bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral ulcer treatment using human tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells encapsulated in trimethyl chitosan hydrogel: an animal model study
Authors: Ryu Hyun Seok , Abueva Celine , Padalhin Andrew , Park So Young , Yoo Seung Hyeon , Seo Hwee Hyon , Chung Phil-Sang , Woo Seung Hoon
Published: April 2024

Background

Oral ulcers are a common side effect of chemotherapy and affect patients’ quality of life. While stem cell transplantation is a potential treatment for oral ulcers, its efficacy is limited as the stem cells tend to remain in the affected area for a short time. This study aims to develop a treatment for oral ulcers by using trimethyl chitosan (TMC) hydrogel with human tonsil-derived stem cells (hTMSCs) to increase the therapeutic effect of stem cells and investigate their effectiveness.

Methods

Animals were divided into four experimental groups: Control, TMC hydrogel, hTMSCs, and hTMSCs loaded in TMC hydrogel (Hydrogel + hTMSCs) (each n = 8). Oral ulcers were chemically induced by anesthetizing the rats followed by injection of dilute acetic acid in the right buccal mucosa. After confirming the presence of oral ulcers in the animals, a single subcutaneous injection of 100 µL of each treatment was applied to the ulcer area. Histological analyses were performed to measure inflammatory cells, oral mucosal thickness, and fibrosis levels. The expression level of inflammatory cytokines was also measured using RT-PCR to gauge therapeutic the effect.

Results

The ulcer size was significantly reduced in the TMC hydrogel + hTMSCs group compared to the control group. The stem cells in the tissue were only observed until Day 3 in the hTMSCs treated group, while the injected stem cells in the TMC Hydrogel + hTMSCs group were still present until day 7. Cytokine analysis related to the inflammatory response in the tissue confirmed that the TMC Hydrogel + hTMSCs treated group demonstrated superior wound healing compared to other experimental groups.

Conclusion

This study has shown that the adhesion and viability of current stem cell therapies can be resolved by utilizing a hydrogel prepared with TMC and combining it with hTMSCs. The combined treatment can promote rapid healing of oral cavity wounds by enhancing anti-inflammatory effects and expediting wound healing. Therefore, hTMSC loaded in TMC hydrogel was the most effective wound-healing approach among all four treatment groups prolonging stem cell survival. However, further research is necessary to minimize the initial inflammatory response of biomaterials and assess the safety and long-term effects for potential clinical applications.
Combination of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and moxibustion restores cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian insufficiency by improving mitochondrial function and regulating mitophagy
Authors: Lu Ge , Li Hong-xiao , Song Zi-wei , Luo Jia , Fan Yan-liang , Yin Yao-li , Shen Jie , Shen Mei-hong
Published: April 2024

Background

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a major cause of infertility. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the combination of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and moxibustion (BMSCs-MOX) on POI and evaluate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

A POI rat model was established by injecting different doses of cyclophosphamide (Cy). The modeling of POI and the effects of the treatments were assessed by evaluating estrous cycle, serum hormone levels, ovarian weight, ovarian index, and ovarian histopathological analysis. The effects of moxibustion on BMSCs migration were evaluated by tracking DiR-labeled BMSCs and analyzing the expression of chemokines stromal cell-derived factor 1 (Sdf1) and chemokine receptor type 4 (Cxcr4). Mitochondrial function and mitophagy were assessed by measuring the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), ATP, and the mitophagy markers (Drp1, Pink1, and Parkin). Furthermore, the mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi-1 and the mitophagy activator CCCP were used to confirm the role of mitophagy in Cy-induced ovarian injury and the underlying mechanism of combination therapy.

Results

A suitable rat model of POI was established using Cy injection. Compared to moxibustion or BMSCs transplantation alone, BMSCs-MOX showed improved outcomes, such as reduced estrous cycle disorders, improved ovarian weight and index, normalized serum hormone levels, increased ovarian reserve, and reduced follicle atresia. Moxibustion enhanced Sdf1 and Cxcr4 expression, promoting BMSCs migration. BMSCs-MOX reduced ROS levels; upregulated MMP and ATP levels in ovarian granulosa cells (GCs); and downregulated Drp1, Pink1, and Parkin expression in ovarian tissues. Mdivi-1 significantly mitigated mitochondrial dysfunction in ovarian GCs and improved ovarian function. CCCP inhibited the ability of BMSCs-MOX treatment to regulate mitophagy and ameliorate Cy-induced ovarian injury.

Conclusions

Moxibustion enhanced the migration and homing of BMSCs following transplantation and improves their ability to repair ovarian damage. The combination of BMSCs and moxibustion effectively reduced the excessive activation of mitophagy, which helped prevent mitochondrial damage, ultimately improving ovarian function. These findings provide a novel approach for the treatment of pathological ovarian aging and offer new insights into enhancing the efficacy of stem cell therapy for POI patients.

