bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renal Safety of Zoledronic Acid in Patients with Osteoporosis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ma Yanhua , Xu Shen , Xu Zhongyue , Zhang Ying , Lu Chunyan , Chen Decai , Wang Qin
Published: July 2023

Introduction
This study aimed to investigate the renal safety of Zoledronic Acid (ZOL) in patients with osteoporosis (OP).
Methods
A total of 1,523 patients with primary OP who received ZOL from January 2008 to October 2020 at our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Baseline and one-year post-infusion renal function index data were analyzed in relation to clinical characteristics and comorbidities. Furthermore, the changes in renal function between a three-year consecutive infusion and a single infusion of ZOL were compared.
Results
In our study, patients with diabetes mellitus had a significantly lower estimated glomerular filtration rate than those without after one year of ZOL infusion, and their creatinine (Cr) and cystatin C (CysC) levels were significantly higher (all P < 0.05). Patients with malignant tumors had a significantly lower estimated glomerular filtration rate and higher Cr levels than those without (all P < 0.05). CysC levels were significantly higher in patients aged 65 and older and those with hypertension than in their counterparts (all P < 0.05). No adverse renal events such as acute kidney injury were detected. There were no significant differences in renal function index between the three-year continuous infusion group and the single infusion group after one year of infusion(s) (all P > 0.05).
Conclusion
ZOL infusion shows good renal safety in OP patients. Continuous infusion of ZOL did not exert a significant impact on renal function when compared to single infusion. However, the age of 65 years or older and comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or malignant tumors may represent risk factors that predict adverse renal effects of ZOL infusion.
Mini Abstract
The renal safety of Zoledronic Acid treatment in osteoporosispatients remains incompletely elucidated. We found that the infusion has good renal safety in osteoporosis patients, but careful monitoring of renal function is recommended for patients who are aged 65 years or older and those with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or malignant tumors.
The Impact of School Service Quality on Student Learning Satisfaction: A Comparative Study of Public and Private High Schools in China
Authors: Li Tianxin , Guo Tao , Qi Zhanyong
Published: July 2023

This research examined the link between school service quality and student learning satisfaction in Chinese public and private high schools. A comprehensive comparative analysis was executed, involving the distribution of a questionnaire to 22,588 students from 20 districts in X City, China. Utilizing structural equation modeling, the study determined that four dimensions of school service quality—reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy—exerted a positive impact on student learning satisfaction across both public and private high schools. The multi-group confirmatory factor analysis verified the structural model’s consistency between public and private high schools. Nonetheless, latent mean comparisons revealed that private high school students exhibited greater satisfaction with school service quality and their learning experiences compared to their public high school counterparts. The results imply that private schools delivered superior service quality, resulting in heightened student satisfaction. This study underscores the vital role of school and instructional factors in augmenting school service quality and student learning experiences, thereby offering invaluable insights for educators, policymakers, and school administrators in the Chinese context.
A mediation analysis of obesity and adiponectin association with postmenopausal breast cancer risk: a nested cohort study in the IBIS-II Prevention Trial
Authors: Macis Debora , Bellerba Federica , Aristarco Valentina , Johansson Harriet , Guerrieri-Gonzaga Aliana , Lazzeroni Matteo , Sestak Ivana , Cuzick Jack , DeCensi Andrea , Bonanni Bernardo , Gandini Sara
Published: July 2023

Purpose
Obesity is a risk factor for postmenopausal breast cancer and evidence supports the pivotal role of adiponectin in the association between obesity and breast cancer. We aimed to investigate whether the effect of baseline body mass index (BMI) on postmenopausal breast cancer risk was mediated by adiponectin or other circulating biomarkers.
Methods
We measured adiponectin, leptin, IGF-I, IGFBP-1, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, glycemia, insulin, HOMA-IR index, and SHBG in baseline and 12-month serum samples from 123 cases and 302 matched controls in the placebo arm of the IBIS-II Prevention trial. We conducted the main mediation analysis considering BMI at baseline as an exposure and the increase in adiponectin at 12 months as a mediator after adjustment for the Tyrer-Cuzick score and the use of lipid-lowering medications and supplements.
Results
The 12-month increase in adiponectin levels was significantly associated with a 40% decrease in the risk of breast cancer [hazard ratio (HR), 0.60; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.36-1.00]. The estimate of the association of BMI was low, indicating only a 5% increase in breast cancer risk (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.00-1.09). The increase in adiponectin levels at 12 months did not mediate the effect of BMI on breast cancer risk (HR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.98–1.02).
Conclusion
Mediation analysis indicated an independent role of adiponectin in postmenopausal breast cancer risk. Raising adiponectin levels might be an attractive target for postmenopausal breast cancer prevention.
Inhibitory effect of Garlic Powder on MPTP-induced dopaminergic neurodegeneration by activation of Nrf2-HO1 and mitochondrial dynamics
Authors: SHI Ming , Hao Li , Yuan Ye , Yang Jing , Ma He , Hölscher Christian , Zhang Tao , Sun Yujie , Zhang Zijuan , Zhang Zhenqiang
Published: July 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) is implicated for dopaminergic neurodegeneration. Previously, research shows garlic has been shown to have potent neuroprotective effect, especially antioxidant activity on several disease models. To investigate the protective effect of Garlic powder against 1-methyl-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced PD model, 2 months old C57BL/6 mice received intraperitoneal injection of MPTP (20 mg/kg) during the first 7 days of treatment. Garlic powder were given, respectively, by 13mg/kg, 26mg/kg, 52mg/kg (oral formulation) for 30 days continuously. Our data showed that Garlic powder decreased MPTP-induced behavioral impairments, alleviating dopaminergic neuron loss and mitochondrial damage as well as oxidative stress. Further, in vitro study, Garlic powder effectively decreased MPP+ (2mM)-induced oxidative stress in N2a cells. Moreover, treatment of Nrf2 inhibitor ML-385 (5µM) inhibited Garlic powder induced protective effect on cell under stress. These results indicated that Garlic powder can rescue the mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress in the substantia nigra in PD mouse model and N2a cells by Nrf2-HO1 signaling pathway and mitochondrial dynamics. Garlic powder shows neuroprotective effects in PD treatment.
Effects of COVID-19 infection in patients with autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis: a single-center study
Authors: Duan Chuanxin , Zhou Wangji , Zhang Miaoyan , Cheng Chongsheng , Xu Wenshuai , Dai Jinrong , Meng Shuzhen , Chen Keqi , Zhao Yang , Liu Song , Wang Shao-Ting , Yang Yanli , Xu Kai-Feng , Tian Xinlun
Published: July 2023

