Research Institute Research Articles

Master resilience trainer course quality improvement evaluation.

The Master Resilience Training (MRT) course is the U.S. Army's resilience program of record to develop soldiers as resilience trainers within their home units. The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) recently conducted an MRT Quality Improvement Evaluation (QIE) to understand perceptions of the MRT course, determine the effectiveness of the course, and provide revision recommendations for the next iteration of the course. Soldiers who were completing the MRT course were invited to take surveys and participate in interviews. Results from quantitative and qualitative data suggest that most participants felt satisfied with the training and that it was relevant for soldiers. Most participants also agreed that the training would help them become better soldiers and leaders. Along with positive feedback about the course, participants also identified areas that could be improved. Soldier feedback along with program evaluators' observation informed recommendations for improving the overall MRT course and its implementation. Program evaluators recommend MRT participants learn fewer and less complex skills, focus on coach education throughout the course, and highlight leader development by promoting motivation and enhancing effective communication. Program evaluators recommendations for ways to improve buy-in from leaders and graduated MRTs are also discussed.

Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications: next-generation energy storage and 5G technology for enhanced connectivity and energy solutions

Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications involves leveraging next-generation energy storage and 5G technology to enhance connectivity and energy solutions. This review explores the intersection of these two domains, highlighting the importance of advancements in energy storage and 5G technology for a sustainable and connected future. Energy storage is crucial for balancing the supply and demand of electricity in modern power systems. Traditional energy storage methods, such as batteries and pumped hydro, have limitations in terms of scalability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Next-generation energy storage technologies, including advanced batteries, hydrogen storage, and thermal storage, offer promising solutions to overcome these limitations. These technologies enable efficient energy storage at scale, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind into the grid. By storing excess energy generated during periods of low demand, next-generation energy storage systems ensure a reliable and stable power supply, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In parallel, the evolution of telecommunications technology, particularly the advent of 5G networks, is revolutionizing connectivity and communication. 5G technology offers significantly higher data transfer speeds, lower latency, and increased network capacity compared to its predecessors. These capabilities are essential for supporting emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous vehicles, and smart grids. With 5G-enabled IoT devices, utilities can monitor energy consumption in real-time, optimize grid operations, and detect and respond to faults more efficiently. Moreover, 5G connectivity enhances the efficiency and reliability of energy storage systems by enabling seamless communication between distributed energy resources and grid operators. The convergence of next-generation energy storage and 5G technology presents numerous opportunities for driving innovation in both energy and telecommunications sectors. One of the key areas of innovation is the development of smart energy storage systems equipped with 5G connectivity. These systems can autonomously adjust their operation based on grid conditions, weather forecasts, and energy demand patterns, optimizing energy storage and distribution in real-time. Furthermore, advanced energy management algorithms leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms can optimize energy usage and storage, further improving the efficiency and reliability of the grid. Another area of innovation lies in the integration of renewable energy resources with 5G-enabled microgrids. Microgrids are localized energy systems that can operate independently or in conjunction with the main grid. By combining renewable energy sources with energy storage and 5G-enabled communication, microgrids can provide reliable, clean, and resilient power to remote or urban areas. These microgrids can also facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading, allowing consumers to buy and sell excess energy within their communities, fostering energy independence and sustainability. Furthermore, advancements in battery technology, such as solid-state batteries and flow batteries, are enhancing the performance and reliability of energy storage systems. Solid-state batteries offer higher energy density, faster charging rates, and improved safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Flow batteries, on the other hand, provide scalability and long-duration storage capabilities, making them suitable for grid-scale applications. Integrating these advanced battery technologies with 5G-enabled monitoring and control systems enhances the overall resilience and flexibility of the energy infrastructure. In addition to technological advancements, driving innovation in energy and telecommunications requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including policymakers, regulators, industry players, and research institutions. Policies and regulations should incentivize the deployment of next-generation energy storage and 5G infrastructure, promote interoperability standards, and ensure data privacy and security. Public-private partnerships can facilitate the investment and deployment of innovative solutions, while research and development initiatives can spur further technological advancements. Driving innovation in energy and telecommunications through next-generation energy storage and 5G technology is essential for building a sustainable, connected, and resilient future. By leveraging advanced energy storage systems, smart grids, and 5G-enabled communication networks, we can optimize energy usage, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the reliability and efficiency of our energy infrastructure. Collaboration and investment across various sectors are key to unlocking the full potential of these transformative technologies and achieving a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. Keywords: Innovation, Energy, Telecommunications, Next-Generation, 5G technology, Enhanced connectivity.

