bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal study of changes in greenness exposure, physical activity and sedentary behavior in the ORISCAV-LUX cohort study
Authors: van Beek Juliette F. E. , Malisoux Laurent , Klein Olivier , Bohn Torsten , Tharrey Marion , Van Lenthe Frank J. , Beenackers Mariëlle A. , Dijst Martin , Perchoux Camille
Published: May 2024

Background

Greenness exposure has been associated with many health benefits, for example through the pathway of providing opportunities for physical activity (PA). Beside the limited body of longitudinal research, most studies overlook to what extent different types of greenness exposures may be associated with varying levels of PA and sedentary behavior (SB). In this study, we investigated associations of greenness characterized by density, diversity and vegetation type with self-reported PA and SB over a 9-year period, using data from the ORISCAV-LUX study (2007–2017, n = 628).

Methods

The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form was used to collect PA and SB outcomes. PA was expressed as MET-minutes/week and log-transformed, and SB was expressed as sitting time in minutes/day.

Geographic Information Systems (ArcGIS Pro, ArcMap) were used to collect the following exposure variables: Tree Cover Density (TCD), Soil-adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), and Green Land Use Mix (GLUM). The exposure variables were derived from publicly available sources using remote sensing and cartographic resources. Greenness exposure was calculated within 1000m street network buffers around participants’ exact residential address.

Results

Using Random Effects Within-Between (REWB) models, we found evidence of negative within-individual associations of TCD with PA (β = − 2.60, 95% CI − 4.75; − 0.44), and negative between-individual associations of GLUM and PA (β = − 2.02, 95% CI − 3.73; − 0.32). There was no evidence for significant associations between greenness exposure and SB. Significant interaction effects by sex were present for the associations between TCD and both PA and SB. Neighborhood socioeconomic status (NSES) did not modify the effect of greenness exposure on PA and SB in the 1000 m buffer.

Discussion

Our results showed that the relationship between greenness exposure and PA depended on the type of greenness measure used, which stresses the need for the use of more diverse and complementary greenness measures in future research. Tree vegetation and greenness diversity, and changes therein, appeared to relate to PA, with distinct effects among men and women. Replication studies are needed to confirm the relevance of using different greenness measures to understand its’ different associations with PA and SB.
Association of the triglyceride-glucose index and its related parameters with frailty
Authors: Yin Huangyi , Guo Liuqing , Zhu Wei , Li Weishan , Zhou Yubo , Wei Wenyun , Liang Min
Published: May 2024

Background

Frailty is a dynamic geriatric condition. Limited studies have examined the association of the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and its related indicators [TyG index, triglyceride glucose-waist to height ratio (TyG-WHtR), triglyceride glucose-waist circumference (TyG-WC), and triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI)] with frailty, and the potential links among them remain unclear. On the basis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), this study investigated the potential relationships of the TyG index and its related indices with frailty.

Methods

This research included 7,965 participants from NHANES 2003–2018. The relationship of the TyG index and its related indices with frailty was investigated with binary logistic regression analyses, restricted cubic spline (RCS), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Potential influences were further investigated through stratified analyses and interaction tests.

Results

The prevalence of frailty in the participants of this study was 25.59%, with a average frailty index of 0.16 (0.00). In the three regression analysis models, the continuous TyG index and its associated indices were positively associated with frailty. In addition, quartiles of TyG, TyG-WC, TyG-WHtR, and TyG-BMI were significantly associated with increased frailty prevalence in the fully adjusted models (TyG Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.19, 2.09, P = 0.002; TyG-WC Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 2.40, 95% CI: 1.90, 3.04, P < 0.001; TyG-WHtR Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.82, 2.81, P < 0.001; TyG- BMI Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.76, 2.64, P < 0.001). According to RCS analysis, TyG, TyG-WC, TyG-WHtR, and TyG-BMI were linearly and positively associated with frailty. ROC curves revealed that TyG-WHtR (AUC: 0.654) had greater diagnostic value for frailty than TyG (AUC: 0.604), TyG-BMI (AUC: 0.621), and TyG-WC (AUC: 0.629). All of the stratified analyses and interaction tests showed similar results.

Conclusions

Elevated TyG and its associaed indices are associated with an increased prevalence of frailty. Reasonable control of blood glucose and blood lipids, and avoidance of obesity, may aid in reducing the occurrence of frailty in middle-aged and older adults.
Deep eutectic solvent self-assembled reverse nanomicelles for transdermal delivery of sparingly soluble drugs
Authors: Li Bin , Jiao Siwen , Guo Shiqi , Xiao Ting , Zeng Yao , Hu Yingwei , Li Xiaojuan , Xiong Sha , Xu Yuehong
Published: May 2024

Background

Transdermal delivery of sparingly soluble drugs is challenging due to their low solubility and poor permeability. Deep eutectic solvent (DES)/or ionic liquid (IL)-mediated nanocarriers are attracting increasing attention. However, most of them require the addition of auxiliary materials (such as surfactants or organic solvents) to maintain the stability of formulations, which may cause skin irritation and potential toxicity.