Background:Autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (aPAP) is a rare interstitial lung disease. COVID-19 is associated with worse prognosis in previous lung diseases patients. But the prognosis of aPAP patients after infection with COVID-19 is unclear. In December 2022, China experienced a large-scale outbreak of Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we aim to explore the clinical outcomes of aPAP patients infected with COVID-19.
Results: A total of 39 aPAP patients were included in this study. 30.77% patients had a decrease in oxygen saturation after COVID-19 infection. We compared the two groups of patients with or without decreased oxygen saturation after COVID-19 infection and found that patients who had previous oxygen therapy (decreased oxygen saturation vs. non decreased oxygen saturation: 6/12 vs. 4/27, P = 0.043), with lower baseline arterial oxygen partial pressure (74.50 ± 13.61 mmHg vs. 86.49 ± 11.92 mmHg, P = 0.009), lower baseline DLCO/VA% [77.0 (74.3, 93.6) % vs. 89.5 (78.2, 97.4) %, P = 0.036], shorter baseline 6MWD [464 (406, 538) m vs. 532 (470, 575) m, P = 0.028], higher disease severity score (P = 0.017), were more likely to have decreased oxygen saturation after COVID-19 infection.
Conclusion: aPAP patients with poor baseline respiration have a higher probability of hypoxia after COVID-19 infection, but fatal events were rare.
Social dilemma in the predator-prey model and evolution of cooperation by learning
Authors: Lee Nahyeon , Chae Sunhee , Baek Seung Ki , Jeong Hyeong-Chai
Published: July 2023

We consider an agent-based predator-prey model in a two-dimensionalcontinuum space and show that a cooperative chasing strategy can emergein a social dilemma.Predators can use two different chasing strategies: A direct chasingstrategy(DCS) and a group chasing strategy (GCS).The DCS is a selfish strategy with which a chaser moves straighttoward the nearest prey, and the GCS is a cooperative strategy in thesense that the chaser chooses the chasing direction for the group at acost of its own speed.A prey flees away from the nearest hazard, either a chaser or theboundary, within its recognition range.We check the capturing activities of each strategy and find a socialdilemma between the two strategies because the GCS is more efficientfor the group whereas the DCS is better individually.Using a series of numerical simulations, we further show that thecooperative strategy can proliferate when a learning process of nearbysuccessful strategies is introduced.
Development of Nanosecond Spike Pulse Power Supply for Electrochemical Micromachining
Authors: Zhao Chuanjun , Zou Qingzhi , Ren Xiaoguang , Xu Lizhong
Published: July 2023

The use of pulse voltage can greatly improve the precision of electrochemical microfabrication, and the narrower the pulse width of the applied pulse voltage signal, the higher the machining precision. However, the commonly used chopper circuit topology of pulse power supplies is limited by the maximum switching frequency of the field-effect transistor. To address this problem, this paper proposes a nanosecond pulse electrochemical micromachining power supply based on a differential circuit. The power supply uses the STM32F103C8T6 microcontroller as the control core to output high-performance rectangular waves through a DDS device. After differential, rectification, filtering, and power amplification processing, stable, frequency, amplitude, and pulse width adjustable spike pulse voltage signals are obtained. By establishing a system mathematical model and optimizing the time constant of the differential circuit, theoretically, the sub-nanosecond pulse width can be obtained. Prototype performance tests show that the power supply has a maximum frequency of 20MHz, a minimum pulse width of 1.8ns, and a maximum peak voltage of 10V. By using this power supply for microhole electrochemical machining experiments, nanometer-level machining precision has been achieved. Compared with the power supply reported in the literature, the designed spike pulse power supply has a narrower pulse width and better waveform performance, thereby improving the precision and localization of electrochemical micromachining.
Effects of Forces Used in Tooth Movement on the Periodontium of Teeth with Extrusive Luxation - Experimental Study in Rats
Authors: Carvalho Ariane Fernanda , Amorim João Paulo de Arruda , Amorim Elaine Manoela Porto , Castilhos Jussimar Scheffer , Busato Priscilla do Monte Ribeiro , Busato Mauro Carlos Agner
Published: July 2023

