bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of GSK3β activity alleviates acute liver failure via suppressing multiple programmed cell death
Authors: Zhang Danmei , Shi Chunxia , Zhang Qingqi , Wang Yukun , Guo Jin , Gong Zuojiong
Published: July 2023

Background

Acute liver failure (ALF) is one of the most common life-threatening diseases in adults without previous liver disease. Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that is widely distributed in the cells. Inhibition of its activity can inhibit cell death and promote autophagy through various pathways, thus providing a protective effect. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect on ALF after inhibition of GSK3β and its potential mechanisms.

Methods

D- galactosamine(D-Gal) in combination with lipopolysaccharide(LPS) was used to induce ALF in vitro and in vivo. And then GSK3β inhibitor TDZD-8 was used to explore the protective effect against ALF. After TDZD-8 treatment TUNEL staining and flow techniques were used to detect the proportion of apoptosis in liver tissues and cells respectively, while western blotting and immunofluorescence assays were performed to detect the expression levels of apoptosis, pyroptosis and necroptosis-related proteins in tissues and cells. In addition, western blotting was performed to explore the specific mechanism of hepatoprotective effect after GSK3β inhibition to detect the expression levels of TAK1, TRAF6 and HDAC3 after TRAF6 and HDAC3 inhibition alone. The co-localization of TRAF6 and HDAC3 in vitro was detected by immunofluorescence, while the interaction between TRAF6 and HDAC3 was detected by immunoprecipitation assay.

Results

Both in vivo and in vitro experiments, GSK3β inhibitor TDZD-8 can significantly alleviate the progression of ALF. Inhibition of GSK3β activity could significantly reduce the level of hepatocyte apoptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis and improve liver dysfunction and tissue damage. Furthermore, we found that hepatocyte TAK1 and TRAF6 levels decreased and HDAC3 levels increased in ALF, whereas inhibition of GSK3β upregulated TAK1 and TRAF6 levels and decreased HDAC3 expression.

Conclusion

GSK3β inhibitor TDZD-8 can prevent the progression of ALF, and its action may involve the TRAF6/HDAC3/TAK1 pathway.
Surgical outcomes of anterior lumbar interbody fusion in revision lumbar interbody fusion surgery
Authors: Shih Cheng-Min , Hsu Cheng-En , Chen Kun-Hui , Pan Chien-Chou , Lee Cheng-Hung
Published: July 2023

Backgrounds

Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) is an attractive option for revision lumbar interbody fusion as it provides wide access for implant removal and accommodation of large interbody grafts for fusion. However, revision lumbar interbody fusion surgery has not been found to result in significantly better functional outcomes compared with other approaches. To date, no prognostic factors of anterior lumbar interbody fusion in revision lumbar interbody fusion have been reported. In this study, we investigated the surgical results and possible prognostic factors of anterior lumbar interbody fusion in revision lumbar interbody fusion.

Methods

Patients who received revision interbody fusion surgery between January 2010 and May 2018 in our hospital were reviewed. Clinical outcomes were determined according to whether the VAS score improvement in back pain and leg pain reached the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) and Macnab criteria. Radiographic outcomes were assessed with fusion rate, preoperative, and postoperative lumbar lordosis. Operative-relative factors that may affect clinical outcomes, such as BMI, existence of cage migration, cage subsidence, pseudarthrosis, previous procedure, and number of fusion segments, were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 22 consecutive patients who received ALIF for revision interbody fusion surgery were included and analyzed. There were 9 men and 13 women with a mean age at operation of 56 years (26–78). The mean follow-up was 73 months (20–121). The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was reached in 11 (50%) of the patients for back pain and 14 (64%) for leg pain. According to the modified Macnab criteria, 73% of the patients in this study had successful outcomes (excellent or good). The pain and lumbar lordosis had significant improvement (P < 0.05). Preoperative fusion segment ≥ 2 was shown to be a poor prognostic factor for back pain improvement reaching MCID (P = 0.043).

Conclusions

ALIF has proven effective for revision lumbar fusion surgery, yielding positive clinical and radiographic results. However, having two or more preoperative fusion segments can negatively impact back pain improvement.

Level of evidence: IV.
The association between vaccine hesitancy and pertussis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yuning , Shi Naiyang , Wang Qiang , Yang Liuqing , Cui Tingting , Jin Hui
Published: July 2023

Background

Robust routine immunization schedules for pertussis-containing vaccines have been applied for years, but pertussis outbreaks remain a worldwide problem. This study aimed to investigate the association between vaccine hesitancy and pertussis in infants and children.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Embase, and China National Knowledge Internet for studies published between January 2012 and June 2022. This study included case–control and cohort studies that assessed the association between childhood/maternal vaccine hesitancy and odds ratios (ORs), risk ratios (RRs), and vaccine effectiveness (VE) related to pertussis in infants and children $$\le$$
≤
9 years old. ORs/VEs with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Random-effects meta-analysis models were used for appropriate pooled estimates, and heterogeneity was assessed using $${I}^{2}$$

I

2

. Cumulative meta-analysis and subgroup analyses stratified by study characteristics were performed.

