bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A neuroprotective role of TRPM2 channel blocker and ROCK2 inhibitors to curtail epileptogenesis in an experimental model of traumatic brain injury.
Authors: Chandel Shammy , Singh Apinderpreet , Rajput Rohit , Bhatia Alka , Gupta S.K. , Kharbanda Parampreet , Kumar Amit , Prakash Ajay , Medhi Bikash
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: Post-traumatic epilepsy is the confirmed
progression of unprovoked seizures after head trauma in the general
population. This study was designed to control the devastating chronic
consequences of post-traumatic epileptogenesis. Experimental Approach:
Cerebral trauma was experimentally induced in Wistar rats to challenge
the seizure susceptibility for futuristic PTE. The efficiency of
Flufenamic acid, and fasudil hydrochloride, were assessed and compared
with valproic acid for abnormal neurobehavioural symptoms, biomolecular
levels, and apoptotic changes through histopathology. Key Results:
Initial brain insult was successfully exacerbated the normal
pathophysiology and neurobehavior changes in an experimental model. The
lowered seizure threshold confirmed the epileptogenesis progression when
a jab of Pentylenetetrazol(35mg/kg), gave the first successive seizure.
Disrupted BBB permeability, neuronal infarction, and brain edema were
found restored to normal after the treatment when compared to disease
controls. The altered levels of neurotransmitters, mitochondrial
complexes, cytoplasmic biomolecules/cytokines, different genes, and
channel proteins were also restored to normal after 14-days treatments.
No seizures have been observed with the test dose of Pentylenetetrazol.
We analyzed the histopathological changes of hippocampus/cortex regions
and found a significant decrease in the count of non-evident nucleoli,
nuclear pyknosis, vascular congestion, and perineural vacuolization in
treatment groups compared to injury controls. Conclusion and
Implications: All the drugs greatly minimized the epileptogenesis
cascade of futuristic PTE, confirms their neuroprotective capabilities.
Flufenamic acid was found more effective with many potential abilities
to minimize epileptogenesis compared to fasudil hydrochloride but its
combination with valproic acid has much neuroprotection and efficacy.
Surgical balloon catheter fenestration and thrombectomy for spontaneous coronary artery dissection
Authors: Williams Adam , Anand Jatin , Nanna Michael , Patel Manesh R. , Rymer Jennifer
Published: January 2024

A 51-year-old female presented with left anterior descending spontaneous
coronary artery dissection (SCAD). After initial treatment with
conservative therapy, she developed recurrent chest pain and complete
thrombosis of the LAD. Using a novel hybrid treatment, she was
revascularized with balloon catheter thrombectomy and fenestration,
followed by coronary artery bypass grafting.
Ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm: rare complication of aortic valve surgery
Authors: Sobhi Mleyhi , Yaasine Khadhar , imtinene ben mrad , Mohamed Ben Hammamia , Rym Miri , ihsen zairi , Malek Ben Mrad , raouf Denguir
Published: January 2024

Introduction : False aneurysm of the ascending aorta is a rare
complication of aortic valve surgery. It can be associated with
significant mortality. Caser report : We report the case of a false
aneurysm of the ascending aorta, diagnosed 1 year after aortic valve
replacement and a replacement of the ascending aorta by a supra coronary
tube for an endocarditis in a patient already operated within the
framework of tight aortic stenosis on bicuspidia with dilatation of the
ascending aorta. The patient was reoperated with placement of
extracorporeal circulation in femoro-femoral associated with selective
cannulation of carotids. Peroperatively, we found a dehiscence between
the proximal aorta and the Dacron tube that was closed by patches
patched by the right trans-auricular approach in circulatory arrest. The
bacteriological examination of the specimen was positive for negative
Staphylococcus coagulase. The follow-up was simple with a total of 40
days of antibiotic therapy. Conclusion : The ascending aortic
pseudoaneurysm is a rare or even exceptional complication of cardiac
surgery, the etiology, pathophysiology and natural course of which are
still poorly understood. This complication of cardiac surgery remains
fraught with high mortality, despite advances in cardiovascular surgery.
Each case of ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm is individual and should be
managed accordingly. Key-words : Pseudoaneurysm ; valvular surgery;
ascending aorta, infection
Drug Therapy Problems and Health Related Quality of life among Chronic Diseases Patients in a Rural Region of North Cyprus
Authors: Gökşin Servet , Abdi Abdikarim Mohamed , Saloumi Louai , Başgut Bilgen
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT: Background: The burden of NCD continues to increase rapidly
with lower resource areas affected the most. Aim is to evaluate status
of care of NCD patients in a rural area of North Cyprus. Materials and
Methods: A cross-sectional study involved patients with one or more NCD
visiting a community pharmacy. Patient’s demographics, beliefs about
medicine, lab values adherence and quality of life (QoL) were evaluated
using validated tools. A clinical pharmacist assessed goals of therapy
achievement, identified drug related problems (DRPs), and categorized
DRPs using PCNE tool version 9.2. Results: Responders were 97 out of 200
eligible and approached. Median age was 62 (IQR=15) years and females
formed 58.8%. Only 54% of hypertension patients reached target blood
pressure. More than 40% of T2DM patients fail to achieve target HbA1c
level. Most patients (71%) with Hypertension T2DM or CAD were not
compliant in their lifestyle and diet and had a DRP (86.6%). Other than
DRPs factors associated with lower QoL include female gender
unemployment, and belief “that Medicines do more harm than good”.
Conclusion: DRPs and non-adherence were prevalent while therapy targets
were rarely achieved. Community pharmacist form an opportunity to
improve outcomes in management of NCDs in rural areas. Keywords:
healthcare; evidence-based medicine; public health; patient-centered
care.
Silver nanoparticle interaction with ergosterol induces cell death and inhibits Trichosporon asahii cell proliferation
Authors: Meiyazhagan Gowri , Devaraj Muthu , Biswal Jayashree , Manogaran Prasath , Jayaraman Jeyakanthan , Kreedapathy Girija Easwaradas
Published: January 2024