Graphical abstract
A cloud-edge collaborative task scheduling method based on model segmentation
Authors: Zhang Chuanfu , Chen Jing , Li Wen , Sun Hao , Geng Yudong , Zhang Tianxiang , Ji Mingchao , Fu Tonglin
Published: April 2024

With the continuous development and combined application of cloud computing and artificial intelligence, some new methods have emerged to reduce task execution time for training neural network models in a cloud-edge collaborative environment. The most attractive method is neural network model segmentation. However, many factors affect the segmentation point, such as resource allocation, system energy consumption, load balancing, and network Bandwidth allocation. Some segmentation methods consider the shortest task execution time, which ignores the utilization of resources at the edge and can result in resource waste. Additionally, these factors are difficult to measure, which presents a challenge in calculating the best segmentation point to achieve the goal of maximum resource utilization and minimum task execution time. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a cloud-edge collaborative task scheduling method based on model segmentation (CECMS). This method first analyzes the factors affecting the segmentation point of the model and then obtains accurate factors that affect the segmentation point calculation through the pre-execution method. Furthermore, a multi-objective solution algorithm is improved to calculate the optimal model segmentation point. And tasks are separately offloaded to the edge and cloud based on the optimal model segmentation point. Finally, the experiments are conducted to verify the effectiveness of this method. Finally, the effectiveness of the CECMS method was verified through simulation experiments. Compared with the Dynamic Adaptive DNN Surgery (DADS) method and an adaptive DNN inference acceleration framework algorithm with end–edge–cloud collaborative computing algorithm (ADC), CECMS achieves the same effectiveness as DADS and ADC in optimizing task execution time by comprehensively considering the utilization of edge resources and minimizing task execution time, while also effectively ensuring resource utilization.
Dietary fat supplementation relieves cold temperature-induced energy stress through AMPK-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis in pigs
Authors: He Wei , Liu Xinyu , Feng Ye , Ding Hongwei , Sun Haoyang , Li Zhongyu , Shi Baoming
Published: April 2024

Background

Cold stress has negative effects on the growth and health of mammals, and has become a factor restricting livestock development at high latitudes and on plateaus. The gut-liver axis is central to energy metabolism, and the mechanisms by which it regulates host energy metabolism at cold temperatures have rarely been illustrated. In this study, we evaluated the status of glycolipid metabolism and oxidative stress in pigs based on the gut-liver axis and propose that AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a key target for alleviating energy stress at cold temperatures by dietary fat supplementation.

Results

Dietary fat supplementation alleviated the negative effects of cold temperatures on growth performance and digestive enzymes, while hormonal homeostasis was also restored. Moreover, cold temperature exposure increased glucose transport in the jejunum. In contrast, we observed abnormalities in lipid metabolism, which was characterized by the accumulation of bile acids in the ileum and plasma. In addition, the results of the ileal metabolomic analysis were consistent with the energy metabolism measurements in the jejunum, and dietary fat supplementation increased the activity of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and lipid metabolism. As the central nexus of energy metabolism, the state of glycolipid metabolism and oxidative stress in the liver are inconsistent with that in the small intestine. Specifically, we found that cold temperature exposure increased glucose transport in the liver, which fully validates the idea that hormones can act on the liver to regulate glucose output. Additionally, dietary fat supplementation inhibited glucose transport and glycolysis, but increased gluconeogenesis, bile acid cycling, and lipid metabolism. Sustained activation of AMPK, which an energy receptor and regulator, leads to oxidative stress and apoptosis in the liver; dietary fat supplementation alleviates energy stress by reducing AMPK phosphorylation.

Conclusions

Cold stress reduced the growth performance and aggravated glycolipid metabolism disorders and oxidative stress damage in pigs. Dietary fat supplementation improved growth performance and alleviated cold temperature-induced energy stress through AMPK-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis. In this study, we highlight the importance of AMPK in dietary fat supplementation-mediated alleviation of host energy stress in response to environmental changes.
Clinical profiles of adolescent personality pathology: a latent structure examination of the Semi-Structured Interview for Personality Functioning DSM-5 (STiP-5.1) in a help-seeking sample
Authors: Thomson Madelyn , Cavelti Marialuisa , Lerch Stefan , Koenig Julian , Reichl Corinna , Mürner-Lavanchy Ines , Wyssen Andrea , Kaess Michael
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite the introduction of dimensional conceptualisations of personality functioning in the latest classification systems, such as Criterion A of the Alternative Model of Personality Disorders in the DSM-5, heterogeneous clinical presentation of personality pathology remains a challenge. Relatedly, the latent structure of personality pathology as assessed by the Semi-Structured Interview for Personality Functioning DSM-5 (STiP-5.1) has not yet been comprehensively examined in adolescents. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the latent structure of the STiP-5.1, and, based on those findings, to describe any unique clinical profiles that might emerge.

Methods

The final sample comprised 502 participants aged 11–18 years consecutively recruited from a specialised personality disorder outpatient service, as well as general day clinic and inpatient wards at the University Hospital University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Bern, Switzerland. Participants were assessed using the STiP-5.1, as well as a battery of other psychological measures by clinical psychologists or trained doctoral students. Variations of Factor Analysis, Latent Class Analysis and Factor Mixture Models (FMM) were applied to the STiP-5.1 to determine the most appropriate structure.

Results

The best fitting model was an FMM comprising four-classes and two factors (corresponding to self- and interpersonal-functioning). The classes differed in both overall severity of personality functioning impairment, and in their scores and clinical relevance on each element of the STiP-5.1. When compared to the overall sample, classes differed in their unique clinical presentation: class 1 had low impairment, class 2 had impairments primarily in self-functioning with high depressivity, class 3 had mixed levels of impairment with emerging problems in identity and empathy, and class 4 had severe overall personality functioning impairment.

