bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The potential of astragalus polysaccharide for treating diabetes and its action mechanism
Authors: Liu Shiyu , Wang Luyao , Zhang Zehua , Leng YuLin , Yang Yan , Fu Xiaoxu , Xie Hongyan , Gao Hong , Xie Chunguang 
Published: April 2024

Type 2 diabetes presents a significant global health burden and is frequently linked to serious clinical complications, including diabetic cardiomyopathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy. Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), extracted from Astragalus membranaceus, exhibits various biochemical and physiological effects. In recent years, a growing number of researchers have investigated the role of APS in glucose control and the treatment of diabetes and its complications in various diabetes models, positioning APS as a promising candidate for diabetes therapy. This review surveys the literature on APS from several databases over the past 20 years, detailing its mechanisms of action in preventing and treating diabetes mellitus. The findings indicate that APS can address diabetes by enhancing insulin resistance, modulating the immune system, protecting islet cells, and improving the intestinal microbiota. APS demonstrates positive pharmacological value and clinical potential in managing diabetic complications, including diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, cognitive dysfunction, wound healing, and more. However, further research is necessary to explore APS’s bioavailability, optimal dosage, and additional clinical evidence.
Bactericidal and biofilm eradication efficacy of a fluorinated benzimidazole derivative, TFBZ, against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Chen Qian , Dong Zhihui , Yao Xuedi , Sun Huan , Pan Xin , Liu Jikai , Huang Rong 
Published: April 2024

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major inducement of nosocomial infections and its biofilm formation render the high tolerance to conventional antibiotics, which highlights the requirement to develop new antimicrobial agents urgently. In this study, we identified a fluorinated benzimidazole derivative, TFBZ, with potent antibacterial efficacy toward planktonic MRSA (MIC = 4 μg/mL, MBC = 8 μg/mL) and its persistent biofilms (≥99%, MBEC = 8 μg/mL). TFBZ manifested significant irreversible time-dependent killing against MRSA as characterized by diminished cell viability, bacterial morphological change and protein leakage. Furthermore, the results from CBD devices, crystal violet assay in conjunction with live/dead staining and scanning electron microscopy confirmed that TFBZ was capable of eradicating preformed MRSA biofilms with high efficiency. Simultaneously, TFBZ reduced the bacterial invasiveness and exerted negligible hemolysis and cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells, which ensuring the robust therapeutic effect on mouse skin abscess model. The transcriptome profiling and quantitative RT-PCR revealed that a set of encoding genes associated with cell adhesion, biofilm formation, translation process, cell wall biosynthesis was consistently downregulated in MRSA biofilms upon exposure to TFBZ. In conclusion, TFBZ holds promise as a valuable candidate for therapeutic applications against MRSA chronic infections.
Implementing the EU HTA regulation: Insights from semi-structured interviews on patient expectations, Belgian and European institutional perspectives, and industry outlooks
Authors: Desmet Thomas , Brijs Maud , Vanderdonck Frank , Tops Sven , Simoens Steven , Huys Isabelle 
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The goal of the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Regulation 2021/2282 is to establish a more harmonized HTA framework, fostering member states cooperation and enabling equal patient access to innovative health technologies in Europe. This research aimed to assess the impact of the regulation on national HTAs, the strategic implications for health technology developers, and its influence on price and reimbursement negotiations.Methods: A scoping literature review encompassing peer-reviewed literature as well as grey literature was conducted. Between February and March 2023, semi-structured interviews (n = 20) were performed with stakeholders from Belgian governmental institutions, European institutions, advanced therapy medicinal product developers, academics, and sickness funds. The interviews were analyzed using the framework analysis method.Results: Numerous steps, such as the development of implementing acts and procedural guidelines remain to be taken. At member state level, national/regional HTA bodies and payers must act to adopt the new concepts of Joint Scientific Consultations (JSC) and Joint Clinical Assessments (JCA) within their national legislation, as well as revise their timelines and prepare for interactions at a European level. Compiling a harmonized PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome), adapting local procedures, and increasing capacity to actively take part in the JSC and JCA are seen as primary barriers by several stakeholders. Training and education will help HTA bodies, payers, and health technology developers to participate in the European processes.Conclusion: While practical and legal challenges were identified, recommendations (such as actively preparing for the upcoming changes and increasing capacity while providing training) were provided to adapt national and European procedures to the needs of the HTA Regulation 2021/2282. The importance of fostering collaborations and aligning local HTA procedures with the new way of working set out by the Regulation was demonstrated with this study.
