bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Habitat loss predicts the functional extinction of fish from Amazonian streams during the Anthropocene
Authors: Colares Lucas , Montag Luciano , Dunck Bárbara
Published: January 2024

The evaluation of extinction risk has typically focused on species,
although a shift to a focus on ecosystem would appear to be an urgent
priority for conservation planning. Here, we investigated how fish
extinction modify the functioning of freshwater Amazonian ecosystems. We
sampled the fish and environmental conditions of 63 streams in the
eastern Amazon, and simulated extinction based on species vulnerability
to habitat loss. The simulated extinction of vulnerable species led to a
decrease in both the mean body size of the community and functional
rarity, and culminated in abrupt losses of ecosystem function after 5%
and 10% of extinction at local and regional scales. We provide robust
predictions on the modification of the ecosystem following the
extinction of fish species, which is a major step towards the
development of effective conservation measures that help to prevent the
loss of biodiversity and the potentially irreversible modifications of
ecosystem function.
Anxiolytic-like effects of the positive GABAB receptor modulator GS39783 corre-late with mice's individual basal anxiety and stress reactivity
Authors: Bicakci Ahmet , Sarkar Mousumi , Chang Yu-Hsin , Kahl Evylin , Ragazzi Lorenzo , Moldes-Anaya Angel , Fendt Markus
Published: January 2024

Positive GABAB receptor modulators such as GS39783 showed
anxiolytic-like ef-fects in several studies while others failed to find
such effects. These contradictory findings led us to hypothesize that
the anxiolytic-like effects of positive GABAB re-ceptor modulators are
dependent on basal anxiety levels of individual animals and/or on the
anxiogenic properties of the test paradigm. The present study ad-dresses
this hypothesis by testing the effects of intraperitoneally administered
GS39783 (10 and 30 mg/kg) on anxiety-like behavior of mice in the
light-dark box paradigm. Our findings show that GS39783 had no
anxiolytic-like effects on a whole group level. However, after grouping
the mice for their basal anxiety levels, GS39783 reduced anxiolytic-like
behavior in the animal group with most basal anx-iety. Furthermore,
individual GS39783 effects were correlated with individual basal anxiety
levels. In a further experiment, the anxiogenic properties of the
light-dark box test were increased. Again, GS39783 was not effective on
a whole group level. However, GS39783 had anxiolytic-like effects in the
most stress-responsive sub-group of mice. In addition, GS39783 effects
were correlated with individual stress responsiveness. Last, we also
demonstrate that GS39783 brain levels were in a range where GS39783
effects has been observed in vitro. Taken together, our study
demonstrates that GS39783 effects are dependent of individuals’ basal
anxiety and stress responsiveness. This suggests that anxiety tests
should be generally de-signed in a way that individual basal anxiety
levels and/or stress responsiveness, as well as individual compound
effects can be evaluated.
Effect of calcination temperature on structure and semi-hydrogenation activity of Cu/lamellar-SiO2 catalysts
Authors: Wang Zheng , Wu Mengmeng , Song Youwei , Zhao Jinxian , Ren Jun
Published: January 2024

A series of Cu/lamellar-SiO2 catalysts were obtained after reduction of
a copper phyllosilicate precursor, which were prepared using the
one-step sol–gel method followed by calcination under different
temperatures varying from 400 to 700 ℃. Various characterization
techniques were employed to reveal the structural properties and
catalytic performance of Cu/lamellar-SiO2 catalysts. When the
calcination temperature was 500 ℃, the conversion of dimethyl oxalate
(DMO) was 98.5% and the selective for methyl glycolate (MG) was 52.1%.
In addition, Cu/lamellar-SiO2 catalyst exhibited excellent stability
during DMO hydrogenation under a pressure of 2 MPa, reaction temperature
of 473 K and H2/DMO of 100. The characterization results indicated that
the lamellar structure maintained in the catalyst can improve the
dispersion of Cu species, and is beneficial to provide stable Cu+,
thereby enhancing the selectivity of the preliminary hydrogenation
product, MG.
Translation and psychometrics of Persian version of Good Nursing Care Scale in Iran
Authors: Esmalizadeh Ahmad , heidarzadeh mehdi , Karimollahi Mansoureh
Published: January 2024

Background and Aim: Identifying and evaluating the strengths and
weaknesses of nursing care provided to improve the quality of nursing
care is increasingly emphasized and achieving it requires the use of
valid tools in this field. This study aimed to translate and determine
the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Good Nursing
Care Scale. Methods: The present study is a methodological study in
which the psychometric dimensions of Good nursing care from the
perspective of patients with the participation of 200 patients admitted
to the hospitals of Ardabil University of Medical Sciences were studied.
After translating the original version of the scale, its validity and
reliability were evaluated and data analysis was performed using SPSS
version 16 and AMOS software version 24. Results: The effect score of
the item in the evaluation of face validity for each item was above 2.4.
The content validity ratio for the scale was 0.88 and the content
validity index tool was 0.86 respectively. The correlation of total
instrument scores with the standard instrument was 0.839. According to
the results of factor analysis, the values of factor loading of items
were between 0.62 and 0.91, which were all significant. Therefore, the
seven dimensions introduced in the main tool were approved. In addition,
Cronbach’s alpha results of 0.865 and correlation of 0.894 in
test-retest showed that the questionnaire has internal consistency and
acceptable stability. Conclusion: The Persian version of the Good
Nursing Care Scale has acceptable psychometric properties in the Iranian
population and can be used as a valid tool in the areas of quality
assessment of nursing care, education and nursing research.
Acetaminophen poisoning - a case report
Authors: Jellinge Marlene , Jepsen Marianne
Published: January 2024

