bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative analysis of seven commonly used synthetic food color additives by HPLC-PDA
Authors: Min You Rim , Hong Jun-Bae , Han Sam , Choi Min-Ji , Shim Seong Bo , Jang Hae-Won , Lee Jung-Bin
Published: November 2024

Sixteen color additives (tar colors) were detected in 128 food samples (macarons, meringue cookies, and coque macarons) using HPLC with a photodiode array detector at 420 nm, 520 nm, and 620 nm for the yellow, red, and blue and green color types, respectively. The tar color recovery rates ranged from 81.3 to 95.6%, and their limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) were 0.001–0.049 mg/kg and 0.004–0.147 mg/kg, respectively. Seven tar colors (Y4, Y5, R3, R40, R102, B1, and B2) were detected in 129 samples. All the samples did not contain nine tar colors (R2, G3, Azo, R106, QY, ORII, BBN, PBV, and GS). The quantity of tar colors (Y4, Y5, R40, and B1) in 15 samples exceeded the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) standard. Ninety samples (70%) used a mixture of two or more tar colors, and the amount used was 11.0–1643.3 mg/kg. The quantity of combined tar colors in 15 samples exceeded 300 mg/kg. Through these findings, this study aims to contribute to the development of safer and more reliable desserts containing tar colors, by enhancing safety measures and ensuring improved quality control for consumer protection.
Virtual fencing in remote boreal forests: performance of commercially available GPS collars for free-ranging cattle
Authors: Versluijs Erik , Tofastrud Morten , Hessle Anna , Serrouya Robert , Scasta Derek , Wabakken Petter , Zimmermann Barbara
Published: November 2024

Background

The use of virtual fencing in cattle farming is beneficial due to its flexibility, not fragmenting the landscape or restricting access like physical fences. Using GPS (Global Positioning System) technology, virtual fence units emit an audible signal and a low-energy electric shock when crossing a predefined border. In large remote grazing areas and complex terrains, where the performance of the GPS units can be affected by landscape structure, increased positioning errors can lead to unnecessary shocks to the animals leading to animal welfare concerns. This study aimed to explore factors affecting the GPS performance of commercially available virtual fence collars for cattle (NoFence©), both using static tests and mobile tests, i.e., when deployed on free-ranging cattle.

Results

The static tests revealed generally high fix success rates (% successful positioning attempts), and a lower success rate at four of 30 test locations was most likely due to a lack in GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) coverage. On average the GPS precision and accuracy errors were 3.3 m ± 2.5 SD and 4.6 m ± 3.2 SD, respectively. We found strong evidence that the GPS precision and accuracy errors increased errors under closed canopies. We also found evidence for an effect of the sky-view on the GPS performance, although at a lesser extent than canopy. The direction of the accuracy error in the Cartesian plane was not uniform, but biased, depending on the aspect of the test locations. With an average of 10.8 m ± 6.8 SD, the accuracy error of the mobile tests was more than double that of the static tests. Furthermore, we found evidence that more rugged landscapes resulted in higher GPS accuracy errors. However, the error from mobile tests was not affected by canopy cover, sky-view, or cattle behaviors.

Conclusions

This study showed that GPS performance can be negatively affected by landscape complexity, such as increased ruggedness and covered habitats, resulting in reduced virtual fence effectiveness and potential welfare concerns for cattle. These issues can be mitigated through proper pasture planning, such as avoiding rugged areas for the virtual fence border.
Psychological dynamics of overqualification: career anxiety and decision commitment in STEM
Authors: Khan Ali Nawaz , Soomro Mohsin Ali , Khan Naseer Abbas , Bodla Ali Ahmad
Published: November 2024

Women’s career progression and empowerment in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) sectors are critical to attaining SDG 5: Gender Equality because they promote equal access to education, job prospects, and leadership roles, building a more inclusive and equitable society. The purpose of this study is to look into the impact of perceived overqualification (POQ) on career anxiety and career decidedness (CD) among women in STEM disciplines while also considering the function of career identity (CI) and leadership support. With a total sample size of 1,045 participants, two distinct investigations were conducted, one in the educational field (N = 530) and one in an industry setting (N = 515 time-lag). To test the model, the analysis was carried out using the AMOS-24 software program. Our findings show a favorable association between women’s perceptions of overqualification in STEM and their CI. Furthermore, our research shows that a stronger CI among women in STEM corresponds to decreased career anxiety and increased CD. Additionally, we find that a CI is a mediator between POQ and both career anxiety and CD. Our findings also highlight the moderating effect of leadership support in this mediation process. We discuss the theoretical and practical ramifications of these findings.
The systemic and local interactions related to titanium implant corrosion and hypersensitivity reactions: a narrative review of the literature
Authors: Swalsky Alexander , Noumbissi Sammy S. , Wiedemann Thomas G.
Published: November 2024

