bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental and maternal factors shaping tonsillar microbiota development in piglets
Authors: Fredriksen Simen , Guan Xiaonan , Boekhorst Jos , Molist Francesc , van Baarlen Peter , Wells Jerry M.
Published: September 2022

Background

The palatine tonsils are part of the mucosal immune system and stimulate immune responses through M cell uptake sampling of antigens and bacteria in the tonsillar crypts. Little is known about the development of the tonsillar microbiota and the factors determining the establishment and proliferation of disease-associated bacteria such as Streptococcus suis. In this study, we assessed tonsillar microbiota development in piglets during the first 5 weeks of life and identified the relative importance of maternal and environmental farm parameters influencing the tonsillar microbiota at different ages. Additionally, we studied the effect sow vaccination with a bacterin against S. suis on microbiota development and S. suis colonisation in their offspring.

Results

Amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene V3-V4 region revealed that a diverse tonsillar microbiota is established shortly after birth, which then gradually changes during the first 5 weeks of life without a large impact of weaning on composition or diversity. We found a strong litter effect, with siblings sharing a more similar microbiota compared to non-sibling piglets. Co-housing in rooms, within which litters were housed in separate pens, also had a large impact on microbiota composition. Sow parity and prepartum S. suis bacterin vaccination of sows had weaker but significant associations with microbiota composition, impacting on the abundance of Streptococcus species before and after weaning. Sex and birthweight had limited impact on the tonsillar microbiota, and none of the measured factors had consistent associations with microbiota diversity.

Conclusions

The piglet tonsillar microbiota is established shortly after birth. While microbiota development is associated with both environmental and maternal parameters, weaning has limited impact on microbiota composition. Intramuscular vaccination of sows pre-partum had a significant effect on the tonsillar microbiota composition of their piglets. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms shaping the tonsillar microbiota.
Correspondence to: performance of the new SmartCardia wireless, wearable oximeter: a comparison with arterial SaO2 in healthy volunteers
Authors: Barker Steven J. , Wilson William C.
Published: September 2022

In a recent publication in BMC Anesthesiology, Rincon, et al.present accuracy data for three pulse oximeters with sensors located at three different anatomic sites. Their results for the Masimo Radical with fingertip sensor are erroneous, and we present valid data here. Rincon, et al.show a Bias ± Precision of 2.02 ± 4.6, while the correct laboratory values are -0.01 ± 1.16. The most probable reason for these invalid data is that insufficient time was used at each saturation plateau to allow stabilization of SpO2 readings on a fingertip sensor. It has been shown in the literature that fingertip sensors require at least a full minute of stable oxygenation conditions before their readings will be the same as earlobe sensors.
Nonlinear relationship with saturation effect observed between neutrophil to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and atherosclerosis in a health examination population: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhou Yaqing , Dan Haijun , Bai Long , Jia Limei , Lu Baojin , Cui Wei
Published: September 2022

Background

The relationships between inflammatory indexes and atherosclerosis as well as those between blood lipid indexes and atherosclerosis have been widely studied, but the relationship between the neutrophil to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHR) and atherosclerosis had not been investigated until the present study.

Methods

For this cross‐sectional study, we continuously collected data from a health examination population in the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University from January 2012 to December 2017 (N = 1978). The collected data included clinical data, hematological indexes, and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (Ba-PWV). Atherosclerosis was defined as Ba-PWV ≥ 1400 cm/s. The relationship between the NHR and atherosclerosis was explored via univariate regression analysis, multivariate regression analysis, smoothing function analysis, and analysis of a threshold saturation effect.

Results

Among 1978 participants, the mean age was 54 years, 1189 participants (60.11%) were male, and 1103 (55.76%) had a history of atherosclerosis. Univariate analysis showed a positive association between the NHR and atherosclerosis [odds ratio (OR) = 1.19, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.11–1.27, P < 0.01], and this positive association remained significant on multivariate analyses with adjustments for confounding factors (OR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.06–1.24, P < 0.01). Generalized additive model results revealed a non-linear relationship with a saturation effect between the NHR and atherosclerosis, with a threshold at 3.32. At values ≤ 3.32, the NHR was positively associated with atherosclerosis, but the association was not statistically significant for values > 3.32.

Conclusion

A nonlinear relationship with a certain saturation effect was observed between the NHR and atherosclerosis in a health examination population.
Primary care physician responses to requests by older adults for unnecessary drugs: a qualitative study
Authors: Xu Zhijie , Lu Yiting , Liang Xujian , Ye Yuanqu , Wang Yang , Deng Zhiling , Xu Yuanyuan , Fang Lizheng , Qian Yi
Published: September 2022

Background

Unnecessary drug use can cause avoidable harm to older adults and is particularly common in primary care, but how primary care physicians (PCPs) respond to older adult requests for unnecessary drugs has not been well studied. This study is to explore PCPs’ responses to requests for unnecessary drugs from older adults, and their influencing factors and potential solutions.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured, in-depth interviews from January 4 to September 30, 2020 using a grounded theory methodology. A purposive sample of PCPs affiliated with community healthcare centers in Zhejiang Province and Guangdong Province, China were recruited. The face-to-face interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and independently coded by two investigators. Themes surrounding PCPs’ responses to requests for unnecessary drugs, their influencing factors and potential solutions were analysed using a constant comparative approach.

