bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of sepsis-associated acute kidney injury in critically ill patients: a multicenter, prospective, observational cohort study in South Korea
Authors: Song Myung Jin , Jang Yeonhoon , Legrand Matthieu , Park Sunghoon , Ko RyoungEun , Suh Gee Young , Oh Dong Kyu , Lee Su Yeon , Park Mi Hyeon , Lim Chae-Man , Jung Se Young , Lim Sung Yoon ,   The Korean Sepsis Alliance (KSA) investigator
Published: November 2024

Background

Despite the clinical importance of sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI), little is known about its epidemiology. We aimed to investigate the incidence and outcomes of SA-AKI, as well as the risk factors for mortality among patients with severe SA-AKI in critically ill patients.

Methods

This secondary multicenter, observational, prospective cohort analysis of sepsis in South Korea evaluated patients aged ≥ 19 years admitted to intensive care units with a diagnosis of sepsis. The primary outcome was the incidence of SA-AKI, defined using the new consensus definition of the Acute Disease Quality Initiative 28 Workgroup. Secondary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and risk factors for in-hospital mortality.

Results

Between September 2019 and December 2022, 5100 patients were admitted to intensive care units with a diagnosis of sepsis, and 3177 (62.3%) developed SA-AKI. A total of 613 (19.3%), 721 (22.7%), and 1843 (58.0%) patients had stage 1, 2, and 3 SA-AKI, respectively. Severe SA-AKI (stages 2 and 3 combined) was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality. Adherence to the fluid resuscitation component of the one-hour sepsis bundle was associated with a decreased risk of in-hospital mortality in severe SA-AKI (adjusted odds ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.48–0.79; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Of the patients admitted to the intensive care unit for sepsis, 62.3% developed SA-AKI. Severe SA-AKI was associated with an increased risk of mortality. Adherence to the fluid resuscitation component of the one-hour sepsis bundle can potentially improve outcomes in these patients.
Neoliberalism in academia: reflections from a parasitologist
Authors: Gasser Robin B.
Published: November 2024

This article examines the major transformation within the higher education sector, specifically the shift from traditional academia to neoliberal academia, with an emphasis on its impact on academics who entered the field in the 2000s. Many of these individuals may not fully recognise the extensive political and structural changes driven by neoliberalism over the past 2 decades. Published literature shows how the widespread adoption of managerialism in a neoliberal context—particularly in the Anglo-Saxon world—has markedly altered the academic landscape. This shift has led to the marketisation of education, characterised by increased student tuition fees, performance metrics and a change in academic values, including professional autonomy and academic freedom. The present article further explores how these alterations have affected the wellbeing of academics, particularly early- and mid-career scholars, by institutions prioritising economic efficiency over intellectual enquiry, increasing administrative workloads and promoting a consumerist model of education. Drawing on both evidence from the peer-reviewed literature and experiences, the implications of these changes for academic careers, job satisfaction and the broader mission of universities as centres of scholarship and public service are discussed. The article concludes with a call to action for academic leaders and policymakers to recognise and address challenges posed by neoliberalism and managerialism, emphasising the need to support and protect the core values of academia in the face of ongoing changes.

Graphical Abstract
Rapid and supersensitive allele detection of Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance via a Pyrococcus furiosus argonaute-triggered dual-signal biosensing platform
Authors: Chen Liying , Chen Wencheng , Wei Huagui , Lin Wenai , Zhang Cheng , Hu Hongfei , Wang Chunfang , Chen Jiangtao , Liang Xueyan , Zhu Daiqian , Wang Junli , Lin Zongyun , Wei Yuxia , Li Jian , Lin Min
Published: November 2024

Background

Malaria remains a serious public health problem worldwide, particularly in Africa. Resistance to antimalarial drugs is an essential issue for malaria control and elimination. Currently, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) combined with Sanger sequencing is regarded as the gold standard for mutation detection. However, this method fails to meet the requirements of point-of-care testing (POCT) because of its time-consuming, expensive instruments and professional dependence. To support this strategy, we developed a novel diagnostic platform that combines recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) with the Pyrococcus furiosus argonaute (PfAgo) protein and was designed to detect gene mutations related to antimalarial drug resistance. The Pfcrt haplotypes CVMNK and CVIET of chloroquine resistance (CQR) were used as examples and were assessed in this study.

Methods

By meticulously designing strategies, RPA primers, guide DNAs, and probes were screened, the reaction was optimized, and the resulting parameters were employed to ascertain the genotype of Pfcrt. The recombinant plasmids pUC57/Pfcrt-CVIET and pUC57/Pfcrt-CVMNK were constructed and diluted for sensitivity detection. The pUC57/Pfcrt-CVIET plasmid mixture was added to the pUC57/Pfcrt-CVMNK plasmid mixture in different additions to configure several specific proportions of mixed plasmid mixtures. The RPA-PfAgo platform was used, and the mixed plasmid was detected simultaneously via nest-PCR (nPCR) and Sanger sequencing. The platform was then evaluated on 85 clinical samples and compared with Sanger sequencing.