In the present study, we have synthesized silver nanoparticles using
Azadirachta indica (A. indica) skin extract as a reducing agent and
characterized it. The antifungal activity of the silver nanoparticles
was assessed against three different clinical isolates of T. asahii. The
silver nanoparticles showed an efficient antifungal activity against T.
asahii and, it was again established by time kill assay and
Post-AntiFungal Effect (PAFE). Synergistic effect of silver
nanoparticles with fluconazole or nystatin revealed a Minimum Inhibitory
Concentration (MIC) decrease by 4-fold for both drugs studied and
inhibited biofilm formation. An in vivo antifungal efficacy of silver
nanoparticles using female Balb/C mice model revealed a mean 4log
reduction of CFU in kidney when treated with 90mg/kg. Morphology changes
of T. asahii cells, treated with silver nanoparticles, were observed
using SEM. Cell membrane damage was quantified from the treated cells
using flow cytometry by a Propidium Iodide (PI) uptake assay. The
mechanism of action of the new silver nanoparticles against T. asahii
was interpreted, and we learnt that they directly bind to ergosterol.
Further, silver nanoparticles were not cytotoxic to normal cells (NIH
3T3) and hemocompatible. We concluded that the new silver nanoparticles
exhibited promising antifungal activity against T. asahii.
Rapid evolution of thermal tolerance and phenotypic plasticity in variable environments
Authors: Schaum C. Elisa , Buckling Angus , Smirnoff Nicholas , Yvon-Durocher Gabriel
Published: January 2024

Global warming is associated with an increase in sea surface temperature
and its variability. The consequences of evolving in variable,
fluctuating environments are explored by a large body of theory: when
populations evolve in fluctuating environments the frequency of
fluctuations determines the shapes of tolerance curves (indicative of
habitats that organisms can inhabit) and trait reaction norms (the
phenotypes that organisms display across these environments). Despite
this well-established theoretical backbone, predicting how trait and
tolerance curves will evolve in organisms at the foundation of marine
ecosystems remains a challenge. Here, we used a globally distributed
phytoplankton, Thalassiosira pseudonana, and show that fluctuations in
temperature on scales of 3-4 generations rapidly selected for
populations with enhanced trait plasticity and elevated thermal
tolerance. Fluctuations spanning 30-40 generations selected for the
formation of two stable, genetically and physiologically distinct
populations, one also evolving high trait plasticity and enhanced
thermal tolerance, and the other, akin to samples evolved under constant
warming, with lower trait plasticity and a smaller increase in thermal
tolerance.
Thiol -- disulphide homeostasis as a novel oxidative stress marker in pulmonary thromboembolism
Authors: Giden Zeliha Demir , Hocanlı Iclal , Demir Elif , Giden Ramazan
Published: January 2024

Aim of Study: Our aim is to compare dynamic thiol/disulphide homeostasis
between patients with acute pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) and healthy
controls. Methods: Our study included 45 patients who were diagnosed
with acute PTE and 50 healthy controls. Serum thiol/disulphide was
measured. Results: We found that the native thiol, total thiol, native
thiol/total thiol levels were significantly lower in the patient group
than the control group, while the disulphide, disulphide/natural thiol,
disulphide/total thiol levels were significantly higher. Conclusion: We
have seen that in patients diagnosed with acute PTE, the
oxidant-antioxidant balance shifts towards the oxidative direction. The
disulfide/natural thiol ratio can be considered as an oxidative stress
parameter in acute PTE. We think that the deterioration in thiol
disulfide balance, together with clinical, laboratory and radiological
findings, may have diagnostic value in acute PTE patients.
Teaching critical appraisal for evidence-based practice: a simple generic tool for the non-expert.
Authors: Hopayian Kevork
Published: January 2024