Results

Twenty-two studies were included, with a mean quality score of 7.0 (range 6.0–9.0). Infants and children with pertussis were associated with higher vaccine hesitancy to all doses (OR = 4.12 [95% CI: 3.09–5.50]). The highest OR was between children who were unvaccinated over four doses and children who were fully vaccinated (OR = 14.26 [95%CI: 7.62–26.70]); childhood vaccine delay was not statistically significantly associated with pertussis risk (OR = 1.18 [95% CI: 0.74–1.89]). Maternal vaccine hesitancy was associated with significantly higher pertussis risk in infants aged 2 and 3 months old, with higher pertussis ORs in infants $$\le$$
≤
2 months old (OR = 6.02 [95%CI: 4.31–8.50], OR = 5.14 [95%CI: 1.95–13.52] for infants $$\le$$
≤
2 and $$\le$$
≤
3 months old, respectively). Maternal and childhood VEs were high in reducing pertussis infection in infants and children. The administration time of maternal vaccination had little effect on VE.

Conclusion

Vaccine hesitancy increased pertussis risks in infants and children. Ensuring that children receive up-to-date pertussis vaccines is essential; short delays in receiving childhood vaccinations may be unimportant. Maternal vaccinations for pertussis should be encouraged.
Coronary artery calcification and aortic valve calcification in patients with kidney failure: a sex-disaggregated study
Authors: Ward Liam J. , Laucyte-Cibulskiene Agne , Hernandez Leah , Ripsweden Jonaz ,   GOING-FWD Collaborators, Pilote Louise , Norris Colleen M. , Raparelli Valeria , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Herrero Maria Trinidad , Stenvinkel Peter , Kublickiene Karolina
Published: July 2023

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is linked to an increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden. Albeit underappreciated, sex differences are evident in CKD with females being more prone to CKD development, but males progressing more rapidly to kidney failure (KF). Cardiovascular remodelling is a hallmark of CKD with increased arterial and valvular calcification contributing to CKD. However, little is known regarding sex differences in calcific cardiovascular remodelling in KF patients. Thus, we hypothesise that sex differences are present in coronary artery calcification (CAC) and aortic valve calcification (AVC) in patients with KF.

Methods

KF patients, males (n = 214) and females (n = 107), that had undergone computer tomography (CT) assessment for CAC and AVC were selected from three CKD cohorts. All patients underwent non-contrast multi-detector cardiac CT scanning, with CAC and AVC scoring based on the Agatston method. Baseline biochemical measurements were retrieved from cohort databases, including plasma analyses for inflammation markers (IL-6, TNF, hsCRP) and oxidative stress by skin autofluorescence measuring advanced glycation end-products (AGE), amongst other variables.

Results

Sex-disaggregated analyses revealed that CAC score was associated with age in both males and females (both p < 0.001). Age-adjusted analyses revealed that in males CAC was associated with diabetes mellitus (DM) (p = 0.018) and CVD (p = 0.011). Additionally, for females CAC associated with IL-6 (p = 0.005) and TNF (p = 0.004). In both females and males CAC associated with AGE (p = 0.042 and p = 0.05, respectively). CAC was associated with mortality for females (p = 0.015) independent of age. AVC in females was not reviewed due to low AVC-positive samples (n = 14). In males, in multivariable regression AVC was associated with age (p < 0.001) and inflammation, as measured by IL-6 (p = 0.010).

Conclusions

In female KF patients inflammatory burden and oxidative stress were associated with CAC. Whereas in male KF patients oxidative stress and inflammation were associated with CAC and AVC, respectively. Our findings suggest a sex-specific biomarker signature for cardiovascular calcification that may affect the development of cardiovascular complications in males and females with KF.
New-onset and relapsed Graves’ disease following COVID-19 vaccination: a comprehensive review of reported cases
Authors: Chen Kan , Gao Yiyang , Li Jing
Published: July 2023

Global Coronavir us disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination efforts are being intensified to combat the pandemic. As the frequency of immunization against COVID-19 has increased, some adverse effects related to vaccination have emerged. Within this context, this article reviewed 62 Graves’ disease (GD) cases following COVID-19 vaccination, to probe the potential association between the vaccination and the onset of GD. A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases was conducted to collect GD cases following COVID-19 vaccination up to June 7, 2023. Among the 62 GD cases included in this review, there were 33 (53.2%) new-onset GD and 10 (16.1%) relapsed GD patients following mRNA vaccination, 14 (22.6%) new-onset GD and 4 (6.5%) relapsed GD patients following viral vector vaccination, and 1 (1.6%) relapsed GD patients following inactivated vaccination. Median durations to symptoms onset for new-onset and relapsed GD were 12 (range: 1–60) and 21 (range: 5–30) days following mRNA vaccination, while 7 (range: 1–28) and 14 (range: 10–14) days following viral vector vaccination, respectively. While the definitive pathogenesis of GD following COVID-19 vaccination remains unclear, it might be associated with cross-immune responses triggered by molecular mimicry, and an adjuvant-induced autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome. However, due to the limited number of observed GD cases following COVID-19 vaccination and the lack of systematic experimental studies, a causal relationship between COVID-19 vaccination and the onset of GD has not been definitively confirmed. It should be highlighted that most of GD patients following COVID-19 vaccination experienced positive outcomes after treatment. In the broader context of ending the COVID-19 pandemic and reducing mortality rates, the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination significantly outweigh mild risks such as treatable GD. Adherence to the COVID-19 vaccination schedule is therefore imperative in effectively managing the pandemic.
Anesthetic management of a pediatric patient with Freeman-Sheldon syndrome undergoing atrial septal defect closure: a case report
Authors: Takahashi Kyosuke , Sakurai Kotaro , Hamaya Izumi
Published: July 2023

Background

Freeman-Sheldon syndrome (FSS) is a rare disorder characterized by specific deformities of the extremities and face. There have been no reports of open-heart surgery in pediatric patients with FSS.