PROJECT OF A DASHBOARD FOR BRAZILIAN CENTERS AFFILIATED WITH CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL BLOOD AND MARROW RESEARCH

Since the first hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) was performed at the Federal University Hospital (Curitiba, PR) in 1979, the number of centers offering this modality of treatment has increased. However, accessing comprehensive HSCT outcomes has become a challenge due to lack of an official Brazilian registry. The partnership between the Brazilian Cellular Therapy and Bone Marrow Transplant Society (SBTMO) and the Center for International Blood and Marrow Research (CIBMTR) was an important milestone in the establishment of the HSCT Brazilian registry (HSCTBR). By using CIBMTR’s Data Back to Center (DBtC) tool, we have gained insights into HSCT outcomes through the Brazilian Summary Slides. While understanding the country's transplant scenario is crucial, it is equally important for each center to assess their own outcomes. In order to help the Brazilian centers with the CIBMTR, the data manager of SBTMO working group has developed a business tool solution to facilitate this important task.

CURRENT USE AND OUTCOMES OF HEMATOPOIETIC STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION: BRAZILIAN SUMMARY SLIDES – 2024

The development of the Brazilian Registry of Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation in collaboration with the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) allowed for an assessment of the activity and general outcomes of transplants in Brazil. Here, we report an updated activity. Brazilian transplant centers report their data to the CIBMTR, using the FormsNet3 platform. Information returns to Brazilian Cellular Therapy and Bone Marrow Transplant Society (SBTMO) through the Data Back to Centers (DBtC) tool. Data from patients who received an HCT from 2012 to 2023 from Brazilian centers were extracted from CIBMTR. Descriptive analysis was carried out by patient-, disease- and transplant-specific variables and overall survival analysis using Kaplan Meyer. A total of 12,230 patients were eligible for this study (5,573 autologous and 6,657 allogeneic transplants). The number of reporting centers increased from 40 to 44 during the period. The most common HCT indication in Brazil is AML for allogeneic HCT with 152 transplants year and multiple myeloma for autologous HCT with 245 transplants per year. Among allogeneic HCT, in the last 4 years, mismatched related donor was the main source of donors. Regarding the graft source for allogeneic transplants, BM was the most frequent among pediatric transplants, while PBSC was the most used in adults. Infections were the leading cause of death in the first 100 days after all types of transplants. Patients with acute leukemia who underwent HCT with advanced stage disease had lower survival rates compared to those at other stages. Despite the differences in the number of cases and follow-up time, the results in this study were similar to those presented in the United States (US) Summary Slides.

Water use and yield response of rainfed safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) in Vertisols with varying soil depths

AbstractSafflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is an edible oilseed crop mainly cultivated in marginal lands. This study evaluates safflower crop water requirements to understand its feasibility to cultivate under rainfed ecosystem through a field experiment undertaken at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semiarid Tropics research farm, India. Eight improved and stress‐tolerant safflower cultivars (five spiny and three non‐spiny) were evaluated in Vertisols at three soil depths, that is, shallow: <0.60 m, medium: 0.60–1.20 m, and deep:1.20–1.80 m, over 3 years (2009–2012). Wet, normal, and deficit rainfall years were experienced during 2009/2010, 2010/2011, and 2011/2012, respectively. Soil moisture, crop yield, and growth parameters were measured, and field‐scale hydrology was captured through a calibrated one‐dimensional water balance model. Safflower responded to available residual soil moisture which varied with soil depth and rainfall received in different years. Total crop water use was 300–320 mm during the postrainy season, of which about 70% was extracted in deep Vertisols and 55% in medium Vertisols through residual soil moisture. In addition, 30% of water requirement was met through postrainy season rainfall. Safflower grown in shallow Vertisols could only meet 40% of crop water requirement. Spiny cultivar NARI‐H‐15 grown in deep soil recorded a maximum yield of 1890 kg ha−1 in the wet year. Seed yield from spiny cultivars grown in deep and medium soils was nearly similar (1500–1600 kg ha−1) during wet and normal years; a significant reduction in yield (>50%) occurred in shallow soils and also during a rainfall deficit year. Spiny cultivars produced 10%–50% higher seed yield compared to non‐spiny cultivars. Growing safflower in medium and deep Vertisols provides opportunities for crop intensification.