Objectives
This study assessed the effect of different types of orthodontic forces (continuous (C), continuous interrupted (Ci) and intermittent (I)) on the amount of tooth movement (TM) and root resorption (RR) mesio-vestibular and intermediate (RRmv, RRi, respectively) of teeth submitted (L) or not (nL) to extrusive luxation (EL). Data on hyaline areas were also assessed.
Materials and Methods
Forty-eight Wistar rats were randomly divided into 8 groups (n = 6) according to the combination of independent variables (the type of force and luxation): the moved [nL-C, nL-Ci, nL-I, L-C, L-Ci, L-I] and the non-moving [L-nM and nL-nM (control)]. The EL of the first right upper molar was performed under a force of 1500 cN for 10 seconds. After 15 days, TM was initiated with a force of 50 cN, with the three types of force (C, Ci, I). On the 14th day, the amount of TM was measured, and the animals were euthanized, the parts processed, included, cut at the cervical level of the molars, and submitted to staining with hematoxylin and eosin (HE).
Results
The results showed more significant movement for the C and Ci forces when compared to I in the groups submitted to luxation (p < 0.05). The luxation factor did not influence tooth movement, except for the Ci force (nL-Ci = 0.25 x L-Ci = 0.44) (p < 0.05). The amount of RR was not influenced by the type of force nor by the EL. Regarding the number of hyaline areas, it was not possible to visualize differences between the groups, under the conditions of this study.
Conclusions
The amount of tooth movement in teeth submitted to extrusive luxation was influenced by the type of force. In turn, the amount of root resorption was not influenced by the type of force or by the extrusive luxation. And in these induced experimental conditions were not sufficient to generate alterations in the hyaline areas.
Clinical Relevance: The history of dental trauma and the type of force used during orthodontic treatment can influence the amount of tooth movement.
Inhibition of DNA polymerase eta-mediated translesion DNA synthesis by small molecule sensitizes ovarian cancer stem-like cells to chemotherapy
Authors: Srivast Amit , Bose Subhankar , Saha Priyanka , Alam Md Tanjim , Chatterjee Bilash , Sarkar Mrinmoy , Dixit Amit , Kumar Deepak , Tripathi Prem
Published: July 2023

Chemoresistance and tumor relapse pose significant challenges in achieving successful chemotherapy outcomes. Targeting DNA polymerase eta (Pol ƞ) mediated-mutagenic translesion DNA synthesis (TLS) has emerged as a promising strategy for improving chemotherapy. However, the identification of small molecule inhibitors specifically targeting Pol η-mediated TLS with high in vivo efficacy remains a challenge. In this study, we screened and identified chrysin as a small-molecule inhibitor that sensitizes ovarian cancer stem-like cells (CSLCs) to cisplatin treatment by inhibiting Pol ƞ-mediated TLS. Chrysin effectively inhibits Pol ƞ expression, enhancing cisplatin-induced cell death both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, chrysin treatment reduces spontaneous and cisplatin-induced mutagenesis. Pre-treatment with chrysin attenuates cisplatin-induced hematological toxicity and suppresses tumor growth in ovarian cancer human xenografts. These results establish chrysin as a novel class of TLS inhibitors and highlight its potential as a chemotherapy adjuvant for overcoming chemoresistance and improving treatment outcomes in ovarian cancer.
Primary Umbilical Endometriosis Coexisting with Multiple Uterine Myomas : A Rare Case Report
Authors: Nongo Benjain H. , Isah Dennis Anthony
Published: July 2023