Results

We fabricated an amphiphilic DES using natural oxymatrine and lauric acid and constructed a novel self-assembled reverse nanomicelle system (DES-RM) based on the features of this DES. Synthesized DESs showed the broad liquid window and significantly solubilized a series of sparingly soluble drugs, and quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models with good prediction ability were further built. The experimental and molecular dynamics simulation elucidated that the self-assembly of DES-RM was adjusted by noncovalent intermolecular forces. Choosing triamcinolone acetonide (TA) as a model drug, the skin penetration studies revealed that DES-RM significantly enhanced TA penetration and retention in comparison with their corresponding DES and oil. Furthermore, in vivo animal experiments demonstrated that TA@DES-RM exhibited good anti-psoriasis therapeutic efficacy as well as biocompatibility.

Conclusions

The present study offers innovative insights into the optimal design of micellar nanodelivery system based on DES combining experiments and computational simulations and provides a promising strategy for developing efficient transdermal delivery systems for sparingly soluble drugs.
Analysing the performance of a health innovation ecosystem in the COVID-19 crisis: complexity and chaos theory perspective
Authors: Moeenian Mehrnaz , Ghazinoory Sepehr , Yaghmaie Pegah
Published: May 2024

Background

This research delves into the complexity management of collaborative networks and interorganizational systems in the health innovation ecosystem on the basis of a best practice in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis. The objective is to offer specific solutions and guidelines to stakeholders in the health innovation ecosystem to control the chaos resulting from unexpected events along the ecosystem development and evolution path.

Methods

For this purpose, the performance of the Health Innovation Ecosystem in Iran (the Every Home is a Health Base plan) has been examined through a detailed and in-depth analysis of events and actions taken using documents, reports and interviews with experts. The practical application of chaos and complex adaptive system features (adaptation, time horizons, edge of chaos, sensitivity to initial conditions, state space and strange attractors) is introduced to identify and manage the transition from a state where the health innovation ecosystem is on the edge of chaos and prone to failure. Data were collected through studying documents, reports and interviews with experts, and then analysed using qualitative content analysis techniques, open and axial coding and metaphors derived from complexity and chaos theories.

Results

The findings indicate that to understand and embrace the complexity of the health innovation ecosystem throughout its development and evolution and manage and lead it through the edge of chaos towards successful interorganizational systems performance, it is necessary to use gap analysis to achieve consensus, establish a highly interactive governance structure with key stakeholders of the ecosystem, maintain flexibility to control bifurcations (butterfly effect), prevent transforming emergency solutions into standard routines and ensure the sustainability of the ecosystem against future threats by long-term financial security.

Conclusions

This research provides insights into the dynamics of complex health systems and offers strategies for promoting successful innovation through collaborative networks and interorganizational systems in the development and evolution of the health innovation ecosystem. By embracing complexity and chaos, healthcare professionals, policy-makers and researchers can collaboratively address complex challenges and improve outcomes in health network activities. The conclusion section provides guidelines for successfully managing the complexity of the ecosystem and offers suggestions for further research.
Metabolic self-feeding in HBV-associated hepatocarcinoma centered on feedback between circulation lipids and the cellular MAPK/mTOR axis
Authors: Zhu Ying , Zhao Yingke , Ning Zhouyu , Deng Yong , Li Bing , Sun Yun , Meng Zhiqiang
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is widely recognized as a “metabolic virus” that disrupts hepatic metabolic homeostasis, rendering it one of the foremost risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Except for antiviral therapy, the fundamental principles underlying HBV− and HBV+ HCC have remained unchanged, limiting HCC treatment options.

Objectives

In this study, we aim to identify the distinctive metabolic profile of HBV-associated HCC, with the promise of identifying novel metabolic targets that confer survival advantages and ultimately impede cancer progression.

Methods

We employed a comprehensive methodology to evaluate metabolic alterations systematically. Initially, we analyzed transcriptomic and proteomic data obtained from a public database, subsequently validating these findings within our test cohort at both the proteomic and transcriptomic levels. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of tissue metabolomics profiles, lipidomics, and the activity of the MAPK and AKT signaling pathway to corroborate the abovementioned changes.

Results

Our multi-omics approach revealed distinct metabolic dysfunctions associated with HBV-associated HCC. Specifically, we observed upregulated steroid hormone biosynthesis, primary bile acid metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism in HBV-associated HCC patients’ serum. Notably, metabolites involved in primary bile acid and sphingolipids can activate the MAPK/mTOR pathway. Tissue metabolomics and lipidomics analyses further validated the serum metabolic alterations, particularly alterations in lipid composition and accumulation of unsaturated fatty acids.

Conclusion

Our findings emphasize the pivotal role of HBV in HCC metabolism, elucidating the activation of a unique MAPK/mTOR signaling axis by primary bile acids and sphingolipids. Moreover, the hyperactive MAPK/mTOR signaling axis transduction leads to significant reprogramming in lipid metabolism within HCC cells, further triggering the activation of the MAPK/mTOR pathway in turn, thereby establishing a self-feeding circle driven by primary bile acids and sphingolipids.
A systematic review on the associations between the built environment and adult’s physical activity in global tropical and subtropical climate regions
Authors: Nigg Carina , Alothman Shaima A. , Alghannam Abdullah F. , Schipperijn Jasper , AlAhmed Reem , Alsukait Reem F. , Rakic Severin , Cetinkaya Volkan , Al-Hazzaa Hazzaa M. , Alqahtani Saleh A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Physical inactivity is a major public health concern, exacerbated in countries with a (sub)tropical climate. The built environment can facilitate physical activity; however, current evidence is mainly from North American and European countries with activity-friendly climate conditions. This study explored associations between built environment features and physical activity in global tropical or subtropical dry or desert climate regions.

