bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plus Paternal — A Case for Change
Authors: VON SALDERN Simon
Published: November 2022

Background: The health of mothers and babies is rightly prioritised within our health system, but men have needs as they seek to, and become fathers, that are often overlooked. Fertility specialists are well placed to empower men and support meaningful improvements in psychosocial health in the planning for and transition to fatherhood.

Aim: Healthy Male’s ‘Plus Paternal: a focus on fathers’ project sought to establish the current situation in Australia in relation to paternal health, and to identify opportunities for improvement.

Method: Evidence was gathered through surveys of men and health professionals, literature reviews, consultations and a review of national strategies and guidelines. This forms the ‘Plus Paternal Case for Change’ 1 .

Results: Non-birthing parents, most commonly men, are poorly engaged by reproductive health services. They are often viewed as secondary to achieving pregnancy and child-rearing – welcome, but not active participants. There is no systematic approach to engage, recognise, or support their needs during this critical life transition. This leaves men feeling undervalued and overlooks their fertility and health needs, as well as their contribution to healthy pregnancies and families.

The ‘Plus Paternal Case for Change’ sets seven goals for change, calling for the collective efforts to challenge traditional stereotypes and to improve the experiences, psychosocial health of men and families. An increasing number of organisations have endorsed these goals and joined the Plus Paternal Network to progress meaningful change.

Conclusion: Policy, systems and practice-level changes are required to create a more inclusive health system — one that recognises the evolving roles, expectations and needs of both parents.

Fertility services are asked to reflect on their systems and practice, and to take steps to ensure that fathers and prospective fathers are proactively engaged and supported as equal parenting partners.
Slow Development of Day 5 Embryo Leads to Compromised Live Birth But Not Birthweight Outcomes
Authors: WATSON Kate , ONG Kee , KORMAN Irving , TURNER Ross , VOLLENHOVEN Beverley , ZANDER-FOX Deirdre , LIU Yanhe
Published: November 2022

Background: There is currently no consensus regarding developmental cutoff for fresh transfer of slow developing day 5 embryos on. Literature is sparse regarding true prognosis of such embryos.

Aim: To investigate live birth and birthweight outcomes of slow developing day 5 transferred embryos.

Method: This retrospective multi-center study included 1213 consecutive autologous-oocyte single fresh day 5 transfers performed at 4 Monash IVF clinics during 2016-2019. Repeat cycles by same patients were excluded to avoid clustering effects. Live birth and birthweight were followed up in all pregnancies. Multiple regression was performed to investigate associations between slow day 5 development (defined as ≤ early blastocyst) and (a) live birth, (b) birthweight, and (c) gestation-adjusted birthweight (Z score) to account for gestational age and gender. Results were expressed as adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results: No implantation was achieved when day 5 embryo failed to reach early blastocyst stage (i.e. ≤morula, n=76). Live birth rate was significantly lower following transfer of early blastocysts (n=237, 16%), in comparison to expanding (n=329, 27%, P=0.001), expanded (n=392, 41%, P=0.000), and ≥hatching blastocysts (n=169, 44%, P=0.000). After adjusting for maternal age, hours post insemination at day 5 assessment, number of oocytes collected, number of 2PNs, and number of embryos frozen; multiple logistic regression showed a significantly reduced likelihood of live birth resulting from early blastocysts in reference to expanding (aOR=0.584, 0.371-0.917, P=0.020), expanded (aOR=0.322, 0.208-0.501, P=0.000), or ≥hatching stages (aOR=0.255, 0.147-0.443, P=0.000). However, early blastocysts resulting in live birth (n=39) did not alter birthweight or Z score in reference to expanding (n=90, P>0.05 respectively), expanded (n=160, P>0.05 respectively), or ≥hatching (n=75, P>0.05 respectively).

Conclusion: There is no clinical value of fresh transferring day 5 embryos at ≤morula stage. Fresh early blastocysts lead to a reduced live birth rate but not birthweight outcomes.
Androgen Actions in Adipose Tissue, But Not Skeletal Muscle, are Involved in the Development of Metabolic PCOS Features in a Mouse Model
Authors: XIONG Ting , PARIS Valentina RODRIGUEZ , EDWARDS Melissa C. , COCHRAN Blake J. , RYE Kerry-Anne , LEDGER William L. , PADMANABHAN Vasantha , HANDELSMAN David J. , GILCHRIST Robert B. , WALTERS Kirsty A.
Published: November 2022

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder characterised by endocrine, reproductive and metabolic dysfunction. Hyperandrogenism is a key diagnostic trait and evidence supports a role for androgen receptor (AR) mediated actions in PCOS pathogenesis. Aberrant AR signalling in adipose tissue and muscle have been proposed as being involved in PCOS pathogenesis, but their importance and the precise AR signalling mechanisms involved remain undefined.

Aim: To investigate the role of AR signalling in white adipose tissue (WAT), brown adipose tissue (BAT) and skeletal muscle in the development of PCOS.

Method: WT, global androgen receptor knockout (ARKO) and skeletal muscle-specific (SkMARKO) mice were exposed to DHT to induce PCOS. ARKO (AR−/−) WAT/BAT was transplanted into WT (AR+/+) DHT-induced PCOS females, and WT WAT/BAT was transplanted into ARKO DHT-induced PCOS females. After 12 weeks of DHT exposure all mice were assessed for the presence of reproductive and metabolic PCOS traits.