Exploring over a decade of systems engineering research center: A community detection and text analytics approach

AbstractThe Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC) is a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC) of the US Department of Defense (DoD) formed in 2008 with more than 20 collaborator universities in the United States. Over the last decade, SERC has conducted research with Principal Investigators from universities within the SERC network, as reflected in technical reports (TR). These reports describe detailed information and analysis of the conducted research for every project under SERC support, such as written records of experiments or results of a scientific project. We analyzed the TRs from 2009 to early 2023 to identify research streams, topics, and evolution in systems engineering (SE) research using text mining and network analysis techniques, such as Louvain Community Detection and word similarity. As a result, we identified four major research streams over a decade of research projects, along with insights about topics and the evolution of SE within this time frame. Finally, we distinguished most profile authors and their most significant collaborations and networks.

Leveraging machine learning for predicting acute graft-versus-host disease grades in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for T-cell prolymphocytic leukaemia

Orphan diseases, exemplified by T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia, present inherent challenges due to limited data availability and complexities in effective care. This study delves into harnessing the potential of machine learning to enhance care strategies for orphan diseases, specifically focusing on allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) in T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia. The investigation evaluates how varying numbers of variables impact model performance, considering the rarity of the disease. Utilizing data from the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, the study scrutinizes outcomes following allo-HCT for T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia. Diverse machine learning models were developed to forecast acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) occurrence and its distinct grades post-allo-HCT. Assessment of model performance relied on balanced accuracy, F1 score, and ROC AUC metrics. The findings highlight the Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) classifier achieving the highest testing balanced accuracy of 0.58 in predicting aGvHD. However, challenges arose in its performance during multi-class classification tasks. While affirming the potential of machine learning in enhancing care for orphan diseases, the study underscores the impact of limited data and disease rarity on model performance.

The forced battle between peer-review and scientometric research assessment: Why the CoARA initiative is unsound

Abstract Endorsed by the European Research Area, a Coalition for Advancing Research Assessment (CoARA), primarily composed of research institutions and funders, was established in 2022. Its mission is to reform research assessment, emphasizing a shift towards qualitative judgment. This study examines the CoARA initiative from theoretical, practical, and applicative perspectives, exploring its implications. The manuscript questions a standardized way to evaluate research suitable in every context. Through empirical evidence and internal logical arguments, it challenges the supremacy of qualitative over quantitative methods in terms of robustness, accuracy, validity, functionality, and time and cost convenience in STEMM research assessment. The aim is to clear up common misunderstandings and offer insights to policymakers and decision-makers in charge of defining how research should be evaluated.

Impact of Establishment Techniques and Weed Management Strategies on Chemical Properties of Soil in Wet Direct-seeded Winter Rice

