bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of Functionalized Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose/Sodium alginate-Based Tween (80) for Potential Allocation of Linezolid as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: El-bana Afaf Adel , Abdelghany Amr Mohamed , Meikhail Mahrous Shaker
Published: April 2022

Innovative adhesive bio-films were developed for antimicrobial wound bandages. The bio-films are prepared by blending natural polymers such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium alginate with a surfactant as Tween(80) and loaded with Linezolid drug as antimicrobial agents. In this paper, polymeric films were prepared by casting film-forming method. Prefatory studies comprised XRD, FTIR, UV/vis spectroscopy, and SEM to specify lattice structure, interactions, optical properties, and morphology. Antibacterial analysis was also performed by agar well diffusion tests. The effect of bio-film composition on E.coli, P.aeuroginosa, S.aureus, B.subtilis standard bacteria, and C.albicans pathogenic fungus was studied and compared with biomaterial film without Linezolid drug. The in vitro antibacterial assay of bio-films formulations was assessed in bacterial and fungal strains, showing a significant activity over time rather than control bio-film. Finally, the preparation of biomaterial films loaded with Linezolid drug (antimicrobial wound dressings) is an environmentally friendly solution that may contribute to the development of wound healing.
Implication of population density on biodiversity of Human-Commensal Drosophila Species in Nigeria
Authors: Abdulazeez R , Akhadelor M. O. , Gbadamosi Monsurat T. , Iyeola-Tunji A.O , Shehu D. M , Ndams I.S
Published: April 2022

Environmental conditions and anthropogenic activities at various temporal and spatial scales tend to shape the patterns of biodiversity. The family Drosophilidae serves as good bio indicator model in understanding ecological indices and species diversity interactions. The potential of Drosophila to serve as an environmental indicator lies on the cosmopolitan nature of this group and the sensitivity of the flies to environmental variables. This study analyzed the biodiversity of human-commensal Drosophila inhabiting vegetable markets located within the salt water mangrove (SWM), fresh water mangrove (FWM), rain forest (RF) and Southern Guinea Savanna (SGS) vegetation regions of Nigeria. Collections were made from sixteen (l6) vegetable markets using fermented banana as bait. A total of 1,077 fruit flies, composed of four different species of Drosophila belonging to the subgenera Sophophora, Zaprionus and an unidentified species were collected. Drosophila melanogaster of the subgenus Sophophora was predominant (82.5%) in all the sampled vegetation zones while the unidentified fruit fly species was the least (0.7%). The Simpson Diversity Index was lowest (0.13) for Southern Guinea Savanna indicating a higher diversity of fruit flies in the zone. The ecological index of temperature was significantly negatively correlated (-0.965) with Drosophila species diversity while human population was significantly positively correlated (0.832) with biodiversity. The results suggest D. melanogaster as the predominant human-commensal species irrespective of environmental factors and significant impacts of temperature and human population on the biodiversity of human-commensal Drosophila in Nigeria.
Conversion of foliar residues of the ornamental species Sansevieria trifasciata into adsorbents: the study of dye adsorption in continuous and discontinuous systems
Authors: Grassi Patrícia , Netto Matias Schadeck , Jahn Sérgio Luiz , Georgin Jordana , Franco Dison S.P. , Sillanpää Mika , Meili Lucas , Silva Luis F. O.
Published: April 2022

The species Sansevieria trifasciata is very widespread around the world both for its ornamental use and profusely spread among religions of African origin. The study analyzed the potential of leaf powder prepared from the residual leaves of the species Sansevieria trifasciata, as a potential adsorbent for methylene blue (MB) removal in a discontinuous system. For the batch study, the equilibrium was reached fast for almost all concentrations after 60 min, obtaining the maximum capacity of 139.98 mg.g− 1 for 200 mg.L− 1. The increase in temperature disfavored the dye adsorption, with the maximum adsorption capacity of 225.8 mg.g− 1, observed for 298 K. The thermodynamic parameters confirmed that the adsorption process is spontaneous and exothermic. A direct sloping curve was established for the fixed bed, with breakthrough time (tb) of 1430, 1130, and 525 min for 100, 200, and 500 mg.L− 1, respectively. The column stoichiometric capacities (qeq) and the mass transfer zone lengths (Zm) were 60.48, 187.01, 322.65 mg.g− 1, and 8.81, 11.28 and 10.71 cm, for concentrations of 100, 200, and 500 mg.L− 1, correspondingly. Furthermore, in a mixture of several dyes, the adsorbent obtained the removal of 51% of the color.
MiR-647 Targeting PRKCA to Regulate the Activation of Human Atrial Fibroblasts Through TGFβ1/Smad Pathway
Authors: Yan Yang , Han Dan , Tian Hongyan
Published: April 2022

