bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulin Therapy among Diabetic Patients in Rural Communities of Sub Saharan Africa: A Perspective Review
Authors: Kiconco Ritah , Acheng Lumumba Sylvia , Bagenda Charles , Atwine Raymond , Ndarubwine Joseph , Rugera Simon Peter
Published: August 2023

In this perspective review, we describe a brief background on the status quo of diabetes mellitus related therapies and glycemic control among patients in rural communities of sub Saharan Africa. We specifically talk about insulin therapy and the challenges of access to insulin and oral hypoglycemic therapies among the diabetic patients living in sub-Saharan Africa. We crown up our discussion with suggestions on solutions and opportunities for future research to tackle this health challenge in these impoverished communities. Our ideas have been informed by the following inquiries: What is the current situation with diabetes in Sub-Saharan Africa? How well controlled are blood sugar levels among diabetes individuals in Sub-Saharan Africa? What is insulin therapy, and for which patient populations is it recommended? What proportions of diabetic patients are on insulin therapy and oral hypoglycemic drugs in Sub-Saharan Africa? Which is the most common therapy given to diabetic patients in the rural communities of sub Saharan Africa between insulin and oral hypoglycemic drugs? Who determines the choice of therapy between insulin and oral hypoglycemic drugs? How often is hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia encountered among people on insulin therapy? Is monitoring glucagon levels important for treating diabetic individuals receiving insulin? Is it normal practice to check the glucagon levels of diabetes patients in sub-Saharan African rural communities? What insulin therapy research has been done in the rural communities of sub Saharan Africa and what research gaps exist in this field? Addressing these research gaps is critical for improving insulin therapy in rural communities of sub-Saharan Africa and reducing the burden of diabetes in these populations.
Augmented Gravity Model of Trade with Social Network Analysis
Authors: Coşkuner Çağay , Sogah Richard , Jenkins Glenn P.
Published: August 2023

International trade has been one of the most significant economic activities among countries, and its contributions towards a country’s economic growth and sustainable development have been acknowledged. In recent times, international trade and global trade networks have received preeminent attention due to the sharp growth in trade volumes and its contributions to poverty reduction and general welfare. Despite the growth in global trade volumes, there are worrying concerns about the unprecedented changes in international trade patterns and growing imbalances in trade in recent times. Whereas China’s trade volumes have more than tripled over the last decades and have maintained the largest trade surplus spot ahead of Germany, other major trade surplus countries such as Japan, the USA, etc. have become trade deficit countries with their trade volumes increasing at a much slower pace. In view of the growing imbalances in global trade volumes, we use an augmented gravity model of trade that incorporates social network measurement, the real effective exchange rate which is a measurement of international competitiveness, as well as the Linder theory of trade, to investigate the factors that determine the export performance of countries. Using data from 51 countries for 41 years, our results indicate that the GDP of both the home country and the partner country affects the home country’s exports positively. Similarly, the real effective exchange rate REER, trade openness OPEN and dummy variables BORDER, ENGLISH, and EU have produced positive and statistically significant coefficient estimates, and these are in line with our theoretical expectations.
Structural Variations of Prions and Prion-Like Proteins Associated with Neurodegeneration
Authors: Christensen Carter Sky , Li Wenshu , Yu Danyang , Li Henry James
Published: August 2023

Neurodegeneration is becoming one of the leading causes of death worldwide as the population expands and grows older. There is a growing desire to understand the mechanisms behind prion proteins as well as the prion-like proteins that make up neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Both amyloid β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau (p-tau) proteins behave in ways similar to that of the infectious form of the prion protein, PrPSc, such as aggregating, seeding, and replicating under not yet fully understood mechanisms, thus the designation of prion-like. This review aims to highlight the shared mechanisms between prion-like proteins and prion proteins in the structural variations associated with aggregation and disease development. These mechanisms are largely focusing on the dysregulation of protein homeostasis, self-replication, and protein aggregation, and how this knowledge could contribute to diagnoses and treatments for the given NDs.
Case Report of Indoor Air Antimicrobial Resistant Fungi Circulating in a Ghanaian Referral Autopsy Unit
Authors: Oforiwaa Maame Ekua , Gyapong Francis , Afrifah Kofi Adjapong , Isawumi Abiola , Mosi Lydia
Published: August 2023

The public health risk associated with the autopsy unit is high and information on indoor microbial air contamination is limited. Airborne pathogenic fungi thrive in moist indoor environments similar to autopsy room conditions. They spread through spores, cause infections in immunocompromised patients, and exhibit resistance to antimicrobials, making them a public health threat. This study profiled fungi circulating in the indoor air of a referral autopsy unit in Accra, Ghana. The different sections of the unit were sampled using the standard open plate technique. Fungal isolates obtained were phenotypically and molecularly characterized. The resistance to fluconazole and itraconazole, as well as a germicide used in routine cleaning of the unit, was tested using broth microdilution assays. Fungi isolated include species of clinically relevant strains of Candida and Aspergillus; also, Penicillium spp. and Mucor spp. They exhibited high levels of resistance to fluconazole and itraconazole, as well as Denzal® germicide used in routine cleaning of the autopsy unit. This study is the first to profile the fungal diversity of an autopsy unit in Ghana, and the findings suggest that workers might be exposed to fungi with high pathogenic potential that could cause infections.
Review on Smart Nanocarrier Bilayer Lipid-Coated graphene@MSN Nanocomposites
Authors: Patil Ketan B. , Patel Jayvadan K.
Published: August 2023