Results

The entire process achieves the key mutation Pfcrt-CVMNK/CVIET genotype identification of CQR within 90 min. The platform achieved 1.8 × 104 copies/μL sensitivity and could detect as little as 3% CVIET in mixed plasmids, which is a higher sensitivity than that of Sanger sequencing (5%). Notably, the platform shows 100% concordance with the gold standard method when 85 clinical samples are tested. The sensitivity and specificity were 100% for the 85 clinical samples.

Conclusions

This study established an RPA-PfAgo platform for genotyping the key mutation Pfcrt-CVMNK/CVIET of CQR. This method can rapidly produce reliable results and avoid the disadvantages of nPCR with sequencing. This approach has the characteristics of a short operation time, low device dependence, and a good match to the POCT strategy, suggesting that the platform can be easily applied locally or on site.

Graphical abstract
The modern architecture culture of Harbin based on memes
Authors: Cai Jun , Dong Jianfei , Zhou Yuan
Published: November 2024

Cultural memes, which have the same heritability and variability as particulate biological genes, provide culture units that can be shared and transmitted across different periods, allowing cultural computing to be performed in a fine-grained manner. This paper extracts regional architectural cultural memes from the basic information of Harbin city’s modern architectural heritage and constructs an urban historical architectural cultural meme matrix. By using the social network calculation method, we analyse representative architectural memes, such as material memes, structural system memes, and architectural style memes, which represent the evolution of urban architectural culture, construct a network of urban architectural cultural memes, and explore their clustering characteristics and centrality characteristics. The research shows that Harbin’s urban architectural culture in the development and evolution of the process has a holistic cultural characterisation beyond architectural meme monoliths and architectural memeplexes and has formed a highly coupled and complex cultural system. The clustering coefficients of the architectural meme networks in the cultural pattern of urban architecture in different periods are all between 0.575 and 0.676 (more than 0.5), suggesting that the cultural similarities within the clusters of architectural heritages in the city have the characteristics of continuous heredity. The methodology and conclusions of this study can provide a methodological reference for the design of contemporary urban architecture cultural patterns and provide data supporting the development and improvement of urban historic district conservation planning.
2D amorphous solids for sub-nanometer scale devices
Authors: Jang Hyeonseo , Kim Hyeonju , Kim Gayoon , Cho Suyeon , Yang Heejun
Published: November 2024

Amorphous solids are a type of condensed matter characterized by the absence of long-range order in their lattice structure. However, they still exhibit short- or medium-range order, which contributes to their versatile local and global electronic and chemical properties. Recently, 2D amorphous solids have gained attention for their exceptional mechanical and electronic features, which are unattainable in conventional crystalline materials. This review highlights the physical properties of ultrathin 2D amorphous solids, which are formed through covalent bonding and feature polyhedron structures with shared edges and corners. Two notable examples of 2D amorphous solids include honeycomb-structured nanosheets with mixed hybrid orbitals and layered materials with reduced coordination numbers of the elements. We provide an in-depth discussion of (1) the phase transition between crystalline and amorphous phases in 2D solids, (2) advanced synthetic methods for producing high-quality amorphous films with precise thickness control, and (3) the potential applications of sub-nanometer scale 2D amorphous solids. Lastly, we explore their potential to revolutionize the design of highly versatile electronic devices at sub-nanometer scales.

Graphical Abstract
[18F]FDG PET/CT performs better than CT in determining the bone biopsy site : randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Chang Yujie , Gu Yifeng , Ruan Shunyi , Xu Shengyu , Sun Jing , Jiang Zhiyuan , Yao Guangyu , Wang Zhiyu , Zhao Hui
Published: November 2024

Background

Bone biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing bone metastases. However, there is no clinical consensus regarding the optimal imaging test for determining the puncture site.

Methods

We compared the performance of [18F]FDG PET/CT with CT in detecting bone metastases to achieve the highest biopsy efficiency. This registered prospective study enrolled 273 patients with bone lesions who were treated between January 2020 and March 2021. Patients were randomly assigned to undergo [18F]FDG PET/CT or CT to determine the puncture site before bone biopsy. The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, second biopsy rate, diagnostic time and cost-effectiveness of the two imaging tests were compared.

Results

The accuracy and sensitivity of [18F]FDG PET/CT group in detecting bone metastases were significantly higher than CT group(97.08% vs. 90.44%, 98.76% vs. 92.22%, P < 0.05). The second biopsy rate was significantly lower in the [18F]FDG PET/CT group (2.19% vs. 5.15%; P < 0.05). The diagnostic time of [18F]FDG PET/CT was 18.33 ± 2.08 days, which was significantly shorter than 21.28 ± 1.25 days in CT group ( P < 0.05). The cost of [18F] FDG PETCT is 11428.35 yuan, and the cost of CT is 13287.52 yuan; the incremental cost is 1859.17 yuan. SUVmax > 6.3 combined with ALP > 103 U/L showed a tendency for tumor metastases with an AUC of 0.901 (95%CI 0.839 to 0.946, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

[18F]FDG PET/CT has better performance and cost-effectiveness than CT in determining the bone biopsy site for suspect bone metastases.