Methods

A systematic review of four major databases (Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and SportDISCUS) was performed. To be included, studies had to investigate associations between perceived or objective built environment characteristics and adult’s physical activity and had to be conducted in a location with (sub)tropical climate. Each investigated association was reported as one case and results were synthesized based upon perceived and objectively assessed environment characteristics as well as Western and non-Western countries. Study quality was evaluated using a tool designed for assessing studies on built environment and physical activity.

Results

Eighty-four articles from 50 studies in 13 countries with a total of 2546 built environment-physical activity associations were included. Design (connectivity, walking/cycling infrastructure), desirability (aesthetics, safety), and destination accessibility were the built environment characteristics most frequently associated with physical activity across the domains active transport, recreational physical activity, total walking and cycling, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, particularly if multiple attributes were present at the same time. Very few studies assessed built environment attributes specifically relevant to physical activity in (sub)tropical climates. Most studies were conducted in Western countries, with results being largely comparable with non-Western countries. Findings were largely generalizable across gender and age groups. Results from natural experiments indicated that relocating to an activity-friendly neighborhood impacted sub-groups differently.

Conclusions

Built environment attributes, including destination accessibility, connectivity, walking and cycling infrastructure, safety, and aesthetics, are positively associated with physical activity in locations with (sub)tropical climate. However, few studies focus on built environment attributes specifically relevant in a hot climate, such as shade or indoor recreation options. Further, there is limited evidence from non-Western countries, where most of the urban population lives in (sub)tropical climates. Policy makers should focus on implementing activity-friendly environment attributes to create sustainable and climate-resilient cities.
Multilevel analysis on prevalence and associated factors of modern contraceptive uptake in Somaliland: based on The Somaliland Health and Demographic Survey 2020
Authors: Geta Teshome Gensa , Abdiwali Saad Ahmed , Farah Mustafa Mohamoud , Assefa Dereje Zewdu , Arusi Temesgen Tantu
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Contraception is the deliberate prevention of unwanted pregnancy through various contraceptive methods. Its uptake is low in Sub-Saharan African countries, particularly in east Africa. This might be linked to the high prevalence of unwanted pregnancies and the high fertility rate in the area. Although studies reporting the prevalence and associated factors of modern contraceptive uptake are available in other African countries, no study has been conducted in Somaliland. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess its prevalence and associated factors in Somaliland using Somaliland Health and Demographic Survey (SLHDS) data.

Methods and materials

The study used Somaliland Demographic Health Survey (SLDHS) 2020 data. The survey was a national-level survey using a cross-sectional study design. A total of 3656 reproductive-age women were included in the current study. To determine independent predictors of modern contraceptive uptake, a multi-level multivariable logistic regression analysis was done. Random effect analysis, standard error (SE) and intra-cluster correlation (ICC) were computed.

Results

The proportion of modern contraceptive uptake among reproductive age groups in Somaliland is 1%. Modern contraceptive uptake is significantly associated with the residence, educational level and wealth index of participants. Women from nomadic communities had lower odds (AOR: 0.25; 95% CI: 0.10, 0.66) of modern contraceptive uptake compared to those from urban areas. Being in the highest wealth quintiles (AOR: 17.22; 95% CI: 1.99, 155.92) and having a tertiary educational level (AOR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.29, 9.11) had higher odds of using the modern contractive method compared to those with the lowest wealth quintiles and non-formal education, respectively.

Conclusion

The prevalence of modern contraceptive uptake in Somaliland was very low. It is associated with the level of education, wealth index and residence of the women.
Tanzanian adolescents’ attitudes toward abortion: innovating video vignettes in survey research on health topics
Authors: Bolgrien Anna , Levison Deborah
Published: May 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to pilot an innovative cartoon video vignette survey methodology to learn about young people’s perspectives on abortion and sexual relationships in Tanzania. The Animating Children’s Views methodology used videos shown on tablets to engage young people in conversations. Such conversations are complicated because abortion is highly stigmatized, inaccessible, and illegal in Tanzania.

Methods

The cartoon video vignette methodology was conducted as a part of a quantitative survey using tablet computers. Hypothetical situations and euphemistic expressions were tested in order to engage adolescents on sensitive topics in low-risk ways. Qualitative interviews and focus groups validated and further explored the perspectives of the young respondents.

Results

Results indicate that 12–17 year-olds usually understand euphemistic expressions for abortion and are aware of social stigma and contradictory norms surrounding abortion from as young as age twelve. Despite the risks involved with abortion, this study finds adolescents sometimes view abortion as a reasonable solution to allow a girl to remain in school. Additional findings show that as adolescents wrestle with how to respond to a schoolgirl’s pregnancy, they are considering both the (un)affordability of healthcare services and also expectations for gender roles.

Conclusions

Digital data collection, such as the Animating Children’s Views cartoon video vignettes used in this study, allows researchers to better understand girls’ and boys’ own perspectives on their experiences and reproductive health.
Triglyceride-glucose index predicts all-cause mortality, but not cardiovascular mortality, in rural Northeast Chinese patients with metabolic syndrome: a community-based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yu Shasha , Li Qiyu , Yang Hongmei , Guo Xiaofan , Li GuangXiao , Sun Yingxian
Published: May 2024

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) includes a group of metabolic irregularities, including insulin resistance (IR), atherogenic dyslipidemia, central obesity, and hypertension. Consistent evidence supports IR and ongoing low-grade inflammation as the main contributors to MetS pathogenesis. However, the association between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and mortality in people with MetS remains uncertain. The objective of this study was to examine the correlation between the baseline TyG index and all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality in rural Northeast Chinese individuals with MetS.