Aim: The aim of the experiment was to check the effect of establishment techniques and weed management strategies on chemical properties of soil. Study Design: The design of the experiment was split plot design. Place and Duration of Study: Assam Agricultural University-Assam Rice Research Institute, Titabar, Assam, India, during the sali season of 2022-2023. Methodology: A total of three establishment techniques viz., broadcasting , drum seeding and line sowing in main plot and six different weed management practices namely hand weeding at 20, 40 and 60 DAS , pyrazosulfuron-ethyl @ 30 g/ha at 2 DAS fb bispyribac-Na @ 25 g/ha at 25 DAS, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl @ 30 g/ha at 2 DAS fb mechanical weeding at 40 and 60 DAS, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl @ 30 g/ha at 2 DAS fb bispyribac-Na @ 25 g/ha at 25 and 45 DAS , weed free check and weedy check in sub plot , respectively. Where DAS=Days after sowing and fb=followed by. Results: Results revealed that among various establishment techniques, drum seeding technique resulted in the lowest available nitrogen (237.87 kg/ha), phosphorus (21.67 kg/ha) and potassium (150.15 kg/ha) in the soil, respectively after harvest. Moreover, under various weed management practices, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl @ 30g/ha at 2 DAS fb bispyribac-Na @ 25 g/ha at 25 and 45 DAS showed lowest nitrogen (236.87 kg/ha), phosphorus (21.37 kg/ha) and potassium (149.23 kg/ha) in the soil, respectively after harvest which was next to weed free check. Conclusion: Combined application of drum seeding along with pyrazosulfuron-ethyl @ 30g/ha at 2 DAS fb bispyribac-Na @ 25 g/ha at 25 and 45 DAS can facilitate optimum plant population of crop with dense canopy cover, resulting in higher uptake of essential minerals and nutrients by the crop, enhancing the overall yield of rice while minimizing weed population throughout the growing period.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice of blood donation among paramedical students of a medical college in Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Blood donation is an essential global need far outweighs the available supply, rendering it a scarce and valuable resource. Within India, blood transfusion services hold significant importance and constitute a crucial aspect of the national health-care framework. Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donation (VNRBD) is deemed the safest among the various ways of donating blood. The student population of educational institutions across the country, particularly those who are young and physically fit, represents one of the most promising sources of blood donations. The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and donation practices of medical college students and motivate them to embrace voluntary blood donation as a regular habit. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The Department of Allied Health Science at Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, conducted a questionnaire survey from March 2023 to October 2023. Two thousand and two hundred forty students were invited to participate, with 2331 ultimately willing to partake. The gathered data underwent analysis using the SPSS Statistics software, version 20, with a significance level fixed at a P = 5%. RESULTS: The study included 2331 participants, comprising 840 males (36%) and 1491 females (64%). The age range of the participants was between 17 and 25 years, with a mean age of 18.9 ± 1.3 years. Out of 2331 participants, the majority (66.7%) showed sufficient knowledge with 9 or more correct answers, while the rest (33.2%) showed below-average knowledge. CONCLUSION: The Tamil Nadu Health Professions Colleges possess the potential to make a noteworthy impact on the promotion of blood donation. According to a recent survey, students express a keen interest in donating blood if a camp is organized on the campus. By organizing awareness campaigns and conducting informative sessions, the colleges can inspire and motivate more students to donate blood, thereby playing a vital role in saving lives.

Cervical cancer prevention in Burkina Faso: a stakeholder’s collaboration for the development of awareness messaging

BackgroundCervical Cancer stands as the second leading cause of both incident female cancers and deaths in Burkina Faso. Unfortunately, the prevention, early detection, and care of cervical cancers are suboptimal at individual, institutional, and national levels. In October 2023, we organized a stakeholder’s workshop to develop cervical cancer awareness messaging for disease control in the country.MethodsA one-text workshop was organized with stakeholders working toward improving health in general or women’s health and well-being. A participatory, learning, and adaptive approach was used to facilitate discussions and activities, ensuring the contribution of all participants. Contextual evidence-based and empirical elements about cervical cancer burden and preventive strategies were presented to the participants by key informants. These served as the foundation for a collaborative formulation of messaging content that aimed at raising awareness about cervical cancer.ResultsSixty-two participants from 28 organizations attended the workshop. They work mainly at local and international non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, universities, university hospitals, research centers, and the Ministry of Health. During the first and second days of the workshop, the participants explored cervical cancer data, its preventive and treatment options available in Burkina Faso, communication strategies for behavioral change, and determinants of the use of prevention and health promotion services. During the following three days, 3 working groups were formed to define strategies, and key messages adapted to diverse tools and targeted audiences. All information was validated during plenary sessions before the end of the workshop and available to all participants and their organizations for cancer awareness activities.ConclusionUpon conclusion of the workshop, the participants provided insightful information for the development of cervical awareness messaging in Burkina Faso. They formed the first community of practice to serve as a dynamic platform for implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and continued learning activities.