Results: DHT exposure in WT females induced key reproductive and metabolic PCOS traits. SkMARKO mice treated with DHT displayed a similar phenotype to DHT-treated WT females, with full development of reproductive and metabolic PCOS traits. Transplantation of ARKO WAT/BAT into DHT-treated WT females prevented the development of some metabolic PCOS features, as mice exhibited a significantly lower body weight (P<0.05), decreased visceral adiposity (P<0.05), and smaller adipocyte size (P<0.05) compared to DHT-treated WT females with sham surgery. In contrast, reproductive PCOS traits were not ameliorated by WAT or BAT transplantation. Furthermore, DHT exposure in ARKO female mice transplanted with WT WAT/BAT did not lead to the development of PCOS traits.

Conclusion: WAT and BAT, but not skeletal muscle, are key sites of AR-mediated actions involved in the development of metabolic PCOS traits. These data support targeting adipocyte AR-driven pathways in future research aimed at developing novel therapeutic interventions for PCOS.
Warming Oocytes with a Universal Warming Medium and Protocol is as Good as the Company Media and Protocols
Authors: CHEN Penny , GOLECHHA Trishla , GADDAM Greeshma , PINNADUWA Sharika , YASMIN Farjana , Aarshiya  , NAIK Nehal , SELVARAMANUJAM Preethi , KALRA Sanya , CATT Sally
Published: November 2022

Background: A universal warming media and protocol would simplify exchange and use of oocytes and embryos between different IVF centres.

Aim: The aim of this study was to compare a universal warming medium and protocol (Parmegiani et al, 2014 RBMonline 28, 614-23) with 3 other warming media and protocols which were used with their corresponding vitrification media (2 commercial, one in house) measuring survival (pre and post insemination combined), fertilization and blastocyst rate.

Method: This was a prospective study on 300 mature cumulus-free F1 mouse oocytes divided between three vitrification protocols, SAGE™ vitrification (S), RapidVit™ Omni by Vitrolife (V), and the in house ‘MCE-Trehalose’ (M) designed for mouse embryos. Oocytes for each vitrification group (S,V & M) were divided equally to be warmed either by the corresponding warming protocols (S/S, V/V & M/M and or the universal warming protocol (S/U, V/U and M/U). Surviving oocytes were inseminated in vitro with 250,000 motile sperm/ml 2h after warming (18 oocytes were not retrieved post-warm).

Results: V/V (25%), V/U (42%) had significantly lower survival than all other groups S/S (72%), S/U (76%), M/M (91%), M/U (82%; P<0.01, Fishers Exact), but no other differences were observed. Fertilization rates [S/S (43%), S/U (40%), V/V (62%), V/U (57%), M/M (59%), M/U (45%)] and blastocyst rates [S/S (61%), S/U (41%), V/V (60%), V/U (75%), M/M (54%), M/U (60%)] did not differ.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the universal warming protocol had similar outcomes to the other 3 warming protocols, thus shows promise for warming oocytes vitrified by any vitrification protocol within and between species. Also, demonstrated is that IVF can be used for vitrified oocytes, and thus can provide an option tother than using ICSI clinically, but more studies finding the most suitable clinical media and protocol are needed.
Nutritional Geometry of Male Fertility: Moving Beyond The ‘High-Fat’ Diet
Authors: PINI Taylor , AHMAD Gulfam , BARRES Romain , SIMPSON Stephen , CREAN Angela
Published: November 2022

Background: Females are given extensive dietary recommendations both during and prior to pregnancy, but similar guidelines for males trying to conceive are conspicuously absent. There is an urgent need to fill this knowledge gap because male fertility is in decline, with rising rates of obesity likely to be a contributing factor. Yet, we understand surprisingly little about nutritional impacts on male fertility.

Aim: To examine the individual and interactive effects of protein, carbohydrates, and fats on male reproductive traits, we conducted a nutritional geometry study in adolescent C57Bl6 male mice.

Method: Mice were fed one of ten isocaloric diets differing only in macronutrient balance (n = 6/diet) from 5 to 20 weeks of age. Reproductive organs were fixed/frozen and processed for a range of fertility-related measures.

Results: We found that different aspects of reproductive function were influenced by different macronutrients. Testis mass and expression of HSD17B3 (testosterone biosynthesis) were positively related to the proportion of protein in the diet. In contrast, dietary fat had a stronger influence on male body mass and seminal vesicle mass. Both dietary protein and fat were found to influence testicular expression of genes with antioxidant functions (GSS, GPX1, GPX4). The number of seminiferous tubules and degree of vacuolation within seminiferous tubules were influenced by complex interactive effects between macronutrients.

Conclusion: This foundational study suggests that a far more nuanced approach is required to develop pre-conception dietary recommendations for males, and reveals exciting new directions for research.
Investigating Uterine Natural Killer Cells Through Next Generation Sequencing — A Pilot Gene Expression Study
Authors: TEH Wan Tinn , ROGERS Peter
Published: November 2022

Background: Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells form the major leucocyte population in the stroma in late secretory phase endometrium. Their actual function is unknown with available data suggesting a potential role in angiogenesis regulation, decidualization and placentation. Next generation sequencing (NGS) can be used to accurately define day of menstrual cycle through endometrial gene expression. Genes uniquely expressed by uNK are currently unknown. However, previous studies of first trimester decidua and blood have identified genes that are uniquely expressed by these NK cells.

Aim: To identify potential molecular markers of uNK cells.

Method: Endometrial samples were collected from 266 reproductive aged women across menstrual cycle. Gene expression profiles in endometrial tissues were generated using Illumina NovaSeq platforms. Gene expression data was normalized for cycle stage. Expression levels of previously known NK cell genes were examined across menstrual cycle.