Rationale, aims and objectives Progress in evidence-based practice has
been hampered by the difficulty faced by health practitioners in
learning and practising critical appraisal of internal validity. Several
tools have been developed to assist them non-expert but there is a need
for a simple, generic tool that can be taught and remembered easily.
This article describes the development of such a tool, SAFOBAD, how it
has been used, and reviews it characteristics. Method Four criteria for
a generic tool were set. 1. It should integrate with teaching. 2. It
should relate only to internal validity. 3. It should be applicable to
all quantitative studies. 4. It should be simple enough for the
non-expert practitioner to remember and to use. The tool, SAFOBAD, was
developed as a result of teaching on several post-graduate,
multidisciplinary courses. SAFOBAD was compared against alternative
tools. Results SAFOBAD is a schema, that is, a framework or model that
helps the learner organise and interpret information. Compared to other
tools, only one met all four criteria but SAFOBAD is more comprehensive
and appears more universally acceptable. Conclusions SAFOBAD is a useful
tool for teaching critical appraisal and for use by non-experts. Such a
tool has been developed to enable non-expert practitioners to learn and
apply the basics of appraisal. It breaks research into three phases in
relation to data collection, before: during and after. The facets of
research, Selection, Allocation, Follow Up, Outcomes, Blinding, Analysis
and Discussion, are grouped under the phases. Biases can be mapped to
each facet. The tool forms a mnemonic for each facet of research,
Scrutinise All Facets of the study Otherwise Bias Avoids Detection
(SAFOBAD). It is applicable to all quantitative research studies,
emerges from teaching and is easy to remember and use.
All available clinical data on anakinra in COVID-19: an updated comprehensive review
Authors: Shahrabi Marzieh , Khani Elnaz , Pourkarim Fariba , Afsharirad Hoda , Solduzian Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Background: Based on the investigations, cytokine-release syndrome (CRS)
play a key role in the development of acute respiratory distress
syndrome (ARDS) following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Anakinra can be
effective in the management of CRS by inhibiting IL-1 from binding to
the interleukin-1 receptors. We aimed to review the current clinical
evidence regarding the therapeutic effects of anakinra in the management
of ARDS in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Methods: PubMed and google scholar databases were searched and all of
the case reports, case series and RCTs were reviewed. Also, we searched
www.clinicaltrial.gov database for ongoing clinical trials of anakinra.
Results: Overall, 31 articles were found, and included 9 case report, 6
case-series and 11 RCTs. One of the reports of RCTs was not peer
reviewed. Also, ten ongoing studies were found in the clinicaltrial.gov
database searching. Conclusion: Four items have been shown to be
important to achieve the optimal therapeutic effect of anakinra in
patients withCOVID-19. These items include duration of treatment ≥ 10
days, doses of more than 100 mg, intravenous administration and early
initiation of therapy. Also, the use of corticosteroids in combination
with anakinra appears to improve clinical outcome compared to
monotherapy with anakinra.
Comparative study of the adverse event profile of hydroxychloroquine before and during the Sars-CoV2 pandemic
Authors: LORY Pauline , LOMBARDI Jeffrey , Lacroix Clemence , Sanchez-Pena Paola , ROMANI Serena , Grandvuillemin Aurélie
Published: January 2024

Aims At the beginning of the Sars-CoV2 pandemic, there were no
clinically-tested medications for the effective treatment of coronavirus
disease. In this context, on 5 March 2020, the French Public Health
Council issued several recommendations for the therapeutic management of
this new disease, including the use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). An
unexpected cardiovascular safety signal was quickly identified as being
more frequent than expected thanks to the reports of adverse drug
reactions (ADRs) submitted to French regional pharmacovigilance centres
(RPVC). The objective of this study was to compare all ADRs reported
with HCQ used in its usual indication, collected before the pandemic
period (1985 to 31 December, 2019) with those reported with the COVID-19
indication (1 January to 21 July, 2020). Methods For this purpose,
reports were extracted from the French pharmacovigilance database and
analysed for these two periods. Results Our study showed a different
safety profile in COVID-19 patients with more cardiac disorders (57% of
ADRs versus 5% before the pandemic period), especially QT interval
prolongation, resulting from an interaction with azithromycin in more
than 20% of cases. Hepatobiliary disorders were also significantly more
frequent. Conclusions These observations could be associated with the
effect of the virus itself on the various organs, the profile of the
patients treated, and concomitant drug treatments.
Report of clinical presentations and two novel mutations in patients with Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome/X-linked thrombocytopenia
Authors: Udomkittivorakul Natsumon , Pongphitcha Pongpak , Wattanasirichaigoon Duangrurdee , Manuyakorn Wiparat , Khongkraparn Arthaporn , Tunlayadechanont Padcha , Sirachainan Nongnuch
Published: January 2024

Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS)/X-linked thrombocytopenia (XLT) is a rare
X-linked disease characterized by thrombocytopenia, eczema, and
recurrent infection. In addition, WAS/XLT increases incidence of
autoimmune diseases and malignancies. We reported 7 male patients, 2
with WAS and 5 with XLT, from 6 different families. Two novel mutations,
p.Gly387GlufsTer58 and p.Ala134Asp, were identified in patients with
WAS. Both patients had severe clinical phenotypes compatible with
classic WAS and developed lethal outcomes with intracranial hemorrhage.
Other than that, one patient with XLT developed pineoblastoma.
ERα-independent NRF2-mediated immunoregulatory activity of tamoxifen
Authors: Pepe Giovanna , Sfogliarini Chiara , Rizzello Loris , Battaglia Giuseppe , Pinna Christian , Rovati Gianenrico , Ciana Paolo , Brunilati Electra , Maggi Adriana , Locati Massimo , Vegeto Elisabetta
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: Sex differences in immune-mediated diseases are
linked to the activity of estrogens on innate immunity cells, including
macrophages. Tamoxifen (TAM) is a selective estrogen receptor modulator
(SERM) used in estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα)-dependent breast cancers
and off-target indications such as infections, although the immune
activity of TAM and its active metabolite, 4-OH tamoxifen (4HT), is
poorly characterized. Here, we aimed at investigating the endocrine and
immune activity of these SERMs in macrophages. Experimental Approach:
Using primary cultures of female mouse macrophages, we analyzed the
expression of immune mediators and activation of effectors functions in
competition experiments with SERMS and 17β-estradiol (E2) or the
bacterial endotoxin LPS. Key results: We observed that 4HT and TAM
induce estrogen antagonist effects when used at nanomolar
concentrations, while pharmacological concentrations that are reached by
TAM in clinical settings regulate the expression of VEGFα and other
immune activation genes by ERα- and G protein-coupled receptor 1
(GPER1)-independent mechanisms that involve NRF2 through
PI3K/Akt-dependent mechanisms. Importantly, we observed that SERMs
potentiate cell phagocytosis and modify the effects of LPS on the
expression of inflammatory cytokines, such as TNFα, IL-6 and IL1-β, with
an overall increase in cell inflammatory phenotype, further sustained by
potentiation of IL1-β secretion through caspase-1 activation. Conclusion
and Implications: Altogether, our data unravel a novel molecular
mechanism and immune functions for TAM and 4HT, sustaining their
repurposing in infective and other estrogen receptors-unrelated
pathologies.
The Evaluation of Flow Mediated Dilatation and Blood Parameters in Primary Raynaud Phenomenon
Authors: UZUN Suheyla , KAYA Ilker
Published: January 2024

