Terms Of Specificity Research Articles

'Insufficient'/'Inadequate'/'Non-Diagnostic' Category of the WHO Reporting System for Lung Cytopathology, 2022: A Survey About Use in Practice.

The new 'WHO Reporting System for Lung Cytopathology' (2022) includes an 'Insufficient'/'Inadequate'/'Non-diagnostic' category. Although they recommend that each laboratory should choose one term to report this diagnostic category, they do not recommend one term over the others. Our aim was to evaluate the use of these three terms in pulmonary FNACs among Spanish pathologists. A web-based survey among Spanish pathologists using Google Forms was performed. It included 14 yes/no and multiple-choice questions, the latter with an open-text option where it was possible to give a different answer from the ones given. Some questions inquired about their daily practice routine whilst others proposed different cytological examples with the intention of knowing how they would report those particular cases. Twenty-eight participants (18 cytopathologists, two general pathologists and seven residents) from 17 different Spanish hospitals completed the survey. Most of the respondents use more than one term of this diagnostic category, and there is a lack of reproducibility on the criteria to use one specific term. There is a need to clearly define this category to reduce variability between pathologists.

Mercury and Cardiovascular Health: Exploring the Correlation between Atherosclerosis and Hypertension

Aims: To explore the association between mercury exposure and cardiovascular health, focusing on its impact on hypertension and atherosclerosis in individuals exposed to inorganic and organic mercury forms. This study aims to review the evidence on how mercury contributes to endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation, which are critical mechanisms in cardiovascular disease development. Study Design: This is a literature review based on observational and epidemiological studies conducted between 2000 and 2023, which investigated the effects of mercury exposure on cardiovascular diseases. Place and Duration of Study: Studies included were sourced from PUBMED, BVS, SCIELO, LILACS, and MEDLINE databases, published between 2000 and 2023. Methodology: This integrative review included studies on the association between mercury exposure and cardiovascular health, focusing on hypertension and atherosclerosis. The search was conducted in the PUBMED, BVS, SCIELO, LILACS, and MEDLINE databases, covering publications from 2000 to 2023 and using specific terms with Boolean operators. Observational and experimental studies in humans were included, excluding those with significant biases, unavailable in full text, or involving only in vitro or animal models. Screening was performed in three stages, with two independent reviewers and a PRISMA flow diagram to document the process. Results: The studies consistently indicated a significant association between mercury exposure and increased risk of hypertension and atherosclerosis. Individuals with higher mercury levels showed greater arterial stiffness, calcification, and an elevated risk of myocardial infarction and strokes. Observational studies in populations exposed to mercury, either occupationally or through diet, demonstrated a dose-dependent relationship between mercury exposure and cardiovascular events. Conclusion: Mercury exposure, particularly in vulnerable populations like industrial workers and communities with high fish consumption, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The review underscores the importance of stringent public health policies and regular monitoring of mercury levels in at-risk populations to prevent long-term cardiovascular damage.

Transcatheter Pulmonary Flow Restrictors: Current Trends and Future Perspectives.

Transcatheter Pulmonary Flow Restrictors (TPFRs) represent a significant advancement in managing pulmonary blood flow for congenital heart disease patients. However, there is a paucity of comprehensive studies addressing the diversity of these devices and identifying their critical features. This review aims to consolidate the existing knowledge on TPFRs, pinpoint crucial design and development aspects, identify gaps in current practices, and spotlight directions for future research and advancement. An exhaustive search was conducted across multiple databases, using specific search terms related to transcatheter and percutaneous pulmonary artery banding. Between 2005 and 2024, 82 patients were reported to have received TPFR implants, including fenestrated atrial septal defect occluders, diabolo-shaped stents, and MVP™ Micro Vascular Plug with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membranes partially removed. Microvascular plugs were the most commonly used and the most successful devices. However, the primary complications and challenges associated with MVPs included pulmonary overflow, unprotected flow to the right upper lobe, difficulty in creating an appropriately sized fenestration, the need for device replacement due to incorrect sizing, distal migration into the right pulmonary artery, left pulmonary artery stenosis, partial device collapse, thrombosis, jailing of the right upper lobe, potential injury to the pulmonary arterial wall, as well as device fracture and infection. TPFRs can be categorized based on the duration they are designed to remain within the pulmonary artery. Strategies should be devised to enable the device's easy removal without harming the pulmonary arterial wall while also preventing embolization. The ideal device should minimize migration, embolization, thrombosis, inflammation, and endothelialization risks. It should also prevent peri-device flow and adapt to the growth of the pulmonary artery, ensuring long-term efficacy and safety. The long-term outcomes and the potential for employing biodegradable and smart biomaterials remain areas for further investigation. Successful development of these devices requires a collaborative effort among biomaterial engineers, device developers, and interventional cardiologists.

