediating role of depression. The research is set against the backdrop of China's elderly population growth and the widespread adoption of the internet, which has been linked to mental health benefits such as reduced loneliness and increased social support.
Methods The study utilizes data from the 2020 China Family Panel Study (CFPS), employing a path model to analyze the mediating effect of depression on the association between internet use and subjective well-being. The sample size, after exclusion criteria, was 4671 participants aged 60 or above. Subjective well-being was measured by happiness, internet use by mobile or computer access, and depression by the CESD scale. Parent-child relationship quality and other covariates were also assessed.
Results The findings indicate that frequent internet use is positively associated with higher levels of subjective well-being in older adults. Depression was identified as a significant mediator, suggesting that internet use can enhance subjective well-being by reducing depressive symptoms. The study also found gender differences, with internet use having a more pronounced effect on male participants' well-being.
Conclusions The research concludes that internet use is beneficial for the subjective well-being of older adults, particularly for those with depressive symptoms. The study suggests that improving internet skills and access for the elderly could be integral to mental health promotion strategies and overall well-being enhancement in later life. The findings highlight the importance of considering depression as a mediating factor in the context of internet use and well-being among the elderly population.
The effect of prenatal education on exclusive breastfeeding among women in Quito. Prospective cohort study
Authors: Tello Betzabé , Hernández Herminio , Dueñas-Espín Iván , Tejera Eduardo
Published: June 2024

Background: Breast milk is the optimal food for humans, however, many mothers encounter difficulties sustaining exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). Prenatal education (PE) has been suggested as a potential strategy to promote EBF. There remains a gap in understanding how PE influences EBF duration.
Methods: This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the effect of PE on EBF continuation among mothers who gave birth in private and public hospitals in Quito, Ecuador. A total of 278 participants were recruited, with 152 receiving PE and 126 not receiving it. Data was collected through structured surveys. Baseline clinical information was obtained through face-to-face interviews conducted after delivery and before discharge. Then, follow-up telephone interviews were conducted at one, four, and six months postpartum.
Results: Comparisons between the exposed (PE) and unexposed groups revealed significant differences in education level, health insurance, antenatal care visits, rooming-in rates, parity, and maternal breastfeeding (BF) intentions. Participants who received PE demonstrated a significantly longer mean duration of EBF compared to those who did not (89.4 ± 77.2 days vs. 66.1 ± 70.2 days, p = 0.004). The incidence rate of EBF abandonment was 11.81 per 100 person-months in the PE group and 14.91 per 100 person-months in the non-PE group. Cox survival analysis indicated a lower risk of EBF cessation among mothers who received PE (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.40-0.84, p = 0.004). Other factors associated with EBF discontinuation included delivery at a public health facility, postpartum depression, specific reasons for stopping BF, insufficient supply, return to work, healthcare provider recommendations, family advice, and negative BF experiences.
Conclusion: Standardized PE programs have a significant and independent positive impact on EBF duration among mothers in Quito, Ecuador. These findings underscore the importance of integrating PE into routine prenatal care and providing comprehensive postpartum support to promote BF continuation. It is necessary to develop targeted interventions to address modifiable risk factors for BF cessation.
Individual and neighborhood determinants of depressive symptoms in ethnic minorities in the urban HELIUS sample: a multi-level network perspective
Authors: Huth Karoline , Wal Junus van der , Zavlis Orestis , Luigjes Judy , Lakerveld Jeroen , Galenkamp Henrike , Lok Anja , Stronks Karien , Bockting Claudi , Marsman Maarten , Goudriaan Anneke , Holst Ruth van
Published: June 2024

Ethnic minorities in Europe experience an increased risk of depressive symptomatology. This is believed to be the result of the interplay between different factors at the individual (e.g., psychological, socioeconomic, cultural) and the neighborhood level (e.g., social cohesion, resources, ethnic diversity). This study sheds light on the interplay between variables using cross-sectional data from 13,507 individuals from five ethnic minority groups from the Healthy Life in Urban Setting (HELIUS) study in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. We developed a novel multilevel network analysis to explore the conditional associations between factors of interest for the entire group, and deviations from these effects for each ethnic subgroup.
Across all groups, unemployment, perceived stress, and adverse experiences were most strongly connected to depressive symptoms, while other individual factors such as perceived ethnic discrimination were connected indirectly.
While individual psychological factors remain the strongest predictors of depressive symptomatology, socio-demographic and cultural determinants underly these psychological factors.
Cytogenomic and phylogenomic evidence for new infrageneric relationships in Macroptilium (Benth.) beans
Authors: Montenegro Claudio , Ibiapino Amália , Nascimento Thiago , Costa Antônio Félix da , Brasileiro-Vidal Ana Christina , Pedrosa-Harand Andrea
Published: June 2024

