bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"Predict the relationship between pesticide genotoxicity and breast cancer risk in South Indian women in vitro and in vivo Experiments"
Authors: Subramani Sasikala , Anto Minu Jenifer , M M.Sakthivel , K Velavan , Ramasamy Sivasamy
Published: February 2022

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer-related cause of death in women. BC is a multi-step process involving a range of cell types, and preventing it is still a difficult task all over the world. Agriculture is a massive industry that employs the majority of the world's population. Pesticides are a class of compounds with specific qualities that are used to remove pests. However, it occasionally exhibits severe biological activities in non-target creatures such as humans. About 504 patients and control samples were checked for pesticide levels and DNA Damage responsible for breast cancer, which is confirmed by checking the in vitro and in vivo experiments of DNA Damage. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. The results show positive involvement of breast cancer and pesticide risk. The relationship between pesticide and breast cancer due to DNA Damage is proved in this study. Further clinical implication of this study is to be explored to develop therapeutic approaches in treating the same.
Deposition of carbon from methane on manganese sources
Authors: Dalaker Halvor , Gjøvik Jonas Einan , Ringdalen Eli
Published: February 2022

Carbon has been deposited on HCFeMn slag from methane-containing gas with and without CO2, creating C-MnO composites and giving a hydrogen-rich off-gas as a by-product. The maximum deposited amount corresponds to 37±4% of the carbon required for reduction of all manganese in the slag to metallic Mn. This was achieved at 1100 °C with a H2-concentration in the off gas of 76%. Temperature was an important parameter. At 790 °C, no deposited carbon was detected, at temperatures ≥1000 °C, deposition increased with temperature. A lower gas-flow leads to more methane decomposition.Experiments with CO2 in the process gas gave less deposited carbon than other experiments. This could be caused by dilution of methane or chemical reactions involving CO2, or a combination. Investigations of fines formation indicate that the deposited carbon sticks well to the HCFeMn-slag, and would not fall off easily during transport and handling. This demonstrates that biogas can potentially be a non-fossil source of carbon in manganese production.
Spatial Heterogeneity Analysis and Source Identification of Heavy Metals in Soil: A Case Study of Chongqing, Southwest China
Authors: Chen Wende , Cai Yankun , Zhu Kun , Wei Jun , Lu Yutian
Published: February 2022

Background: Heavy metal pollution in urban soil is an important indicator of environmental pollution. Selecting the best interpolation method can accurately reflect the distribution characteristics and pollution characteristics of heavy metals in soil. Source analysis and identification of heavy metals in soil can reveal the important content of heavy metal pollution in soil, which is conducive to the implementation of effective management and protection strategies.Materials and methods: In this study, the grid sampling at 40 cm depth was conducted in the whole study area using the principle of uniform sampling, and the characteristics of As, Cu and Mn in the soil of the main urban area of Chongqing in southwestern China were investigated. The interpolation accuracy and results of ordinary Kriging method (OK), inverse distance weighting method ( IDW ), local polynomial method ( LPI ) and radial basis function method ( RBF ) for three elements were analyzed and compared, and the main sources of three heavy metals were studied.Results: The results showed that As(5.802 mg·kg − 1), Cu (23.992 mg·kg −1) and Mn(573.316 mg·kg −1) in the soil of the study area were all moderate variations. The prediction smoothing effect of LPI and OK methods on the three metals is strong, which cannot reflect the local point source pollution information. The interpolation results of IDW method and RBF method largely retain the maximum and minimum information of element content. The results of classification and regression analysis confirmed the main sources of heavy metals: population density mainly affected Cu (0.539), slope mainly affected Mn (0.206), and water quality mainly affected As (0.453).Conclusions: The results of this study provide a reference for the formulation of scientific decisions and strategies. Effective soil heavy metal pollution control and management strategies should be developed to ensure the quality of urban soil environment.
Sensible and latent heat flow of Japanese quails kept in different thermal environments
Authors: Júnior Joab Jorge Leite de Matos , Furtado Dermeval Araújo , Ribeiro Neila Lidiany , Marques Jordânio Inácio , Leite Patrício Gomes , Nascimento José Wallace Barbosa do , Rodrigues Valéria Pereira , Neto José Pinheiro Lopes , Rodrigues Ladyanne Raia , Santos Severino Guilherme Caetano Gonçalves dos
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to estimate the heat flux through sensitive mechanisms and respiratory evaporation of Japanese quails kept in thermoneutral and warm environments, using simple environmental and physiological measures. 192 nine-week-old quails were used, distributed in a completely randomized design at two temperatures (T1 = 24 °C and T2 = 32 °C), with 12 replicates of eight birds each, with an experimental period of 63 days, divided into three 21-day periods. Physiological measurements of respiratory rate (RR), cloacal temperature (TC) and body surface temperature (TS) were measured twice a week. The behavior of the energy balance in the climatic chambers was obtained using the total thermal energy exchanges per unit surface area of ​​the birds, derived from the sum of sensible (radiation and convection) and latent heat exchanges. Respiratory rate (P<.0001), surface temperature (P<.0001) and cloacal temperature (P=0.0047) were higher in the 32 °C environment. The expired air temperature (P<.0001) and heat loss by respiratory evaporation (P<.0001) showed higher values ​​when the quails were in an environment of 32 °C, while the heat losses by convection (P<.0001) and radiation (P<.0001) were higher in a thermal comfort environment. In Japanese quails kept in a controlled environment, sensible heat dissipation by convection is the main way to eliminate excess thermal energy, when the air temperature is up to 32 ºC.
To Be or Not To Be: Technical and Cost Implications of Having a Confirmed Diagnosis of Lung Cancer (or not) Before Surgery
Authors: Guzman Rudith , Grando Leandro , Sánchez-Lorente David , Boada Marc , Quiroga Nestor , Paglialunga Pablo , Molins Laureano , Guirao Angela , Agusti Alvar , Guerrero Carlos
Published: February 2022