Background
Atrial remodeling is the main pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Interstitial fibrosis is an important part of atrial remodeling, mainly involving the activation of atrial fibroblasts. Nowadays, studies have focused on miRNAs in regulating fibroblasts in AF related atrial fibrosis, however, the molecular mechanism of this pathological process is not fully understood.
Methods
Cell experiments were carried out to investigate the mechanism of miR-647 targeting PRKCA gene in regulating atrial fibrosis of AF. CCK-8, transwell, immunofluorescence assays were applied to observe the proliferation, migration and the phenotypic transformation of the human atrial fibroblasts. qRT-PCR and WB were used to detect the collagen production, expression levels of α-SMA and TGFβ1/Smad pathway.
Results
The results of CCK-8, transwell and immunofluorescence assays showed that miR-647 inhibited the proliferation, migration and the fluorescence intensity of α-SMA of the human atrial fibroblasts. QRT-PCR and WB showed that miR-647 could significantly attenuate the expression levels of fibrosis related Collagen I and III, α-SMA and TGFβ1/Smad pathway by targeting PRKCA.
Conclusion
MiR-647 targeting PRKCA gene regulates the activation of human atrial fibroblasts through the TGFβ1/Smad pathway.
Circulating circular RNA hsa_circ_0023179 acts as a diagnostic biomarker for non-small-cell lung cancer detection
Authors: Ju Shaoqing , Zhang Qi , Qin Shiyi , Peng Chunlei , Liu Yupeng , Huang Yuejiao
Published: April 2022

Background: Lung cancer, the most prevalent cancer-related death worldwide, still lacks the means for early diagnosis. Because of the unique properties of the loop that make it stable in body fluids, circular RNAs (circRNAs) as a biomarker becomes a possibility. This research purposed to explore whether hsa_circ_0023179 can be applied as a possible biomarker for the early diagnosis and prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Methods: hsa_circ_0023179 was screened by high-throughput sequencing of three pairs of NSCLC tissues and their surrounding tissues. Agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE), Sanger sequencing, exonuclease digestion assay, and actinomycin D were used to affirm the molecular properties of circRNA. Precision determination was performed by placement at room temperature and multiple freeze-thawing test for methodological evaluation. The expression of hsa_circ_0023179 in tissues, serum, and cells was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to establish the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to assess the diagnostic efficacy of hsa_circ_0023179.Results: hsa_circ_0023179 conforms to the basic properties of circRNA, and the detection method of hsa_circ_0023179 has good stability and repeatability. Its expression was connected to histological type, TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, and distal metastasis in NSCLC tissues, serum, and cells. Compared with traditional tumor markers with higher sensitivity and specificity. A combined diagnosis can significantly improve the diagnostic value. The decrease in postoperative expression level suggests some potential for dynamic monitoring.Conclusion: hsa_circ_0023179 might be a promising novel serum marker for the detection and prediction of NSCLC.
Intraoperative angiography of the neurovascular bundle using indocyanine green and near-infrared fluorescence improves anatomical dissection during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: initial clinical experience
Authors: Amara Nordine , Youssef Tarek Al , Massa Jordan , Fidjel Aouad , Khoury Elias El , Patel Belur , Flais Mathias , Deswarte Christophe
Published: April 2022

Background: Landmark artery identification in the neurovascular bundle (NVB) is important for nerve-sparing in radical prostatectomy. We aimed to investigate intraoperative angiography using indocyanine green and near-infrared fluorescence (ICG-NIRF) during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) to identify the NVB, visualise vascularisation and haemostasis, and preserve erectile function.Methods: Retrospective, unicentric study of 91 consecutive localised prostate cancer RARP patients (stage T1/T2, prostate specific antigen <10 ng/ml) who underwent ICG-NIRF angiography in France (2016–2021). When ready to dissect the NVB, the anaesthesiologist intravenously injected ICG (3 ml); the surgeon used alternating standard light or fluorescence to optimise NVB visualisation and facilitate microdissection. Primary outcomes: safety and feasibility of ICG-NIRF. Secondary outcomes: functional erectile dysfunction (Sexual Health Inventory for Men questionnaire) over 9 months, proportion of bilateral NVBs identified, ICG-related complications. Standard descriptive statistics were used; t-test determined the significance of changes in SHIM scores versus baseline. Results: Ninety-one patients received intraoperative angiography. The NVB was identified in all cases, without difficulties. No ICG-related complications or allergies were observed. There was no significant difference in the SHIM score at 9 months compared with baseline (p=0.331), and erectile dysfunction returned to baseline levels in almost all patients.Conclusions: Intraoperative, real-time ICG-NIRF angiography is simple, non-invasive, and improves identification of key anatomical landmarks to optimise micropreservation of the NVB during RARP and preserve erectile function. Larger clinical studies should confirm preliminary results.
Seroprevalence study prior and post vaccination in Cancer patients in Principality of Andorra (COVONCO study)
Authors: Royo-Cebrecos Cristina , Robert-Montaner Ïa , Vilanova David , Bailles Eva , Serrano-Pons Jordi , Valero Oliver , Buldon Josep Maria , Bermudez-de-Castro Leticia , Mahia Eva , Pujadas Jaume , Cobo Francesc , Piqué Josep Maria , Albiol Santiago
Published: April 2022