Both commercially pure titanium and titanium alloys are established biomaterials for implantation in bone and are widely used today in dentistry. Titanium particulates have been shown in some patient clusters to induce cellular immune mediators responsible for type I and IV hypersensitivity reactions, causing amplified corrosion, osteolysis, and increased odds of implant failure. Systemically, titanium particles were found to affect varying organ tissues and cause potentially harmful effects. In vivo and vitro studies have shown that titanium dental implant corrosion can be induced by factors relating to bio-tribocorrosion. In this literature review, the consequences of titanium implant corrosion and particulate dissemination are discussed and later juxtaposed against a promising novel implant material, zirconia. Zirconia offers characteristics similar to titanium along with additional advantages such as being non-corrosive and having a lower propensity for inducing immune responses. From the mounting evidence discussed in this article, metal allergy testing would be advantageous for choosing an appropriate implant material to minimize potential adverse effects on cellular functions of local and diffuse tissues. Objective: This literature review aims to elucidate and describe mechanisms in which titanium implants may become corroded and induce cellular aberrations both locally and systemically in vivo. Implications of this study provide supportive evidence regarding the selection of appropriate biomaterials for implant patients susceptible to mounting a hypersensitivity reaction to titanium.
An eye’s look unmasks the mystery: correlation between serum amyloid beta peptide, hippocampal volume and retinal thickness in Alzheimer`s disease
Authors: Abou Elmaaty Ali Ahmed , Eissa Mona Ali , Elrashedy Shady , Zehry Hamada Ibrahim , Mosa Ahmed Abdulatif , Zarad Carmen Ali , Abdel-dayem Marwa Ahmad , Elnokrashy Amgad , Elsherifi Saad Shawki
Published: November 2024

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the commonest worldwide neurodegenerative disorder. Nevertheless, it usually face difficulties to guarantee a secured initial diagnosis. For this reason, neurologists are in dire need for developing potential biomarkers that could be relied upon confidentially in early diagnosis of AD. Hopefully, this will open the gate for novel modifying therapy to fight with all their might. In this current study, we aimed to correlate plasma levels of tau and Aβ with the changes that occur in hippocampal volume and thickness of retinal fiber layers in patients who clinically diagnosed with AD spectrum. A cross-sectional study enrolled 60 AD patients who fulfilled inclusion and exclusion criteria were subjected to cognitive, radiologic, laboratory and optical coherence tomography (OCT) assessments.

Results

Tau, Aβ1–40, and Aβ1–40/Aβ1–42 ratio are significant discriminators of AD at cutoff values of >23.45, > 84.4, and > 1.95, respectively. MRI hippocampal volume in both right and left sides are also good discriminators of AD at cutoff values of ≤ 2.997, and ≤ 2.994, respectively. A significant correlations were reported between tau with Aβ1–40, Aβ1–42, MMSE and MRI right and left hippocampal volumes. On comparing moderate versus mild AD, there was a high significant levels of tau, Aβ1–42, Aβ1–40/Aβ1–42 ratio.

Conclusions

We clarify that several biomarkers could be potentially used for confirming the diagnosis of AD. Assessment of plasma amyloid level, detection of hippocampal atrophy and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness changes are promising tools for early diagnosis of AD.
Corneal and lens densitometry evaluation with Pentacam HR in children and adolescents with beta thalassemia major: a case–control study
Authors: Hanna Diana , Atfy Mervat , Bor’i Ashraf , Elsayed Marwa , el-Sattar Eman Mohamed Abd , Gameil Dalia
Published: November 2024

Background

Beta thalassemia major is an inherited blood disorder due to a mutation of the β globin chain gene. Ocular complications have increasingly been reported in β-thalassemia patients with a negative influence on the health related quality of life. Many studies have reported the ocular anomalies, mainly focused on the posterior ocular segment; however, the data is limited regarding the anterior segment structures.

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the corneal and lens densitometry using the Pentacam HR in children and adolescents with transfusion dependent β-thalassemia major in comparative to healthy controls and to detect the subclinical ocular affection in those patients.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted on 47 regularly transfused β-thalassemia major patients and 47 age and sex-matching healthy controls. Assessments of corneal keratometry, corneal densitometry (12 mm corneal diameter), and lenticular densitometry were done by the Pentacam HR imaging. The morphology of the corneal endothelium was examined by the specular microscopy.

Results

Among the corneal topographic parameters, K1 (P = 0.037, P = 0.024 on right and left sides respectively), K2 (P < 0.001 bilaterally), and CV (P < 0.001 bilaterally) were found to be significantly lower in the cases group in relative to controls. Endothelial cell density (ECD) was found to be significantly less among thalassemic patients. We detected a significantly lower corneal light backscattering in the cases group in almost all corneal layers. There was a statistically significant increase in the lens densitometry measurements in thalassemic group in all zones (P < 0.001). A positive correlation between left PDZ1% and deferasirox dose was found (r = 0.307, P = 0.036), and left lens thickness increased with more frequent transfusion (r = − 0.338, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