Trial registration

The prospective study was registered on 2018-04-10, and the registration number is ChiCTR1800015540.
Perturbation of mammary epithelial cell apicobasal polarity by RHBDF1-facilitated nuclear translocation of PKCζ
Authors: Zhao Huan-Yu , Zhu Yi-Pan , Wen Ying , Sun Jing , Ding Xin-Yu , Cao Xin-Yu , Wu Kai-Liang , Fu Li , Li Lu-Yuan
Published: November 2024

Background

The establishment of apicobasal polarity in epithelial cells is of critical importance in morphogenesis of mammary gland and other secretive gland tissues. The demise of the polarity is a critical step in early stages of tumorigenesis such as in breast ductal carcinoma in situ. The underlying molecular mechanism thus warrants in-depth investigations.

Results

Protein kinase C isoform ζ (PKCζ), which is highly expressed in breast cancer cells, accumulates in the nuclei of human mammary epithelial cells overexpressing human rhomboid family-1 (RHBDF1), an endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein. Nuclear translocation of PKCζ results in the failure of the formation of the cytosolic apicobasal polarity complex Par, of which PKCζ is an essential component. Additionally, enhanced nuclear translocation of PKCζ is accompanied by an inhibition of the expression of cell tight junction and adherens junction proteins and an increase of cell mobility. Mechanistically, RHBDF1 is able to interact with importin β1 and PKCζ and promote PKCζ phosphorylation. Consistently, treatment of RHBDF1-overexpressing cells with an inhibitor of PKCζ phosphorylation leads to restoration of apicobasal polarity and cell-cell junctions, as well as suppressed cell mobility.

Conclusions

RHBDF1-facilitated nuclear translocation of PKCζ is critically responsible for the dismantlement of epithelial cell apicobasal polarity, and thus may serve as a target in the development of therapeutic approaches against early stages of breast cancer.
Study on the therapeutic potential of induced neural stem cells for Alzheimer's disease in mice
Authors: Ji Qiongqiong , Lv Yuanhao , Hu Bei , Su Yue , Shaikh Imran Ibrahim , Zhu Xu
Published: November 2024

Induced neural stem cells (iNSCs), which have similar properties to neural stem cells and are able to self-proliferate and differentiate into neural cell lineages, are expected to be potential cells for the treatment of neurodegeneration disease. However, cell therapy based on iNSCs transplantation is limited by the inability to acquire sufficient quantities of iNSCs. Previous studies have found that mouse and human fibroblasts can be directly reprogrammed into iNSCs with a single factor, Sox2. Here, we induced mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) into iNSCs by combining valproic acid (VPA) with the induction factor Sox2, and the results showed that VPA significantly improved the conversion efficiency of fibroblasts to iNSCs. The iNSCs exhibited typical neurosphere-like structures that can express NSCs markers, such as Sox2, Nestin, Sox1, and Zbtb16, and could differentiate into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes in vitro. Subsequently, the iNSCs were stereotactically transplanted into the hippocampus of APP/PS1 double transgenic mice (AD mice). Post-transplantation, the iNSCs showed long-term survival, migrated over long distances, and differentiated into multiple types of functional neurons and glial cells in vivo. Importantly, the cognitive abilities of APP/PS1 mice transplanted with iNSCs exhibited significant functional recovery. These findings suggest that VPA enhances the conversion efficiency of fibroblasts into iNSCs when used in combination with Sox2, and iNSCs hold promise as a potential donor material for transplantation therapy in Alzheimer’s disease.
The International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education: content and authorship analysis 2010–2024
Authors: Bond Melissa
Published: November 2024

In celebrating the 20th anniversary of the International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education (IJETHE), previously known as the Revista de Universidad y Sociedad del Conocimiento (RUSC), it is timely to reflect upon the shape and depth of educational technology research as it has appeared within the journal, in order to understand how IJETHE has contributed to furthering scholarship, and to provide future directions to the field. It is particularly important to understand authorship patterns in terms of equity and diversity, especially in regard to ensuring wide-ranging geographical and gender representation in academic publishing. To this end, a content and authorship analysis was conducted of 631 articles, published in RUSC and IJETHE from 2010 to June 2024. Furthermore, in order to contribute to ongoing efforts to raise methodological standards of secondary research being conducted within the field, an analysis of the quality of evidence syntheses published in IJETHE from 2018 to June 2024 was conducted. Common themes in IJETHE have been students’ experience and engagement in online learning, the role of assessment and feedback, teachers’ digital competencies, and the development and quality of open educational practices and resources. The authorship analysis revealed gender parity and an increasingly international identity, although contributions from the Middle East, South America and Africa remain underrepresented. The findings revealed a critical need for enhanced efforts to raise the methodological rigour of EdTech evidence syntheses, and suggestions are provided for how IJETHE can help move the field forwards. Key future research areas include educator professional development, the impact of digital tools on learning outcomes and engagement, the influence of social and contextual factors, the application of AI tools to support learning, and the use of multimodal data to analyse student learning across diverse contexts.
Effect of inappropriate solid waste on microplastic contamination in Balasore district and its aquatic environment
Authors: Mohanta Arun Kumar , Sahoo Chittaranjan , Jena Rajkumar , Sahoo Sthitaprajna , Bishoyi Sunil Kumar , Patra Biswajit , Dash Soumya Ranjan , Pradhan Biswajita
Published: November 2024

Background

Microplastic infection is now one of the world’s key environmental concerns. The most significant causes of microplastic contamination in aquatic ecosystems are coastal villages, coastal landfill sites, shipping activities and coastal dumping areas. Microplastic ingestion has been described in an inclusive assortment of aquatic ecosystems from different trophic levels. This paper provides scientific evidence of microplastic contamination in solid waste from various coastal sites in the Balasore district.