Lexical, sentiment and correlation analysis of sacred writings. A tale of cultural influxes and different ways to interpret reality

Natural Language Processing (NLP) has transformative potential for decoding sacred writings, bridging linguistic and temporal relationships between cultures. These texts, laden with cultural and religious significance. The study analyzes texts from 14 belief systems using lexical, sentiment and correlation assessment. The analysis revealed that sacred texts are complex due to archaic language, but tend to show similar themes, historical contexts, and emotional tones. The study highlights common terms found throughout the texts, but also revealing specific terms that are influenced by the cultural context of the belief system. It also explores the various depictions of fauna and flora, uncovering the impact of spatio-temporal contexts on the composition of sacred writings. Sentiment analysis reveals polarity variations between cultures and suggest conflicts of style during translation of the texts. Comparative analysis uncovers text clusters with high similarity and cultural influences between religions that coexisted. This work showcases NLP’s potential to enhance comprehension of sacred texts and promote cross-cultural understanding.

Human milk extracellular vesicles modulate inflammation and cell survival in intestinal and immune cells.

Human milk contains extracellular vesicles (EVs) that carry bioactive molecules such as microRNA, to the newborn intestine. The downstream effects of EV cargo on signaling and immune modulation may shield neonates against inflammatory diseases, including necrotizing enterocolitis. Premature infants are especially at risk, while human milk-feeding may offer protection. The effect of gestational-age specific term and preterm EVs from transitional human milk was characterized on human intestinal epithelial cells (HIECs and Caco-2), primary macrophages, and THP-1 monocytes. We hypothesized that term and preterm EVs differentially influence immune-related cytokines and cell death. We found that preterm EVs were enriched in CD14 surface marker, while both term and preterm EVs increased epidermal growth factor secretion. Following inflammatory stimuli, only term EVs inhibited secretion of IL-6 in HIECs, and reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β in macrophages. Term and preterm EVs inhibited secretion of IL-1β and reduced inflammasome related cell death. We proposed that human milk EVs regulate immune-related signaling via their conserved microRNA cargo, which could promote tolerance and a homeostatic immune response. These findings provide basis for further studies into potential therapeutic supplementation with EVs in vulnerable newborn populations by considering functional, gestational age-specific effects. IMPACT: This study reveals distinct functional differences between term and preterm transitional human milk extracellular vesicles (EVs) highlighting the importance of gestational age in their bioactivity. Term EVs uniquely inhibited IL-6 secretion, IL-1β expression, and apoptosis following inflammatory stimuli. Both term and preterm human milk EVs reduced IL-1β secretion and inflammasome-induced cell death. Conserved human milk extracellular vesicle microRNA cargo could be a mediator of the anti-inflammatory effects, particularly targeting cytokine production, the inflammasome, and programmed cell death. These findings underscore the importance of considering gestational age in future research exploring the therapeutic potential of human milk extracellular vesicles to prevent or treat intestinal inflammatory diseases in neonates.