Endometriosis and Uterine fibroids affect millions of women world-wide. Primary endometriosis is said to be very rare. The coexistence of endometriosis with uterine myomas (Ieiomyomata) has been reported in few publications. Although the aetiology and natural history of the conditions are markedly different. Symptoms can overlap and make differential diagnosis necessary, often times making use of some invasive investigative tools such as laparoscopy. The two conditions may manifest with considerable comorbities and these needs to be taken into account when treating fibroids and/or endometriosis. Yet to be fully understood are the genetic basis of these two conditions, but recent evidence suggest common underpinnings. We here by present a patient with Primary umbilical endometriosis with coexisting multiple uterine fibroids, who had radical excision (Omphalectomy) and abdominal myomectomy. To the best of our knowledge, a similar case has not been reported before.
Comparing Dose-dependent Outcomes of Weekly and Daily Growth Hormone Therapy in Children with Growth Hormone Deficiency: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Alnajar Maged , Mora Wageeda , Abd-ElGawad Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Background
Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a condition impacting children and adults, leading to low height and other health issues. The primary treatment is daily injections of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH), though they can be inconvenient and costly. These injections may also negatively impact treatment adherence and outcomes. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of once-weekly growth hormone treatment vs daily growth hormone therapy in children with growth hormone insufficiency.
Methods
To examine the efficacy and safety of once-weekly and once-daily growth hormone treatment for children with growth hormone insufficiency, this meta-analysis followed PRISMA and Cochrane standards. RCTs and prospective cohort studies with children aged 0–18 diagnosed with GHD were considered eligible. We used the risk of bias 2 and the certainty of evidence using the Cochrane tools. Two authors independently assessed papers for eligibility and extracted data after conducting a thorough search of electronic resources. Height velocity, height standard deviation score, insulin-like growth factor 1 levels, and the incidence of adverse events were the primary outcomes. The Revman software version 5.4 was used for data synthesis, and heterogeneity was determined by I-squares greater than 60%.
Results
This meta-analysis and comprehensive review includes 14 randomized clinical trials and one study was cohort, including 1,322 children with growth hormone insufficiency. Weekly growth hormone treatment at dosages ranging from 0.11 to 0.25 mg enhanced a variety of growth outcomes, including increased height velocity dose (SMD = 0.37, 95% CI, 0.23–0.51; P < 0.001), height standard deviation scores chronological age (SMD= -0.10, 95% CI, -0.13–0.07; P < 0.001), and insulin-like growth factor 1 standard deviation score (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI, 0.40–0.42; P < 0.001). The dosage range of 0.26 to 0.50 mg also improved insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 significantly (SMD= -0.63, 95% CI, -0.90 – -0.37; P < 0.001). Nevertheless, there were no significant differences in the occurrence of adverse events through the dosage levels (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.40; P = 0.32).
Conclusions
In children with growth hormone deficit, weekly growth hormone treatment, particularly in the 0.11 to 0.25 mg dose range, can function as a viable alternative to daily growth hormone therapy.
Impact of corticosteroids exposure for preterm labor in neonates eventually born at term
Authors: RENARD Emeline , BEST Céline , HASCOET Jean-Michel , JEANBERT Elodie , Morel Olivier , Baumann Cédric
Published: July 2023

Objective: To evaluate the impact of antenatal corticosteroid therapy (ACS) on birth parameters of full-term newborns exposed during pregnancy for prematurity threat.
Study Design: Exposed newborns were randomly compared to non-exposed controls in a 1-to-2 design. Data were retrospectively collected in infants’ files. Multivariate analysis assessed the impact of ACS on neonatal outcome.
Result: 408 term born neonates were included, 136exposed to ACScompared to 272 non-exposed controls. Mean+/-SD Head Circumference (HC) was 33.7+/-1.4 vs 34.3+/-1.6 cm, p=0.001in exposed vs controls; birth weight (BW) 3.1+/-0.4 vs.3.3+/-0.4 Kg; p = 0.0001; Birth Height (BH) 47.9+/-2.1 vs. 49.1+/-2.0 cm; p<0.0001. Hypocalcemia (4.4 vs 0.7% p=0.019) and eating difficulties (5.1 vs 1.5% p=0.047)were significantly higher in exposed newborns. Multivariate analysis for HC showed a significant independent association with ACS(β=-0.5, p=0.009).
Conclusion: Term neonates exposed to ACS have a smaller HC at birth and a higher risk of neonatal complications.
Microencapsulated rrbNGF as an Alternative Ovulation Induction Method in Rabbits
Authors: Quiroga Alejandra C. , Gimeno-Martos Silvia , Lorenzo Pedro L. , Arias-Álvarez María , Rebollar Pilar G. , García-García Rosa M.
Published: July 2023

Background
Rabbits are a reflexive ovulatory species, and intramuscular administration of exogenous hormonal factors such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues at artificial insemination (AI) are traditionally used to induce ovulation. To find more animal-friendly ovulation methods, the addition of a molecule naturally present in the seminal plasma, such as nerve growth factor (NGF) microencapsulated with chitosan for protection and administered by intravaginal via, has been studied. First, its biological activity in pheochromocytoma of the rat adrenal medulla (PC12) cell cultures and its effects in semen were tested. Subsequently, the ability of the intravaginal NGF-chitosan delivery system administered at AI time (NGFch-0) or 30 min before AI (NGFch-30) in eliciting ovulation estimating progesterone concentrations on Day 7 post AI, as well as fertility and prolificacy results in nulliparous and multiparous rabbit does, were compared with the treatment with an analogue of GnRH (GnRH), as well as with the insertion of an empty (C-e) or containing diluted semen (C-s) catheter.
Results
NGF-chitosan could promote PC12 differentiation to the same extent as free NGF without impairing cell viability. Microcapsules did not interfere with semen motility, viability or capacitation status. All groups of nulliparous rabbit does responded to all treatments reaching ovulation rates statistically similar between them (GnRH 90%; NGFch-30 100%; NGFch-0 66.7% and C-e 83.3%), with higher fertility rates in GnRH and NGFch-30 groups (90 and 100%, respectively) than in NGFch-0 (60%) and similar prolificacy results. However, multiparous females showed reduced ovulation and fertility rates upon NGF-chitosan exposure regardless of administration time or after the mechanical stimulus compared to the GnRH group. In both C-e and C-s groups was also observed a significant ovulatory response.
Conclusions
We have demonstrated that NGF-chitosan administration 30 min before AI-induced ovulation at a similar rate to GnRH injection in nulliparous but not in multiparous does. A better receptivity status of nulliparous females could be a determining factor of this response. Nonetheless, mechanical stimulation also determined a high ovulation induction rate, thus masking the NGF-derived effect.
Cost-effectiveness of prehabilitation of elderly frail or pre-frail patients prior to elective surgery (PRAEP-GO) versus usual care – Protocol for a health economic evaluation alongside a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Eckhardt Helene , Quentin Wilm , Silzle Julia , Busse Reinhard , Rombey Tanja
Published: July 2023