Results: Our analysis has shown that many NK cell genes (95% decidual, 71% peripheral) are expressed by the endometrium. We have identified 12 common genes that are expressed by both decidual and peripheral NK cells, and the endometrium. Expression levels of these common genes (except one) share a similar pattern across menstrual cycle. Their expression levels increase in secretory phase endometrium with peak expression levels at late secretory phase, as predicted by what is known about changing uNK cell numbers in endometrium. One example is the gene NCAM1 which codes for protein CD56 - a specific marker for uNK cells.

Conclusion: This study has shown that it is possible to assess uNK cells through molecular approaches. Further molecular study of uNK cells is warranted and will help to provide evidence regarding uNK cells in human reproduction.
Leading Virtually
Authors: Bell Bradford S. , McAlpine Kristie L. , Hill N. Sharon
Published: November 2022

The growth in virtual work is reshaping how leaders interface with their followers: Face-to-face interactions are increasingly being supplanted by virtual exchanges. To advance understanding of the implications of leading in this changing environment, we apply functional leadership theory to synthesize the findings of the virtual leadership research that has been conducted across different leadership perspectives and levels of analysis. We identify four traditional leadership functions that empirical research suggests have a stronger effect on follower need satisfaction in virtual settings and highlight a new function—facilitate the use of technology—as particularly germane to virtual leadership. Our review reveals several promising future research directions, including the need to examine the effects of leadership along the full spectrum of virtuality and to consider the unique challenges that leaders may encounter in hybrid work environments. We also outline important practical implications for organizations, leaders, and their followers.
On the Ratio of Cathodic and Anodic Processes during Electroreduction-Electrooxidation of Hafnium in Molten Salts
Authors: Kuznetsov S. A.
Published: November 2022

Investigation of hafnium cathodic and anodic processes in chloride melts containing HfCl4 revealed that two-hafnium electroreduction processes are corresponded two electrooxidation processes. The only difference between these processes was the presence of salt passivation under certain dissolution conditions. In chloride-fluoride melts containing K2HfF6 the number of cathodic and anodic processes can be different due to the amount of hafnium ions passing into the melt during anodic dissolution exceeding the amount of fluorine anions necessary to bind them into fluoride complexes. Based on the experimental data it was found that the conclusion about the mirror reflection of cathodic and anodic processes is invalid in the case of a heteroligand composition of melts. It was determined that the dissolution in the NaCl-KCl-K2HfF6 (10 wt%) melt at the anodic current density of >0.02 А∙cm−2 was accompanied by the formation of Hf(IV) fluoride complexes and Hf(II) chloride complexes. It was shown that the appearance of hafnium complexes with different valence during anodic process in the NaCl-KCl-K2HfF6 (10 wt%) melt is a highly undesirable phenomenon, which leads to the formation of metallic film on the surface of the melt decreasing the current efficiency for coating deposition.
Conservative Management of Cervical Pregnancy with the Administration of Methotrexate and Potassium Chloride: A Case Report
Authors: Javedani Masroor Mojgan , Zarei Anna , Sheibani Hossein
Published: November 2022

Background. Cervical pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy in which the fetus implants and grows inside the endocervical canal. This report aims at introducing a case of successful conservative management of cervical ectopic pregnancy. Case presentation. The patient was a 35-year-old woman, who had received treatment for primary infertility for 5 years. She complained of painless bleeding on day 37 of gestational age with a start point from 10 days before. The patient had stable vital signs and was referred to Shahid Akbar Abadi Hospital in Tehran affiliated with the Iran University of Medical Sciences. In the ultrasonography, the pregnancy sac and the yolk sac with the embryonic pole with a positive fetal heart rate were presented and located near the internal os, so the cervical pregnancy was diagnosed, and after treatment with intramuscular methotrexate and intra-amniotic administration of potassium chloride, a gradual decrease in β-HCG levels was observed without the need for additional interventional treatment. Conclusion. The primary takeaway of our report is that the conservative treatment, including intramuscular methotrexate and intrauterine potassium chloride administration, may be effective in treating cervical pregnancy that can be detected early without the use of curettage.
Identification of the circRNA–miRNA–mRNA Regulatory Network in Pterygium‐Associated Conjunctival Epithelium
Authors: Yu Jianfeng , Luo Jiawei , Li Pengfei , Chen Xiaojuan , Zhang Guowei , Guan Huaijin
Published: November 2022