In the contemporary era, there has been a notable surge in the systematic utilization of therapeutic drugs that exhibit stimulus-responsive drug release patterns in specific target areas. However, challenges such as premature drug release and limited biocompatibility persist. To address these issues, the application of a lipid coating on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) has emerged as a promising strategy. This lipid coating not only enhances the stability and biocompatibility of nanocarriers but also facilitates targeted drug delivery to diseased cells while minimizing drug release throughout the body. MSNs, renowned for their unique attributes including high porosity, morphology, and controllable pore size, have been widely recognized as suitable platforms for drug/gene delivery systems. Furthermore, graphene-based nanomaterials such as graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide have garnered significant interest in the fields of biology and biomedicine. These materials possess exceptional characteristics such as a large surface area, distinct surface properties, high biocompatibility, and pH sensitivity, making them ideal candidates for incorporating drugs, genes, photosensitizers, and other cargo to design innovative drug delivery systems. This study aims to emphasize the ongoing efforts and advancements in enhancing the capacity and versatility of nanocomposites comprising graphene MSN composites for applications in drug delivery.
Selective Impact of Selenium Compounds on Two Cytokine Storm Players
Authors: Sinha Indu , Zhu Junjia , Sinha Raghu
Published: August 2023

COVID-19 patients suffer from detrimental effects of cytokine storm and not much success has been achieved to overcome this issue. We sought to test the ability of selenium in reducing the impact of two important cytokine storm players; IL-6 and TNF-a. The effects of four selenium compounds were evaluated on the secretion of these cytokines from THP-1 macrophages in vitro following LPS challenge. Also, potential impact of methylseleninic acid (MSeA) on Nrf2 and IkBa was determined following short treatment of THP-1 macrophages. MSeA was observed to be the most potent selenium form to reduce IL-6 and TNF-a levels among the four selenium compounds tested. In addition, an increase in Nrf2 and decrease in pIkBa in human macrophages was observed following MSeA treatment. Our data indicate that COVID-19 patients might benefit by suppressing their cytokine storm with addition of MSeA to the standard therapy.
Mapping hierarchical file structures to semantic data models for efficient data integration into research data management systems
Authors: Tom Wörden Henrik , Spreckelsen Florian , Luther Stefan , Parlitz Ulrich , Schlemmer Alexander
Published: August 2023

Although other methods exist to store and manage data in modern information technology, the standard solution are file systems. Therefore keeping well-organized file structures and file system layouts can be key to a sustainable research data management infrastructure. However, file structures alone are lacking several important capabilities for FAIR data management: The two most striking are insufficient visualization of data and inadequate possibilities for searching and getting an overview. Research data management systems (RDMS) can fill this gap, but many do not support the simultaneous use of the file system and the RDMS. This simultaneous use can have many benefits, but keeping data in the RDMS in synchrony with the file structure is challenging. Here, we present concepts that allow to keep file structures and semantic data models (in RDMS) synchronous. Furthermore, we propose a specification in yaml-format that allows for a structured and extensible declaration and implementation of a mapping between the file system and data models used in semantic research data management. Implementing these concepts will facilitate the re-use of specifications for multiple use cases. Furthermore, the specification can serve as a machine-readable and, at the same time, human-readable documentation of specific file system structures. We demonstrate our work using the Open Source RDMS CaosDB.
Barriers Faced by Australian Women When Sharing Experiences of Family Violence with Primary Healthcare Providers: A Scoping Review
Authors: Rathnayake Jayamini Chathurika , Pozian Nadirah Mat , Carroll Julie-Anne , King Julie Anne
Published: August 2023

Despite the Australian Government’s attempts to reduce domestic violence (DV) incidences, impediments that exist within the social and health systems and interventions designed to identify DV victims may contribute to female victims’ reluctance to disclose DV experiences to their primary healthcare providers. This scoping review aimed to provide the state of evidence about reasons for such reluctance to reveal DV, symptoms and comorbidities patients present to healthcare providers, detection and interventions in the clinical setting, and recommendations to generate more effective responses to DV. Female victims are reluctant to reveal DV because they do not trust or believe that general practitioners can help them to solve the issue, they do not acknowledge they are in an abusive relationship or are unaware that they are, or had been, victims of DV. The most common symptoms and comorbidities victims present with are sleep difficulties and fear. DV screening programs are the most prominent intervention type within Australian primary health services. This scoping review provides formative evidence that further research and interventions are required to increase professional skills, knowledge, sensitivity and referral processes among primary healthcare professionals treating patients experiencing DV in Australia.
Preparation of Biochar Composite Microspheres and Their Removal Ability for Oil Agents in Dyeing Wastewater
Authors: Shen Lu , Jin Rushi , Chen Wanming , QI Dongmin , Zhai Shimin
Published: August 2023