Long-term benefits to psychological health and well-being after ceremonial use of Ayahuasca in Middle Eastern and North African immigrants and refugees
Authors: Lowe Matthew X. , Kettner Hannes , Jolly Del R. P. , Carhart-Harris Robin L. , Jackson Heather 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundRefugees and immigrants can experience complex stressors from the process of immigration that can have lasting and severe long-term mental health consequences. Experiences after ayahuasca ingestion are shown to produce positive effects on psychological wellbeing and mental health, including anecdotal reports of improved symptoms of trauma and related disorders. However, data on the longitudinal health impact of naturalistic ayahuasca use in Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) immigrant and refugee populations is limited.AimsThe current longitudinal online survey study was conducted to gather prospective data on ceremonial ayahuasca use in a group (N = 15) of primarily female MENA immigrants and refugees and to provide further insight into the patterns and outcomes surrounding that use. The study sought to assess self-reported changes in physical and mental health, well-being, and psychological functioning, examine relationships between aspects of individual mindset (e.g., psychedelic preparedness) prior to ayahuasca use and observed outcomes during (e.g., subjective drug effects) and afterwards (i.e., persisting effects), characterize risks and negative experiences, and describe trauma exposure and personal history.Results/OutcomesOur findings revealed ceremonial use of ayahuasca is associated with significant improvements in mental health, well-being, and psychological functioning, including reductions in depression, anxiety, and shame, and increases in cognitive reappraisal and self-compassion. Most participants reported no lasting adverse effects and experienced notable positive behavioral changes persisting months after ingestion.Conclusion/InterpretationWhile preliminary, results suggest naturalistic ayahuasca use might hold therapeutic potential for MENA populations exposed to trauma prior to and during the process of migration.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of atrial fibrillation in high altitude areas
Authors: Li Ke , Liu Jinfeng , Zhu Yan 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundTo investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of atrial fibrillation (AF) among the general population in high-altitude areas.MethodologyA web-based cross-sectional study was conducted among the general population in high-altitude areas.ResultsA total of 786 valid questionnaires were enrolled, with a mean age of 34.75 ± 14.16 years. The mean score of knowledge, attitude and practice were 8.22 ± 6.50 (possible range: 0–10), 28.90 ± 5.63 (possible range: 8–40), 34.34 ± 6.44 (possible range: 9–45), respectively. The multivariate analysis showed that knowledge scores (OR = 1.108, 95% CI = 1.075–1.142, p &lt; 0.001), attitude scores (OR = 1.118, 95% CI = 1.081–1.156, p &lt; 0.001), and never smoking (OR = 2.438, 95% CI = 1.426–4.167, p = 0.001) were independently associated with proactive practice. The structural equation modeling (SEM) showed direct effect of knowledge on practice (p = 0.014), and attitude on practice (p = 0.004), while no effect of knowledge on attitude (p = 0.190).ConclusionThe general population in high-altitude regions had adequate knowledge, positive attitude, and proactive practice towards AF. The SEM was suitable for explaining general population’ KAP regarding AF, revealing that knowledge directly and positively affected attitude and practice.