Rationale, aims, and objectives: Raynaud phenomenon (RP) is a
multifactorial disorder. If any underlying disease cannot be detected
responsible for RP then it considered as primary RP (pRP). We aimed to
investigate the differences between laboratory markers and impaired
endothelial function in pRP. Method: Forty-two pRP patients included as
study and control groups were created from 30 healthy individuals. The
endothelial function was evaluated with flow-mediated dilatation (FMD)
of the brachial artery. The blood samples were obtained both groups and
white blood cell [WBC], hemoglobin, platelet, mean platelet volume
[MPV], creatinine, alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate
aminotransferase[AST], D-dimer, fibrinogen, albumin, fibrinogen to
albumin ratio [FAR], Neutrophil to Lymphocyte ratio [NLR],
D-dimer to albumin ratio [DDAR] and monocyte chemo-attractant
protein-1 [MCP-1]. Obtained blood parameters and FMD values were
compared between groups. Findings: The groups were found as similar in
regards to age, gender, smoking history (p<0.05). There was no
difference between the two groups in regards to hemoglobin, platelet,
MPV, creatinine, ALT, D-dimer, albumin, FAR, NLR, DDAR levels
(p<0.05). AST levels were slightly higher in pRP group
(p=0.027). Markedly increased WBC, fibrinogen, MPV and MCP-1 values were
detected in pRP group (p=0.000). Additionally, higher abnormal FMD
responses were detected in pRP group (p=0.000). There was a direct
correlation between abnormal FMD response and serum MCP-1 values in
patients with pRP (R: 0.308, R2: 0.095, p: 0.044). Conclusion: It seems
to be that MCP-1 levels are higher in patients with pRP and increased
values of MCP-1 levels seem to be related to impaired endothelial
functions
Soil conditioning diversity drives strength of diversity-productivity relationship
Authors: Ren Haiyan , Wang Lifeng , Wubs E. R. Jasper , Chang Jiechao , Cai Anran , Guo Hui
Published: January 2024

Plant-soil feedback (PSF) has been shown to be a key factor driving
plant performance and species diversity. However, it is unclear how soil
conditioned by diverse species mixtures modulates the plant
productivity-species diversity relationship through PSF. Here, we tested
the effects of a gradient of soil conditioning diversity and concurrent
plant species diversity on plant biomass production in a full factorial
experiment. Soils conditioned by multiple species produced the
well-known positive diversity-productivity relationship. In contrast,
when soils were conditioned by a single species, there was no
diversity-productivity relationship. However, while overall productivity
increased with soil conditioning diversity, that effect rapidly
plateaued at higher levels of conditioning diversity. Our results
highlight that a soil-borne legacy of species diversity is required for
biodiversity-productivity relations to arise, suggesting that PSFs
overrule concurrent complementarity effects. Our study highlights the
importance of conditioning soil diversity for optimal biomass
productivity, particularly at lower levels of conditioning diversity.
Comparison of Total Heart Volume and Laboratory Results in COVID-19 Infection
Authors: etli mustafa , avnioglu seda , kozacı nalan , turkay aslı , yilmaz halil
Published: January 2024