To investigate the regulatory mechanism of pterygium formation, we detected differentially expressed messenger RNAs (DE‐mRNAs) and differentially expressed circular RNAs (DE‐circRNAs) in pterygium‐associated conjunctival epithelium (PCE) and normal conjunctival epithelium (NCE). Genome‐wide mRNA and circRNA expression profiles of PCE and NCE were determined using high‐throughput sequencing. Bioinformatics analyses, including Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis, were conducted. The microRNAs (miRNAs) interacting with the hub DE‐mRNAs and DE‐circRNAs were predicted and verified using real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR). The data showed that there were 536 DE‐mRNAs (280 upregulated and 256 downregulated mRNAs) and 78 DE‐circRNAs (20 upregulated and 58 downregulated circRNAs) in PCE. KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that the DE‐mRNAs were mainly involved in the following biological processes: IL‐17 signalling pathway, viral protein interaction with cytokine and cytokine receptor, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, ECM‐receptor interaction, and focal adhesion. The GSEA results revealed that the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) process was significantly enriched in upregulated mRNAs. The pterygium‐associated circRNA–miRNA–mRNA network was established based on the top 10 DE‐circRNAs, 4 validated miRNAs (upregulated miR‐376a‐5p and miR‐208a‐5p,downregulated miR‐203a‐3p and miR‐200b‐3p), and 31 DE‐mRNAs. We found that miR‐200b‐3p, as a regulator of FN1, SDC2, and MEX3D, could be regulated by 5 upregulated circRNAs. In addition, we screened out EMT‐related DE‐mRNAs, including 6 upregulated DE‐mRNAs and 6 downregulated DE‐mRNAs. The EMT‐related circRNA–miRNA–mRNA network was established with the top 10 circRNAs, 8 validated miRNAs (upregulated miR‐17‐5p, miR‐181a‐5p, and miR‐106a‐5p, downregulated miR‐124‐3p, miR‐9‐5p, miR‐130b‐5p, miR‐1‐3p, and miR‐26b‐5P), and 12 EMT‐related DE‐mRNAs. We found that hsa_circ_0002406 might upregulate FN1 and ADAM12 by sponging miR‐26b‐5p and miR‐1‐3p, respectively, thus promoting EMT in pterygium. Briefly, the study provides a novel viewpoint on the molecular pathological mechanisms in pterygium formation. CircRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks participate in the pathogenesis of pterygium and might become promising targets for pterygium prevention and treatment.
Advancements in the Use of Hydrogels for Regenerative Medicine: Properties and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Revete Andrea , Aparicio Andrea , Cisterna Bruno A. , Revete Javier , Luis Luis , Ibarra Ernesto , Segura González Edwin A. , Molino Jay , Reginensi Diego
Published: November 2022

Due to their particular water absorption capacity, hydrogels are the most widely used scaffolds in biomedical studies to regenerate damaged tissue. Hydrogels can be used in tissue engineering to design scaffolds for three-dimensional cell culture, providing a novel alternative to the traditional two-dimensional cell culture as hydrogels have a three-dimensional biomimetic structure. This material property is crucial in regenerative medicine, especially for the nervous system, since it is a highly complex and delicate structure. Hydrogels can move quickly within the human body without physically disturbing the environment and possess essential biocompatible properties, as well as the ability to form a mimetic scaffold in situ. Therefore, hydrogels are perfect candidates for biomedical applications. Hydrogels represent a potential alternative to regenerating tissue lost after removing a brain tumor and/or brain injuries. This reason presents them as an exciting alternative to highly complex human physiological problems, such as injuries to the central nervous system and neurodegenerative disease.
Chordin-Like 2: A Possible Therapeutic Target for Gastric Cancer by Affecting Cell Cycle and Proliferation
Authors: Zhou Yuan , Cao Guangxin , Guan Zhifeng , Mao Cui
Published: November 2022

Purpose. This study aimed to examine the role of chordin-like 2 (CHRDL2) in gastric cancer. Methods. The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets were screened and the differentially expressed gene CHRDL2 was identified. The CHRDL2 expression was examined in the Human Protein Atlas and TCGA. Clinical data on gastric cancer were evaluated for their association with CHRDL2 by using TCGA and KM-plotter databases. The possible relationship amongst CHRDL2, immune cells, and related genes was investigated via the TIMER database. Enrichment analysis was performed using GO and KEGG pathways to explore the mechanisms. Results. Screening of databases revealed that CHRDL2 was a differentially expressed gene. An increase in cytoplasmic CHRDL2 expression was found in cancer tissues compared with the surrounding normal tissues. The data, together with those from TCGA and the KM-plotter databases, showed that patients with gastric cancer with high level of CHRDL2 have worse prognosis than those with low expression. A strong correlation was found between CHRDL2 expression and T stage, race, pathological grade, and pathological type according to clinical data analysis. CHRDL2 expression is linked to immune infiltration, as shown by the TIMER database. The data suggested that CHRDL2 plays a pivotal role in the tumor microenvironment of gastric cancer and might help tumor cells evade the immune system. Gene set enrichment analysis showed that CHRDL2 is involved in the chemokine signaling route, the intestinal immune network, the MAPK pathway, cell cycle, and the PI3K-Akt signaling system that are associated with the pathological processes of gastric cancer. Conclusion. Patients with gastric cancer with decreased CHRDL2 levels have dramatically improved OS, PFS, and PPS. CHRDL2 plays a pivotal role in enabling tumor cell immune evasion in tumor microenvironment, suggesting a function of this gene in the development of gastric cancer and its immune infiltration. Interfering with CHRDL2 may slow down the development of this malignancy by affecting cell cycle and apoptosis pathways.
Simplified Algorithm of Moving Object Trajectory Based on Interval Floating
Authors: Chen Xuesong , Yang Zhiying , Liu Yingjie
Published: November 2022

This paper proposes an online trajectory simplification algorithm based on interval floating. The accumulated angle deviation is used in the algorithm, and the bounded error theorem of interval floating is presented. First, the accumulated angle deviation starts from the nearest reserved point. Next, the sum of the angle deviations generated by the subsequent trajectory points is continuously calculated. When the simplified threshold is reached for the first time, it is will be judged whether the simplified threshold interval needs to be floated as well as the next reservation in the floating error interval. It is worth noting that the interval between two adjacent reserved points floats only once. The algorithm is tested on real trajectory data, and the experimental results show that the algorithm has an improved simplification rate with a certain simplification error.
An Optimized and Energy-Efficient Ad-Hoc On-Demand Distance Vector Routing Protocol Based on Dynamic Forwarding Probability (AODVI)
Authors: Gizachew Yirga Hailu , Desalegn Taye Gizatie , Mulugeta Melaku Henock
Published: November 2022