Objective: To compare the costs and length of hospital stay between patients with a confirmed lung cancer (LC) diagnosis before surgery versus those without confirmed diagnosis. Methods: Retrospective and single center study conducted on consecutive patients who underwent a LC surgical procedure, with or without a pathologically confirmed LC diagnosis before surgery, between March 2017 and December 2019. The main outcomes were costs and length of hospital stay (LOHS). Results: Among the 269 screened patients, 254 met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were included in the analysis, 196 (77.2%) with confirmed LC diagnosis before surgery and 58 (22.8%) without it. Unadjusted cost was significantly lower in patients who underwent surgery without histopathological diagnosis before surgery than in those who underwent surgery with a histopathological diagnosis before surgery (Hodges-Lehmann median difference: -1,280.5 €; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1,682.1 to -899.4 €, p<0.0001). LOHS was significantly shorter in patients without a previous diagnosis of LC before surgery (4.0 [95%CI: 3.0 - 4.0] vs. 5.0 [95% CI: 5.0 - 6.0] days, p<0.0001). Median (95% CI) LOHS was significantly lower in patients who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopy (4.0 [95% CI 4.0 -4.0] days) than in those who underwent open-surgery (6.0 [95% CI 5.0 - 6.0] days, p<0.0001). Conclusions: Patients who went into the operating-room without a previous confirmed diagnosis of LC resulted in lower direct costs, shorter LOHS, and increased use of VATS.
Bacteria spatial tracking in Urban Park soils with MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry and Specific PCR
Authors: Segura-Garcia Jaume , Arnal Diego , Moya Celeste , Filippelli Luigi , Maicas Sergi
Published: February 2022

Urban parks constitute one of the main leisure areas, especially for the most vulnerable people in our society, children and the elderly Contact with soils can be a source of risk, so establishing its microbiological quality is interesting. The aim of this work is to map the spatial distribution of potential dangerous enterobacteria but also biorremediation useful (lipase producers) isolates from soils in a urban park in area of Valencia (Spain). To this end, our team has collected 25 samples of soil and isolated 500 microorganisms, using a mobile application to collect information of the soil samples (i.e. soil features, temperature, humidity, etc.) with geolocation. A combined protocol including matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and 16S rDNA sequencing PCR has been established to characterize the isolates. The results have been processed using spatial statistic techniques (mainly Kriging), taking into account the number of isolated strains, also proving the reactivity against standard pathogenic bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, Salmonella, Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus aureus).
Characteristic of Classification and Prognostic Scoring Based on M6a RNA Methylation Modification in Lung Adenocarcinoma and Tumor Microenvironment Association
Authors: Yu Xiaoming , Han Mingming , Zhao Zhucheng , Chen Yanfan , Wang Liangxing
Published: February 2022

Accumulating evidence links m6A modification with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tumorigenesis development and tumor immune microenvironment. However, the deep impact of m6A modification in tumor-immune interactions of LUAD still remains largely unknown. In the present study, the landscape of m6A modification features were drawn by analyzing the multi-omics features of 20 m6A regulators from TCGA database. Many m6A regulators were aberrantly expressed in LUAD, whose mutations and copy number variation (CNV) frequency were difference. Besides, overall survival showed many m6A regulators are associated with LUAD prognosis. However, the three m6A modification clusters (m6ACluster) determined by unsupervised consensus clustering based on m6A regulators was hard to distinguish. And then the common intersection differentially expressed genes (inter-DEGs) with significant prognosis among m6AClusters were obtained by univariate cox regression analysis. Encouragingly, the m6A-related geneClusters based on significant inter-DEGs were distinguished from each other by PCA analysis. The three geneClusters were depicted the high-, middle- and low- immune cell infiltration subtypes by ssGSEA analysis. Specially, we established a scoring tool named genescore, which was negatively correlated with PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA4 expression and could reflect both the tumor microenvironment characterization and prognosis of LUAD patients. Majority of the DEGs between high and low genescore group were closely related to the tumor immune response. Low genescore group associated with poor prognosis exhibited higher immuneScore and lower tumorPurity applied by the ESTIMATE algorithm. Application of genescore on estimation of drug sensitivity confirmed that low genescore was more sensitive to Cisplatin, Docetaxel, Gemcitabine, Paclitaxel and Vinblastine, while the high genescore group was more sensitive to Erlotinib. Our study indicated that m6A modification related classification closely associated with tumor microenvironment and will provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of LUAD and contribute to develop more effective personalized treatment decisions.
Biotechnological uses of functional Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. tolerans NOC-122, Levilactobacillus parabrevis NOC-111, and Latilactobacillus curvatus NOC-110
Authors: Özdemir Nilgün
Published: February 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Docosahexaenoic acid alleviates cartilage degradation by mediating apoptosis and autophagy via JNK and p38 signaling pathways in human chondrocytes and osteoarthritis rat model
Authors: Gong Zishun , Yu Haomiao , Wang Guodong , Cao Ruiqi , Yin Heyong , Ma Lifeng , Guo Ai
Published: February 2022