We detected a significant change in patients with β-thalassemia major regarding corneal and lens densitometry measurements when compared to healthy controls. These findings might represent a new hope for using Pentacam as a fast, reliable, and non-invasive tool in subclinical detection of corneal and lens abnormalities. We recommend performing baseline ocular assessment for newly diagnosed patients as well as a regular monitoring using Pentacam to early detect and prevent permanent impairment.
Respiratory muscle strength, pain and pulmonary complications in adult patients following median sternotomy during hospital stay: a longitudinal observational study
Authors: Gissing Cary-Anne , Roos Ronel
Published: November 2024

Background

Pulmonary complications influence morbidity, mortality and hospital stay in patients following cardiac surgery. Acute post-operative pain and less than optimal respiratory muscle strength may affect a patient’s ability to take deep breaths, cough and clear secretions, thereby influencing recovery after surgery. To date, few studies described patients’ pain levels, respiratory muscle strength and the presence of pulmonary dysfunction preoperatively and evaluated the effect of a median sternotomy on parameters at hospital discharge. This study investigates this in patients at a private urban hospital in South Africa.

Methods

Participants were consecutively sampled for this longitudinal observational study and assessed at hospital admission and discharge. The visual analogue scale provides information on participants’ pain levels. Respiratory muscle strength (maximal inspiratory pressure and peak inspiratory flow) was assessed with a POWERbreathe KHI device. The presence of pulmonary complications was determined with a chest X-ray radiographic scoring tool. Descriptive and inferential analyses with significance set at p ≤ 0.05 were performed.

Results

The population consisted of 61 participants [males: n = 47 (77%)], and the majority underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery (n = 35, 57%) and had a theatre time of 5.84 (± 1.30) h and time on cardiopulmonary bypass 2.01 (IQR1.14) h. Intensive care stay was 5 (IQR 2.75) days with mechanical ventilation time 17.33 (IQR 11.21) h and hospital stay 9 (IQR 7) days. Forty-one (67.2%) participants had weak respiratory muscles at hospital admission. Respiratory muscle strength reduced significantly between hospital admission and discharge: maximal inspiratory pressure: 55 cmH20 vs 30.66 cmH20, p < 0.001, and peak inspiratory flow: 2.70 l/s vs. 1.66 l/s, p < 0.001. Atelectasis (n = 28, 46, 6%) and pleural fluid (n = 26, 43, 3%) were chest X-ray abnormalities at hospital discharge. Chest X-ray scores (Z =  − 5.825, p < 0.001) and pain levels (Z =  − 5.867, p < 0.001) increased significantly over time. There was a fair, negative correlation between admission maximal inspiratory pressure and chest X-ray scores, which was statistically significant (r =  − 0.356, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Respiratory muscle weakness, abnormal chest X-ray findings and persistent pain were noted in study participants. This study highlights the need for continued rehabilitation services to optimise patient outcomes as it relates to ventilation and pain management.
Perceptions of Implementing Real-Time Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes and Digital Analytics in a Majority-Minority Cancer Center
Authors: Arcos Daniela , Dagsi Mary , Nasr Reem , Nguyen Carolyn , Ng Ding Quan , Chan Alexandre
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

Electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) tools are increasingly used to provide first-hand information on patient's symptoms and quality of life. This study explored how patients and health care providers (HCPs) perceive the use of a digital real-time ePRO tool, coupled with digital analytics at a cancer center located in a majority-minority county. Furthermore, we described the implementation barriers and facilitators identified from the participants' perspectives.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative substudy as part of a larger implementation study conducted at University of California Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. Patients and HCPs completed semistructured interviews and a focus group discussion. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes regarding perceived impact of the intervention on patient's care and implementation factors.

RESULTS

A total of 31 participants, comprising 15 patients (67% English-speaking, 33% Spanish-speaking) and 16 HCPs (43.8% pharmacists, 37.5% physicians, 18.8% nurses), were interviewed. The utilization of real-time ePRO was perceived to beneficially affect patient care, improve patient-provider communication, and increase symptom awareness. Implementation facilitators included ease of comprehension and completion within the infusion center. Barriers included the need to incorporate results in electronic medical records and create real-time referral pathways to address patient's needs.

CONCLUSION

The use of real-time ePRO in a majority-minority population was perceived to enhance patient-centered oncology care, yet implementation barriers must be addressed for successful integration in clinical settings. The findings from this study may inform implementation strategies to reduce health disparities.
Living on Pea-nuts: Gissing, Fiction, Subsistence
Authors: Kreilkamp Ivan
Published: November 2024