MANET (mobile ad-hoc network) is a wireless ad-hoc network made up of mobile devices that use peer-to-peer routing to provide network access instead of using a preexisting network infrastructure. Despite the network infrastructure’s simplicity, it faces issues such as changeable connection capacity, dynamic topology, node battery power exhaustion, and inadequate physical security. Broadcasting is a standard MANET approach for sending messages from a source node to all other nodes in the network. Flooding is a frequent method for broadcasting route request (RREQ) packets, which is susceptible to broadcast storms. The high retransmission rate is caused by the standard flooding technique, which causes media congestion and packet collisions, which can drastically reduce throughput and network performance. In a mobile ad-hoc network, efficient broadcasting focuses on selecting a compact forward node set while assuring broadcast coverage. The goal is to find a limited number of forward nodes that will provide complete coverage. In this paper, we propose an optimized and energy-efficient routing protocol for MANET (mobile ad-hoc network) based on dynamic forwarding probability in general and AODV (ad hoc on-demand distance vector) in particular, in which the route request packets are randomly controlled to increase the network lifetime and reduce packet loss in the flooding algorithm. We tested and assessed the results of our proposed solution using various network performance factors after implementing and integrating it into NS-2. According to simulation findings, our proposed technique effectively reduced route request propagation messages (RREQ). The suggested technique is more efficient, has a longer network lifetime, and uniformly utilizes node residual energy, enhancing network throughput and minimizing routing overhead when compared to regular and modified AODV protocols.
Re-Alkalization Effect Experiment and a New Re-Alkalization Control Model of Carbonated Concrete
Authors: Zou Zhenghao , Yang Guojiao , Chen Fang , Long Fumei , Li Qingyu , Jiang Rong , Zhang Haiping
Published: November 2022

The re-alkalization technology of carbonated concrete can effectively restore the alkalinity of concrete, but the effect of re-alkalization is affected by many factors, such as the voltage, electrolyte concentration, and current conduction time. In this paper, the re-alkalization effect of carbonated concrete under different parameter changes is studied, and the feasibility of re-alkalization technology and the selection range of parameters in its application are determined. Results show that the voltage should be controlled below 12 V or above 16 V and can be adjusted properly; the electrolyte concentration should be controlled at 0.5 molL−1; and the current conduction time is determined according to the control model. Finally, a new re-alkalization control model is obtained by regression of test data to control the re-alkalization process.
The Association of Complements, TGF-β, and IL-6 with Disease Activity, Renal Damage, and Hematological Activity in Patients with Naïve SLE
Authors: Yuliasih Yuliasih , Rahmawati Lita Diah , Nisa’ Nabilatun , Prastayudha Cahaya
Published: November 2022

Several key player factors, such as cytokine and complement, play an important role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The purpose of this study was to reveal the association between complement 3 (C3), complement 4 (C4), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) with SLE disease activity, renal damage, and hematological activity in patients with naïve SLE. The Laboratory of Clinical Pathology Dr. Soetomo General Hospital in Surabaya performed all laboratory examinations on thirty women with naïve SLE. The SLE diagnosis is based on ACR criteria (1998 revised criteria) from Dr. Soetomo General Hospital Surabaya, Indonesia, and the systemic lupus activity measurement (SLAM) score is used to assess the disease activity. The correlation was statistically tested using the Spearman and Pearson tests. The differences in cytokine and complement levels are between SLE severity groups using the two-way Anova and Kruskal–Wallis. The unpaired T-test and Mann–Whitney test were used to determine the differences between the relatively normal and the more severe groups of organ damage and hematological activity. All tests were two-tailed, analyzed with GraphPad Prism 9 for windows, and a

p

value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. This study found a significant decrease in C3 (20.2, 16.4–24.2 mg/dL) and C4 (7, 6–14.3 mg/dL) and an increase in IL-6 (35.60 ± 7.43 mg/dL) and TGF-β (311.1 ± 290.8 mg/dL) in the group of severe patients with SLAM scores >30. Although there is no significant relationship between SLAM and renal impairment or hematologic activity, patients with higher SLAM had a significant decrease in complement; this complement decrease was also significant in patients with higher leukocyte counts. An insignificant increase in cytokines was also observed in patients with higher SLAM. Patients with high serum creatinine levels had a significant increase in TGF-β, whereas those with a faster ESR had a significant increase in IL-6. In conjunction with complements evaluation, assessment of the cytokine profile may become a promising marker for reliable diagnosis and treatment of SLE in the future.
Socioeconomic correlates of Adequate Maternal Care in Bangladesh: Analysis of the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017‐18
Authors: Methun Md. Injamul Haq , Haq Iqramul , Uddin M. Sheikh Giash , Rahman Azizur , Islam Saiful , Hossain Md. Ismail , Ume Shatabdi Shamrita , Habib Md. Jakaria , Roy Sutopa
Published: November 2022

