bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disparate Access To Breast Cancer Screening And Treatment
Authors: Castaldi Maria , Smiley Abbas , Kechejian Katharine , Butler Jonathan , Latifi Rifat
Published: June 2021

Background: Barriers to breast cancer screening remain despite Medicaid expansion for preventive screening tests and implementation of patient navigation programs (PNP) under the Affordable Care Act. Women from underserved communities experience disproportionately low rates of screening mammography. This study compares barriers to breast cancer screening among women at an inner-city safety-net center (City) and those at a suburban county medical center (County). Inner city and suburban county medical centers’ initiatives were studied to compare outcomes of breast cancer screening and factors that influence access to care.Methods: Women 40 years of age or older delinquent in breast cancer screening were offered PN services between October 2014 and September 2019. Four different screening time-to-event intervals were investigated: time from PN acceptance to screening mammography, to diagnostic mammography, to biopsy, and overall screening completion time. Barriers to complete breast cancer screening between the two centers were compared.Results: Women from lowest income quartiles took significantly longer to complete breast cancer screening when compared to women from higher income quartiles when a barrier was present, regardless of barrier type and center. Transportation was a major barrier to screening mammography completion, while fear was the major barrier to abnormal screening work up. Table 1.Conclusion: Disparity in breast cancer screening and management persists despite implementation of a PNP. In the presence of a barrier, women from the lowest income quartiles have prolonged breast cancer screening completion time regardless of center or barrier type. Women who experience fear have longest screening time completion. Future directions aim to increase resource allocation to ameliorate wait times in overburdened safety-net hospitals as well as advanced training for PN to alleviate women’s fears.
SERS on Bimetallic Nanostructured thin films
Authors: s revathy m , Murugesan D , Jayram Naidu Dhanpal
Published: June 2021

Thin films and Surface Enhanced Raman spectroscopy have a strong bonding towards development of Sensors. From last 4 decades SERS has been used as effective tool for detection of toxic dyes, in food industry and agriculture world. To minimize the cost and fabrication over large surface is the most challenging task in substrate fabrication. In the present work an attempt has been made towards dual coatings, which could act as an effective SERS Substrates. An effective and facile approach of low cost bi-metallic Nanostructured film has been fabricated using thermal evaporation. Using the standard characterization techniques such as FE-SEM and XRD, the obtained films were Rhodamine 6G was used as an analyte for the SERS studies. The detection of R6G was up to 10− 10mol l− 1solution.The present bi-metallic coating can be serves as an excellent SERS active surface and provides a versatile pathway to fabricate anisotropic nanostructure on a glass film.
The Relationship Between Mindfulness And Mental Health: A Mediating Model of Sense of Purpose In Life Among Graduate Students
Authors: Wang Yibin , Tian Tian , Wang Junjie
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the present study is to examine the relationship between mindfulness and mental health of graduate students and the mediating effects of sense of purpose in life on mindfulness and mental health.The participants include 419 graduate students from 6 universities in China.The Hayes Process is adopted to analyze the effects of the sense of purpose in life on mindfulness and mental health of graduate students.The results reveals that mindfulness can predict the mental health of graduate students positively and significantly.The sense of purpose in life is found to mediate the relationship between mindfulness and mental health.In further moderated mediation analyses,the effect of mindfulness on mental health can be adjusted by family economic condition.The type of degree can adjust the effect of mindfulness on sense of purpose,and professional interest can adjust the mediating effect of sense of purpose.Finally,this study discusses several empirical and methodological implications of the findings.
Reproductive Hormones Imbalance, Germ Cell Apoptosis, Abnormal Sperm Morphophenotypes and Ultrastructural Changes in Testis of African Giant Rats (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse, 1840) Exposed to Sodium Metavanadate Intoxication
Authors: Usende Ifukibot Levi , Oyelowo Fatima Oyenike , Adikpe Agbonu Oluwa , Emikpe Benjamin Obukowho , Nafady Allam Abdel Hamid Mohamed , Olopade James Olukayode
Published: June 2021

Environmental exposure to vanadium has been on the increase in recent time. This metal is a known toxicant. The current study was conducted to investigate the reproductive toxicity of sodium metavanadate (SMV) in male African giant rats. Administration of SMV was done intraperitoneally daily for 14 consecutive days at a dosage of 3mg/kg body weight. Sterile water was administered to the control group. We analyzed serum reproductive hormones, sperm reserve and quality as well as testicular ultrastructural changes following SMV treatment. Our results showed SMV exposed AGR group had statistically increased progesterone but decreased testosterone, FSH and LH concentrations. Also, SMV treated group had statistically decreased sperm motility and mass activity with increased percentage of abnormal morphophenotypes of spermatozoa and upregulation of P53 immunopositive cell. Ultrastructural study revealed vocuolation of germ and Sertoli cells, cytoplasmic and nucleus; and mitochondrial swelling and vacuolations were also observed. There was severe disintegration of the seminiferous tubules, atrophy and degeneration of myeloid cells and apoptosis of the Leydig, Sertoli and germ cells. In conclusion, intraperitoneal SMV exposure exerts severe adverse effects on some serum reproductive hormones, reduction of sperm reserve and quality, apoptosis and degenerative changes of the Leydig, Sertoli and germ cells which can lead to infertility.
Public Perception of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Chinese Social Networking Service (Weibo): Sentiment Analysis and Fuzzy-C-Means Model
Authors: Han Feng , Zhang ZiHeng , Zhang HongJian , Aoki Tomohiko , Ogasawara Katsuhiko
Published: June 2021