Background

Prehabilitation aims to improve patients' functional capacity before surgery to reduce perioperative complications, promote recovery and decrease probability of disability. The planned economic evaluation is performed alongside a large German multi-centre pragmatic, two-arm parallel-group, randomized controlled trial on prehabilitation for frail elderly patients before elective surgery compared to standard care (PRAEP-GO RCT). The aim is to determine the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of prehabilitation for frail elderly before an elective surgery.

Methods

The planned health economic evaluation comprises cost-effectiveness, cost-utility, and cost-minimisation analyses. Analyses are conducted in the German context from different perspectives including the payer perspective, i.e. the statutory health insurance, the societal perspective and the health care provider perspective. Data on outcomes and costs, are collected alongside the ongoing PRAEP-GO RCT. The trial population includes frail or pre-frail patients aged ≥70 years with planned elective surgery. The intervention consists of frailty screening (Fried phenotype), a shared decision-making conference determining modality (physiotherapy and unsupervised physical exercises, nutrition counselling, etc.) and setting (inpatient, day care, outpatient etc.) of a 3-week individual multimodal prehabilitation prior to surgery. The control group receives standard preoperative care.
Costs include the intervention costs, the costs of the index hospital stay for surgery, and health care resources consumed during a 12-month follow-up. Clinical effectiveness outcomes included in the economic evaluation are the level of care dependency, the degree of disability as measured by the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0), quality-adjusted life years (QALY) derived from the EQ-5D-5L and the German utility set, and complications occurring during the index hospital stay. Each adopted perspective considers different types of costs and outcomes as outlined in the protocol. All analyses will feature Intention-To-Treat analysis. To explore methodological and parametric uncertainties, we will conduct probabilistic and deterministic sensitivity analyses. Subgroup analyses will be performed as secondary analyses.

Discussion

The health economic evaluation will provide insights into the cost-effectiveness of prehabilitation in older frail populations, informing decision-making processes and contributing to the evidence base in this field. Potential limitation includes a highly heterogeneous trial population.

Trial registration

PRAEP-GO RCT: NCT04418271; economic evaluation: OSF (https://osf.io/swn79/ registration initiated on 29.06.2023).
Comparison of fiberoptic intubation using i-gel® Plus and standard i-gel® : A Thiel-embalmed cadaveric study
Authors: Chaki Tomohiro , Tachibana Shunsuke , Kumita Sho , Sato Satoshi , Hirahata Tomoki , Ikeshima Yuta , Ohasaki Yuki , Yamakage Michiaki
Published: July 2023

Purpose
The supraglottic airway (SGA) is widely used. I-gel® Plus is a next-generation i-gel® with some improvements, including facilitation of fiberoptic tracheal intubation (FOI). To compare the performance of i-gel® Plus and standard i-gel® as a guide for FOI, a Thiel-embalmed cadaveric study was conducted.
Methods
Twenty-two anesthesiologists were enrolled as operators in Experiment 1. The i-gel® Plus and standard i-gel® were inserted into one cadaver, and FOI was performed through each SGA. In Experiment 2, fiberoptic views of the vocal cords in each SGA were assessed using nine cadavers. The primary outcome was time required for FOI. The secondary outcomes were the number of attempts and visual analog scale (VAS) score for difficulty in FOI. Moreover, time, number of attempts, VAS for difficulty of SGA insertion and gastric tube placement, and fiberoptic view of the vocal cords were evaluated as secondary outcomes.
Results
The time for FOI through i-gel® Plus was significantly shorter than that through standard i-gel® (median (IQR), i-gel® Plus: 30.5 (21.8–34.3) sec, vs standard i-gel®: 45.0 (28.0–89.0) sec; median of differences, 11.2 sec; 95% confidence interval, 7.1–41.3; P < 0.001). The number of attempts for successful FOI and the VAS for difficulty in the i-gel® Plus group were significantly lower than those in the standard i-gel® group. Moreover, i-gel® Plus required a significantly smaller upward angle of the fiberscope tip to obtain a 100% percentage of glottic opening score.
Conclusion
FOI can be performed more easily using i-gel® Plus than using standard i-gel®.
Upper Mantle deformation beneath the Northeastern part of Indian plate from Shear-wave splitting analysis
Authors: Kanaujia Jyotima , Surve G.
Published: July 2023