Results

The coastal village environment is composite sand soils and comprises numerous contaminants that have substantial effects on the detection of characterization results. Significant differences in the results of ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy determine many pollutants that are possibly affected by different aspects, including sampling and instrumental settings. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) has been applied for the first time to the detection of microplastic content in solid wastes. In comparison with other techniques like Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, it allows the detection of smaller microparticles. Microplastics in the solid wastes occur at variable size from nm to µm and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy with Fourier transform infrared techniques are suitable for screening. In addition, gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) is becoming a valuable component of analytical platforms for monitoring plastic content. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging also detects different shapes of microplastics in solid wastes.

Conclusions

Our study offers fresh perspectives on critical environmental areas for further research as well as how rural populations worldwide should be involved in the future studies on plastic pollution. The presence of microplastics in solid waste has led to increased scrutiny and calls for regulation. Governments and organizations are exploring policies to reduce plastic waste and mitigate its impacts on the environment and human health.
Ischemia/reperfusion injury in acute human and experimental stroke: focus on thrombo-inflammatory mechanisms and treatments
Authors: Stoll Guido , Nieswandt Bernhard , Schuhmann Michael K.
Published: November 2024

Background

Despite high recanalization rates of > 90% after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) clinical outcome in around 50% of treated acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients is still poor. Novel treatments augmenting the beneficial effects of recanalization are eagerly awaited, but this requires mechanistic insights to explain and overcome futile recanalization.

Main body

At least two mechanisms contribute to futile recanalization after cerebral large vessel occlusions (LVO): (i) the no reflow phenomenon as evidenced by randomly distributed areas without return of blood flow despite reperfusion of large cerebral arteries, and (ii) ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, the paradoxically harmful aspect of blood flow return in transiently ischemic organs. There is accumulating evidence from experimental stroke models that platelets and leukocytes interact and partly obstruct the microvasculature under LVO, and that platelet-driven inflammation (designated thrombo-inflammation) extends into the reperfusion phase and causes I/R injury. Blocking of platelet glycoprotein receptors (GP) Ib and GPVI ameliorated inflammation and I/R injury providing novel therapeutic options. Recently, MRI studies confirmed a significant, up to 40% infarct expansion after recanalization in AIS thereby proofing the existance of I/R injury in the human brain. Moreover, analysis of minute samples of ischemic arterial blood aspirated directly from the pial cerebral collateral circulation under LVO during the routine EVT procedure confirmed platelet activation and platelet-driven leukocyte accumulation in AIS and, thus, the principal transferability of pathophysiological stroke mechanisms from rodents to man. Two recently published clinical phase 1b/2a trials targeted (thrombo-) inflammation in AIS: The ACTIMIS trial targeting platelet GPVI by glenzocimab provided encouraging safety signals in AIS similar to the ApTOLL trial targeting toll-like receptor 4, a central receptor guiding stroke-induced innate immunity. However, both studies were not powered to show clinical efficacy.

Conclusions

The fact that the significance of I/R injury in AIS has recently been formally established and given the decisive role of platelet-leukocytes interactions herein, new avenues for adjunct stroke treatments emerge. Adjusted study designs to increase the probability of success are of outmost importance and we look forward from what can be learned from the so far unpublished, presumbably negative ACTISAFE and MOST trials.
Automatic segmentation, classification, and prediction of pelvic bone tumors using deep learning techniques
Authors: Shouman Mona , Rahouma Kamel Hussein , Hamed Hesham F. A.
Published: November 2024

MRI and CT images are widely utilized for detecting tumors in internal organs. However, accurately distinguishing tumors using these images only, poses a challenge. This demands human expertise to effectively mark tumors in a given MRI or CT image, which is time-consuming. In this study, MONAI Label and MONAI Dynamic U-Net (DynU-Net) were used to segment tumors in any given 3D CT image of the pelvic bone, aiming to assist radiologists further. This method helps to run the model without needing a GPU which is better than traditional approaches. In addition, a convolutional neural network (CNN) was used to classify the tumors as benign or malignant and to predict three grades of tumors (low, medium, and high). The use of CNN in classification and prediction gives higher results than other studies. A dataset of 178 3D CT picture images was employed to feed the networks with the help of Adam optimizer and Categorical cross-entropy. We employ a set of 3D CT scans because of their greater contrast and spatial resolution which is better used for pelvic bone tumors. The Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and Hausdorff distance (HD) have been used to perform calculations in segmentation. The results show a DSC of 0.7660280 and an HD of 16.75480. A range of performance metrics, such as sensitivity, specification, and F1-score for classification and prediction methods, are used to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed system. The system has accuracy (99.4%) for classification and (97.8%) for prediction. These findings indicate that MONAI Label is effective for automatic segmentation of tumors in a given CT scan; with high accuracy. Moreover, CNN is useful for classification and prediction systems with high accuracy. However, achieving better results is possible with an abundance of training samples.
Ανάπτυξη υπολογιστικών τεχνικών με τη χρήση διατυπώσεων μεικτών πεπερασμένων στοιχείων στο σύστημα των εξισώσεων του Maxwell για προβλήματα ηλεκτρομαγνητικής διάδοσης
Authors: Σαλονικιός Βασίλειος
Published: November 2024