The definition of conflict of interest: international legal aspect

The article focuses on the study of international legal instruments in the field of corruption prevention, specifically addressing the definition of «conflict of interest». The relevance of the topic stems from the increasing incorporation of the conflict of interest concept into various areas of public management and administration through national legislation. Many works of scientists are devoted to the study of the problem of conflict of interests: the authors analyzing the definitions of key terms as outlined in national legislation; the essence of the definition is revealed through the typology and the classification of different types of conflicts of interest. However, at the national level, a comprehensive understanding of the application of the conflict of interest concept has not yet been fully developed. There is also a lack of a conceptual framework that satisfies the requirements of legal certainty. The question of the definition of «conflict of interest» in a way that is suitable for judicial and administrative application remains a matter of debate. An important step toward resolving this issue is the examination of international legal approaches to defining the essence of the concept. The article analyzes international conventions, declarations, and other legal instruments related to the fight against corruption to interpret and clarify the meaning of «conflict of interest». It clarifies international legal approaches to defining the term for the purposes of legal regulation. The article notes that the definition of conflict of interest can encompass a broad range of issues, particularly those related to combating corruption, which may fall within both administrative and criminal law. It is concluded that the term «conflict of interest», as a specific legal term, is not explicitly defined in international legal acts. The definition of «conflict of interest», as a complete and independent legal term, suitable for judicial and administrative use, is shaped by the context of state interests, the constitutional and legal framework, and public service requirements.

Evaluating the Effectiveness and Coverage of Vaccination Programs in Reducing the Incidence of Paediatric Infectious Diseases

Background: Pediatric infectious diseases pose a significant risk to child health worldwide. Vaccination programs have greatly reduced the incidence and severity of these diseases, though coverage and efficacy differ across regions. This mini-review examines how effectively these programs reduce pediatric infectious diseases by analyzing existing literature on vaccine impact in various countries. Methodology: A literature search across PubMed, MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, and CINAHL (Dec 2017 - May 2022) used specific MeSH terms, including ‘pediatric vaccination,’ ‘disease incidence,’ and ‘vaccine efficacy.’ Out of 928 articles initially retrieved, 48 underwent full-text screening, and seven met the final criteria. Results: The review highlights significant reductions in pediatric infectious diseases, particularly in regions with high vaccination coverage for diseases such as pneumococcal pneumonia, measles, and Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b). Studies report over 90% reductions in incidence rates for certain diseases in countries with comprehensive immunization programs, showcasing the importance of sustained, widespread coverage. Conversely, in regions with lower coverage, diseases remain prevalent, indicating the need for strengthened immunization strategies. Conclusion: Effective vaccination programs are crucial for reducing pediatric disease rates, improving public health, and fostering herd immunity. Increased vaccine accessibility, education, and coverage are necessary, especially in low-coverage regions, to advance global health goals for pediatric control.

Poverty reduction and the sustainable development goals: a bibliometric study focused on the Global South

ABSTRACT This research undertakes a bibliometric examination of the existing literature addressing the relationship between poverty and sustainability development, summarising available studies. Using relevant keywords, we identified 920 peer-reviewed articles from the Scopus database, spanning the period from 2015 to 2024. Employing the Visualisation of Similarity Viewer (VOSviewer) for this bibliometric analysis, we categorised prominent publications, noteworthy journals, and contributing institutions. Furthermore, our review uncovered a clear pattern in research, suggesting a lack of recognition regarding the impact of sustainable development on reducing poverty levels in countries of the Global South. In terms of contributions, this study delineates five primary thematic clusters that elucidate the ways in which sustainability development reduces poverty. Through the application of text-mining analysis, our research establishes connections between specific environmental terms and the recent surge in global poverty.

Allergy to Plant-Based Panallergens LTPs in Children: A Scoping Review

Introduction: Lipid Transfer Proteins (LTPs) are plant-derived panallergens that have emerged as significant allergens in Mediterranean populations. Though less common in children, LTP allergies represent a critical consideration for physicians diagnosing plant food allergies in this demographic. Methodology: PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed. A search with specific terms was performed in searchable databases. Two of the authors extracted and evaluated the data. Results: A total of 21 original studies and 6 case reports focusing on LTP allergies in the paediatric population met the inclusion criteria. Diagnostic tools, predictive markers and management options for LTP allergies were examined. Allergens, clinical presentation and history were the diagnostic tools investigated. The clinical and laboratory phenotypes of the patient were considered possible predictive markers for the evaluation and progression of LTP allergies. Lastly, dietary modifications and sublingual immunotherapy were identified as the main focus of LTP allergy management. Discussion: A summary of the results is presented, and at the same time, questions concerning the nature of LTP allergies and their management are raised. Conclusions: LTP allergy in children is something physicians should be aware of. Further research is needed to establish the differences in LTP allergies in children and adults and the effectiveness of immunotherapy in paediatric populations.