Oil agents produced from degreasing treatment of synthetic fibers are typical pollutants in printing and dyeing wastewater, which may cause large-scale environmental pollution without proper treatment. How to purify oily dye wastewater with low cost is a key problem at present. In this study, the biochar microspheres with oil removal ability were prepared deriving from waste bamboo chips using hydrothermal method. The structure of biochar microsphere was regulated by the activation and modification processes. The biochar microspheres were characterized and their adsorption behaviors for oily dye wastewater were explored. The results showed that the adsorption efficiency of biochar microspheres for oily dye wastewater (DTY) was improved significantly after the secondary pyrolysis and lauric acid grafting reaction. The maximum COD removal quantity of biochar microspheres for DTY was 889 mg/g with removal rate of 86.06% in 30 min. Besides, the kinetics showed that the chemisorption was the main adsorption manner. The application of biochar microspheres can decrease the costs of oily wastewater treatment and avoid environmental pollution.
Four-Polarisation Camera for Anisotropy Mapping at Three Orientations: Micro-Grain of Olivine
Authors: Kamegaki Shuji , Smith Daniel , Ryu Meguya , Ng Soon Hock , Huang Hsin-Hui , Maasoumi Pegah , Vongsvivut Jitraporn , Moraru Daniel , Katkus Tomas , Juodkazis Saulius , Morikawa Junko
Published: August 2023

Four-polarisation camera was used to map absorbance of olivine micro-grains before and after high temperature annealing (HTA). It is shown that HTA of olivine xenolith at above 1200∘C in O2 flow makes it magnetised. Different mode of operation of polariscope with polarisation control before and after the sample in transmission and reflection modes was used. The reflection type was assembled for non-transparent samples of olivine after HTA. Sample for optical observation in transmission was placed on an achromatic plastic quarter-wavelength waveplate as a sample holder. Inspection for sample’s birefringence (retardance) as well as absorbance can be made. A best fit of transmitted intensity or transmittance T (hence absorbance A=−log10T) becomes accessible by simple best-fit using only three orientations (from measured four orientations by the camera). When intensity of transmitted light at one of the orientations was very low due to cross-polarised condition (polariser-analyser arrangement), the three-points fit can be used. Three-point fit in transmission and reflection modes was validated for T(θ)=Amp×cos(2θ−2θshift)+offset, where amplitude Amp, offset offset and orientation azimuth θshift are extracted for each pixel via the best fit.
Ochratoxin A and Aflatoxins: Fine-Tuning to the ELISA Test on Table Olives
Authors: Cammerata Alessandro , Del Frate Viviana , Monforte Tiziana , Romano Elio
Published: August 2023

This study is aimed to point out the possible application of the Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA) test on table olives. Because olives, like many other foods, are not free from mycotoxin contamination, the main focus of this work was assessing the presence or absence of aflatoxins and ochratoxin A. The work was carried out in two phases. In the first phase, tests were carried out on commercial olives to assess the efficacy of the method and the kit (Veratox® 'Neogen' and AgraQuant® 'Romer Labs') by comparing them with the Liquid Chromatography coupled to a mass-mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS); in order to understand if there were any interferences in antigen-antibody recognition; subsequently, mycotoxins were inoculated on the same samples with a known quantity, in order to assess the concentrations obtained and compare them to the expected ones. The second step involved modifying the method, so to improve the recovery of inoculated mycotoxins in the samples under study. Afterwards we evaluated the presence of mycotoxins in table olives supplied in the project. The results showed the effectiveness of the ELISA test, especially in the mycotoxin recovery phase. Indeed, after the modification of the mycotoxin extraction method, recoveries increased from 55% to over 70% for aflatoxins, and from 40% to over 55% for ochratoxin A. When analysing the samples provided by the above-mentioned company, the results showed some false positives, in particular in relation to ochratoxin A ’s analysis, mainly related to the first sample submission. Taking this into account, the ELISA test can be considered as an initial screening method applicable as a control programme for the evaluation of mycotoxins in olives which helps by saving time and costs. It should always be kept in mind that, if positive values should emerge, the LC-MS/MS analysis should be carried out.
Distinction between Effects of IR-Drop and Negative Capacitance of Fast Cyclic Voltammograms
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Aoki Koichi Jeremiah , Chen Jingyuan
Published: August 2023

Diffusion-controlled cyclic voltammograms at fast scan rates show peak shifts as well as decreases in the peak currents from the predicted diffusion-controlled currents especially when currents are large in low concentration of supporting electrolyte. This has been conventionally recognized as an IR-drop effect by solution resistance on the peaks as well as heterogeneous kinetics. It is also brought about by negatively capacitive currents associated with charge transfer reactions. The reaction product generates dipoles with counterions to yield a capacitance, of which current flows oppositely to that of the double layer capacitance. The three effects are specified here in the oxidation of a ferrocenyl derivative by fast scan voltammetry. The expression for voltammograms complicated with IR-drop is derived analytically, and yields deformed voltammograms. The peak shift is approximately linear with the IR-term, but exhibits a convex variation. Dependence of some parameters on the peaks by the IR-drop is compared with those by the negative capacitance. The latter is more conspicuous than the former under conventional conditions. The two effects cannot be distinguished specifically except for variations of conductance of the solution.
Comprehensive Analysis of DNA Methyltransferases Expression in Primary and Relapsed Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Papakonstantinou Efthymia , Pappa Ioanna , Androutsopoulos Georgios , Adonakis Georgios , Maroulis Ioannis , Tzelepi Vasiliki
Published: August 2023