Acetaminophen is a widely used analgesic agent, but at the same time,
overdosing with acetaminophen is one of the leading causes of hospital
admission. The administration of the specific antidote,
N-acetylcysteine, should be initiated but renal replacement therapy,
therapeutic plasmapheresis or even liver transplantation may be
necessary. We present a case of severe metabolic lactic acidosis and
coma after massive intake of acetaminophen. The patient was treated with
N¬-acetylcysteine at a higher dose and received hemodialysis. He
presented with severe liver failure, and despite optimal treatment,
except liver transplantation, he died 70 hours after hospitalization. We
describe the treatment of massive acetaminophen overdose and discuss the
literature about the need for higher doses of N-acetylcysteine in these
situations and the need for increasing doses, when co-administering
hemodialysis. Other treatment strategies are mentioned.
Cytogenetic studies in the Andropogon gayanus-Andropogon tectorum Complex in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Ojo Funmilola Mabel , Nwokeocha Chinyere Constance , Faluyi Julius Olaoye
Published: January 2024

Abstract: The genetic studies were carried on accessions of the
Andropogon gayanus-Andropogon tectorum complex (Poaceae) in southwestern
Nigeria to determine the chromosome numbers and meiotic dynamics in the
species. This involves meiotic chromosome and pollen studies using
standard procedures. Studies on the morphology and meiotic behaviour of
collections of A. gayanus (2n = 40) and A. tectorum (2n = 20, 40) have
been made. The cytogenetic studies show that the chromosome
configuration of A. gayanus is a tetraploid (2n = 40) on a basic
chromosome number of 10. A. tectorum occurs as a regular diploid on a
chromosome number of 2n = 20 and it is the only species found in Ekiti
State. Kiwani was found to be a tetraploid A. tectorum with a chromosome
number of 2n = 40. This study has also established the stability of the
genome of the Andropogon complex. In spite of the occurrence of
univalent and multiple associations, meiosis ensures a high percentage
of pollen grains. The pollens of Kiwani (> 35 µm) were
generally larger than those of other accessions while the other
accessions of both A. gayanus and A. tectorum have modal pollen sizes
less than 35 µm, although the A. tectorum accessions were generally
smaller. The study concluded that the occurrence of the tetraploid (2n =
40 in AT10, Kiwani can be attributed to apomixis occurring in a lonely
plant.
Outcomes of Catheter Ablation of Ventricular Tachycardia in Non-Ischaemic Cardiomyopathy A Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ammar Ahmed , Sharief Mohamed , Abouelmagd Khaled , Riad Omar , Ibrahim Mokhtar
Published: January 2024

Background: Catheter Ablation (CA) of Ventricular Tachycardia
(VT) in patients with Non-Ischaemic Cardiomyopathy (NICM) is a
well-known line of treatment to prevent recurrence of VT and ICD
shocks.  Objective: To perform a systematic review and
meta-analysis of available trials regarding the outcomes of VT ablation
in patients with NICM. Methods: A comprehensive database search
of large four electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus,
and Institute for Scientific Information network meta-analysis,
identified ten studies enrolling 16370 patients for patients with NICM
underwent CA for VT. The short-term outcomes assessed included
procedural success, VT non-inducibility and procedural complications,
whereas the long-term outcomes assessed included VT recurrence, repeat
ablation procedures, heart transplantation, and death. 
Results: A total of 10 observational studies reported outcomes
in 16370 patients with NICM undergoing VT catheter ablation. Idiopathic
dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM) was the most frequently reported etiology
of NICM (60.2%) and the duration of follow up ranged from 12 to 49
months. The complete procedural success was moderately high; 57.3%
(95% CI 0.493-0.652) with VT non-inducibility observed in 63.5% of the
patients (95% CI 0.434-0.836), major complications up to 6% (95% CI
0.055-0.079) and in-hospital death up to 1.5% (95% CI (0.003-0.027).
The long-term outcomes showed an estimate of 44.5% for VT recurrence
(95% CI 0.331-0.558), 18.2% for death (95% CI 0.123-0.559) and 7%
for heart transplantation (95% CI 0.030-0.110). Conclusion:
The meta-analysis showed that VT catheter ablation in NICM is safe and
effective approach for management of patients with NICM and VT with wide
discrepancy in the reported short and long-term outcomes after VT
ablation likely because of the heterogeneous VT substrates in each
etiology and the different VT ablation strategies.
Glanzmann Thrombasthenia due to ITGA2B mutation: report of a China family
Authors: Su Huina , Xin Yang
Published: January 2024

Objective: We describe physical and histological features, and the
molecular impact of mutation ITGA2B in a non-consanguineous China
family. In addition, we explore the fertility feasibility, pre-pregnancy
guidance of GT patients ,and how to avoid live births with GT. Methods:
We report two female patients, daughters of non-consanguineous parents.
The platelet aggregation rate showed a low pattern. TRIO whole exome
sequencing was requested. Results The patients received the LNG-IUS as
treatment for HMB. The study identified two genetic variants on
chr17:42457372 and chr17:42457057.
Silicon mediates polyamine-induced inhibition of ethylene synthesis and regulates the expression of PpERF21 and PpERF27 to inhibit gummosis in peach
Authors: gao huaifeng , Wu Xuelian , Yang Xiaoqing , Du Anqi , Liang Jiahui , Yu Wenying , Sun Maoxiang , Peng Futian , Xiao Yuansong
Published: January 2024