BackgroundSocial media analysis tools have been used to monitor public sentiment and communication methods during public health emergencies.Public health emergencies are required to better understand the impact of the crisis on the public and to provide reference material for the prevention of future public health emergencies. We are concentrating on the sentiments around the public health emergency created by COVID-19.ObjectiveThis study aims to better understand the impact of public health emergencies on citizens and provide reference material for future public health emergency prevention.MethodsThe Fuzzy-c-means method was used to divide the 850,083 content of Weibo from January 24, 2020, to March 31, 2020, into seven categories of emotions: fear, happiness, disgust, surprise, sadness, anger, and good. The changes in emotion were tracked over time.ResultsThe results indicated that people showed "surprise" overall (55.89%); however with time, the "surprise" decreased. As the knowledge regarding the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) increased (contents about COVID-19 knowledge: from 21.16% to 4.19%), the "surprise" of the citizens decreased (from 59.95% to 46.58%). Citizens' feelings of "fear" and "good" increased as the number of deaths associated with COVID-19 increased ("fear”: from 15.42% to 20.95% "good”: 10.31% to 18.89%). As the infection was suppressed, the feelings of "fear" and "good" diminished ("fear”: from 20.95% to 15.79% "good”: from 18.89% to 8.46%).ConclusionsIn this study, the emotions and changes in emotions of Weibo users were analyzed in chronological order. The results of this study can prepare for future public health emergencies.
MiR-124 Promotes Microglial M2 Polarization Through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB p65/NLRP3 Signaling In Palmitic Acid Treated-BV2 Cells
Authors: Yang Caixia , Sui Guanghong , Chen Zheng , Wang Feng
Published: June 2021

AimNeuroinflammation is an explanation why obesity or high-fat diet induce central nervous system disorders. MiR-124, as a highly expressed microRNA in brain, might alleviate neuroinflammation through regulating microglial M1/M2 polarization, but its mechanism is unclear. The aim of the study was to explore whether miR-124 exerted its effect mentioned above through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB p65/NLRP3 signaling in palmitic acid treated-microglia.MethodsPrepared BV2 cells were treated with palmitic acid to establish an in vitro model of high-fat diet. MiR-124 mimic and inhibitor were adopted to up-regulate and down-regulate the expression of miR-124. TAK-242 and NLRP3 siRNA were used to down-regulate the expression of TLR4 and NLRP3. Expression of miR-124, signaling proteins (TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB p65), inflammasome markers (NLRP3, IL-1β) and microglial polarization markers (CD206, Arg-1, CD86, iNOS) was measured by qPCR and western blotting. Pyroptosis rate was assessed using flow cytometry.ResultsFirst, palmitic acid up-regulated the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB p65 signaling, increased the NLRP3 expression, elevated the pyroptosis rate and inhibited the M2 polarization in BV2 cells. Second, miR-124 mimic and inhibitor separately alleviated and aggravated the effect of palmitic acid on microglial polarization and NLRP3 expression. MiR-124 mimic also down-regulated the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB p65 signaling. Third, TAK-242 did not affect the expression of miR-124, but can simulate the protective effect of miR-124 mimic on microglial polarization and NLRP3 expression. Fourth, NLRP3 siRNA can also promoted M2 polarization in BV2 cells.ConclusionMiR-124 promoted microglial M2 polarization through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB p65/NLRP3 signaling in palmitic acid treated-BV2 cells
Cinobufacini Injection Suppresses the Proliferation of Human Osteosarcoma Cells by Inhibiting PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Changbao , Zhai Yu , Chen Yuru , Yuan Ye , Hua Shengyu , Wang Yu
Published: June 2021

Background: Cinobufacini injection (CI), an aqueous extraction from the Cutis Bufonis, is broadly used in clinical treatment of cancer in China. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of CI in treating osteosarcoma (OS) remain unclear. Aberrant activation of PI3K-AKT signaling pathway is the cause of many types of cancer, including OS. Therefore, we investigated the effect of CI on proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle of OS cells and elucidated the molecular mechanism of CI in inhibiting OS cells. Methods: Cell proliferation of U2OS and MG63 cells after CI treatment was measured by CCK-8 assay, colony formation and morphological changes. Additionally, the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induced by CI, were determined by FACS and Western blot analysis. The mechanisms of CI on OS were evaluated by RNA-seq and Western blot analysis. Results: We founf that CI reduced the proliferation of U2OS and MG63 cells in a dose- and time- dependent manner. Furthermore, CI induced the U2OS cells cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase, but the MG63 cells cycle arrest in G2/M phase. Consequently, CI triggered the apoptosis in both OS cells, with enhanced caspase-3 activity and decreased expression of Bcl-2/Bax. In addition, RNA-seq data indicated that PI3K-Akt signaling pathway played an essential role in CI treatment. Moreover PI3K and phosphorylation of AKT (p-AKT) were significantly down-regulated by CI in both OS cells. Conclusions: These results indicate that CI significantly inhibited the proliferation, induced the cell cycle arrest, as well as apoptosis in human OS cells, which is mediated by the inactivation of PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. These findings suggest that CI may have potential for the treatment of OS.
Dual blockade of IL-6 and CTLA-4 regresses pancreatic tumors in a CD4+ T-cell-dependent manner.
Authors: Ware Michael , McQuinn Christopher , Zaidi Mohommad , Knochelmann Hannah , Robinson Brian , Herting Cameron , Mace Thomas , Chen Zhengjia , Zhang Chao , Farren Matthew , Ruggieri Amanda , Bowers Jacob , Shakya Reena , III Alton Farris , Young Greg , III William Carson , El-Rayes Bassel , Paulos Chrystal , Lesinski Gregory B.
Published: June 2021