Case presentation

We present the case of an 8-year-old girl with FSS who underwent atrial septal defect closure. Tracheal intubation was uncomplicated, although the patient had microstomia. Inhalational anesthetics and dopamine antagonists were avoided intraoperatively and perioperatively. We chose dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant for postoperative pain management contributing to adequate analgesia and early extubation without causing respiratory depression.

Conclusions

Anesthetic management of FSS requires consideration for airway management and prevention of malignant hyperthermia and respiratory complications. We successfully managed the case avoiding the use of malignant hyperthermia-triggering drugs.
The combined association of dietary inflammatory index and resting metabolic rate on cardiorespiratory fitness in adults
Authors: Shahinfar Hossein , Payandeh Nastaran , Torabynasab Kimia , Shahavandi Mahshid , Mohammadpour Saba , Babaei Nadia , Ebaditabar Mojdeh , Djafarian Kurosh , Shab-Bidar Sakineh
Published: July 2023

Background

No study has examined the combined association of dietary inflammatory index (DII) of the diet and resting metabolic rate (RMR) on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). Therefore, we investigated the combined association between DII and RMR on CRF.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 270 adult subjects. The DII was calculated using a validated semi-quantified food frequency questionnaire. RMR was measured using an indirect calorimetric method. Socioeconomic status, anthropometric measures, body composition and blood pressure were documented by a trained interviewer. CRF was assessed by using Bruce protocol. Binary logistic regression was performed to find the association of CRF with DII/RMR categories in various models.

Results

The participants categorized into four groups including: (1) low DII/high RMR, (2) low DII/low RMR, (3) high DII/low RMR, (4) high DII/high RMR. The mean of VO2Max (mL/kg/min), VO2max (L/min) and VO2max relative to lean body mass (LBM) was lower in participants that were classified as high DII/low RMR compared to those in low DII/high RMR. After controlling for age, sex, education status, smoking status, and physical activity those who were in the high DII/low RMR group, compared to the low DII/high RMR group were 28% less likely to have higher VO2max (ml/kg/min) (OR 0.72; 95% CI 0.18, 0.82, p = 0.04). Moreover, had 25% lower odds of VO2max (L/min) which was significant (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.11, 0.89, p = 0.03). In addition, were 21% less likely to have higher VO2max (LBM) (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.30, 0.92, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Overall, consumption of a pro-inflammatory diet in combination with low RMR status is associated with lower odds of CRF compared to those who had anti-inflammatory diet in combination with high RMR status among Iranian healthy adults. This study suggests that researchers should focus on combined relationships rather than single pair-wise associations for having a better judgment.
The role of focus back effort in the relationships among motivation, interest, and mind wandering: an individual difference perspective
Authors: He Hong , Chen Yunyun , Li Ting , Li Hui , Zhang Xuemin
Published: July 2023

Considerable research suggests a link between mind wandering and diminished levels of motivation and interest. During episodes of mind wandering, individuals may engage in efforts to redirect their attention back to the task at hand (known as focus back effort). Building on the resource-control hypothesis, we hypothesized that the influence of interest and motivation on mind wandering may be mediated by focus back effort. In Study 1, we employed a latent-variable approach to investigate these relationships across three tasks with varying cognitive demands. The results showed that individual differences in interest indirectly influenced mind wandering through the mediating factors of motivation and focus back effort. Furthermore, individual differences in interest indirectly predicted task performance through the mediating factors of motivation, focus back effort, and mind wandering during the high-load task. In Study 2, we replicated the relationships among these factors in a reading comprehension task. The results consistently support the role of focus back effort as an adaptive mechanism for executive control, enabling the allocation of cognitive resources to both mind wandering and task performance. These findings underscore the significance of focus back effort in elucidating the interplay between mind wandering, motivation, interest, and task performance. Importantly, our results align with the resource-control theory.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with recurrent status epilepticus episodes
Authors: Bauer Kristina , Rosenow Felix , Knake Susanne , Willems Laurent M. , Kämppi Leena , Strzelczyk Adam
Published: July 2023

Background

Multiple studies have focused on medical and pharmacological treatments and outcome predictors of patients with status epilepticus (SE). However, a sufficient understanding of recurrent episodes of SE is lacking. Therefore, we reviewed recurrent SE episodes to investigate their clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients with relapses.

Methods

In this retrospective, multicenter study, we reviewed recurrent SE patient data covering 2011 to 2017 from the university hospitals of Frankfurt and Marburg, Germany. Clinical characteristics and outcome variables were compared among the first and subsequent SE episodes using a standardized form for data collection.