Influence of language barrier and cultural background in hepatitis B disease knowledge in a Chinese community of Spain
Authors: Pocurull Anna , Collazos Cristina , Miralpeix Anna , Tapias Laura , Wang Tao , Moreta María Jose , Mariño Zoe , Lens Sabela , Forns Xavier 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionHepatitis B infection (HBV) is prevalent in China. Due to language barriers and cultural differences, it is not always straightforward to evaluate disease knowledge in liver clinics. We aimed to assess the awareness on HBV and its mechanisms of transmission in HBV-infected Chinese patients and their household contacts.MethodsHBV-infected Chinese patients and their contacts were interviewed by a native Chinese nurse regarding their knowledge on HBV transmission mechanisms, use of preventive measures and vaccination status. Non-Chinese HBV-infected patients and their household contacts served as a control group.ResultsIn total 182 patients and 398 contacts participated with 85 (47%) patients and 240 (60%) contacts being from China. Language barrier was reported in 80% of Chinese patients and 44% of their contacts. Knowledge on parenteral and sexual HBV transmission was high in all patients (~90%) but Chinese were more aware of vertical transmission than controls (94% vs. 68%; p &lt; 0.01). Regarding the use of preventive measures, Chinese patients were more forewarned in their use to avoid parenteral transmission (93% vs. 74%, p &lt; 0.01). When assessing household contacts, Chinese used preventive measures more frequently than controls for parenteral and sexual transmission (79% vs. 65 and 81% vs. 48%, p &lt; 0.05). Vaccination coverage was slightly lower in Chinese contacts compared to controls (78% vs. 86%, p = 0.05).ConclusionDespite relevant language barriers, Chinese patients are well informed on the mechanisms of HBV transmission. Cultural differences may explain a higher use of preventive measures among the Chinese population. HBV vaccination of household contacts should be reinforced in both groups.
HIV seroconversion and associated factors among seronegative pregnant women attending ANC in Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Dessale Dawit Sisay , Gebremariam Mulugeta Betre , Wolde Asrat Arja 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundIn countries with limited resources, including Ethiopia, HIV is diagnosed using a rapid serological test, which does not detect the infection during the window period. Pregnant women who test negative for HIV on the first test may seroconvert throughout pregnancy. Women who are seroconverted during pregnancy may not have received interventions, as they are considered HIV-negative unless they are retested for HIV at the end of their pregnancy. Due to limited data on HIV seroconversion, this study aimed to measure the extent of HIV seroconversion and to identify associated factors among seronegative pregnant women attending ANC in Ethiopia.MethodsInstitution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-negative pregnant women attending the ANC in Ethiopia between June and July 2020. Socio-demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were collected through face-to-face questionnaires and participants' records review. HIV retesting was performed to determine the current HIV status of pregnant women. The data collected were entered into Epi data version 4.4.1 and were exported and analyzed by SPSS version 25. A p-value &lt; 0.25 in the bivariate analysis was entered into multivariable logistic regression analysis and a p-value of &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultOf the 494 pregnant women who tested negative for HIV on their first ANC test, six (1.2%) tested positive on repeat testing. Upon multivariable logistic regression, pregnant women who have had a reported history of sexually transmitted infections [AOR = 7.98; 95% CI (1.21, 52.82)], participants' partners reported travel history for work frequently [AOR = 6.00; 95% CI (1.09, 32.99)], and sexually abused pregnant women [AOR = 7.82; 95% CI (1.194, 51.24)] were significantly associated with HIV seroconversion.ConclusionThe seroconversion rate in this study indicates that pregnant women who are HIV-negative in early pregnancy are at an ongoing risk of seroconversion throughout their pregnancy. Thus, this study highlights the benefit of a repeat HIV testing strategy in late pregnancy, particularly when the risk of seroconversion or new infection cannot be convincingly excluded. Therefore, repeated testing of HIV-negative pregnant women in late pregnancy provides an opportunity to detect seroconverted pregnant women to enable the timely use of ART to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV infection.
Diagnostic value of procalcitonin in patients with periprosthetic joint infection: a diagnostic meta-analysis
Authors: Sun Xiaobo , Li Yijin , Lv Yan , Liu Yuting , Lai Zhiwei , Zeng Yirong , Zhang Haitao 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundThe success rate of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) treatment is still low. Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to find a biomarker with high sensitivity and specificity. The diagnostic value of serum procalcitonin (PCT) for PJI was systematically evaluated to provide the theoretical basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment in this study.MethodsWe searched the Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and PubMed for studies that evaluated the diagnostic value of serum PCT for PJI (from the inception of each database until September 2020). Two authors independently screened the literature according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of each selected literature was evaluated by using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool (QUADAS-2) tool. RevMan 5.3 software was used for the quality evaluation. The sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were merged by using Meta-DiSc 1.4 software. The area under the curve (AUC) and Q index were calculated after the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) was generated. We also performed subgroup analysis.ResultsA total of 621 patients were enrolled in the nine studies. The pooled sensitivity of serum PCT for PJI diagnosis was 0.441 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.384–0.500], the pooled specificity was 0.852 (95% CI, 0.811–0.888), the pooled PLR was 2.271 (95% CI, 1.808–2.853), the pooled NLR was 0.713 (95% CI, 0.646–0.786), and the pooled DOR was 5.756 (95% CI, 3.673–9.026). The area under SROC (the pooled AUC) was 0.76 (0.72–0.79). Q index was 0.6948.ConclusionThis study showed that PCT detection of PJI had poor diagnostic accuracy. Hence, the serum PCT is not suitable as a serum marker for PJI diagnosis.