This study aimed to enhance anti-tumor immune responses to pancreatic cancer via antibody-based blockade of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4). Mice bearing subcutaneous MT5 or orthotopic KPC-luc pancreatic tumors were treated with antibodies to IL-6, CTLA-4, or the combination. This combination significantly inhibited tumor growth, accompanied by overwhelming T-cell infiltration. Tcell depletion studies unveiled a unique dependence on CD4+ T-cells for anti-tumor activity of this combination therapy. In vivo blockade of CXCR3 prevented orthotopic tumor regression in the presence of the combination treatment, demonstrating an integral role for the CXCR3 axis in mediating efficacy. Increased expression of CXCR3 on tumor infiltrating cells was observed by IHC and by PCR. These data represent the first report of IL-6 and CTLA-4 blockade as a means to regress pancreatic tumors with defined operative mechanisms of efficacy. Given these results, this therapeutic combination has potential for immediate clinical translation.
Central Aortic Cannula Disruption Following Left Atrial Myxoma Excision
Authors: Kashyap Nitin Kumar , Nandy Pritam , Magatapalli Kishan , Sahani Preetam , Dantis Klein
Published: June 2021

Background Central aortic cannulation is used to give oxygenated blood to the patient through a heart-lung machine. Major surgical intraoperative bleeding during cardiac surgery is a dreaded complication, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Central Aortic cannula disruption during Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is a rare complication which needs prompt management. Case Presentation We are reporting a case of central aortic cannula disruption during LA myxoma excision in which the Metal tip part of the cannula detached from its body, resulting in massive blood loss. Intraoperative blood salvage technique was used to maintain hemodynamics during surgery.Conclusion Aortic cannula disruption is a rare complication and can be lethal to the patient, if not managed timely. Before cannulation, proper visual inspection of all cannulae by team members is very important to eliminate this type of complication.
Reaction Kinetics of Levulinic Acid Synthesis from Glucose Using Bronsted Acid Catalyst
Authors: Toif Meutia Ermina , Hidayat Muslikhin , Rochmadi Rochmadi , Budiman Arief
Published: June 2021

Glucose is the primary derivative of lignocellulosic biomass, which is abundantly available. Glucose has excellent potential to be converted into valuable compounds such as ethanol, sorbitol, gluconic acid, and levulinic acid (LA). Levulinic acid is a very promising green platform chemical. It is composed of two functional groups, ketone and carboxylate groups which can act as highly reactive electrophiles for nucleophilic attack so it has extensive applications, including fuel additives, raw materials for the pharmaceutical industry, and cosmetics. The reaction kinetics of LA synthesis from glucose using hydrochloric acid catalyst (bronsted acid) were studied in a wide range of operating conditions, i.e., temperature of 140-180 oC, catalyst concentration of 0.5-1.5 M, and initial glucose concentration of 0.1-0.5 M. The highest LA yield is 48.34 %wt at 0.1 M initial glucose concentration, 1 M HCl, and temperature of 180 oC. The experimental results show that the bronsted acid catalyst's reaction pathway consists of glucose decomposition to levoglucosan (LG), conversion of LG to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), and rehydration of HMF to LA. The experimental data yields a good fitting by assuming a first-order reaction model.
Rhoifolin Alleviate Alcoholic Liver Disease by Inhibiting the TLR4 / NF-kB Signaling Pathway and Attenuating Oxidative Stress
Authors: Mai Baoyu , Han Ling , Zhong Jiarui , Cao Zelin , Fang Jiaqi , Zhang Xiaoying , Gao Zelin , Xiao Fengxia
Published: June 2021

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is caused by long-term excessive consumption of alcohol, which is affected by TLR4 / NF-kB mediated inflammatory response and CYP2E1-mediated oxidative stress effects. Rhoifolin (ROF) is a flavonoid compound in Citrus grandis ‘Tomentosa’, with antioxidant and anti-inflammation effect. However, the action of its effect on ALD has been elucidated yet. In the present study, we investigated ROF’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapoptotic action in the treatment of ALD. In established ALD mice, ROF promoted hepatic function through downgrading the amount of aminotransferase, attenuating oxidative stress, and restoring antioxidant balance in hepatic tissue. Additionally, ROF significantly reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines, such as NF-kB, TNF-a, IL-6, and IL-1b in the mice. In vitro experiments indicated that ROF increased the LO2 cells viability and inhibited cells apoptosis. ROF reversed the expression of CYP2E1, NLRP3, p-p65, p-IkB and TLR4, which were consistent with animal experiment. Overall, ROF can alleviate ethanol-induced liver injury through inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation, and is a promising compound for ALD treatment.
The Potential Function of KIF17 in Large Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys crocea) Spermatid Remodeling: Molecular Characterization and Expression Pattern During Spermiogenesis
Authors: Wang Jingqian , Liu Zhao , Gao Xinming , Du Chen , Hou Congcong , Tang Daojun , Lou Bao , Shen Weiliang , Zhu Jun-Quan
Published: June 2021