This essay considers the three major novels George Gissing published between 1889 and 1893: The Nether World, New Grub Street, and The Odd Women. These Long Depression novels, as they could be called, demonstrate the constant pressure exerted by the need to earn money to hold starvation at bay, to achieve an always precarious subsistence or survival. Gissing depicts circular, inescapable patterns in which one writes to earn money in order to survive just long enough to write more to buy more—never enough—food. His novels insistently ponder, and seem to try to literalize in reflexive ways, the question of what it means to “live on” one's writing as a late nineteenth-century author. In so doing, this article suggests, these novels participate in the transformation of hunger from a troubling Malthusian fact of nature to be managed by political economy into both a biopolitical tool of the state, seen as a positive good in its spur to labor, as well as a central topos of an emerging modernist style of fiction that reflects, draws attention to, and critiques those biopolitical mechanisms. Notwithstanding his criticisms of a society that leaves artists hungry, Gissing seemed to personally believe that his own experiences of having “looked starvation in the face,” having passed through “circumstances of hunger” and converted them into art, were part of what gave his work value and meaning.
From the Papers of a Formalist Critic: Kierkegaard's Theory of the Novel
Authors: Andersen Claus Elholm
Published: November 2024

This article argues that Kierkegaard is a pioneer when it comes to theorizing about the novel and fiction. In a close reading of From the Papers of One Still Living (1838), the article shows how Kierkegaard in this early work on the novels of Hans Christian Andersen turns to a study of the formal features of the novel to distinguish what—and what does not—make novelistic characters believable and come to life. From here, the article proposes that Kierkegaard's theory of the novel is a theory that equates the novel with its most identifiable characteristic: fictionality.
Science Education for Girls in Korea, 1886–1910
Authors: Lee Janet Yoon-sun
Published: November 2024

The emergence of modern schools marked a significant transformation in women's education in Korea from the late nineteenth to the early twentieth centuries. For Western missionaries, building schools for girls was instrumental in their pursuit of evangelical objectives. The inception of Ewha Haktang (Ewha Girls’ School) in 1886 and Chŏngsin Yŏhakkyo (Chŏngsin Girls’ School) in 1887 aimed to mold Korean women into both devout Christians and adept homemakers. Gradually, the educational scope of mission schools expanded, encompassing a diverse array of scientific subjects, providing opportunities for women to pursue careers beyond the domestic realm. This study delves into the intricate construction of science education from 1886 until 1910 and highlights the pivotal role played by American female missionaries in shaping science as essential knowledge for women within their evangelical framework. Specifically, the article focuses on the development of physiology as a core subject that nurtured students’ interest in learning systematic theories of nature and the human body based on observation. While tracing how physiology became integral to science education for girls, this study argues that American female missionaries were the first to shape the initial encounter with modern science by mediating, translating, and educating physiology for women.
Decoding Glioblastoma Heterogeneity: Neuroimaging Meets Machine Learning
Authors: Fares Jawad , Wan Yizhou , Mayrand Roxanne , Li Yonghao , Mair Richard , Price Stephen J.
Published: November 2024

Recent advancements in neuroimaging and machine learning have significantly improved our ability to diagnose and categorize isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wildtype glioblastoma, a disease characterized by notable tumoral heterogeneity, which is crucial for effective treatment. Neuroimaging techniques, such as diffusion tensor imaging and magnetic resonance radiomics, provide noninvasive insights into tumor infiltration patterns and metabolic profiles, aiding in accurate diagnosis and prognostication. Machine learning algorithms further enhance glioblastoma characterization by identifying distinct imaging patterns and features, facilitating precise diagnoses and treatment planning. Integration of these technologies allows for the development of image-based biomarkers, potentially reducing the need for invasive biopsy procedures and enabling personalized therapy targeting specific pro-tumoral signaling pathways and resistance mechanisms. Although significant progress has been made, ongoing innovation is essential to address remaining challenges and further improve these methodologies. Future directions should focus on refining machine learning models, integrating emerging imaging techniques, and elucidating the complex interplay between imaging features and underlying molecular processes. This review highlights the pivotal role of neuroimaging and machine learning in glioblastoma research, offering invaluable noninvasive tools for diagnosis, prognosis prediction, and treatment planning, ultimately improving patient outcomes. These advances in the field promise to usher in a new era in the understanding and classification of IDH-wildtype glioblastoma.
WNT7A-positive dendritic cytonemes control synaptogenesis in cortical neurons
Authors: Piers Thomas M. , Fang Kevin , Namboori Seema C. , Liddle Corin , Rogers Sally , Bhinge Akshay , Killick Richard , Scholpp Steffen
Published: November 2024

Synaptogenesis involves the transformation of dendritic filopodial contacts into stable connections with the exact apposition of synaptic components. Signalling triggered by Wnt/β-catenin and calcium has been postulated to aid this process. However, it is unclear how such a signalling process orchestrates synapse formation to organise the spatial arrangement of synapses along dendrites. We show that WNT7A is loaded on dynamic dendritic filopodia during spine formation in human cortical neurons. WNT7A is present at the tips of the filopodia and the contact sites with dendrites of neighbouring neurons, triggering spatially restricted localisation of the Wnt co-receptor LRP6. Here, we demonstrate that WNT7A at filopodia tips leads to the induction of calcium transients, the clustering of pre- and postsynaptic proteins, and the subsequent transformation into mature spines. Although soluble WNT7A protein can also support synaptogenesis, it fails to provide this degree of spatial information for spine formation and calcium transients, and synaptic markers are induced ectopically along the dendrites. Our data suggest that dendritic filopodia are WNT7A-bearing cytonemes required for focal calcium signalling and initiation of synapse formation, and provide an elegant mechanism for orchestrating the positioning of synapses along dendrites.
Phospho-regulation of ASCL1-mediated chromatin opening during cellular reprogramming
Authors: Azzarelli Roberta , Gillen Sarah , Connor Frances , Lundie-Brown Jethro , Puletti Francesca , Drummond Rosalind , Raffaelli Ana , Philpott Anna
Published: November 2024