Evaluation of anti-Mullerian hormone as parameter of ovarian function in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

HIGHLIGHTS Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients show a strong correlation between Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) levels and ovarian function. Lower AMH levels indicate higher risk of impaired ovarian function and diminished reserve, as revealed by this meta-analysis. The comprehensive synthesis of available data in this study has important clinical implications for the management and counseling of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients. ABSTRACT Objective: The assessment of ovarian function in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) holds paramount importance for both clinicians and patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis delves into the role of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) as a key marker in evaluating ovarian function among SLE patients. Our study aims to provide valuable insights for clinicians managing ovarian function assessments and to offer practical recommendations for differences in therapy for patient care. Materials and Methods: Studies comparing serum AMH levels between patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and healthy controls, as well as serum AMH levels between SLE patients, are necessary. PRISMA guidelines were used for this systematic review. Databases like PubMed, SCOPUS, EuropePMC, ProQuest, and Cochrane Central were searched using specific terms ("Anti-Mullerian Hormone" or "Ovarian Function" and "Systemic Lupus Erythematosus") for publications between 2000 and 2023. After removing duplicates, authors screened remaining articles based on abstracts, then reviewed selected abstracts in full-text. Studies meeting criteria were included based on unanimous agreement among investigators, with any disagreements resolved through author consensus. Results: Data There were 12 eligible studies. In this research, we identified a link between SLE and diminished levels of AMH. Furthermore, it was observed that SLE patients undergoing cyclophosphamide (CYC) treatment also exhibited lowered AMH levels Conclusion: The systematic review underscores the heightened risk of reduced ovarian reserve in SLE patients. Importantly, CYC treatment emerged as a factor contributing to compromised ovarian reserve. For individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus, particularly women in their reproductive years, assessing serum AMH levels can serve as a pivotal tool to inform therapeutic decisions and preserve ovarian health. Our study contributes to enhanced clinical understanding and patient care within the realm of SLE and reproductive health.

Uncemented Total Knee Arthroplasty: An Analysis of Biomechanical, Clinical, and Technological Aspects

Introduction: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is widely used for treating advanced osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions, providing pain relief and improved joint function. Traditionally, cemented TKA is preferred for its reliable initial fixation, especially in elderly patients with compromised bone quality. However, with increasing life expectancy and physical demands, uncemented TKA has emerged as a promising alternative, offering benefits in bone preservation and greater implant durability. This study reviews the biomechanical, clinical, and technological aspects of uncemented TKA compared to cemented TKA. Objective: To critically evaluate the effectiveness of uncemented TKA, identifying factors that influence long-term outcomes and comparing its benefits and limitations to cemented TKA. Methods: A review was conducted based on articles published over the last 20 years, including clinical studies, systematic reviews, experimental trials, and observational studies. The search was carried out in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, using specific terms and Boolean operators. Studies were selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were extracted and analyzed to compare the outcomes between TKA techniques. Results: Uncemented TKA showed advantages in preserving bone density and reducing reoperation rates in young and active patients due to osteointegration facilitated by materials such as trabecular titanium and hydroxyapatite coatings. However, challenges persist, particularly in patients with osteoporosis, where fixation may be less effective. On the other hand, cemented TKA offers superior initial stability in older patients. Conclusion: Uncemented TKA provides significant benefits, especially for younger patients, but the choice between cemented and uncemented TKA should be personalized, considering factors such as age, bone quality, and physical activity level. Ongoing advances in materials and technologies may further improve uncemented TKA outcomes, but additional studies are needed to strengthen the evidence.