Conclusions

A complex model incorporating both dimensional and categorical components most adequately describes the latent structure of the STiP-5.1 in our adolescent sample. We conclude that Criterion A provides clinically useful information beyond severity (as a dimensional continuum) alone, and that the hybrid model found for personality functioning in our sample warrants further attention. Findings can help to parse out clinical heterogeneity in personality pathology in adolescents, and help to inform early identification and intervention efforts.
MRI evaluation of vesical imaging reporting and data system for bladder cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Zhang Xinxin , Wang Yichen , Wang Yilin , Zhang Jie , Zhang Jin , Zhang Lianyu , Wang Sicong , Shou Jianzhong , Chen Yan , Zhao Xinming
Published: April 2024

Background

The Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) has demonstrated effectiveness in predicting muscle invasion in bladder cancer before treatment. The urgent need currently is to evaluate the muscle invasion status after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for bladder cancer. This study aims to ascertain the accuracy of VI-RADS in detecting muscle invasion post-NAC treatment and assess its diagnostic performance across readers with varying experience levels.

Methods

In this retrospective study, patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after NAC from September 2015 to September 2018 were included. VI-RADS scores were independently assessed by five radiologists, consisting of three experienced in bladder MRI and two inexperienced radiologists. Comparison of VI-RADS scores was made with postoperative histopathological diagnosis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis (ROC) was used for evaluating diagnostic performance, calculating sensitivity, specificity, and area under ROC (AUC)). Interobserver agreement was assessed using the weighted kappa statistic.

Results

The final analysis included 46 patients (mean age: 61 years ± 9 [standard deviation]; age range: 39–70 years; 42 men). The pooled AUC for predicting muscle invasion was 0.945 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.893–0.977) for experienced readers, and 0.910 (95% CI: 0.831–0.959) for inexperienced readers, and 0.932 (95% CI: 0.892–0.961) for all readers. At an optimal cut-off value ≥ 4, pooled sensitivity and specificity were 74.1% (range: 66.0–80.9%) and 94.1% (range: 88.6–97.7%) for experienced readers, and 63.9% (range: 59.6–68.1%) and 86.4% (range: 84.1–88.6%) for inexperienced readers. Interobserver agreement ranged from substantial to excellent between all readers (k = 0.79–0.92).

Conclusions

VI-RADS accurately assesses muscle invasion in bladder cancer patients after NAC and exhibits good diagnostic performance across readers with different experience levels.
The effects of interactionist versus interventionist dynamic assessment models on Iranian EFL learners’ speaking sub-skills: a mixed-method study
Authors: Sarabi Asl Saeid , Rashtchi Mojgan , Rezaie Ghafour
Published: April 2024

Dynamic assessment has been proven to effectively promote EFL learners' speaking proficiency, but its implementation in teaching speaking skills has been limited. One of the main reasons is that, thus far, very few studies have scrutinized the impacts of its two main models, interactionist and interventionist, on the speaking sub-skills of EFL learners. Instead of examining speaking as a general skill, this research focused on four speaking sub-skills, including grammatical range and accuracy, vocabulary, fluency, and pronunciation, with a concurrent experimental mixed-method design. To this aim, 30 undergraduate students from the Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, were recruited through convenience sampling and participated in both phases. The quantitative data were collected from participants' pre-and post-test scores in the IELTS speaking module, and qualitative data consisted of the transcribed recordings of the intervention sessions. The integration of the quantitative and qualitative results revealed that while both models positively affected EFL learners' speaking proficiency, they differed in the extent and mechanisms of their impacts. The interactionist DA effectively improved grammatical range and accuracy, pronunciation, and vocabulary depth, and the interventionist DA enhanced fluency and vocabulary breadth more efficiently. The findings dissect the differential effects of DA models in one-to-one speaking lessons, offering practical insights for ELT practitioners and stakeholders.
Investigation of the antidiabetic and probiotic properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from some ethnic fermented foods of Darjeeling District
Authors: Ghosh Amlan Jyoti , Ghosh Supriyo , Adhikari Manab Deb , Saha Tilak
Published: April 2024

Background

Indigenous communities residing in the Darjeeling Himalayan region and its adjacent hilly areas have a deeply rooted cultural tradition of consuming a diverse range of vegetable and milk-based fermented products, believed to confer various health advantages. With this traditional knowledge, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from popular fermented foods such as Chhurpi (derived from Bos grunniens milk), Gundruk (made from Brassica juncea leaves), Sinki (derived from Raphanus sativus taproots), and Kinema (produced from Glycine max beans). This study aimed to investigate the probiotic properties of the prevalent LABs, including aggregation properties, bile salt hydrolase activities, survival under gastro-inhibitory conditions, safety evaluations, and their potential health-promoting attributes, with a specific focus on inhibiting α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes.

Results

Five of the LAB isolates demonstrated notable viability rates exceeding 85% when exposed to gastro-inhibitory challenges. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, these isolates were identified as Pediococcus pentosaceus (isolate GAD), Lactobacillus plantarum (isolates KAD and CAD), Lactobacillus brevis (isolate SAD), and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (isolate CMD). These LAB isolates exhibited versatile carbon source utilization, significant auto- and co-aggregation, and bile salt hydrolase (BSH) properties. Auto-aggregation capacity notably increased over time, ranging from 30 to 150 min, with percentage increments from 4.83 ± 1.92% to 67.60 ± 5.93%. L. brevis SAD displayed the highest co-aggregation increment (%) against Staphylococcus aureus, while L. plantarum KAD demonstrated potent antimicrobial activity. In vitro analyses postulated potential health benefits related to antidiabetic properties, particularly inhibiting α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. L. brevis SAD exhibited the highest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, while L. plantarum KAD displayed the most potent α-amylase inhibitory activity. Comprehensive safety assessments, including antibiotic susceptibility profiling, hemolytic activity evaluation, and in vivo acute toxicity studies, confirmed the suitability of these LAB isolates for human consumption.

