bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case of hypertensive nephropathy who died of piperacillin- tazobactam induced immune hemolytic anemia which aggravated renal dysfunction: complete follow-up of serology and disease course
Authors: Wu Yuanjun , Wu Yong , Guo Ganping , Zeng Jiajun , Liu Yan , Wu Yueqin
Published: January 2022

Background: Severe drug-induced immune hemolytic anaemia (DIIHA) cases leading to death are very rare. Among the reported cases of DIIHA, the serological characteristics and course of the disease are rarely described completely. Piperacillin is a semi-synthetic penicillin against pseudomonas widely used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is one of the most common drugs that cause DIIHA. Methods: In this study, a 79-year-old male patient with hypertensive nephropathy who developed severe hemolytic anemia during intravenous piperacillin-tazobactam anti-infective treatment due to lung infection, and worsened renal function. Serological tests included direct antiglobulin test (DAT), acid elution test, irregular red blood cell (RBC) antibody detection, and the drug-dependent antibodies associated with piperacillin or tazobactam were detected by the standard methods for the detection of drug-dependent antibodies both in the presence of soluble drug and with drug-coated RBCs. Fully described the patient's course of disease and the serological changes after stopping the administration of piperacillin-tazobactam.Results: Serological tests showed that the results of DAT for anti-IgG was positive (4+) and anti-C3d was negative. The IgG piperacillin-dependent antibodies (the highest titer reached 128) were detected in the plasma incubated with O-type RBCs and 3 mg/mL piperacillin. But the plasma or the acid eluent incubated with piperacillin-coated RBCs, or the acid eluent incubated with O-type RBCs and 3 mg/mL piperacillin did not detect antibodies. The patient was diagnosed as piperacillin-induced DIIHA. Although blood transfusion and continuous renal replacement therapy were given, the patient still died of multiple organ failure 15 days after the administration of piperacillin-tazobactam was stopped.Conclusions: DIIHA caused by piperacillin exacerbated renal damage and was an important cause of the patient's eventual death from multiple organ failure. Which has helped to deepen the understanding of DIIHA and draw lessons from it.
GW-2974 and SCH-442416 modulators of tyrosine-kinase and adenosine receptors can also stabilize human telomeric G-quadruplex DNA: Insights into their anticancer effect
Authors: Salem Alaa A. , Haty Ismail El , Ghattas Mohammad A
Published: January 2022

GW-2974 is a potent inhibitor for the tyrosine kinase receptor. It inhibits EGFR and ErbB-2 in tumor cells with high selectivity towards malignant over normal cells. SCH-442416 is a potent antagonist for adenosine receptor with high selectivity towards human A2a receptor over other adenosine receptors. The two compounds were reported to possess antitumor properties. In this work, we studied the stabilization of human telomeric G-quadruplex DNA by GW-2974 and SCH-442416, as a probable underlying mechanism for their anticancer effects. Interactions of human telomeric G-quadruplex DNA - sequence AG3(TTAGGG)3 – with both compounds were studied using UV-Vis, fluorescence quenching, melting temperature, circular dichroism and molecular docking techniques. Results obtained from absorption, fluorescence and CD indicated that GW2974 and SCH-442416 interacted with G-quadruplex through intercalation binding modes on two types of dependent binding sites. Binding affinities of 1.3x108 - 1.72x106 M-1 and of 1.55x107 - 3.74x105 M-1 were respectively obtained for GW-2974 for SCH-442416. An average number of binding sites between 1 and 2 was obtained for both compounds. The melting temperature curves indicated that complexations of both compounds to G-quadruplex DNA have respectively stabilized it by ΔTm = 9.9 oC and 9.6 oC, relative non-complexed G-quadruplex DNA. Increasing the molar ratios of GW-2974 or SCH-442416 relative to G-quadruplex DNA over 1:1 has shown to destabilized G-quadruplex DNA. Our selectivity experiment indicated 4.7- and 4.0-folds better selectivity for GW-2974 and SCH-442516 towards G-quadruplex DNA over ds-DNA, respectively. The two compounds have also proved to selectively bind and stabilize G-quadruplex DNA over calf thymus duplex ct-DNA. In silico molecular docking indicated exothermic intercalation bindings on two sites of the G-quadruplex DNA These results supported our hypothesis that both GW-2974 and SCH-442416 strongly stabilize human telomeric G-quadruplex DNA in additions to modulating tyrosine-kinase and adenosine receptors. Consequently, stabilizing G-quadruplex DNA could contribute to the mechanism of their anticancer activity.
ArticleInsulin resistance and cardiometabolic indexes: a comparison of gender-related differences in working-age subjects with overweight and obesity
Authors: Vigna Luisella , Tirelli Amedea Silvia , Gaggini Melania , Piazza Salvina Di , Tomaino Laura , Turolo Stefano , Moroncini Gianluca , Chatzianagnostou Kyriazoula , Bamonti Fabrizia , Vassalle Cristina
Published: January 2022