The proneural transcription factor ASCL1 regulates neurogenesis and drives somatic cell reprogramming into neurons. However, not all cell types can be reprogrammed by ASCL1, raising the questions of what provides competence and how we can overcome barriers to enable directed differentiation. Here, we investigate how levels of ASCL1 and its phosphorylation modulate its activity over progressive lineage restriction of mouse embryonic stem cells. We find that inhibition of ASCL1 phosphorylation enhances reprogramming of both mesodermal and neuroectodermal cells, while pluripotent cells remain refractory to ASCL1-directed neuronal differentiation. By performing RNA-seq and ATAC-seq in neuroectoderm, we find that un(der)phosphorylated ASCL1 causes increased chromatin accessibility at sites proximal to neuronal genes, accompanied by their increased expression. Combined analysis of protein stability and proneural function of phosphomutant and phosphomimetic ASCL1 reveals that protein stability plays only a marginal role in regulating activity, while changes in amino acid charge cannot fully explain enhanced activity of the serine-proline mutant variants of ASCL1. Our work provides new insights into proneural factor activity and regulation, and suggests ways to optimize reprogramming protocols in cancer and regenerative medicine.
Regulation of miR-206 in denervated and dystrophic muscles, and its effect on acetylcholine receptor clustering
Authors: Barden Joseph , Kosloski Olivia , Jadidian Amir , Akaaboune Mohammed
Published: November 2024

The muscle-specific microRNA miR-206 has recently emerged as a potential regulator of genes involved in the formation and regeneration of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). This study investigated miR-206-3p (miR-206) expression in synaptic and non-synaptic regions of denervated mice and α-dystrobrevin (Dtna)-knockout mice, as well as its impact on the formation and/or maintenance of agrin-induced acetylcholine receptor (AChR) clusters. In denervated, Dtna-deficient and crushed muscles, miR-206 expression significantly increased compared to what was seen for innervated muscles. Although miR-206 expression was slightly elevated in the synaptic regions of innervated muscles, it was dramatically increased in non-synaptic areas of denervated muscles. miR-206 targets transcripts of essential NMJ proteins, such as Dtna, α-syntrophin (Snta1) and rapsyn, but not the AChRα subunit (encoded by Chrna1) or Lrp4 in innervated muscles. However, in denervated muscles, AChRα transcripts, which increased significantly, become a target of miR-206. Co-expression of miR-206 with rapsyn, Dtna and Snta1 in C2C12 myoblasts significantly reduced their protein levels, and overexpression of miR-206 in myotubes disrupted agrin-induced AChR clustering. These results indicate that miR-206 fine-tunes NMJ signaling proteins by regulating transcripts of various proteins with different localizations under normal and pathological conditions.
A nested case-control study of circular ribonucleic acid expression profiles in the peripheral blood of pregnant women with pre-eclampsia
Authors: Liao Qiuping , Zheng Lin , Xu Liangpu , Jiang Lingling , Luo Jinying , Yan Jianying
Published: November 2024

Objective: To examine the expression of circular ribonucleic acid (circRNA) in the peripheral blood of pregnant women with preeclampsia (PE) prior to the onset of the disease.
Method: A prospective nested case-control study included pregnant women who delivered at Fujian Maternal and Child Health Hospitals between November 2021 and October 2022. The study included three women diagnosed with PE (the PE group) and three healthy pregnant women (the control group). The expression of circRNAs in the peripheral blood before clinical diagnosis at 20 weeks gestation was analyzed by microarray technology, and the functional analysis and regulatory network prediction were done.
Result: There were 162 circRNAs with differentially expressed multiplicity of > 2.0 in the PE group compared to the control group. Out of them, 30 circRNAs were up-regulated and 132 were down-regulated. Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that the host genes of the differentially expressed circRNAs mainly participated in protein localization to plasma membrane, insemination, etc. Most enriched terms were related to cytoplasmic dynein complex, microtubule cytoskeleton, etc. In terms of molecular function, the enriched terms were related to dynein light intermediate chain binding, polyubiquitin modification-dependent protein binding, etc. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signaling pathway enrichment analysis revealed that differentially expressed circRNAs were involved in vasopressin-regulated water reabsorption, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-protein kinase G (cGMP-PKG), calcium- and other signaling pathways.
Conclusion: CircRNAs are involved in a variety of biological processes and regulatory network related to the pathogenesis of PE.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.10317
How to cite this: Liao Q, Zheng L, Xu L, Jiang L, Luo J, Yan J. A nested case-control study of circular ribonucleic acid expression profiles in the peripheral blood of pregnant women with pre-eclampsia. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2658-2664-. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.10317
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Outcome analysis of differentiated thyroid cancer: Experience from tertiary care in Karachi
Authors: Furqan Saira , Ahmed Asma , Batool Sumera , Najmul Islam
Published: November 2024