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease which occurs commonly in the elderly. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is considered to play an anti-inflammatory role in the inflammation process of the human body. The aim of this study is to observe the effect of DHA on the proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, and related signaling pathway in human OA chondrocytes and the effect of DHA on cartilage degeneration in vivo. Methods and Results: Human OA chondrocytes model was established by IL-1β while OA rat models were prepared by anterior cruciate ligament transection and medial meniscectomy. The results showed that DHA promoted chondrocyte proliferation and decreased the percentage of apoptotic chondrocytes. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis showed more autophagic bodies in the cytoplasm with the treatment of DHA. Cartilage samples from the OA + DHA group showed thicker cartilage, decreased degradation and increased collagen II positive cell rate compared to the OA group, while the Mankin score was significantly lower. Additionally, DHA resulted in reduced mTOR expression and LC3-I/II ratio, increased Beclin-1 and Bcl-2 expression measured by Western-blot analysis. The mRNA expression of JNK and p38 was reduced compared to the IL-1 group. However, after intervention with 3-Methyladenine (3-MA, an autophapy inhibitor), the effect of DHA was blocked. Conclusions: DHA promoted chondrocyte proliferation, decreased cell apoptosis, and increased autophagic activity in OA chondrocytes. DHA could reduce cartilage degradation and increase collagen II secretion in vivo. We hypothesized that the underlying mechanism involved the suppression of the JNK and p38 signaling pathways.
Interactive relationship between plant growth and soil chemical properties in a mangrove afforestation stand, Kiribati
Authors: Inoue Tomomi , Akaji Yasuaki , Kohzu Ayato , Hinokidani Ko , Adachi Hiroshi , Kezuka Mio , Baba Shigeyuki
Published: February 2022

Purpose There is increased recognition of the importance of mangroves worldwide, with efforts being made to sustainably manage these ecosystems for forestry and fishery use. Although successive monitoring of mangrove growth after planting has been conducted in some afforestation stands, measurements of soil environmental changes accompanying the plant growth have not been made in most stands. In this study, we observed the interactive relationship between the growth of mangrove, Rhizophora stylosa, and soil chemical properties at an afforestation stand on Tarawa atoll, Kiribati.Methods We first estimated root biomass in the stand. Next, we measured the concentrations of dissolved phosphorus, nitrogen, and other ions (Br−, Ca2+, K+, Na+, Cl−, and SO42−) in soil pore water, as well as the isotopic ratio of leaf carbon and nitrogen in patches of different plant ages. Results Differences in salt stress among the patches were reflected in leaf δ13C, suggesting it would be a good indicator of the physiological response of mangrove plants to salinity. Estimated root biomass was positively related with phosphate and nitrate concentrations in soil pore water, indicating the formation of a rhizosphere environment with the occurrence of root–microorganism interactions. Leaf δ15N analysis suggested that the discrimination of nitrogen isotopes during nitrification and/or uptake of NH4+ and NO3− occurs in accordance with plant growth. Conclusions Our findings revealed the changes that occur in the chemical properties of mangrove leaves and soil pore water after mangrove plantation on a yearly basis, which can improve our understanding of environmental succession during the formation of mangrove ecosystems.
Factors Associated With Self-Medication Among Family Caregivers: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Masumoto Shoichi , Nakayama Gen , Haruta Junji , Maeno Tetsuhiro
Published: February 2022

Background: Although healthcare professionals pay attention to the drugs prescribed by physicians, few reports have assessed self-medication by family caregivers and associated factors. This study aimed to describe self-medication among family caregivers of community-dwelling adult patients, and to explore the factors related to self-medication.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey from November to December 2020 in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. Family caregivers between 40 and 74 years old and caring for community-dwelling adult patients with chronic conditions were recruited. The use of any self-medication in the last 2 weeks by family caregivers was the dependent variable. Independent variables were covariates including baseline characteristics of family caregivers and their experience with healthcare professionals in the care of patients, using the Japanese version of the Caregivers’ Experience Instrument (J-IEXPAC CAREGIVERS).Results: Of the 887 family caregivers who responded to the survey, 776 were included in the analysis. A total of 267 (34.4%) family caregivers reported having used self-medication in the last 2 weeks. Logistic regression analysis showed that the gender women (odds ratio 1.85) and having a lower score on the J-IEXPAC CAREGIVERS (odds ratio 0.81 per 1 SD increase) were associated with self-medication. Conclusions: This study revealed that about one-third of family caregivers self-medicate, and this practice is associated with a less positive experience of interprofessional care. These results suggest that it is important for healthcare professionals to be aware of the health condition of family caregivers and to provide appropriate advice regarding self-medication.
The Emotional States and Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Thyroid Dysfunction: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fanaei S.M , Amouzegar A , Cheraghi L , Mehrabi F , Amiri P
Published: February 2022