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate indexes of insulin resistance and cardiometabolic risk in a large population of workers with overweight or obesity, evidencing possible gender-related differences, in order to identify a possible efficient, cheap and simple strategy to apply in clinical practice of workers surveillance. Methods: The evaluation of IR and cardiometabolic risk indexes (HOMA, QUICKI, Ty/HDLC, TyG, insuTAG Castelli risk indexes 1 and 2, non-HDLC, TRL-C, AIP, and VAI) was performed in a population of 1195 working-age subjects with overweight or obesity (322 males, mean age 49±11 years). Results: The prevalence of all IR and cardiometabolic risk was higher among males for all indices.Aging, waist circumference, BMI, blood pressure, glucose, CRP, fibrinogen and uric acid were correlated more frequently with IR/cardiometabolic indexes in women, homocysteine in men. The percent of the workers identified as insulin resistant, IR+, or at higher cardiometabolic risk greatly vary according to the different index used.atly varied according to the different index used to measure risk. Conclusion: With a small group of biomarkers and anthropometric measures (fasting glucose and insulin, lipid profile, BMI and waist circumference) is possible to calculate a number of IR/cardiometabolic indexes, which likely mirror different pathophysiological aspects helping in a personalized evaluation of IR and cardiometabolic risk.
Introduction of Advanced Practice Physiotherapy in Dutch Primary Care is a Search for Possibilities, Added Value, and Mutual Trust; A Qualitative Study Among Advanced Practice Physiotherapist and General Practitioners.
Authors: Pellekooren Sylvia , Donker Marianne , Reijnders Eddy , Msc Lamyae Boutalab , Ostelo Raymond , Tulder Maurits , Pool-Goudzwaard Annelies
Published: January 2022

Background: Despite the increasing deployment and added value of Advanced Practitioner in Physiotherapy (APP) in musculoskeletal care internationally, APP is not widely accepted in Dutch primary care yet. This may be due to constraints in the implementation of APP within the Dutch health care system. The aim of this study was to explore experiences and perceptions of APP and General Practitioners (GP) in implementing APP in Dutch primary care. Methods: This was an explorative and interpretive qualitative study among 13 APPs and 3 GPs that were in various stages of implementing an APP care model. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from January to March 2021. The topic list was based on existing literature, personal input of researchers, and the Constellation Approach framework. Data were analysed using a thematic inductive approach.Results: Four main themes emerged from the data; 1) The start-up of an APP practice requires trust and clear added value for the GP, 2) Starting APP must be strongly supported by GP, 3) Positioning of APP is still unclear, and 4) Ownership of patients with musculoskeletal complaints. These four themes put forward perceived difficulties in gaining trust, lack of clarity regarding the added value of APP, ambiguity of the APP’s professional profile and positioning, lack of reimbursement structure, and APP’s struggle in seeking balance with current care. Conclusion: This study shows that the implementation of an APP model of care is challenging. The deployment of APP does not sufficiently align with the core values of GPs, and GPs seem reluctant to hand-over some control over patient care to APPs. APP does not appear to have ownership of the implementation, given its strong dependence on the practice, values and needs of the GP.Trial registration: Ethical approval is obtained from the Medical Ethics Committee of the VU University Medical Centre in Amsterdam; reference number 2020.17. All participants were asked written informed consent before participating in this study.
A mixed-method study exploring experiences, perceptions, and acceptability of using a Safe Delivery mHealth Application in two district hospitals in Rwanda
Authors: Nishimwe Aurore , Conco Daphney Nozizwe , Nyssen Marc , Ibisomi Latifat
Published: January 2022

Background: Innovative use of mobile health (mHealth) technology in timely management of childbirth complications is a promising strategy, but its evidence base is limited. The Safe Delivery mHealth Application (SDA) is one of the recent mhealth applications (loaded in smartphones) which is a clinical decision support and training tool for basic emergency obstetric and newborn care (BEmONC). This paper describes, the health providers’ experiences, perceptions, and acceptability of using the SDA, as well as the perceptions of key stakeholders. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was utilized. Quantitative methods consisted of a self-reported acceptability survey, administered to 54 nurses and midwives, including questions on their usage and perceptions of the SDA. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the survey data. Qualitative methods included two focus group discussions with 24 nurses and midwives, and six key informant interviews with stakeholders (maternity matrons, responsible for maternal and child health, and district hospital managers). Thematic analysis was performed and selected quotations used to illustrate themes. The study took place in two district hospitals in Rwanda.Results: Quantitative results found that 31 (57.4%) participants used the SDA four to six times per week. Many participants felt more confident (53.7%) and better at their job (40.7%) since having the SDA. Likert scale survey responses (1-5, 1 =Strongly Disagree, 5 =Strongly Agree) indicated general agreement that SDA is easy to use (Mean =4.46), is an effective decision support tool (4.63), and training tool (4.65). Qualitative results included themes on perceived usefulness; professional growth acquired through the use of the SDA; SDA, an empowering, intuitive, and user-friendly technology; desired SDA features and functions; benefits of SDA as perceived by key informants, and future use of the SDA. Conclusion: The nurses and midwives perceive the SDA as having improved their ability to manage childbirth complications. Key stakeholders also perceive the SDA as a useful tool with a reasonable cost and recommend its implementation in routine practices. This study deepens the understanding of the potential benefits of mHealth such as the SDA in low-income settings, like Rwanda. It also provides more evidence on the impact of mHealth in assuring quality BEmONC.
The Effect of Educational Intervention on Health Literacy, Self-efficacy and Quality of Life in Suburban Women of Mashhad
Authors: Khandehroo Mansooreh , Peyman Nooshin , aval Mahdi gholian , Tehrani Hadi
Published: January 2022