Το ενδιαφέρον της διατριβής επικεντρώνεται στις μικτές διατυπώσεις πεπερασμένων στοιχείων για τις εξισώσεις του Maxwell στο πεδίο της συχνότητας. Αναπτύσσονται διατυπώσεις πεπερασμένων στοιχείων για το πρόβλημα ιδιοτιμών όπου οι λύσεις περιλαμβάνουν όλες τις δυνατές μορφές ηλεκτρομαγνητικής διάδοσης σε σύνθετες περιοδικές δομές, καθώς και για προβλήματα διέγερσης που εξετάζουν τη διάδοση ηλεκτρομαγνητικών κυμάτων σε συγκεκριμένες συχνότητες και κατανομές πεδίων διέγερσης. Περιγράφεται μια νέα διατύπωση ιδιοτιμών Ε-Β για τον χαρακτηρισμό σύνθετων περιοδικών διατάξεων, αναζητώντας ζεύγη ιδιοτιμών (σύνθετη σταθερά διάδοσης β) και ιδιοδιανύσματα (περιοδικούς φακέλους των ηλεκτρικών πεδίων E και μαγνητικών πεδίων B) για την κατασκευή διαγραμμάτων διασποράς χωρίς να απαιτούνται διαδικασίες γραμμικοποίησης. Αυτή η διατύπωση E-B επιστρέφει και τα δύο πεδία στην ίδια τάξη προσέγγισης, βελτιώνοντας την ακρίβεια. Η διαδικασία ω-β επιτρέπει τη μελέτη μέσων με διασπορά συχνότητας, επιστρέφοντας ακριβείς σταθερές διάδοσης. Προτάθηκαν ακόμη στρατηγικές για την βελτίωση της κατάστασης του αλγεβρικού συστήματος της διατύπωσης, ενω μελετήθηκε και η εμφάνιση μη φυσικών ρυθμών. Η διατύπωση ιδιοτιμών επεκτάθηκε και σε σύνθετες δομές οι οποίτες περιέχουν διανισοτροπικά υλικά, ενώ περιγράφηκαν και οριακές συνθήκες απορρόφησης και γραφενίου. Το ενδιαφέρον της διατριβής επεκτείνεται και στις μικτές διατυπώσεις πεπερασμένων στοιχείων για προβλήματα διέγερσης, με στόχο την κατασκευή προρυθμιστικών διαδικασιών (preconditioning) για την επίλυση προβλημάτων μεγάλης κλίμακας χρησιμοποιώντας τη διατύπωση E-B. Εξετάστηκαν προρυθμιστές που χρησιμοποιούν τα συμπληρώματα Schur με αραιές και εύκολα κατασκευάσιμες προσεγγίσεις τους. Διερευνήθηκε τέλος και η χρήση της τεχνικής ιεραρχικών πινάκων για την κατασκευή προρυθμιστών για τη διατύπωση E-B, καταδεικνύοντας τη δυνητική ενσωμάτωση τεχνικών ιεραρχικών μητρών σε πρακτικές διαδικασίες προρύθμισης.
Metabolic Impacts of Oral Contraceptives A Comprehensive Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Zagórski Karol , Skalska-Dziobek Nina , Kozik Mateusz , Małagocka Weronika , Chybowska Karolina , Orłowski Mateusz , Naruszewicz Maria , Midro Aleksandra , Cetnarowski Przemysław
Published: November 2024

Introduction and objective: Oral hormonal contraception (COC) is a highly popular, as well as extensive group of medications.  A significant impact of chronic COC therapy on parameters of lipid metabolism, carbohydrates, binding globulins, coagulation system and body weight of patients has been proven. Given the continuously increasing number of women using COC, initiating therapy at progressively younger ages it is reasonable to investigate the impact of individual medications on patients’ organisms completing knowledge with conclusions from newly conducted research, as well as the influence of new types of drugs on the studied indicators.
Material and method: The literature was reviewed in the Pubmed database, GoogleScholar, the positions of the Polish gynecological society with the use of keywords.
State of knowledge: The use of COC is widespread among women. According to the citied studies, over 80% of premenopausal women have declared using oral contraceptives. Typically, COCs consist of a combination of estrogen and progestin components, offering various possible combinations and dosing regimens. Despite their high efficacy in preventing pregnancy, their impact on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, as well as consequences remains incompletely understood. Older generations of progestins, due to their similarity to testosterone, can cause negative androgenic effects, while more recent progestins are expected to be neutral.
Summary: Each type of therapy is characterized by individual impact on the patients’ organism, however, the majority of progestins affect the increase of triglycerides, HDL and have ambiguous effect on LDL. COC has a limited influence on BMI, carbohydrate metabolism, coagulation system and glycemia.
Impact of Physical Activity on Digestive System Diseases
Authors: Zabawa Bartłomiej , Sadowski Jakub , Mól Piotr , Papież Łukasz Stanisław , Dołęga Julia , Krzykawski Karol , Maciejczyk Tomasz , Sieńko Antoni , Łabuś Małgorzata , Hudzińska Patrycja
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
Introduction: Digestive system diseases, including IBD, and GERD, are prevalent health concerns worldwide. Physical activity, widely acknowledged for its health benefits, has emerged as a promising area of research for its potential in mitigating symptoms and influencing risk factors associated with digestive system diseases. This study aims to critically assess existing evidence on the role of physical activity in the prevention, symptom management, and progression of prevalent digestive disorders. 
Materials and Methods: A systematic review of pertinent studies was conducted through comprehensive searches in databases including PubMed, NCBI and Google Scholar. The data were sourced from clinical and experimental studies, evaluated for methodological rigor, participant characteristics, and therapeutic outcomes. 
State of knowledge: The analysis demonstrated that physical activity can exert beneficial effects on digestive health through mechanisms such as enhanced gut motility, reduced inflammation, and increased microbiota diversity. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise was associated with reduced risk and symptom improvement in patients with IBS and IBD, while high-intensity exercise showed variable effects, with potential symptom exacerbation in certain cases. Additionally, exercise correlated with a lower incidence of GERD, likely due to benefits in weight management. Despite these positive associations, inconsistencies in study design and exercise protocols underscore the need for standardized guidelines on physical activity tailored to specific digestive conditions. 
Conclusions: Physical activity appears to play a beneficial role in managing and potentially preventing certain digestive system diseases. While moderate exercise shows promise in symptom alleviation and risk reduction, further research is necessary to establish clear, condition-specific exercise recommendations.
A Review of The Impact of Coach Authority on Sports Emotions and Behavioral Responses
Authors: Zhang Tingran , Zhang Mufan , Yang Yi , Luo Jiong
Published: November 2024