Results

We identified 120 recurrent SE episodes in 80 patients (10.2% of all 1177 episodes). The mean age at the first SE episode was 62.2 years (median 66.5; SD 19.3; range 21–91), and 42 of these patients were male (52.5%). A mean of 262.4 days passed between the first and the second episode. Tonic–clonic seizure semiology and a cerebrovascular disease etiology were predominant in initial and recurrent episodes. After subsequent episodes, patients showed increased disability as indicated by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and 9 out of 80 patients died during the second episode (11.3%). Increases in refractory and super-refractory SE (RSE and SRSE, respectively) were noted during the second episode, and the occurrence of a non-refractory SE (NRSE) during the first SE episode did not necessarily provide a protective marker for subsequent non-refractory episodes. An increase in the use of intravenous-available anti-seizure medication (ASM) was observed in the treatment of SE patients. Patients were discharged from hospital with a mean of 2.8 ± 1.0 ASMs after the second SE episode and 2.1 ± 1.2 ASMs after the first episode. Levetiracetam was the most common ASM used before admission and on discharge for SE patients.

Conclusions

This retrospective, multicenter study used the mRS to demonstrate worsened outcomes of patients at consecutive SE episodes. ASM accumulations after subsequent SE episodes were registered over the study period. The study results underline the necessity for improved clinical follow-ups and outpatient care to reduce the health care burden from recurrent SE episodes.
Evaluation of the relationship between clinical and laboratory risk factors in atherosclerosis patients with coronary slow flow: a case–control analysis
Authors: Faramarzzadeh Reza , Fekrat Farin , Haghtalab Arian
Published: July 2023

Background

Coronary slow flow (CSF) is an angiographic entity distinguished by the delayed filling of the epicardial coronary arteries in the lack of significant obstructive artery disease. The pathological causes are still unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between clinical and laboratory-related risk factors in atherosclerosis patients diagnosed with CSF.

Results

The research encompassed a study group of 142 individuals, with a mean age of 52.47 ± 10.62, and a male representation of 47.7%. A thorough statistical analysis was conducted, indicating that there were no noteworthy variations in age, gender, smoking history, hematocrit, blood sugar, and HDL levels between the groups of cases and controls (P > 0.05). Subsequent analysis of the data indicated that there were significant differences in history of hypertension, LDL, and BMI measurements between the groups of subjects who were designated as cases and those who were designated as controls. Our study revealed that male gender, a history of hypertension, and BMI were identified as independent predictors of CSF (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

After modeling regression, we were able to conclude that male gender, BMI, and history of hypertension are reliable predictors of slow coronary flow. These findings add to our growing understanding of the complex interplay between clinical and laboratory risk factors in the development and progression of CSF.
Unusual pattern of leptomeningeal cyst with herniation of porencephalic cyst
Authors: Arora Suryansh , Vani Kavita
Published: July 2023

Background

Growing skull fracture or leptomeningeal cyst is an uncommon occurrence after severe head trauma in childhood. It is mostly observed in infants and children less than 3 years of age. Another uncommon complication of head trauma is development of porencephalic cyst.

Case presentation

We present an unusual case of post-traumatic type III leptomeningeal cyst in a 9-month-old infant with history of head trauma 3 months ago. CT and MR imaging revealed widening of bony defect compared to previous imaging, and herniation of porencephalic cyst through the defect, leading to formation of a large cystic swelling in scalp. The 3 month delay in evaluation of the scalp swelling was due to lack of patient education after trauma, and no subsequent follow-up.

Conclusions

Knowledge about etiopathogenesis and risk factors of leptomeningeal cyst development after head trauma ensures that close follow-up is done in such cases for early detection and management of growing skull fracture.
A rare cause of dysphagia due to retropharyngeal foregut duplication cyst: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Confuorto Gennaro , D’ Alessio Pasquale , Antonini Pietro , Molteni Gabriele
Published: July 2023

Background

The retropharyngeal space is a deep compartment of the head and neck region which extends from the base of the skull to the mediastinum, between the posterior pharyngeal wall and vertebral muscles, delimited laterally by carotid sheaths. Pathological processes of the retropharyngeal space are rarely encountered, generally are isolated and painless masses often cystic, and they usually originate from branchial arch anomalies, but only in rare cases, they turn out to be foregut duplication cysts. Foregut duplication cyst is rare congenital malformations arising along primitively derived alimentary tract during the first trimester in the developing embryo, mostly seen in the thorax and abdomen, with just few cases reported in the head and neck region. We report an extremely rare case of a foregut duplication cyst lined with respiratory epithelium located in the retropharyngeal space, at the level of the oropharynx, of an adult patient with dysphagia surgically treated, and we also made an analysis of the published literature about this very uncommon condition.

Case presentation

A 63-year-old male patient with chronic dysphagia was diagnosed with a retropharyngeal cystic lesion, which was surgically treated. Final pathologic evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of a rare foregut duplication cyst lined with respiratory epithelium. A review of the pertaining published literature about the head and neck foregut duplication cysts was made, with a particular emphasis on retropharyngeal ones.