BackgroundHealth literacy is one of the important factors to improve menopausal quality of life that Proper and timely education and tailored to the needs of individuals, caused to improve quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the effect of educational intervention on health literacy, self-efficacy, and quality of life in women.MethodThis quasi-experimental study with the control group was performed on 107 suburban women aged 40-60 years during 2021-2022. Participants were randomly selected by substituting and selected avenue number 3 as the experimental group and 6 as the control group. instruments of this study were Iranian Health Literacy and Scherer Self-Efficacy and Menopausal Quality of Life Questionnaires. The educational intervention was performed in 4 training sessions of 95 minutes once a week.Questionnaires were completed before training, immediately after training, and 3 months later. Data were analyzed by SPSS21 and independent t-test, Kruscalovalis, and linear regression tests.ResultsThe mean score of health literacy in the experimental group before intervention (9 ± 11.36) and immediately after the intervention (20.65 ± 11.41) and three months after the intervention (21.09 ± 11.78) was the mean score of self-efficacy in the experimental group before the intervention (13.72 ± 44.73) and immediately after the intervention (54.76 ± 14.36) and three months after the intervention (55.96 ±14.80). The mean quality of life score of the experimental group was (27.33 ± 80), immediately after the intervention (62.66 ± 22.45) and 3 months after the intervention (51.12 ± 23.57).ConclusionThis study obtain that educational interventions improve quality of life, health literacy, and self-efficacy. The mean score of quality of life, health literacy, and self-efficacy increased, immediately after training and 3 months later in the experimental group. The difference between the experimental and control groups was significant. There was a positive relationship between quality of life and education, job, and income. This relationship was also positive and significant in self-efficacy and health literacy. Three months after the intervention, there was a significant relationship between health literacy and quality of life.
Circular stapling anastomosis with indocyanine green fluorescence imaging for cervical esophagogastric anastomosis after thoracoscopic esophagectomy: A propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Shishido Yuji , Matsunaga Tomoyuki , Makinoya Masahiro , Miyauchi Wataru , Shimizu Shota , Miyatani Kozo , Uejima Chihiro , Morimoto Masaki , Murakami Yuki , Hanaki Takehiko , Kihara Kyoichi , Yamamoto Manabu , Tokuyasu Naruo , Takano Shuichi , Sakamoto Teruhisa , Saito Hiroaki , Hasegawa Toshimichi , Fujiwara Yoshiyuki
Published: January 2022

Background: Thoracoscopic esophagectomy has been widely used worldwide as a curative surgery for esophageal cancer, but complications, such as anastomotic leakage and stenosis remain a major concern. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of circular stapling anastomosis with indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging, which was standardized for cervical esophagogastric anastomosis after thoracoscopic esophagectomy.Methods: In total, 121 patients with esophageal cancer who underwent thoracoscopic esophagectomy with radical lymph node dissection and cervical esophagogastric anastomosis between November 2009 and December 2020 at Tottori University Hospital were enrolled in this study. Patients who underwent surgery before the anastomotic method was standardized were included in the classical group (n = 82), and patients who underwent surgery after standardization were included in the ICG circular group (n = 39). We compared the short-term postoperative outcomes, including anastomotic complications, between the two groups using propensity matched analysis, and evaluated the risk factors for anastomotic leakage using logistic regression analyses.Results: Of 121 patients, 33 were respectively included in each group after propensity score matching. The clinicopathological characteristics of patients between the two groups did not differ after matching. In perioperative outcomes, a significantly higher proportion of patients who underwent surgery using the laparoscopic approach (P < 0.001) and narrow gastric tube (P = 0.003), as well as those who had a lower volume of blood loss (P = 0.009) in the ICG circular group were seen after matching. Moreover, the ICG circular group had a significantly lower incidence of anastomotic leakage (39% vs. 9%, P = 0.004) and anastomotic stenosis (46% vs. 21%, P = 0.037) and a shorter postoperative hospital stay (30 vs. 20 days, P < 0.001) than the classical group. In the multivariate analysis, anastomotic method was an independent risk factor for anastomotic leakage after thoracoscopic esophagectomy (P = 0.013).Conclusions: Circular stapling anastomosis with ICG fluorescence imaging is effective in reducing complications including anastomotic leakage and stenosis.
Phylogenies From Unaligned Whole Genomes Using Sequence Environments of Amino Acid Residues
Authors: Aledo Juan Carlos
Published: January 2022