Gummosis in peach is an invasive disease that causes widespread and
serious damage. Mechanical damage and ethylene (ETH) can induce gummosis
in peach shoots in the field. In this study, we found that silicon can
induce the synthesis of polyamines (PAs) and reduce the synthesis of
ETH, thereby inhibiting gummosis in peach. The results showed that
silicon (Si) can decrease the rate of gummosis, reduce the expression
level of PpACS1 and reduce the enzyme activity of
polygalacturonase (PG). Simultaneously, the expression level of
PpSAMDC and the PAs content were increased and the ETH synthesis
rate was decreased. Si inhibits the synthesis of ETH by promoting PAs
synthesis. It was further discovered that Si can regulate the gene
expression of PpERF21 and PpERF27. Yeast one-hybrid and
dual-luciferase reporter assays showed that PpERF21 and
PpERF27, through direct interaction with the promoter of
PpPG1, inhibited the transcriptional activation of PpPG1.
Overexpression of PpERF21 and PpERF27 effectively reduced
fruit colloid production when bacterial cells harbouring the expression
vector were used to instantaneously infect peach fruit. These results
show that Si can inhibit the synthesis of ETH by promoting PAs
synthesis, mediating PpERF21 and PpERF27 expression to
inhibit the expression of PpPG1, thereby inhibiting gummosis in
peach.
Effects of xylem conductivity loss on Scots pine and Norway spruce performance during drought and postdrought recovery
Authors: Zlobin Ilya , Kartashov Alexander , Ivanov Yury , Ivanova Alexandra I. , Kuznetsov Vladimir V.
Published: January 2024

The tight connection between deterioration of xylem functioning and
plant mortality under drought is well recognized. However, a lack of
mechanistic understanding of how substantial conductivity loss
influences plant performance under drought and postdrought recovery
hinders our ability to model tree responses to drought stress. We
artificially modelled 50% conductivity loss in Scots pine and Norway
spruce saplings by stem notching and investigated plant performance
under drought and postdrought recovery. Plant mortality, xylem hydraulic
conductivity, leaf water status and stomatal conductance to gas exchange
were measured. We observed no preferential mortality of top plant parts
(above the notching) compared to basal plant parts (below the notching),
and in dying plants, no consistent trend in hydraulic conductivity loss
could be observed between top and basal parts. Stem hydraulic
conductance, needle water status and stomatal conductance changed in a
similar manner between the top and basal parts, both during drought and
postdrought recovery, thus indicating the substantial hydraulic
overcapacity of the stems. The recovery of stomatal conductance
demonstrated prominent hysteresis due to nonhydraulic stomatal
limitations. The results obtained are of substantial importance in
modelling the influence of plant hydraulic impairment on plant
performance under drought and postdrought recovery.
Primary alveolar soft-part sarcoma of the lung in children: a case report and literature review
Authors: Xu Zhufei , Wang Jinhu , Mao Junqing , Xu Dan , Wu Lei , Zhou Yunlian , Li Xuejing , Chen Zhimin , Wang Yingshuo
Published: January 2024

The Alveolar soft-part sarcoma (ASPS) involving the lung is mostly
metastatic, while the primary ASPS involving the lung occurs more
rarely. Herein, we reported on another case of primary ASPS, which might
be with the earliest onset reported thus far. In this report, surgery
was used to excise the lesion as much as possible, and its combination
with chemoradiotherapy and anti-angiogenic agent may provide an
important reference for the development of standard treatment or
first-line treatment for these children patients. This case may provide
an important reference for the development of standard treatment or
first-line treatment for these children patients.
Prospective controlled study of nasal septum deviation impact on nasal obstruction
Authors: Balsevicius Tomas , Padervinskis Evaldas , Bajorinas Darius , Vaitkus Saulius , Pribuisiene Ruta , Jakstas Tomas
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To assess the relation between the type of nasal septum
deviation and the degree of subjective complaint of nasal obstruction.
Methods: One hundred healthy controls and one hundred-fourteen
septoplasty patients were investigated for nasal obstruction using
endoscopic examination and Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE)
scale. Septal deviations were classified as septal spur, C or S shape
deformity at coronal or axial plane and combined deformity. The degree
of septal deviation was assessed, whether the septal deviation was in
contact with lateral nasal wall or not. Results: Septoplasty patients
showed to have higher NOSE scores when compared to the controls.
According to multiple comparison test results, patients with septal spur
had significantly lower NOSE scores compared with patients with
different type of septal deformity (septal spur 45.00(SD=15.80) vs. C
type deformity 60.95(SD=15.25), S type deformity 63.40(SD=14.95),
combined deformity 76.25(SD=8.55), p˂0.05). There was no significant
difference in NOSE score according to septal deviation degree, whether
the septal deviation contacts with the lateral nasal wall or not. After
septoplasty the mean intervention groups’ NOSE score improved from
61.30(SD=17.20) points to 17.00(SD=15.45) points (p<0.01).
Conclusions: Septal deviation, regardless of the anatomical location or
shape of deviation results in impaired nasal breathing when measured by
NOSE scale and compared to population average. Septal spur deformity
causes significantly lower NOSE scores when compared with C or S type
deformity, or combined deformity, indicating that patients with septal
spur express milder symptoms of nasal obstruction. After septoplasty
patients’ breathing improves significantly despite the type and location
of septal deformity.
Spondyloenchondrodysplasia with immune dysregulation: Report of a novel ACP-5 gene missense mutation and use of sirolimus.
Authors: Mathiyazhagan Gopinathan , Hasan Faheema , Chauhan Priyanka , Gupta Anshul , Yadav Sanjeev , Kashyap Rajesh
Published: January 2024