Methods

For the Northeast China Rural Cardiovascular Health Study, 3918 participants (mean age, 55 ± 10; 62.4% women) with MetS at baseline were enrolled in 2012–2013 and followed up from 2015 to 2017. The TyG index was calculated using the equation TyG index = ln [fasting TG (mg/dL) × fasting glucose (mg/dL)/2] and subdivided into tertiles [Q1(< 8.92); Q2 (8.92–9.36); Q3 (≥ 9.36)]. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were developed to examine the correlations between mortality and the baseline TyG index.

Results

During a median of 4.66 years of follow-up, 196 (5.0%) all-cause deaths and 108 (2.8%) CV disease-related deaths occurred. The incidence of all-cause mortality was significantly different among TyG index tertiles of the overall population (P = 0.045). Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated a significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality in rural Chinese patients with a higher TyG index (log-rank P < 0.05). After adjusting for possible confounders, Cox proportional hazard analysis revealed that the TyG index could effectively predict all-cause mortality (HR for the third vs. first tertile of TyG was 1.441 [95% confidence interval, 1.009–2.059]), but not CV mortality, in rural Chinese patients with MetS.

Conclusions

The TyG index is an effective predictor of all-cause mortality in rural Chinese patients with MetS. This indicates that the TyG index may be useful for identifying rural Chinese individuals with MetS at a high risk of death.
Infrared laser moxibustion for cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer survivors: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mao Huijuan , Jin Ming , Xie Lulu , Mao Ni , Shen Xubo , Chen Junchao , Chen Xuefen , Mao Jun J. , Shen Xueyong
Published: May 2024

Background

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a pervasive, persistent, and distressing symptom experienced by cancer patients, for which few treatments are available. We investigated the efficacy and safety of infrared laser moxibustion (ILM) for improving fatigue in breast cancer survivors.

Methods

A three-arm, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial (6-week intervention plus 12-week observational follow-up) was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China. The female breast cancer survivors with moderate to severe fatigue were randomized 2:2:1 to ILM (n = 56) sham ILM (n = 56), and Waitlist control (WLC)(n = 28) groups. Patients in the ILM and sham ILM (SILM) groups received real or sham ILM treatment, 2 sessions per week for 6 weeks, for a total of 12 sessions. The primary outcome was change in the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI) score from baseline to week 6 with follow-up until week 18 assessed in the intention-to-treat population.

Results

Between June 2018 and July 2021, 273 patients were assessed for eligibility, and 140 patients were finally enrolled and included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Compared with WLC, ILM reduced the average BFI score by 0.9 points (95% CI, 0.3 to 1.6, P = .007) from baseline to week 6, with a difference between the groups of 1.1 points (95% CI, 0.4 to 1.8, P = .002) at week 18. Compared with SILM, ILM treatment resulted in a non-significant reduction in the BFI score (0.4; 95% CI, -0.2 to 0.9, P = .206) from baseline to week 6, while the between-group difference was significant at week 18 (0.7; 95% CI, 0.2 to 1.3, P = .014). No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

While ILM was found to be safe and to significantly reduce fatigue compared with WLC, its promising efficacy against the sham control needs to be verified in future adequately powered trials.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04144309. Registered 12 June 2018.
Implementation research: a protocol for two three-arm pragmatic randomised controlled trials on continuous glucose monitoring devices in people with type 1 diabetes in South Africa and Kenya
Authors: Marbán-Castro Elena , Muhwava Lorrein , Kamau Yvonne , Safary Elvis , Rheeder Paul , Karsas Maria , Kemp Tanja , Freitas Johanè , Carrihill Michelle , Dave Joel , Katambo Daniel , Kimetto Joan , Allie Razana ,   Kenya ACCEDE study group, Ngugi Nancy , Muhammed Gaman , Njenga Eva , Karekezi Catherine , Kunyiha Nancy , Ngugi Newton , Onyango Elizabeth ,   South Africa ACCEDE study group, Mashego Amanda , De Klerk Kirsten , Hendriks Salih , Ngugi Newton , Sayed Bilqees , Ndungu Joseph , Sigwebela Ntombi , Akach Dorcas , Girdwood Sarah , Erkosar Berra , Nichols Brooke E. , Haldane Cathy , Vetter Beatrice , Shilton Sonjelle
Published: May 2024

Background

Self-monitoring of glucose is an essential component of type 1 diabetes (T1D) management. In recent years, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has provided an alternative to daily fingerstick testing for the optimisation of insulin dosing and general glucose management in people with T1D. While studies have been conducted to evaluate the impact of CGM on clinical outcomes in the US, Europe and Australia, there are limited data available for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and further empirical evidence is needed to inform policy decision around their use in these countries.

Methods

This trial was designed as a pragmatic, parallel-group, open-label, multicentre, three-arm, randomised (1:1:1) controlled trial of continuous or periodic CGM device use versus standard of care in people with T1D in South Africa and Kenya. The primary objective of this trial will be to assess the impact of continuous or periodic CGM device use on glycaemic control as measured by change from baseline glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c). Additional assessments will include clinical outcomes (glucose variation, time in/below/above range), safety (adverse events, hospitalisations), quality of life (EQ-5D, T1D distress score, Glucose Monitoring Satisfaction Survey for T1D), and health economic measures (incremental cost-effectiveness ratios, quality adjusted life years).

