bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Cross-Sectional Study to Evaluate the Alteration of Cytokine Expression and Activation of Inflammatory Pathway in Response to NOD1 and NOD2 Signal in Leprosy
Authors: Hasanoor Reja Abu Hena , De Abhishek , Chakraborty Disha , Ahmed Sk. S. , Sarda Aarti 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Leprae bacilli are identified as foreign by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) present in the microbes but absent in the host. The Nucleotide oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor (NLR) family comprises the nucleotide-binding oligomerisation domain (NOD1 and NOD2) proteins, which are two well-known PRRs. The objectives of this study were to study the expression of cytoplasmic NOD1 and NOD2 in the pathogenesis of leprosy and the serum level of expressed cytokines and to measure the messenger Ribonucleic Acid (mRNA) expression.

Methods:
Clinically suspected Hansen’s patients were analysed for 4 years. Newly diagnosed leprosy patients were considered leprosy disease control (LDC). The cases with active or new lesions and an increase in Bacteriological index (BI) by at least 2 + after 12 months of completion of Multidrug therapy (MDT) were considered leprosy disease relapse (LDR) cases. Age- and sex-matched healthy individuals served as our control group (healthy control (HC)). enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to measure the concentration of five human cytokines in serum, including three pro-inflammatory cytokines (Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and IL-6), one anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) and one chemokine (IL-8). Quantitative expression of receptor genes (NOD1 and NOD2) and cytokine genes (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-8) was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (qRT-PCR). We studied NOD1 and NOD2 expression in the tissues through fluorescence immunohistochemistry. Differential NLR intracellular expression on peripheral blood monocytes (PBMs) and their response to stimulation with specific ligands (lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and muramyl dipeptide (MDP)) were studied.

Results:
A significant difference in the expression of the NOD1 gene was observed in unstimulated monocytes of the LDC and LDR cases when compared to HC. The NOD2 transcript level was significantly higher in stimulated monocytes from LDC and LDR patients than in similarly stimulated cells from HC. The LDC patients had a significantly higher level of pro-inflammatory cytokines as compared to the HC.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this study has demonstrated the expression of both cytokines and chemokines in response to NLR activation in the skin of leprosy patients.
An Observational Study of Dermoscopic and Histopathological Correlation in Spongiotic Disorders - A Hospital Based Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Bhatt Mansi M. , Jamale Varsha , Hussain Asma A. , Ankad Balachandra S. , Nikam Balkrishna P. , Kale Mohan , Shelke Snehal S. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Spongiosis is defined as intercellular edema and vesicles in the epidermis. Histopathology is the gold standard for the diagnosis of spongiotic disorders. Clinical diagnosis of eczema is sometimes unclear and confused with other dermatoses; histopathology often shows spongiotic tissue reaction patterns; such conditions are called spongiotic disorders. It is challenging for a dermatologist to make the correct diagnosis noninvasively with a dermoscope and thus we have taken up the study to correlate the dermoscopic and histopathological findings in spongiotic disorders to set dermoscopic criteria for the diagnosis.

Objective:
To study the dermoscopic features of spongiotic disorders and correlate clinical, dermoscopic, and histopathological findings.

Materials and Methods:
Two hundred fifty two patients, with history and clinical presentation suggesting eczema were enrolled. They were classified as Acute (<6 weeks), Subacute (6 weeks to 3 months), and Chronic (>3 months) eczemas based on duration. Dermoscopy and skin biopsy were performed on representative lesions. Data were compiled and statistically analyzed using frequency distribution and Chi-square test.

Results:
We correlated the diagnosis based on acute, subacute, and chronic with three modalities, clinical examination, dermoscopy, and histopathology. On clinical examination, acute (27.4%), subacute (42.9%), and chronic (29.7%) dermatitis. On dermoscopy, acute (28.5%), subacute (40.4%), and chronic (31.1%) dermatitis. On histopathology, acute (29.5%), subacute (44.2%), and chronic (26.3%) spongiosis. A positive correlation of 99%, 96.2%, and 95% was observed on dermoscopy and histopathology, in acute, subacute, and chronic eczemas, respectively. Dermoscopy of acute eczemas showed linear vessels (100%) and red background (100%). White-Clods (98.9%) and excoriation marks (70.1%). Dermoscopy of subacute eczemas showed white scales (99.1%), irregular pigment network (98.3%), vascular changes with irregular dots (97.4%), a brown-white background (93.1%), and black/brown/grey dots (91.4%). Dermoscopy of chronic eczema showed brown-white background (100%), irregular pigment network (100%), and black/brown/grey blotches (100%).