Background: COVID-19 serologic response in patients with cancer may be lower than in the general population and may be influenced by the type of tumor or anticancer treatment. This study aims to analyze serological response prior and after vaccination of COVID-19 within the oncological population in Andorra. We set out to identify risk factors for a higher or lower serological response. Patients and methodsObservational, unicentric, prospective cohort study of oncologic patients in Andorra. We calculated seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 (May 2020-June 2021) and analyzed the main demographic, oncologic features and factors associated with being seropositive. ResultsA total of 373 patients were analyzed, mainly with solid malignancies (n = 334, 89.5%). At baseline, seroprevalence was 13%, increasing during follow-up to 19%; lower seroprevalence was observed in patients with hematologic malignancies (2.6% vs 14.2%; p= 0.041) and patients receiving biological therapies (0% vs 15%, p=0.005). In the overall seroprevalence analysis, women (23% vs 11.9%; p=0.006) and tumour-free patients (p=0.034) showed higher seroprevalence. The multivariable analysis showed that odds of being seropositive were higher among women (OR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.28-4.64), and patients who underwent a surgery (OR: 3.35, 95% CI: 1.10-10.20). About 80% of the cohort received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccination, showing a higher seroprevalence of patients who received ChAdOx1-S than those who received BNT162b2 (24.4% vs 6.4%: p=0.001). ConclusionThe seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-COV-2 in oncologic patients in Andorra was higher among females and patients who received hormonal therapy and surgery while patients with hematologic malignancies and biologic therapies showed lower seropositivity without finding differences in the type of tumour or anticancer treatment.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward COVID-19 among the general population: A cross-sectional Study in Kankan Guinea
Authors: Demba Mara , KAPASA Rigobert LOTOKO , TADY Camara , NAJAT Halabi , Abdelaziz HANNOUN , BOUADDI Oumnia , RAJI Mohamed , CHAFIQ Nadia , BELOUALI Radouane , KHALIS Mohamed , WALLANT Yves COPPIETERS'T
Published: April 2022

Implementing decisive and effective infection prevention and control measures requires a good understanding of the state of knowledge among the general population, in order to identify existing gaps and respond adequately. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to COVID-19 among the public in Kankan Guinea, with a view to understanding socio-demographic factors that are associated with poor KAP. In total, 1230 Guineans participated in this study.The majority of respondents (60%) had good knowledge about COVID-19. However, only 44% of respondents below 29 years old had a good level of knowledge about COVID-19. Male participants had a higher level of knowledge about COVID-19 compared to female participants (P = 0.003). The majority of participants (82%) had negative attitudes towards COVID-19 and 61% of respondents reported good practices related to COVID-19 measures. In this study, being female was a risk factor for poor knowledge about COVID-19 (P < 0,001) and being single was a risk factor for negative attitudes towards COVID-19 (P = 0,009). Appropriate measures should be undertaken to raise public awareness and improve widespread practice of preventive measures aimed at reducing the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
Airway-resident functional T cell responses against SARS-CoV-2 in unexposed individuals
Authors: Maini Mala , Diniz Mariana , Mitsi Elena , Swadling Leo , Rylance Jamie , Ferreira Daniela
Published: April 2022

T cells can contribute to clearance of respiratory viruses that cause acute-resolving infections like SARS-CoV-2, helping to provide long-lived protection against disease following infection. Recent studies suggested an additional role for T cells in resisting overt infection; pre-existing cross-reactive responses to the highly conserved SARS-CoV-2 replication transcription complex (RTC) were preferentially enriched in healthcare workers who had abortive infections (1) and non-spike cross-reactive T cells were associated with protection against infection in household contacts (2). We hypothesise that such early viral control would require pre-existing cross-reactive memory T cells already resident at the site of infection. Airway-resident CD4+T cells have been shown to be critical for mediating protection following intra-nasal vaccination in a murine model of SARS-CoV3, but have not been reported in the context of human SARS-CoV-2. We used bronchoalveolar lavage samples from the lower respiratory tract of healthy donors obtained prior to the COVID-19 pandemic to probe for T cell specificities previously found to be preferentially enriched in the blood of donors with abortive infection(1). Our data reveal the potential to harness functional airway-resident SARS-CoV-2-reactive T cells in next-generation mucosal vaccines.
Haptoglobin polymorphism modulates cardiometabolic impacts of four consecutive weeks, dawn to sunset Ramadan intermittent fasting among subjects with overweight/obesity
Authors: Madkour Mohamed , Sherif Naglaa M. , Hasan Rasha , Awadallah Samir , Abdelrahim Dana , Jahrami Haitham , Hazim Katia , Faris MoezAlIslam
Published: April 2022