KIF17, which belongs to the kinesin-2 protein family, plays an indispensable role in mammalian spermiogenesis. However, the role of KIF17 in fish spermatid remodeling during spermiogenesis remains poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to study the role of KIF17 in spermatid remodeling during Larimichthys crocea (L. crocea) spermiogenesis. The kif17 cDNA sequence, 3247 bp in length, was cloned from L. crocea testis, which consisted of a 347 bp 5ʹ-untranslated region (UTR), 413 bp 3ʹ -UTR, and 2487 bp open reading frame. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that KIF17 obtained from L. crocea (Lc-KIF17) exhibited a high sequence identity compared with those from other teleosts and possessed the structural features of other kinesin-2 proteins. Based on structural similarity, we speculate that the role of Lc-KIF17 may be similar to that of KIF17 in other animals. Lc-kif17 mRNA was diffusely expressed in L. crocea tissues and was highly expressed in the testis, especially at stage IV testicular development. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that Lc-KIF17 signals colocalized with β-tubulin signals and migrated from the perinuclear cytoplasm to the side of the nucleus where the tail forms during spermiogenesis. These findings revealed that KIF17 may be involved in L. crocea spermiogenesis. In particular, KIF17 may participate in spermatid remodeling by interacting with perinuclear microtubules during L. crocea spermiogenesis. Collectively, this study contributes to an improved understanding of the mechanism underlying L. crocea spermiogenesis and provides a basis for further research on L. crocea reproduction and development.
Effect of Induction of Labor on Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes in Low-Risk Singleton Pregnancies: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Qinjian Zhang , Siwen Chen , Xia Xu , Huale Zhang , Jianying Yan
Published: June 2021

Background: To investigate the effect of induction of labor on maternal and fetal outcomes. Methods: This retrospective case-control study included 4386 pregnant women with low-risk singleton pregnancies who underwent regular prenatal examination and successful vaginal delivery at ≥41 weeks and 0 days of gestation in Fujian Maternal and Child Health Hospital between January 2014 and December 2018. Clinical data were reviewed according to the mode of labor initiation; the women were divided into an induction of labor group (2007 cases) and a spontaneous onset of labor group (2361 cases). Two-sample independent t-test and χ 2 tests were used to analyze the differences in clinical characteristics such as maternal age and parity between the two groups. Results: The induction of labor group had a significantly longer total duration of labor (9.37±5.37 vs. 8.82±5.13 h; P<0.001), was associated with more postpartum blood loss (219.18±188.32 vs. 199.95±124.69 mL; P=0.01), and had a significantly higher incidence of severe postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) (0.8% [16/2007] vs. 0.33% [8/2361]; P=0.041) than the spontaneous onset of labor group. However, no significant difference was found in the neonatal outcomes. After adjusting for age, induction of labor in nulliparous women was more likely to lead to PPH than spontaneous onset of labor (2.74% [55/2007] vs. 1.65% [39/2361]; odds ratio=1.557; 95% confidence interval: 1.039–2.332; P<0.05]. Conclusion: Induction of labor increases postpartum blood loss, especially in primary parturients, leading to an increased risk of PPH, which may be related to the prolongation of the total duration of labor. Therefore, low-risk nulliparous women should try to avoid induction of labor without medical indications.
BET Protein Inhibition Evidently Enhances Sensitivity to PI3K/mTOR Dual Inhibition in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Miao Xiaolong , Gong Weihua
Published: June 2021

Background & Aims: Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), the second most common primary liver cancer, is a fatal malignancy with a poor prognosis. Molecular targeted therapy is a promising treatment strategy. However, resistance to molecular-targeted therapy is inevitable and represents a major clinical challenge. Our objective was to provide a novel and efficient therapeutic strategy in treating primary ICC.Approach & Results: We generated an orthotopic ICC mouse model through hydrodynamic transfection of AKT and YAP into mouse liver. Genetic approaches were applied to study the mechanism that mediated resistance to a PI3K/mTOR dual inhibitor in mediating AKT/YapS127A-driven tumorigenesis. Haematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting were applied to assess the efficacy of ICC combination therapy in vitro and in vivo.Conclusions: We confirmed that mTOR signalling is the most significantly affected pathway in ICC. BEZ235, a novel PI3K/mTOR dual inhibitor, can suppress the proliferation, invasion and colony formation abilities of ICC cells in vitro but cannot effectively inhibit ICC progression in vivo. The inhibition of PI3K/mTOR allowed the upregulation of c-Myc and YAP through the suppression of the phosphorylation of LATS1. This is a novel mechanism that mediates resistance to PI3K/mTOR dual inhibitors. However, BET inhibition by JQ1 downregulates c-Myc and YAP transcription, which could enhance the efficacy of PI3K/mTOR inhibitors. The efficacy results of combination therapy exhibited effective treatment of ICC in vitro and in vivo. Our data further confirmed that the combination of a PI3K/mTOR dual inhibitor and BET inhibition induces M1 polarization and suppresses M2 polarization in macrophages by regulating the expression of HIF-1a.
A Scientometric Introspect of Literary Warrants Published in Annals of Library and Information Studies (ALIS) during the Last Decade
Authors: Esh Manash , Ghosh Saptarshi LIS
Published: June 2021