The Erosion of Cultural Essence: Translating Mythical Cultural Terms in Classical Chinese Folk Novels

This paper explores the challenges and implications of translating mythical cultural terms from the Chinese classical literary work Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio. Drawing on the theoretical framework of cultural loss and compensation, this study employs a comparative analysis of two selected English translations by Herbert Giles and John Minford to identify and evaluate the compensation methods used and their impact on preserving cultural essence. Utilizing a qualitative descriptive methodology, this research analyzes selected stories featuring mythical beings, focusing on the translation of specific cultural terms and the use of annotations and contextual explanations. The study examines the extent to which cultural subtleties are preserved or lost in translation, evaluating the effectiveness of compensation methods and their implications for readers’ cultural understanding. By examining the translators’ choices and their influence on the portrayal of mythical beings, the study aims to provide insights into how cultural subtleties are either preserved or eroded in the translation process. Key findings indicate that while some translations strive to maintain the original cultural essence through careful annotation and contextualization, others prioritise readability and accessibility, leading to significant cultural loss. The paper concludes with recommendations for translators and scholars to enhance cultural preservation in literary translations and suggests directions for future research. This study contributes to the broader discourse on the translation of classical Chinese literature, highlighting the importance of cultural fidelity in translating mythical beings and the role of translators in shaping cultural understanding and appreciation.

Liebe Seniorinnen und Senioren! vs. Dragi seniori! Wortschatzveränderungen im Bereich der Altersgruppenbezeichnungen im Deutschen und Rumänischen

The fact that certain social groups in a language community, people over 55 are elevated to the subject of discourse allows conclusions to be drawn both about the cultural attention paid to these groups and about the defining group. The formation of new names for certain groups can also be understood as an indication of changes in the group of those responsible for the foreign designations, which lie between an unmarked "we" and the conceptually marked "other". In the semiotic changes of language use, the collective formation of social categories, including their contradictions, becomes palpable in specific terms – making the conceptual historical analysis group designations a practicable linguistic tool of cultural analysis.

Exploring Translation Strategies of Thesis Abstract Written by Non-English Department Students in The University of Mataram

This study investigates the translation problems, strategies, and the most frequently used strategy in translating Indonesian thesis abstracts into English. The subjects of this research comprised eight thesis abstracts written by non-English department students at the University of Mataram during the 2023 academic year. Utilizing Baker’s theory on translation problems and strategies, which encompasses eleven aspects, this study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative analyses. The findings reveal a total of 78 translation problems across the eight Indonesian thesis abstracts. Among Baker's identified problems, only eight were observed, including: culture-specific concepts (31 instances), source language concepts not lexicalized in the target language (4 instances), semantically complex source language words (14 instances), a lack of specific terms in the target language (1 instance), differences in expressive meaning (8 instances), differences in form (2 instances), differences in frequency and purpose of specific forms (6 instances), and the use of loan words in the source text (12 instances). To address these challenges, seven out of eight translation strategies from Baker’s theory were employed in the English thesis abstracts. The most utilized strategy was translation using loan words (35 instances, 45%), followed by translation using a more general word (12 instances, 16%), translation using a neutral word (10 instances, 13%), translation by omission (10 instances, 13%), translation by paraphrase using a related word (4 instances, 5%), and the least employed strategies were translation using cultural substitution (3 instances, 4%) and paraphrase using unrelated words (3 instances, 4%). Of the 78 translation problems identified, 77 were resolved using the seven strategies, while one problem remained unsolved due to an unacceptable translation. This thesis aims to serve as a valuable reference for translators, English department students, and researchers in the field of translation. The findings indicate a significant need for enhanced support and resources in the translation process for non-English department students at the University of Mataram.

No Difference in Outcomes, Complications, or Revision Rate for Obese vs. Nonobese Patients Following Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) offers numerous benefits over total hip replacements such as increased preservation of natural bone, improved range of motion, and lower dislocation risks. However, patient selection is crucial, with factors such as bone quality, activity level, and body mass index (BMI) playing significant roles. Obesity in particular poses challenges, potentially increasing mechanical load on the joint, complicating surgical techniques, and affecting both immediate and long-term outcomes. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate outcomes of HRA in obese vs. nonobese patients to determine if obesity should be considered a contraindication to HRA or if similar treatment approaches can be applied. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases with specific search terms related to HRA and obesity. Articles were screened by title and abstract, followed by full-text review. Data extraction focused on demographic and study variables such as sex, age, BMI, complication and revision rates, and patient-reported outcomes. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to compare University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) scores, Harris hip scores, complication rates, and revision rates between obese and nonobese patients, with significance set at p < 0.05. From an initial pool of 39 articles, 4 met inclusion criteria, encompassing 1,385 patients. Analysis revealed a pooled mean age of 50.92 years and a complication rate of 9.83% in obese vs. 4.7% in nonobese patients. Revision rates were 1.15% for obese and 3.70% for nonobese patients. The difference in postoperative UCLA scores, complication rates, and revision rates were deemed not statistically significant. The comparability in patient-reported outcomes, complication rates, and revision rates between obese and nonobese cohorts suggests that although heightened vigilance and tailored approaches may be warranted in obese patients, obesity alone should not preclude patients from undergoing HRA. These findings advocate for a more nuanced approach to patient selection, emphasizing individualized assessment over generalized BMI cutoffs. Future HRA research should focus on long-term follow-up and larger cohort studies to further validate these results. Level III, systematic review of Level II and III studies. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Differential Protein-Coding Gene Expression Profile in Patients with Prostate Cancer.