Most athletes have experienced negative anger when facing coach authority, but coach authority may also evoke positive emotions in athletes, as coach authority contains two layers of connotations: authoritarianism and strictness. This study explores the relationship between coach authority and athlete's emotional and behavioral tendencies based on Lazarus's emotional theory, elucidates the emotional changes of athletes facing coach authority, summarizes the theoretical framework and possible development process of coach authority and athlete's emotional and behavioral tendencies, and provides important references for the training skills and team management of sports coaches.
Knee injuries in football – types, circumstances, impact and prevention
Authors: Salamon Dariusz , Stachowiak Julia , Sosin Julia , Pilarz Anna , Zwierzchowska Maria , Sojka Aleksandra , Domagała Wojciech , Sobik Klaudia
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
Football is a globally popular sport with millions of participants, including professional and amateur players, who face a high risk of injuries, particularly to the knee joint. This study explores the impact of football on knee injuries, detailing knee anatomy, common injuries, their circumstances, treatment methods, and preventive measures. Key findings reveal that knee injuries are prevalent in football, with a significant portion being severe, leading to substantial downtime for players. Effective prevention strategies, such as pre-season preparations and injury prevention programs like FIFA 11+, are critical in reducing injury rates and ensuring players' long-term performance and career longevity.
AIM OF THE STUDY:
The aim of the study is to summarize the available knowledge on the most common knee injuries in soccer and highlight their circumstances, impact on the health and careers of soccer players, and injury prevention options.
SUMMARY:
Football's global appeal sees over 270 million participants, with a significant number engaged at professional levels, heightening their risk of injuries due to the sport's physically demanding nature. The knee joint, a modified hinge joint comprising bones, ligaments, menisci, and other structures, plays a crucial role in football-related movements, making it susceptible to injuries.Data from various studies highlight the prevalence and severity of knee injuries in football. UEFA reports knee injuries accounting for 12-17% of all injuries, with severe cases leading to over four weeks of absence. The injury rate is notably higher during matches than training, emphasizing the need for robust preventive measures.
KEYWORDS: Knee injury, Football, Prevention, Treatment, Knee joint, Injury
Nijmegen breakage Syndrome - how much do we know about this rare condition of Slavs? - disease overview
Authors: Muciek Adrianna , Mocarska Martyna , Orłowska Anna , Strakowska Katarzyna , Opalska Laura , Maryńczak Anna , Mencel Jan , Nitschke Nicole
Published: November 2024

Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS) is a rare autosomal recessive defect of immunity, characterised by chromosomal instability and radiation sensitivity with a high predisposition to malignancy. The clinical manifestations of this condition include microcephaly, combined immunodeficiency, growth retardation and a range of additional abnormalities, including facial, skeletal and skin anomalies (such as café au lait spots and vitiligo). It is estimated that 40% of patients will develop cancer before reaching the age of 21 years. [1-2]
The aetiology of this syndrome can be attributed to a mutation in the NBS1 gene, which is localised on chromosome 8q21 and is responsible for the production of the protein nibrin. [3] The most common mutation responsible for NBS (c.657_661del5) is consistent with a founder effect, with the majority of registered patients originating from Central and Eastern Europe and the largest cohort diagnosed in Poland. [4]
This article provides an overview of Nijmegen breakage syndrome (NBS), including epidemiology, symptoms, diagnostic pathway and patient management, as well as treatment options. The objective of this study is to enhance awareness of this condition in order facilitate an early diagnosis and screening for malignancy in patients.
Impact of brain-gut microbiota composition on depression
Authors: Ptasiński Aleksander , Targońska Marta , Targoński Oskar , Madej Adrianna , Suława Adrian , Furgalska Julia , Fedorowicz Sebastian , Basiak Aneta , Niekurzak Rafał , Buczek Agnieszka
Published: November 2024