Alignment-free methods for sequence comparison and phylogeny inference have attracted a great deal of attention in recent years. Several algorithms have been implemented in diverse software packages. Despite the great number of existing methods, most of them are based on word statistics. Although they propose different filtering and weighting strategies and explore different metrics, their performance may be limited by the phylogenetic signal preserved in these words. Herein, we present a different approach based on the species-specific amino acid neighborhood preferences. These differential preferences can be assessed in the context of vector spaces. In this way, a distance-based method to build phylogenies has been developed and implemented into an easy-to-use R package. Tests run on real-world datasets show that this method can reconstruct phylogenetic relationships with high accuracy, and often outperforms other alignment-free approaches. Furthermore, we present evidence that the new method can perform reliably on datasets formed by non-orthologous protein sequences, that is, the method not only does not require the identification of orthologous proteins, but also does not require their presence in the analyzed dataset. These results suggest that the neighborhood preference of amino acids conveys a phylogenetic signal that may be of great utility in phylogenomics.
A Novel Method for Basic Reproduction Ratio of a Size-Structured Population Model with Delay
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Abbas Syed , Tridane Abdessamad
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we discuss a size-structured population model with a delay in birth process. The focus is to discuss the existence and uniqueness results along with basic reproduction ratio ( R 0 ). The birth function h is not necessarily a Ricker type of function but expression of R 0 obtained in this paper works for a more general function h . This analysis covers a larger class of models. The problem is converted into an abstract form and then theory of semigroup is used to obtain the results. The basic reproduction number is constructed as spectral radius of the next generation operator. The form for basic reproduction ratio is very general and can be applied to other problems as well. We also solve our model numerically to study the effect of delay on population distribution.
Practical Utility of Liver Segmentation Techniques in Clinical Surgeries and Interventions
Authors: Dakua Sarada Prasad , Ansari Mohammed Yusuf , Abdalla Alhusain , Ansari Mohammed Yaqoob , Ansari Mohammed Ishaq , Malluhi Byanne , Mohanty Snigdha , Mishra Subhashree , Singh Sudhansu Sekhar , Balakrishnan Shidin , Abinahed Julien , Al-Ansari Abdulla
Published: January 2022

Medical images (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT)) provide critical information to the clinicians in order to diagnose pathology and plan interventions. Image segmentation is the first and foremost step taken by the clinicians while optimizing analytic diagnosis and treatment planning for interventions (e.g., transplantation and complete resection) and therapeutic procedures (e.g., radiotherapy, PVE, and embolization approaches), especially in hepatocellular carcinoma. Thus, segmentation techniques certainly impact the diagnosis and treatment outcomes. This paper studies the literature during the year 2012 until 2021 and reviews the segmentation methods classifying them into three categories based on their clinical utility (i.e., surgical and radiological interventions). The classification is based on the parameters such as precision, accuracy, location, liver condition, and other clinical considerations.
Genetic analysis of novel resistance sources and genome-wide association mapping identified novel QTLs for resistance to Zymoseptoria tritici, the causal agent of septoria tritici blotch in wheat
Authors: Mahboubi Mozghan , Talebi Reza , Mehrabi Rahim , Naji Amir Mohammad , Maccaferri Marco , Kema Gert H.J.
Published: January 2022

Septoria tritici blotch (STB) caused by Zymoseptoria tritici is one of the most important foliar diseases of wheat causing significant yield losses worldwide. In this study, a panel of bread wheat genotypes comprised 185 globally diverse genotypes were tested against 10 Z. tritici isolates at the seedling stage. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) using high-throughput DArTseq markers was performed and further gene expression analysis of significant markers trait association (MTAs) associated with resistance to STB was analyzed. Disease severity level showed significant differences among wheat genotypes for resistance to different Z. tritici isolates. We found novel landrace genotypes that showed highly resistance spectra to all tested isolates. GWAS analysis resulted in 19 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for resistance to STB that were located on 14 chromosomes. Overall, 14 QTLs were overlapped with previously known QTLs or resistance genes, as well as five potentially novel QTLs on chromosomes 1A, 4A, 5B, 5D and 6D. Identified novel resistance sources and also novel QTLs for resistance to different Z. tritici isolates can use for pyramiding and development of durable resistance cultivars in future wheat breeding programs.
On the Suitability of Phillipsite-chabazite Zeolitite Rock for Ammonia Uptake in Water. Some General Zeolite Features and a Case Study From the Pescara River (Italy)
Authors: NOVEMBRE DANIELA , GIMENO DOMINGO , CALISTA MONIA , MANCINELLI VANIA , MICCADEI ENRICO
Published: January 2022

Ionic exchange tests have been performed on superficial wastewaters to remove ammonia by the use of a volcanic zeolitized rock from Lazio Region (Central Italy). The zeolitite (natural zeolite) is characterized by chabazite, phillipsite and minor amounts of sanidine, leucite and analcime. After preliminary column experiments in laboratory focused to determine the saturation time of the zeolitite, a pilot plant was built up on a little water course near the area of San Giustino channel (Abruzzo Region, Central Italy). Wastewaters, characterised by starting ammonia value ranging between 5 and 120 mg/l, were filtered with a zeolitic bed. The first experimental results indicate a positive ammonia reduction of about 80-90% and, in all cases, NH4+ concentration values under the EU law limits. A main purpose of this paper is to evidence that most of studies published on uptake of ammonia by means of zeolitite lead with clinoptilolite-dominant zeolitite despite the large availability and best performance of phillipsite-chabazite zeolites. Last but not least, a large number of published studies are of difficult comparison because of poor characterization of the zeolitite used.
What implementation strategies and outcome measures are used to transform health care organizations into learning health systems? A mixed methods review protocol
Authors: Somerville Mari , Cassidy Christine , Curran Janet , Rothfus Melissa , Sinclair Douglas , Rose Annette Elliot
Published: January 2022