Spondyloenchondrodysplasia with immune dysregulation(SPENCDI) is a rare
genetic disorder resulting from suboptimal Tartrate Resistant Acid
Phosphatase (TRAP) activity which key regulates functioning of immune
effector cells and osteoclasts. This leads to autoimmune cytopenias
along with skeletal system and neurological manifestations. Refractory
autoimmune haemolysis is frequently encountered and manifest at a
younger age demanding attention of a paediatric haematologist. Here we
report the typical evolution of multi-systemic symptoms in a 7 year old
child and difficult to manage haemolysis with use of sirolimus for
attaining clinical remission.
Gestational diabetes is associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy: A case-control study
Authors: Radan Anda-Petronela , Fluri Mihaela-Madalina , Nirgianakis Konstantinos , Mosimann Beatrice , Schlatter Bettina , Raio Luigi , Surbek Daniel
Published: January 2024

Objective: to investigate a possible bi-directional association between
gestational diabetes (GDM) and the SARS-CoV-2 infection during
pregnancy. Design: case-control study with prospective data collection
for the case group and 1:2 matching with historical controls Setting:
University Hospital of Bern, Switzerland Population: 224 pregnant women:
75 cases with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy, matched 1:2 with
controls based on parity, BMI and ethnicity. Methods: SARS-CoV-2
infection was diagnosed by RT-PCR. Screening for GDM was performed by
75mg oral glucose tolerance test at 26 weeks’ gestation in all women.
Main Outcomes: Prevalence of GDM was calculated in both groups.
Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was performed to assess
risk factors for GDM and inpatient COVID-19 management. Results: 34.6%
of the patients in the case group suffered from GDM, vs. 16.1% in the
control group (p=0.002). 35.7% patients were diagnosed with GDM after
the SARS-CoV-2 infection, vs. 33.3% diagnosed before infection
(OR(95%CI) 1.11(0.40-3.08), p=0.84), with no correlation between the
time-point of infection and GDM diagnosis. SARS-CoV-2 (OR(95%CI) 2.79
(1.42, 5.47), p=0.003) and BMI (OR(95%CI) 1.12 (1.05, 1.19), p=0.001)
were significant independent risk factors for GDM. Conclusions: The
significantly higher rate of GDM among women with SARS-CoV-2 infection
during pregnancy, as compared to matching controls, suggests that GDM
increases the risk of infection. On the other hand, SARS-CoV-2 during
pregnancy might increase the risk of developing GDM. Vaccination and
caution in using protective measures should be recommended to pregnant
women, particularly those with co-morbidities. Funding: none Keywords:
SARS-CoV-2, gestational diabetes, COVID-19
Detecting Plant Health via Electrical Stress Response
Authors: Cross Marcella , Bauerle Taryn
Published: January 2024

Plants produce electrical signals which have traditionally been measured
in voltage, but which have an unknown relation to plant health due to
the unreliability of the voltage measurement. Using measurements of
amperage, rather than voltage, we measured the electrical stress
signatures produced by Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) trees in
response to mechanical wounding. The electrical signature, which
consists of a baseline signal, a spike initiated by wounding, and a
subsequent signal recovery period, was measured along with controls for
temperature, season, time-of-day, and soil type. We then compared the
electrical stress signatures between healthy and unhealthy trees. We
show that healthy trees have a characteristic electrical stress
signature which is different from the electrical stress signature in
unhealthy trees. Our results suggest that electrical stress signatures
in amperage can be measured to reliably diagnose tree health providing a
promising method for monitoring and early detection of changes in forest
health.
A mechanism-assisted data-driven model to improve the efficiency of sophorolipids by Candida bombicola
Authors: Chen Yang , Tian Xiwei , Zhu Xiaofeng , Tang Xu , Zhuang Ying-Ping , Zhang Song , Hu Shiyuan , Chu Ju
Published: January 2024

In this study, we developed a mechanism-assisted data-driven model to
regulate substrate feedback to improve the production efficiency of
sophorolipids (SLs). First, we used a variety of on-line biosensors to
establish a multi-scale parameter detection system. We found that the
production of SLs by fed-batch fermentation could be divided into three
stages: a stage that was limited by cell production capacity, a stage
that was inhibited by high product concentration, and a stage that was
limited by oxygen supply. Subsequently, we used process parameters to
develop a data-driven model, and this was then combined with the
analysis of cell metabolic mechanisms. The optimal production of SLs was
achieved in the first and second stages by the precise feedback
regulation of substrate feeding, which increased the titer of SLs by
4.9%. The control error of the substrate was reduced from more than
15% to less than 5%. The mechanism-assisted data-driven model was then
applied for semi-continuous fermentation during the production of SLs.
This effectively alleviated the oxygen limitation during the third
stage, and further increased the productivity of SLs to 2.30 g/L/h,
40.2% higher than the fed-batch fermentation method.
High-throughput sequencing to explore the extrachromosomal plasmid rDNA of Naegleria fowleri AY27 genotype II: A human brain-eating Amoeba
Authors: Hassan Syed Shah , Aurongzeb Muhammad , Jahanzaib Muhammad , Malik Hafiz Muhammad Talha , Basharat Zarrin , Karim Asad , Rashid Yasmeen
Published: January 2024