Discussion

This trial aims to address the substantial evidence gap on the impact of CGM device use on clinical outcomes in LMICs, specifically South Africa and Kenya. The trial results will provide evidence to inform policy and treatment decisions in these countries.

Trial registration

NCT05944731 (Kenya), July 6, 2023; NCT05944718 (South Africa), July 13, 2023.
The impact of the stress hyperglycemia ratio on the risk of contrast-associated acute kidney injury in patients undergoing coronary angiography: a large real-world cohort study
Authors: Li Yuqi , Zhang Liting , Liu Weiqi , Deng Jingru , Liu Jin , Zhou Yang , Feng Li , Chen Jiyan
Published: May 2024

Background

Contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) is an important complication in the perioperative period of coronary angiography (CAG). Dysglycemia is closely associated with the occurrence of CA-AKI. However, the association between stress hyperglycemia and CA-AKI in patients undergoing CAG remains unclear. The study aims to investigate the association of the stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) and CA-AKI under CAG in a large real-world cohort.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study, and patients undergoing CAG were enrolled. SHR is calculated by dividing the random blood glucose with the estimated average glucose derived from the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and subjects were divided into five groups according to SHR. The outcome was CA-AKI defined as an increase in serum creatinine of ≥ 0.3 mg/dL (26.5 μmol/L) or 1.5-fold higher than normal levels in 48 h. The association was assessed with logistic regression and restricted cubic spline analysis.

Results

In 19,965 participants (men: 73.3%, mean age: 63.1 ± 10.8 years) undergoing CAG, a total of 1,621 CA-AKI cases occurred. There were reverse J-shaped associations between the SHR and CA-AKI after adjustment for other confounding factors. Moreover, SHR improved the predictive effectiveness of the traditional Mehran score (AUC 0.65 vs 0.63, P < 0.001), a predictive model of CA-AKI in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Conclusions

There were reverse J-shaped associations of SHR with CA-AKI risk among patients undergoing CAG, and the assessment of SHR before CAG may assist clinicians in identifying patients at higher risk of CA-AKI.
Photobiomodulation in experimental models of Alzheimer’s disease: state-of-the-art and translational perspectives
Authors: Huang Zhihai , Hamblin Michael R. , Zhang Quanguang
Published: May 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses a significant public health problem, affecting millions of people across the world. Despite decades of research into therapeutic strategies for AD, effective prevention or treatment for this devastating disorder remains elusive. In this review, we discuss the potential of photobiomodulation (PBM) for preventing and alleviating AD-associated pathologies, with a focus on the biological mechanisms underlying this therapy. Future research directions and guidance for clinical practice for this non-invasive and non-pharmacological therapy are also highlighted. The available evidence indicates that different treatment paradigms, including transcranial and systemic PBM, along with the recently proposed remote PBM, all could be promising for AD. PBM exerts diverse biological effects, such as enhancing mitochondrial function, mitigating the neuroinflammation caused by activated glial cells, increasing cerebral perfusion, improving glymphatic drainage, regulating the gut microbiome, boosting myokine production, and modulating the immune system. We suggest that PBM may serve as a powerful therapeutic intervention for AD.
Evaluating the application feasibility of thyme oil nanoemulsion coating for extending the shelf life of papaya (Carica papaya cv. Tainung No. 2) with postharvest physiology and quality parameters
Authors: Yu Meng-Chieh , Hou Chih-Yao , Tsay Jyh-Shyan , Chung Hsin-Ying , Huang Ping-Hsiu , Liang Yu-Shen
Published: May 2024

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a typical climacteric fruit with a brief shelf life due to the rapid degradation of quality during post-ripening, necessitating appropriate postharvest management to address this challenge. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of thyme oil nanoemulsion (TO-NE) coating and utilize its benefits for preserving papaya. This study also investigated the physiological properties and quality changes of papaya storage at 20 ℃ and, in parallel, examined the effects of TO-NE coating to mitigate microbial infection of papaya during storage. The postharvest papaya was soaked in different concentrations (0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 mg/g) of TO-NE for coating. At the same time, the decay loss rate and effective shelf life were also evaluated. This study revealed that polygalacturonase (PG) and pectinesterase (PME) activities were inhibited during the storage of papaya treated with 0.25 mg/g TO-NE coated compared to the control group. This resulted in the preservation of the firmness of papaya fruits, in addition to a higher ascorbic acid content, delayed total soluble solids (TSS) accumulation, and total chlorophyll content (TCC) degradation, with a lagging color change for two days. The respiration rate and ethylene production were suppressed, while the 0.25 mg/g TO-NE coated group at day 14 (ethylene peak) were 63.2 mg CO2 kg−1 h−1 and 7.3 µL kg−1 h−1, lower than control. The 0.25 mg/g TO-NE coating treatment significantly reduced the decay rate for 10 days of storage, preserving their appearance and facilitating ripening. This is a viable option for extending Tainung No.2 papaya shelf life.