Macroptilium (Benth.) Urb. is a forage genus native to regions from North to South America. Phylogenetic analyses place it close to Phaseolus L., but its infrageneric division into two sections is not well supported. Despite its chromosomal number stability (2n = 22), interspecific rDNA loci variation enabled species differentiation, suggesting that a cytogenomic approach might be valuable for inferring species relationships and genome evolution. Here, we (1) characterized nine Macroptilium species through oligonucleotide-based chromosome painting and barcoding (Oligo-FISH); (2) generated genome skimming data for six species and used it to investigate their repeatome dynamics, and (3) performed phylogenomic reconstruction using complete plastomes. Oligo-FISH data unveiled de novotranslocations between chromosomes 2 and 6, and 3 and 11 in species from proposed groups II and III, respectively, in disagreement with the currently proposed phylogenetic hypothesis. Our phylogenomic (plastid) and repeatome (nuclear) analyses supported groups II and III as clades, with shared satDNA families. Group I was paraphyletic and resembled the Ancestral Phaseolinae Karyotype. We demonstrated the efficiency of different cytogenomic approaches to characterize Macroptilium species, providing insights into its genomic evolution and indicating the need for a systematic re-evaluation of the genus. These findings also support the power of these approaches to solve phylogenetic relationships even in groups with chromosome number stability and recent diversification.
Advancement in Healthcare System: AL, ML, and Blockchain for Personalized Genomic Applications
Authors: Garg Hari Krishna
Published: June 2024

Individual genome projects have not been discussed in quite some time, possibly for various reasons. However, despite best efforts, there remains a need to establish a means by which individuals can benefit from the reference genome—a significant outcome of the Human Genome Project—and effectively utilize it. In light of this, a personalized genomic application has been visualized as a potent transformative tool accessible to people globally. An integrated framework has been proposed that melds blockchain technology, genome-tailored applications, and data compression techniques to ensure swift, secure, transparent, and space-efficient operations.
This software leverages advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning methodologies, including neural networks, fuzzy logic, and expert systems, to process individual genomic data. Reports are then generated based on insights gleaned from the user's genome, compared to a reference genome to detect any disparities. Given the security, encryption, and immutability features of blockchain technology, it proves apt for both data transport and storage. Moreover, a technique called 'Data Abbreviation' has been devised to ensure that genetic data and generated reports occupy less space. All of this could contribute to a transformative step toward the greater good of humanity.
Integrating Marketing Channels into Quantile Transformation and Bayesian Optimization of Ensemble Kernels for Sales Prediction with Gaussian Process Models
Authors: Mirshekari Shahin , Motedayen Negin Hayeri , Ensaf Mohammad
Published: June 2024

This study introduces an innovative Gaussian Process (GP) model utilizing an ensemble kernel that integrates Radial Basis Function (RBF), Rational Quadratic, and Matérn kernels for product sales forecasting. By applying Bayesian optimization, we efficiently find the optimal weights for each kernel, enhancing the model’s ability to handle complex sales data patterns. Our approach significantly outperforms traditional GP models, achieving a notable 98% accuracy and superior performance across key metrics including Mean Squared Error (MSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), and Coefficient of Determination (R2). This advancement underscores the effectiveness of ensemble kernels and Bayesian optimization in improving predictive accuracy, offering profound implications for machine learning applications in sales forecasting.
The therapeutic features of EGFR L858R exon 21 mutation in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Mandrina M. O. , Barbolina T. D. , Vladimirova L. Yu. , Storozhakova A. E. , Laktionov K. K.
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Monotherapy with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) results in a worse prognosis for patients with the exon 21 L858R mutation than for patients with exon 19 Del. Thus, the search for alternative drug strategies that improve treatment outcomes for patients with NSCLC with the L858R mutation is an urgent problem. This article presents preliminary results of a pilot study of the effectiveness of chemotherapy integrated into targeted anti-EGFR therapy for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with a mutation in exon 21 of the EGFR gene.

Aim. To improve progression-free survival results on first-line therapy in patients with NSCLC with the L858R mutation.

Materials and methods. From 2015 to 2021 23 patients were included in the study with advanced L858R 21 exon mutation NSCLC for the first line of treatment. Patients received TKI therapy for the first 2 months, followed by discontinuation of targeted therapy and receiving 3 courses of paclitaxel and carboplatin. Target therapy was then resumed until disease progression. The follow up period was 36 months.

Results. The objective response rate (ORR) was 59.1%. Median progression-free survival 23 months [95% CI: 16–36]. Four (18.1%) patients developed grade 3-4 toxicity during chemotherapy, and therefore the 3rd course of chemotherapy was canceled in one patient. Due to toxicity during targeted therapy, gefitinib dose was reduced in one patient and the drug was changed from gefitinib to afatinib in the other one patient.