Aims
Haptoglobin (Hp) is a multifaceted marker of inflammation, and mediates the interplay between obesity, inflammation, and cardiometabolic dysfunction. However, the role of the Hp phenotype in modulating intermittent fasting (IF)-induced changes in cardiometabolic markers remains to be elucidated.
Methods
Hp phenotype was determined for the study subjects. Cardiometabolic markers were assessed before and at the end of four consecutive weeks, dawn to sunset IF.
Results
A total of 114 subjects (75 males and 39 females, 38.7 ± 11.7 years, body mass index (BMI) of 30.41 ± 5.09 kg/m2) were recruited. Hp2-2 (n = 55, 48.2%) and Hp2-1 (n = 53, 46.5%) were the predominant phenotypes. Significant reductions were observed in serum Hp, IL-6, TNF-α, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), LDL, BMI, fat mass (FM), while the significant elevation was observed in serum CD163, HDL, and IL-10 at the end of the IF month for the whole population. Based on the Hp polymorphism, significant decreases in Hp, BMI, FM, TG, LDL, and TNF-α, with significant increases in HDL and CD163 levels were observed among subjects with Hp2-2 and Hp2-1 phenotypes. A more pronounced reduction in FM was reported in subjects with Hp2-2 in comparison with Hp2-1.
Conclusion
Hp gene polymorphism modulates IF-induced changes in cardiometabolic markers.
Using a Participatory Approach to Develop Research Priorities for Future Leaders in Precision Public Health
Authors: Roberts Megan C , Mader June Mullaney , Turbitt Erin , Smit Amelia , Landry Latrice , Olstad Dana Lee , Passero Lauren E , Allen Caitlin G
Published: April 2022

Precision public health is an emerging discipline combining principles and frameworks of precision health with the goal of improving population health. The development of research priorities drawing on the strengths of precision and public health is critical to facilitate the growth of the discipline to improve health outcomes. We held an interactive workshop during a virtual conference bringing together early-career researchers across public health disciplines to identify research priorities in precision public health. The workshop participants discussed and voted to identify three priority areas for future research and capacity building including 1) enhancing equity and access to precision public health research and resources, 2) improving tools and metrics for evaluation and 3) applying principles of implementation science to support sustainable practices. Participants also developed future objectives for achieving each priority. Future efforts by working groups will continue the process of identifying, revising, and advancing critical research priorities to grow the impact of precision public health.
Streptococcus suis: an emerging and lethal pathogen in snakeskin gourami, Trichopodus pectoralis
Authors: Dinh-Hung Nguyen , Dong Ha Thanh , Taengphu Suwimon , Soontara Chayanit , Rodkhum Channarong , Senapin Saengchan , Chatchaiphan Satid
Published: April 2022

The objective of this study was to determine the causative agent of an outbreak with clinical signs similar to those of piscine streptococcosis in farmed snakeskin gourami (Trichopodus pectoralis). Initial microscopic examination revealed the predominance of a Gram-positive, cocci bacteria in the brain and kidney of the diseased fish. This bacterium was successfully isolated and identified as Streptococcus suis based on nucleotide homology of 16S rDNA and species-specific PCR. Experimental infection was then performed to investigate the pathogenicity of the bacterium and its histopathological manifestation. Naïve juvenile and adult snakeskin gourami were injected intraperitoneally with a low dose (1.2×105 CFU/fish) and a high dose (1.2×107 CFU/fish) of S. suis. Cumulative mortality appeared to be dose- and size-dependent. Experimentally diseased fish exhibited clinical signs consistent with naturally diseased fish. Severe histopathological changes in multiple organs were observed in both juvenile and adult fish, including meningitis, severe congestion in the brain and eyes, thickened stromal layers of the retina, severe hepatic lipidosis and tissue degeneration. Notably, numerous granulomas containing massive bacterial cells in the necrotic core were observed in the infected fish. Relatively pure colonies of S. suis were recovered from tissues of experimentally diseased fish. Taken together, this study fulfilled Koch’s postulates, indicating that S. suis is a newly emerging piscine pathogen. Although this is a case report, public awareness and biosecurity measures should be considered to prevent the spread of the disease. Further surveillance of the pathogen's distribution and research into the underlying causes of fish-host adaptation will provide insights into the genuine impact and appropriate disease control strategies.
A Novel Pythagorean Renyi's-Tsallis Discriminant Information Measure and its Applications in Decision Making
Authors: Kadian Ratika , Kumar Satish
Published: April 2022

The Pythagorean fuzzy set (PFS) which is an expansion of intuitionistic fuzzy set, is more capable of expressing and handling the uncertainty under uncertain environment. In this paper, a novel Pythagorean information measure has been proposed along with its various properties for probability distributions and Pythagorean fuzzy sets. The new Pythagorean discriminant information measure has some desirable merits. We justify necessity of the newly proposed method using counterintuitive examples. To implement the application of Pythagorean measures in real life problem, we have taken real data from the repository of machine learning. After that we transform the real data set into PF-environment. Thereafter, by using the idea of degree of confidence the potential of proposed measure has been discussed. By contrasting the various methods it is found that the new divergence measure is more efficient as compared to other methods.
Virtual Reality im modernen Englischunterricht und das Potenzial für Inter- und Transkulturelles Lernen
Authors: Steinbock Jeanine , Hein Rebecca , Eisenmann Maria , Latoschik Marc Erich , Wienrich Carolin
Published: April 2022