Conclusion:
Definitive dermoscopic patterns are observed consistently with spongiotic diseases and these can be used additionally to set dermoscopic criteria and confirm the diagnosis. Also, dermoscopic findings are well correlated with the already established histopathological features.
Evaluation of Clinical, Hormonal and Ultrasound Parameters of Male Reproductive System in Leprosy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hegde Manasa , Kanathur Shilpa , Shanmukhappa Asha G. , Srinivas MR 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives:
Testicular involvement in leprosy is neglected as it is insidious and silent, although it can have an impact on quality of life. Our study aimed at evaluating and estimating the frequency of the hormonal, radiological and clinical parameters in these patients.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted including 31 male leprosy patients attending our OPD. After detailed clinical assessment, patients were subjected to ultrasonological with Doppler examination of the scrotum and hormonal evaluation by ELISA technique for serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH) and total testosterone.

Results:
Thirty-one patients were included with ages ranging from 19 to 54 with a mean of 34 years. Decreased libido (19.3%) was significantly observed in the abnormal FSH (P < 0.01) and testosterone (P < 0.01) groups. The majority of the clinical findings such as erectile dysfunction, infertility and altered pubic hair pattern were seen in the lepromatous spectrum. Six (19.6%) patients had increased LH and FSH. Twenty-three (74%) had testicular atrophy (<12 ml) as assessed by USG. There was a significant association between the bilateral decreased testicular volumes (TVs) and FSH (P = 0.016 on the left and P < 0.01 on the right). Four of 31 patients had altered testicular echo texture of which two belong to the BL spectrum. The increase in the resistive index (RI) corresponded significantly to the decreased TV (P < 0.01) albeit on the left side only.

Conclusion:
A sizeable proportion (74%) of the study sample had testicular atrophy. The significant association between increased RI and testicular atrophy, especially in patients with infertility, emphasises the ancillary role of Doppler indices in methodical diagnosis. Risk factors noted in the study include increased bacillary index, delayed initiation of treatment and recurrent ENL. Early detection, early initiation of MDT and specific therapies such as testosterone replacement can help improve the quality of life.
Harnessing the Power of Artificial Intelligence in Dermatology: A Comprehensive Commentary
Authors: Kololgi Shreyas P. , Lahari CS 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
This special article provides a comprehensive commentary on the significant role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of dermatology. It explores the potential of AI in various aspects of dermatologic practice, including diagnosis, treatment planning, research and patient management. The article discusses the current state of AI in dermatology, its challenges and the ethical considerations surrounding its implementation. It highlights the transformative impact of AI on dermatologic care and offers insights into the future directions of AI in the field.
Risk of Nephritis and Recurrence in Kimura Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhang Caiyun , Chen Jun , Hui Yun , Chen Huan , Deng Dequan , Sang Hong , Liu Fang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background:
Kimura disease (KD) presents a diagnostic challenge to clinicians because of its rarity and atypical symptoms in its early stages, and it is difficult to treat and prone to recurrence or involvement of other organs.

Aims and Objectives:
This study aims to investigate the possible relevance of renal involvement and recurrence by analysing the clinical presentations, laboratory results, histopathological features, therapeutic data and follow-up results of KD.

Materials and Methods:
A total of 27 patients diagnosed as KD in two hospitals from January 1999 to December 2021 were analysed retrospectively in this study based on the diagnosis of histopathology.