Results

Of the 23 participants involved in this study, 12 (52%) were women and the mean age was 35 years. PCPs frequently declined older adults’ requests for unnecessary drugs through dissuasion, and occasionally rebuffed patients or referred them to another practitioner. PCPs may fulfill requests due to physician acquiescence, patient pressure, or inadequate supervision and support. Participants recommended four potential solutions to improve the quality of prescribing, including developing professional communication skills, enhancing pharmacist-physician collaboration, improving electronic prescription systems, and strengthening prescription management.

Conclusions

PCPs typically deny requests by older adults for unnecessary drugs according to three main patterns, and guidance is necessary to reduce the potential for adverse consequences. Factors contributing to request fulfillment by PCPs require attention, and the potential solutions recommended by participants deserve consideration to improve the service quality of prescribing for older adults in primary care practices.
Values of OAS gene family in the expression signature, immune cell infiltration and prognosis of human bladder cancer
Authors: Gao Lijuan , Ren Ruimin , Shen Jing , Hou Jiayi , Ning Junya , Feng Yanlin , Wang Meiyue , Wu Lifei , Sun Yaojun , Wang Huang , Wang Deping , Cao Jimin
Published: September 2022

Background

Bladder cancer (BLCA) is one of the most common genitourinary malignancies in the world, but its pathogenic genes have not been fully identified and the treatment outcomes are still unsatisfactory. Although the members of 2', 5'-oligoadenylate synthetase (OAS) gene family are known involved in some tumorous biological processes, the roles of the OAS gene family in BLCA are still undetermined.

Methods

By combining vast bioinformatic datasets analyses of BLCA and the experimental verification on clinical BLCA specimen, we identified the expressions and biological functions of OAS gene family members in BLCA with comparison to normal bladder tissues.

Results

The expression levels of OAS gene family members were higher in BLCA than in normal bladder tissues. The expression levels of most OAS genes had correlations with genomic mutation and methylation, and with the infiltration levels of CD4 + T cells, CD8 + T cells, neutrophils, and dendritic cells in the microenvironment of BLCA. In addition, high expressions of OAS1, OAS2, OAS3, and OASL predicted better overall survival in BLCA patients.

Conclusions

The highly expressed OAS genes in BLCA can reflect immune cells infiltration in the tumor microenvironment and predict the better overall survival of BLCA, and thus may be considered as a signature of BLCA. The study provides new insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of BLCA.
Prognostic and clinicopathological significance of transcription factor c-Jun in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: a 3-year follow-up retrospective study
Authors: Huang Qiang , Ye Min , Li Feiran , Lin Lan , Hu Chunyan
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To investigate the expression and prognostic value of c-Jun in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC).

Methods

A retrospective study was performed on a cohort of 99 HPSCC patients. The expression of c-Jun and phosphorylated-c-Jun (p-c-Jun) was evaluated via immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were assessed using Kaplan–Meier method and multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Results

The high expression of c-Jun and p-c-Jun in HPSCC accounted for 60.61% and 16.16%, respectively. High expression of c-Jun was closely associated with cT stage (p = 0.0401), tumor size (p = 0.0276), number of lymph node metastases (p = 0.0205) and pathological differentiation (p = 0.0108). The expression of c-Junhigh (p = 0.0043), p-c-Junhigh (p = 0.0376) and c-Junhigh/p-c-Junhigh were closely associated with poor OS. The Cox proportional multivariate hazard model revealed that lymphovascular invasion and c-Jun expression were independent influencing factors of OS in HPSCC patients.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that c-Jun is a reliable prognostic factors in HPSCC patients.
Profile of judicialization in access to antineoplastic drugs and their costs: a cross-sectional, descriptive study based on a set of all lawsuits filed between 2016 and 2018 in a state in the Northeast Region of Brazil
Authors: de Oliveira Fábio Henrique Cavalcanti , de Lorena Sobrinho José Eudes , da Cruz Gouveia Mendes Antônio , Gutman Haynne Magalhães Santos , Filho Geraldo Jorge , Montarroyos Ulisses Ramos
Published: September 2022

Background

The judicialization of the acquisition of medication for healthcare is not restricted to Brazil but can also be found in other Latin American countries, despite the existence of a universal health system in the case of Brazil, the Unified Health System (known as the SUS). Right-to-medicines litigation has existed ever since the emergence of a high demand for treatment of Acquired Immuno-deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) but the current focus is on cancer. Pharmaceutical Assistance (PA) is the area within the SUS that is responsible for ensuring access to medication and the aim of this article is thus to draw up a profile of litigation related to PA in one economically significant state in the Northeast Region of Brazil, in terms of the following characteristics of lawsuits: the plaintiff filing the lawsuit; medical and health information; the cost of acquiring the requested medications; and the proportion accounted for by spending on antineoplastic drugs.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted of lawsuits filed between 2016 and 2018 at the Litigation Center of the State of Pernambuco Department of Health.

Results

A total of 2,947 lawsuits containing at least one requested medication were analyzed. The majority of the plaintiffs were male (51.7%); 49.8% of the requests originated in the Unified Health System (SUS), and plaintiffs were primarily patients in the Metropolitan region of the State capital, Recife. The most frequent cancers involved were those classified by the ICD as C61, C71 and C50. The median general expense on medications for the actions was U$1,734.94. Considering antineoplastic drugs alone, the cost exceeded U$7,500 per lawsuit over the three years, given that the median unit price for antineoplastic drugs is approximately US$65 compared to US$4 for non-antineoplastic drugs.