Background
The potential association between thyroid dysfunction, common psychological problems (depression, anxiety, and stress), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) have been previously discussed in the literature. The present study aimed to investigate this relationship among the Iranian adult population.
Methods
Participants were 212 patients recruited to the current study from two referral endocrinology clinics in Tehran, Iran, and categorized into hypofunctional (subclinical and overt hypothyroidism), hyperfunctional (subclinical and overt hyperthyroidism), and euthyroid groups. We assessed the emotional states and HRQoL using the 21-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Short-Form 12-point Health Survey Version 2 (SF-12v2). Data analysis was conducted using the SPSS version 22.
Results
the current results indicated that those with thyroid dysfunction, both hypofunctional and hyperfunctional groups had significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms (p < 0.05) as well as poorer HRQoL than their euthyroid counterparts. However, more detailed analysis showed that in participants with hyper- and hypo-functional dysfunction, physical and mental domains of HRQoL were mainly affected, respectively.
Conclusion
Our results showed that thyroid dysfunction could lead to negative emotional states in an adult population. Similar results have been observed regarding HRQoL. Further studies with larger sample sizes considering the subclinical and overt disorders are suggested for future research.
Attempted Retrieval Of Guidewire Fragment Using The Twisting Wire Technique Causes Coronary Perfusion: Case Report
Authors: Zhang Zi-wei , Pan Xiao-juan , Zou Ji-hong , Qi Feng
Published: February 2022

Background:The guidewire seldom breaks inside the coronary artery during percutaneous coronary intervention. Herein we report a rare case of spontaneous fracture of the guidewire when used for contralateral angiography, in which multiple percutaneous attempts at retrieval failed. Use of the twisting wire technique for this purpose led to coronary perforation and perfusion. The entrapped fragment was removed during emergency surgery to prevent further complications. This report also discusses potential causes of guidewire breakage and management strategies, and highlights the potential risk of the twisting wire technique when used for retrieving a fractured guidewire from the coronary artery.Case presentation: A guidewire that breaks inside the coronary artery during an intervention can cause immediate complications as well as adverse events over time. It must be removed. Retrieval methods to extract a guidewire fragment include deep engagement of the guiding catheter, or techniques such as the loop snare or twisting wire. The latter used to retrieve the fragment threatens coronary perforation, as the broken end of the guidewire is hard and sharp and can easily penetrate the coronary artery wall. In the present case, several pullback maneuvers using the twisting wire technique were performed to withdraw a guidewire fragment from the ostial right coronary artery (RCA), but coronary perforation occurred. When all attempts at percutaneous retrieval failed, surgical removal was necessary and successful. The patient had an uneventful recovery without signs or complications, as of the 3-month follow-up. Conclusions: We conclude that fracture of the guidewire remains a dangerous and unpredictable complication of percutaneous coronary intervention, and we especially highlight the potential risk of the twisting wire technique when used for retrieving the fractured wire from the coronary artery. Although the twisting wire technique is suitable to withdraw a fractured guidewire in selected cases, it must be used with great caution. For our patient, not only did the twisting wire technique fail to retrieve the broken guidewire fragment, but a most serious consequence was the penetration of the wall of the coronary artery.
Deep Neck Space Infection: A Case of Unexplained Headache Caused by Deep Neck Space Infection
Authors: Liu Min , Liu Meinian , Xu Wangbing , Zhong Faming , Yang Wenlong , Ye Yongxiang , Wan Xuan , Zhong Jiawei , Yu Liangkun , Yang Fengyun , Li Yong
Published: February 2022

Background: Deep neck space infection is a disease that is often misdiagnosed and may have many rare symptoms. We report a case of upper cervical infection with headache as the primary manifestation and review the relevant literature.Case presentation: A 76-year-old male patient had a recurrent headache for more than one year but was misdiagnosed as cerebrovascular disease. Cervical magnetic resonance imaging showed an abnormal signal of the cervical spine with surrounding tissue edema. A deep neck space infection was diagnosed. We had debridement, and the headache disappeared.Conclusions: This case shows that orthopedics and cardiovascular doctors should improve their understanding of deep neck space infection and avoid misdiagnosis.
NUT Carcinoma in Elderly Women With Special Morphology and Immunophenotype - a Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Wei Xuejing , Teng Xiaojing , Zhang Yanning , Cheng Ming , Chen Guangyong
Published: February 2022