Introduction. In recent times, Bangladesh has made significant improvements in various health outcomes, but not so much in maternal death. The current flat trend in reducing maternal mortality in Bangladesh has been mainly due to the lower coverage of maternal health care. To improve the coverage, it is essential to find biosocial factors related to adequate maternal health care. Therefore, this study is aimed at finding out the socioeconomic correlates of adequate maternal health care in Bangladesh. Methods. The study used data from the Bangladeshi demographic and health survey 2017‐18. The total unweighted sample of 4012 women who reported pregnancy before three years of the survey was analyzed. A composite binary indicator of adequate maternal care has been constructed using the variables—access to maternal care service, four antenatal care visits, at least one visit with qualified providers, and institutional delivery. A binary logistic regression model was employed to find out the socioeconomic correlate of adequate maternal care. Results. Only 24.4% percent of sample women received adequate maternal care. The result of the logistic regression model shows that urban, Khulna, Rajshahi, and Rangpur were associated with an increase in the odds of having adequate maternal care. High education and health care decisions taken by the partner or husband were also associated with an increased odd of adequate maternal care. Islam and lower wealth status were associated with a lower probability of adequate maternal care. Conclusions. Policymakers and health administration should pay attention to the variation in the utilization of maternal health care across residence, region, religion, education, and wealth status to ensure safe motherhood.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Xanthines: A Short Review
Authors: Kapri Anandi , Gupta Nitin , Nain Sumitra
Published: November 2022

Xanthine and its derivatives are considered a pharmacologically potential moiety that manifests immense biological activities. Owing to this much diversity in the biological field, this scaffold has fascinated the attention of many researchers around the globe to scrutinize its basic structure chemically as well as biologically. In recent years, xanthine derivatives have been used therapeutically in different pathological conditions due to their presence in day-to-day life. Herein, we review the recent progress in the synthesis of xanthine and its derivatives. Some of the widely used synthetic strategies such as (a) Traube’s synthesis, (b) one-pot synthesis, (c) xanthine-anneleated synthesis, and (d) miscellaneous synthesis were compiled in this review paper. The results obtained from this review paper highlight the significance of various xanthine derivatives as possible leads to the development of new drugs. The data compiled in this review paper could help the medicinal chemist in designing new active compounds from the modification of the already existing compounds in the search for novel drug leads. This report concludes that the various synthetic procedures exemplified in this review paper may serve as a support system for the designing of new molecules with a xanthine scaffold. Thus, we hope that this molecule may serve as the prototype in order to find out more active xanthine derivatives.
Association between Oral Chinese Herbal Medicine and Recurrence and Metastasis in Patients with Stages II and III Colorectal Cancer: A Cohort Study in China
Authors: Tang Mo , Zhang Wei , Qin Wenyu , Zou Chao , Yan Yunzi , He Bin , Xu Yun , Zhang Ying , Liu Jianping , Sun Hong , Yang Yufei
Published: November 2022

Background. To evaluate the associations between long-term oral Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) and recurrence and metastasis (R&M) in patients with stage II and III colorectal cancer (CRC). Furthermore, we aimed to determine the correlation between different syndrome patterns and prognosis and summarized the regularities among CHMs prescriptions, providing reference for clinical practice. Methods. An ambispective cohort study was conducted. All CRC patients who sought evaluation and treatment at Xiyuan Hospital and Beijing Cancer Hospital from August 2014 to August 2016 were included. In this study, “whether patients voluntarily take CHMs” was taken as the exposure factor, and the exposure degree was “the duration of CHM use.” Stratification was performed according to the duration of TCM use to determine the relationship with R&M of CRC. The primary outcome was disease-free survival. Patients who had R&M of CRC after taking CHMs for ≥6 months were defined as “worst patients.” R software was used for statistical analysis. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression analysis were used to determine the prognosis. IBM SPSS was used to model a priori association rules; drug use rules were analyzed on this basis. Results. A total of 186 patients with stage II and III CRC after radical resection were enrolled. All patients reached the study endpoint by August 2021. The difference in disease-free survival between the two groups was most significant when the cutoff value for CHMs was 18 months (

P
=
0.0012

). Multivariate analysis showed that 18 CHMs were independent protective factors for R&M of CRC (

P
=
0.001

, HR = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.08–0.53). The ratio of Pi (spleen) and Shen (kidney) deficiency in the worst cases was higher than patients without R&M (

P
=
0.018

). Sijunzi and Liuwei Dihuang decoctions were the most frequently used prescriptions in the anti-R&M phase. Conclusion. CHMs complying with the “Jianpi Bushen” principle may attenuate the risk of R&M in patients with stage II and III CRC. Pi (spleen) and Shen (kidney) deficiency in patients receiving TCM intervention for the first time within 6 months of radical resection may be associated with a higher CRC R&M rate. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and elucidate underlying biological mechanisms.
Ewing’s Sarcoma of Mandible: Practical Approach to a Challenging Case
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammad Saeid , Sheida Fateme , Ameri Ahmad , Javadinia Seyed Alireza , Farahani Farhad , Soltaninia Omid , Moaddab Shoar Leila , Sedighi Pashaki Abdolazim , Gharib Mohammad Hadi , Abbasi Rohollah , Keshtpour Amlashi Zahra
Published: November 2022

As a rare entity, sarcomas of the head and neck are challenging cases. In this paper, we represent a unique case of Ewing sarcoma of mandible, serving as an example of multidisciplinary team importance in a developing country.
ІСТОРІЯ БОРОТЬБИ З ХОЛЕРОЮ В НАСТІЛЬНИХ МЕДАЛЯХ
Authors: Андрейчин М.А. , Барштейн В.Ю.
Published: November 2022