Objective: Although differentiated thyroid cancers have a good prognosis overall, their incidence is on the rise with extremely limited data available in our region. The objective was to describe the outcomes of differentiated thyroid carcinoma in a tertiary care hospital.
Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital. The data was collected by reviewing the charts and reports of patients (1999-2011) diagnosed with differentiated thyroid cancer. Information regarding the demographic status, type of differentiated thyroid cancer, stage at the time of presentation, and the outcome was noted. The study endpoints were the disease cure, persistence, and recurrence.
Results: Most of the patients were diagnosed with papillary carcinoma stage-I (49.0%) having a cure rate of 52.94%, a persistence rate of 28.43%, and a recurrence rate of 18.62%. A 33.3% of patients with follicular carcinoma at stage-4 had zero cure rate, the persistence rate was 25% and the recurrence rate was also 25%. In patients with hurthle cell variant of follicular carcinoma; the majority (60.0%) were diagnosed at stage-I having a cure rate of 80%. The persistence rate was 0%, and the recurrence rate was 20%.
Conclusion: This study highlights the low cure rate while describing the high rate of disease persistence and recurrence. This can be due to delays related to the diagnosis and scarcity of proper treatment. Recognition of this emergent disease is vital so that curative methods prescribed at proper time can diminish the morbidity and mortality linked with this treatable cancer.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.7036
How to cite this: Furqan S, Ahmed A, Batool S, Islam N. Outcome analysis of differentiated thyroid cancer: Experience from tertiary care in Karachi. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2631-2635. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.7036
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The Impact of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter Type-2 Inhibitors on Alanine Aminotransferase Levels in Type-2 Diabetes Patients Having Features of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Pakistan
Authors: Ansari Asefa Shariq , Rizwan Azra , Khan Uzma Zubair , Azam Syed Iqbal
Published: November 2024

Objective: We aimed to elucidate the effectiveness of Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2-I) in the reduction of ALT among Type-2 diabetes patients (T2DM) with Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Methods: We retrospectively collected data from 120 files of T2DM, aged 30-60 years, with elevated ALT, and documented follow-up for one year from August 2018 - July 2019. The effects of SGLT2Is (Dapagliflozin and Empagliflozin) were evaluated using Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) for analysis.
Results: The overall mean age was 48.9 ± 7.3 years, 57.5% were females, and the mean duration of diabetes was 8.5 ± 5.6 years. At baseline, the mean BMI was 32.5 ± 5.7 kg/m2, mean ALT was 51.6 IU/L ± 17.8 IU/L, and mean HbA1c was 8.5% ± 1.5%. There was a statistically significant reduction in mean ALT of 2.2 IU/L (p-value 0.02) with every 10 mg/dl increase in LDL among females using 10 mg Empagliflozin as compared to males not on SGLT2i.
Conclusions: We observed an average reduction in mean ALT levels when SGLT2Is was initiated in T2DM patients having NAFLD. Apart from encouraging diet and lifestyle modification, early intervention with SGLT2Is may decrease liver-related morbidity and mortality resulting from NAFLD.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.8900
How to cite this: Ansari AS, Rizwan A, Khan UZ, Azam SI. Impact of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter Type-2 Inhibitors on Alanine Aminotransferase Levels in Type-2 Diabetes Patients Having Features of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2681-2688. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.8900
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Consensus Guidelines on Constipation in Adults in Pakistan
Authors: Abbasi Amanullah , Vignaraj Emmanuel Anton , Tayyab Ghias Un Nabi , Shafique Kashif , Kamani Lubna , Nasir Muhammad Bilal , Butt Nazish , Sabir Sajjad Hussain , Abid Shahab , Rasool Shahid , Akhter Tayyab Saeed , Azam Zahid
Published: November 2024

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9687
How to cite this: Abbasi A, Emmanuel AV, Tayyab GN, Shafique K, Kamani L, Nasir MB, et al. Consensus Guidelines on Constipation in Adults in Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2763-2768. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9687
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Note: All authors contributed equally in this publication and names are in alphabetical order.
Anti-corruption policy
Authors: Muhaev Rashid
Published: November 2024