Scientometric studies are enduring studies that portray an organized visual of messy data. The current study is a scientometric study based on secondary data sets included in Scopus. A corpus of 311 documents published in the journal Annals of Library and Information Studies (ALIS) from 2011 to 2020 was the population of the study. The study focused on several characteristics of the journal, including article distribution, average author per document, average document per year, authorship productivity, collaboration index, country-wise distribution of documents and citation analysis. The study retrieved the most prolific author contributing to this journal with 19 articles. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the University of Delhi were the top literary contributors to the ALIS journal. The University of Kerala got the most citations per document (6.833). The maximum count of author keywords (Scientometrics) used in the journal from 2011 to 2020 was 135.
Salivary Cystatin S in Children With Early Childhood Caries in Comparison With Caries-free Children; Statistical Analysis and Machine Learning
Authors: Koopaie Maryam , Salamati Mahsa , Montazeri Roshanak , Davoudi Mansour , Kolahdooz Sajad
Published: June 2021

Background: Early childhood caries is the most common infectious disease in childhood, with a high prevalence in developing countries. Recognition of the factors affecting early childhood caries and its pathophysiology, allows better control of disease. Cystatin S as one of the salivary proteins, has an important role in pellicle formation, tooth re-mineralization and protection. The aim of the present study is to assess salivary cystatin S levels and demographic data in early childhood caries children in comparison with caries-free ones using statistical analysis and machine learning methods. Methods: A cross-sectional case-control study was undertaken on 20 cases of early childhood caries and 20 caries-free children as a control group. Unstimulated whole saliva samples by suction method was collected. Cystatin S concentrations were determined using human cystatin S ELISA kit. A checklist was collected for each participant about the demographic characteristics, oral health status and dietary habits by interviewing parents. The regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was done to evaluate the potential role of cystatin S salivary level and demographic using machine learning and statistical analysis.Results: The mean value of salivary cystatin S concentration in early childhood caries group was 191.55±81.90 (ng/ml) and in caries-free group was 370.06±128.87 (ng/ml). T-test analysis showed that there is a statistically significant difference between early childhood caries and caries-free group in salivary cystatin S level (p: 0.032). Investigation of area under the curve and accuracy of ROC curve revealed that logistic regression model based on the salivary cystatin S levels and birth weight had most and acceptable potential for discriminating of early childhood caries from caries-free controls. After that the machine learning models and finally salivary cystatin S levels had more capability for differentiation of early childhood caries from caries-free controls.Conclusion: Salivary cystatin S in caries-free children was higher than the children with early childhood caries. Therefore, cystatin S protein can be used as a biomarker for early prediction of early childhood caries, furthermore cystatin S is a protective factor against dental caries.
Patient and Health worker experiences on Utilization of Community Client Led ART Delivery Model in South-Western Uganda: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Kintu Timothy Mwanje , Ssewanyana Anna Maria , Kyagambiddwa Tonny , Nampijja Pretty Mariam , Apio Patience Kevin , Kitaka Jessica , Kabakyenga Jerome Kahuma
Published: June 2021

BackgroundIn an effort to accommodate the growing number of stable HIV clients, improve retention in care and reduce health care burden the differentiated service delivery (DSD) models were introduced in 2014. One such model, Community Client Led ART Delivery (CCLAD) was rolled out in Uganda in 2017. The extent of utilization of this model has not been fully studied. The aim of the study was to explore the patient and health worker experiences on the utilization of CCLAD model at Bwizibwera Health Centre IV, south western Uganda.MethodsThis was a descriptive study employing qualitative methods. The study had 68 purposively selected participants who participated in 10 Focus Group Discussions with HIV clients enrolled in CCLAD; 10 in-depth interviews with HIV clients not enrolled in CCLAD and 6 health workers. Key informant interviews were held with the 2 focal persons for DSD. The discussions and interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and then translated. Both deductive and inductive approaches were employed to analyse the data using in NVivo software. ResultsPatient and health worker experiences in this study were categorized as drivers and barriers to the utilization of the CCLAD model. The main drivers for utilization of this model at different levels were: individual (reduced costs, living positively with HIV, improved patient self-management), community (peer support and contextual factors) and health system (reduced patient congestion at the health centre, caring health workers as well as CCLAD sensitization by health workers). However, significant barriers to the utilization of this community-based model were: individual (personal values and preferences, lack of commitment of CCLAD group members), community (stigma, gender bias) and health system (frequent drug stockouts, certain implementation challenges, fluctuating implementing partner priorities, shortage of trained health workers and insufficient health education by health workers).ConclusionBased on our findings the CCLAD model is meeting the objectives set out by Differentiated Service Delivery for HIV care and treatment. Notwithstanding the benefits, challenges remain which call on the Ministry of Health and other implementing partners to address these hindrances to facilitate the scalability, sustainability and the realisation of the full-range of benefits that the model presents.
Electronic Properties of Orthorhombic, Tetragonal and Monoclinic KDP by First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Xu Xia , Yang Ning , Tang Bin , Liu Qi-Jun
Published: June 2021