Naegleria fowleri is the only known Naegleria spp. that
cause acute, fulminant, and rapidly fatal infection in the central
nervous system of humans called primary amebic meningoencephalitis
(PAM). We report a 28 years-old suspected PAM patient hospitalized in
Karachi, Pakistan, with no earlier memoire of recreational activities
but daily ritual ablution. Wet film observation of CSF showed amoebic
trophozoites and confirmation of N. fowleri was done using
Internal Transcribed Spacers detection method ((ITS-PCR). Clinical
isolate of  N. fowleri from patient CSF was sequenced for
circular extrachromosomal ribosomal DNA (CERE - rDNA). The CERE contains
18S, 5.8S and 28S ribosomal subunits separated by internal transcribed
spacers, 5 open reading frames (ORF’s), and mostly repeat elements
comprising 7268bp out of 15786bp (46%). A wide variety of variations
and recombination events were observed. Finally, the ORF’s that
comprised of only 4 hypothetical proteins were modelled and screened
against Zinc drug-like compounds. Two compounds [ZINC77564275 (ethyl
2-(((4-isopropyl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)methyl)(methyl)amino)oxazole-4-carboxylate)
and ZINC15022129
(5-(2-methoxyphenoxy)-[2,2’-bipyrimidine]-4,6(1H,5H)-dione)] were
finalized as potential druggable compounds based on ADME toxicity
analysis. We propose that the compounds showing least toxicity would be
potential drug candidates after laboratory experimental validation is
performed.
Eating eggplants as a cucurbit feeder: diet shifts promote complex gut microbiome responses in the melon fly Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Diptera, Tephritidae)
Authors: Hendrycks Wouter , Delatte Helene , Moquet Laura , Bourtzis Kostas , Mullens Nele , Meyer Marc De , Backeljau Thierry , Virgilio Massimiliano
Published: January 2024

While contemporary changes in feeding preferences have been documented
in phytophagous insects, the mechanisms behind these processes remain to
be fully clarified. In this context, the insect gut microbiome plays a
central role in adaptation to novel host plants. The cucurbit
frugivorous fruit fly Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Diptera,
Tephritidae) has occasionally been reported on “unconventional” host
plants from different families, including Solanaceae. In this study, we
focus on wild parental (F) and semi-wild first filial
(F) samples of Z. cucurbitae from multiple sites
in La Réunion and explore how the gut microbiome composition changes
when this fly is feeding on a non-cucurbit host (Solanum
melongena). Our analyses show non-obvious microbiome responses
following F0-F1 host shift and the importance of local effects which
heavily affected the diversity and composition of microbiomes. We
identified the main bacterial genera responsible for differences between
treatments and provided a first overview of the metabolic pathways in
which they are involved. These data further stress the importance of a
careful approach when drawing general inferences based on laboratory
populations or from non-adequately replicated field samples.
Abnormal uterine bleeding during the COVID-19 pandemic: a national survey
Authors: Issakov Gal , Tzur Yossi , Friedman Talia , Tzur Tamar
Published: January 2024

Objective To evaluate and characterize menstrual changes among COVID-19
vaccinated and infected women. Design A national survey. Setting An
online nationwide questionnaire survey, querying about menstrual changes
after COVID-19 vaccination or infection. Population Reproductive-age
non-pregnant women. Methods The questionnaire was distributed via an
online link through social media and directed the participants to an
online anonymous Google questionnaire. Results In total, 10,319 women
responded, of which 7,904 met the inclusion criteria. Changes in
menstrual patterns following the BNT162b2 vaccine were reported by 3,689
(46.7%). Of these, 2,974 women, (80.6%) described excessive bleeding
(heavy, prolonged, or intermenstrual) compared with 715 (19.4%) who
reported scant bleeding (light, short, or prolonged intervals). Among
women who experienced abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), in most cases
(61.1%) it occurred between the vaccination and the ensuing menstrual
period. Menstrual disturbances were more common among accurately
vaccinated women compared with inaccurately vaccinated by having
received a single shot or having undergone a prolonged interval between
shots (51% vs 36.6%, P < .001). Menstrual disturbances were
similar in type and distribution among the vaccinated and infected
women. Conclusions AUB emerged as a side effect of the BNT162b2 vaccine
and a symptom of the COVID-19 infection. It was characterized mainly by
excessive bleeding. Although the precise incidence could not be
determined in this study, the type of bleeding disturbance, as well as
the characterization of women at risk, were well defined. The incidence
and the long-term consequences of the BNT162b2 vaccine on uterine
bleeding warrant further investigation.
LONG-TERM SCAR SATISFACTION OF THYROIDECTOMY PATIENTS WITH CLASSICAL MID-CERVICAL INCISION
Authors: Çekiç Erdinç , Barcan Yagmur , Gurbuz Gokhan , Acikalin Resit Murat
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT Objective:Thyroidectomy is commonly performed surgical
procedure for benign or malignant thyroid pathologies. Patients
generally mention about their reservations about the shape of skin
incision. In order to minimize the scar deformity novel surgical
procedures were described in the literature. We aimed to investigate the
relationship between the scar length, type of surgery, obesity and
patient satisfaction and scar appearance. Design: A total of seventy
seven (77) patients were included in the study. Patient and Observer
Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) was used for measuring the satisfaction.
Results: The mean overall satisfaction score was 1,6 (1: normal 10:
worst) and the vast majority of the patients (74/77, 96.1%) were
satisfied with their surgical scars. Significantly higher OSAS scores
were observed in patients who have secondary (completion of
contralateral lobectomy) surgery and radioactive iodine treatment
(p<0,001 p=0,034 respectively). There was not significantly
different OSAS scores in patients according to sex, body mass index
(BMI) and incision length. Conclusion: The classical mid-cervical
incision has positive long-term satisfactory results. Patients required
early secondary (completion) thyroidectomy should be informed about the
possible unsatisfactory results and surgeon should pay more attention
and act as careful as possible for skin closure
Clinical Characteristics and Clusters Analysis of 1009 COVID-19 Patients in Taiwan: A Registry Study
Authors: Hung I-Chun , Truong Le Van , Najim Mustafa , Nguyen Khoi Quan , Panta Ashirbad , Norman Sarah , Nguyen Tuan-Phat , Yu Szu-Yung , Huy Nguyen Tien
Published: January 2024