Conclusions

The isolates show promising probiotic characteristics and significant potential in addressing metabolic health. These results carry substantial scientific implications, suggesting the pharmaceutical-based applications of these traditional fermented foods. Further in vivo investigation is recommended to fully elucidate and exploit the health benefits of these LAB isolates, opening avenues for potential therapeutic interventions and the development of functional foods.
Associations between multimorbidity and neuropathology in dementia: consideration of functional cognitive disorders, psychiatric illness and dementia mimics
Authors: Hamilton Calum A. , Matthews Fiona E. , Attems Johannes , Donaghy Paul C. , Erskine Daniel , Taylor John-Paul , Thomas Alan J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Multimorbidity, the presence of two or more health conditions, has been identified as a possible risk factor for clinical dementia. It is unclear whether this is due to worsening brain health and underlying neuropathology, or other factors. In some cases, conditions may reflect the same disease process as dementia (e.g. Parkinson's disease, vascular disease), in others, conditions may reflect a prodromal stage of dementia (e.g. depression, anxiety and psychosis).

Aims

To assess whether multimorbidity in later life was associated with more severe dementia-related neuropathology at autopsy.

Method

We examined ante-mortem and autopsy data from 767 brain tissue donors from the UK, identifying physical multimorbidity in later life and specific brain-related conditions. We assessed associations between these purported risk factors and dementia-related neuropathological changes at autopsy (Alzheimer's-disease related neuropathology, Lewy body pathology, cerebrovascular disease and limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy) with logistic models.

Results

Physical multimorbidity was not associated with greater dementia-related neuropathological changes. In the presence of physical multimorbidity, clinical dementia was less likely to be associated with Alzheimer's disease pathology. Conversely, conditions which may be clinical or prodromal manifestations of dementia-related neuropathology (Parkinson's disease, cerebrovascular disease, depression and other psychiatric conditions) were associated with dementia and neuropathological changes.

Conclusions

Physical multimorbidity alone is not associated with greater dementia-related neuropathological change; inappropriate inclusion of brain-related conditions in multimorbidity measures and misdiagnosis of neurodegenerative dementia may better explain increased rates of clinical dementia in multimorbidity
Clinical Impact of New Reference Intervals for the Roche Prolactin II Immunoassay
Authors: Earll Erin , Javorsky Bradley R , Sarvaideo Jenna , Straseski Joely A , Nerenz Robert D
Published: April 2024

Context

The Roche prolactin immunoassay is used throughout the world. It reports higher values than the Siemens immunoassay but the manufacturer-defined reference intervals are similar. Patient results are often above the Roche upper limit but within the Siemens interval, causing diagnostic confusion.

Objective

Establish new reference intervals for the Roche and Siemens prolactin immunoassays.

Methods

We established new reference intervals for the Roche and Siemens immunoassays using 374 specimens from healthy outpatients. We performed chart review for unnecessary testing and treatment for 298 patients in a 6-month period with at least 1 Roche prolactin value above the manufacturer-defined upper limit and below our new upper limit.

Results

The new upper limit for the Roche assay was 37.8 ng/mL (females) and 22.8 ng/mL (males). The manufacturer-defined limits were 23.3 ng/mL and 15.2 ng/mL, respectively. New intervals for the Siemens assay matched the manufacturer. No cases of clinically significant pathophysiologic prolactin excess were identified in patients with values between the manufacturer-defined upper reference limit and our new Roche upper limit. Unnecessary further evaluation in these patients included 459 repeat prolactin measurements, 57 macroprolactin measurements, 39 magnetic resonance imaging studies, and 28 endocrine referrals. Eleven patients received dopamine agonists. The minimum cost of excess care using Medicare reimbursement rates was $34 134, with substantially higher amounts billed to patients and their insurance providers.

Conclusion

Adoption of new upper reference limits for the Roche prolactin assay of 37.8 ng/mL (females) and 22.8 ng/mL (males) would not delay diagnosis or necessary intervention in patients with clinically significant pituitary tumors but would reduce unnecessary evaluation in patients without pathophysiologic prolactin excess.
Nutrient deprivation induces mouse embryonic diapause mediated by Gator1 and Tsc2
Authors: Ye Jiajia , Xu Yuting , Ren Qi , Liu Lu , Sun Qiang
Published: April 2024

Embryonic diapause is a special reproductive phenomenon in mammals that helps embryos to survive various harsh stresses. However, the mechanisms of embryonic diapause induced by the maternal environment is still unclear. Here, we uncovered that nutrient deficiency in uterine fluid was essential for the induction of mouse embryonic diapause, shown by a decreased concentration of arginine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, glucose and lactate in the uterine fluid of mice suffering from maternal starvation or ovariectomy. Moreover, mouse blastocysts cultured in a medium with reduced levels of these six components could mimic diapaused blastocysts. Our mechanistic study indicated that amino acid starvation-dependent Gator1 activation and carbohydrate starvation-dependent Tsc2 activation inhibited mTORC1, leading to induction of embryonic diapause. Our study elucidates the essential environmental factors in diapause induction.
RFX6 regulates human intestinal patterning and function upstream of PDX1
Authors: Sanchez J. Guillermo , Rankin Scott , Paul Emily , McCauley Heather A. , Kechele Daniel O. , Enriquez Jacob R. , Jones Nana-Hawa , Greeley Siri A. W. , Letourneau-Freiberg Lisa , Zorn Aaron M. , Krishnamurthy Mansa , Wells James M.
Published: April 2024