Der Aufbau von inter- und transkulturellen Kompetenzen im modernen Englischunterricht verlangt nach authentischen, kulturübergreifenden Begegnungs- und Kommunikationssituationen. Virtual Reality (VR) als Ort der Partizipation und Konstruktion kann dem Erwerb kultureller Kompetenzen zentrale Vorteile bieten, die die physischen Grenzen des Klassenzimmers auflösen und Lernende weltweit in authentische Kommunikationssituationen mit Lernenden treten lassen. Als Teil des Forschungsinteresses soll dabei untersucht werden, inwiefern Avatare, Kontexte und virtuelle Objekte Initiatoren und Begleiter kultureller Lernprozesse sein können. Für den Forschungsfokus auf virtuelle Objekte wurde eigens das InteractionSuitcase entwickelt, eine Sammlung virtueller Objekte, die unterschiedliche Stereotypisierungsgrade aufweisen und von Lernenden in der Kommunikationssituation genutzt werden können. Aufbauend auf dieser Entwicklung wurde ein universitäres Seminarkonzept entwickelt, in dem die Studierenden handlungs- und produktorientiert Unterrichtskonzepte für den Einsatz von VR im Fremdsprachenunterricht entwerfen. Ziel dieses Beitrages ist, die Entwicklung der VR-Welt und des Seminarkonzeptes vor dem Hintergrund medien- und kulturdidaktischer sowie empirischer Überlegungen vorzustellen (1) und anschliessend über die Ergebnisse der empirischen Begleitforschung zu berichten (2).
An Investigation of Factors Affecting the Rooting Ability of Hardwood Muscadine Cuttings
Authors: Buck Kenneth , Worthington Margaret , Conner Patrick J.
Published: April 2022

Rooting hardwood cuttings from muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia Michx. syn. Muscadinia rotundifolia) vines has traditionally been considered an exceptionally difficult task. Many previous studies observed almost no root formation, leading to a general consensus that muscadines should either be propagated by softwood cuttings or vegetative layering. However, the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Fruit Breeding Program has been using a hardwood rooting protocol for muscadines with moderate success for the past 10 years. The application of this protocol to meet the modest propagation needs of the breeding program has significantly shortened the time required to advance selections. The goal of this research was to more adequately describe the factors affecting the rooting ability of hardwood muscadine cuttings. This research investigated the effects of cultivar, bottom heat, cold storage, vineyard location, and cutting collection date on the outcome of muscadine hardwood cuttings. The study was conducted during the dormant seasons of 2019–20 and 2020–21, and an overall rooting percentage of 16% was observed. There were multiple higher-order interactions affecting rooting efficacy. Cuttings taken in November generally rooted at higher rates, although interactions with vineyard location and cultivar played a significant role in those results. The Ocilla, GA, location performed exceptionally well in November with rooting percentages greater than 40%. The effects of supplying bottom heat and/or a cold storage treatment on rooting success declined as the dormant season progressed. Other variables such as increased cutting length and diameter were associated with increased rooting success. A second statistical analysis using only data from November showed that when cuttings were not given a cold storage treatment that rooting percentages were greater than 27%. Ultimately, this research shows that institutions with modest muscadine propagation needs can successfully propagate plants from hardwood cuttings.
Investigating the performance of emailed apologies by Australian learners of Italian
Authors: Walker Talia
Published: April 2022

This paper explores the strategies chosen by Australian learners of Italian when performing emailed apologies in Italian. Through a modified discourse completion task, 42 participants produced a total of 317 emails. This paper presents an adapted typology of these emailed apologies in Italian which, while drawing on previous literature, has been tailored to be more specific to and therefore more effective in the analysis of the data collected in this project. It was found that the apology act as performed by Australian learners of Italian consists of two principal components, the apology and the repair, the latter of which is optional but is usually included. In addition, supportive strategies can be included prior to or following either of these components to strengthen the illocutionary force of the apology act. The analysis also evidenced that while a broad speech act structure can be identified, the apology act is a complex phenomenon which can be performed with great variation.
The Future of Main Street: Retail Shrinkage
Authors: Talen Emily
Published: April 2022

Most of the discussion about what to do about dying main streets has focused on use flexibility. This paper focuses on quantity and coverage – how many and where should main streets be located? The current physical spread of traditional main streets is a product of an earlier
age when miles of storefronts were surrounded by high-density neighbourhoods. Not enough a ention is paid to the need for 'smart shrinkage' – i.e. the need to drastically reduce the amount of land given over – i.e. zoned – as commercial space. Focusing on struggling commercial
corridors in one large American city, Chicago, I lay out the factors to consider in deciding priority areas, including population, business, and street characteristics, and include suggestions about what planners and urbanists should aim for in the next decade.
Clinical features of bronchial asthma in children with mental disorders
Authors: Ryngachenko E. S. , Novak A. A. , Kireeva I. P. , Sokolova L. V. , Mizernitskiy Yu. L.
Published: April 2022