Background: Despite recent advances in epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) treatment, recur-rence and mortality rates have not improved significantly. DNA hypermethylation has generally been associated with ominous prognosis and chemotherapy resistance, but the role of DNMTs in EOC remains to be investigated. Methods: In the current study, we systematically retrieved gene expression data from patients with EOC and studied the immunohistochemical expression of DNMTs in 108 primary and 26 relapsed tumors. Results: Our results showed that DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B and DNMT3L RNA levels were higher and DNMT2 lower in tumors compared to non-neoplastic tissue, and DNMT3A and DNMT2 expression decreased from Stage II to Stage IV carcinomas. Proteomic data also suggested that DNMT1 and DNMT3A levels were increased in tumors. Similarly, DNMT1, DNMT3A and DNMT3L protein levels were overex-pressed and DNMT2 expression was reduced in high grade carcinomas compared to non-neoplastic tissue and low-grade tumors. Moreover, DNMT1 and DNMT3L were increased in relapsed tumors compared to their primaries. DNMT3A, DNMT1 and DNMT3B mRNA lev-els were correlated with overall survival. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that DNMT1 and DNMT3L are upregulated in primary high grade EOC and further increase in relapses, whereas DNMT3A is upregulated only in the earlier stages of cancer progression. DNMT2 downregulation highlights a presumptive tumor-suppressor activity of this gene in ovarian car-cinoma.
An Anthracene Carboxamide-Based Fluorescent Probe for Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Mitochondrial Hypochlorite in Living Cells
Authors: Liu Xueling , Zhou Guangshuai , Wang Yali , Zhang Wenzhou
Published: August 2023

Mitochondrial hypochlorite (ClO-) plays important and often contradictory roles in maintaining the redox balance of mitochondria. Abnormal ClO- levels can induce mitochondrial inactivation and further cause cell apoptosis. Herein. we have developed an anthracene carboxyimide-based fluorescent probe mito-ACS for imaging mitochondrial ClO- in living cells. This probe exhibits some distinctive features as excellent resistance to photobleaching, high selectivity and sensitivity, as well as good water solubility. Mito-ACS showed a noticeable fluorescence response toward ClO-with a fast response (within 6 s) and a low detection limit (23 nM). Moreover, the introduction of triphenylphosphonium makes the probe soluble in water and selectively localizes to mitochondria. Furthermore, mito-ACS was successfully applied to image mitochondria ClO- in living cells with low toxicity. Remarkably. the less used fluorophore anthracene carboxyimide exhibiting excellent photostability and desirable optical properties provides a promising application prospect in biological systems.
Long-Term Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair. Single Center Experience
Authors: Dokollari Aleksander , Sicouri Serge , Torregrossa Gianluca , Rodriguez Roberto , Meisner Robert , Hirsch Henry , DiGiovanni Vincent , Uribe Alexander , Bacchi Beatrice , Cabrucci Francesso , Chiarello Bruno , Ramlawi Basel , Bonacchi Massimo
Published: August 2023

Background: To analyze long-term outcomes in patients undergoing thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR).
Methods: All consecutive 97 patients undergoing TEVAR between September 2014 and September 2022 were included in the study. Primary outcome was long-term incidence of overall death and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE).
Results: Mean age was 70.4 years, and 22(23.2%) had cerebrovascular disease (CBVD). A total of 49(51.6%) of patients had prior cardiac surgery intervention and 8(8.5%) had prior aortic valve replacement. Twenty-eight patients(28.8%) presented with aortic dissection, 60(61.8%) had aortic aneurysm, 4(4.1%) had intramural hematoma, and 5(5.1%) had other presentations. An emergent procedure was performed in 6(6.2%) patients, an urgent procedure in 37(38.1%) patients and 54(55.7%) patients had an elective procedure. Intraoperatively, 78.3% had percutaneous TEVAR, 5.1% had ministernotomy TEVAR, while 10.3% had concomitant full sternotomy TEVAR repair. Hospital mortality was 7 patients(7.2%). At 8-years follow-up, 76% were alive, 25.8% had MACCE, 21.6% were diagnosed with endoleaks(13 patients type II and 2 patients type 1) while 10.3% un-derwent repeat intervention.
Conclusions: This single center experience in patients undergoing TEVAR evidenced good short and long-term survival and MACCE. Nonetheless, almost half of the patients underwent an ur-gent/emergent procedure, clinical results were favourable for TEVAR.
The Cell Wall Characterization of Brown Alga Cladosiphon okamuranus during Growth
Authors: Miwa Yuka , Awanthi Mahanama Geegana Gamage , Soga Kouichi , Tanaka Atsuko , Ito Michihiro , Numata Yuichiro , Sato Yoichi , Konishi Teruko
Published: August 2023