Наведено короткі історичні відомості про досягнення у вивченні холери та роль окремих вчених у дослідженні її етіології, епідеміології, клініко-патогенетичних особливостей і розробці лікувальних і протиепідемічних заходів. Досліджено та описано 18 настільних медалей, що ілюструють окремі події в минулій боротьбі з холерою або виготовлені на честь видатних вчених, які здійснили вагомий внесок у розв’язання цієї проблеми. Медалі введено в науковий медичний обіг.
Біоелектрична активність musculus masseter у стані спокою в осіб із повною відсутністю зубів на нижній щелепі
Authors: Пелехан Б. Л. , Рожко М. М. , Пелехан Л. І.
Published: November 2022

Резюме. Поверхнева електроміографія – це золотий стандарт електрофізіологічних методів діагностики нервово-м’язових захворювань. М’язові волокна при функціональному стані спокою біоелектричної активності не проявляють. Проте існують незначні ритмічні потенціали дії, які необхідні для підтримки положення м’яза у просторі. Спонтанну активність м’язових волокон реєструють лише в умовах патології.
Мета дослідити – вивчити якісні та кількісні показники стану біоелектричної активності mm. masseter dexter et sinister у пацієнтів із потребою ортопедичного лікування повної відсутності зубів на нижній щелепі.
Матеріали і методи. На базі кафедри стоматології післядипломної роботи Івано-Франківського національного медичного університету (ІФНМУ) ми провели первинне обстеження 138 осіб: 108 пацієнтів із потребою ортопедичного лікування повної відсутності зубів на нижній щелепі та 30 осіб віком 23–28 років з інтактними зубними рядами, які склали контрольну групу. Дослідження проводили у два етапи. На першому етапі ми обстежили пацієнтів та осіб контрольної групи шляхом анкетування за коротким Гамбурзьким тестом щодо визначення ступеня дисфункції скронево-нижньощелепного суглоба (СНЩС). За результатами першого етапу сформовано 3 клінічні групи, яким проведено другий етап дослідження: електроміографічне обстеження власне жувальних м’язів у стані відносного фізіологічного спокою.
Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Середні значення максимальних амплітуд (мкВ) біопотенціалів власне жувальних м’язів у стані відносного фізіологічного спокою для осіб контрольної групи становили 18,74 мкВ справа та 19,31 мкВ – зліва. Зафіксовано підвищення середніх показників у пацієнтів першої групи обстеження – на 31,4 % справа та на 17,4 % зліва відносно показників осіб контрольної групи. У другій групі обстеження рівні показників були на 73,2 % справа та на 76,9 % зліва вищі за показники при виконанні аналогічних проб у групі контролю. Середні значення максимальних амплітуд (мкВ), отримані у результаті електроміографічного обстеження пацієнтів третьої групи, становили 203,4 % справа та 181,1% зліва порівняно з показниками контрольної групи.
Висновки. Середні значення мкВ у стані відносного фізіологічного спокою демонструють фізіологічний стан м’язово-суглобових структур. При сформованій м’язово-суглобовій дисфункції середні показники біоелектричної активності зросли на 203,4 % справа та на 181,1% зліва порівняно з контролем. Не зафіксовано суттєвого підвищення середніх значень показників у стані відносного фізіологічного спокою у пацієнтів із потребою ортопедичного лікування повної відсутності зубів на нижній щелепі першої та другої груп порівняно з контрольною групою.
МОРФОЛОГІЧНІ ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ПЛАЦЕНТИ ПРИ ОБОЛОНКОВОМУ ПРИКРІПЛЕННІ ПУПОВИНИ
Authors: Дубецький Б. І. , Макарчук О. М.
Published: November 2022

Мета дослідження – оцінка морфологічних особливостей плацент у пацієнток з оболонковим прикріпленням пуповини у взаємозв’язку з імовірним ризиком виникнення критичних станів плода.

Матеріали та методи. Проведено ретроспективне дослідження та оцінку морфологічних особливостей плацент у 62 пацієнток, із них у 32 із оболонковим прикріпленням пуповини, які народили доношені плоди у стані асфіксії різного ступеня тяжкості. Застосовано інструментальні методи обстеження стану плода, доплерометрію, макроскопічне та гістологічне дослідження плацентарної тканини, статистичні методи обчислення.

Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. Встановлено фактори ризику оболонкового прикріплення пуповини: молодий вік (20–25 років), багатоплідна вагітність, зміна індексу навколоплідних вод, синдром затримки розвитку плода, патологічні передлежання та положення плода. Народження плодів у критичному стані пов’язано з оболонковим прикріпленням пуповини, низькою масою плаценти, низьким плацентарно-плодовим коефіцієнтом та порушенням матково-плодового кровообігу.

Висновки. Ризик народження плодів у критичному стані зростає при оболонковому прикріпленні пуповини у 4,4 раза, оперативне розродження проведено в 2,1 раза частіше.
C-REACTIVE PROTEIN AS A BIOCHEMICAL CRITERION OF A GENERAL INFLAMMATORY SYNDROME IN LYME DISEASE IN CHILDREN
Authors: Nykytyuk S. O. , Klumnyuk S. I. , Levenets S. S. , Vorontsova T. О.
Published: November 2022

The aim of the study – to improve the methods of non-specific biochemical markers of Lyme disease.

Materials and Methods. A group of children (62) aged from 1 to 14 years was observed for the identification of pathogens of blood-borne infections among children. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein and acute phase reagent as well as the information base for the interpretation and analysis of clinical observations of CRP.

 Results and Discussion. There were studied the concentrations of acute-phase response proteins including CRP in children with Lyme disease. We found that circulating of CRP levels as well as concentrations> 3 mg/ml was significantly higher in the group of children with Lyme arthritis cohort than in the control group (P <0.05).