Conclusions

Retropharyngeal foregut duplication cysts are a very rare congenital cyst of the head and neck. Clinical symptoms such as dysphagia and dyspnea should be evaluated with fibrolaryngoscopy, and CT and MRI scans are of great significance for definitive diagnosis, which should include the possibility of a foregut duplication cyst in the differential diagnosis. Surgical excision is the elective treatment for this lesion, in order to prevent complications including infection and compression symptoms or eventually malignant transformation.
Development of nanocarriers for the encapsulation of cannabinoids and other bioactive compounds
Authors: Δεμισλή Σωτηρία
Published: July 2023

Βασικός στόχος της παρούσας διατριβής ήταν η ανάπτυξη βιοσυμβατών νανοδιασπορών ως φορέων χορήγησης λιπόφιλων βιοδραστικών ενώσεων. Συγκεκριμένα αναπτύχθηκαν νανογαλακτώματα ελαίου-σε-νερό και υδρογέλες με ενσωματωμένο νανογαλάκτωμα με στόχο την αποτελεσματική χορήγηση των ενθυλακωμένων ουσιών με φαρμακολογικό ενδιαφέρον. Αρχικά, διευκρινίστηκε η δομή των συστημάτων που αναπτύχθηκαν ώστε να εντοπιστούν πιθανές διαφορές μεταξύ τους και να προσδιοριστεί η θέση των βιοδραστικών ουσιών. Βασική ήταν επίσης η μελέτη της δομής των νανογαλακτωμάτων μετά την ενσωμάτωσή τους στην υδρογέλη. Για τον δομικό χαρακτηρισμό χρησιμοποιήθηκαν Δυναμική Σκέδαση Φωτός (DLS), Φασματοσκοπία Ηλεκτρονικού Παραμαγνητικού Συντονισμού (EPR), Συνεστιακή Μικροσκοπία Φθορισμού (CFM), Κρυογονική Ηλεκτρονική Μικροσκοπία (Cryo-EM) και Σκέδαση Ακτίνων Χ σε μικρές γωνίες (SAXS). Η έρευνα διεξήχθη και για τα δύο συστήματα απουσία και παρουσία βιοδραστικών ενώσεων. Η δομική μελέτη των νανογαλακτωμάτων αποκάλυψε ότι η δομή των ενθυλακωμένων ουσιών επηρέαζε τον προσανατολισμό τους μέσα στα νανοσταγονίδια, είχε επίδραση στο μέγεθος των νανοσταγονιδίων και στη μονοστιβάδα των επιφανειοενεργών. Ωστόσο, δεν παρατηρήθηκαν σημαντικές αλλαγές στη δομή του νανογαλακτώματος μετά την ενσωμάτωσή του στην υδρογέλη.Για την αξιολόγηση της καταλληλότητας των προτεινόμενων νανοδιασπορών να δρουν ως φορείς για τη χορήγηση βιοδραστικών ουσιών, εφαρμόστηκαν διαφορετικές μέθοδοι in vitro για τη βιολογική τους αποτίμηση. Η κυτταροτοξικότητα και των δύο νανοφορέων απουσία και παρουσία των ενθυλακωμένων μορίων αξιολογήθηκε μέσω μελέτης αναστολής της κυτταρικής βιωσιμότητας με χρήση των κυτταρικών σειρών RPMI 2650 και WS1 ως μοντέλα του ανθρώπινου ρινικού και δερματικού επιθηλίου αντίστοιχα. Μέσω πειραμάτων in vitro μελετήθηκε η διαπερατότητα της βιοδραστικής στο δέρμα με χρήση της κυψελίδων διάχυσης Franz και με την τεχνική tape stripping. Βρέθηκε ότι οι υδρογέλες γεμάτες με νανογαλάκτωμα θα μπορούσαν να είναι πιο αποτελεσματικές για την χορήγηση βιοδραστικών μέσω του δέρματος, καθώς τους παρείχε αυξημένη διαπερατότητα και βελτιωμένα προφίλ απελευθέρωσης σε σύγκριση με τα νανογαλακτώματα. Συνεπώς, οι προτεινόμενες νανοδιασπορές είναι κατάλληλες για την αποτελεσματική χορήγηση διάφορων ουσιών μέσω του δέρματος παρέχοντας αυξημένη αποτελεσματικότητα καθώς και δυνατότητα εναλλακτικών οδών χορήγησης.
Advertising as Information for Ranking E-Commerce Search Listings
Authors: Yang Joonhyuk , Sahni Navdeep S. , Nair Harikesh S. , Xiong Xi
Published: July 2023

This paper evaluates the role of advertising as information in designing platform search engines.
Legionnaires' disease complicated with rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury
Authors: See Xin Ya , Ahmed Omer , Nand Nikita , Quwatli Waleed
Published: July 2023

Legionnaire's disease can cause rare and severe complications such as rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury. This case report details a 45-year-old male patient who presented with features of Legionnaire's disease. Laboratory results showed a significantly elevated serum creatinine kinase level and an increased creatinine level. Imaging showed right lower lobe consolidation, and a positive urine antigen test confirmed Legionnaire's disease. The patient was administered azithromycin and underwent fluid repletion to manage the rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury, resulting in improved creatinine kinase levels and kidney function. He was discharged and continued on azithromycin for 10 days. His outpatient follow-up showed that creatinine kinase levels had further decreased. This case report emphasises the importance of early recognition and management of Legionnaire's disease and its rare but severe complications.
Statins and risk
Authors: Winter George
Published: July 2023

George Winter considers the nature of risk and how statistics might be used to gain the trust of some, while losing the trust of others
Dead-Time Effect and Compensation Technology for an Isolated Dual Active Bridge Converter
Authors: Xie Xifeng , Luo Deng , Wang Jiangwei , Wu Xuesong , Chen Tao
Published: July 2023