Introduction: NUT carcinoma is a rapidly progressing and rare neoplasm mainly affecting the younger patients and most of them express epithelial markers, but not neuroendocrine markers, with a survival time of about one year. Retrospective studies have shown that pathologists and clinicians do not have enough understanding of it due to the lack of typical clinical manifestations, imaging, and morphological features. Case report: A 60-year-old female was diagnosed with repetitive epistaxis, nasal pain, and nasal congestion. Imaging examination showed obvious masses in the right nasal sinus and frontal sinus. Histopathologically with two types of tumor cells were first discovered: one was small fusiform cells with sparse cytoplasm and densely stained nuclei, and the other was large tumor cells with abundant cytoplasm, round or oval nuclei with obvious nucleoli, some cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm, obviously eccentric nuclei without nucleoli, resembling plasma cells. The sudden appearance of keratinization was another prominent feature. Immunohistochemical staining showed that P63 and NUT were diffusely positive, P40 and synaptophysin were focal positive, CK5/6 and cytokeratin AE1/AE3 were punctate positive in limited areas. Fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed BRD4-NUT translocation. The patient was still alive with 20 rounds of radiation after surgery without recurrence or metastasis after a 3-month follow-up. Conclusion: we report for the first time the eldest and surviving case of NUT carcinoma originating in the nasal cavity with special morphological features and different immunohistochemical results among previous study cases with focal positive for synaptophysin and only few cells were punctate positive stained with AE1/AE3. NUT antibody should be performed in the undifferentiated or poorly differentiated malignancies, particularly those with cytoplasmic vacuolation of medium-sized cells and/or the abrupt keratinization, irrespective of patient age.
Total Laparoscopic Radical Antegrade Modular Pancreato- splenectomy with Left-Posterior Superior Mesenteric Artery First-approach for Distal Pancreatic Cancer: Step-by-step Technique with a surgical case report (with video)
Authors: NGUYEN Thanh Khiem , NGUYEN Ham Hoi , LUONG Tuan Hiep , DANG Kim Khue , LE Van Duy , TRINH Hong Son , TRAN Duc Dung
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Left-sided pancreatic cancers are uncommon but supposedly seem more aggressive than tumors of pancreatic head. Radical antegrade modular pancreato-splenectomy (RAMPS) was proved to have safe and effective advantages while comparing with standard retrograde pancreato-splenectomy (SRPS) in recent systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses. Laparoscopic SMA first-approach RAMPS was recently proceeded with optimistic perioperative outcomes.Case presentation: Our patient is a 67-year-old female with a medical history of diabetes and hypertension, recruited because of upper left quadrant abdominal pain. She was referred for pancreato-splenectomy because of a 3-cm-sized mass in distal pancreas. We use 5 trocars and the patient placed in a Trendelenburg position. The retroperitoneum is opened at the left-posterior side of the meso-pancreato-duodenum along to the inframesocolic space, so that the anterior surface of the aorta (AO), inferior vena cave (IVC), left renal vein (LRV), left adrenal grand (LAG), and kidney are completely exposed. The inferior border of the pancreas had been dissected and separated from the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) below the pancreatic isthmus, removed the lymph nodes (LNs) groups 14v and 17. Then, dissect of LNs groups 7,8,9,11p,12 en bloc at the superior side of the pancreas. Dissection of LNs group 14p, d or SMA LNs after transecting the pancreas. The operation time was 240 min, the estimated blood loss was 200 ml. With no postoperative complications as well as no diarrhea, the patient was discharged on the POD8 uneventfully. Pathological result: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with T2N1 staging and negative margin (R0).Conclusions: This technique was safe and effective to perform precise and complete lymphadenectomy and negative posterior resection in total laparoscopic left-posterior SMA first-approach RAMPS for distal pancreatic cancer.
A female case of progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 3 caused by heterozygous mutations of ABCB4 gene and her cirrhosis improved after treatment of ursodeoxycholic acid
Authors: Qiao Fei , Lu Weiting , Ren Feng , Yang Haoran , Mo Guiling , Wang Shuangshuang , Liu Lina , Xu Xiangtao
Published: February 2022