Graphical Abstract
Salivary and serum haptoglobin, adenosine deaminase, and immunoglobulin G in growing pigs
Authors: Piirainen Virpi , Gutiérrez Ana M. , Heinonen Mari , König Emilia , Valros Anna , Junnikkala Sami
Published: May 2024

Background

Identification of animals in need of medical treatment is important in porcine health management, where analytical samples applicable at farm level could be utilized. Several biomarkers are measurable in saliva, which is less stressful to collect than blood. Saliva sampling is easy to learn and repeatable, making it suitable for monitoring purposes. Previous research suggests that porcine health biomarkers are dependent on production stage and gender, and that combining biomarkers improves diagnostic sensitivity. However, proper monitoring of biomarkers during the complete production cycle has not been studied. We aimed to describe the dynamics of salivary and serum haptoglobin (Hp), adenosine deaminase (ADA), and immunoglobulin G (IgG) in four production stages (suckling, early growing, late growing, finishing), on commercial Finnish pig farms using a total of 117 piglets. The relationship between gender and biomarker dynamics was investigated, as well as the relationships between these biomarkers in saliva and serum.

Results

The highest salivary concentrations of Hp, ADA and IgG were measured in suckling piglets. The differences between production stages were generally larger in saliva than for the corresponding serum biomarkers. All correlation coefficients between salivary biomarkers were positive in each production stage and the strength of the correlation varied from 0.245 to 0.762. No similar trend was observed regarding correlation coefficients either between serum biomarkers or between salivary and serum biomarkers. Gender was associated with some biomarker concentrations.

Conclusions

The biomarker dynamics supported previous findings that collection of analytical samples should be conducted in age-matched populations. Positive and even strong relationships between salivary biomarkers indicate the potential to use especially saliva for health monitoring. Our results also suggest the importance of considering gender effects when assessing some salivary or serum biomarkers.
Preoperative evaluation of the persistent urogenital sinus in cases with congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Aboalazayem Abeer , Fares Ahmed Elham , Ahmed Samah Ahmed Hassanein , Kaddah Sherif , Abdullateef Khaled Salah Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Background

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a common cause of urogenital sinus (UGS) anomalies. Delineating the abnormal anatomy of the UGS is crucial prior to the operative repair. Genitography and cystourethroscopy are commonly used by most surgeons to plan for reconstruction. We aim at this study to evaluate the role of these modalities and to compare their accuracy in delineating the abnormal anatomy.

Methods

We did a prospective study of 30 female paediatric patients with persistent UGS secondary to CAH. All cases were evaluated with genitography and cystourethroscopy. We compared the accuracy of each modality in delineating the confluence. The confluence depth, the urethral length proximal to the confluence, the vaginal dimensions, and the depth of the bladder neck were measured in the genitograms.

Results

Cystourethroscopy showed the abnormal anatomy in all 30 cases (100%). The genitogram showed the site of confluence in 24 cases out of 30 cases (80%). According to the site of the vaginal opening in relation to the external urethral sphincter in the genitogram, we had 2 groups: the low confluence group (N = 14) and the high confluence group (N = 16). The mean confluence depth in the low group was 9.8 mm vs. 20.5 mm in the high group (p-value < 0.001). To find a cutoff point to differentiate low from high groups, we used the values that resulted from dividing the length of the urethra proximal to the confluence over the depth of the bladder neck. By using the ROC curve, the cutoff point was 0.63 mm (< 0.63 mm high, > / = 0.63 mm low) (p-value < .001).

Conclusion

We recommend using both cystourethroscopy and genitography for preoperative evaluation. Cystourethroscopy is superior in identifying the abnormal anatomy, but it lacks precision in taking measurements. Genitography can avoid this drawback and can precisely measure the confluence depth, vaginal dimensions, and length of the proximal urethra. We suggest using this formula (length of the urethra proximal to the confluence/depth of bladder neck) to classify persistent UGS as low (> / = 0.63 mm) and high (< 0.63 mm).
Οι κομματικοί σχηματισμοί στην Ελλάδα (1875-1909)
Authors: Παπαναστασοπούλου Αλεξάνδρα
Published: May 2024

Στόχος της παρούσας διατριβής είναι η μελέτη των ελληνικών κομματικών σχηματισμών από το 1875 έως το 1909. Βασική υπόθεση εργασίας αποτελεί ότι η ψηφοφορία για την εκλογή Προέδρου της Βουλής αποτελεί τη σαφέστερη ένδειξη της δύναμης των κομμάτων και των συμμαχιών τους στο κοινοβούλιο. Χρησιμοποιώντας την υπάρχουσα βιβλιογραφία για την πολιτική ιστορία της χώρας, τα επίσημα στοιχεία που αντλήθηκαν από τα κοινοβουλευτικά και τα κρατικά αρχεία και τον ημερήσιο αθηναϊκό τύπο προτείνεται μία νέα μεθοδολογική μέθοδος στην οποία η κατάταξη των βουλευτών γίνεται με τη χρήση μιας συνάρτησης που δημιουργήθηκε λαμβάνοντας υπόψιν τις κατάλληλες μεταβλητές που εφαρμόστηκαν στο σύνολο των ψηφοφοριών της εξεταζόμενης περιόδου. Με αυτόν τον τρόπο πραγματοποιήθηκε η σύζευξη ποιοτικής και ποσοτικής μεθοδολογίας. Τα κυριότερα συμπεράσματα συνοψίζονται στον ετεροκαθορισμό της ελληνικής πολιτικής ζωής, στην απουσία ιδεολογικών γραμμών και στη μεγάλη επίδραση επιμέρους παραγόντων και τοπικών συμφερόντων των βουλευτών, στην ανάγκη «αποκατάστασης» ορισμένων προσωπικοτήτων σε σχέση με τη φήμη και την εικόνα που τις περιέβαλε, στη διαχρονικότητα της Μεγάλης Ιδέας και στη σύνδεσή της με τις αλλεπάλληλες εκφάνσεις του Ανατολικού Ζητήματος. Ιδιαίτερη έμφαση δίνεται στα χαρακτηριστικά του κομματικού συστήματος της περιόδου δηλαδή στη διαμόρφωσή του πάνω σε δημοκρατική βάση, στη χαλαρή κοινοβουλευτική πειθαρχία, στην αστάθεια και στην αδυναμία θεσμοποίησής του. Η μελέτη του χαρακτηριζόμενου ως αμιγώς πλειοψηφικού εκλογικού συστήματος καταδεικνύει την περιπτωσιολογική λειτουργία του ως ενισχυμένη αναλογική, σημείο το οποίο θα μπορούσε να αποτελέσει υπόθεση εργασίας για μια μελλοντική έρευνα.
Identification of mesenchymal specific pathways in intestinal carcinogenesis
Authors: Χαλκίδη Νίκη
Published: May 2024