The present study provides new insights into the growth of brown algal cell wall by showing that cell wall polysaccharide plays an important role in the process of growth consider- ing the physicochemical characteristic of young and old Cladosiphon okamuranus. To determine its structural variation in detail, the cell wall was sequentially fractionated into five fractions: hot water (HW), ammonium oxalate, hemicellulose-I (HC–I), HC-II, and cellulose, and analyzed physicochemically. Results showed that almost 80% of the total recovery cell wall from both young and old thalli was HW and HC-I contained mainly fucoidan composed of Fuc, GlcA, and sulfate in molar ratios of 1.0: 0.3: 0.6~0.7 and 1.0: 0.3: 0.2~0.3, respectively. Fucoidan in HW was a highly sulfated matrix polysaccharide abundance in young thalli, while fucoidan in HC-I was rich in old thalli and functions as hemicellulose in land plants, crosslink with cellulose and strengthen the cell wall. We found that HW and HC-I were particularly involved in the growth and strength of old thalli appeared to be due to the deposition of HC-I and reducing of water content during the growth process.
Research on Short-Term Passenger Flow Prediction of LSTM Rail Transit Based on Wavelet Denoising
Authors: Zhao Qingliang , Feng Xiaobin , Zhang Liwen , Wang Yiduo
Published: August 2023

Urban rail transit offers advantages like high safety, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness. With cities rapidly expanding, travelers are increasingly using rail systems, heightening demands for passenger capacity and efficiency while also pressuring these networks. Passenger flow forecasting is an essential part of transportation systems. Short-term passenger flow forecasting for rail transit can estimate future station volumes, providing valuable data to guide operations management and mitigate congestion. This paper investigates short-term forecasting for Suzhou's Shantang Street station. Shantang Street's high commercial presence and distinct weekday versus weekend ridership patterns make it an interesting test case. Wavelet denoising and LSTM modeling were combined to predict short-term flows, comparing the results to standalone LSTM and SVR approaches. This study illustrates that the adopted algorithms exhibit good performance for passenger prediction. The LSTM model with wavelet denoising proved most accurate, demonstrating applicability for short-term rail transit forecasting and practical significance.
Theory of Morphodynamic Information Processing: Linking Sensing to Behaviour
Authors: Juusola Mikko , Takalo Jouni , Kemppainen Joni , Razban Haghighi Keivan , Scales Ben , McManus James , Chittka Lars
Published: August 2023

The traditional understanding of brain function has predominantly focused on chemical and electrical processes. However, new research in fruit fly (Drosophila) binocular vision reveals ultrafast photomechanical photoreceptor movements significantly enhance information processing, thereby impacting a fly's perception of its environment and behaviour. The coding advantages resulting from these mechanical processes suggest that similar physical motion-based coding strategies may affect neural communication ubiquitously. The theory of neural morphodynamics proposes that rapid biomechanical movements and microstructural changes at the level of neurons and synapses enhance the speed and efficiency of sensory information processing, intrinsic thoughts, and actions by regulating neural information in a phasic manner. We propose that morphodynamic information processing evolved to drive predictive coding, synchronising cognitive processes across neural networks to match the behavioural demands at hand effectively.
Variability of bone and mineral metabolism response to hormone replacement therapy in women with surgical menopause
Authors:   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Kareva E.N. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Kochina N.A. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Krasnoshchok E.V. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Kruchinina E.V. ,   M.F.Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research Clinical Institute, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Moscow Regional Research Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Gorenkova O.S. ,   Medical Center “Diagnostics”, Moscow, Russian Federation, Smoleva S.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: August 2023

Patients with surgical menopause rapidly develop signs of osteopenia and osteoporosis. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause increases bone mineral density (BMD). However, the positive metabolic effects of HRT vary widely. The variability of response to HRT may depend on the sensitivity of these cells to steroid hormones, i.e., the level of steroid receptors in them. An indirect indicator of the sensitivity of osteoclasts to HRT components can be the level of transcription of estradiol and progesterone receptors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Objective. To determine the transcriptome of PBMCs in patients with surgical menopause against the background of HRT using a combination of 1 mg estradiol and 5 mg dydrogesterone in cyclic regimen and to study its effect on BMD. Patients and methods. A total of 16 women aged 40–55 years with a duration of surgical menopause ranging from 12 months to 6 years were examined. An inclusion criterion for this study was the absence of contraindications for HRT. The subject of the study was determination of BMD by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and expression levels of estradiol and progesterone receptor genes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results. Comparative analysis of estrogen and progesterone gene expression in PBMCs revealed a difference in gene expression: a 2-fold decrease in membrane estradiol receptor (mER) expression (p = 0.0420), a 2-fold decrease in nuclear estradiol receptor (ERβ) expression (p = 0.0295), and a 3-fold decrease in nuclear progesterone receptor (PR-B) expression (p = 0.0480) in PBMCs of patients in the group with no HRT effect on BMD. Conclusion. Estradiol (mER and ERβ) and progesterone (PR-B) receptor mRNA levels in PBMCs of women with surgical menopause may serve as a prognostic marker of treatment efficacy. Key words: menopause, hormone replacement therapy, bone mineral density, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, dydrogesterone, estradiol
Bacille Calmette-Guérin Vaccine–Induced Tuberculous Elbow Osteomyelitis in an Infant
Authors: Ishibashi Shigeki , Kodama Akira , Maruyama Natsuki , Tanaka Teruyasu , Hayashi Yuta , Shinomiya Rikuo , Okada Satoshi , Adachi Nobuo
Published: August 2023