The textbook is designed to form a systematic understanding of corruption based on the analysis of foreign and domestic anti-corruption legislation, technologies and anti-corruption practices in different countries. The content of such a complex phenomenon as corruption is presented in a fascinating manner, thanks to an organic combination of theoretical and applied levels of analysis of corruption practices, forms of their manifestations in various spheres of public and private life. The specifics of national models of anti-corruption policy in different countries are revealed, the place and role of the state, civil society institutions, business structures and individuals in the mechanism of combating corruption are shown.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students and postgraduates studying in the fields of training (specialties) "Political Science", "Sociology", "State and municipal administration". It is recommended for use in the process of training and retraining of managers and practitioners of federal, regional and municipal government bodies, university teachers.
Technological bases of wastewater sludge treatment using combined equipment and technologies
Authors: Ksenofontov Boris
Published: November 2024

For the first time in world practice, the monograph examines the issues of intensification of flotation processes of compaction of excess activated sludge through the use of several working fluids. In this regard, the methods of flotation developed by the author with two and three working fluids are described in detail, of which one is a working fluid with a difficult—to-dissolve gas (air), and the others with easily soluble gases, for example, carbon dioxide and biogas. At the same time, the interpretation of the new effect is based on a multistage flotation model developed by the author. This method was developed, tested and used by the author for the first time in domestic practice at biotechnological enterprises. The implementation of this method is also presented in the form of water flow combines using two and three working fluids saturated with gases with different solubility in water.
Much attention is paid to the use of combined equipment and technologies for the dewatering of sewage sludge, including excess activated sludge, as well as their possible disposal. The experience of treatment and utilization of sewage sludge for technical purposes, for example, for the production of building materials, as well as as an organomineral fertilizer, is considered.
For a wide range of readers, including researchers, university professors, bachelors, masters, postgraduates, as well as for anyone interested in wastewater treatment and waste treatment.
Bridging the Gap: Exploring the Relationship between Information Access and Environmental Justice in Library Practices
Authors: Durodolu Oluwole , Oladokun Bolaji
Published: November 2024

Aims: The intersection of information access and environmental justice has become increasingly vital as communities worldwide grapple with environmental challenges. This study explores the relationship between information access and environmental justice in library practices, focusing on academic librarians at the Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region.
Methods: This study utilized a descriptive design. The study involved six academic librarians from the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria, selected for their expertise in facilitating information access and availability especially as it relates to the roles of libraries in environmental justice initiatives within academia. Data were gathered through focus group discussions (FGDs) with the participating librarians, conducted in a conducive and private setting to encourage open dialogue and diverse perspectives. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the FGD transcripts.
Results: The findings emphasize the importance of multilingual resources, targeted outreach, translation services, collaboration with community leaders, consideration of literacy levels, and cultural relevance in ensuring information accessibility. Challenges such as limited internet access, language barriers, disparities in digital literacy, lack of awareness, and resistance from certain community members hinder equitable information access.
Conclusion: The study concludes that librarians contribute to environmental justice advocacy through participation in local initiatives, policy engagement, awareness raising, and collaboration with stakeholders. This study sheds light on the crucial role of libraries in advancing environmental justice and suggests strategies for enhancing information access and advocacy efforts in the pursuit of sustainable development agendas.
Digital literacy of library and information science postgraduates and ubiquitous learning in state owned universities, south-south, Nigeria
Authors: Nsirim Onyema , Okeke Oluchi
Published: November 2024

The study investigated digital literacy of library and information science postgraduate students and ubiquitous learning in state universities in south-South, Nigeria. Four (4) objectives, four research questions, and four hypotheses guided the study. The hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The study adopted a correlational design and the population was 221 comprising library and information science postgraduate students from eight (8) state universities in South-South, Nigeria. The census sampling technique was used to select the entire population of 221 which represents the sample size. Instrument titled “Digital Literacy of Library and Information Science Postgraduate Students and Ubiquitous Learning Questionnaire” (DLLISPSULQ) was used for data collection. The reliability of the instrument was established through test-retest methods and was determined using Cronbach Alpha method which yielded reliability coefficient of 0.89. The study was analyzed using mean and standard deviation for research questions and Pearson Product Moment Correlation for hypotheses. It was revealed that there was a significant relationship between digital literacy of LIS postgraduate students and ubiquitous learning in state universities in South-South, Nigeria. It was recommended that Library and Information Science schools in South-South, Nigeria should as a matter of policy direct all LIS educators to adopt the use of ubiquitous technologies in teaching to enhance the adoption of ubiquitous learning by Postgraduate students.
Outcomes and Adverse Effects of Isotretinoin in Acne Treatment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tylczyńska Kinga , Tylczyńska Natalia , Skiba Jakub , Skiba Zuzanna , Kowalik Kinga , Michalska Maria , Zielińska Aleksandra , Szypulski Szymon , Iwaniuk Sebastian , Maciejewski Ignacy
Published: November 2024