Ο καρκίνος του παχέος εντέρου είναι ο τρίτος πιο κοινός τύπος καρκίνου και η δεύτερη πιο συχνή αιτία θανάτου από καρκίνο παγκοσμίως. Είναι πλέον γνωστό πως εκτός από τα καρκινικά κύτταρα, το μικροπεριβάλλον του όγκου συμμετέχει ενεργά σε όλα τα στάδια της καρκινογένεσης. Οι καρκινικοί ινοβλάστες αποτελούν βασικό συστατικό του μικροπεριβάλλοντος του όγκου και διαδραματίζουν σημαντικό ρόλο στην ανάπτυξη και εξέλιξη των όγκων. Παρά τις σημαντικές προόδους των τελευταίων χρόνων σχετικά με τη ετερογένεια που χαρακτηρίζει τους καρκινικούς ινοβλάστες, οι γνώσεις μας όσον αφορά τη προέλευση και την ακριβή τους λειτουργία μέσα στο περιβάλλον του όγκου παραμένουν ελλειπείς. Σκοπός της παρούσας διδακτορικής διατριβής είναι η διερεύνηση της προέλευσης των καρκινικών ινοβλαστών και η ανάδειξη των διαφορικών τους ρόλων μέσω της αναγνώρισης καταβολικών μονοπατιών κατά την εντερική καρκινογένεση.Χρησιμοποιώντας τον Col6a1Cre ποντικό, επιτύχαμε τη στόχευση ενός διακριτού πληθυσμού καρκινικών ινοβλαστών (KI) σε δύο μοντέλα εντερικής καρκινογένεσης ποντικών. Οι Col6a1+ KI διατηρούσαν κάποια από τα κυριότερα ομοιοστατικά χαρακτηριστικά τους, ενώ ταυτόχρονα ήταν ενεργοποιημένοι, καθιστώντας σαφές ότι οι καρκινικοί ινοβλάστες προέρχονται από ήδη υπάρχοντες πληθυσμούς ινοβλαστών. Ανάλυση του RNA των κυττάρων έδειξε ότι οι Col6a1+ ΚΙ ήταν κυρίως περικύτταρα (ή αγγειακοί καρκινικοί ινοβλάστες) και σε μικρότερο βαθμό PDGFRαhi τελοκύτταρα, σε συμφωνία με τη σημαντική αύξηση των περικυττάρων στους όγκους του παχέος εντέρου. Ιn vitro και in vivo πειράματα έδειξαν ότι οι Col6a1+ KI έχουν προ-καρκινικές ιδιότητες, καθώς μπορούσαν να υποστηρίξουν την ανάπτυξη καρκινικών οργανοείδων σε συγκαλλιέργειες, αλλά και την αύξηση ξενομοσχευμάτων. Μηχανιστικά, οι Col6a1+ ΚΙ ανταποκρίνονταν σε έμφυτα ερεθίσματα in vitro παράγωντας φλεγμονώδεις ουσίες, όπως κυτοκίνες, χημειοκίνες και ένζυμα που διαμορφώνουν την εξωκυττάρια θεμέλια ουσία. In vivo, η απόκριση των Col6a1+ ΚΙ σε σηματοδοτικά μόρια της έμφυτης ανοσίας μέσω του σηματοδοτικού μονοπατιού TLR4/Myd88 ήταν απαραίτητη για την καρκινογένεση που προκαλείται λόγω της μετάλλαξης στο γονίδιο Apc και όχι την καρκινογένεση που σχετίζεται με την κολίτιδα. Τα ευρήματα αυτής της έρευνας συμβάλλουν στην καλύτερη κατανόηση της ετερογένειας των καρκινικών ινοβλαστών και παρέχουν πολύτιμες για την ενεργοποίηση των καρκινικών ινοβλαστών του εντέρου από μηνύματα του έμφυτου ανοσοποιητικού συστήματος.
META-EMOTIONS: CONCEPT, STRUCTURE AND APPROACHES TO STUDY
Authors: Kondratyev Dmitry A. , Fomin Andrey E.
Published: May 2024