Background

A learning health system framework provides an opportunity for health system restructuring to provide value-based health care. However, there is little evidence showing how to effectively implement a learning health system in practice.
Objective

A mixed methods review is proposed to identify and synthesize the existing evidence on effective implementation strategies and outcomes of LHS in an international context.
Methods

A mixed methods systematic review will be conducted following methodological guidance from JBI and PRISMA reporting guidelines. Six databases (CINAHL, Embase, Medline, PAIS, Scopus and Nursing at Allied Health Database) will be searched for terms related to learning health systems, implementation and evaluation measures. Three reviewers will independently screen the titles, abstracts and full texts of retrieved articles. Studies will be included if they are published in a peer reviewed journal and report on the implementation of a learning health system in any health care setting. Qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods study designs will be considered for inclusion. No restrictions will be placed on language or date of publication. Grey literature, reviews, conference proceedings and dissertations will be excluded. Data will be extracted from included studies using a standardized extraction form. One reviewer will extract all data and a second will verify. Critical appraisal of all included studies will be conducted by two reviewers. A convergent integration approach to data synthesis will be used, where qualitative and quantitative data will be synthesized separately and then integrated to present overarching findings. Data will be presented in tables and narratively.
Conclusion

This review will address a gap in the literature related to implementation of learning health systems. The findings from this review will provide researchers with a better understanding of how to design and implement learning health system interventions. This systematic review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022293348).
“A toy plane in my home office”: Mothers’ perceptions of the reflections of the COVID-19 pandemic on their family relations and children’s play behaviours
Authors: Erbas Aysin Noyan , Seyhan Gamze Bilir , Ogul İrem Gurgah
Published: January 2022

BackgroundCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic which promotes social distance and hygiene measures affected children’s social life and mental health. Very little is currently known about how the pandemic changed the children’s family relations and plays. The aim of this study is to reveal the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on family relations and young children’s play behaviors.MethodsFocus group interview was conducted with five mothers of 36 month-old children. Data were analyzed using content analysis.ResultsAnalysis revealed three main themes that (i) understanding the COVID-19, (ii) reflections of the COVID-19 outbreak on the family relations, (iii) reflections of the COVID-19 outbreak on the children’s play and play materials. Children had knowledge about COVID-19 with exposure to news and changing home routines and from explanations of family members. Pandemic restrictions had positive and negative impacts on the family relations. Satisfaction from parenting, being together with family members and children’s receiving more input from their parents and environment were evaluated as positive impacts of pandemic restrictions while parents’ feeling psychologically overwhelmed, children’s exposing oppressive behaviors and having developmental regression reflected to the family relationships negatively. Children’s plays included many concepts related to COVID-19. They experienced the restriction of their outdoor play and bringing some equipments for parks to provide hygiene. There was an increase in screen interaction and the number of toys. Children who deprived from their peers learned how they can interact and play with their peers without any contact.ConclusionsPandemic outbreak had a wide range of negative and positive consequences on family life practices, parents’ emotional well-being, children’s play patterns. These findings can help find effective ways to conserve and promote children’s and their families’ health in pandemic and recovery process.
Product Comparison for Slow and Fast Pyrolysis of Flax Shive
Authors: Lugovoy Yury V. , Chalov Kirill V. , Stepacheva Antonina , Kositsov Yury Yu. , Sulman Mikhail G.
Published: January 2022

In the current work, a comparison of the composition and properties of products obtained by the slow and fast pyrolysis of flax shive is presented to evaluate the influence of the process mode on the thermal decomposition of agricultural waste. The thermogravimetric studies were carried out to estimate the temperature range of the decomposition of the feedstock main component (cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin) and to choose the pyrolysis temperature. It was found that the slow pyrolysis was found to provide the higher conversion depth of the feedstock resulting in the formation of gaseous and liquid products with higher calorific values (9.65 MJ/m3, and 16.51 MJ/kg respectively). Moreover, the solid residue of the slow pyrolysis was characterized by the higher surface area and narrow pore size distribution in comparison with that obtained by the fast process.
A Multi-step In Vitro Hemocompatibility Testing Protocol Recapitulating the Foreign Body Reaction to Nanocarriers
Authors: Perugini Valeria , Schmid Ruth , Morch Yrr , Texier Isabelle , Brodde Martin , Santin Matteo
Published: January 2022

The development of drug nanocarriers based on polymeric, lipid and ceramic biomaterials has been paving the way to precision medicine where the delivery of poorly soluble active compounds and personalised doses are made possible. However, the nano-size character of these carriers has been demonstrated to have the potential to elicit pathways of the host response different from those of the same biomaterials when engineered as larger size implants and of the drugs, when administered without carrier. Therefore, a specific regulatory framework needs to be made available that can offer robust scientific insights and provide safety data by reliable tests of these novel nano-devices. In this context, the present work presents a multi-step protocol for the in vitro assessment of the hemocompatibility of nanocarriers of different physicochemical properties. Poly (EthylButyl Cyanoacrylate) nanoparticles and lipid-based (LipImage TM 815) nanoparticles of comparable hydrodynamic diameter were tested through a battery of assays using human peripheral blood samples and recapitulating the main pathways of the host response upon systemic administration; i.e. protein interactions, fibrinogen-platelet binding, cytotoxicity and inflammatory response. The data showed the sensitivity and reproducibility of the methods adopted that were also demonstrated to determine individual variability as well as to discriminate between activation of pathways of inflammation and unintended release of inflammatory signalling caused by loss of cell integrity. Therefore, this multi-step testing is proposed as a reliable protocol for NP development and emerging regulatory frameworks.
Fertilization Strategies To Improve Crop Yields and N Use Efficiency Depending on Soil pH in Chinese Cabbage-Maize Rotation
Authors: Xie Jun , Evgenia Blagodatskaya , Zhang Yu , Wang Jie , Wan Yu , Shi Xiao-jun
Published: January 2022