The electronic properties of KDP (KH2PO4), in orthorhombic, tetragonal and monoclinic phases, have been investigated by using the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) within density functional theory. The comparison of the calculated band gap of the tetragonal crystal and the experimental results shows that the band gap of this paper is very close to the experimental results. In addition, this work calculates the effective mass of KDP for the first time. The effective mass of electrons in the conduction bands of the orthorhombic phase is greater than that of the tetragonal phase, so the mobility of electrons in the tetragonal phase is higher than that of the orthorhombic phase. The calculated DOS shows that the lower conduction band is composed of the K-3p states, P-3p states and O-2p states. There is a strong hybridization between P and O orbitals.
Acute Macular Neuroretinopathy After COVID-19 Vaccine
Authors: Michel Tony , Stolowy Natacha , Gascon Pierre , Dupessey Florence , Comet Alban , Attia Ruben , David Thierry , Denis Daniele
Published: June 2021

We report the case of a 21-year-old female patient with unilateral acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN) two days after the administration of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccination.
Panel Data Modelling of COVID-19 Infected Cases
Authors: ARUNACHALAM RAJARATHINAM , PAKKIRISAMY TAMILSELVAN
Published: June 2021

Background and Objective: The novel coronavirus pandemic, known as COVID-19, could not have been more predictable; thus, the world encountered health crises and substantial economic crises. This paper analyses the trends in COVID-19 cases in October 2020 in four southern districts of Tamil Nadu state, India, using a panel regression model. Materials and Methods: Panel data on the number of COVID-19-infected cases were collected from daily bulletins published through the official website www.stopcorona.tn.gov.in maintained by the Government of Tamil Nadu state, India. Panel data regression models were employed to study the trends. EViews Ver.11. Software was used to estimate the model and its parameters. Results: In all four districts, the COVID-19-infected case data followed a normal distribution. Maximum numbers of COVID-19-infected cases were registered in Kanniyakumari, followed by Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Tenkasi districts. The fewest COVID-19 cases were registered in Tenkasi, followed by Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Kanniyakumari districts. A random e2ffects model was found to be an appropriate model to study the trend.Conclusion: The panel data regression model is found to be more appropriate than traditional models. The Hausman test and Wald test confirmed the selection of the random effects model. The Jarque-Bera normality test ensured the normality of the residuals. In all four districts under study, the number of COVID-19 infections showed a decreasing trend at a rate of 1.68% during October 2020.
Clinical Profile And Risk Factors of Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST) in Sudan
Authors: Ibrahim Etedal Ahmed A , Mohamed Rofiedah Eisa Hassan , Ahmed Khabab Abbasher Hussien Mohamed , Omer Mohammed Eltahier Abdalla
Published: June 2021

Background

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is relatively uncommon cause of stroke mainly affects young ladies, with a wide spectrum of symptoms severity and prognosis. In this study we aim to study the clinical profile and Risk Factors of CVST among Sudanese patients in Khartoum state hospitals.
Methods

This is an observational cross-sectional multi-center hospital based study which covered 37 participants, in three major hospitals in khartoum, with radiologically confirmed Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST)
Results

37 patients were included in this study, The mean age of patients was 38.5 ± 13.4 years, with minimum age of 23 years and maximum of 75 years, the largest group (n = 18, 48.6%) were in the range between “26–35” years, regarding gender distribution (n = 8; 21.6%) were males and the majority of patients were female (n = 29; 78.4%), the commonest presenting feature was headache (n = 35; 94.6%), followed by blurring of vision (n = 25; 67.6%), while seizures is a presenting symptom in nearly half of the patients (n = 17; 45.9%), on examination papilloedema was present in 83.8%. In this study 13.8% were pregnant, 31.0% were postpartum, OCPS user account for 27.%, and No risk factor present in 32.4%. regarding the involved sinus Sagittal Venous Sinus and the transverse sinus were the most affected sinuses. Regarding treatment options: “low molecular weight heparin followed with warfarin” was found in 81.1%, followed with heparin only 10.8%, while the new agents NOACs comprised only 8.1%.
Conclusion

The study concluded that Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis is mainly a disease of child-bearing women, although significant proportions of men were affected. Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis presents in a wide variety of signs and symptoms.
Evaluation of an effective detection and quantification method for particular microorganisms by comparing NGS-based metagenome profiling data
Authors: Han Kyudong , Jeong Jinuk , Mun Seyoung , Oh Yunseok , Cho Chun-Sung , Yun Kyeongeui , Ahn Yongju , Chung Won-Hyong , Lim Mi Young , Hwang Tae Soon
Published: June 2021