The article discusses the role of the central nervous system, including mental disorders, in bronchial asthma in children. This problem has been of interest to practicing pediatricians and researchers for a long time, but so far it has not had unambiguous solutions. The authors have a diverse approach to its assessment, leaning towards the modern concept of ‘psychopathological’ or ‘psychological’ diathesis put forward by S.Yu. Tsyrkin. On specific clinical examples, the authors clearly demonstrated the influence of mental disorders on the course of bronchial asthma in children, which, of course, must be taken into account in practical work by pediatric pulmonologists.
Synergetic approach to evaluating the effectiveness of calcium glycerophosphate and magnesium chloride in the prevention of dental caries in adolescents with somatic diseases
Authors: Fedotova M. V. , Inshakov D. V. , Byvaltzeva S. Yu. , Shkavro T. K. , Galchenko V. M. , Kolesnikova L. R. , Evdokimova Yu. A.
Published: April 2022

Adolescents with somatic diseases are at risk due to more active progression of the carious process. The article analyzes the clinical use of calcium-glycerophosphate gel for remineralization of permanent teeth enamel as a preventive therapy in children aged 10–12 years on the background of somatic disease. The presented data indicate that the mineral density of enamel increases by 60% after 14 days, and decreases by 40% aftertwo more weeks. Thus, on average, the mineral density of enamel increased by 16% from the original values. The optimal scheme of using calcium-glycerophosphate gel, which does not require constant monitoring by a doctor, is proposed. This scheme involves performing the procedure at home, which eliminates the psychological anxiety and tension of the patient that occur during the dental appointment.
Modern strategy for the treatment of myocarditis in children
Authors: Leontyeva L. V.
Published: April 2022

The article presents data on the current strategy for the treatment of myocarditis in children. The authors discuss the tactics of treatment of patients with unstable hemodynamics requiring emergency medical care using inotropic support. The possibilities of surgical methods of treatment of decompensated heart failure in myocarditis (artificial left ventricle, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, heart transplantation) are clarified. Current approaches to the treatment of myocarditis with stable hemodynamics are described. Data on the effectiveness of angiotensin enzyme inhibitors and beta-blockers for the treatment of myocarditis in children are presented. Indications for immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory therapy are discussed
Current understanding of the treatment of trophic ulcers in patients with diabetes mellitus (literature review)
Authors: Alexey G. Terekhov , Elena G. Klyueva
Published: April 2022

Diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication of diabetes mellitus (DFU), which causes an increase in morbidity and mortality of the population, as well as a significant increase in health care costs. Objective of the study is to analyze the literature and present the main and additional methods of treating DFU used today. Materials and methods. The literature indexed in Web of Science, Medline, Cinahl, Embase, ScienceDirect, PsycINFO, Web of knowledge, Google Scholar search system for the period from 2018 to 2022 was analyzed. Exclusion criteria: theses, abstracts, dissertations, reports. Results. The main and complementary approaches to the treatment of DFU, as well as their advantages and disadvantages, have been summarized and presented in this paper. Conclusion. Primary wound care (debridement), unloading of the affected area, bandaging, antibiotic therapy, blood glucose control and maintenance, and revascularisation interventions are among the main methods. In addition, oxygen therapy, growth factors, negative pressure therapy, physiotherapy and other treatments are used. Considering the advantages and disadvantages of one treatment or another, an integrated and multidirectional approach to the management of patients with DFU is necessary.
Withdrawn: Biomarkers in Disease Diagnosis and the Role of LC-MS and NMR: A Review
Authors: Alam Ozair , Ashaq Irtiza , Ahmad Sheikh Aadil , Beri Nikita , Mittal Shruti , Javed Naim Mohd. , Bawa Sandhya
Published: April 2022

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A Comprehensive Review on Recent Advances and Considerations for the
Selection of Cell-based In-vitro Techniques for the Assessment of
Permeability of Drug Molecules
Authors: Garg Anuj , Garg Rajat
Published: April 2022

Objective:

The main focus of this article is to analyze numerous in-vitro methods and their
modifications currently used to assess the absorption or permeability of drug molecules from different
formulations.

Methods:

In the literature, no single method can be applied as a gold standard for measuring the exact
permeability of each drug molecule. Various in-vitro methods, including tissue and cell-based models,
are reported to assess the absorption of drugs. Caco-2 cell is a widely used model for absorption studies
but sometimes provides inaccurate results. Alternative methods like Madin-Darby canine kidney, IEC-
18, TC-7, 2/4/A1, and IPEC-J2 cell lines are also used. In this study, the merits and demerits of each
method have been described, along with the factors affecting the results of absorption studies. The
selection of an appropriate method is critical in accurately assessing the permeability and absorption of
drugs by mechanisms like vesicular and active transport. This review article aims to provide in-depth
knowledge regarding the different in-vitro methods, strategies, and selection of appropriate in-vitro
models to predict intestinal absorption.