This study investigates seismic anisotropy in the northeastern region of the Indianplate, including the Eastern Himalayan front, Eastern Himalaya Syntaxis (EHS),Indo-Burmese subduction zone, Shillong plateau, Assam foredeep and Bengalbasin. Variations in azimuthal anisotropy are interpreted in terms of pre-existinglithospheric structures, mantle flow movement and dynamic lithospheric stresses.Analysis of shear-wave splitting (SWS) in the waveforms recorded at 64 stationsyielded 305 splitting (SKS, SKKS, and PKS phases) and 386 Null measurements.Results reveal an average delay time (δt) of 0.95 ± 0.32 s, indicating significantanisotropy. Modelling the backazimuthal dependence of the splitting parametersindicates two-layer anisotropy along the Eastern Himalaya, Shillong plateau, andsouth of the Dauki fault contiguous with the Indo-Burmese arc. Application ofthe spatial coherency technique localizes the depth of the anisotropic layers indifferent tectonic subdivisions. Stresses and lithospheric strain associated withAbsolute Plate Motion (APM) of India explain the deformation patterns gleanedfrom splitting measurements. A vertically coherent crust-mantle deformation isproposed at the Himalayan collision front, where east-west-oriented extensionalshear stresses result in north-south compressive strains. APM-related stressesforge anisotropy in the Assam foredeep region that shows a coupled crust-mantledeformation. East-west-oriented fast polarization directions (FPDs) beneath theShillong Plateau indicate localized mantle flow along the Dauki fault. The fastaxes of anisotropy in the Indo-Burmese subduction zone align parallel to the arc.These findings enhance the knowledge of mantle dynamics in the subduction andcontinent-continent collision zones.
Do emotion regulation strategies mediate the relationship of parental emotion socialization with adolescents’ and emerging adults’ psychological distress?
Authors: BUJOR LILIANA , TURLIUC MARIA NICOLETA , KLIMES-DOUGAN BONNIE
Published: July 2023

A child’s ability to cope with stress is shaped by experiences in the parent-child relationship. The direct effect of a parent’s response to anger and happiness in childhood on adolescents’ and emerging adults’ psychological distress, and the indirect effect through the mediating role of emotion regulation strategies, specifically cognitive reappraisal and emotional suppression, were measured. To achieve our research aim we tested four parallel mediation models, using the bootstrapping method. A group of 497 participants, aged between 14 and 35 years (M = 18.62;SD = 3.32), 66% female (n = 332) and 34% male (n = 165), completed a questionnaire comprised of self-reporting measures. The results indicate direct effects between emotion socialization and distress for seven independent variables. The mother’s and father’s positive responses to anger and happiness are significant negative predictors of distress, the negative responses of both parents to happiness, and the mother’s negative response to anger, but not the father’s, are significant positive predictors of distress. The findings also provide support for the mediating role of expressive suppression and cognitive reappraisal for the mother’s positive response to both, anger and happiness, as well as for the mother’s negative response to the child’s expression of happiness. None of father’s responses, positive or negative, in relation to anger or happiness, are mediated by emotion regulation strategies in relation to distress. The findings have some important theoretical and clinical implications for distressed adolescents and emerging adults.
Consensus on relevant psychosocial interventions applied in health institutions to prevent psychological violence at work: Delphi method
Authors: Tueros Luis Fidel Abregú , Bravo-Esqu Cinthia Jannete , Abregú-Arroyo Sheyla Karol , Santos-Rosa Roger Dos , Manzano José Luis Galve
Published: July 2023

Objective
Studies on workplace violence (WPV) in Latin America have focused on incidence values. In contrast, studies on preventive interventions (PIs) in the health sector are very limited. Our objective was to determine to what extent there is consensus on the most relevant characteristics of the psychosocial interventions applied in the prevention of WPV in health institutions in Peru. To that end, health professionals with knowledge and experience in WPV at the national level were recruited, and the Delphi consensus technique was applied.
Results
The consensus study was developed in four stages that included three phases of Delphi consultation. In the third consultation phase, 428 experts participated in 25 analysis groups from 66 health institutions in the country. A total of 70.3% of the participants were women, and 27.6% of the participants worked in nursing and emergency services. After the Delphi consensus analysis, we obtained a list of 10 hierarchical psychosocial interventions to prevent WPV in the country. Most notable were interventions based on the prior resolution of interprofessional conflicts, on the visibility of incidents to generate an inverse effect and on experiential training to improve assertive and empathic communication skills.
Enriched environment promotes neuroplasticity by regulating the ALK5/Smad2/3/Gadd45β signaling pathway in rats with cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Liu Gang , Xie Chenchen , Li Jiani , Jiang Xia , Tang Hao , Li Changqing , Zhang Keming
Published: July 2023