Rationale, aims and objectives: The purpose of this study is to describe
the symptoms and clusters characteristics of COVID-19 patients in
Taiwan. Method: The Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) from Taiwan
CDC daily press release publications were extracted for patient
demographic information (age, gender, case type and cluster) and the
symptoms exhibited by the patients before diagnosis were collected.
Results: A total of 1030 COVID-19 cases were reported in Taiwan up until
the end of March 2021, of which 1009 patients had symptoms available. Of
available patient data, 633 patients (62.74%) were symptomatic and 376
patients (37.26%) were asymptomatic, as classified in our study based
on the published list of potential symptoms of COVID-19 by WHO. The most
prevalent symptoms of our patients were coughing (29.33%), fever
(26.56%) and nasal symptoms (20.22%). Our regression analysis found
when the first detected patient of the cluster had a subjective
sensation of feeling feverish, the number of infected cases in the
cluster increased by 4.59 cases. Similarly, patients who experienced a
slightly elevated body temperature or fever were associated with an
increase of 2.37 and 0.35 cases in each cluster, respectively.
Furthermore, increasing one new COVID-19 test per thousand population
reduces 7.22 cases per cluster. Conclusions: The majority of reported
cases in Taiwan were symptomatic. Symptoms which had the greatest number
of patients overall were cough, fever, and nasal symptoms. It is our
hope to help physicians to better diagnose current Taiwan COVID-19
patients, while aiding the government in stopping the spread of new
cases.
A Comparative Study of the faecal microbiota of grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) pups and yearlings - a marine mammal sentinel species
Authors: Watkins Craig , Gaines Taylor , Strathdee Fiona , Bailey Johanna , Watson Eleanor , Hall Ailsa , Free Andrew , Dagleish Mark
Published: January 2024

Grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) can act as sentinel species reflecting
the condition of the environment they inhabit. Our previous research
identified strains of pathogenic Campylobacter and Salmonella,
originating from both human and agricultural animal hosts, on rectal
swabs from live grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) pups and yearlings on the
Isle of May, Scotland, UK. We examined rectal swabs from the same pup
(n=90) and yearling (n=19) grey seals to gain further understanding into
the effects of age-related changes (pup versus yearling) and three
different natal terrestrial habitats on seal pup faecal microbiota. DNA
was extracted from a subset of rectal swabs (pups n=23, yearlings n=9)
using an optimised procedure, and the V4 region of 16S rDNA sequenced to
identify each individual’s microbiota. Diversity in pup samples was
lower (3.92 ± 0.19) than yearlings (4.66 ± 0.39) although not
significant at the p=0.05 level (p = 0.062), but differences in
composition of the microbiota were (p < 0.001). Similarly,
differences between the composition of the microbiota from pups from
three different terrestrial habitats (PH, RR and TS) was highly
significant (p < 0.001). Pairwise tests showed significant
differences between all three habitats: PH vs TS (p = 0.019), PH vs RR
(p = 0.042) and TS vs RR (p = 0.020). This preliminary study suggests a
general trend, that seal microbiomes are modified by both age and, in
pups, different terrestrial habitats. Furthermore, knowledge of the
microbiota species present has the potential to be used in determining
the environmental quality index.
Landscape structure and species life history effects on abundance-occupancy relationships
Authors: Dallas Tad , Caten Cleber Ten , Holian Lauren
Published: January 2024

More widespread species tend to be more locally abundant, both for the
population dynamics of a single species across a network of habitat
patches (intraspecific) and for many species sampled at a single point
in time (interspecific). These abundance-occupancy relationships are
fairly well-supported in observational studies, but the underlying
factors driving them are less clear. For instance, variation in
demographic rates, dispersal, and spatial habitat network structure
could all influence resulting abundance-occupancy relationships. We
propose a simple simulation model to explore intraspecific and
interspecific relationships. We create spatial habitat networks of
variable size and dispersal connectivity, and simulate population
dynamics across spatial networks by starting from entirely neutral
communities, then systematically incorporating complexity in the form of
(co)variation in species demographic rates and dispersal processes. We
find that intraspecific abundance-occupancy relationships are quite weak
and unaffected by the incorporation of demographic or dispersal rate
variation or network structure. However, interspecific
abundance-occupancy relationships were quite strong and sensitive to the
spatial network structure and (co)variation in demographic and dispersal
rates. This identifies a clear difference between the two forms of the
relationship, as intraspecific abundance-occupancy relationships rely on
temporal variation in environmental conditions independent of species
trait variation, while interspecific abundance-occupancy relationships
require species trait differences. Together, we provide a clear,
spatially-explicit framework to explore the potential drivers of
abundance-occupancy relationships, with potential extensions to many
other macroecological relationships.
Sterylitic Solution Enhancement for Stain Removal
Authors: Ubani Solomon
Published: January 2024