Conclusion:

A flow chart diagram for decision-making in selecting an appropriate in-vitro permeability
model for formulation has been proposed for estimating permeability.
What is the Role of Lithium in Epilepsy?
Authors: Rao Chamallamudi Mallikarjuna , Bojja Sree Lalitha , Singh Neha , Kolathur Kiran Kumar
Published: April 2022

Lithium is a well-known FDA-approved treatment for bipolar and mood disorders. Lithium
has been an enigmatic drug with multifaceted actions involving various neurotransmitters and
intricate cell signalling cascades. Recent studies highlight the neuroprotective and neurotrophic actions
of lithium in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, intracerebral hemorrhage, and
epilepsy. Of note, lithium holds a significant interest in epilepsy, where the past reports expose its
non-specific proconvulsant action, followed lately by numerous studies for anti-convulsant action.
However, the exact mechanism of action of lithium for any of its effects is still largely unknown.
The present review integrates findings from several reports and provides detailed possible mechanisms
of how a single molecule exhibits marked pro-epileptogenic as well as anti-convulsant action.
This review also provides clarity regarding the safety of lithium therapy in epileptic patients.
Bone Grafts in Dental Implant Management: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sghaireen Mohammed G. , Shrivastava Deepti , Alnusayri Mohammed O. , Alahmari Abdulmajeed D. , Aldajani Ali M. , Srivastava Kumar C. , Alam Mohammad K.
Published: April 2022

Successful implant dentistry can be directly related to the quality and quantity of bone at the recipient site of the implant. Over the years, bone grafts have been used for the treatment of various osseous defects. Due to the widespread acceptance of dental implants, interest in bone reconstruction for the oral cavity has increased dramatically over the past decade. Many patients who request implant rehabilitation require ancillary procedures to increase the quantity and quality of the recipient’s bone. The internal architecture of the bone is generally described in terms of quality of the bone, which in turn reflects the strength (degree of compactness) of the bone. This is considered a crucial factor about the available bone at the edentulous site while planing about the design of the planned implant, surgical approach, healing time, and the initial progressive bone loading during the prosthetic reconstruction. Atrophy of the alveolar processes is expressed as a reduction of height and width. Databases were electronically searched up to April 2019 to identify human bone graft studies to provide contemporary and comprehensive information about the various bone grafts used in dental implant management.
The Role of Peroxidases in the Bioremediation of Organic Pollutants
Authors: Basumatary Dencil , Yadav Hardeo Singh , Yadav Meera
Published: April 2022

The emergence of organic pollutants such as phenolic acids, pesticides, dyes, petrochemicals,
pharmaceuticals, and industrial wastes threatens our environment, including biodiversity, ecosystems
of terrestrial and aquatic animals, and human health. It is well known that toxicants disrupt the
biochemical balance of organisms and cause physiological effects in individuals. Emerging Organic
Pollutants (OPs) have varied levels of lethality depending on their chemical nature and byproducts,
properties and composition of the compound fractions, mode of exposure, levels of exposure, and time
of exposure. Accordingly, risk mitigation measures should be taken with constant environmental
changes. The peroxidases are groups of heme-proteins, which at present are considered the most efficient
biocatalysts for the bioremediation of the environment. To overcome the numerous disadvantages
of conventional biological remediation methods, peroxidases require a more thorough interpretation
for broadly understanding their potential uses in organic transformations as an efficient biocatalyst.
Peroxidases are susceptible to the breakdown of polyaromatic hydrocarbons, dyes, pharmaceutical
compounds, agrochemicals, phenols, and other highly hazardous organic pollutants found in
industrial effluents. In this review, we focus on recent advances in the applications and the efficiency
of peroxidases as eco-friendly catalysts.
Machine Learning–Based Prediction Models for Different Clinical Risks in Different Hospitals: Evaluation of Live Performance
Authors: Sun Hong , Depraetere Kristof , Meesseman Laurent , Cabanillas Silva Patricia , Szymanowsky Ralph , Fliegenschmidt Janis , Hulde Nikolai , von Dossow Vera , Vanbiervliet Martijn , De Baerdemaeker Jos , Roccaro-Waldmeyer Diana M , Stieg Jörg , Domínguez Hidalgo Manuel , Dahlweid Fried-Michael
Published: April 2022

Background

Machine learning algorithms are currently used in a wide array of clinical domains to produce models that can predict clinical risk events. Most models are developed and evaluated with retrospective data, very few are evaluated in a clinical workflow, and even fewer report performances in different hospitals. In this study, we provide detailed evaluations of clinical risk prediction models in live clinical workflows for three different use cases in three different hospitals.

Objective

The main objective of this study was to evaluate clinical risk prediction models in live clinical workflows and compare their performance in these setting with their performance when using retrospective data. We also aimed at generalizing the results by applying our investigation to three different use cases in three different hospitals.

Methods

We trained clinical risk prediction models for three use cases (ie, delirium, sepsis, and acute kidney injury) in three different hospitals with retrospective data. We used machine learning and, specifically, deep learning to train models that were based on the Transformer model. The models were trained using a calibration tool that is common for all hospitals and use cases. The models had a common design but were calibrated using each hospital’s specific data. The models were deployed in these three hospitals and used in daily clinical practice. The predictions made by these models were logged and correlated with the diagnosis at discharge. We compared their performance with evaluations on retrospective data and conducted cross-hospital evaluations.