Introduction: In this study, we aimed to investigate cardiac involvement
in patients diagnosed with the new Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Materials and Methods: Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia in the
emergency department were included in this retrospective study. Patients
diagnosed with COVID-19 pneumonia were included in Group 1 and healthy
individuals (as control group) were included in Group 2.CCT images were
transferred to the Intrasense Myrian® software. Total cardiac volume
(TCV) was measured in three-dimensional images. Obtained parameters were
compared between groups Results: Total cardiac volume was 525.35±29.96
cm3 (min:244cm3 - max:1545cm3) in Group 1 and 369.64±10.41cm3
(min:229cm3 - max:522cm3) in Group 2 (P=0.000). In Group 1 patients,
levels of D-dimer, C-reactive protein (CRP) and high sensitivity
troponin I (hs-TnI) were 391.00 (6.00-6450) µg/L, 3.50 (0.10-30.40)
mg/dL and 4.41 (1.00-3627.00) ng/mL, respectively, whereas those in
Group 2 were 112.50 (3.00-767.00) µg/L, 0.20 (0.10-19.30) mg/dL and 2.50
(2.30-36.02) ng/mL, respectively (P<0.05). Conclusion: Total
cardiac volume increases in patients that develop pneumonia due to
COVID-19 infection. D-dimer, CRP and hs-TnI levels also increase with
TCV. Keywords: COVID-19, chest computed tomography, total cardiac
volume, C-reactive protein, D-dimer, high sensitive troponin I
THE USE OF IONTOPHORESIS WITH HYALURONIC ACID ASSOCIATED WITH GOLD NANOPARTICLES ACCELERATES WOUND HEALING IN RATS
Authors: Mendes Carolini , Zaccaron Rubya , Vasconcelos Livia Herundina De , Venturini Ligia , Casagrande Laura , Lima Anadhelly Cristina de , Oliveira Lara de , Andrade Thiago Antônio de , Thirupathi Anand , Feuser Paulo , Machado-de-Ávila Ricardo Andrez , Silveira Paulo Cesar
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of iontophoresis with HA
linked to GNPs in an epithelial lesion model. Fifty Wistar rats were
randomly assigned to the following groups: epithelial lesion (EL);
(EL+MIC); (EL+MIC+HA); (EL+MIC+GNPs); (EL+MIC+HA-GNPs). The animals
induced to an epithelial lesion and treatment started 24 hours after
injury with microcurrents (300µA) containing gel with HA (0.9%) and/or
GNPs (30mg/Kg) in the electrodes (1mL) for seven days. The animals were
euthanized twelve hours after the last application. Results demonstrated
a reduction in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFNϒ, IL-1β,
TNFα, IL6) in the group in which the therapies were combined; an
increase in the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10) and
growth factors (FGF, TGFβ) in EL+MIC+HA and EL+MIC+HA-GNPs groups. As
for DCF and nitrite levels, decreased in the combined therapy group when
compared to the control group, as well as the oxidative damage (carbonyl
and sulfhydryl). In antioxidant defense, there was an increase in GSH
and a decrease in SOD in the combination therapy group. Histological
analysis showed a reduction in the inflammatory infiltrate in groups
treated with MIC and in the combination therapy group. An increase in
contraction of the wound area was obtained in all treated groups when
compared to the control group, proving that the proposed therapies are
effective in the process of epithelial healing. The results of this
study demonstrated that the associated therapies favor the tissue repair
process more significantly compared to the isolated therapies.
Stability and large-time behavior of the 2D Boussinesq system with mixed partial dissipations near hydrostatic equilibrium
Authors: Chen Dongxiang , Li Xiaoli
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this note is to address the stability and large-time
behavior for the 2D Boussinesq system with vertical dissipation on
$u_1$ and horizontal dissipation on $u_2$ near a hydrostatic
equilibrium. Meanwhile the decay estimates of that system are also
presented. Finally, we also obtain the decay rates of the solution to
the corresponding linearized equation of the Boussinesq system.
Phylogeographic patterns driven by river isolations in an island-endemic montane plant
Authors: Ling Shaojun , Caujapé-Castells Juli , Tang Liang , Ren Mingxun
Published: January 2024

Hainan Island in south China is a key part of the globally important
Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, while the origin and maintenance of its
species richness remains largely unexplored. In this study, we combined
nuclear ITS and cpDNA trnL-trnF and ycf1b sequences to evaluate the
genetic structure and phylogeographic patterns of the Hainan-endemic
Primulina heterotricha (Gesneriaceae). The results showed significant
phylogeographic patterns with low within-population genetic diversity
and significant genetic differentiation among populations (Fst = 0.708 ±
0.319 and 0.826 ± 0.209 for nrDNA and cpDNA). Three clades were
identified with little gene flow (Nm << 1 for nrDNA
and cpDNA), which is supported by our STRUCTURE v.2.3.4 analyses. Our
analyses detected two vicariance events at c. 0.83 and c. 0.48 Myr, and
suggest that these three genetically-separated groups were isolated by
two big rivers (Changhua River and Wanglou River), that likely acted as
barriers to gene flow. The magnitude of isolation was positively
correlated to the size of the rivers, with the greater barrier effect
associated with the larger Changhua River. Our results highlight for the
first time the critical role of riverine isolation in the patterns of
intraspecific evolution of plant populations on Hainan Island.
The relationship between vector species richness and the risk of vector-borne infectious diseases
Authors: Takimoto Gaku , Shirakawa Harumasa , Sato Takuya
Published: January 2024

Biodiversity can potentially influence the risk of vector-borne
diseases, which impact human welfare and wildlife management. Here we
theoretically study the relationship between vector species richness and
the risk of vector-borne diseases by a mathematical model for a
multiple-vector-single-host vector-borne disease. The model incorporates
transmission interference due to feeding interference among vector
species and regulation of susceptible vector densities due to
intraspecific recruitment competition. The model reveals three patterns
of the vector richness-disease risk relationship: monotonic
amplification, hump-shaped, and monotonic dilution. Monotonic
amplification occurs across a wide parameter region. Hump-shaped or
monotonic dilution is found when transmission interference is strong and
recruitment competition is weak. Unexpectedly, susceptible vector
regulation does not only promote dilution but can strengthen
amplification if coupled with strong transmission interference. Our
results suggest that vector richness can strongly affect the risk of
vector-borne diseases and should be considered in disease risk
management.
Prognostic value of systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) as a novel marker in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Zheng Ru Jie , Wang Yue , Tang Jun-Nan , Duan Jie-Ying , Yuan Ming-Yue , Jiang Yao-Hui , Zhang Jin-Ying
Published: January 2024