Evaluation of fecal sample collection methods for feline gut microbiome profiling: fecal loop vs. litter box

IntroductionMicrobial population structures within fecal samples are vital for disease screening, diagnosis, and gut microbiome research. The two primary methods for collecting feline fecal samples are: (1) using a fecal loop, which retrieves a rectal sample using a small, looped instrument, and (2) using the litter box, which collects stool directly from the litter. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages and is suitable for different research objectives.Methods and resultsWhole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing were performed on the gut microbiomes of fecal samples collected using these two methods from 10 adult cats housed in the same research facility. We evaluated the influence of collection methods on feline microbiome analysis, particularly their impact on DNA extraction, metagenomic sequencing yield, microbial composition, and diversity in subsequent gut microbiome analyses. Interestingly, fecal sample collection using a fecal loop resulted in a lower yield of microbial DNA compared to the litterbox method (p = 0.004). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the proportion of host contamination (p = 0.106), virus contamination (p = 0.232), relative taxonomy abundance of top five phyla (Padj > 0.638), or the number of microbial genes covered (p = 0.770). Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in alpha-diversity, beta-diversity, the number of taxa identified at each taxonomic level, and the relative abundance of taxonomic units.DiscussionThese two sample collection methods do not affect microbial population structures within fecal samples and collecting fecal samples directly from the litterbox within 6 hours after defecation can be considered a reliable approach for microbiome research.

Broken seniority symmetry in the semimagic proton mid-shell nucleus Rh95

Lifetime measurements of low-lying excited states in the semimagic (N=50) nucleus Rh95 have been performed by means of the fast-timing technique. The experiment was carried out using γ-ray detector arrays consisting of LaBr3(Ce) scintillators and germanium detectors integrated into the DESPEC experimental setup commissioned for the Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research () Phase-0, Darmstadt, Germany. The excited states in Rh95 were populated primarily via the β decays of Pd95 nuclei, produced in the projectile fragmentation of a 850 MeV/nucleon Xe124 beam impinging on a 4g/cm2Be9 target. The deduced electromagnetic E2 transition strengths for the γ-ray cascade within the multiplet structure depopulating from the isomeric Iπ=21/2+ state are found to exhibit strong deviations from predictions of standard shell model calculations which feature approximately conserved seniority symmetry. In particular, the observation of a strongly suppressed E2 strength for the 13/2+→9/2+ ground state transition cannot be explained by calculations employing standard interactions. This remarkable result may require revision of the nucleon-nucleon interactions employed in state-of-the-art theoretical model calculations, and might also point to the need for including three-body forces in the Hamiltonian. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Bibliometric and visualized analysis of global research on microRNAs in gastric cancer: from 2013 to 2023

Gastric cancer (GC) imposes a heavy burden on global public health, and microRNAs (miRNAs) play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of GC. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the hotspots and frontiers in the field of miRNAs in GC to guide future research. A total of 2,051 publications related to miRNAs in GC from January 2013 to December 2023 were searched from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace was used to identify research hotspots and delineate developmental trends. In the past decade, China, Nanjing Medical University, and Ba Yi were the most contributing research country, institute, and author in this field, respectively. The role of miRNAs as biomarkers in GC, the mechanism of miRNAs in the progression of GC, and the impact of the mutual effects between miRNAs and Helicobacter pylori on GC have been regarded as the research hotspots. The mechanisms of miRNAs on glucose metabolism and the application of the roles of circular RNAs as miRNA sponges in GC treatment will likely be frontiers. Overall, this study called for strengthened cooperation to identify targets and therapeutic regimes for local specificity and high-risk GC types, and to promote the translation of research results into clinical practice.

Non-metastatic primary neuroendocrine neoplasms of the breast: a reference cancer center’s experience of a heterogenous entity