Prostate cancer is the second most common neoplasm in men, with projections estimating over one million new cases by 2045. Differentially expressed genes can significantly enhance the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and prognosis of this disease. to systematically review and analyze validated differentially expressed mRNAs in prostate cancer patients to propose a robust molecular profile for clinical diagnostics. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, searching literature databases for mRNAs with validated differential expression in adult prostate cancer patients. Identified mRNAs were analyzed using STRING, Cytoscape, and DrugBank to explore protein-protein interactions and potential drug targets. A total of 5003 participants from Europe, Asia, America, and Oceania were included, and 144 mRNAs (p < 0.05) were reported across 75 primary articles, predominantly validated using RT-qPCR with tissue samples. Among these, at least 36 mRNAs were identified as targets for cancer-related drugs. Enrichment analysis revealed the top pathways were associated with cancer, including specific prostate cancer terms. Key nodes emerged as hubs in the protein-protein interaction network. Based on our comprehensive in silico analysis of validated differentially expressed mRNAs, we propose a molecular profile of twenty-five mRNAs with significant potential for clinical diagnosis of prostate cancer. These findings offer a valuable foundation for developing precision oncology strategies to improve patient outcomes.

AUDIT COMMITTEE ATTRIBUTES AND EARNINGS QUALITY: EVIDENCE FROM LISTED FINANCIAL SERVICES FIRMS IN NIGERIA

Abstract: Information on earnings is an important earnings quality metric in financial reporting. Poor disclosure of such information could lead to poor information asymmetry, which often triggers negative reactions from the market and stakeholders. Therefore, this study investigates the relationship between audit committee attributes and earnings quality among listed financial services firms in Nigeria. The study conducts robust regression analysis with 11-year panel data for 41 listed firms. Our findings reveal the effect of audit committee attributes on earnings quality. In specific terms, the findings of the study reveal that audit committee independence, audit committee accounting expertise, the expertise of women on the audit committee, and the audit committee meetings improve earnings quality. The findings of the study confirm the code of corporate governance in Nigeria and agency theory postulations. The study makes some appreciable contributions to the literature by examining gender diversity beyond women’s inclusion on the committee to include expertise, examining audit committee independence from the point of view of the representatives of the shareholders, and earnings quality from a long-term sustainable point of view. Keywords: Audit Committee Independence; Audit Committee Size; Earnings Predictability; Earnings Smoothen; Shareholders’ Representatives

Rehmannia glutinosa DC.-Lilium lancifolium Thunb. in the treatment of depression: a comprehensive review and perspectives.