Introduction and Purpose: Recently, depression has significantly marked its presence in both the scientific and social spheres due to its connections with suicides. According to WHO data, it affects approximately 280 million people and as much as 5% of all adults worldwide. The primary treatment for this condition includes drugs such as SSRIs and SNRIs. However, in the last decade, numerous studies have demonstrated the impact of gut bacteria dysbiosis on brain functions and, consequently, its role in the pathogenesis of depression. Therefore, this paper focuses on the mechanisms and factors that negatively or positively affect the state of gut microbiota leading to depression, as well as on modern intervention methods in this field.State of Knowledge: Recent clinical studies highlight that gut bacteria, in connection with the immune system, can influence brain function, including the pathogenesis of depression. According to scientists, this influence occurs through bacteria present in the gut, their metabolism, and its products. However, depending on the composition of the gut microbiota (i.e., bacterial taxa), the substances produced in the gut can have a positive or negative impact on brain function regulation, thus contributing to an increased risk of depression symptoms or to their alleviation and remission.Summary: This review paper describes the currently known factors that negatively or positively affect the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiota composition, their effectiveness in microbiome modulation, and potential methods for treating gut bacterial dysbiosis, which often coexists in patients suffering from depression. It is important to note the significant individual variability in the context of changes in the depressive microbiome and the response to various modification methods. Therefore, when selecting appropriate therapy, cooperation with the patient will be crucial to achieve satisfactory results and avoid adverse effects.
The Reform Path of Physical Education Curriculum in Chinese Basic Education
Authors: Jiang Bo , Wang Shaojie , Fu Yao , Xiang Jinbo , Chen Qiuyi
Published: November 2024

This research takes the path of PE curriculum reform in basic education as the research object, and makes a profound analysis of the present situation of PE curriculum reform in basic education by the method of literature. The research shows that there are four problems in the current PE curriculum reform of basic education in China: the theoretical basis fails to reach consensus, the PE teaching conditions do not meet the development needs of PE curriculum reform, the concept and importance of the leadership in charge of PE curriculum reform is not high, and the lack of vertical promotion mechanism in the implementation of PE curriculum. The research value lies in: On the basis of inheriting and learning from, we should carry out the spirit of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, implement the fundamental task of cultivating morality and educating people, and do a good job of education that satisfies the people. We should reposition and innovate the concept, system, teaching method and course content of physical education curriculum in our current schools, and consider the direction of physical education curriculum reform and optimization in our basic education schools. Let the students get physical and mental health, social skills and sports morality in the physical education classroom and life.
Approaches to Treating Tennis Elbow: Surgical vs. Conservative Treatment
Authors: Dziegciarczyk Anna , Banyś Filip , Wiak Iga , Bochen Konrad , Czyżewski Filip , Górska Weronika , Jasiński Filip , Łukawski Artur , Szałajska Julia , Wojtach Klaudia
Published: November 2024

Introduction
Tennis Elbow, known also as Lateral Epicondylitis (LE) is a very common overuse injury affecting not only tennis players. Mainly, it causes pain, weakness in grip strength and difficulties with daily activities. Most patients are successfully treated with non-surgical methods but some of them eventually require surgical intervention.
Aim of study
The objective of this study is to evaluate both surgical and non-surgical treatment methods for Tennis Elbow and seeks to introduce doctors and patients to the assets and downsides associated with them.
State of Knowledge
Tennis Elbow occurs in 1-3% of adults, most likely when frequently performing repeated movements of flexion and extension of the elbow. At the early stages inflammation is present, after that the vascular hyperplasia and active fibroblasts occur. Most common risk factors are manual labour, ipsilateral rotator cuff tear, ipsilateral Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), female sex, dominant-side involvement, and hypertriglyceridemia.
Summary (Conclusion)
There is a wide range of available conservative treatment methods for Lateral Epicondylitis including physical therapy, various injections, and medication. They should be considered as the first line treatment showing high success rate for mild and moderate cases. Surgical methods have high success rates as well though they are considered more invasive and performed only on chronic patients. Best approach ought to be carefully selected for each patient based on severity of symptoms and patient needs.
Contrast-induced nephropathy - prevention and treatment
Authors: Bajak Mateusz , Słowik Julia , Zapasek Daniel , Szczepański Michał , Mamczur Maciej , Feret Dominik Maciej , Inglot Jadwiga , Inglot Julia , Kuliga Marcin , Sowa Damian , Widawska Katarzyna
Published: November 2024