Aiming at deficiencies of output voltage distortion and circulating current generation caused by dead-time effect in the modulation process, a simple and feasible dead time compensation strategy is presented. Firstly, the influence of dead-time effect on the output voltage of bridge is analysed, and a dead time compensation strategy is added between the modulation signal and dead time procession. According to the current direction of the bridge, the rising edge or falling edge of the driving signal is selectively delayed to compensate for dead-time effect. Secondly, an Optimized Triple Phase-shift (OTPS) modulation strategy is adopted with minimizing leakage inductor current Root-Mean-Square (RMS) control, which minimizes current stress, achieves soft-switching operation, avoids phase-shift errors caused by Dead-Time Effect, and optimizes control performance of DC-DC converters. Finally, simulated and experimental results are added to verify the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Enhancement of Weighting Coefficient Selection using Grey Relational Analysis for Model Predictive Torque Control of PMSM Drive: Analysis and Experiments
Authors: Vujji Avinash , Dahiya Ratna
Published: July 2023

Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) with model predictive torque control (MPTC) is popular for its simplified control structure and adaptable in incorporating control parameters into the control algorithm. However, in control technique the primary concern for objective function (OF) depends on the selection of appropriate weighting coefficient (WC). Basically, for weighting coefficient selection, empirical methods are used but it takes additional time and heuristic process. In this paper, Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) technique is introduced in optimization of objective function for selection of appropriate weighting coefficient. In this methodology, stator flux and torque having individual OF are modified from single-OF. This ensures that in each sampling period, selection of grey relational optimal control action is dependent on the preference given to the control parameters in OF. For each sampling, a Grey Relational Grade (GRG) is employed to determine the appropriate control action. The models for two-level inverter fed PMSM are developed in MATLAB/Simulink to test the various operations of PMSM drive and the results are validated on the experimental test bench using dSPACE-1104 R&D controller. In order to highlight the effectiveness of the proposed technique, the results are compared with DTFC and MPTC approach.
Nodal Electricity Price Forecasting using Exponential Smoothing and Holt’s Exponential Smoothing
Authors: Ahmed Md Irfan , Kumar Ramesh
Published: July 2023

The prediction of nodal electricity price (NEP) is a primary step to be done before the bidding process starts in the actual market environment. NEP plays a significant role for the efficient working of the electrical system. NEP follows a common trend as during peak hours when the load is high the price will also be high similarly during off-peak-load times the price will be lower and common to all the node. Thus, accurate forecasting of the NEP can help electricity generation companies to be more proactive in the wholesale electricity market to maximize its overall benefits. In this paper, exponential smoothing (ES), and holt’s exponential smoothing (HES) have been utilized for forecasting the NEP. Furthermore, a comparative analysis between ES and HES has been done considering several alpha values and several trends. The model evaluation and the forecasting performance have been tested using different parameters of ES, and HES techniques such as Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Akaike Information Criterion Corrected (AICc), Bayesian Information Criteria (BIC). The performance of the proposed technique has been authenticated efficaciously on average nodal real-time price data collected from ISO New England (BOSTON Zone).
Leveraging existing provider networks in Europe to eliminate barriers to accessing opioid agonist maintenance therapies for Ukrainian refugees
Authors: Nikitin Benjamin M. , Bromberg Daniel J. , Madden Lynn M. , Stöver Heino , Teltzrow Robert , Altice Frederick L.
Published: July 2023

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine caused a major refugee crisis, particularly impacting Central and Eastern Europe. Ukraine has one of the highest prevalence rates of opioid use disorder (OUD) in Europe, which increases the risk of HIV spread due to injection drug use. Opioid agonist maintenance therapies (OAMT) are a gold standard treatment for OUD and the prevention of HIV spread. Refugees who were displaced and previously maintained on OAMT in Ukraine require reliable care continuity, but OAMT is often highly regulated making it difficult to access. Using an implementation science lens, we sought to understand the barriers and facilitators that might impede OAMT continuity. We performed 23 semi-structured interviews with displaced patients with OUD and providers of OAMT and harm reduction. Interview participants were purposively sampled to include individuals from the highest-impacted countries: Poland, Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Romania, and Hungary. Interviews focused on existing provider networks and barriers that refugees on OAMT faced during displacement. Though networks existed, there was little collaboration between providers and key stakeholders, such as NGOs, in overcoming barriers. Moreover, existing formal networks were not leveraged for rapid problem-solving. We found that despite existing networks, providers encountered substantial barriers to successfully coordinating access and retention in OAMT for refugees. Owing to insufficiently leveraged coordination between providers, clinics frequently turned patients away due to insufficient capacity, language barriers, and financial coverage issues. The limited geographic distribution of clinics in larger countries, such as Poland and Germany, further inhibited refugees from accessing and remaining on treatment. To support countries and providers in responding to a rapidly evolving crisis, collaborative learning combined with rapid cycle change projects used by the Network for the Improvement of Addiction Treatment (NIATx) model could be deployed to promote collaboration between providers both nationally and throughout the European Union to guide continuity of OAMT.
Interaction and integration among behaviors of adult Drosophila in nature
Authors: Silva-López Jeannette , Godoy Pablo , Jara Lilian , Godoy-Herrera Raúl
Published: July 2023