Conclusion. Preliminary results of our study showed that integrating chemotherapy into targeted treatment for this category of patients may become a new worthy option to increase median PFS.
Implementasi manajemen pengetahuan menggunakan model SECI di Perpustakaan Universitas Islam Negeri Walisongo Semarang
Authors: Nugraheni Nurul , Bakhri Syaiful , Alam Umar Falahul , Ahwan Muh Ahlis
Published: June 2024

Purpose. This research aims to determine knowledge management using the SECI Model in the UIN Walisongo Library and determine the obstacles in implementing knowledge management in the UIN Walisongo Semarang Library.Methodology. This research uses qualitative research methods with data collection techniques through interviews, field observations, and documentation from the library. Researchers conducted interviews with the head of the library, librarians and several students. Data validity techniques use source triangulation and method triangulation. The data analysis techniques used are: data reduction, data presentation, drawing conclusions.Results and discussion. The results and discussion of this research show that, 1) Management knowledge at the UIN Walisongo Semarang Library using SECI model analysis including the socialization stage carried out in internal external libraries, externalization stage includes writing and library service innovation, combination stage includes organizing catalogs, repositories, and documents, stages Internalization includes workshop activities, benchmarking, and seminar. 2) Barriers to implementing knowledge management in There are two factors in the UIN Walisongo library, namely factors internal and external libraries.Conclusions. UIN Walisongo Semarang Library uses the SECI model in managing knowledge (socialization, externalization, combination, internalization) but faces challenges such as diverse individual abilities, lack of librarians and no regeneration, as well as low awareness of student knowledge documentation and information literacy. The recommendations include encouraging knowledge exchange between staff, developing social media innovations to facilitate access, and contributing to library and information science studies to increase digital era literacy and maximize library services.
Bir Diyalog Ortamı Olarak Üretken Yapay Zeka: Tasarımda Anlamsal Arayış Sürecinin Temsili
Authors: Ozar Betül , Koca Duygu
Published: June 2024

Tasarım süreci, birbirine bağlı ve yinelemeli adımlar içeren döngüsel bir yapıya sahiptir. Üretken yapay zekâ, tasarlayan ile diyalog kurarak tasarım sürecine yeni bir ortam önerir. Bu ortam, süreçteki ilişkilerin keşfine izin verir ve döngüsel yaklaşımın deneyimlenmesine olanak sağlar. Çalışma bu doğrultuda, üretken yapay zekânın temsil üretebilme potansiyeli üzerine odaklanır ve “üretken yapay zekâ, kavramsal ve biçimsel ilişkilerin keşfedildiği anlamsal arayış sürecinde bir ortam olarak kullanılabilir mi?” sorusunu araştırır. Çalışmada ‘uygulama odaklı’ (practice-led) araştırma yöntemi benimsenmiştir. Bu kapsamda bir süreç deneyini içeren çalışma, üretileni temsil etmek yerine temsille üretmeye odaklanır. Metinden imgeye ve imgeden imgeye olmak üzere iki fazdan oluşan süreç, üretken yapay zekânın olanaklarını ve kısıtlarını görebilmek için bir araştırma ve keşif ortamı olarak kullanılmıştır. Sonuç olarak tasarlayan özne ve üretken yapay zekâ iş birliğinde tek tıklamayla donuk görseller oluşturmak yerine devingen temsillerin üretilebileceği anlaşılmıştır. Bu anlayış, yeni bir ortamın tanımını üretirken gelecekteki benzer deneyimlerin yorumlanabilmesine zemin hazırlar.
Gestalt İlkeleri Perspektifinden Pareidolia Temalı Afiş Tasarımlarının Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: Üstündağ Emine Nilüfer
Published: June 2024

Bu araştırma, pareidolia fenomeninin reklam afişlerindeki kullanımını Gestalt ilkeleri perspektifinden incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Pareidolia bir tür illüzyon olup; ses, görüntü gibi belirsiz, rastgele uyaranlardan tanıdık desen, nesne veya anlam çıkarma eğilimidir. Gestalt ilkeleri ise algısal psikoloji alanında tamamlama, bütünlük, süreklilik, basitlik, yakınlık, benzerlik, şekil-zemin ilişkisi gibi insan algısını şekillendiren temel prensipleri ifade eder. Araştırma kapsamında öncelikle pareidolia kavramı açıklanacak, görsel iletişim tasarımında nasıl yaratıcı bir iletişim yöntemi olarak kullanılabileceği açıklığa kavuşturulmaya çalışılacaktır. Ardından Gestalt kavramı ve ilkelerinin ne olduğu, reklam afişlerindeki pareidolia kullanımının bu ilkelerle nasıl ilişkilendirilebileceği incelenecektir. Gestalt ilkelerinin pareidolia içeren afişlerde nasıl işlendiği ve izleyici algısını nasıl etkilediği üzerinde durulacaktır. Araştırmanın kapsamını pareidolik ifadeler oluştururken, örneklemde ise yüz pareidoliasını içeren afiş tasarımları analiz edilecektir. Çalışmanın amacına dayalı olarak ayrıntılı bir betimleme sağlamak için betimsel analiz yöntemi kullanılacaktır. Makale, Gestalt ilkelerinin pareidolia temalı afiş tasarımlarının etkili bir şekilde tasarlanmasına nasıl katkı sağlayabileceğini tartışarak, görsel iletişim tasarımı alanında yaratıcı bir bakış açısı sunmayı hedeflemektedir.
Scientific substantiation of average annual maximum permissible level of vanadium pentoxide in ambient air as per permissible health risk
Authors:   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya St., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Chetverkina K.V. ,   E.A. Vagner’s Perm State Medical University, 26 Petropavlovskaya St., Perm, 614000, Russian Federation, Savostikova P.Z. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya St., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation
Published: June 2024