The aim of this research was to compare different sterylitic solution
stain removal performances. This used metrics such as depth sterylitic,
after effects, further wiping of surfaces. The results showed sterylitic
solution with oxidizing agent left residue compared to deoxidizing
solution. It can be concluded the latter had a more improved sterylitic
performance and stain removal.
Cryoballoon Breach During Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Choudhury Moinuddin , Fox David
Published: January 2024

Pulmonary vein isolation using cryoablation technology is routinely
performed for rhythm control of atrial fibrillation. Cryoballoon
breaches are rare with only 5 double-wall breaches known worldwide.
Balloons are designed with a double-layer and a vacuum is maintained
between them which is constantly monitored for compromise by the control
console. In this report we describe our experience of a single-wall
breach, what it enabled us to learn and consider in terms of patient
safety during and after an event like this.
Evaluation of the Trachea in Fetuses with Double Aortic Arch Using Prenatal Ultrasound: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yin Xia , Liu Yan , Wu LiHong , Zheng Qiao , Peng Ruan , Xie HongNing
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To evaluate the tracheal compression caused by the vascular
ring in fetuses with double aortic arch (DAA) using prenatal ultrasound
and to analyze the relationship between tracheal compression and
postnatal clinical symptoms. Design: Retrospective cohort study.
Setting: Two fetal medical centre in China. Population: 26 fetuses with
DAA diagnosed with prenatal ultrasound and 334 singleton pregnancies
with normal fetuses. Methods: The tracheal compression—evaluated by
comparing the tracheal internal diameter Z-scores against the GA—was
assessed in the fetuses with DAA and in normal fetuses. The live-born
infants with DAA were divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic groups
for the comparative analysis of Z-scores. Results: 26 fetuses with DAA
were diagnosed and 14 (53.8%) fetuses with DAA were delivered alive.
Among the 14 live-born infants, 7 (50.0%) were symptomatic while 7
(50.0%) were asymptomatic. The tracheal internal diameter Z-scores were
significantly lower in the DAA group than in the normal groups (-0.6
[-1.0, -0.1] vs. 0.0 [-0.3, 0.3], P<0.001). Compared
to the asymptomatic group, the tracheal internal diameter Z-scores were
significantly lower in the symptomatic group (-1.5 [-1.8, -1.1] vs.
-0.6 [-0.9, -0.1], P=0.018). Conclusions: The clinical symptoms in
the infants with DAA were associated with prenatal tracheal compression,
which can be prenatally evaluated using ultrasound. If fetuses are
diagnosed with DAA, prenatal surveillance of the tracheal internal
diameters and comparison with Z-score reference ranges could provide
pertinent information that would aid perinatal clinical management.
Resveratrol alleviated 5-FU-induced cardiotoxicity by attenuating GPX4 dependent ferroptosis
Authors: zhao xiaoyan , li dongning , song chengzhu , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The clinical use of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a potent antitumor
agent, was limited by severe cardiotoxic effects. The present study was
aimed to investigate the protective effects of resveratrol (Res) on
5-FU-induced cardiotoxicity and to explore its potential mechanisms.
Methods: The cardiotoxicity model was intraperitoneal injection of 5-FU
at the dose of 30 mg/kg for 7 consecutive days. Plasma enzymes
activities, cardiac tissues were assessed after treatment with Res for 3
weeks. Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) was used as ferroptosis inhibitor. In H9c2
cardiomyocyte cells, cell viability, generation of reactive oxygen
species (ROS), mitochondrial activity and cellular Fe2+ levels were
measured. Western-blot assay was performed to evaluate the protein level
of ferroptosis in vitro and in vivo. Results: In the mouse model, Res
reduced 5-FU-induced cardiomyocyte injury (ferroptosis, myofibrillar
loss and vacuolization). In addition, increased serum creatine kinase
(CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), malonaldehyde (MDA) and Fe2+ activity
and decreased activities of glutathione (GSH) were observed in 5-FU
group. These changes were prevented by treatment with Res. In H9c2
cardiomyocyte cells, Res increased the cell viability and attenuated
cell ferroptosis as measured by DCFH-DA, TMRE, Calcein AM staining. In
addition, 5-FU induced a reduction in GPX4, FTH1, Nrf2 and NQO1 and
activation of TfR and P53 compared with the control group. However, Res
treatment effectively inhibited these changes in ferroptosis associated
proteins in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions: Res possessed the
cardioprotective potential against 5-FU induced cardiotoxicity.
Moreover, Res attenuates 5-FU-induced cardiotoxicity via inhibiting GPX4
dependent ferroptosis.
A correlation between the perineural invasion and the cervical nodal metastasis in patients with laryngeal carcinoma
Authors: Hamela Mo'men , Bestawy Ahmed , Gharib Fadi
Published: January 2024