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is complex and consists of multiple organs with unique functions. Rare gene variants can cause congenital malformations of the human GI tract, although the molecular basis of these has been poorly studied. We identified a patient with compound-heterozygous variants in RFX6 presenting with duodenal malrotation and atresia, implicating RFX6 in development of the proximal intestine. To identify how mutations in RFX6 impact intestinal patterning and function, we derived induced pluripotent stem cells from this patient to generate human intestinal organoids (HIOs). We identified that the duodenal HIOs and human tissues had mixed regional identity, with gastric and ileal features. CRISPR-mediated correction of RFX6 restored duodenal identity. We then used gain- and loss-of-function and transcriptomic approaches in HIOs and Xenopus embryos to identify that PDX1 is a downstream transcriptional target of RFX6 required for duodenal development. However, RFX6 had additional PDX1-independent transcriptional targets involving multiple components of signaling pathways that are required for establishing early regional identity in the GI tract. In summary, we have identified RFX6 as a key regulator in intestinal patterning that acts by regulating transcriptional and signaling pathways.
Επίδραση της συμπληρωματικής εφαρμογής laser Nd:YAG στη θεραπεία της περιοδοντίτιδας βραδείας εξέλιξης (Σταδίου III και IV)
Authors: Μάρκου Νικόλαος
Published: April 2024

Υλικά και μέθοδοι: Ο στόχος αυτής της μελέτης ήταν να διερευνήσει εάν η χρήση της συμπληρωματικής εφαρμογής laser Nd:YAG (1064 nm)) μπορεί να προσφέρει πρόσθετο όφελος στις κλινικές και ανοσολογικές παραμέτρους της θεραπείας, όπως απεικονίζεται σε μια ποικιλία δεικτών φλεγμονής, για διάστημα 12 μηνών. Υλικά και μέθοδοι: Συνολικά 60 κατά τα άλλα υγιείς περιοδοντικοί ασθενείς σταδίου III/IV κατανεμήθηκαν εξίσου σε 3 ομάδες. Η ομάδα ελέγχου έλαβε ριζική απ0όξεση. Στην ομάδα laser Α, 1 εβδομάδα μετά τη ριζική απόξεση Nd:YAG laser χορηγήθηκε σε περιοδοντικούς θυλάκους ≥ 4 mm χρησιμοποιώντας συγκεκριμένες ρυθμίσεις (3 W, 150 mJ, 20 Hz, 100 μs). Στην ομάδα laser Β, η ακτινοβολία λέιζερ Nd:YAG χορηγήθηκε δύο φορές, 1 εβδομάδα μετά τη ριζική απόξεση και 1 εβδομάδα αργότερα με διαφορετικές ρυθμίσεις σε σύγκριση με το laser Α (2 W, 200 mJ, 10 Hz, 100 μs). Αποτελέσματα: Σημαντική μείωση (p=0,038) των επιπέδων της IL-1β στους 6 μήνες παρατηρήθηκε για την ομάδα laser Α. Η IL-6 βρέθηκε στατιστικά σημαντικά αυξημένη (p=0,011) στην ομάδα ελέγχου στο χρονικό σημείο των 6 εβδομάδων, ενώ δεν αναφέρθηκε διαφορά για τις ομάδες που έλαβαν θεραπεία με laser (laser Α, laser Β).Επιπλέον, παρατηρήθηκε σημαντική βελτίωση (p < 0,001) για όλες τις κλινικές παραμέτρους κατά τη διάρκεια ολόκληρης της περιόδου μελέτης, με εξαίρεση τη μέση αύξηση της CAL για την ομάδα laser Β στους 12 μήνες. Το ποσοστό των θυλάκων ≤ 4 mm ήταν σημαντικά υψηλότερο σε σύγκριση με την αρχική τιμή για όλες τις ομάδες σε όλη τη μελέτη, χωρίς διαφορές μεταξύ των ομάδων σε κανένα χρονικό σημείο. Η κατανάλωση αναλγητικών που αναφέρθηκε από τον ασθενή ήταν υψηλότερη για την ομάδα laser A. Συμπεράσματα: Η συμπληρωματική χρήση της ακτινοβολίας laser Nd:YAG, εμπόδισε την αύξηση της IL-6 6 εβδομάδες μετά τη θεραπεία. Ομοίως, η ακτινοβολία laser Nd:YAG (3 W, 150 mJ, 20 Hz, 100 μs) συσχετίστηκε με σημαντικά χαμηλότερα επίπεδα IL-1β, 6 μήνες μετεγχειρητικά. Επιπλέον, η συμπληρωματική χρήση της ακτινοβολίας laser Nd:YAG ήταν παρόμοια αποτελεσματική με τη ριζική απόξεση μόνο, κατά τη διάρκεια ολόκληρης της περιόδου μελέτης. Μια ελαφρώς υψηλότερη, αν και όχι στατιστικά σημαντική βελτίωση αναφέρθηκε για τη μείωση του βάθους θυλάκου στους 6 και 12 μήνες μετά από μία μόνο εφαρμογή laser Nd:YAG μετά τη ριζική απόξεση.
Spiritual and religious beliefs and behaviour: data collected from 27/28-year-old offspring in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, 2019-2020.
Authors: Iles-Caven Yasmin , Bickerstaffe Iain , Northstone Kate , Golding Jean
Published: April 2024