Introduction and purpose: Isotretinoin (13-cis-Retinoic Acid), is a drug for moderate to severe acne that doesn't respond to other treatments. The purpose of this review was to present the mechanism of action, outcomes and adverse effects of isotretinoin.
Description of state of knowledge: Isotretinoin is a very lipophilic drug and is used in dermatology to treat acne vulgaris due to its inhibitory effect on sebaceous gland activity and proliferation. Isotretinoin can cause side effects across various body systems. Extra caution is advised for patients with lipid abnormalities or impaired liver function. For women of reproductive age, it's crucial to use contraception starting one month before, throughout, and for one month after isotretinoin treatment due to teratogenicity.
Conclusions: Oral isotretinoin is a highly effective acne treatment that helps prevent both physical scarring and psychological impacts associated with severe acne. Although generally associated with mild and reversible side effects, isotretinoin is teratogenic, which requires careful patient management.
An Equivalent Reformulation and Multiproximity Gradient Algorithms for a Class of Nonsmooth Fractional Programming
Authors: Zhou Junpeng , Zhang Na , Li Qia
Published: November 2024

We consider a class of structured fractional programs, where the numerator is the sum of a block-separable (possibly nonsmooth nonconvex) function and a locally Lipschitz differentiable (possibly nonconvex) function, and the denominator is a convex (possibly nonsmooth) function. We first present a novel reformulation for the original problem and show the relationship of their optimal solutions, critical points, and Kurdyka-Łojasiewicz (KL) exponents. Inspired by the reformulation, we propose a framework of multiproximity gradient algorithms (MPGA), and show the subsequential convergence analysis for two specific algorithms, namely, cyclic MPGA and randomized MPGA. Moreover, we establish the sequential convergence analysis for cyclic MPGA with the monotone line search (CMPGA_ML) under the KL property. We prove that the corresponding KL exponents are 1/2 for several special cases of the fractional programs, and so, CMPGA_ML exhibits a linear convergence rate. Some preliminary numerical experiment results demonstrate the efficiency of our proposed algorithms.

Funding: The work of N. Zhang was supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 12271181], by the Guangzhou Basic Research Program [Grant 202201010426], and by the Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province [Grant 2023A1515030046], Department of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province. The work of Q. Li was supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 12471098 and 11971499] and the Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Computational Science at the Sun Yat-sen University [Grant 2020B1212060032], Department of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province.
Unveiling the Phytobiotic Potentials of Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) for Poultry Immunology: The Need for More Molecular Research
Authors:   Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Renewable Resources, College of Agricultural Sciences, Ayetoro, Yewa North, P.M.B. 2002, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria., Folarin Itunuola Anne , Olanloye Silifat Adewunmi ,   Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Animal Production and Renewable Resources, College of Agricultural Sciences, Ayetoro, Yewa North, P.M.B. 2002, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria., Folarin Gbolahan Muyiwa ,   Environmental Systems and Climate Change Programme, Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Development and Sustainable Environment, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, 111101, Nigeria
Published: November 2024

Poultry production faces numerous challenges, including infectious diseases, stress, and the need for sustainable alternatives to antibiotics. Herbal additives and probiotics have gained attention as potential immunomodulatory agents to enhance the immune response and overall health of poultry. This review highlights the current understanding of the immunomodulatory effects of dietary Cloves, Syzygium aromaticum on poultry, with a particular emphasis on the need for more molecular research to unravel the underlying mechanisms. This knowledge will facilitate the development of targeted approaches to optimize poultry health, welfare, and productivity in the face of emerging climate change and other challenges.
Unveiling the bacterial microbiota profiles across the gastrointestinal tract regions in dairy buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors:   Philippine Carabao Center National Headquarters and Gene Pool, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija 3120, Philippines, Llantada Phoebe Lyndia T. ,   Graduate School of Bioresources, Mie University, 1577 Kurimamachiya-cho, Tsu City, Mie 514- 8507, Japan, Umekawa Midori ,   Graduate School of Bioresources, Mie University, 1577 Kurimamachiya-cho, Tsu City, Mie 514- 8507, Japan, Karita Shuichi ,   Graduate School of Bioresources, Mie University, 1577 Kurimamachiya-cho, Tsu City, Mie 514- 8507, Japan
Published: November 2024

Understanding the pivotal role of bacterial communities in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of agriculturally significant animals, such as buffalo, on host productivity and health is crucial. However, our knowledge of buffalo GIT bacterial communities remains limited. This study aimed to profile and compare bacterial communities across three distinct GIT regions—forestomach (rumen, reticulum, omasum, abomasum), small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, ileum), and large intestine (cecum, colon, rectum)—in two riverine-type buffaloes using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Fresh samples were collected in triplicate from various GIT sites within two dairy buffaloes reared under identical conditions. Genomic DNA was extracted, and bacterial profiles were analyzed, with sequences annotated using the Green Gene database. The results revealed substantial intra-buffalo variation at lower taxonomic levels, with Bacteroidetes dominating the forestomach and duodenum, while Firmicutes prevailed in the hindgut from the jejunum to the rectum. Comparisons of GIT sites across different buffaloes indicated variations in primary bacterial phyla, with significant taxonomic differences among gut sections in distinct regions but similarities within the same region. This research provides insights into complex microbial communities within the buffalo GIT, contributing to our understanding of buffalo health and productivity.