Conclusion

The present study is of relevance to the field of public health and examines how a profile of such healthcare litigation can be used as a tool for managing and improving decision-making in times of economic austerity.
Association of thyroid function test abnormalities with preeclampsia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hajifoghaha Mahboubeh , Teshnizi Saeed Hosseini , Forouhari Sedighe , Dabbaghmanesh Mohammad Hossein
Published: September 2022

Background

Preeclampsia is a life-threatening disorder during pregnancy and postpartum periods. Preeclampsia can affect the activity of many organs. It is very important because if this disorder is associated with changes in thyroid function, it can affect the results of maternal and fetal tests. Accordingly, the aim of this meta-analysis study was to assess the abnormalities in thyroid function tests in preeclampsia.

Methods

Studies were selected through a systematic search of the MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar databases in 31st August 2021. Also, reference lists of review articles and relevant studies were manual-searched to identify other potentially eligible studies. English studies that compared TSH, T4 and T3 of normal pregnant with preeclamptic women (Known to be normotensive before pregnancy; gestational age 20 week or more; singleton pregnancy; no previous history of thyroid dysfunction) were screened. Data sets were screened for eligibility by two independent reviewers. Articles were assessed by the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used for quality assessment of evidence on outcome levels.

Results

After reviewing 886 published studies, 63 observational studies were selected and used for this meta-analysis. The study population included 21,528 pregnant women. The findings revealed that TSH (SMD = 1.70, 95%CI: 1.39 to 2.02;p < 0.001) was significantly higher in preeclamptic women. TT4 (SMD = -0.82, 95%CI: -1.16, -0.49; p < 0.001), TT3 (SMD = -0.88, 95%CI: -1.36 to -0.41;p < 0.001) and FT3 (SMD = -0.59, 95%CI: -0.91 to -0.27; p < 0.001) were less in preeclamptic women. There was no statistically significant difference in FT4 between two groups (SMD = 0.002, 95%CI: -0.27 to 0.27;p = .990). The results of publication bias and sensitivity analysis confirmed the reliability and stability of this meta-analysis. The quality of evidence was regarded as moderate, low, and very low for these risk factors according to the GRADE approach.

Conclusions

Findings of this meta-analysis indicated preeclamptic women were more at risk of changes in thyroid function tests. In order to prevent thyroid disorders, it is recommended that thyroid function tests be performed in women with pre-eclampsia.
Comparison of catastrophic out-of-pocket medical expenditure among older adults in the United States and South Korea: what affects the apparent difference?
Authors: Kim Narae , Jacobson Mireille
Published: September 2022

Background

Medical spending rises sharply with age. Even with universal health insurance, older adults may be at risk of catastrophic out-of-pocket medical spending. We aimed to compare catastrophic out-of-pocket medical spending among adults ages 65 and older in the United States, where seniors have near-universal coverage through Medicare, versus South Korea, where all residents have national health insurance.

Methods

We used the 2016 Health and Retirement Study and the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging. The study population were adults ages 65 and over in the US (n = 9,909) and South Korea (n = 4,450; N = 14,359). The primary outcome of interest was older adults’ exposure to catastrophic out-of-pocket medical expenditure, defined as out-of-pocket medical spending over the past two years that exceeded 50% of annual household income. To examine the factors affecting catastrophic out-of-pocket medical spending of older adults in both countries, we performed logistic regression analyses. To compare the contribution of demographic factors versus health system-level factors to catastrophic out-of-pocket medical spending, we performed a Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition.

Results

The proportion of respondents with catastrophic out-of-pocket medical expenditure was 5.8% and 3.0% in the US and South Korea, respectively. A Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition showed that the difference in the rate of catastrophic out-of-pocket medical expenditure spending between the two countries was attributable largely to unobservable system-level factors, rather than observed differences in the sociodemographic characteristics.

Conclusions

Exposure to catastrophic out-of-pocket medical spending is considerably higher in the US than South Korea. Most of the difference can be attributed to unobserved health system-level factors.
Practice characteristics influencing variation in provision of depression care in general practice in Norway; a registry-based cohort study (The Norwegian GP-DEP study)
Authors: Riiser Sharline , Baste Valborg , Haukenes Inger , Smith-Sivertsen Tone , Hetlevik Øystein , Ruths Sabine
Published: September 2022

Background

There is growing evidence of variation in treatment for patients with depression, not only across patient characteristics, but also with respect to the organizational and structural framework of general practitioners’ (GPs') practice. However, the reasons for these variations are sparsely examined. This study aimed to investigate associations of practice characteristics with provision of depression care in general practices in Norway.

Methods

A nationwide cohort study of residents aged ≥ 18 years with a new depression episode in general practice during 2009–2015, based on linked registry data. Exposures were characteristics of GP practice: geographical location, practice list size, and duration of GP-patient relationship. Outcomes were talking therapy, antidepressant medication and sick listing provided by GP during 12 months from date of diagnosis. Associations between exposure and outcome were estimated using generalized linear models, adjusted for patients’ age, gender, education and immigrant status, and characteristics of GP practice.