Results:
KD mainly affected male more than female (8:1) with the onset age ranging from 3 to 58 years (median 29.8 years). The common initial symptoms included subcutaneous soft tissue or lymph node enlargement, non-specific skin lesions and proteinuria. One patient presented cough and expectoration as the first symptoms. KD patients often had high levels of serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) and basophils, which exhibited a significantly positive correlation with renal involvement and recurrence (p < 0.05). Early mass resection could prevent the development of nephritis and decrease the risk of relapse (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:
KD should be noted in patients presenting with intractable and relapsing atopic skin lesions and (or) subcutaneous mass. Patients with high levels of serum IgE and blood basophils may be prone to developing KD-associated nephritis and predict a high risk of recurrence. Early surgical removal of the mass may result in a better prognosis.
ERK/MEK Pathway Regulates Th17 Cell Differentiation in Patients with Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Han Kai , Li Song-Shan , Pan Wen , Xu Mei-Nian , Zhong Mei-Zhen , Zhang Wen-Jing , Huang Xiao-Wen , Zeng Kang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background:
T helper (Th) cells are involved in the pathogenesis of pemphigus vulgaris (PV). However, the mechanism still needs more exploration.

Aims:
This study aimed to evaluate the molecular mechanism of the dysregulation of Th17 cells in the peripheral blood of patients with PV.

Materials and Methods:
Serum levels of IL-17 and anti-Dsg3 titres in patients with PV were analysed using ELISA. The mRNA expression of retinoic acid orphan receptor γt (RORγt) in CD4+ T cells was detected using reverse transcription–quantitative PCR (qPCR). The number of Th17 cells was examined using flow cytometry. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescent staining were also performed to investigate the expression levels of ERK/MAPK signalling proteins and Th17 lineage-associated proteins.

Results:
The proportion of Th17 cells and Th17 spectrum-associated proteins (p-STAT3, RORγt and IL-17) were upregulated in CD4+ cells in PV patients. The increased transcriptional levels of RORγt and IL-17 correlated positively with the severity of PV. Elevated phosphorylation of the ERK signalling factors was found in the collected CD4+ T cells in PV patients. The inhibition of the ERK signalling pathway significantly reduced the differentiation of Th17 cells in PV patients in vitro.

Conclusion:
Th17 cells are essential in the dysregulation of PV, and ERK signalling is involved in Th17-type immunity and promotes the development of PV. The study here provides us with a potential therapeutic target for PV.
An update on the ocular manifestations of dengue
Authors: Wang Christina , Castillo Arturo , Cortes-Bejarano Federico , Lopez Eduardo , de Souza Eduardo Cunha , Wu Lihteh 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Dengue is the most common arboviral disease. It is typically spread by the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Dengue is endemic in subtropical and tropical regions, but its geographic reach keeps expanding. Ophthalmic manifestations of dengue are common and may present with a wide spectrum of ophthalmic findings. These may range from conjunctival petechiae, retinal hemorrhage, retinal vasculitis to panophthalmitis. Some of these may be vision threatening and may require urgent ophthalmic evaluation. The precise pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in dengue infection involve a complex interplay between host immune responses, virus, and host genes. There is no specific treatment for ocular dengue. Therefore, treatment is supportive. Despite the lack of proven efficacy, corticosteroids have been used in vision-threatening dengue-related ocular complications. Dengue must be considered in endemic areas, and a careful travel history needs to be elicited in nonendemic areas.
Resurgence of orbital mucormycosis during COVID-19 pandemic: Study from a tertiary care center in Eastern India
Authors: Chakraborty Soumen , Satty Satish Reddy , Sahu Badal Kumar , Ray Soumya 
Published: January 2024

Abstract:

PURPOSE:
A sudden surge of Mucormycosis cases during the second wave of Covid 19 was observed in certain parts of India. The reasons for this upsurge remain unknown. However its impact on the overall healthcare system was quite overwhelming. In this context this study was decided to estimate and assess the spectrum of orbital involvement in patients with Mucormycosis, to find its association with coexisting disease entities if any, and at the same time evaluate the therapeutic response to established treatment regimens.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
This descriptive longitudinal study was conducted over a period of six months. Patients presenting with symptoms of Mucormycosis were jointly evaluated by a multi speciality team. After confirmation of diagnosis, patients were treated with intravenous Amphotericin B, surgical debridement of affected sinuses and orbital exenteration when indicated. They were followed up for three months after discharge.