Background Recently, inflammation plays an essential role in the
prognosis of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Systemic
immune-inflammation index (SII), reflecting the inflammation status,
which is measured by the formula: neutrophil count × platelet
count/lymphocyte count, is a powerful prognostic marker in several types
of cancer and cardiovascular disease. However, no information regarding
the prognostic value of SII in patients with AF is available. Methods
and results We retrospectively enrolled 1768 AF patients in our study.
Demographic characteristics, laboratory data and echocardiography were
measured and collected on admission. The primary endpoints were death
from all causes and death from cardiovascular diseases. The secondary
endpoints were major bleeding and stroke. During a mean follow-up of
22.35 months, 155 patients occurred death from all causes. For further
analysis, patients were categorized into two groups according to the
optimal cutoff value of SII level determined by using receiver operating
characteristics curve analysis. The incidence of death from all causes
and death from cardiovascular diseases in high SII group is
significantly higher compared with that in low SII group. However, no
significant differences were detected between two groups for the
secondary endpoints (p>0.05). On multivariable Cox analysis
with adjustment of potential confounders, the risk of death from all
causes and death from cardiovascular diseases increased by 77.6% and
51.2%, respectively, in high SII group. Conclusion Systemic
immune-inflammation index was significantly associated poor outcomes and
was an independent predictor for mortality in atrial fibrillation
patients.
Identification and full-genome characterization of a novel circovirus in giant pandas ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca )
Authors: zhang wen , Dai Ziyuan , Wang Hao , Feng Zhanghao , Yang Shixing , Shen Quan , Wang Xiaochun , Zhou Tianji
Published: January 2024

The members of the family Circoviridae are considered to be the
smallest autonomously replicating viruses, including two genera,
Circovirus and Cyclovirus. Circoviruses have been found in
a variety of vertebrates, but whether they infect endangered protected
animals has not been studied in much detail. Here, viral metagenomics
and reserve PCR methods were used to detected and verified viral nucleic
acid in the blood samples from giant pandas. According to these methods,
the complete genome sequence of a novel circovirus, the Giant
panda associated circovirus (GPCV) from the blood sample of three giant
panda was identified. The GPCV genome is 2,090 bp in size and reveals
two putative ambisense open-reading frames, encoding the major
structural capsid protein and the replication associated protein,
respectively, the latter having two predicted introns. Pairwise sequence
comparison and phylogenetic analyses indicated GPCV was a putative new
species within genus Circovirus based on the species demarcation
criteria of the International Committee on the Taxonomy of Viruses. It
is the first time that circovirus has been identified from blood samples
of giant pandas. These efforts will contribute to future analyses to
illuminate the evolutionary relationships between classified and newly
identified members of the family Circoviridae.
Can the stone scoring systems be used to predict infective complications of retrograde intrarenal surgery?
Authors: Senel Samet , Özden Cüneyt , Aslan Yılmaz , Kizilkan Yalcin , Gokkaya Cevdet Serkan , Aktas Binhan Kagan
Published: January 2024

Aim: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the association between
infective complications after retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and
RIRS scoring systems includes the Resorlu-Unsal Stone Score (RUSS),
Modified Seoul National University renal stone complexity score
(modified S-ReCS) and R.I.R.S score. Methods: Patients with renal
calculi detected on imaging, who underwent RIRS in the urology clinic of
a tertiary hospital between January 2013 and May 2020 were included in
the study. A total of 581 patients who underwent RIRS for the kidney
stones detected with imaging methods were included in the study. The
RUSS and modified S-ReCS and R.I.R.S. scores of the patients were
determined. Results: Infective complications were detected in 47 (8.1%)
patients who underwent RIRS. There were fever in 27 (4.6%), urinary
infection in 15 (2.5%), sepsis in 2 (0.3%) and septic shock in 3
(0.5%) patients. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age (OR:
1.8; 95% CI: 1-3.4; p:0.049), surgical duration of >60
minutes (OR: 1.9; 95% Cl: 1.1–3.5; p:0.027) RIRS score (OR: 8.9; 95%
CI: 1.9-42.4; p:0.006) have been shown to be independent risk factors
for the development of infective complications. A ROC curve analysis
showed that the R.I.R.S scoring system can be used as a marker to
predict infective complications. (Area under the curve (AUC):0.619, CI:
0.55–0.69; p:0.007) The cut-off point for the R.I.R.S scoring system
was found to be 5.5 points using Youden’s test. Conclusion: In our
study, we showed that the R.I.R.S scoring system can be used to predict
infective complications in RIRS.
Development and validation of the Adherence to Asthma Medication Questionnaire (AAMQ)
Authors: Nassar Razan I. , Saini Bandana , Obeidat Nathir M. , Basheti Iman A.
Published: January 2024

Background: Adherence to medication is the cornerstone to
achieve the best treatment outcome. Pharmacists are healthcare
professionals found in pivotal positions to assess asthmatic patient’s
adherence to medication. A brief, reliable, and valid measure of patient
adherence is useful to enable the pharmacists to deliver that vital
service. This study aims to develop a reliable and valid adherence
assessment tool for asthmatic patients. Methods: The Adherence
to Asthma Medication Questionnaire (AAMQ-13) was developed based on an
extensive literature review, followed by applying the Delphi technique,
and then it was pilot-tested by 55 patients. The final AAMQ-13 was
completed by 213 patients. Psychometric evaluation was assessed
including reliability, criterion validity, and construct validity.
Results: The AAMQ-13 is a feasible 13 item questionnaire, as it
can be completed within an average of two minutes. It has high internal
validity (Cronbach’s alpha= 0.87). Criterion-concurrent validity was
established by comparing the AAMQ-13 to the Test of the Adherence to
Inhaler (TAI) and the pharmacy refill records. Criterion-convergent
validity was established by comparing the AAMQ-13 to the Asthma Control
Test (ACT) questionnaire and the Positive Health Behaviors Scale (PHBS).
Construct validity was established through AAMQ-13 factor analysis which
revealed two factors explaining 51.76% of the variance.
Conclusion: The AAMQ-13 is a reliable and valid questionnaire
with several desirable characteristics as it has a high internal
validity, good criterion validity, and strong construct validity. The
AAMQ-13 is a suitable questionnaire that can identify non-adherent
patients and reveal the reasons behind their non-adherence (intentional
or unintentional non-adherence).
Fluttering cord-like thrombus in the aortic arch
Authors: Kuroda Yuki , Marui Akira , Arai Yoshio , Nagasawa Atsushi , Tsumaru Shinichi , Arakaki Ryoko , Iida Jun , Wada Yuki , Tamai Yumeka , Fukushima Takashi , Soga Yoshiharu
Published: January 2024