Results

The study population comprised 285 113 patients, mean age 43.5 years, 61.6% women. They were registered with 5 574 GPs. Of the patients, 52.5% received talking therapy, 34.1% antidepressant drugs and 54.1% were sick listed, while 17.3% received none of the above treatments. Patients in rural practices were less likely to receive talking therapy (adjusted relative risk (adj RR) = 0.68; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.64–0.73) and more likely to receive antidepressants (adj RR = 1.09; 95% CI = 1.04–1.14) compared to those in urban practices. Patients on short practice lists were more likely to receive medication (adj RR = 1.08; 95% CI = 1.05–1.12) than those on long practice lists. Patients with short GP-patient relationship were more likely to receive talking therapy (adj RR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.17–1.23) and medication (adj RR = 1.08; 95% CI = 1.04–1.12), and less likely to be sick-listed (RR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.87–0.89), than patients with long GP-patient relationship.

Conclusions

Provision of GP depression care varied with practice characteristics. Talking therapy was less commonly provided in rural practices and among those with long-lasting GP-patient relationship. These differences may indicate some variation, and therefore, its reasons and clinical consequences need further investigation.
Effect of TCF7L2 on the relationship between lifestyle factors and glycemic parameters: a systematic review
Authors: Hosseinpour-Niazi Somayeh , Mirmiran Parvin , Hosseini Shabnam , Hadaegh Farzad , Ainy Elaheh , Daneshpour Maryam S , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: September 2022

Background

Among candidate genes related to type 2 diabetes (T2DM), one of the strongest genes is Transcription factor 7 like 2 (TCF7L2), regarding the Genome-Wide Association Studies. We aimed to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the modification effect of TCF7L2 on the relation between glycemic parameters and lifestyle factors.

Methods

A systematic literature search was done for relevant publications using electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science, from January 1, 2000, to November 2, 2021.

Results

Thirty-eight studies (16 observational studies, six meal test trials, and 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs)) were included. Most observational studies had been conducted on participants with non-diabetes showing that TCF7L2 modified the association between diet (fatty acids and fiber) and insulin resistance. In addition, findings from meal test trials showed that, compared to non-risk-allele carriers, consumption of meals with different percentages of total dietary fat in healthy risk-allele carriers increased glucose concentrations and impaired insulin sensitivity. However, ten RCTs, with intervention periods of less than ten weeks and more than one year, showed that TCF7L2 did not modify glycemic parameters in response to a dietary intervention involving different macronutrients. However, two weight loss dietary RCTs with more than 1-year duration showed that serum glucose and insulin levels decreased and insulin resistance improved in non-risk allele subjects with overweight/obesity. Regarding artichoke extract supplementation (ALE), two RCTs observed that ALE supplementation significantly decreased insulin concentration and improved insulin resistance in the TT genotype of the rs7903146 variant of TCF7L2. In addition, four studies suggested that physical activity levels and smoking status modified the association between TCF7L2 and glycemic parameters. However, three studies observed no effect of TCF7L2 on glycemic parameters in participants with different levels of physical activity and smoking status.

Conclusion

The modification effects of TCF7L2 on the relation between the lifestyle factors (diet, physical activity, and smoking status) and glycemic parameters were contradictory.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020196327
Curcumin and capsaicin regulate apoptosis and alleviate intestinal inflammation induced by Clostridioides difficile in vitro
Authors: Azimirad Masoumeh , Noori Maryam , Azimirad Fahimeh , Gholami Fatemeh , Naseri Kaveh , Yadegar Abbas , Asadzadeh Aghdaei Hamid , Zali Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2022

Background

The dramatic upsurge of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) by hypervirulent isolates along with the paucity of effective conventional treatment call for the development of new alternative medicines against CDI. The inhibitory effects of curcumin (CCM) and capsaicin (CAP) were investigated on the activity of toxigenic cell-free supernatants (Tox-S) of C. difficile RT 001, RT 126 and RT 084, and culture-filtrate of C. difficile ATCC 700057.

Methods

Cell viability of HT-29 cells exposed to varying concentrations of CCM, CAP, C. difficile Tox-S and culture-filtrate was assessed by MTT assay. Anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of CCM and CAP were examined by treatment of HT-29 cells with C. difficile Tox-S and culture-filtrate. Expression of BCL-2, SMAD3, NF-κB, TGF-β and TNF-α genes in stimulated HT-29 cells was measured using RT-qPCR.

Results

C. difficile Tox-S significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the cell viability of HT-29 cells in comparison with untreated cells. Both CAP and CCM significantly (P < 0.05) downregulated the gene expression level of BCL-2, SMAD3, NF-κB and TNF-α in Tox-S treated HT-29 cells. Moreover, the gene expression of TGF-β decreased in Tox-S stimulated HT-29 cells by both CAP and CCM, although these reductions were not significantly different (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of the present study highlighted that CCM and CAP can modulate the inflammatory response and apoptotic effects induced by Tox-S from different clinical C. difficile strains in vitro. Further studies are required to accurately explore the anti-toxin activity of natural components, and their probable adverse risks in clinical practice.
Single-cell multi-omics profiling links dynamic DNA methylation to cell fate decisions during mouse early organogenesis
Authors: Clark Stephen J. , Argelaguet Ricard , Lohoff Tim , Krueger Felix , Drage Deborah , Göttgens Berthold , Marioni John C. , Nichols Jennifer , Reik Wolf
Published: September 2022