BackgroundPrimary neuroendocrine neoplasms of the breast (Br-NENs) are rare. The classification has been updated in recent years making interpretation of the data published challenging. It is unclear whether neuroendocrine differentiation is associated with poorer prognosis and what treatment approaches should be applied.MethodsThe database for breast cancer patients treated between 2009 and 2022 at the Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology Branch Krakow was explored to search for Br-NENs. Patients’ medical and pathological data were collected and analyzed.ResultsWe included 22 females with Br-NEN without metastases at the time of diagnosis. The median age was 64 years (range: 28-88), Of the cases, 18 were hormone receptor positive, all were HER-2 negative, the median Ki67 was 27% (10-100%). The median tumor size at the time of diagnosis was 29.5mm (7-75mm), 9 patients were N-positive. DCIS was present in 5 cases. Only one case was negative for chromogranin and synaptophysin staining, but data were missing for 4 cases. Nine patients received adjuvant chemotherapy, mainly based on anthracyclines and taxanes, while 16 received adjuvant hormonal therapy and 15 received postoperative radiotherapy. Radical surgery was performed in all patients, but two underwent suboptimal tumorectomy. One patient had local recurrence, three experienced metastatic disease, all involving the lungs, but these patients are still alive. The median follow-up was 96 months (8–153). Two patients died, with a follow up time of no recurrence >4 years. Our results were compared to twelve case series collecting clinical data on Br-NENs, with median patient number of 10.5 (range: 3-142).ConclusionBr-NENs represent a heterogenous group of diseases, lacking data from prospective studies or clinical trials. There are no established treatment standards tailored for Br-NENs. Our patients’ cohort exhibited a favorable prognosis, potentially attributed to lower tumor stage and Ki67 index compared to other reported case series. We suggest that radical surgery and postoperative radiotherapy be administered akin to standard treatment for breast cancer of no special type. ESMO also advocates for this approach in systemic treatment, although we recommend considering platinum-based chemotherapy for patients with poorly differentiated Br-NENs exhibiting high Ki67.

Genomic surveillance strategy. Problems and perspectives

The topic of epidemiologic surveillance is one of the basic concepts in the theory and practice of epidemiologic science. In Russia, generalization of the accumulated factual material and theoretical developments have allowed us to formulate a number of provisions on the nature of the epidemic process. The pandemic of a new coronavirus infection has forced adjustments in all spheres of society, including the activities of the infectious disease epidemiological surveillance system, requiring the development and implementation of innovative solutions. Based on the experience of prompt response to the tasks set by the COVID-19 pandemic, the authors raised the problem of development and implementation of a system of molecular genetic monitoring for pathogens of emerging and re-emerging infections as a priority vector of epidemiological surveillance development. The introduction of modern molecular biological technologies for the identification of pathogens with epidemic potential, taking into account their genetic diversity, into the system of epidemiologic surveillance has been substantiated based on the experience of using platform solutions created by the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor. The strategy of genomic epidemiologic surveillance as a powerful tool to ensure readiness for response measures and management of the epidemic process by implementing and adjusting preventive and anti-epidemic measures was developed. The Russian platform for aggregation of information on virus genomes (VGARus) developed at the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor as a technological, scientific, organizational and infrastructural base of genomic epidemiological surveillance, acting as an interdepartmental consortium, has been introduced into practice. The efficiency of VGARus was shown to assess the mutational variability of SARS-CoV-2, the influence of evolutionary development of circulating pathogens on the characteristics of the epidemic process, the implementation of operational and retrospective analysis of morbidity and prediction of the spread of genetic variants of pathogens.

Do biobanks need pharmacists? Support of pharmacy students to biobanking of human biological material for pharmaceutical research and development

Objectives:This study aimed to assess the biobank awareness among Polish pharmacy students and how it affects their support for biobank research.Methods:A survey among 366 pharmacy students enrolled at two Polish medical universities: the Poznań University of Medical Sciences and Medical University of Lublin was conducted.Results:Although most pharmacy students felt positivity about biobanking and expressed the willingness to donate their biospecimens for biomedical research, their awareness on research biobanks was low. Their willingness to participate was driven by the desire to benefit society, help advance science and develop new therapies. While students supported donation for most types of research, biobanks run by medical universities were the highest trusted research institutions. The primary factors associated with student’s willingness to participate were religiosity and place of study. Notably, nonreligious students and those studying in Poznan exhibited more favourable attitudes toward donating for research and expressed greater support for the establishment of research biobanks in Poland.Conclusion:Since biobank awareness among future pharmacists is inadequate incorporating biobank competency domains into education and training of pharmacists is required.