RESULTS:
Forty-three patients were enrolled in this study. Thirty-seven (86.04%) were COVID positive. All of them had history of steroid exposure during COVID treatment. Ninety five percent of study participants had diabetes mellitus. Twenty-seven (62.79%) patients had orbital involvement. Most common clinical presentation was peri-orbital or facial pain and edema. Besides medical treatment, thirty-nine patients (90.69%) required sinus debridement and nine patients (20.9%) required orbital exenteration. Thirteen patients (30.23%) expired during the follow up period. With treatment disease regressed in twenty patients (46.51%).

CONCLUSION:
Diabetes and use of steroids to prevent anticipated cytokine storm may be the inciting factors for Orbital Mucormycosis in COVID patients. Early diagnosis, treatment and control of risk factors are keys for recovery and survival..
Key performance indicators-based monitoring, measuring progress and ranking of Aspirational Districts
Authors: Gautam Amit Kumar , Kumar Yadav Yogesh 
Published: January 2024

The Aspirational District Program (ADP) is an effort to transform those districts which are lacking in development. It focuses on each district's strengths, identifies areas for quick development, and tracks advancement by rating districts regularly. By competing with and learning from others in the spirit of competitive & cooperative federalism, districts are pushed and encouraged to first catch up with the best district within their state, and then aim to become one of the best in the nation. The government's "Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas aur Sabka Vishwas" initiative aims to improve residents' quality of life while promoting inclusive growth. The ADP fundamentally aims to localise the Sustainable Development Goals, resulting in national advancement. In this paper we have described the delta rankings, Key performance Indicators (KPI) and the effects on development of aspirational districts. The delta ranking of the Aspirational Districts combines the innovative use of data with pragmatic administration, keeping the district at the locus of inclusive development.
Pengaruh Pinjaman Online terhadap Gaya Hidup Mahasiswa Akuntansi di Kabupaten Sidoarjo
Authors: Sugiarto Bagus Bachrul Salam 
Published: January 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis Pengaruh Pinjaman Online Terhadap Gaya Hidup Mahasiswa Akuntansi Di Kabupaten Sidoarjo. Metode pengambilan sampel yang digunakan adalah menggunakan perhitungan Rumus Slovin. Selain itu, Peneliti membuat kriteria tertentu siapa yang dijadikan sebagai responden. Kriteria responden yang akan diteliti adalah mahasiswa yang berada di Kabupaten Sidoarjo dan menggunakan Pinjaman Online. Sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah 95 Responden. Data yang digunakan adalah data primer. Metode analisis data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Regresi Linear Berganda dengan SPSS 25. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa Pinjaman Online Terhadap Gaya Hidup. Pinjol adalah bagian dari inovasi di sektor keuangan atau sering disebut juga fintech. Syarat yang begitu mudah untuk mendapatkan akses pinjaman keuangan, membuat berbagai lapisan masyarakat dapat terbantu dengan modal segar dari lembaga penyedia, termasuk di kalangan mahasiswa sekalipun. Bahkan, dengan kemudahan akses pada pinjaman online sering kali pinjol dianggap “kartu kredit” bagi mahasiswa. Dengan adanya kemudahan pinjaman ini maka akan meningkatkan gaya hidup masyarakat.
Desafíos y soluciones para la efectiva incorporacion de cláusulas sociales a la contratación pública
Authors: GORDO CANO DIANA 
Published: January 2024