Living in environments whose ecologies vary in periods as short as 24 h is a challenge for animals as Drosophila species that inhabit pear and apple orchards. These orchards have sunny and shady sections. The size and shape of these habitats change daily according to the position of the sun in the sky. Sunny areas are related to dryness and water loss, and shady places have lower temperatures and higher humidity. The presence of heterospecific flies may lead to competition for space and food. In sunny habitats we did not find adult Drosophila. In shady sections we found conspecific groups D. melanogaster, D. simulans, D. immigrans, D. subobscura, and the Chilean endemic D. pavani perched on grasses and herbs at 8–10 cm from fruits that had fallen on the ground. In the fruits, 99% of the adults were females and they were not grouped. The way in which daily changes in the size and shape of shady habitats together with the presence of heterospecific adults influence the selection of places to live is poorly understood in Drosophila. Our experiments show that adults of the five species prefer dark areas. The experimental results show that the odors of each species: i) influence conspecifics to select similar perch sites and decrease mobility, and ii) increase mobility in heterospecific adults and modify their perch site preferences. Attractions between conspecifics, the repulsions between species, and preferences for shaded areas matter in choosing a place to live in the five Drosophila species. These behaviors seem to have evolved as coordinated routines, contributing to the coexistence of the five Drosophila species in the apple and pear orchards examined.
The relationship between the ethical attitudes and holistic competence levels of intensive care nurses: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Taşkıran Nihal , Turk Gulengun
Published: July 2023

Background

Intensive care units are directly associated with the competency level of nurses and are units where ethical problems are frequently experienced. This research aims to determine the relationship between intensive care nurses’ ethical attitudes and holistic competence levels.

Methods

This study was conducted as a cross-sectional design using self-report questionnaires distributed to 131 intensive care nurses in Turkey. The data of the study were collected with the “Nurses Information Form,” “Holistic Nursing Competence Scale” and “Ethical Attitude Scale for Nursing Care”.

Results

The total mean score of the Holistic Nursing Competence of the nurses was 6.89±0.95. Holistic Nursing Competence level was significantly lower for those who had experienced less than one year in the profession, and it was higher for those who worked in the emergency intensive care unit and the nurses whose clinics had 21 and above nurses. The total mean score of the nurses’ ethics attitude toward nursing care was 59.36±29.09. Ethical Attitude for Nursing Care was significantly lower for those who had a master’s degree, and the nurses whose clinics had 21 and above nurses scored higher. There was a weak and negative correlation between the nurses’ Holistic Nursing Competence Scale and the total mean score of the Ethical Attitude Scale for Nursing Care. The ethical attitude was predicted in 13.2% of the Holistic Nursing Competence of nurses.

Conclusions

It was concluded that nurses’ holistic competence levels were high, their ethical attitudes were negative, and there was a weak negative correlation between their holistic competence levels and their ethical attitudes toward care.
Awareness of and receptivity to FDA’s point-of-sale tobacco public education campaign
Authors: Dutra Lauren M. , Farrelly Matthew C. , Bradfield Brian , Mekos Debra , Jones Chaunetta , Alexander Tesfa
Published: July 2023

The purpose of the study was to assess awareness of and receptivity to FDA’s point-of-sale (POS) tobacco public education campaign for adult cigarette smokers called Every Try Counts; it was the first multi-county POS campaign in the U.S. The design was a county-level treatment-control three-wave longitudinal design. The setting was 15 treatment and 15 control counties. Subjects were smokers ages 25 to 54 (N = 3,628). 4,145 individuals screened in as eligible; 3,628 (87.5% response rate) completed the Wave 1 questionnaire (Wave 2: n = 2,812; Wave 3: n = 2,571; retention 70.9%). Measures were self-reported brand and ad awareness (saw any ad a few times or more) and receptivity (5-item perceived effectiveness scale). The analysis included descriptive analyses of receptivity; bivariate analyses of awareness by treatment group; and covariate- and time-adjusted logistic regression models to determine changes in awareness attributable to the campaign. Receptivity was moderate and differed significantly by race/ethnicity. As was the case for all waves, at wave 3, ad awareness was significantly higher in treatment (53.3%) than control counties (36.1%, p < .05). In regression models, brand (OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.26–1.86) and ad (OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.39–2.16) awareness were significantly higher in treatment than control counties. Every Try Counts generated a moderate level of receptivity and attention from cigarette smokers. Limitations include self-reports of campaign awareness and generalizability to a small number of U.S. counties.
Effects of electroacupuncture therapy on intractable facial paralysis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Yihao , Dong Xu , Xing Yating , Wang Ruoyu , Yang Siyu , Han Yixiao , Wang Dongyan
Published: July 2023

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assessment effects of electroacupuncture (EA) therapy on intractable facial paralysis.

Methods

The articles of EA treatment for intractable facial paralysis were retrieved from seven databases, the publication period was from its inception to November 30, 2022. Primary measure was the total effective rate, and other measures included the cure rate, Portmann scores, House-Brackmann scores, Sunnybrook scores and adverse events. The effect size of meta-analysis was expressed using relative risk (RR) or standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

A total of 18 studies with 1,119 participants were included, all of them had various aspects of bias risk. Meta-analysis results revealed that EA ways improved total effective rate more effectively compared with non-EA counterparts (RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.17–1.31,I2= 0%, 18 studies, 1119 participants), and improved cure rate more significantly than non-EA groups (RR 2.04, 95% CI 1.70–2.44,I2= 0%, 18 studies, 1119 participants). None of studies reported adverse events.

Conclusion

EA therapy is more beneficial for patients with intractable facial paralysis than non-EA, but we lack sufficient evidence to evaluate its safety and follow-up effect. Therefore, more clinical trials with high quality methodologies are needed to further verify long-term effects of EA for IFP and improve the level of evidence.