Religious/spiritual belief and practices have sometimes been demonstrated to have positive associations with outcomes such as coping with serious illness, anxiety, depression, negative life events and general well-being, and therefore warrants consideration in many facets of health research. For example, increasing secularisation evidenced, particularly in the West, may reflect increasing rates of depression and anxiety. Very few studies have charted the ways in which religious/spiritual beliefs and practices of parents and their offspring vary longitudinally or between generations. Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) is one such study that can relate belief and practices with aspects of physical and mental health and/or distinguish the different facets of the environment that may influence the development, or inter-generational loss, of belief and behaviours. This paper describes the 2019–2020 data collection in the ALSPAC on the religious/spiritual beliefs and behaviours (RSBB) of the study offspring (born 1991/1992) at ages 27–28 years. Previously collected and new data on the offspring are described here and comparisons are made with identical data completed by their parents (mothers and their partners) in early 2020. The most striking observations are that in almost all aspects of RSBB the offspring of both sexes are more secular, especially when compared with their mothers. For example, 56.2% of offspring state that they do not believe in God, or a divine power compared with 26.6% of mothers and 45.3% of mothers’ partners. When asked about their type of religion, 65.4% of participants stated ‘none’, compared with 27.2% of mothers and 40.2% of partners. This confirms previous research reporting increasing secularisation from one generation to the next. As with the mothers and their partners, female offspring were more likely than males to believe in a divine power and to practice their beliefs.
Witold Maciej Kapuściński (1882-1951)
Authors: Grzybowski Andrzej , Rabiza Agnieszka
Published: April 2024

Celem pracy była analiza biografii oraz dorobku naukowego Witolda Macieja Kapuścińskiego (1882-1951), polskiego okulisty oraz działacza społecznego. Witold Kapuściński ukończył studia lekarskie oraz uzyskał stopień doktora medycyny w 1908 r. we Fryburgu. W kolejnych latach prowadził prywatną praktykę lekarską, był zaangażowany w działalność społeczną oraz naukową. Był profesorem i dziekanem Wydziału Lekarskiego Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego i Tajnego Uniwersytetu Ziem Zachodnich, prezesem Polskiego Towarzystwa Okulistycznego oraz Wydziału Lekarskiego Poznańskiego Towarzystwa Przyjaciół Nauk.
Análisis de la sentencia del 21 de abril de 2022 de la Corte Internacional de Justicia en el caso Nicaragua c. Colombia sobre supuestas violaciones a derechos soberanos y espacios marítimos en el mar Caribe
Authors: Abello-Galvis Ricardo , Arévalo-Ramírez Walter
Published: April 2024

Este capítulo presenta un comentario al caso presuntas violaciones de derechos soberanos y espacios marítimos en el mar Caribe (Nicaragua c. Colombia), para llevar a cabo un resumen integral de este y un comentario general sobre las pretensiones más relevantes y los antecedentes procesales, explicando las principales cuestiones fácticas y jurisdiccionales, la demanda presentada por Nicaragua, las excepciones preliminares y las reconvenciones presentadas por Colombia durante la fase jurisdiccional del caso que condujo a la sentencia sobre competencia de 2016 y a la decisión de fondo dictada por la Corte Internacional de Justicia (CIJ) en 2022. El capítulo puede proporcionar a los lectores un conocimiento profundo de los litigios recientes que son relevantes para el derecho del mar, pero también para la autoridad de la CIJ y la eficacia de sus sentencias.
Política migratória brasileira e covid-19
Authors: Vieira Brigido Eveline , Georg Uebel Roberto Rodolfo , Alessandri Ribeiro Vítor Eduardo
Published: April 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir o cenário recente da trajetória de governança migratória no Brasil, abordando mudanças em legislações específicas, incluindo novas regulamentações que surgiram devido à pandemia de covid-19. Além disso, também visa mensurar os impactos sociolaborais da pandemia de covid-19 sobre os migrantes internacionais no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, bem como os efeitos das políticas públicas de mitigação adotadas pelos governos estaduais e municipais. De forma inédita, foram divulgados dados sobre o contingente migratório do estado, a incidência da covid-19 em imigrantes, a mobilidade fronteiriça e as políticas públicas implementadas para mitigar seus efeitos, bem como a aplicação de vacinas na população migrante, além da prestação do Auxílio Emergencial para esse grupo populacional. O presente trabalho, financiado pela Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, apresenta alguns resultados preliminares da pesquisa, que está em desenvolvimento. O estudo utiliza dados de pesquisas qualitativas e quantitativas e apresenta perspectivas analíticas do atual período de transição da política migratória brasileira, abordando seus aspectos legais e sociais, para compreender os desafios para a governança das migrações internacionais e o acolhimento de imigrantes
El pluralismo cosmopolita reforzado como reivindicación indígena
Authors: Posada Martínez Martín , Losada Chavarro Manuela
Published: April 2024