Background
Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) is a group of rapidly progressing autosomal recessive genetic diseases characterized by intrahepatic cholestasis. PFIC-3 is caused by mutations in the ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 4 gene (ABCB4) encoding multidrug-resistant protein 3 (MDR3/ABCB4) protein which can lead to the absence of phosphatidylcholine, cholangiopathy, bile duct loss and biliary cirrhosis. Patients usually present in infancy or childhood, but cirrhosis and portal hypertension may be the first manifestation in older children or young people.
Case presentation:
A 25-year-old young woman with recurrent abnormal hepatic function was mainly characterized by increased gamma glutamyl transpeptisae (GGT) and bile acid with cryptogenic cirrhosis. After 7 months of treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), Her hepatic pathology suggested there were also obvious widening and venous fibrosis around the portal vein, and slight bile duct hyperplasia at the edge of the portal area. Infiltration of inflammatory cells around the portal vein and hepatocyte ABCB4/MDR3 protein was basically normal. Sequencing indicated the patient had heterozygous mutations in the ABCB4 gene: c.2696C>G and wes[hg19]7q21.12(87032513-87033422)×1. Through SWISS-MODEL Predict for protein structures, the missense mutation results in protein side chain missing a methyl group (-CH3), and the deletion mutation results in the serious damage to the structure of MDR3 protein. Through the analysis of pathogenicity prediction software, the mutations led to PFIC3. After treatment of UDCA for 29 months, her cirrhosis was improved, hepatic function was close to normal.
Conclusion
The novel heterozygous mutation is the molecular pathological cause of PFIC3 in this patient. Young patients with cryptogenic cirrhosis should all undergo work up for ABCB4. Diagnosis of PFIC3 early and continuous treatment of UDCA are the key to improve the prognosis and delay the occurrence of end-stage liver disease.
Myeloid Sarcoma Transformed From CML Presenting Ectopic Expression of AFP: A Case Report
Authors: Wang Ying , Sun Haimin , Zhang Sujiang
Published: February 2022

Background：Myeloid Sarcoma (MS) may be transformed from chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). However, no any relationship about MS and significant elevated Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) as well as multiple osteolytic damage was reported.Case presentation：A 38-years-old man, who was firstly diagnosed as CML chronic phase and treated with imatinib eight years ago, gradually progressed into MS with bone pain and multiple osteolytic damage, especially with elevated AFP. Immunohistochemical staining strongly confirmed that AFP is secreted by MS and its level is fluctuated with treatment outcome. Sequential compound ABL mutations were also identified in bone marrow and finally the patient lost any treatment response to targeted therapy as well as combined chemotherapy.Discussion and Conclusions：To our knowledge, this case is the first report about MS with aberrant AFP expression.
Access, utilization, and barriers to using malaria protection tools in migrants to Iran
Authors: Nejati Jalil , Okati-Aliabad Hassan , Ansari-Moghaddam Alireza , Mohammadi Mahdi , Ranjbar Mansour , Raeisi Ahmad , Kolifarhood Godarz , Shahraki-Sanavi Fariba , Khorram Alireza
Published: February 2022

Background: Imported malaria cases could be considered one of the threats to malaria elimination. Therefore, increasing migrants’ access to malaria preventive measures can play an essential role in maintaining appropriate conditions and preventing malaria outbreaks. This study aimed to provide detailed information about access, utilization, and barriers to using malaria protection tools in migrants to Iran.Methods: This study was conducted in a vast region consisting of 4 provinces and 38 cities located in the south and southeast of the country. Study participants were migrants who moved to the study area in the past three months. A sample of 4163 migrants participated in the study. They were selected through a multi-stage sampling method to obtain a representative community sample. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires about participants’ socio-demographic specification, commuting characteristics, travel aim, access, ways of preparing, and reasons to use or not to use malaria protection tools. Quantitative and qualitative variables were described and analyzed finally.Results: The mean age of individuals was 28.6±10.8, with a range of 3-88 years old. Migrants’ country of origin was Afghanistan (56.6%), Pakistan (38.4%), and Iran (5%). Most migrants (69.2%) did not have malaria protection tools while staying in Iran. Among those who prepared the protection tools, 74% used long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), 13.4% used mosquito repellent sticks and coil, and 12.7% did not use any tools. Respectively, lack of knowledge about where they can get LLINs, followed by being expensive, unavailability in the market, not cooperation of health officer, and no need to use were expressed as the causes for having no access. The main reasons for non-using the tools were lack of knowledge about their application, followed by a defect in protection tools, ineffectiveness, and being harmful, respectively. Migrants who supported with an employer accessed more to LLINs. Conclusion: This study reveals significant shortcomings in knowledge, access, and utilization of malaria protection tools among migrants in Iran. Inequitable access to public health services is predictable during migration; however, access to sustainable protection tools is recommended.
Immune-Checkpoint Inhibitors For The Treatment Of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Comparison Of The Regulatory Approvals In Europe And The United States
Authors: Zaim Remziye , Redekop Ken , Groot Carin A. Uyl-de
Published: February 2022

The process of regulatory authorization of oncology drugs, including immune-checkpoint inhibitors, has been improved by the cooperation and coordination among the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Regulatory decisions of immune-checkpoint inhibitors by these agencies are often based on enhanced efficacy and acceptable toxicity profiles, investigated in randomized, open-label, clinical trials. In this study, we addressed the differences in regulatory approvals between the FDA and the EMA for immune-checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer, from year 2015 until 2021; by focusing on: (1) time to approval of immune-checkpoint inhibitors, and (2) the considerations of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) by each agency. Both the FDA and the EMA recognize the value of PROs as important patient-centered endpoints when determining the efficacy of therapies, and considering drugs for approval. Despite similarities in the regulatory pathways and assessments used for immune-checkpoint inhibitor approvals, there are differences between the two agencies when time to approval or marketing authorization for these drugs were compared. Efforts to align regulatory practices, with high concordance approval outcomes, can lead to better use of resources associated with drug development. These efforts can also provide a more streamlined and predictable process for evaluation of the efficacy, safety and PRO measures for new immune-checkpoint inhibitors or disease indications. Further harmonization and collaboration between the EMA and the FDA on the PRO instrument development, measurement and validation are encouraged to increase the efficiency of the decision-making processes in the future.
Japanese Industrial Technical Terms: Word Formation, Word Type and Word Education
Authors: Tuptim Natthira
Published: February 2022