Conclusions. C-reactive protein concentration is a very useful but non-specific biochemical marker of inflammation, the measurement of which makes an important contribution to the screening of Lyme borreliosis in children.
РІВЕНЬ ВІТАМІНУ D У ДІТЕЙ З ОЗНАКАМИ COVID-19
Authors: Павлишин Г. А. , Панченко О. І.
Published: November 2022

Мета дослідження – вивчення вітамін D-статусу в дітей з ознаками COVID-19 та його зв’язку з тяжкістю захворювання.

Матеріали та методи. Проведено обстеження 73 дітей віком від 6 до 18 років, серед яких 45 осіб були з клінічними проявами лабораторно підтвердженої SARS-CoV-2 інфекції та 28 дітей без ознак COVID-захворювання. Оцінено клінічний перебіг захворювання та лабораторні показники (С-реактивний білок, ШОЕ, D-димер). За тяжкістю перебігу захворювання сформовано 2 групи: 17 дітей із легким перебігом COVID-19 склали першу групу, 28 пацієнтів із середньотяжким та тяжким перебігом захворювання – другу групу. Діти без будь-яких проявів інфекційних захворювань (28 осіб) склали контрольну групу. Всім дітям проведено визначення рівня 25-ОН вітаміну D (Accu Bind ELISA Microwells). Оптимальний рівень вітаміну D розцінювали при показниках 30–100 нг/мл, недостатність вітаміну D – при 20–30 нг/мл, дефіцит вітаміну D – при концентрації менше 20 нг/мл. Статистичний аналіз проводили за допомогою програми «Stat Plus» (обчислювали критерій Шапіро–Вілка, mean±SD при правильному розподілі ознаки; медіану, верхній та нижній квартилі при її неправильному розподілі, критерій χ2,  критерій Крускала–Уолліса, коефіцієнт кореляції.

Результати дослідження та їх обговорення. У більшості пацієнтів із COVID-19 спостерігали підвищення температури, у дітей із легким перебігом переважала субфебрильна температура, у дітей другої групи температура була вищою за 38 °С.  Субфебрильну температуру тіла відмічали у 88,2 % дітей із легким перебігом COVID-19 та у 3,7 % дітей другої групи (р<0,05, χ2=32,2, статистично достовірна відмінність). Водночас гіпертермія понад 38 °С спостерігалася у 92,6 % пацієнтів із середньотяжким та тяжким перебігом, причому в дітей першої групи температура тіла не піднімалась вище 38 °С, (р<0,05, χ2=35,4, статистично достовірна відмінність). Середня тривалість лікування була вищою в 1,5 раза у другій групі дітей.

Встановлено зниження середніх значень вітаміну D у пацієнтів із COVID-19 порівняно з контрольною групою, причому спостережено зменшення концентрації вітаміну D в сироватці крові пацієнтів на фоні зростання тяжкості перебігу захворювання. У дітей із COVID-19 при оптимальному рівні вітаміну D відмічено нижчі показники ШОЕ, СРБ та С-димеру, ніж у дітей із недостатністю та дефіцитом цього вітаміну. Встановлено негативний середньої сили кореляційний зв’язок між рівнем вітаміну D та показниками ШОЕ, СРБ та D-димеру.

Висновки. Тяжкий перебіг COVID-19 характеризується більшою тривалістю та вираженістю гіпертермічного синдрому, тривалим лікуванням, вищими показниками СРБ, ШОЕ, D-димеру та зниженням рівня вітаміну D.
APPLICATION OF ART THERAPY IN ‘ASTHMA SCHOOL’ IN ADOLESCENTS WITH UNCONTROLLED AND PARTIALLY CONTROLLED BRONCHIAL ASTHMA
Authors: Fedorciv O. Ye. , Volyanska L. A. , Burbela E. I.
Published: November 2022

The aim of the study – to increase the effectiveness of providing medical care to children, taking into account the child's individual and psychological characteristics, constitutional and somatic characteristics of the body and its adaptive capabilities.

Materials and Methods. Our work is a part of the comprehensive scientific work "Prognostic criteria for metabolic disorders in children with somatic pathology in the ecosocial conditions of the Ternopil region" (state registration number 0113U001240) and the Belarusian Ukrainian Polish Asthma Study (BUPAS) epidemiological research.

We conducted a survey of 38 child patients (from 11 to 15 years) with asthma who were hospitalized to the allergic department in children’s hospital. They were observed by physicians and were questioned on asthma control questionnaire (ACQ-5), Eisenk EPI personal questionnaire, Phillips’ questionnaire, Spielberger’s test. To correct the problems which were founded in adolescent patients, we have created a modified version of Astma School and combined it with art therapy, elements of methods of neuro-linguistic programming, dance-motor therapy and also used the creative visualization and body-oriented psychotherapy.

Results and Discussion. The complex of art therapy, added to standard therapy, positively influenced on the level of controllability in asthma and lowered personal and situational anxiety in children. During the training in the right breath with the help of art therapy in patients with asthma, anxiety was reduced: personal in 58.33 %, against 10.53 % in protocol treatment, situational in 66.67 %, against 10.53 %, and improved control of the disease comparatively with an initial level of 75.00 % versus 42.11 %, which significantly (p <0.05) reflects the higher efficacy of the complementary symptomatic treatment.

Conclusion. It is proved that correction of BA therapy taking into account individual peculiarities of the psychosomatic state of the patient contributes to increasing the effectiveness of treatment.