Case:

We report a case of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine–induced osteomyelitis of the distal end of the right humerus in a 1-year and 8-month–old girl. The patient was treated with debridement and a 12-month antituberculosis drug. After 3 years of follow-up, no growth disturbances or sequelae were observed.

Conclusion:

BCG osteomyelitis is difficult to diagnose because of its rarity. It is important to suspect BCG osteomyelitis based on symptoms and blood tests and to perform PCR testing. Long-term follow-up after treatment is necessary to monitor for recurrence and avoid growth disturbances until epiphyseal line closure occurs.
Análisis de la percepción de los estudiantes de Medicina Veterinaria de la Universidad Científica del Sur acerca del estado de salud de sus caninos utilizando alimento comercial, alimento casero y alimento crudo
Authors:   , Marcani Mendoza Gianella Karina
Published: August 2023

En los últimos años se ha observado a partir de los propietarios de las mascotas, una mayor consideración al alimento que le brindan a sus mascotas, tomando en cuenta la variedad de alimentos que existen en el mercado y buscando que estos aporten a una mejor salud. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la perspectiva de los 90 dueños que a su vez son estudiantes de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia sobre la salud de sus perros que consumen un alimento comercial, un alimento casero y un alimento crudo. Los canes que se evaluaron estaban divididos en tres grupos equitativos; los que consumían alimento comercial, otros que consumían alimento casero y el último grupo que consumía alimento crudo. Las encuestas se dividieron en grupos de 30 por cada tipo de dieta, cada encuesta incluyo 13 preguntas con el fin de poder evaluar cuál era el alimento que mostraba más beneficios la salud de los perros. El estudio se dividió en dos partes, la primera incluyó las variables edad y tipo de alimento, para formalizar los grupos de interés y se obtuvo un Alfa de Cronbach de 0.761 y un Omega McDonald de 0.745. Para el análisis de componentes principales se obtuvo un KMO de 0,73. En la segunda parte se cuantifico el efecto de la edad y tipo de alimento sobre los componentes formados, se volvió a correr un análisis de componente principales, se estimaron valores de KMO de 0.783 y la determinante de 0.08 lo que indicó que se puede aplicar un análisis factorial. La prueba de esfericidad de Bartlett obtuvo un valor de Chi cuadrado de 213 con valor de p <0.001. Se aplicó un modelo de regresión logística multinomial y los estimados de Odds Ratio fueron obtenidos del modelo 2. La evaluación de la parte estadística concluyo que la mayoría de dueños de los canes tuvieron una mejor percepción de la salud de las mascotas que consumían un alimento comercial.
Carga de enfermedad por cáncer en mujeres en el Perú, en el período de 1990 al 2019: análisis de los datos del Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors:   , Lizárraga Pareja María Fernanda , Lezama Aguirre Claudia Milagros
Published: August 2023

Objetivo: Se procedió a analizar los datos de carga de enfermedad por cáncer de mujeres de todas las edades desde el 1990 hasta el 2019 y evaluar su evolución según su edad y tipo de cáncer. Materiales y Métodos: Este es un estudio de tipo descriptivo de fuente secundaria, de datos del “The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation” sobre carga de enfermedad en mujeres de todas las edades con cáncer en el Perú en el periodo de 1990 al 2019. Resultados: En el 2019 la mayor proporción de AVAD en mujeres de todas las edades se produjo por el cáncer de cérvix (63410.1), continuando por el cáncer de estómago (57936.6) y en tercer lugar el cáncer de mama (54927.3) respectivamente. La suma de los AVAD de las tres causas principales fue de 176274. La suma de los AVAD totales fue de 312587,6. AVD y AVP representaron el 3% y el 97%, respectivamente. Conclusiones: En conclusión, se puede apreciar que existe un evidente aumento de la carga de la enfermedad por cáncer entre el año 1990 al 2019.
Estimación de translocación bacteriana mediante cuantificación de zonulina y su potencial como biomarcador pronóstico de muerte en una cohorte de pacientes Covid-19 moderados y severos
Authors:   , Palomino Kobayashi Luciano Augusto
Published: August 2023