In recent years, the incidence of depression, recognized as a serious psychological disorder, has escalated rapidly. Rehmannia glutinosa DC. (Scrophulariaceae; Rehmanniae Radix, Crude drug) and Lilium lancifolium Thunb. (Liliaceae; Lilii bulbus, Crude drug) constitute a classic anti-depressant combination, exhibiting pharmacological effects that include anti-depressive, anti-anxiety, and anti-inflammatory properties. Current clinical studies have demonstrated that Baihe Dihuang Decoction, a traditional Chinese herbal compound, is effective in treating depression. However, the majority of scholars have predominantly examined Rehmannia glutinosa and Lilium in isolation, and a comprehensive elucidation of their principal active metabolites and pharmacological mechanisms remains lacking. A comprehensive literature search was conducted as of 29 September 2024, utilizing databases such as PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang Data, Baidu Scholar, and Google Scholar. Additionally, classical texts on Chinese herbal medicine, the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, as well as doctoral and master's theses, were included in the collected materials. The search employed specific terms including "R. glutinosa," "Lilium," "Baihe Dihuang decoction," "application of Baihe Dihuang decoction," "pathogenesis of depression," and "pharmacological action and mechanism of depression. This paper reviewed the traditional applications and dosages of the R. glutinosa-Lilium as documented in Chinese medical classics, thereby establishing a foundation for the contemporary development and clinical application of the classical formula Baihe Dihuang Decoction. Additionally, recent years have seen a comprehensive review of the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of R. glutinosa-Lilium and its principal metabolites in the context of depression. This paper has reviewed the active metabolites of R. glutinosa-Lilium and demonstrated its efficacy in the treatment of depression, as well as its role in modulating the underlying mechanisms of the disorder. The findings aim to serve as a reference for further research into the mechanisms of depression, its clinical applications, and the development of novel therapeutic agents.

Proportions and types of different sweeteners in the Hungarian packaged food supply

Abstract Branded food databases facilitate the analysis of sweetener use in commercial packaged food products. The purpose of this study was to map the use of sweeteners in relevant packaged food categories and to assess and compare the nutrient profile of non-sugar (including sugar alcohol) vs. added sugar sweetened food products in Hungary. The foodDB software, developed by University of Oxford, enables automated online data collection, and was used to compile data of all foods and drinks available from four major Hungarian supermarket websites, selected by market share in March 2021. Only products containing either added sugar and/or non-sugar sweeteners were included in the study. These were categorized into 12 food groups using specific search terms. After data cleaning the final product number was 2016. 72% of the products was sweetened with added sugars only, 15% of them with non-sugar sweeteners only and 13% contained both sugars and non-sugar sweeteners. Chewing gums (92%), soft drinks (60%), energy drinks (50%) and pickles (35%) contained non-sugar sweeteners in the largest proportion. More than 90% of flavoured alcoholic beers, chocolate bars, breakfast cereals and yogurts were sweetened with added sugar only. Nine categories included food items containing multiple non-sugar sweeteners per product. The most common non-sugar sweeteners were acesulfame-potassium, sucralose, aspartame present in 15%, 10%, 9% of the total products respectively. Muesli bars with non-sugar sweeteners contained less energy but also less fibre than muesli bars with added sugars only; whereas pickles with non-sugar sweeteners contained less energy but were significantly higher in salt than those products with added sugars only. The presence of non-sugar sweeteners is widespread in the Hungarian food supply; however, their use does not guarantee a more beneficial nutrient profile. Branded food databases are useful tools to analyse the nutrient composition of packaged foods. Key messages • Branded food databases are useful tools to monitor the composition of the packaged food supply. • The nutrition profile of foods with non-sugar sweeteners can be less favourable than foods with added sugars.

Проект Стратегии противодействия экстремизму в Российской Федерации – политический анализ новых подходов в спектре современных угроз

The article delves into the analysis of the document titled “Strategy for Counteracting Extremism in the Russian Federation”, proposed for adoption by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, with a focus on its alignment with current challenges and threats in the sphere of national security. The author concludes that the project successfully develops and complements the provisions of the existing Strategy for Counteracting Extremism in the Russian Federation until 2025, incorporating new threats arising from the exacerbated geopolitical situation. These threats include the intensified activities of foreign intelligence and sabotage services aimed at recruiting underage Russian citizens, the introduction of non-traditional forms of Islam unfamiliar to the indigenous peoples of Russia and their subsequent radicalization, and the covert use of sports organizations for the preparation of extremists. However, the author observes that certain provisions and formulations within the project require clarification. Specific terms such as xenophobia, Russophobia, and the correlation between extremist and terrorist activities need to be defined with greater precision. The author also highlights potential issues that may arise from the use of quantitative indicators for measuring the success of the Strategy’s implementation. In conducting this research, the author employed various methods including a systematic approach, multifactor analysis, the principle of historicism, and logical and semantic analysis of documents. These methodological frameworks facilitated a comprehensive examination of the proposed strategy in light of modern challenges and the evolving landscape of threats to national security.