El derecho internacional no es objetivo ni neutral. Este tiene unos valores y unos principios implícitos que reflejan su tendencia hacia la protección y el fortalecimiento de la civilización occidental. Mientras tanto, el derecho indígena también tiene unos valores y principios implícitos, pero, a diferencia del derecho internacional, estos buscan promover la sostenibilidad y la solidaridad. En ese sentido, este capítulo busca indigenizar el derecho internacional, pues los valores indígenas conllevan un conjunto de normas que, en vez de favorecer a unos pocos a costas de destruir el planeta, recortan las desigualdades y buscan protegerlo: protegen la vida. Para ello, acudimos al pluralismo cosmopolita de Paul Schiff Berman, no como solución definitiva, sino como punto de partida. El pluralismo cosmopolita genera el diálogo y la construcción de espacios mixtos entre lo indígena y lo occidental. Sin embargo, esos espacios no son suficientes, por lo que deben ser reforzados por la valoración de los mitos indígenas como fuente del derecho internacional, un proceso de desalienación de las partes y por el reconocimiento de la importancia del pasado en el derecho internacional del presente.
Las constituciones chilenas y el derecho internacional privado
Authors: Cortés Beltrán Sergio
Published: April 2024

En este capítulo, se analiza la relación de la Constitución de 1980 y de la eventual nueva Constitución en Chile con el derecho internacional privado. El derecho internacional privado consta de cuatro pilares: derecho aplicable, competencia judicial internacional, eficacia extraterritorial de decisiones y cooperación transfronteriza. Estos pilares del derecho internacional privado son moldeados por la Constitución en cuanto a la formación general del sistema, su interpretación, la precisión del poder competente para elaborar normas de derecho internacional privado y la aplicación territorial de la Constitución. Se incluye un aparte final que analiza las eventuales consecuencias que tendría para Chile su transformación en un Estado plurinacional a la vista las experiencias comparadas de Bolivia y Bélgica.
La innovación pedagógica: brújula y norte de la Universidad del Rosario
Authors: Méndez-Romero Rafael Alberto , Álvarez-Suescún Inéride
Published: April 2024

La innovación pedagógica es uno de los derroteros más importes del Centro de Enseñanza, Aprendizaje y Trayectoria Profesoral de la Dirección Académica y es, sin duda, uno de los objetivos estratégicos de toda la Universidad del Rosario. En este capítulo reflexionamos sobre la importancia de la incorporación de la innovación pedagógica partiendo de la necesidad del porqué preguntarnos por la innovación, para definirla y situarla en la Universidad del Rosario. Para ello, analizamos su evolución a lo largo de los últimos años, notamos cómo el escenario de covid-19 se convirtió en un terreno fértil para su fortalecimiento y finalizamos con la propuesta institucional para pasar de ideas a acciones que transformen la cultura institucional desde y por la innovación en educación.
Opinion Dynamics on Directed Complex Networks
Authors: Fraiman Nicolas , Lin Tzu-Chi , Olvera-Cravioto Mariana
Published: April 2024

We propose and analyze a mathematical model for the evolution of opinions on directed complex networks. Our model generalizes the popular DeGroot and Friedkin-Johnsen models by allowing vertices to have attributes that may influence the opinion dynamics. We start by establishing sufficient conditions for the existence of a stationary opinion distribution on any fixed graph, and then provide an increasingly detailed characterization of its behavior by considering a sequence of directed random graphs having a local weak limit. Our most explicit results are obtained for graph sequences whose local weak limit is a marked Galton-Watson tree, in which case our model can be used to explain a variety of phenomena, for example, conditions under which consensus can be achieved, mechanisms in which opinions can become polarized, and the effect of disruptive stubborn agents on the formation of opinions.

Funding: This work was supported by the National Science Foundation [Grants NSF-DMS-1929298 and CMMI-2243261].
LA EDUCACIÓN DECOLONIAL PLANETARIA COMPLEJA EN SU SIGNIFICACIÓN DEL PRINCIPIO RETROACTIVO RECURSIVO
Authors: Rodriguez Milagros Elena
Published: April 2024

Se analiza el principio retroactivo - recursivo de la complejidad en la significación de la Educación Decolonial Planetaria Compleja (EDPC); hacemos énfasis en las bonanzas de la ecosofía y diatopia en la indagación, pues el transmétodo es la hermenéutica comprensiva, ecosófica y diatópica, recorriendo los momentos analíticos, empíricos y propositivos. En el momento propositivo, la Educación Decolonial Planetaria Compleja busca la paz en medio de la diatriba de la guerra y las tecnologías de la comunicación como transformadoras de la esencia humana. Se trata de lo olvidado del ser, de lo execrado para competir; es educar para ser feliz, y estar en armonía y respeto por todos; pero también revisarnos que ha pasado con la enseñanza sin voces, muda, atónicas de las redes, del Internet. Es supervisora de lo que conviene o no en las redes es esencia; deconstruyendo los medios denigrantes de la vida, antiéticos. La EDPC debe estar atenta esos nuevos instrumentos de soslayación y de aprendizaje en la robotización de la vida; pero asume su papel urgente en los medios de comunicación; como necesarios con su debida supervisión. La Educación Decolonial Planetaria Compleja enseña la naturaleza de la vida para recobrar el sentido de lo humano como planetario, como universal; en el sentido de la creación de Dios contada desde el Génesis en las Sagradas Escrituras, más allá de las religiones coloniales y opresivas; enseña de la complejidad del ser: naturaleza-cuerpo-mente-alma-espíritu-Dios. Es la solidaridad el valor por excelencia a cultivar desde los primeros niveles educativos.
Outcomes from a proof-of-concept specialist lymphoedema clinic in the community
Authors: Morris Kay , Colgan Mary Paula , McMahon Noelle , Slattery Sinead
Published: April 2024