In Thailand, Japanese learners need to attend training or internships at respectable Japanese companies. Previous research has found problems with comprehension of technical terms, but there are no studies or research on how technical terms can confuse or may be difficult for learners to use. So, this study is aimed at analyzing word formation and word types of Japanese technical terms in the industry, simplifying what makes technical terms difficult for learners in terms of their morphological knowledge, and offers a way to teach technical terms and enhance learners’ understanding about Japanese technical terms based upon morphological knowledge. The results have shown that in Japanese technical terms, Sino-Japanese or Kango was found mostly when compared to other word types, hybrids, foreign words, and native words. Regarding word formation, compounding is the most common. The difficulties of technical terms could be divided into four types that are unfamiliar with Kango, changing form into hybrids, the different meaning of loanwords, and lack of knowledge of intra-structure of compounds, affixes, and clippings. The test of morphological knowledge by the University of Washington was adapted into learning drills to enhance the knowledge of word types and word formation.
Evaluation of antibacterial and toxicological activities of essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum L. and its major constituent Eugenol
Authors: Silva Julio Cesar , Pereira Raimundo Luiz Silva , de Freitas Thiago Sampaio , Rocha Janaína Esmeraldo , Macedo Nair Silva , Nonato Carla de Fatima Alves , Linhares Marina Leite , Tavares Daniely Sampaio Arruda , Cunha Francisco Assis Bezerra da , Coutinho Henrique Douglas Melo , de Lima Sidney Gonçalo , Junior Francisco Nascimento Pereira , Rodrigues Fabiola Fernandes Galvão , Santos George Joaquim Garcia
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the direct antibacterial activity, antibiotic modulation and toxicity of the essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum L. and its major compound Eugenol. The phytochemical analysis of the essential oil from leaves was investigated by Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (CG-MS) and Eugenol was the major compound (63.25%). The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration and clinical antibiotics modulatory activities were performed using the 96-well plate microdilution methodology. Drosophila melanogaster was used as a model to assess the toxicity of the two substances. In conclusion, the eugenol and essential oil of Ocimum gratissimum L. showed direct antibacterial activity and associates with the tested antibiotics, which place them as promising agents against bacterial resistance. The essential oil showed less toxicity to fruit flies when compared to eugenol alone, although the results were numerically similar.
Global evidence on the potential of some Ugandan herbal medicines to mitigate antibiotic resistance: a systematic review and meta-analysis from 1996 to 2021
Authors: Walusansa Abdul , Ssenku Jamilu. E. ,   Arthur. K. Tugume1, Asiimwe Savina , Kafeero Hussein. M. , Aruhomukama Dickson , Nakavuma Jesca. L. , Kakudidi Esezah K.
Published: February 2022

Background
Diarrheal and respiratory ailments are major causes of global deaths, and are mostly escalated by antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB), warranting novel therapies against ARB. In Uganda, plants like C. pyrrhopappa, E. abyssinica, C. limon, M. foetida, C. flexuosus, and C. citrinus are often used to treat diarrhea and/or cough. Some of these are reported to demonstrate antibacterial properties in some countries, but the evidence is limited due to fragmented studies. We evaluated global antibacterial research on these plants, to derive practical insights, able to stimulate new thinking and inform drug development.
Methods
Electronic articles on antibacterial effects of the named plants (with a special focus on efficacy against ARB), were identified from 14 electronic databases. The eligible articles were examined using Standard Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA). Sensitive ARB to the plant-extracts, Cochran’s Q test, and heterogeneity were evaluated with MedCalcs software, using a random-effects model. Sources of heterogeneity were examined through sensitivity analysis, subgroup analysis, and meta-regression (p < 0.05). Publication bias was assessed using Begg’s test and funnel plot asymmetry.
Results
Sixty-one articles met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 20 assessed the plants against 237 ARB invitro. C. flexuosus had the greatest efficacy (89.8%), while C. pyrrhopappa had the least (0.0%). Efficacy differences between C. flexuosus (the most efficacious species), and the rest of the plants were not significant except for M. foetida and C. pyrrhopappa (χ2, p < 0.05). The multidrug-resistant strains (resistant to at least three drug-classes), with 100% sensitivity to plant extracts included A. baumannii, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa. Heterogeneity was high (I2 = 86.85%), with no evidence of publication bias, hence suggesting robust results.
Conclusion
Some herbal medicines in Uganda have vast potential to avert the global antibacterial resistance menace. Their efficacy against globally circulating bacteria that are resistant to vital drugs, such as carbapenems, shows possible treatment success if these species are used in drug development. More research is desired, especially on the potential efficacy of these plants against the world’s leading strains of resistant bacteria like K. pneumoniae and E. coli. Also, in-vivo studies are recommended due to their importance in drug discovery.
A Lightweight Searchable Encryption and Delegation Mechanism with Forward Privacy for Improving the Security of Industrial Internet of Things-Cloud Systems
Authors: VENKATESAN S. , RAJESHWARI K. RAJA , RAMAKRISHNAN M.
Published: February 2022