Introduction and purpose: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is kidney damage that can occur after the administration of contrast agents used in medical imaging procedures like angiography and CT scans. The exact mechanism is not fully understood but is believed to involve direct toxic effects, changes in kidney blood flow, and inflammation. Diagnosis is based on increased serum creatinine levels after contrast exposure. CIN poses challenges due to the rising use of contrast imaging, an aging population, and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. The Aim of this article is to summarize information on how to  prevent contrast-induced nephropathy. Review of medications and pre-procedural screening and monitoring helpful to lower risk of CIN. 
State of knowledge: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a form of kidney damage that may occur following the administration of contrast agents used in medical imaging procedures. The exact mechanism of contrast-induced nephropathy is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of factors, including the direct toxic effects of the contrast agent on kidney cells, changes in blood flow to the kidneys, and the body's inflammatory response,  direct effect of oxygen free radicals. The diagnosis of CIN is typically based on an increase in serum creatinine levels within a certain time frame after the administration of the contrast agent. According to European guidelines, the definition of CIN is increased creatinine level in serum by 25% from baseline or  creatinine total level in serum increased by 0.5 mg/dL (44 µmol/L)  48-72h after contrast media administration.  
Material and methods. A review of the available literature of PubMed database from 1992 – 2024.
Cardiovascular effects of air pollution
Authors: Niekurzak Rafał , Targońska Marta , Targoński Oskar , Buczek Agnieszka , Ptasiński Aleksander , Suława Adrian , Basiak Aneta , Furgalska Julia , Fedorowicz Sebastian
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Introduction and Purpose:
Most cardiovascular problems are related to hypertension. Arterial hypertension is a persistent increase in blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or more. Hypertension usually does not cause symptoms for many years and if the blood pressure value is not regularly monitored, it is detected when complications occur in various organs (e.g. heart, kidneys, brain). The aim of the study was to determine the impact of air pollution on Cardiovascular effects. The article was based on the PubMed database.
State of Knowledge:
There are many factors that negatively affect the cardiovascular system (smoking, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle). Most of them can be corrected individually. Air pollution is such an example. Studies have been performed in many polluted cities around the world to investigate the relationship between air pollution and cardiovascular disease. Researchers found this to have a negative impact.
Summary:
This review describes what air pollution is in terms of particle size and their origin. Even though these particles enter the body through the respiratory tract, they can do just as much damage to the cardiovascular system and, based on some studies, even greater damage. At the end of the article, the focus is on personal and collective protection against air pollution.
 
Keywords: Particulate matter, Air pollution, Cardiovascular disease, environment, ,blood pressure, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, morbidity.
Tight Bounds for Secretary Matching in General Graphs
Authors: Ezra Tomer , Feldman Michal , Gravin Nikolai , Tang Zhihao (Gavin)
Published: November 2024

Online algorithms for secretary matching in bipartite weighted graphs have been studied extensively in recent years. We generalize this study to secretary matching in general weighted graphs. In our model, vertices arrive online in a uniformly random order; upon the arrival of a vertex v, the weights of edges from v to all previously arriving vertices are revealed, and the algorithm decides which of these edges, if any, to include in the matching. We provide a tight 5/12-competitive algorithm for this setting. Interestingly, it outperforms the best possible algorithm for secretary matching in bipartite graphs with one-sided arrival, which cannot be better than 1/e-competitive.

Funding: The work is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) [Grant 61932002]. The work of M. Feldman was partially supported by the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program [Grant 866132] and by the Israel Science Foundation [Grant 317/17]. Z. (G.) Tang and N. Gravin are partially supported by the Key Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Research of Computation and Economics (Shanghai University of Finance and Economics), Ministry of Education. N. Gravin is also supported by the NSFC [Grant 62150610500]. T. Ezra is supported by the Harvard University Center of Mathematical Sciences and Applications.
Apps for learning disability assessments
Authors: Harvey Bill
Published: November 2024

Bill Harvey describes a some of the many apps available that can be helpful when assessing patients with significant learning disability
Post-cataract extraction blur
Authors: Patel Kirit
Published: November 2024

Kirit Patel describes two cases where a patient's post-operative vision after cataract extraction were not as good as expected
Focus groups highlight industry issues
Authors: McClean Andrew
Published: November 2024

Andrew McClean speaks to Optical Express about clinical skills, education and sustainability in optometry
Diary of a spectacle designer
Authors: Davies Tom
Published: November 2024

With everything going on in the world, Tom Davies thinks we could all do with some positivity
Managing workplace romance
Authors: Chander Tina
Published: November 2024

Tina Chander offers a legal view on workplace romance
Feedback: Alzheimer's interactive
Authors: Harvey Bill
Published: November 2024

Bill Harvey offers a summary of the main outcomes of your discussions concerning how best to deal with a patient showing signs of cognitive impairment while author Cirta Tooth offers her views (C101678)
CPD: Bcla clear 3
Authors: McDonnell Claire
Published: November 2024

The third in a series of articles summarising the key findings of the BCLA CLEAR publication, a major review of the published evidence relating to all aspects of contact lens practice, Dr Claire McDonnell offers an overview of the BCLA CLEAR section relating to the effect of contact lenses on the eye. (C-102744 suitable for one distance learning CPD point for optometrists, contact lens opticians and dispensing opticians)
Dry eye and cataract surgery
Authors: Ipek Tugce , Hartwig Andreas , Wolffsohn James , O'Donnell Clare
Published: November 2024

Tugce Ipek, Andreas Hartwig, James Wolffsohn, Clare O'Donnell from Optegra Eye Health Care explain the effect of light exposure using an in vitro model
Dry eye treatment options
Authors: Harvey Bill
Published: November 2024

Bill Harvey looks at some of the technology available from Essilor to manage the dry eye condition
Tax changes for taxing times
Authors: Chaudhry Mo
Published: November 2024

The mini-budget unveiled by the UK government on September 23 has proved highly controversial. Mo Chaudhry outlines the key takeaways from an optical perspective