Background

Perturbation of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and of the active DNA demethylation pathway via ten-eleven translocation (TET) methylcytosine dioxygenases results in severe developmental defects and embryonic lethality. Dynamic control of DNA methylation is therefore vital for embryogenesis, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

Results

Here we report a single-cell transcriptomic atlas from Dnmt and Tet mutant mouse embryos during early organogenesis. We show that both the maintenance and de novo methyltransferase enzymes are dispensable for the formation of all major cell types at E8.5. However, DNA methyltransferases are required for silencing of prior or alternative cell fates such as pluripotency and extraembryonic programmes. Deletion of all three TET enzymes produces substantial lineage biases, in particular, a failure to generate primitive erythrocytes. Single-cell multi-omics profiling moreover reveals that this is linked to a failure to demethylate distal regulatory elements in Tet triple-knockout embryos.

Conclusions

This study provides a detailed analysis of the effects of perturbing DNA methylation on mouse organogenesis at a whole organism scale and affords new insights into the regulatory mechanisms of cell fate decisions.
Adapting field-mosquito collection techniques in a perspective of near-infrared spectroscopy implementation
Authors: Somé Bernard Mouonniba , Da Dari F. , McCabe Ruth , Djègbè Nicaise Denis C. , Paré Lawata Inès Géraldine , Wermé Kadidia , Mouline Karine , Lefèvre Thierry , Ouédraogo Anicet Georges , Churcher Thomas S. , Dabiré Roch Kounbobr
Published: September 2022

Background

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has the potential to be a useful tool for assessing key entomological parameters of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes, including age, infectious status and species identity. However, before NIRS can be reliably used in the field at scale, methods for killing mosquitoes and conserving samples prior to NIRS scanning need to be further optimized. Historically, mosquitoes used in studies have been killed with chloroform, although this approach is not without health hazards and should not be used in human dwellings. For the application of NIRS scanning it is also unclear which mosquito preservation method to use. The aim of the study reported here was to investigate the use of pyrethrum spray, a commercially available insecticide spray in Burkina Faso, for killing mosquitoes

Methods

Laboratory-reared Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles coluzzii were killed using either a pyrethrum insecticide spray routinely used in studies involving indoor mosquito collections (Kaltox Paalga®; Saphyto, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso) or chloroform (“gold standard”). Preservative methods were also investigated to determine their impact on NIRS accuracy in predicting the species of laboratory-reared Anopheles and wild-caught mosquito species. After analysis of fresh samples, mosquitoes were stored in 80% ethanol or in silica gel for 2 weeks and re-analyzed by NIRS. In addition, experimentally infected An. coluzzii and wild-caught An. gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) were scanned as fresh samples to determine whether they contained sporozoites, then stored in the preservatives mentioned above for 2 weeks before being re-analyzed.

Results

The difference in the accuracy of NIRS to differentiate between laboratory-reared An. gambiae mosquitoes and An. coluzzii mosquitoes killed with either insecticide (90%) or chloroform (92%) was not substantial. NIRS had an accuracy of 90% in determining mosquito species for mosquitoes killed with chloroform and preserved in ethanol or silica gel. The accuracy was the same when the pyrethrum spray was used to kill mosquitoes followed by preservation in silica gel, but was lower when ethanol was used as a preservative (80%). Regarding infection status, NIRS was able to differentiate between infected and uninfected mosquitoes, with a slightly lower accuracy for both laboratory and wild-caught mosquitoes preserved in silica gel or ethanol.

Conclusions

The results show that NIRS can be used to classify An. gambiae s.l. species killed by pyrethrum spray with no loss of accuracy. This insecticide may have practical advantages over chloroform for the killing of mosquitoes in NIRS analysis.

Graphical Abstract
Prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic in children: a review and suggested solutions
Authors: Karbasi Zahra , Eslami Parisa
Published: September 2022

Background

The outbreak of coronavirus began in China in December 2019. It became a pandemic and a public health emergency. There have been numerous reports related to post-traumatic stress disorder outbreaks in the COVID-19 crisis. After a natural disaster, children are at a higher risk for post-traumatic stress disorder. The current study is a review of the scientific literature on the effect of COVID-19 on the prevalence of symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in children.

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases until February 02, 2022. The search strategy was based on a combination of the following keywords “child,” “COVID-19,” and “post-traumatic stress disorder.”

Results

By searching the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases, 173 articles were retrieved. After reviewing the inclusion criteria and in terms of eligibility, 10 articles met the inclusion criteria out of the remaining 46 articles. Based on the findings, 80% of the articles were cross-sectional and 20% of them were longitudinal. The articles reviewed in this study reported an increase in the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder in children during or after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions

In summary, the findings of this review showed that restrictions and fears of COVID-19 had negative psychological effects on children. As well, one of the most important issues that arose at the time of the tragedy was that children were suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Given that post-traumatic stress disorder can be treated, it is essential to choose the appropriate therapeutic intervention approach in order to better deal with the negative effects in children.
Expression of GLUT4 and FAP in urothelial bladder carcinoma: correlation with angiogenesis and clinicopathological characteristics
Authors: Abd El-Azeem Marwa A. , Ali Mona A. , El-Shorbagy Safinaz H.
Published: September 2022

Background

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is the most common type of bladder cancer. Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) is one of glucose transporter proteins’ family which facilitates glucose transport inside the cells. It was found to be overexpressed in several malignant tumors. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are heterogeneous stromal cells located adjacent to cancer cells and are considered one of the most important tumor stromal cells. They have been associated with enhancing tumor growth and invasion. GLUT4 expression in malignant epithelial cells and fibroblast activation protein (FAP) expression in CAFs of UC in relation to angiogenesis and clinicopathological characteristics are studied in this work.