Improving the security and privacy of the industrial data stored in cloud systems is one of the demanding and challenging problem in the recent days, due to the increased utilization rate of IIoT systems. For this purpose, various lightweight cryptographic models are developed in the conventional works, which are mainly focusing on ensuring the data security against the adversaries. However, it limits with the main problems of increased computational complexity, cost complexity, and time consumption, which degrades the performance of entire system. Hence, this paper objects to design an advanced cryptography models, named as Lightweight Searchable Encryption and Delegation (LSED) methodology with forward privacy for enabling the secured data storage and retrieval operations in IIoT-cloud systems. Moreover, the searchable encryption incorporated with the forward privacy property considers that the previously stored trapdoor is invalid for the recently updated cipher data, which efficiently enhances the security of IIoT data against the adversaries. During performance evaluation, there are various evaluation metrics have been utilized for validating the results of both existing and proposed searchable encryption techniques.
Snapshot of a magnetohydrodynamic disk wind
Authors: Moscadelli Luca , Sanna Alberto , Beuther Henrik , Kuiper Rolf , Oliva Andre'
Published: February 2022

The formation of astrophysical objects of different nature and size, from black holes to gaseous giant planets, involves a disk-jet system, where the disk drives the mass accretion onto a central compact object and the jet is a fast collimated ejection along the disk rotation axis. Magnetohydrodynamic disk winds can provide the link between mass accretion and ejection, which is essential to ensure that the excess angular momentum is removed from the system and accretion onto the central object can proceed. However, up to now, we have been lacking direct observational proof of disk winds. This work presents a direct view of the velocity field of a disk wind around a high-mass forming star. Achieving a very high spatial resolution of ~0.05~au, our water maser observations trace the velocities of individual streamlines emerging from the disk orbiting the forming star. We find that, at a low elevation above the disk midplane, the flow co-rotates with its launch point in the disk, in agreement with magneto-centrifugal acceleration where the gas is flung away along the magnetic field line anchored to the disk. Beyond the co-rotation point, the flow rises spiraling around the disk rotation axis along a helical magnetic field. Our results are, presently, the clearest evidence for a magnetohydrodynamic disk wind, and show that water masers and high-mass forming stars provide a suitable combination of tracer and environment to allow us studying the disk-wind physics.
Assessment of Occupational Injuries, Health, and Risk Faced by Stone Crushing Industry Workers
Authors: Islam Saiful , Biswas Pronob Kumar , Saha Shanta , Sayem Ahmed , Khan M. Muhshin Aziz
Published: February 2022

Background and Purpose
The prevalence of occupational injuries among blue-collar workers is higher in the stone quarry and crushing industries due to a larger number of high-risk activities and an iterant nature of work. These occupational injuries, in turn, caused workers' ill health and reduced working capacity, as well as death, which eventually contributed to the loss of the gross domestic product. We aimed at assessing the attributes of occupational injuries and the risk associated with the hazards that prevailed in the stone-crushing industry.
Methods
Data were collected from thirty-two stone-crushing factories using a semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed to show their relationship with different variables. The proposition of Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSAS 18001:1999) was used to define hazards, and the risk levels associated with the most frequent hazardous events were measured using a Semi-Quantitative Risk Assessment Matrix.
Results
82% of injuries were found to occur between 12:00 to 18:00 hours. Almost one-fifth of the injuries fell in major and critical severity categories, which caused the workers to be absent for a week to more than a month. Exposure to excessive dust, working without personal protective equipment, and improper lifting and handling techniques caused one-third of injuries. Wrist and hand/fingers, back and lower back, feet/toe, eye, knee, arm, neck and head, and ankle were found as most injured body parts.
Conclusion
Our finding suggests that all the significant hazards identified posed a high level of risk, which makes this industry one of the most hazardous industries.
Analysis of the Relations between Forestry Financial Supports and Forest Crimes
Authors: Sevinç Volkan
Published: February 2022

Forest crimes are among the serious threats destroying forests. To prevent the forest crimes there are various solutions proposed such as fortification of the laws, increasing the penalties, or increasing the public awareness. This article, however, aims to investigate the relations between the financial supports provided to forest villagers by the state in Turkey and the levels of various forest crime types to see whether the financial supports provided will cause any change in the forest crime levels. The study shows that, when the forest villagers are given financial supports, the levels of illegal logging, illegally expended trees, and illegal pasturage crimes decrease significantly. However, the financial supports do not affect the levels of illegal transfer of the forestry products, illegally expanding the lands into the forests, and illegal occupation of the forest areas crimes.