Optimal treatment for aortic thrombus remains to be determined, but
surgical treatment is indicated when there is a risk for
thromboembolism. We report a rare case of a fluttering cord-like
thrombus extending from the ascending aorta to the left carotid artery
that was removed under hypothermic circulatory arrest and direct
cannulation of the left carotid artery to avoid carotid thromboembolism.
The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged 9
days after surgery.
Left Ventricular Systolic Motion Pattern Differs Among Patients with Left Bundle Branch Block Patterns
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhang Yanjuan , Xu Di , Chen Chun , miao changqing , Tang Huan , Ge Beibei , Shen Yan , Yao Jing
Published: January 2024

Background: The electrical activation patterns in pacemaker rhythm, type
B Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, and premature ventricular complexes
originating from the right ventricular outflow tract are similar to
those of the complete left bundle branch block and can be considered as
LBBB patterns. Methods: Two-dimensional speckle tracking was used to
evaluate peak value and time to peak value of the LV twist, LV apex
rotation, and LV base rotation in patients with PM, B-WPW, RVOT-PVC,
CLBBB, and in age-matched control subjects. The apical-basal rotation
delay was calculated as the index of LV dyssynchrony. Results: The LV
motion patterns were altered in all patients compared to the control
groups. Patients with PM and CLBBB had a similar LV motion pattern with
a reduced peak value of LV apex rotation and LV twist. Patients with
B-WPW demonstrated the opposite trend in the reduction of LV rotation
peak value, which was more dominant in the basal layer. The most
impairment in the LV twist/rotation peak value was identified in
patients with RVOT-PVC. Compared to the control group, the apical-basal
rotation delay was prolonged in patients with CLBBB, followed by those
with B-WPW, RVAP, and RVOT-PVC. Conclusions: The LV motion patterns were
different among patients with different patterns of LBBB. CLBBB and PM
demonstrated a reduction in LV twist/rotation that was pronounced in the
apical layer, B-WPW showed a reduction in the basal layer, and RVOT-PVC
in both layers. CLBBB had the most pronounced LV apical-basal rotation
dyssynchrony.
Serelaxin Inhibits Inflammatory Response Induced by LPS in Cardiac Fibroblasts via Activating PPAR-γ and Suppressing NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wu xueping
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND Various models of cardiovascular disease that have been used
to prove the anti-fibrotic effects of serelaxin. However, whether
anti-fibrotic effects of serelaxin are achieved by inhibiting
inflammatory response have not been clarified. This research is intended
to explore the role of serelaxin in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced
inflammation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and elucidated the potential
mechanisms. APPROACH Cardiac ﬁbroblasts (CFs) were isolated from the
hearts of 3 days neonatal rats. Effects of serelaxin on inhibiting
inﬂammatory response after induction with LPS were examined. Cell
proliferation was determined by cell-counting kit-8. The inflammatory
cytokines secretion levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, and IL-10 were
measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) respectively. The
mRNA levels of α-SMA, collagen I/III, MMP-2, MMP-9, IL-1β, IL-6,TNF-α,
IL-10, IκBα, p-IκBα, p65 subunit of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and
peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) were assessed by
real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The protein levels of α-SMA,
collagen I/III, MMP-2, MMP-9, IκBα, p-IκBα, p65, p-p65 and PPAR-γ were
examined by Western blotting. RESULTS Serelaxin inhibited LPS-induced
IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, α-SMA, collagen I/III, and elevated IL-10, MMP-2
and MMP-9 expression. And, LPS-induced activation of NF-κB pathways was
suppressed by serelaxin treatment. Substantially, Further research
demonstrated that serelaxin elevated the expression of PPAR-γ and PPAR-γ
inhibitor GW9662 could reverse the inhibition of serelaxin on IL-1β,
IL-6,TNF-α production. CONCLUSIONS These results suggested that
serelaxin alleviates cardiac fibrosis by inhibiting inflammatory
products of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, α-SMA, collagen I/III in LPS-induced
CFs by stimulating PPAR-γ which subsequently abolished the expression of
NF-κB signalling pathways.
Concerns and Experiences of the Nurses Caring for the Patients Diagnosed with Covid-19 During the First Wave of Covid-19
Authors: KORKMAZ Mehmet , YILDIRIM Ozge OZ , Eren Dılek Celik , Avci Ilknur Aydın
Published: January 2024