La zonulina se ha relacionado previamente con la permeabilidad intestinal en diversas enfermedades inflamatorias y, más recientemente, con la fisiopatología de infecciones graves por COVID-19. Nosotros analizamos muestras de suero de un estudio previo de una cohorte peruana de pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19, para la cuantificación de zonulina por ELISA sándwich. Se realizaron comparaciones con datos clínicos, parámetros hematológicos y bioquímicos y niveles de citoquinas/quimioquinas. Encontramos niveles de zonulina basales más altos en pacientes fallecidos, y la zonulina se asoció con desenlace fatal en análisis multivariable, incluso después de ajustar por presencia de comorbilidades, severidad y sexo. También hubo correlaciones positivas entre los valores de zonulina, creatinina, dímero D y tiempo de protrombina, mientras que se encontraron correlaciones inversas para el cociente Sa/FiO2 y CCL5 (RANTES). Se recomiendan más estudios longitudinales para analizar la variación de los niveles de zonulina a lo largo del tiempo, así como su relación con COVID persistente.
Numerical Simulation of Three-Dimensional Soil Arch Effect Between h-type Pile Based Discrete Element Method
Authors: Shi Chong , Zhang Cong , Dong Jiahao , Pian Junbao
Published: August 2023

The h-type pile (hTP pile) is a complex anti-slip pile system, which connects the front pile and the back pile through beams. When it is used in engineering, there is a complex soil arch effect between the soil and the hTP pile, which makes the complex anti-slip mechanism. In this paper, the discrete element method (PFC) is used to establish the hTP pile models, analyse the displacement and stress distribution law of the soil body, investigate the spatial distribution and variation patterns of soil arches, this can provide a basis for the design of hTP. The results indicate that the soil arch structure formed under the displacement between hTPs can be divided into four stages: initial stage, development stage, overlapping stage and stable stage. The development speed of the soil arch between the rear piles is slower than that of the soil arch between the former piles. As the depth of the soil increases, the arch line of the soil arch gets closer to the rear pile; The soil arch of the stress between hTPs can be divided into initial stage, development stage and stable stage. The time step corresponding to the stable stage of the stress in the horizontal direction is equal to the sum of the horizontal displacement generated by the overlapping stage and the stabilization stage. The stress of the soil slope gradually decreases and extends from the surface to the bottom layer of the slope; Soil arches appear on the rear side of both the front and rear piles at different anti-slip pile spacing, and they all tend to overlap. The increase in pile spacing does not have a significant effect on theratio of soil arch height and soil arch span, and the evolution of soil arch is similar between hTP at different pile spacing. All above can provide reference for the application and design of hTPs.
Bibliometric Analysis on Mercury Emissions from Coal-fired Power Plants: A Systematic Review and Future Prospect
Authors: Liu Qi , Gao Jiajia , Li Guoliang , Zheng Yang , Li Rui , Yue Tao
Published: August 2023

Coal-fired power plants (CFPPs) are one of the most significant sources of mercury emissions certified by the Minamata Convention, which has attracted much attention in recent years. In this study, we used the Web of Science (WOS) and CiteSpace to analyze the knowledge structure of this field from 2000 to 2022 and then reviewed it systematically. The field of mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants has developed steadily. The research hotspots can be divided into three categories: 1) emission characterization research focused on speciation changes and emission calculations; 2) emission control research focused on control technologies; 3) environmental impact research focused on environmental pollution and health risk. In conclusion, using an oxygen-rich atmosphere for combustion and installing high-efficiency air pollution control devices (APCDs) helped to reduce the formation of Hg0. The average mercury removal rates of APCDs and modified adsorbents after ultra-low emission retrofit were distributed in the range of 82-93% and 41-100%, respectively. The risk level of mercury in combustion by-products was highest in desulfurization sludge (RAC>10%) and followed by fly ash(10<RAC<30%) and desulfurization gypsum(1<RAC<10%). Additionally, we found that the implementation of pollution and carbon reduction policies in China had reduced mercury emissions from CFPPs by 45% from 2007 to 2015, increased the efficiency of mercury removal from APCDs to a maximum of 96%, and reduced global transport and health risk of atmospheric mercury. The results conjunctively achieved by CiteSpace and the literature review will enhance understanding of CFPPs mercury emissions research and provide new perspectives for future research.
Individual Components of Central Blood Pressure and Aortic Stiffness versus the Integration of Multiple Components in Predicting Cardiovascular Mortality in End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Agharazii Mohsen , Côté Nadège , Fortier Catherine , Desbiens Louis-Charles , Nemcsik János
Published: August 2023

Aortic stiffness, measured by carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity (PWV), is a predictor of cardiovascular (CV) mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Aortic stiffness increases aortic systolic and pulse pressures (cSBP, cPP) and augmentation index (AIx). In this study, we examined if the integration of multiple components of central blood pressure and aortic stiffness (ICPS) into risk score categories could improve CV mortality prediction in ESRD. In a prospective cohort of 311 patients with ESRD on dialysis who underwent vascular assessment at baseline, 118 CV deaths occurred after a medial follow-up of 3.1 years. The relationship between hemodynamic parameters and CV mortality was analyzed through Kaplan-Meier and Cox survival analysis. ICPS risk score from 0 to 5 points were calculated from points given to tertiles, and were regrouped into three risk categories (Average, High, Very High). A strong association was found between the ICPS risk categories and CV mortality (High risk HR = 2.20, 95%CI: 1.05–4.62, P = 0.036; Very High risk (HR = 4.44, 95%CI: 2.21–8.92, P < 0.001). The very high-risk category remained associated with CV mortality (HR = 3.55, 95% CI: 1.37–9.21, P = 0.009) after adjustment for traditional CV risk factors. While ICPS categories showed higher C-statistics (C: 0.627, 95%CI: 0.578–0.676, P = 0.001), it was not statistically superior to PWV, cPP or AIx. In conclusion, integration of multiple components of central blood pressure and aortic stiffness did not result in a significantly better prediction of CV mortality in this cohort.
Identification of a immune-related gene signature as a novel prognostic biomarker of cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Zhou Yutong , Ran Xun , Han Min
Published: August 2023