The article examines the concept of meta-emotions or second-order emotions. The latter are understood as the emotions that the subject experiences regarding his own emotions, as well as the emotions of another person. An analysis of the development of this construct in philosophical and psychological research is presented. In this context, the relevance of introducing the concept of meta-emotions into the categorical apparatus of psychology and the empirical study of meta-emotional processes is discussed. In psychological studies of meta-emotions, two approaches have been identified that have developed to date. First, meta-emotions are considered as a component of emotional education strategies that parents implement in relation to their children. Secondly, meta-emotions are studied as part of the development of the problem of emotional intelligence, in particular based on the phenomena of meta-mood. The article also discusses the question of the structure of meta-emotions. Options are analyzed that provide a general formal description of the structure of meta-emotional activity (the object of meta-emotions, goals in the context of which meta-emotional states arise, feedback between meta-emotions and emotional goals). At the same time, the model of J. Gottman et al. is presented, in which meta-emotions act as an essential component of parents’ approaches to the emotional regulation of the child’s behavior, which are different in their productivity. Conclusions are drawn regarding the possibility of using the model of parental meta-emotions in relation to situations of educational interaction between a teacher and a student.
Purpose. The article is devoted to the topic of meta-emotions, which is relevant in the current state of development of psychology and pedagogy. The subject of analysis is meta-emotions in parent-child relationships. The author aims to explore the concept, structure and modern approaches to the study of meta-emotions, as well as to analyze the model of the influence of parental meta-emotions on the child’s results in the development of emotional self-regulation skills by J. Gottman and Katz and determine the possibilities of its use in relation to the interaction between teacher and student.
Methodology. The basis of the study is observation, the method of generalization of independent characteristics and twin methods.
Results. The results of the work are that the author emphasizes the presence of a close relationship between the child’s ability for emotional self-regulation based on the understanding of meta-emotions by the subjects of education represented by parents or teachers.
Practical implications. The results of the study can be applied in the field of psychological and pedagogical interaction between subjects of education and students based on the analysis of meta-emotions and emotional self-regulation.
INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE IN ORGANIZING CAREER PROGRESSION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF TEACHERS
Authors: Vachkova Svetlana N. , Salakhova Valentina B. , Antonov Nikolay V. , Ageyeva Natalia S.
Published: May 2024

The global challenges of today’s world define school teachers as key actors of the education system’s development. This agenda has led to the fact that various countries are actively implementing additional education programs and strategies aimed at building leadership skills and management competencies in teaching staff. One of the essential factors that ensures education quality and its efficiency is providing teachers with diverse career opportunities. Based on the theoretical study, the authors have identified typical teacher career structures, teacher career models, career ladders and trajectories, as well as requirements to career growth in the countries of the world. The research findings include showcasing best international practices of organizing teacher career progression based on the case studies of three countries – Japan, China (Shanghai), and Singapore; defining the main trends that must be taken into account when planning and implementing supporting measures for school teachers’ professional development; identifying the key components of activities aimed at supporting teacher professional development at schools.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE PROFESSIONAL RESILIENCE OF A PSYCHOLOGIST WITH THE FACTORS OF ENSURING HIS PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY
Authors: Kislyakov Pavel A. , Shmeleva Elena A. , Silaeva Olga A. , Meyerson Isaac-Leib S.
Published: May 2024

Relevance. The study of professional resilience of psychologists as representatives of the helping profession with psychological risks for specialists is presented. The aim of the work is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of professional resilience of a psychologist in the relationship with psychological factors of psychological safety.
Research methods. In the study we used the scale of subjective well-being, the methodology for assessing professional resilience, the questionnaire of coping with stress, the assessment of satisfaction with the need for safety, and professional burnout. The target sample of the study included 54 practicing female psychologists aged 27 to 65 years.
The results of the study specify professional resilience of a psychologist as a predictor of his/her psychological well-being and at the same time as a protector of professional burnout through productive coping strategies contributing to psychological safety. A high level of professional resilience of psychologists can help them prevent or reduce the risk of professional burnout, ensuring the preservation of energy, motivation and satisfaction in work, and as a consequence, psychological well-being in connection with professional activity.
Funding. The research was funded by the grant from the Russian Science Foundation No. 22-18-00678, https://rscf.ru/project/22-18-00678/, Ivanovo State University.
Dzieci niczyje?
Authors: Korybut-Marciniak Maria
Published: May 2024

Artykuł skupia uwagę na pensjonariuszach wileńskiego przytułku – Szpitala Dzieciątka Jezus w Wilnie. Szpital został założony w 1791 r. Pełnił funkcję przytułku dla dzieci przez cały wiek XIX. Do zakładu trafiały dzieci osierocone i porzucone, dzieci więźniów i zesłańców i pozostawały w nim do 15 roku życia. Był to jedyny tego typu zakład w Wilnie, który przyjmował niemowlęta. Artykuł prezentuje próbę określenia pochodzenia podrzutków i ustalenia przyczyn ich porzucania. Rzuca również światło na rodziców (głównie matki) dzieci trafiających do przytułku. Podstawą analiz jest rękopiśmienny „Dziennik dla wpisywania niemowląt” z lat 1814-1825.
Dokąd zmierza historia w Afryce?
Authors: Adeboye Olufunke
Published: May 2024

Translation of the opening lecture during XXIII International Congress of Historical Sciences (WHERE IS HISTORY GOING IN AFRICA?)
Michaela Hrubá, Jan Royt, Táňa Šimková, The Mining Towns oft he bohemian Ore Mountains in the Early Modern Period and Their Impact on Cultural History.
Authors: Czechowicz Bogusław
Published: May 2024

Recenzja syntetyzujaco-problemowej książki czeskich badaczy na temat dziejów i kulturowego potencjału Rudaw Czeskich w XV-XVII wieku.