Trial registration

Registration number:CRD42021278541.
Knowledge exchange in the implementation of National Environmental Programmes (NEPs) in China: A complex picture
Authors: Kong Zheng-Hong , Stringer Lindsay C. , Paavola Jouni
Published: July 2023

Knowledge is an intrinsic element of environmental management. Understanding what kinds of knowledge are needed and how to communicate them effectively is crucial for building environmental management capacity. Despite extensive research, knowledge and its exchange are commonly considered from the viewpoint of its creators and disseminators, rather than that of its recipients. This can lead to mismatches between supply of and demand for knowledge, and futile knowledge exchange that undermines the effectiveness of interventions. Research is needed that looks carefully at the contexts and consequences of such scenarios. Addressing this gap, we examine the implementation of National Environmental Programs (NEPs) in north-western China, drawing from interviews and questionnaires with scientists, grassroots implementers, and farmers and herders, to identify what and how knowledge has been exchanged and what their perspectives are about knowledge exchange with other actors. We ascertain the positive impacts of knowledge exchange during NEP implementation, as well as the consequences when it is lacking, by analysing the interfaces and interactions between actors, seeking explanation for successes and failures. We conclude that with changing socio-ecological systems, knowledge and its exchange also need to change accordingly, extending beyond the environmental domain to integrate local socioeconomic concerns. Such efforts are necessary to improve environmental management outcomes and advance sustainable development.
DRUG INDUCED ACUTE PANCREATITIS: AN EVIDENCE BASED CLASSIFICATION (REVISED)
Authors: Saini Jasmine , Marino Daniel , Badalov Nison , Vugelman Melanie , Tenner Scott
Published: July 2023

We previously published an “Evidence Based Classification System” on Drug-Induced Acute Pancreatitis widely used by clinicians. Unfortunately, this prior analysis based only on published case reports has been misunderstood. The prior review did not include studies with higher evidentiary value, such as randomized trials, case control studies and/or pharmacoepidemiologic studies. Despite the extensive list of drugs included in our prior classification and review, which defined classes by the case reports showing rechallenges and latency, the value to clinicians and applicability to patients with unexplained acute pancreatitis is profoundly limited. The use of the prior classification system has led to many patients inappropriately labeled as having a drug-induced acute pancreatitis. We now propose a “Revised” Evidence Based Classification System for the purpose of determining which drugs cause acute pancreatitis based on the GRADE Criteria.
No submundo do terror e da conspiração no Telegram
Authors: Fernandes Rodrigues Marcos Alexandre
Published: July 2023

No cenário nacional, tem-se muito discutido sobre a organização neonazista “Dogolachan” que, como se noticia, está vinculada a três massacres escolares, além da morte de alvos humanos específicos. A esse respeito, o objetivo é analisar, dialogicamente, a construção estilística de enunciados recortados do grupo da organização “Dogolachan” no Telegram, com a intenção de verificar as posições ideológicas expressas. A fundamentação teórica tem como aporte as obras de Volóchinov (2018, 2019a, 2019b, 2019c), de modo a subsidiar reflexões sobre estilo discursivo. Na tentativa de robustecer isso, põe-se em interlocução Bakhtin (2011a, 2011b, 2015, 2018a, 2018b) e Medviédev (2016). No que engloba à metodologia, escolhem-se estes procedimentos: 1) identificação e seleção da organização; 2) observação e registro das interações discursivas; 3) esboço de questões de pesquisa; 4) análise dialógica dos enunciados; e 5) escrita e apresentação dos resultados. São mobilizados 9 enunciados a partir destes critérios: a) publicado no canal oficial da organização; b) produzido entre os anos de 2021 e 2022; c) expresso por diferentes integrantes-locutores. Nesse contexto, os resultados permitem compreender que os membros-locutores da organização “Dogolachan” inferiorizam o peso sócio-hierárquico de seus alvos humanos ao desumanizá-los por meio da misoginia, do racismo e do capacitismo recreativos. É de se espantar que, além disso, os “dogoleiros” possuam como fito o assassinato de professores e funcionários de escolas, políticos e Ministros do STF, já que o terror social é uma nova solução final.
O intolerável da educação e a manutenção das desigualdades no discurso educacional brasileiro
Authors: De Sousa Santos Bruna Maria
Published: July 2023

O artigo propõe investigar o funcionamento do autoritarismo no discurso educacional brasileiro, mais particularmente naquilo que concerne ao trabalho empreendido em prol do silenciamento das desigualdades e à sua consequente manutenção. Para tanto, tomaremos como materialidades analíticas duas propagandas do Ministério da Educação, cujas temáticas fazem referência ao Novo Ensino Médio: a primeira delas veiculada em 2017, durante o governo de Michel Temer, e a segunda em 2021, já durante o governo de Jair Bolsonaro. Filiadas aos Estudos Discursivos Foucaultianos, as análises buscam cartografar o poder regulador do autoritarismo no interior de uma ordem do discurso que apaga o cenário desigual do país, visibilizando o funcionamento de uma rede discursiva antidemocrática que se estrutura não pelo reconhecimento e pelo enfrentamento da realidade, mas por sua invenção (SCHWARCZ, 2019). O intuito será o de demonstrar que essa “invenção da realidade” relega à educação um papel mercadológico e despolitizado, uma vez que seu potencial democrático constitui, para a lógica autoritária, um mal intolerável cujos avanços devem ser refreados.