OBJECTIVE
To construct a prognostic index of immune-related genes for cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL) and to analyse the immune profile as well as the benefits in the subgroups defined by the IRGC model. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN: Nineteen immune-related central genes were identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis based on the TCGA cholangiocarcinoma dataset (n = 45) combined with associated immune genes. Six genes for model building were identified using Cox regression methods and validated using the GEO dataset. Subsequently, the IRGC model was analysed for immune characteristics in the subgroups defined by the IRGC model as well as for benefits. RESULTS: The IRGC model was constructed on the basis of the LECT2,HP,AHSG,F2,RBP4 and APOB genes. Consistent with results from the GEO cohort, overall survival was lower in patients with high IRGC model scores than in those with low scores. The combined results showed that the high-scoring subgroup had a higher rate of IDH1 mutations and high penetration of M0 macrophages. In contrast, the low scoring subgroup had higher levels of activated NK cells, which better inhibited tumour development. CONCLUSION: The IRGC model is a promising biomarker to differentiate the prognostic and immune profile and immune benefit of immunotherapy in CHOL and may be a guide to personalised immunotherapy for patients with cholangiocarcinoma.
Food safety and the health of middle-aged and elderly people: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Mingcong , Ma Qingshan , Sun Qiqi
Published: August 2023

Food safety is among the most important determinants of the health of citizens, the middle-aged and elderly in particular. Chinese governments have introduced policies to ensure food safety, which has attracted wide attention from academia. Based on the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study database from 2011 to 2018, we consider the Food Safety Pilot Cities (FSPCs) introduced by the Food Safety Commission in 2014 as an exogenous shock, and adopt the Staggered Difference in Difference (Staggered DID) method to evaluate the health effects of food safety regulation policy. We find that safeguarding food safety significantly reduced the probability of chronic diseases among the middle-aged and elderly, yet its impact varied according to the age and education level of the individuals. The empirical conclusions still hold after rich robustness tests. We also find that the establishment of pilot cities improved the daily living skills, cognitive abilities and self-assessment health of middle-aged and senior citizens, but showed no obvious influence on mental health. Furthermore, the FSPCs also increase food consumption expenditure by building confidence in food safety among residents. Therefore, it is of significance to take advantage of the role the policy has played on the health of middle-aged and elderly people, so as to achieve harmonious thriving of urban construction as well as human health.
Return to flight duty rates after posterior lumbar spine surgery for symptomatic lumbar disc herniation and lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis in Chinese military pilots
Authors: Yang Fengyuan , Xie Bowen , Zhang Hongxing , Li Tianqi , Mao Jian , Chen Zhiqiang , Peng Ye , Li Tengfei , Sun Siguo , Chen Jingyang , Chen Yufei , Du Junjie
Published: August 2023

Background
Symptomatic lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and lumbar isthmic spondylolisthesis (LIS) can ground active-duty military pilots if not properly managed. Surgically treated LDH and LIS may be waivable conditions and allow return to full flight status, but waivers are based on expert opinion rather than recent published data. The purpose of this study was to determine the rates of return to flight status among Chinese military pilots who had undergone lumbar spine surgery for symptomatic LDH and LIS.
Methods
A single-center retrospective review was conducted by the authors for all active-duty pilots who underwent either isolated decompressive or fusion procedures at an authorized military medical center between March 1, 2007 and March 1, 2023. Descriptive statistics were obtained for patients to evaluate demographic, occupational, surgical, and outcome data with particular attention to preoperative flight status, days to recommended clearance by spine surgeons, and days to return to active flight duty.
Results
Between March 1, 2007, and March 1, 2023, a total of 24 cases of active-duty pilots with LDH or LIS treated by lumbar surgery were identified. Of these, 16 underwent isolated decompressive procedures and 8 underwent fusion procedures. Seventeen (70.8%) of the 24 pilots treated with lumbar spine surgeries were able to return to flight duty (RTFD). Excluding the 1 pilot who retired within 1 year of surgery and the 2 pilots who did not return to active flight duty for reasons other than lumbar conditions, the RTFD rate is actually 81.0% (17 of 21). The average time to clearance by the spine surgeons was 256 days and average time to return to full flight was 339 days. The average follow-up time was 2.6 years.
Conclusion
Lumbar surgery appears to be safe for military aviators with symptomatic LDH or LIS, and return to flight status is the most likely outcome for the majority of postoperative pilots.