Derotational distal femur osteotomy with medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction can get good outcomes in the treatment of recurrent patellar dislocation with excessive TT-TG and increased femoral anteversion
Authors: Huo Zhenhui , Hao Kuo , Fan Chongyi , Niu Yingzhen , Bai Haotian , Bai Weixia 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundSurgery is the main treatment for recurrent patellar dislocation (PD). However, due to the complexity of anatomical factors, there is still a lack of consensus on the choice of combined surgical methods. This study aimed to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction combined with derotational distal femur osteotomies (MPFLR + DDFO) and combined with tibial tubercle osteotomies (MPFLR + TTO) for recurrent PD with increased femoral anteversion angles (FAA) and excessive tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance.MethodsIn this retrospective analysis, MPFLR + DDFO and MPFLR + TTO patients from 2015 to 2020 were included. Group A (MPFLR + DDFO, n = 42) and B (MPFLR + TTO, n = 46) were formed. Clinical outcomes included physical examinations, functional outcomes (Kujala, Lysholm, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), visual analog scale (VAS) and intermittent and persistent osteoarthritis pain scale (ICOAP), Tegner scores), and complications. The Caton-Deschamps index (CD-I), patellar title angle, patellar congruence angle, patella-trochlear groove distance, TT-TG distance, and FAA were used to assess radiological outcomes.ResultsAll clinical outcomes improved significantly in both groups, but Group A had significantly better postoperative scores than Group B (Kujala: 89.8 ± 6.4 vs. 82.9 ± 7.4, P &lt; 0.01; Lysholm: 90.9 ± 5.1 vs. 81.3 ± 6.3, P = 0.02; IKDC: 87.3 ± 9.0 vs. 82.7 ± 8.0, P &lt; 0.01; Tegner: 6.0 (5.0, 9.0) vs. 5.0 (4.0, 8.0), P = 0.01). However, there was no significant difference in the VAS and ICOAP scores between the two groups. No dislocation recurrences occurred. Radiological outcomes improved significantly in both groups, but Group A had better outcomes. After surgery, the patellar height of 88.5% (23/26) patients in Group A and 82.8% (24/29) patients in Group B was restored to normal (the Caton-Deschamps index &lt;1.2).ConclusionsBoth MPFLR + TTO and MPFLR + DDFO obtained satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes in the treatment of recurrent PD with increased FAA and excessive TT-TG. However, the outcomes of MPFLR + DDFO were better and should be considered a priority. MPFLR + TTO may be not necessary for such patients.
Boundedness of Solutions for an Attraction–Repulsion Model with Indirect Signal Production
Authors: Wu Jie , Huang Yujie 
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we consider the following two-dimensional chemotaxis system of attraction–repulsion with indirect signal production 𝜕tu=Δu−∇·χ1u∇v1+∇·(χ2u∇v2),x∈R2,t>0,0=Δvj−λjvj+w,x∈R2,t>0,(j=1,2),𝜕tw+δw=u,x∈R2,t>0,u(0,x)=u0(x),w(0,x)=w0(x),x∈R2, where the parameters χi≥0, λi>0(i=1,2) and non-negative initial data (u0(x),w0(x))∈L1(R2)∩L∞(R2). We prove the global bounded solution exists when the attraction is more dominant than the repulsion in the case of χ1≥χ2. At the same time, we propose that when the radial solution satisfies χ1−χ2≤2πδ∥u0∥L1(R2)+∥w0∥L1(R2), the global solution is bounded. During the proof process, we found that adding indirect signals can constrict the blow-up of the global solution.
New approaches and technologies of staffing state civil service
Authors: Бойко А.Н. , Барменкова Н.А. 