The Health and Safety Execultive lymphoedema model of care was published in 2018 highlighting the lack of dedicated lymphoedema services in Ireland. This led to the introduction of a proof-of-concept primary care specialist lymphoedema clinic. The clinic was responsible for all patients from their county. A comprehensive dataset was gathered which included the patient's history for 1 year prior to their presentation at clinic and then 6 monthly. A quality of life tool (LymQoL) and a patient satisfaction survey were completed. Completed 1-year data showed a significant reduction in GP and public health nurse visits as well as a reduction in the occurrence of cellulitis and associated hospital admissions. All areas of quality of life were improved and patient satisfaction was either excellent (89%) or very good (11%). The 1-year findings strongly support the roll-out of specialist clinics to all regional health areas.
Effect of clinical engagement on value, standardisation, decision-making and savings in NHS product procurement
Authors: Moses Claire
Published: April 2024

Background:

UK healthcare expenditure is now £193.8 billion a year. The procurement function is seen as central to driving efficiencies within the NHS. This comes with an increasing onus on clinicians, including nurses and allied health professionals, to accept procurement outcomes to realise efficiency savings, with or without prior engagement.

Aims:

This empirical study seeks to examine whether clinical engagement in the procurement of healthcare products in the NHS is necessary to achieve value, savings and standardisation; it will thereby address a gap in the research.

Methods:

A multi-method qualitative case study design was used, which included a survey and eight semi-structured interviews.

Findings:

Results identified three factors that influence the achievement of value, savings and standardisation around clinical engagement: micro-level processes for clinical engagement; clinical stakeholders and clinical procurement professionals as experts at the centre of procurement activity; and clinical value in standardisation. A shift away from standardisation to resilience was identified, resulting from current market supply pressures.

Conclusion:

This research brings empirically derived findings to address gaps in research, supports the benefit of clinical engagement through specific forums for collaboration at a trust level and provides a clinical/expert impact/preference matrix as a resource for procurement professionals to facilitate clinical engagement.
Identification and responses by nurses to sexual exploitation of young people
Authors: Adakpa Itodo , McLuskey John
Published: April 2024

Background:

Nurses are uniquely positioned to identify and respond to the sexual exploitation of young people. They treat sexually transmitted infections, unplanned pregnancies, and mental health issues, often collaborating with social services and law enforcement to safeguard young people.

Aim:

This narrative review explores the pivotal role of nurses in identifying and responding to sexual exploitation among young people.

Methods:

Empirical evidence from 1997 to 2021 was examined through a comprehensive search of databases such as CINAHL-EBSCO, ASSIA, PubMed (including Medline), and manual screening of abstracts. The PRISMA guideline was applied. Thematic analysis of 12 selected studies revealed three overarching themes.

Findings:

The themes identified were the influence of technology on the sexual exploitation of young people, identification and response to sexual exploitation in both clinical and non-clinical settings, and organisational support.

Conclusion:

These findings shed light on sexual exploitation and underscore the significance of a person-centred approach to nursing care that addresses the health and social impacts of sexual exploitation. It emphasises the importance of interagency collaboration and appropriate clinical interventions to effectively support young people at risk. Increased professional development, support, and supervision for nurses are relevant to identifying, responding to, and preventing the sexual exploitation of young people.
Using a LOng peripheral intraVEnous catheter with retractable guidewire to optimize first-insertion success for patients with Difficult IntraVenous Access in the emergency department (LOVE-DIVA): a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xu Hui (Grace) , Corley Amanda , Ware Robert S. , Nghiem Son , Stirling Scott , Wang Carrie , Marsh Nicole
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

First-insertion success rates for peripheral vascular access devices (PVADs) in patients with difficult venous access (DIVA) are low, which negatively affects staff workload, patient experience, and organizational cost. There is mixed evidence regarding the impact of a peripheral vascular access device with retractable coiled tip guidewire (GW; AccuCath™, BD) on the first-insertion success rate. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the use of long GW-PVADs, compared with standard PVADs, reduces the risk of first-time insertion failure, in patients admitted to emergency departments (EDs).

Methods and analysis:

A parallel-group, two-arm, randomized controlled trial will be carried out in two Australian EDs to compare long GW-PVADs (5.8 cm length) against standard care PVADs (short or long). Patients ≥18 years of age meeting DIVA criteria will be eligible for the trial. The sample size is 203 participants for each arm. Web-based central randomization will be used to ensure allocation concealment. Neither clinicians nor patients can be blinded to treatment allocation. Primary outcome is the first-insertion success rate. Secondary outcomes include the number of insertion attempts, time to insert PVAD, all-cause failure, dwell-time, patient-reported pain, serious adverse events, complications, subsequent vascular access devices required, patient satisfaction, staff satisfaction, and healthcare costs. Differences between the two groups will be analyzed using Cox proportional hazards regression. Cost-effectiveness analysis will also be conducted. Intention-to-treat analysis will be used.

Ethics and dissemination:

The study is approved by Metro South Ethics Committee (HREC/2022/QMS/82264) and Griffith University (2022/077). The findings will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration:

ACTRN12622000299707