Aims
The efficiency of fertilizer nitrogen (N) use strongly depends on soil pH and affects both agricultural production and environmental pollution control. However, the effect of soil pH on N use efficiency (NUE) remains unclear.
Methods
We compared crop yield, N uptake, NUE, and the N input-output balance in a Chinese cabbage-maize cropping system in a field experiment from 2011 to 2016 along a pH gradient (alkaline (pH 8.32), near-neutral (pH 6.56) and acidic soil (pH 5.91)).
Results
Mineral fertilization had the worst effect in acidic soils, because it significantly decreased soil pH, as well as decreased crop yield, N uptake, and NUE. Combined chicken manure-mineral fertilization was most favorable irrespective of soil pH because it increased soil quality (e.g., high total N and organic C contents) and maintained a neutral soil pH. Chicken manure treatment was most appropriate in acidic soils because it increased pH by 2.03 units, up to 13% crop yield, and increased N uptake and NUE than that in alkaline and near-neutral soils. Under manure treatments, the N surplus was the lowest in acidic soil. Under mineral fertilization, however, the N surplus in acidic soil was the highest.
Conclusions
We conclude that combined organic-mineral fertilization in alkaline, near-neutral, and acidic soils is a promising strategy that not only increases the crop yield, N uptake, and NUE but also decreases the N surplus. Manure fertilization is also recommended as an efficient strategy in acidic soils to increase crop yield and NUE by improving soil pH.
Preoperative Uric Acid-to-albumin Ratio as a New Indicator for Predicting Long-term Prognosis in Patients With Acute Type a Aortic Dissection
Authors: Wang Xue , Deng Chao , Guo Fengwei , Zhong Liang , Li Ming , Xue Yanbo , Ma Qiong , Zheng Xiaopu , Gao Heng
Published: January 2022

Objectives— We aimed to analyze the ability of the preoperative uric acid-to-albumin ratio (UAR) to predict the postoperative long-term mortality of patients with type A AAD.Methods —A total of 289 patients with type A AAD who were enrolled in this study. First, all patients were divided into two groups: UAR < 9.875 and UAR ≥ 9.875. Furthermore, according to whether death occurred after one year after surgery, the patients were divided into the non-survival and survival groups. Univariable and multivariable COX regression analyses were conducted to identify the independent risk factors for long-term death in patients with type A AAD. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to assess the values of these indices in predicting postoperative mortality. Results— Age, hypertension, albumin content, UAR, and D-dimer content were found to be independent risk factors for mortality. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of UAR was 0.618(HR 1.904, 95% CI, 1.097 to 3.305; P< 0.05), the combination of UAR, age and D-dimer was best for predicting deaths,the area under the AUC of them was 0.751 [HR 1.904,95% CI,0.681 to 0.821; P< 0.05)].Conclusions—In patients with type A AAD, UAR may considered as a new independent risk factor for long-term mortality. a combination of UAR, age, and D-dimer content was a best predictor of deaths.
Effect of early morning awakening in major depressive disorder
Authors: Xu Guohong , Yu Yang , Tang Chaohua , Liu Zishan , Li Xiaoling , Tan Yukang , Mai Xiancong , Li Runyi , Xu Caixia , Xie Guojun , Liang Jiaquan
Published: January 2022

Background Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) usually manifest sleep disturbance. Early morning awakening is more closely related to MDD than other sleep disturbances. Aim The aim of this study was to assess the effect of early morning awakening in the treatment of patients with MDD. Methods Eligible patients were randomly assigned into two groups: early morning awakening and non-early morning awakening group. All patients were assessed using Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), and Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) scores at baseline and the fourth week. Results Twenty-one men and 31 women (mean age 25.13 ±10.67 years) were enrolled. There is a significant main effect of early morning awakening in HAMD (P =0.04) and HAMA (P =0.01) at fourth week after escitalopram treatment. Discussion This trial suggests that early morning awakening may result in statistically and clinically significant delay in the recovery of the MDD but cognitive impairment.
Treatment results for patients with squamous-cell carcinoma of the anus, a single institution retrospective analysis
Authors: Neelis KJ , Kip Django , Speetjens Frank , Linden Yvette van der
Published: January 2022

Background and purpose

To gain insight into the treatment outcomes for anal cancer at a retrospective analysis was performed with a special emphasis on trends in outcome and toxicities over time and on treatment of elderly patients.
Materials and methods