Published: April 2024

Предметная область исследования — совершенствование кадровой работы в части обеспечения качественного отбора, найма и должностного роста государственных гражданских служащих, а также лиц, замещающих государственные должности. Цель работы — обоснование дополнительных квалификационных требований к соискателям и кадровым государственным служащим, соответственно — изменения правового порядка формирования и профессионального развития кадрового потенциала государственной гражданской службы. Проанализированы необходимые и реально принимаемые меры федеральной исполнительной властью с использованием современных цифровых технологий, включая возможности искусственного интеллекта.
The subject area of the research is the improvement of personnel work in terms of ensuring the quality selection, hiring and career development of state civil servants and persons holding public positions. The purpose of the work is to substantiate additional qualification requirements for applicants and career civil servants, respectively, to change the legal procedure for the formation and professional development of the personnel potential of the state civil service. The necessary and actually taken measures by the federal executive power using modern digital technologies, including the capabilities of artificial intelligence, are analyzed.
REFLEKSI PEMILU SERENTAK 2024 DALAM PERPEKTIF HUKUM EKONOMI, DAN SOSIAL
Authors: Luhukay Roni Sulistyanto 
Published: April 2024

Pemilu merupakan pesta demokrasi yang bersumber dari rakyat di berikan pada rakyat dan di perunthkan untuk rakyat, pemilu serentak selain dapat melakukan penghematan anggaran, mengurangi angka golput serta mencegah konflik horizontal juga berimplikasi dari aspek ekonomi dan sosial, dimana seringkali setiap masuk musim pemilu dari sisi ekomoni investasi dan arah pembangunan menjadi berubah dan terbengkalai dengan calon pemimpin yang baru, adanya wacana menghidupkan GBHN kembali dalam Merekonstruksikan kembali arah pembangunan bangsa akan potensi Merusak sistem presidensial di Indonesia, Melawan arus sejarah, Memperburuk kinerja parlemen, melawan arah pembangunan berkelanjutan dan serta mengapaikan konsep partisipasi masyarakat atau publik dalam pemerintahan yang selama ini di bangun. tidak hanya itu pemilu serentak ini juga membawa ancama baru terhadap petugas KPPS dimana fakta empiris 2019 lebih dari 894 orang meninggal serta 5.175 orang sakit. Selain itu Problematika Pemilu serentak 2024 yang tidak bersih berdampak pada tujuan tertentu, hal ini di tunjukan dengan paslon yang sering kali tersandra dengan kepentingan tertentu dalam setiap pencalonannya, mahar politik yang tinggi seringkali membuat paslon tidak berdaya. Serta yang terakhir Merefleksikan pelaksanaan pemilu kali ini tidak banyak diminati oleh masyarakat sebab Hegemoni kekuasaan terus berlanjut sehingga tidak adanya terobosan baru dalam pembangunan hukum berpotensi tidak adanya sirkulasi elit dalam menjalankan fungsi legislasi di pusat dan daerah.
Les arts à l’école : des politiques éducatives contradictoires
Authors: Bonnéry Stéphane 
Published: April 2024

De longue date assurée dans les « enseignements artistiques », la place des arts à l’école est à la fois complétée et concurrencée par l’EAC (éducation artistique et culturelle), moins définie parce que renvoyée à l’action locale et partenariale. L’article retrace l’élaboration des politiques croissantes, enchevêtrées et contradictoires, ainsi que de leurs traductions dans les pratiques pour interroger les logiques d’arrière-plan et leurs effets.
Conception des curricula dans les formations professionnelles secondaires
Authors: Veillard Laurent 
Published: April 2024

Comment sont définis les objectifs et contenus de formation et leurs modalités de transmission dans les formations professionnelles secondaires ? Par la suite, comment ces prescriptions sont-elles utilisées par les enseignants pour concevoir des situations concrètes de formation dans les établissements (lycées professionnels) ? Cet article propose d’éclairer le lecteur sur ces questions à partir de quelques recherches menées dans des perspectives didactiques et sociologiques. Une première partie est consacrée à des études qui se sont penchées sur les pratiques d’élaboration des référentiels de diplômes professionnels. Ces documents donnent une idée de la dimension prescrite des curricula et des tensions ou contradictions qui les traversent. La seconde propose un aperçu de recherches portant sur les situations de formation mises en place par les enseignants dans les établissements (curricula réels).