Metagenome profiling research using next-generation sequencing (NGS), a technique widely used to analyze the diversity and composition of microorganisms living in the human body, especially the gastrointestinal tract, has been activated, and there is a growing interest in the quantitative and diagnostic technology for specific microorganisms. According to recent trends, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) are still of considerable technique in detecting and quantifying bacteria associated with the human mouth, nasal cavity, and pharynx due to analytical cost and time burden of NGS technology. Here, based on NGS metagenome profiling data produced by utilizing 100 gut microbiota samples, we conducted a comparative analysis of identifying for five bacterial genera proportions (Akkermansia, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Phascolarctobacterium, and Roseburia) within same metagenomic DNA samples through qRT-PCR assay in parallel. Genus-specific primer, targeting the particular gene of each genus for qRT-PCR assay, allowed a statistically consistent quantification pattern with the metagenome profiling data. Furthermore, results of bacterial identification through Sanger validation demonstrated the high genus-specificity of each primer set. Therefore, our study suggests that an approach to quantifying specific microorganisms by applying qRT-PCR method can compensate for the concerns (potential issues) of NGS while also providing efficient benefits to various microbial industries
Potential Predictors and Response Quality after Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Kostroma Ivan Ivanovich , Sidorova Zh.Yu. , Semenova N.Yu. , Zhernyakova A.A. , Sabitova R.R. , Svitina S.P. , Stepchenkova E.I. , Bessmeltsev S.S. , Chechetkin A.V. , Gritsaev S.V.
Published: June 2021

Aim. To assess the rate of cases without antitumor response quality improvement after high-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT) in multiple myeloma (MM). To assess the rate of allelic variants of IL1B, IL6, IL10, TNF genes and the status of hematopoietic niche cells as potential predictors of au-to-HSCT efficacy. Materials & Methods. A retrospective analysis was based on the data of 84 MM patients who received 112 auto-HSCTs, including 84 first and 28 repeated courses. Response variants were estimated according to IWG criteria. Molecular profiling of IL1B, IL6, IL10, and TNF genes was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with subsequent analysis of restriction fragment length polymorphism of PCR products. To analyze the status of hematopoietic niche cells histological, immunohistochemical, and morphometric methods were applied. Results. The first auto-HSCT yielded response quality improvement in 29 (54.7 %) out of 84 patients. The rate of complete response was significantly higher in patients who showed very good partial response before HDCT with au-to-HSCT, than in patients with partial response (PR), i.e., 57.9 % and 18.2 %, respectively (p = 0.005). No differences were identified in the groups of patients with other clinical and hematological parameters. After the second auto-HSCT in 4 out of 6 patients with PR the response variant did not change. A significant decrease of MM activity was associated with IL6 (-174С) mutant allele carrier status of 81.3 % vs. 41.6 % in the group with the unchanged response variant (р = 0.05). Response quality improvement was also related to a large number of cells on the endosteum in histological specimens of bone marrow (p = 0.038). Conclusion. The carrier status of IL6 (-174С) pathologic allele as well as the number of cells on the endosteum in histological specimens of bone marrow can be regarded as predictors of response quality improvement or lack thereof in MM patients after auto-HSCT.
Effect of heat stress on the values of biochemical blood parameters of dairy cattle
Authors: LUTNICKI KRZYSZTOF , MIĘTKIEWSKA KLAUDIA , KUREK ŁUKASZ
Published: June 2021

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of heat stress on differences between selected biochemical blood parameters in cows in June and October, taking into account different housing systems and cooling systems used. The research was carried out on 60 cows from stanchion barns (farm A) and loose-house barns (farm B). Material for research, venous blood, was collected at the same time, in the morning, after milking and clinical examination. Then, parameters describing the energy balance and the activity indexes of the parenchymal organs as well as the mineral balance were determined. Milk production in both farms was clearly lower in June than in October, but the difference between milk yields obtained from the two farms was over 15% in June and only less than 10% (5-6 kg of milk) in October. Both farms A and B showed an increase in aspartate aminotransferase and creatine kinase. In farm A, the statistically significant increase exceeded the normal physiological range, which could indicate developing disturbances in the locomotor system caused by the impact of high temperature. Energy balance disturbances occurred only in farm A, where a statistically significant decrease in glucose and cholesterol concentration was found in June samples, which, according to the authors, could be related to a higher energy demand. The results of biochemical tests of venous blood collected in June may indicate the onset of fatty liver in cows (decreased cholesterol, glucose, and total protein levels, as well as increased bilirubin levels and GGTP activity) as a consequence of exposure to high temperatures. Heat stress has a significant impact on the functioning of the cow’s organism, which will not always be manifested by characteristic clinical signs. Accurate laboratory analyses make it possible to diagnose changes developing as a result of cows being exposed to heat stress.
The nerve supply of the mammary gland
Authors: FRANKE-RADOWIECKA AMELIA
Published: June 2021