El trabajo analiza la importancia de la compra socialmente responsable
desde la perspectiva práctica de la validez de los contratos en que se incorpora.
En particular, se trata de analizar el impacto que la inclusión de cláusulas o
criterios sociales van a tener en estos contratos y se ofrecen pautas prácticas para
incluirlas según la fase del contrato en la que se introduzcan. Se estudian especialmente
las limitaciones que los tribunales administrativos de recursos contractuales
imponen a estas cláusulas y la inseguridad que se ha generado, así como
propuestas de solución al respecto.
Sozialki arduratsua den erosketaren garrantzia aztertzen du lan
honek, ikuspegi praktiko hau oinarri hartuta: erosketa mota hori txertatzen duten
kontratuen baliozkotasuna. Zehazki, kontratu horietan klausula edo irizpide
sozialak txertatzeak zer eragin izango duen aztertu nahi da, eta horiek txertatzeko
jarraibide praktikoak eskaintzen dira, kontratuaren zein fasetan sartuko diren
kontuan hartuta. Kontratu-errekurtsoen administrazio auzitegiek klausula horiei
ezartzen dizkieten mugak eta sortu den segurtasun eza aztertu dira bereziki, eta
konponbide-proposamen batzuk eskaintzen dira.
The paper analyzes the importance of socially responsible public
procurement from the practical perspective of the validity of the contracts in
which they are incorporated. In particular, the aim is to analyze the impact that
the inclusion of social clauses or criteria shall have on these contracts and there
are provided practical guidelines for their inclusion depending on the stage of
the contract at which they are introduced. In particular, the limitations imposed
on these clauses by the administrative tribunals for contractual remedies and the
uncertainty that has arisen, as well as proposed solutions, are examined.
ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING SATISFACTION WITH USING THE MOBILE LAPOR APPLICATION IN INDONESIA
Authors: Wijaya Theresa Karyn 
Published: January 2024

The rapid digital growth in Indonesia has prompted the government to leverage digital-based services to address the needs and concerns of its citizens. In this context, the LAPOR (People's Online Aspiration and Complaints Service) mobile application and website have been established as a means for Indonesians to voice complaints, aspirations, and requests for information to government agencies. However, user satisfaction with the LAPOR application has been suboptimal, as evidenced by user ratings and comments on platforms such as Playstore and AppStore. This research aims to identify the factors influencing user satisfaction with the LAPOR mobile application in Indonesia. The study focuses on variables including ease of use, security privacy, system quality, speed of platform response, and attitude toward use. The research methodology involves primary data collection through the distribution of questionnaires via Google Form to Indonesian users residing in specific regions. The validity and reliability of the research are ensured through rigorous testing of dependent, independent, and intervening variables. The findings of the research highlight the significant influence of security privacy on system quality, ease of use on user satisfaction, and system quality on ease of use. These results provide valuable insights for the government of Indonesia to enhance the effectiveness of the LAPOR system in addressing public complaints and aspirations. By addressing these factors, the government can improve user satisfaction and engagement with the LAPOR mobile application, ultimately leading to more effective public service delivery and citizen engagement.
Keywords:
Mobile Application, User Satisfaction, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Public Complaints, Indonesia Public Service Delivery
Recidiva ou reação reversa?
Authors: Opromolla Diltor V.A. 
Published: January 2024

É descrito o caso de uma mulher de 88 anos, portadora de hanseníase BT que foi internada no Instituto "Lauro de Souza Lima", apresentando grandes placas eritematosas em todo o corpo que apareceram abruptamente. Ela, em 1935, já havia sido internada neste Instituto apresentando um quadro semelhante, menos intenso e que desapareceu espontâneamente em 2 anos. Na primeira vez puderam ser demonstrados bacilos somente em uma pun cão de linfonodo, mas no segundo surto foram visto bacilos em todas as lesões. Em ambas as ocasiões o exame histopatológico das lesões revelou a presença de granulomas tuberculoides. Geralmente este tipo de fenômeno reacional tem uma duração de vários meses e o intervalo entre um e outro pode oscilar entre dois a tres meses até uns poucos anos(cinco anos em um caso descrito por Wade). Em nosso caso o intervalo entre os dois surtos reacionais foi extremamente longo, 40 anos.Achamos dificil admitir que o too de fenômeno reacional descrito seja devido a uma rein fecção, devido ao too de lesões observadas e o aparecimento de algumas delas junto ao local das lesões regredidas do primeiro surto. Consideramos mais provável que o aparecimento do segundo surto neste caso, está relacionado com a multiplicação de bacilos persistentes que foram destruidos pelo sistema imune, liberando antígenos que desencadearam uma reação de hipersensibilidade retardada cuja expressão clínica foram as lesões cutâneas reacionaisisso poderia explicar qualquer outro surto agudo rotulado como reação reversa que ocorra antes, durante ou após a interrupção da terapêutica. Desta maneira não haveria necessidade em diferenciar reação reversa de recidiva após o término do tratamento e seria então importante reavaliar o real efeito da quimioterapia nesses casos reacionais.