Relevance of this study is determined by the sanitary-epidemiological legislation of the Russian Federation with stipulated requirements to create hygiene standards for environmental factors ensuring their safety for people. These hygienic standards should guarantee absence of impermissible lifetime health risks. Divanadium pentoxide is a chemical that should be mandatorily regulated in ambient air under long-term exposure due to its wide prevalence and high toxicity. An average annual MPL for divanadium pentoxide was established by using systemic analysis of research literature and regulatory documents. According to selection results, three key epidemiological studies were taken for further analysis. They provided evidence of adverse effects produced by divanadium pentoxide on human health (the respiratory organs in particular) under chronic inhalation exposure. When analyzing a study design, we paid special attention to description of observation groups, values of exposure and nature of its effects, adverse health outcomes caused by exposure to divanadium pentoxide as well as to a type and a value of a point of departure. We calculated a value of the total (complex) uncertainty factor in order to establish an average annual maximum permissible level of the analyzed chemical. As a result, we suggest a scientifically substantiated (among other things, as per permissible health risk levels) average annual maximum permissible level for divanadium pentoxide, which equals 0.0001 mg/m3. This level is safe for human health under lifetime exposure. It is noteworthy that this level corresponds to ‘low uncertainty’, which indicates its high safety for human health.
Assessment of public health risks caused by phthalates migrating from polymer material to bottled water
Authors:   North-West Public Health Research Center, 4 2nd Sovetskaya St., Saint-Petersburg, 191036, Russian Federation, Shilov V.V. ,   North-Western State Medical University named after I. I. Mechnikov, 41 Kirochnaya St., Saint-Petersburg, 191015, Russian Federation, Markova O.L. ,   North-West Public Health Research Center, 4 2nd Sovetskaya St., Saint-Petersburg, 191036, Russian Federation, Zaritskaya E.V. ,   North-West Public Health Research Center, 4 2nd Sovetskaya St., Saint-Petersburg, 191036, Russian Federation, Isaev D.S. ,   North-West Public Health Research Center, 4 2nd Sovetskaya St., Saint-Petersburg, 191036, Russian Federation, Petrova M.D. ,   North-West Public Health Research Center, 4 2nd Sovetskaya St., Saint-Petersburg, 191036, Russian Federation
Published: June 2024

At present, consumption of packaged drinking water is growing worldwide. In this regard, ensuring packaged drinking water safety, which directly depends on the composition and quality of used polymer materials, is becoming especially relevant. Bottles made of polymer materials, i.e. polyethylene terephthalate and polycarbonate, is the most common packaging for drinking water. The aim of this study was to assess population health risks caused by exposure to phthalates migrating from polymer bottles into drinking water. The study was carried out according to the requirements of the Customs Union Technical Regulation… on packaging and Instruction... on sanitary-chemical study of goods. Bottles and model media were analyzed using gas chromatography with mass-spectrometric detection. Risk assessment was performed according to the current guidelines. The study findings allow to report the following phthalate levels in bottle samples: di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), 1.7–4.2 mg/kg; di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), <2.4–31.3 mg/kg; diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP), 2.2–10.2 mg/kg. Phthalate migration into model media occurred from all analyzed samples: DEHP and DiBP migrated from Polyethylene terephthalate in quantities equal to 8.6–71.0 µg/l and from < 2.6 to 19.2 µg/l respectively; DEHP, DnBP, and DiBP migrated from polycarbonate, 31.5–43.5 µg/l, 4.8–6.2 µg/l, and 17.0–54.0 µg/l, respectively. The identified phthalate levels are safe according to the performed assessment of health risks associated with chronic intake of harmful substances with drinking water. The values of the estrogenicity equivalent calculated for the analyzed phthalates in model samples of bottled water were seen at a minimum level in Russian Federation as compared to other countries. The results of this study can be used in safety assessment of polymer bottles for drinking water.