Medical records of 98 consecutive patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the anus of all stages treated with curative intent between 01-01-2009 and 31-12-2018 were analyzed with follow up until 31-12-2020. Standard tumor and pathological lymph node dose were 59.4Gy or 60Gy, elective nodal regions were treated with 45Gy. Radiotherapy techniques in this period evolved from 3D conformal to IMRT and VMAT. In 23 patients electron beams were used.
Results

Median age was 63 years (range 41 – 88), majority female patients (60%). Twenty three patients were > 75 years old. The TNM stages were I, II, IIIA, and IIIB in 18%, 40%, 15% and 27%, fifty-eight % of patients had N0 status. Concurrent mitomycin C and 5-fluoruracil-based chemotherapy was given in 63 patients (64%). Five-year overall survival (OS), disease free survival (DFS), locoregional control (LRC) and colostomy free survival (CFS) were 71%, 80%, 82%, and 82% for the whole group. Results in patients > 75 years of age were not statistically different from those in younger patients. With the introduction of more conformal techniques DFS did not change and toxicities decreased.
Conclusion

Real word treatment outcomes per disease stage were in line with what is reported in literature. Older patients should also be offered treatment with curative intent.
HOXA11-AS1 promotes PD-L1 mediated immune escape and metastasis of hypopharyngeal carcinoma by facilitating the association of PTBP1 with FOSL1
Authors: Zhou Zheng , Liu Qian , Zhang Gehou , Mohammed Diab , Amadou Sani , Tan Guolin , Zhang Xiaowei
Published: January 2022

Background
The metastatic characteristics of hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) led to many diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The identification of functional long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) would contribute to investigate effective strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of HSCC.
Methods
Research was carried out in HSCC tissues and cells. RT-qPCR, western blot, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence assay were used to detect the related gene expression. Flow cytometry was used to measure the percentage of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing and transwell assays were performed to analyze the functional role of HOXA11-AS1. The targeted relationship of FOSL1/PD-L1 promoter was measured by ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assays. RNA pull-down and RIP assays were used to measure the interaction between HOXA11-AS1, FOSL1 and PTBP1. Tumor xenograft study was used to analyze the function of HOXA11-AS1 in vivo.
Results
HOXA11-AS1, PD-L1 and FOSL1 were up-regulated in HSCC, and HOXA11-AS1 was positively correlated with PD-L1. HOXA11-AS1 knockdown upregulated CD8+T cells and the concentration of IFN-γ, while decreased the proliferation, migration and invasion of HSCC cells. FOSL1 bound to PD-L1 promoter and increased its expression. HOXA11-AS1 enhanced the stability of FOSL1 mRNA by binding to PTBP1. Overexpression of HOXA11-AS1 or PTBP1 increased the expression of FOSL1 and PD-L1. Knockdown of PTBP1 blocked the enhancement of HOXA11-AS1 overexpression on FOSL1 and PD-L1 levels. Knockdown of PD-L1 arrested the inhibiting function of HOXA11-AS1 overexpression on CD8+ T cells content, and the promoting effect on cell proliferation and metastasis. Knockdown of HOXA11-AS1 inhibited the immune escape and metastasis through regulating PD-L1 by down-regulating FOSL1 in vivo.
Conclusion
HOXA11-AS1 promoted PD-L1 expression through up-regulating FOSL1 levels by PTBP1, thereby facilitating the immune escape, proliferation and metastasis of HSCC cells.
Echinococcus Granulosus Extracellular Vesicles miRNA Cargo Regulates the Encystation of Protoscoleces via Notch Signaling Pathway in Vitro
Authors: Gao Jian , Zhou Xuan , Liu Ling , Lv Guodong , Hou Qiulian , Zhang Xiaofan , Shen Yujuan
Published: January 2022

Background: Since the protoscolece(PSCs) of Echinococcus granulosus has the characteristics of differentiation into hydatid in the intermediate host, it may be the main cause of secondary hydatid infection and dissemination. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can transfer non-coding RNAs especially small RNAs (miRNAs) into parasite cells to regulate their gene expression. However, developmental pathway-related miRNAs such as the Notch signaling pathway loaded by EVs are not fully characterized. Therefore, the current study aimed to screen mRNA-miRNA interaction genes involved in the Notch signaling pathway during the encystation of E. g in vitro, and observe their expression changes in the parasite and extracellular vesicles(EVs).Methods: The miRNA and mRNA profiles of PSCs and microcysts (MCs) of E. g were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing respectively. Differential mRNAs between PSCs and MCs were overlapped with mRNAs which were predicted from differential miRNAs between PSCs and MCs. Functions of candidate differential mRNAs were predicted using Gene Ontology enrichment, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes, and Genomes pathway analysis. The miRNA-mRNA subnetwork related to the Notch signaling pathway was established. The expression of Notch pathway-related miRNAs and its target mRNAs in the worms and EVs at different encystation time points by Quantitative Reverse Transcription–Polymerase Chain Reaction(qRT-PCR).Results: 9439 mRNAs were predicted from 39 differential miRNAs between PSCs and MCs and overlapped with 1586 differential mRNAs in the transcriptome library, 1445 differential mRNAs were screened out and clustered into 94 metabolic pathways. 5 differential miRNAs corresponding to 4 target mRNAs were enriched in the Notch signaling pathway, especially containing a new unknown miRNA egl-m0694-3p. The 4 target mRNAs, EgrG_000892700, EgrG_001029400, EgrG_001081400 and EgrG_000465800 were respectively annotated as TACE, CSL, CtBP, and Delta in the Notch signaling pathway. EgrG_000892700, which was annotated as ADAM17 / TACE in the Notch signaling pathway, was down-regulated during encystation process of PSCs. Three miRNAs, egr-miR-4989-3p, egr-miR-9-3p and egr-miR-277a-3p might have negative regulatory effects on EgrG_000892700. The expressions of egr-miR-4989-3p and egr-miR-277a-3p in EVs of MCs were nearly 5 times that of PSCs.Conclusions: EVs may negatively regulate the expression of EgrG_000892700 in worms through continuous targeting of egr-miR-4989-3p and egr-miR-277a-3p, inhibit the transcription of the Notch signaling pathway, and may participate in the regulation of encystation of E. granulosus.
Sulfamethoxazole: Molecular Docking and Crystal Structure Prediction
Authors: Arputharaj David Stephen , Meenashi Rajasekaran , Pannipara Mehboobali , Al-Sehemi Abdullah Godran , rahman Mohamed Mustafa Abdul
Published: January 2022