Background: Health professionals who have direct contact with patients,
provide primary care, and have the longest contact time are nurses. The
pandemic caused by Covid-19, a virus with high mortality, high spreading
rate, and no precise treatment, causes anxiety and fear in nurses. This
study aimed to evaluate the anxiety and experience of the nurses who
care for patients diagnosed with Covid-19. Material and Methods: This
study was carried out based on cross-sectional research principles. The
study was conducted between April 1 and May 30, 2020, with 327 nurses
providing care to the hospitalized patients diagnosed with Covid-19.
Results: The nurses stated that 70.6% of them had increased anxiety,
and 51.1% of the nurses indicated that they were concerned about
transmitting this disease to themselves while giving care to the patient
diagnosed with Covid-19. Approximately half of the nurses (49.5%)
stated that they needed psychological support. Conclusion: Nursing is a
profession with long working hours, very stressful working environment,
work in high-risk environments due to potential risk factors (bacteria,
virus and radiation) and the shift system in hospitals. Having long
working hours is a risky situation for mental health. Mental health
problems are more common in nurse and thus, they need psychological
support. Similarly, our study revealed that the nurses who work long
hours, have night shift and experience changes in sleep patterns need
psychological support. Nurses experience problems such as impaired sleep
patterns, increased anxiety levels, and increased fear and anxiety about
transmitting the virus to themselves, their families, loved ones,
friends, and colleagues. To ensure that nurses cope with these problems
and work efficiently during the Covid-19 pandemic process.
A comparative study of machine learning techniques for predicting sepsis for MIMIC-III patients
Authors: Zhao Xuze , Qu Bo
Published: January 2024

Background: Sepsis is one of the dominating causes of mortality and
morbidity in-hospital especially in intensive care units (ICU) patients.
The purpose of this study was to develop an eXtreme Gradient Boosting
(XGBoost) based model and explore whether it performs better in
predicting sepsis from the time of admission in intensive care units
(ICU) than other machine learning (ML) methods. Methods: The source data
used for model establishment in this study were from a retrospective
medical information mart for intensive care (MIMIC) III dataset. Model
performance of the XGBoost model was compared to logistic regression
(LR), recursive neural network (RNN), and support vector machine (SVM).
Then, the performances of the models were evaluated and compared by the
area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic
(ROC) curves. Results: A total of 6430 MIMIC-III cases are included in
this article, in which, 3021 cases have encountered sepsis while 3409
cases have not, respectively. As for the AUC (0.808 (95% CI):
0.767-0.848,DT), 0.802 (95%CI: 0.762-0.842，RNN), 0.790 (95%CI:
0.751-0.830,SVM), 0.775 (95%CI: 0.736-0.813,LR) , results of the
models, XGBoost performs best in predicting sepsis. Conclusions: Amongst
other ML methods, the XGBoost model demonstrated the best ability in
detecting the sepsis.
Effects of Rivaroxaban and Apixaban on Intimal Hyperplasia in Rabbits
Authors: Gencpinar Tugra , Dursun Huseyin , Bilen Cagatay , Kemahli Baris , Akokay Pinar , Bayrak Serdar , Erdal Cenk
Published: January 2024

Background: Optimum treatment options for arterial thrombosis are
antiplatelet and anticoagulant treatments. We evaluated the
effectiveness of Apixaban and Rivaroxaban treatment for preventing
intimal hyperplasia in rabbits. Methods: The rabbits (n = 15) were
randomly divided into three groups. Reanastomoses applied on the carotid
artery site. All groups received 100 U/kg heparin sodium during
operation period. Group A (n = 5) as a control group had no medication.
Group B (n = 5) was given Rivaroxaban 3 mg/kg/day. In-group C (n = 5)
Apixaban was administered perorally 10 mg/kg. At the end of the
treatment on the 28th day, carotid artery specimens excised and
evaluated histologically. Results: Increased intima thickness was
observed in the control group than the drug groups (p<0.009).
It was found that there was no difference between groups in terms of
lumen diameter, lumen area, tunica media area and tunica media thickness
(p>0.005). There was expressive difference between groups
in terms of α-SMA distribution or Tunel staining (p<0.05,
p<0.019). The p value was less than 0.05. Conclusion: Apixaban
and Rivaroxaban had better efficacy on the results against intimal
damage after carotid artery surgery.
Clinical Features of Winter Sports Injuries: A Prospective Single Center Study
Authors: Gür Ali , Celik Bahar Keskin , Tekin Erdal , Ozdal Emine , Ozlu Ibrahim , Bi̇lgi̇li̇ Mehmet Ali
Published: January 2024

Abstract: Aim/Objective: To present the epidemiological and clinical
effects of skiing training and use of protective equipment on skiing,
sledding and snowboarding injuries. Material and method: This study was
conducted prospectively in the emergency department of a tertiary
hospital. The patients were evaluated in two groups according to both
their skiing experience and use of protective equipment. The
characteristics of the patients, such as age, gender, injury area, and
injury type were statistically evaluated according to the groups.
Results: A total of 191 patients, 68 (35.6%) female and 123 (64.4%)
male, were evaluated. There was a significant difference between the
skiing type of the patients with and without skiing experience
(p=0.000). When the patients were evaluated according to the presence of
protective equipment, 25 (59.5%) patients who had no experience did not
wear protective equipment, and this rate was statistically significant
compared to the experienced group (p=0.000). Concerning the diagnoses of
the patients according to injury areas, joint dislocation and soft
tissue trauma were mostly detected in the upper extremities, bone
fractures in the lower extremities, and organ injury in the thorax.
Conclusion: Shoulder and wrist traumas were the most common injuries
among the patients with skiing experience while tibial fractures were
mostly seen in those without such experience. Tibia fractures were
mostly observed in the patients using protective equipment, and skin
incisions in those that did not use protective equipment. Therefore, in
winter sports injuries, patients’ skiing experience and protective
equipment use should be questioned and more attention should be paid to
the above-mentioned injuries.