Materials and methods

The study was carried out on 72 paraffin blocks of UC (27 radical cystectomies and 45 transurethral resections). Immunohistochemical staining was performed with GLUT4, FAP, and CD34 antibodies. Expression of GLUT4 and FAP was classified according to the staining intensities and percentages into low and high groups. CD34-stained microvessels’ mean count in five microscopic fields (×200) was taken as the microvessel density (MVD).

Results

GLUT4 overexpression was detected in 32 UC. It was significantly associated with high-grade tumors, advanced primary tumor (pT) stage, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and regional lymph node invasion. High FAP expression was appreciated in 27 UC and was significantly linked to LVI and advanced TNM staging. Intratumor MVD significantly increased in UC with muscle invasion, LVI, and regional lymph node and/or distant metastasis. A significant positive correlation between GLUT4, FAP expression, and MVD was found.

Conclusion

GLUT4 and FAP expression was significantly associated with increased intratumor MVD and adverse clinicopathological factors.
The Promise of Well-Being Interventions to Mitigate Physician Burnout During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond
Authors: Saatcioglu Fahri , Cirit Burcu , Koprucu Suzer Gayem
Published: September 2022

The high degree of burnout in physicians, including oncologists, is detrimental to physicians themselves, their families, patients, health care organizations, and the health care systems as a whole. This dire situation has significantly worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is well established that both organizational and individual measures are urgently needed to mitigate the negative consequences of physician burnout. Here, we review the research that has begun to indicate potential evidence-based individual approaches to promote physician well-being. We give an overview of these emerging programs and their importance, provide an example from our own experience, and enumerate considerations for future research. We also discuss the need for developing new approaches that are evidence-based and the best ways in which they can be incorporated in the health care setting. When judiciously combined with organizational approaches, preferentially as an integral part of them, individual wellness programs for physicians are poised to contribute significantly toward the much needed relief from physician burnout.
Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering Applications and Current Updates in the Field: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Eldeeb Alaa Emad , Salah Salwa , Elkasabgy Nermeen A.
Published: September 2022

Tissue engineering has emerged as an interesting field nowadays; it focuses on accelerating the auto-healing mechanism of tissues rather than organ transplantation. It involves implanting anIn Vitrocultured initiative tissue or a scaffold loaded with tissue regenerating ingredients at the damaged area. Both techniques are based on the use of biodegradable,biocompatible polymers as scaffolding materials which are either derived from natural (e.g. alginates, celluloses, and zein) or synthetic sources (e.g. PLGA, PCL, and PLA). This review discusses in detail the recent applications of different biomaterials in tissue engineering highlighting the targeted tissues besides thein vitroandin vivokey findings. As well, smart biomaterials (e.g. chitosan) are fascinating candidates in the field as they are capable of elucidating a chemical or physical transformation as response to external stimuli (e.g. temperature, pH, magnetic or electric fields). Recent trends in tissue engineering are summarized in this review highlighting the use of stem cells, 3D printing techniques, and the most recent 4D printing approach which relies on the use of smart biomaterials to produce a dynamic scaffold resembling the natural tissue. Furthermore, the application of advanced tissue engineering techniques provides hope for the researchers to recognize COVID-19/host interaction, also, it presents a promising solution to rejuvenate the destroyed lung tissues.

Graphical abstract
Pressure-induced decomposition of cadmium iodide
Authors: Xu Zhenzhen , Rui Qi , Geng Yanlei , Li Jianfu , Wang Qinglin , Wang Xiaoli
Published: September 2022

A static pressure-induced decomposition of cadmium iodide into cadmium and iodine solids is reported in this work using a structure prediction approach combined with first-principles calculations. By compression, CdI2 decomposes into Cd and I at 61.5 GPa, which goes against the common intuition that applying pressure makes the material stable and dense. The increase in the

term and

with pressure between the compound and the element contributes to the increase in the enthalpy difference, leading to the decomposition of CdI2. On the other hand, the analyses of interatomic interaction demonstrate that under the action of pressure, the decrease of charge transfer between atoms leads to the decrease of the Coulomb interaction, which finally induces CdI2 to decompose into Cd and I solids. Our work represents a significant step toward an understanding of the high-pressure behaviors of Cd-I systems and draws attention to the influence of pressure parameters in certain materials.
The Molecular Determinants of Glucagon-like Peptide Secretion by the Intestinal L cell
Authors: Brubaker Patricia L
Published: September 2022

The intestinal L cell secretes a diversity of biologically active hormones, most notably the glucagon-like peptides, GLP-1 and GLP-2. The highly successful introduction of GLP-1-based drugs into the clinic for the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity, and of a GLP-2 analog for patients with short bowel syndrome, has led to the suggestion that stimulation of the endogenous secretion of these peptides may serve as a novel therapeutic approach in these conditions. Situated in the intestinal epithelium, the L cell demonstrates complex relationships with not only circulating, paracrine, and neural regulators, but also ingested nutrients and other factors in the lumen, most notably the microbiota. The integrated input from these numerous secretagogues results in a variety of temporal patterns in L cell secretion, ranging from minutes to 24 hours. This review combines the findings of traditional, physiological studies with those using newer molecular approaches to describe what is known and what remains to be elucidated after 5 decades of research on the intestinal L cell and its secreted peptides, GLP-1 and GLP-2.
Irish Canallers and the Second Slavery in the Lower Mississippi Valley
Authors: Regan Joe
Published: September 2022