The conformational stability of sulfonamide derivatives was examined in the active site of Dihydropteroate synthase enzyme. The best docked conformer was identified via molecular docking approach. Possible stable packing of best docked conformer was predicted and evaluated from the intermolecular interactions. Further, the interactions of stable conformer with the active site residue was characterized by charge density analysis based on Bader’s Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecule.
dGLYAT modulates Gadd45-mediated JNK activation and cell invasion
Authors: Xue Lei , Xu Meng , Ren Pu , Tian Juhui , Xiao Lisha , Hu Ping , Chen Ping , Xie Xin , Li Wenzhe
Published: January 2022

Background: Cell invasion is a crucial step of tumor metastasis, finding new regulators of which offers potential drug targets for cancer therapy. Aberrant GLYAT expression is associated with human cancers, yet its role in cancer remains unknown. This study aims to understand the function and mechanism of Drosophila GLYAT in cell invasion.Results: We found that dGLYAT regulates Gadd45-mediated JNK pathway activation and cell invasion. Firstly, loss of dGLYAT suppressed scrib depletion- or Egr overexpression-induced JNK pathway activation and invasive cell migration. Secondary, mRNA-seq analysis identified Gadd45 as a potential transcriptional target of dGLYAT, as depletion of dGLYAT decreased Gadd45 mRNA level. Finally, Gadd45 knockdown suppressed scrib depletion-induced JNK pathway activation and cell invasion. Conclusions: These evidences reveal the role of dGLYAT and Gadd45 in cell polarity disruption-induced JNK-dependent cell invasion, and provid insight for the roles of their human homologs in cancers.
Student’s Academic Performance Prediction – A Review
Authors: Sudais Muhammad , Asad Danish
Published: January 2022

Providing quality education to students is the main objective of higher education institutions. The need of identifying students with weak performances has been a rising problem and most teachers have relied on calculating the average of exam grades. The main objective of our project is to predict and identify the students who might fail in semester examinations. This would prove helpful for teachers in providing additional assistance to such students. This review is conducted to find out how different researchers have approached this problem, what the outcomes of their study are and how it can help us in improving the performance of students. This review shows that machine learning, clustering proves useful in predictions, but there is a lot more work to be done using this technology.
Effects of institutionalizing limited obstetric ultrasound services on utilization of maternal and neonatal health services: a pre-post study
Authors: Abawollo Hailemariam Segni , Argaw Mesele Damte , Tsegaye Zergu Tafesse , Beshir Ismael Ali , Guteta Asfaw Adugna , Heyi Atrie Fekadu , Mengesha Birhan Tenaw , Mamo Tsega Teferi , Gebremedhin Zenawork Kassahun , Damte Heran Demise , Kibret Mengistu Asnake , Desta Binyam Fekadu
Published: January 2022

Background
A minimum of one ultrasound scan is recommended for all pregnant women before the 24th week of gestation. In Ethiopia, there is a shortage of skilled manpower to provide these services. Currently, trained mid-level providers are providing the services at the primary healthcare level.
Methods
A pre and post intervention observational study was conducted to understand maternal health service utilization rates before and after institutionalizing Vscan access limited obstetric ultrasound services between 2017 and 2020.
Results
The observed monthly increase on the mean rank of first ANC visits after the introduction of Vscan limited obstetric ultrasound services shows a statistically significant difference at KW-ANOVA H (3) =17.09, P=0.001. The mean rank of fourth ANC utilization increment shows statistically significant difference at KW- ANOVA H (3) =16.24, P=0.001. The observed mean rank in skilled birth attendance shows a statistically significant positive difference using KW-ANOVA H (3) =23.6, P<0.001. The mean rank of increased utilization in postnatal care shows a statistically significant difference using KW-ANOVA H (3) =17.79, P<0.001.
Conclusion
The introduction of limited obstetric ultrasound services by trained mid-level providers at primary healthcare levels was found to have improved the utilization of antenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and postnatal care services. It is recommended that limited obstetric ultrasound services be scaled up, and a further comparative study between facilities with and without ultrasound services be conducted to assess the effect of the introduction of the services on maternal and perinatal outcomes.