Background/AimsEnriched environment (EE) has been shown to modulate neuroplasticity in neurodegenerative diseases, but its role and mechanisms in ischemic stroke remain unclear. Our previous findings revealed that EE can promote cerebral activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5) expression after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). It was found that ALK5 might play a role in neuroplasticity through the modulation of Smad2/3/Growth Arrest DNA Damage 45 β (Gadd45β). Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the role of EE on neuroplasticity after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion and its mechanisms.MethodsThe middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) method was employed to establish a rat model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. The role of ALK5 was determined by intracerebral stereotactic injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV) to inhibit the expression of ALK5. The respective effects of EE treatment with or without ALK5 knockdown on ALK5/Smad2/3/Gadd45β expression, infarct volume, newborn neurons, dendritic complexity and regenerated nerve fibers in rats were observed.ResultsCerebral I/R injury induced an increase in ALK5 expression, Smad2/3 phosphorylation ratio, and Gadd45β expression for up to 14 days. EE treatment further enhanced the expression of these molecules, which was reversed by ALK5 knockdown. The protective effect of EE treatment on brain infarct volume, neurological function, newborn neurons, dendritic complexity, and nerve fiber regeneration following I/R injury were counteracted by the AAV-ALK5-induced knockdown of ALK5.ConclusionEE treatment can enhance neuroplasticity following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury, which was mediated by the regulation of ALK5/Smad2/3/Gadd45β signaling pathway.
Evaluation of factors predicting the benefit from systemic oncological treatment for severely ill hospitalized patients: A retrospective study
Authors: Neves Milena Brachmans Mascarenhas , Neves Yuri Costa Sarno , Bomonetto Juliana Vieira Biason , Matos Priscila Prais Carneiro , Giglio Auro Del , Cubero Daniel de Iracema Gomes
Published: July 2023

Background
Patients with cancer in the disease’s end-stage with poor performance represent a challenging clinical scenario, as they have high chance of a fatal outcome due to clinical conditions, oncological emergencies, and/or metastatic disease. This study examines the factors predicting the potential benefit of “urgent” chemotherapy during hospitalization in this setting, thus addressing a research gap.
Methods
This retrospective observational study was conducted in the largest cancer center in the outskirts of São Paulo. It identified factors predicting the benefit from antineoplastic treatment in severe in-hospital patients admitted during 2019–2020, considering post-chemotherapy survival time as the main dependent variable. Data were retrieved from medical records. All patients aged ≥ 18 years, with an ECOG-PS score ≥ 2, and undergoing non-elective systemic cancer treatment were included.
Results
This study evaluated 204 records, of which 89 were included in the final analysis. A statistically significant association with the worse outcome (death within 30 days of chemotherapy) was found with higher ECOG performance status; chemotherapy dose reduction; lower values of serum albumin, hemoglobin, and creatinine clearance; and higher values of leukocytes, neutrophils, direct bilirubin, urea, and C-reactive protein. In the multivariate analysis, only albumin remained statistically associated with the outcome (hazard ratio = 0.35; confidence interval: 0.14, 0.90; p = 0.034).
Conclusions
Serum albumin and other clinical and laboratory variables might be associated with early post-treatment deaths in patients with cancer. The study data might help guide the decision to administer systemic treatment in this scenario and manage critically ill patients. This study adds to our knowledge of the factors predicting the objective benefits from “heroic” or “urgent” chemotherapy for hospitalized and severely ill patients with cancer.
Analysis and validation of genes co-expressed in Crohn's disease and cervical cancer based on GEO database.
Authors: ZHANG Le , Zou Jing , Wang Zhen , Liu Hongru , Jiang Bei , Liang Yi , ZHANG YuZhe
Published: July 2023

Background
In recent years, many studies have shown that Crohn's disease (CD) can increase the incidence of cervical cancer in women. However, the mechanism of the association is unclear, and this study aimed to investigate further the mechanisms underlying the joint development of both diseases.
Methods
Gene expression profiles of Crohn's disease (GSE95095) and cervical cancer (GSE63514) were downloaded from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the experimental group and control group of Crohn's disease and cervical cancer were searched for, as well as co-expressed genes in the two conditions. These co-expressed genes were then subjected to functional annotation, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and module construction, screening and co-expression analysis of key genes, and prediction and validation of transcription factors that exert regulatory effects on the corresponding key genes.
Results
A total of 63 co-expressed genes were screened from the differential genes of the two disease groups: 17 up-regulated and 46 down-regulated genes. Functional analysis revealed that hormone metabolic processes, steroid hormone synthesis processes and angiogenesis, play a crucial role in both diseases. In addition, 15 important core genes were screened. We used core genes that were upregulated in both diseases. The core genes upregulated in both conditions: AKR1B1, CHI3L1, CXCR4 and DUSP2, were used to construct risk models for predicting disease progression. Finally, it is expected that transcription factors such as MYC, VHL and SP1 may play a regulatory role on core genes, with the regulation of CXCR4 by the transcription factor MYC deserving an in-depth study. Combining the extent scores and high expression levels of both diseases, CXCR4 is considered the most risky gene and is expected to be a biomarker for both diseases. Finally, CXCR4 expression in cervical cancer was verified using immunohistochemistry and protein immunoblotting assays.
Conclusion
This study has provided initial insights into the common pathogenesis of Crohn's disease and cervical cancer and the potential co-expression of key genes. These common pathways and key gene mechanisms require further investigation and can provide a crucial reference for early clinical diagnosis and treatment.
A modification in Weibull parameters to achieve a more accurate probability distribution function in fatigue applications
Authors: Fakoor Hamed , Kaklar Javad Alizadeh
Published: July 2023

Risk evaluation for fatigue failure of the engineering components is an important aspect of the engineering design. This study presents a probabilistic model for calculating Weibull distribution parameters to reduce the effect of percentage discretization error of experimental fatigue life and R-S-N curves for three reliability levels. The results show some error reduction in the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and R-square values. Also, the Basquin model is used for different reliability levels with the same error order. The coefficient of variation for fatigue life increases at higher stress levels and has a linear relation with stress level for a high-cycle fatigue regime.
Theoretical and experimental study of tool wear using active backup force for drilling composite materials
Authors: Liao Shao-Sen , Tsao chung-chen
Published: July 2023