Proper development and functioning of the mammary gland depends not only on hormones, but also on the nervous system. The aim of this paper was to summarize the existing knowledge on the innervation of the mammary gland in various mammalian species, including domestic animals. In general, the pattern of innervation of this gland is similar in all studied species, i.e. large farm animals, rodents, dogs and beavers, as well as humans. Using the pan-neuronal marker of neural structures PGP-9.5, it was found that the mammary gland is well supplied with nerve fibres. Very rich innervation was discovered in the nipple, and less numerous nerve endings were found in the parenchyma. Nerve fibres supply the skin, especially the nipple, and many nerve terminals are associated with blood vessels and smooth muscles throughout the organ. Immunohistochemical investigations have made it possible to distinguish two major subpopulations of nerve fibres supplying the mammary gland. One of them consists of putative sensory fibres expressing CGRP, SP, GAL and/or PACAP, and the other is presumably composed of adrenergic axons containing TH, DBH, SOM and/or VIP. Studies on the sources of innervation of the mammary gland have confirmed assumptions about the nature of the nerve fibres and have revealed that they derive from the spinal ganglia (DRG) and sympathetic trunk ganglia (SChG). In the rat, mammary gland-projecting (MGP) neurons were also found in the nodose ganglion. So far, the rat and the pig have been tested most comprehensively for the sources of the mammary gland innervation. The MGP sensory neurons were observed ipsilaterally in several consecutive DRG, suggesting that the same neurons supply several successive glands. In the case of the SChG, it was found that MGP neurons are located, among others, in the L1-L4 ganglia, which constitute a specific „mammary gland nerve centre”. Previous studies on the sources of nerve supply to female reproductive organs have revealed that the SChG L1-L4 ganglia also contain nerve cells that project to the ovary, fallopian tube and uterus. Some clinical implications of the mammary gland innervation are also discussed.
Detection of potentially pathogenic Arcobacter spp. in Bangkok canals and the Chao Phraya River
Authors: Tomioka Noriko , Yoochatchaval Wilasinee , Takemura Yasuyuki , Matsuura Norihisa , Danshita Tsuyoshi , Srisang Pornpawee , Mungjomklang Noppamas , Syutsubo Kazuaki
Published: June 2021

The management of pathogenic bacteria in waterways is a public health issue. Here, we investigated the concentrations of potentially pathogenic bacteria, Arcobacter spp. and Campylobacter spp., and Escherichia coli, by quantifying species-specific genes in surface water samples from canals and the Chao Phraya River from June 2017 to June 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand. We assessed the relationship between the specific bacterial concentrations, water quality, and seasonal changes. Arcobacter spp. were detected at high density in all samples and showed seasonal fluctuations according to analyses based on 16S rDNA and the invasion gene ciaB. High levels of 16S rDNA and dut gene of E. coli were detected in the polluted drainage canals. A high correlation was observed between E. coli and chemical and biochemical oxygen demand (COD and BOD), suggesting that untreated domestic wastewater was the source of the E. coli. In contrast, Arcobacter spp. were detected with high density even in water samples with relatively low COD, suggesting that Arcobacter spp. are more likely than E. coli to survive in the water environment. The analysis of 16S rDNA and ciaB gene sequence analyses indicated that the Arcobacter spp. isolated from the drainage canals were A. butzleri and A. cryaerophilus.
Design and Development of a Solar Water Purification System with
Graphene-Plasmonic Based Hybrid Nanocomposites: A Review
Authors: Javed Hafiz Muhammad Asif , Sarfaraz Muhammad , Mahmood Asif , Nisar M. Zubair , Qureshi Akbar Ali , Khan Muhammad Azhar , Zhong Peng , Liao Yulong
Published: June 2021

Harvesting solar energy for water treatments has been considered a promising solution
for a global community. The shortage of water is a great challenge for scientists due to the increased
demand of the population–however, the low efficiency of absorber materials obstacles in
practical applications. In addition, state-of-the-art conventional technologies require optical concentrators
and multiple component-based systems, leading to lower efficiency and higher cost. In
this review, a low-cost, more reliable, less energy-intensive, and more eco-friendly solar water purification
system based on graphene-plasmonic hybrid nanocomposite has been demonstrated.
Graphene-plasmonic-based hybrid nanocomposite has been utilized to achieve pure water from
wastewater. Such hybrid nanocomposites have the ability to clean polluted water very efficiently
due to their excellent properties such as higher surface area, low concentration, and working ability.
Furthermore, the development of a solar water purification system has been achieved through
optimized hybrid nanocomposites.
COVID-19 Improved Diagnoses Based on the Open-morphology Filter and
Deep-learning
Authors: Malallah Fahad L. , Younus Majid D. , Zedan Mohammad J.M. , Saeed Mustafa G.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Coronavirus (COVID-19) has appeared first time in Wuhan, China, as an
acute respiratory syndrome and spread rapidly. It has been declared a pandemic by the WHO. Thus,
there is an urgent need to develop an accurate computer-aided method to assist clinicians in identifying
COVID-19-infected patients by computed tomography CT images. The contribution of this paper
is that it proposes a pre-processing technique that increases the recognition rate compared to the
techniques existing in the literature.

Methods:

The proposed pre-processing technique, which consists of both contrast enhancement and
open-morphology filter, is highly effective in decreasing the diagnosis error rate. After carrying out
pre-processing, CT images are fed to a 15-layer convolution neural network (CNN) as deep-learning
for the training and testing operations. The dataset used in this research has been publically published,
in which CT images were collected from hospitals in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This dataset is composed
of 2482 CT scans images, which include 1252 CT scans of SARS-CoV-2 infected patients
and 1230 CT scans of non-infected SARS-CoV-2 patients.

Results:

The proposed detection method achieves up to 97.8% accuracy, which outperforms the reported
accuracy of the dataset by 97.3%.

Conclusion:

The performance in terms of accuracy has been improved up to 0.5% by the proposed
methodology over the published dataset and its method.