This article explores the lower Mississippi valley's antebellum history to uncover the role of Irish immigrant laborers in the riverine economy of the Cotton Kingdom. In particular, this article examines the experience of Irish laborers as canallers and ditchers on plantations and internal improvement projects, which drew thousands of Irish immigrants into the interior of the Mississippi valley in the decades before the American Civil War. Scholars will better understand the experience of these Irish laborers through the lens of “the second slavery,” which helps point the way to a broader comprehension of the employment of free labor in the antebellum South. This article demonstrates that Irish immigrants were a manifestation of the labor demands of the second slavery, and through their toil, they helped ensure that US cotton reached the global market.
Duration of Prophylactic Levetiracetam After Surgery for Brain Tumor: A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Rahman Maryam , Eisenschenk Stephan , Melnick Kaitlyn , Wang Yu , Heaton Shelley , Ghiaseddin Ashley , Hodik Marcia , McGrew Nina , Smith Jessica , Murad Greg , Roper Steven , Cibula Jean
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND:

Levetiracetam is commonly used as a prophylactic antiseizure medication in patients undergoing surgical resection of brain tumors.

OBJECTIVE:

To quantitate side effects experienced in patients treated with 1 week vs 6 weeks of prophylactic levetiracetam using validated measures for neurotoxicity and depression.

METHODS:

Patients undergoing surgical resection of a supratentorial tumor with no seizure history were randomized within 48 hours of surgery to receive prophylactic levetiracetam for the duration of either 1 or 6 weeks. Patients were given oral levetiracetam extended release 1000 mg during the first part of this study. Owing to drug backorder, patients enrolled later in this study received levetiracetam 500 mg BID. The primary outcome was the change in the neurotoxicity score 6 weeks after drug initiation. The secondary outcome was seizure incidence.

RESULTS:

A total of 81 patients were enrolled and randomized to 1 week (40 patients) or 6 weeks (41 patients) of prophylactic levetiracetam treatment. The neurotoxicity score slightly improved in the overall cohort between baseline and reassessment. There was no significant difference between groups in neurotoxicity or depression scores. Seizure incidence was low in the entire cohort of patients with 1 patient in each arm experiencing a seizure during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION:

The use of prophylactic levetiracetam did not result in significant neurotoxicity or depression when given for either 1 week or 6 weeks. The incidence of seizure after craniotomy for tumor resection is low regardless of duration of therapy.
A GESTÃO ANTIDISCRIMINATÓRIA NO DIREITO PROCESSUAL CIVIL E OS POVOS INDÍGENAS
Authors: Sousa Raffaela Cássia de , Rios Roger Raupp
Published: September 2022

Objetivo: O objetivo do presente artigo é investigar a existência de deveres antidiscriminatórios na gestão judicial de processos, que envolvem povos indígenas, a partir da análise do Código de Processo Civil de 2015. Diante disso, a hipótese apresentada é que, para além das normas de direito material, as normas processuais também devem respeitar os deveres antidiscriminatórios.Metodologia: Como metodologia, adota-se uma abordagem qualitativa, por meio de revisão da literatura especializada e de legislação.Resultados: Conclui-se que o Direito Processual Civil brasileiro, ao adotar a gestão processual cooperativa, com o gerenciamento de processos judiciais pelo magistrado, agrega os deveres antidiscriminatórios também dentro das normas processuais, permitindo a adequação do processo às especificidades dos povos indígenas, expressando o mandamento de igualdade previsto na Constituição e realçando a discriminação étnica como critério proibido do direito da antidiscriminação.Contribuições: O artigo contribui para a reflexão de que os deveres antidiscriminatórios, para além das normas materiais, alcançam também a norma processual e de que o gerenciamento de processos (gestão intraprocessual) é um importante instrumento para garantir a igualdade de posições processuais para os povos indígenas.
Characterization of different populations of Artemia spp. (Crustacea, Anostraca)
Authors: Τριανταφυλλίδης Γεώργιος
Published: September 2022