Themes and trends in marathon performance research: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis from 2009 to 2023

Background: When marathon runners break the 2-h barrier at the finishing line, it attracts global attention. This study is aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis of publications in the field of marathon running, analyze relevant research contributors, and visualize the historical trends of marathon performance research over the past 15 years.Methods: On 8 December 2023, we extracted high-quality publication data from the Web of Science Core Collection spanning from 1 January 2009 to 30 November 2023. We conducted bibliometric analysis and research history visualization using the R language packages biblioshiny, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace.Results: A total of 1,057 studies were published by 3,947 authors from 1,566 institutions across 63 countries/regions. USA has the highest publication and citation volume, while, the University of Zurich being the most prolific research institution. Keywords analysis revealed several hotspots in marathon research over the past 3 years: (1) physiology of the elite marathon runners, (2) elite marathon training intensity and pacing strategies, (3) nutritional strategies for elite marathon runners, (4) age and sex differences in marathon performance, (5) recovery of inflammatory response and muscle damage.Conclusion: This study presents the first comprehensive bibliometric analysis of marathon performance research over the past 15 years. It unveils the key contributors to marathon performance research, visually represents the historical developments in the field, and highlights the recent topical frontiers. The findings of this study will guide future research by identifying potential hotspots and frontiers.

Seed Production in Jalandhar

A key factor in agricultural resilience, crop diversity, and productivity is seed production—particularly in areas like Jalandhar that must meet changing market demands and climate change. This project explores the complexities of seed production in Jalandhar and how it affects agricultural development with the goal of educating researchers, policymakers, and agricultural stakeholders on how to support sustainable seed production systems. Located in the rich plains of Punjab, Jalandhar has become a major centre for the production of seeds, especially for pulses, wheat, and rice. The region's favorable soil and climate, together with cutting-edge farming techniques, are what propel the expansion of the seed business. With the growing use of hybrid and genetically modified seeds, government programs encouraging agricultural output, and growing farmer awareness of the advantages of high-quality seeds, Jalandhar has a huge market potential for seed production. Nevertheless, in order to fully realize the potential of this industry, stakeholders must work together and implement strategic interventions in response to issues including volatile market pricing, restricted financial availability for small-scale farmers, and environmental sustainability concerns. The sector's growth trajectory is further aided by the existence of well-established agricultural research institutions and government policies that are supportive of the industry, providing growing opportunities in both domestic and foreign markets High-quality seeds improve crop yields while also contributing to overall sustainability and profitability in farming operations. Agro-ecologically-suited certified seeds are essential for reducing the danger of pests, illnesses, and unfavorable weather. Encouraging and supporting sustainable seed production systems in Jalandhar benefits all related departments and financial institutions by promoting agricultural development, economic success, and food security. Keywords : Seed production ,Agricultural development ,Market potential ,Sustainable seed systems ,Government initiatives ,Economic prosperity.

Integrated Approach in the Treatment of a Patient with Tuberculosis of the Lungs and Tracheobronchial Tree

Introduction. According to the World Health Organization data for 2021, there is an increase in the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) worldwide. There is also an unfavorable growth trend in drug-resistant TB. One of the complications of the tuberculosis process is tuberculosis of the tracheobronchial tree, which has tended to grow in recent years. Many studiesindicate the incidence of bronchial tuberculosis from 10 to 40 %, taking into account the level of endoscopic service.The purpose of the study to demonstrate the high effectiveness of an integrated approach in the treatment of a patient with tuberculosis of the lungs and tracheobronchial tree.Methods. The materials of the study were: the outpatient card of the advisory department of the Central Tuberculosis Research Institute, the medical history of the inpatient patient and the results of a comprehensive examination.Results. The presented clinical example demonstrates the high effectiveness of an integrated approach in the treatment of a patient with a widespread tuberculosis process using anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy, inhalation and pathogenetic therapy. By 4 months of treatment, pronounced positive clinical and laboratory dynamics was observed, significant resorption of focal infiltrative changes in the leſt lung was achieved radiologically, and endoscopically, infiltrative tuberculosis of the trachea, leſt main bronchus and leſt upper lobe bronchus was cured.Conclusion. This clinical observation demonstrates the need for an integrated approach in the management of this category of patients and shows the high effectiveness of the treatment.