Aim of the work: to determine whether there is a correlation between the
perineural invasion (PNI) and the cervical nodal metastasis of laryngeal
squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Material and methods: This study was
conducted on 30 patients who have laryngeal SCC in the period from
December 2019 till September 2020. Surgical resection was performed
followed by histopathological examination to detect the presence of PNI,
which was then correlated to the cervical nodal metastasis. Results:
26.7% (8/30) of our patients had PNI. There was a statistical
significance between PNI and the cervical nodal metastasis (P value =
0.018). Conclusion: PNI is a strong histologic predictor of cervical
nodal metastasis. Keywords: Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma;
Perineural invasion; nodal metastasis. Key points • Most of the head and
neck cancer patients are pathologically diagnosed squamous cell
carcinoma. • Tumor recurrence causes the vast majority of the
mortalities. • perineural invasion is one of the major factors for
tumour recurrence. • perineural invasion may occur centripetally or as
skip lesions. • perineural invasion is a well-known route of tumor
spread in diverse human malignancies.
Thioredoxin-1: A promising target for the treatment of allergic diseases
Authors: Wang Jinquan , Zhou Jiedong , Wang Cuixue , Fukunaga Atsushi , Li Shujing , Yodoi Junji , Tian Hai
Published: January 2024

Thioredoxin-1 (Trx1) is an important regulator of cellular redox
homeostasis with redox-active dithiol; it is induced in response to
various stress conditions (e.g. oxidative damage,
infection/inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, irradiation and chemical
exposure). In multiple studies, Trx1 has shown excellent
anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects when used to treat animal
models of various human inflammatory disorders. This review focusses on
the protective roles and effect mechanisms of Trx1 in relation to
allergic diseases such as allergic asthma, contact dermatitis, food
allergies, allergic rhinitis and drug allergies. Trx1 plays important
roles in allergic diseases through processes such as anti-oxidation,
inhibition of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), regulation
of Th1/Th2 immune balance, modulation of allergic inflammatory cells and
suppression of complement activation. The regulatory actions of Trx1
differ from glucocorticoid-based mechanisms, which regulate inflammatory
reactions in association with suppression of immune responses.
Furthermore, Trx1 exerts a beneficial effect on the glucocorticoid
resistance of allergic inflammation by inhibiting the production and
internalisation of MIF. According to the research discussed here, we
suggest that Trx1 has the potential for future success in translational
research.
First-trimester screening for preeclampsia and small-for-gestational-age: A comparison of the Gaussian and FMF algorithms
Authors: Serrano Berta , Bonacina Erika , Rodo Carlota , Garcia-Manau Pablo , Sánchez-Durán María Ángeles , Pancorbo María , Forcada Cristina , Murcia María Teresa , Perestelo Ana , Armengol Mireia , Mendoza Manel , Carreras Elena
Published: January 2024

Objective: To compare the predictive accuracy of the Gaussian and FMF
algorithms for preeclampsia (PE) and small for gestational age fetuses
(SGA). Design: Secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study.
Setting: Tertiary referral hospital. Population: 2641 singleton
pregnancies attending routine first-trimester scan from October 2015 to
September 2017. Methods: Maternal characteristics, mean arterial blood
pressure (MAP), and mean uterine artery pulsatility index (UtAPI) were
recorded at the first-trimester scan. Serum placental growth factor
(PlGF) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) were assessed
between 8+0 and 13+6 weeks of gestation. Main outcome measures: The
areas under the curve (AUC) for the predictive performance for
early-onset (delivery <34 weeks) and preterm (delivery
<37 weeks) PE, and early-onset (delivery <32 weeks)
and preterm (delivery <37 weeks) SGA, were calculated with the
Gaussian and FMF algorithms, and were subsequently compared. Results:
Among the 2641 participants, 30 (1.14%) developed preterm PE, including
11 (0.42%) early-onset PE. Among the 2483 newborns, 44 (1.77%) were
preterm SGA, including eight (0.32%) early-onset SGA. The FMF and the
Gaussian algorithm showed a similar predictive performance for most
outcomes and marker combinations. Conclusions: This study shows that the
first-trimester Gaussian and FMF algorithms have similar performances
for PE and SGA prediction. Accuracy of the FMF algorithm was similar to
that reported in the original studies, adding evidence to its external
validity. Funding: none Keywords: preeclampsia, screening, PlGF,
early-onset preeclampsia, uterine artery Doppler, first trimester
Tweetable abstract: The first-trimester Gaussian and FMF algorithms have
similar predictive performances for preeclampsia and
small-for-gestational-age fetuses.
Mid-septal Pacing Optimized Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy: A Novel Approach
Authors: Liang yanchun , Li Jialin , Yu Haibo , Xu guoqing , Gao Yang , Xu Baige , Yan Xiaolei , Wang Zulu , Han Yaling
Published: January 2024

A non-responder heart failure patient to conventional cardiac
resynchronization therapy (CRT) received novel mid-septal pacing (MSP)
optimized CRT (MOT-CRT) by pacing at middle part of septum which
captured both right and left ventricular septum in combination with
coronary venous pacing (CVP). The QRS duration was shortened from 142 ms
of the conventional CRT to 110 ms with improved cardiac function. MSP
bypassed slow transseptal conduction and reduced 31 ms of left
ventricular activation delay compared with right ventricular septal
pacing. This case demonstrates for the first time that the MOT-CRT might
serve as a valuable alternative to CRT.