Results

The performance of the prediction models with data from live clinical workflows was similar to the performance with retrospective data. The average value of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) decreased slightly by 0.6 percentage points (from 94.8% to 94.2% at discharge). The cross-hospital evaluations exhibited severely reduced performance: the average AUROC decreased by 8 percentage points (from 94.2% to 86.3% at discharge), which indicates the importance of model calibration with data from the deployment hospital.

Conclusions

Calibrating the prediction model with data from different deployment hospitals led to good performance in live settings. The performance degradation in the cross-hospital evaluation identified limitations in developing a generic model for different hospitals. Designing a generic process for model development to generate specialized prediction models for each hospital guarantees model performance in different hospitals.
Automated Virtual Reality Cognitive Therapy (gameChange) in Inpatient Psychiatric Wards: Qualitative Study of Staff and Patient Views Using an Implementation Framework (Preprint)
Authors: Brown Poppy , Waite Felicity , Lambe Sinead , Jones Julia , Jenner Lucy , Diamond Rowan , Freeman Daniel
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Automated virtual reality (VR) therapy could allow a greater number of patients to receive evidence-based psychological therapy. The aim of the gameChange VR therapy is to help patients overcome anxious avoidance of everyday social situations. gameChange has been evaluated with outpatients, but it may also help inpatients prepare for discharge from psychiatric hospital.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to explore the views of patients and staff on the provision of VR therapy on psychiatric wards.

METHODS

Focus groups or individual interviews were conducted with patients (n=19) and National Health Service staff (n=22) in acute psychiatric wards. Questions were derived from the nonadoption, abandonment, and challenges to the scale-up, spread, and sustainability framework. Expectations of VR therapy were discussed, and participants were then given the opportunity to try out the gameChange VR therapy before they were asked questions that focused on opinions about the therapy and feasibility of adoption.

RESULTS

There was great enthusiasm for the use of gameChange VR therapy on psychiatric wards. It was considered that gameChange could help build confidence, reduce anxiety, and “bridge that gap” between the differences of being in hospital and being discharged to the community. However, it was reflected that the VR therapy may not suit everyone, especially if they are acutely unwell. VR on hospital wards for entertainment and relaxation was also viewed positively. Participants were particularly impressed by the immersive quality of gameChange and the virtual coach. It was considered that a range of staff groups could support VR therapy delivery. The staff thought that implementation would be facilitated by having a lead staff member, having ongoing training accessible, and involving the multidisciplinary team in decision-making for VR therapy use. The most significant barrier to implementation identified by patients and staff was a practical one: access to sufficient, private space to provide the therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients and staff were keen for VR to be used on psychiatric wards. In general, patients and staff viewed automated VR therapy as possible to implement within current care provision, with few significant barriers other than constraints of space. Patients and staff thought of many further uses of VR on psychiatric wards. The value of VR therapy on psychiatric wards now requires systematic evaluation.

CLINICALTRIAL

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/20300
The Effectiveness of Internet-guided Self-help Interventions to Promote Physical Activity Among Individuals with Depression: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Tang Yiling , Gierc Madelaine , Lam Raymond W. , Liu Sam , Faulkner Guy
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Depression is a prevalent and debilitating mental disorder and one of the leading causes of disability in Canada and around the world. Structured exercise interventions have been identified as effective in alleviating depression, and exercise is now recommended as a treatment for mild-to-moderate depression in Canada. It may not always be possible, however, to access supervised and structured exercise interventions for depression. Internet-guided self-help (IGSH) interventions, a type of eHealth intervention, may be an effective alternative in increasing physical activity among people with depression who cannot, or prefer not to, access supervised exercise treatment.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this systematic review (PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020221713) is to evaluate the effectiveness of IGSH interventions in increasing physical activity and alleviating depressive symptoms among people with depression (PWD).

METHODS

Two rounds of systematic literature searches for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies were conducted in nine electronic databases (e.g., Medline, PsycINFO) in December 2020 and November 2021 from their inception.

RESULTS

Five RCTs (502 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Four were web-based and one was app-based. Three studies indicated that IGSH interventions have medium to large effects on decreasing depressive symptoms but not on increasing physical activity compared to waitlist/usual care groups. Two studies showed increased self-reported physical activity but no significant change in depressive symptoms in the intervention groups compared to control groups. None of the included studies reported changes in physical activity as a primary outcome. Goal-setting, problem solving, feedback on behaviour, and self-monitoring of behaviour were the four most common behaviour change techniques used in the interventions. Dropout rates in intervention groups were relatively low (0% - 21.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that IGSH physical activity interventions are feasible and moderately effective in improving depressive symptoms among PWD. More well-designed and tailored interventions with different combinations of BCTs, particularly those targeting the emotion domain, are needed to assess the overall effectiveness and feasibility of using IGSH interventions for increasing physical activity among PWD.