Πληθυσμοί της γαρίδας της άλμης Artemia (Crustacea, Anostraca) κατοικούν σε υπέραλα περιβάλλοντα και βρίσκονται σε όλες τις ηπείρους εκτός από την Ανταρκτική. Το γένος αποτελείται από έναν αριθμό ειδών, μερικά από τα οποία αναπαράγονται σεξουαλικά, άλλα ασεξουαλικά, με διάφορα επίπεδα πλοειδίας να εμφανίζονται μεταξύ των παρθενογενετικών πληθυσμών. Η Artemia μπορεί να ανεχθεί το μεγαλύτερο εύρος αλατότητας από οποιοδήποτε γνωστό μεταζώο. Έχει την ικανότητα να παράγει είτε ναυπλίους (ωοζωοτόκος αναπαραγωγή) είτε κύστεις (ωοτόκος αναπαραγωγή). Οι κύστεις είναι ικανές για παρατεταμένη διάπαυση (μία ενδογενή αδρανή μεταβολική κατάσταση) που μπορούν να εξασφαλίσουν την επιβίωση του οργανισμού κάτω από εξαιρετικά αντίξοες συνθήκες. Η Artemia είναι ένας δημοφιλής οργανισμός ως πειραματικό υλικό και χρησιμοποιείται ευρέως τόσο στην εφαρμοσμένη όσο και στη βασική έρευνα. Ο απαραίτητος ρόλος του ως ζωντανή τροφή για την καλλιέργεια ψαριών και οστρακοειδών οδήγησε σε κατανάλωση 2.000 τόνων κύστεων και 10.000 τόνων βιομάζας το 1994.Η διατριβή αυτή αποτελείται από 6 Ενότητες και 13 Κεφάλαια, κάθε ένα από τα οποία αποτελεί μια αυτοτελή δημοσίευση που είτε είχε γίνει δεκτή προς δημοσίευση (οι 9) όταν υποστηρίχτηκε ενώ οι 4 είχαν υποβληθεί σε περιοδικά και δημοσιεύτηκαν λίγο καιρό μετά την υποστήριξή της.
Neoplatonic love
Authors: Βασιλάκης Δημήτριος
Published: September 2022

Η παρούσα διατριβή εξετάζει την έννοια του έρωτος σε κείμενα των Νεοπλατωνικών φιλοσόφων Πλωτίνου (204/5–270 μ.Χ.), Πρόκλου (περ.412–485 μ.Χ.) και του συγγραφέα των Αρεοπαγιτικών (ύεστερος 5ος - πρώιμος 6ος αι.). Στο πρώτο κεφάλαιο αναλύω την πραγματεία που ο Πλωτίνος αφιερώνει στον έρωτα (Ενν., ΙΙΙ.5) και επιχειρώ να αναδείξω την οντολογική σημασία του έρωτα στο πλωτινικό σύστημα. Κατά τον Πλωτίνο μια οντότητα (π.χ. η Ψυχή) είναι/υπάρχει στο μέτρο που είναι ερωτική, δηλ. κατά τον προσανατολισμό της προς το νοητό σύμπαν. Επομένως, ένα από τα συμπεράσματά μου είναι ότι ο Έρως συνεπάγεται ένδεια, και, συνεπώς, λαμβάνει χώρα σε ένα κάθετα σχήμα, όπου μια κατώτερη οντότητα χαρακτηρίζεται από έρωτα για τον ανώτερό της προπάτορα. Σε αυτήν την περίπτωση ο Πρόκλος φαίνεται να αφίσταται αρκετά από τον Πλωτίνο, καθώς στα Σχόλια στον Πρώτο Αλκιβιάδη ο Πρόκλος αναφέρει ξεκάθαρα ότι οι κατώτερες οντότητες έχωουν επιστρεπτικό (ανοδικό) έρωτα για τις ανώτερες, ενώ οι δεύτερες χαρακτηρίζονται από προνοητικό (καθοδικό) έρωτα για τις κατώτερες. Επομένως, το διακύβευμα του δεύτερου κεφαλαίου αφορά στην ανάλυση της πρόκλειας τοποθέτησης, προκειμένου να καταδείξω ότι στην ουσία ο Πρόκλος δεν αφίσταται μακράν του Πλωτίνου: ο πρώτος αναπτύσσει στοιχεία που υφίστανται, έστω και υπαινικτικά, στον δεύτερο. Το πρώτο μέρος της συζήτησής μου υπογραμμίζει την ηθική πτυχή του θέματος, ενώ στο δεύτερο ασχολούμαι με τη μεταφυσική πλευρά. Τέλος, στο τρίτο κεφάλαιο προσεγγίζω την παρουσίαση του (ψ.)-Διονυσίου για τον Θεό ως Έρωτα στο έργο του Περί θείων ονομάτων. Ένα από τα κίνιτρά μου ήταν το ατυχές συμπέρασμα αρκετών παλαιότερων και ενίων πρόσφατων και συγχρόνων μελετητών σχετικά με τον Αρεοπαγίτη ως αντιγραφέα του Πρόκλου (στα όρια της λογοκλοπής). Η εξέταση του Έρωτα αποτελεί μια χαρακτηριστική περίπτωση, όπου κανείς μπορεί να ψηλαφίσει τόσο της ομοιότητες, όσο και της διαφοροποιήσεις του Αρεοπαγίτη από τον Πρόκλο. Με τη αρωγή πιο πρόσφατης βιβλιογραφίας, μπορούμε με ασφάλεια να προτείνουμε ότι ο Διονύσιος χρησιμοποιεί περισσότερο πρόκλεια γλώσσα και σχήματα (π.χ. προνοητικός και επιστρεπτικός έρως), παρά πρόκλειες οντολογικές αρχές, πράγμα που σχετίζεται με τις οντολογικές προϋποθέσεις που διαφοροποιούν τον νεοπλατωνικό φιλόσοφο από τον εκκλησιαστικό πατέρα. Στη διαδρομή αυτή, πάντως, ο Πρόκλος αποτελεί μια γέφυρα μεταξύ παγανιστικού νεοπλατωνισμού (Πλωτίνου) και χριστιανικής φιλοσοφίας (Αρεοπαγίτης).