The advent of composite materials has allowed for the state-of-the-art fabrication of structural parts with delamination-free holes. These are widely used polymers in aerospace, military and biomedical devices. Fabricating a delamination-free hole using a traditional twist drill is fast and cost-effective but the surface roughness depends on the drilling parameters, the tool geometry and the tool material. However, tool wear is inevitable when machining composite materials. It reduces the service life of the tool and affects the surface quality and the dimensional accuracy of structural parts. A mechanical and energy analysis is used to develop a mathematical model for the critical thrust force to correlate tool wear and the associated active backup force for drilling composite materials. The theoretical analysis and experimental results show that delamination due to worn twist drills is mitigated by using an active backup force. The developed model is extended to determine the effect of tool wear and an active backup force on the thrust force for future drill bits.
Penile Oleogranuloma: surgical management in Kazakhstan
Authors: Suleiman Makhmud , Mustafa Aidana , Ainayev Yernur , Urazova Saltanat , Garkalov Konstantin , Muldayeva Gulmira , Mustafin Adil , Turebayev Dulat , Zhanbyrbekuly Ulanbek , Gudeloglu Ahmet
Published: July 2023

Oleogranuloma of the penis is a complex set of pathological processes caused by the injection of a foreign substance (gel, balls, rods, etc.) into the penis with the purpose of penile augmentation. We investigated the relevance of this problem to Kazakhstan and described our experience in managing the complications. We analyzed data on 18 patients with penile self-injections admitted to the hospitals of Astana city, Kazakhstan during an 11-year period. The mean age of patients at admittance was 37.4 years. The most common substance of injection was vaseline (n=16, 88%). The mean interval between the time of injection and the first presentation to the hospital was 10.8 years. Complications included necrosis (n=13, 72.2%), pain or swelling (n=6, 33.3%), cosmetic dissatisfaction (n=5, 27.8%). All patients received surgical treatment (n=18, 100%): primary incision was performed for one half of patients (9, n=50%), while another half of patients underwent the Reich’s surgery (9, n=50%). Our data suggest that the prevalence of oleogranuloma in Kazakhstan is higher than it was previously admitted. The findings of this study should raise the awareness about the complications of penile self-injections among high-risk groups (e. g. prisoners) and physicians for prevention and early diagnosis, respectively.
Infected Urachal Cyst with Urethral Stricture Presenting as Acute Appendicitis: Case Report
Authors: Aggarwal Swati , Ohri Gunvi , Anand Rohit , Anand Madhur
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Urachal anomalies are rare disorders of the urogenital tract, more commonly found in males, and sometimes they may masquerade as other diseases. We present a case of urachal cyst with urethral stricture which presented as acute appendicitis.
Case presentation: A 22-year-old patient presented to our emergency department in shock, following a one-week history of pain in the lower right abdomen. The patient was initially diagnosed with acute appendicitis based on clinical examination, and a urology consultation was requested due to the inability to catheterize the patient. The patient also reported a history of dysuria and straining, with unsuccessful attempts at catheterization. Ultrasonography revealed the presence of free fluid in the peritoneum and grade III hydroureteronephrosis. During exploratory laparotomy, we discovered a urachal cyst that had no connection with the bladder. The urachal cyst was excised after performing a suprapubic cystostomy. Following conservative surgery for pus drainage and excision of the urachal cyst, further management in the form of urethroplasty was performed to address the urethral stricture.
Conclusions: Urachal abnormalities are rare causes of abdominal pain. Obtaining a detailed patient history and maintaining a high index of suspicion is crucial for improving patient outcomes
Association between psychological distress and possible, probable, and definite sleep bruxism - a comparison of approved diagnostic procedures
Authors: Walentek Nicole Pascale , Schäfer Ralf , Bergmann Nora , Franken Michael , Ommerborn Michelle Alicia
Published: July 2023

The relationship between sleep bruxism (SB) and psychological distress has been investigated in numerous studies. In general it seems to be problematic that SB is determined with different diagnostic procedures, especially when some of them might not be very valid. The aim of this study was to directly compare the association between psychological distress and SB diagnosed by different accepted methods. In a sample of N = 45 subjects, possible, probable, and definite SB was determined. Psychological distress was measured using the global severity index (GSI) of the Symptom-Checklist-90-Standard. Statistical analysis included group comparisons and correlation analyses. The GSI did not differ significantly between subjects with and without SB, regardless of the underlying diagnostic classification. However, a deeper analysis of specific variables reveals that subjective and clinical SB-specific criteria have a higher correlation with psychological distress. Variables of instrumental methods such as the SB index of the polysomnographic (PSG) examination show almost no correlation with psychological distress. Possibly, non-instrumental methods (self-assessment and clinical examination) capture more psychological components related to SB, such as somatization tendencies. Original SB activity like grinding and muscle contraction of instrumental methods (polysomnography and new diagnostic sheet) shows no correlation with psychological distress.