bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consequências do mal armazenamento e descarte incorreto de medicamentos
Authors: Barbosa Evellyn Alexandra Lima Ferreira , Mendonça Emilly Sarah de Oliveira , Pontes Neto João Gomes
Published: June 2023

A facilidade de acesso aos medicamentos sempre contribuiu para o aumento do armazenamento inadequado e do descarte incorreto, inclusive em locais totalmente impróprios. A automedicação, desde os primórdios, tem sido uma prática comum na sociedade, trazendo malefícios também para o meio ambiente. Os resíduos de medicamentos contêm componentes químicos resistentes que podem contaminar o solo e a água. O armazenamento em locais de fácil acesso representa o risco de uso incorreto, resultando em intoxicações. Os grupos mais suscetíveis a esses problemas são idosos e crianças. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo é descrever as principais consequências do armazenamento inadequado e do descarte incorreto de medicamentos, bem como os problemas que essa prática acarreta em termos de desequilíbrio ambiental e o surgimento de bactérias resistentes a antibióticos, resultando em problemas de saúde pública. Por meio de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, serão discutidos fatores que possam contribuir para um maior acesso da população a informações sobre como proceder corretamente com a conservação e o descarte consciente desses resíduos.
Monitoramento de integridade estrutural em rotores dinâmicos usando inteligência artificial com aprendizado continuado
Authors: Ferreira Robson Aparecido , Souza Simone Silva Frutuoso de , Lima Fernando Parra dos Anjos
Published: June 2023

Este artigo tem por objetivo o desenvolvimento de um algoritmo de inteligência artificial com aprendizado continuado, inspirado no funcionamento do sistema imunológico biológico, para realizar o monitoramento da integridade estrutural. Este algoritmo inteligente será desenvolvido empregando-se técnicas baseadas nos sistemas imunológicos artificiais (SIA), como o algoritmo de seleção negativa (ASN) e o algoritmo de seleção clonal (ASC). Os SIAs são técnicas promissoras no campo da inteligência artificial, e sua concepção é inspirada nos sistemas imunológicos biológicos, com o objetivo de reproduzir computacionalmente, suas principais características, propriedade, funcionalidades e habilidades. Os sistemas imunológicos artificiais constituem-se de poderosas ferramentas adequadas para realizar tarefas complexas, como diagnósticos, em consequência de ter como principal habilidade a capacidade de identificar mudanças comportamentais. Por ser uma arquitetura estável, confiável e adaptativa, permite a inclusão do módulo de aprendizagem continuada, o qual possibilita que o sistema absorva novas experiências e conhecimento sem a necessidade de reiniciar as células de memória (conhecimento). Deste modo, este sistema se tornará mais eficiente à medida que novas informações são processadas e disponibilizadas. Ou seja, trata-se de um sistema inteligente que busca o aperfeiçoamento com o passar o tempo. Está propriedade é uma vantagem dos SIAs, e deve ser destacada, pois, diferentemente do que ocorre com outras técnicas de inteligência artificial, como, por exemplo, as redes neurais artificiais (RNA), os SIA permitem a possibilidade da aprendizagem de forma contínua.
Ventosaterapia como tratamento complementar da enxaqueca: uma revisão sistemática
Authors: SIlva Jéssica Pena Lopes da , Cardoso Géssica da Silva , Silva Camila Etelvina de Sousa
Published: June 2023

A enxaqueca atinge cerca de 15% da população brasileira, sendo que 11% dos indivíduos relatam uma forma transitória da doença, com sintomas aliviados em até 48 horas. Diversas teorias foram propostas para explicar sua causa, incluindo o envolvimento do V par de nervos cranianos, bem como alterações neurogênicas e vasculares. Entre as técnicas utilizadas para tratar a dor e a inflamação, destaca-se a ventosaerapia, uma antiga prática originária da Ásia, aprimorada pela china. Essa técnica envolve a aplicação de copos de vidro, acrílico ou silicone sobre a pele, podendo ser seca ou úmida, em pontos de acupuntura, áreas dolorosas e pontos de gatilho. Com o objetivo de analisar a eficácia da ventosaterapia como tratamento complementar para enxaqueca, com foco na redução do consumo de medicamentos, foi realizada uma revisão sistemática. A pesquisa abrangeu as bases de dados BVS, PubMed e Science, a seleção dos artigos ocorreu em três etapas: título, resumo e leitura completa. Os estudos que respaldaram a aplicação da técnica foram incluídos na análise, e foi elaborada uma tabela PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) e um fluxograma PRISMA para justificar as exclusões e facilitar a coleta de dados. Embora haja poucos estudos sobre relacionados a ventosaterapia no tratamento da enxaqueca, os dados obtidos permitem observar sua eficácia. Destaca-se a ventosa úmida ou sangria como uma das técnicas mais promissoras, podendo ser utilizada por profissionais de saúde como ferramenta complementar na fisioterapia, com o intuito de reduzir a incapacidade causada pela intensa dor associada a essa condição.
SENTIMENT ANALYSIS ON LGBT ISSUES IN INDONESIA WITH LEXICON-BASED AND SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINE ALGORITHMS
Authors: Hoiriyah Hoiriyah , Qomariya Nurul , Darmawan Aang Kisnu , Walid Miftahul , Efenie Yuri
Published: June 2023

Non-heterosexual sexual orientation (LGBT) behavior today is one of the most pervasive issues in Indonesian culture. Because of its domino effect on social stability and physical and mental health, the phenomenon known as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) has always been under scrutiny. The development of LGBT people in Indonesia reflects cultural changes that concern many people. Freedom of speech for LGBT people on social media has many public implications. Observation of this phenomenon gives rise to views of anomalies and discrepancies that have drawn criticism. Various attempts have been made to prevent the movement of LGBT people. However, until now, many still debate the pros and cons of this LGBT movement. The lexicon-based method uses a support vector machine to classify public opinion in TikTok video comments about LGBT issues. The lexicon-based method is used as a weighting method, and the support vector machine method is used as a classification method. The results show that the highest gain in sentiment is neutral, with percentage values of 61%, 56%, 68%, 69%, and 63%. The second is positive sentiment, with percentage values of 27%, 27%, 20%, 20%, and 29%. The rest have negative sentiments. With a relatively high accuracy of the five data sets sequentially at 93%, 89%, 95%, 97%, and 91%. This shows that the majority of Indonesians prefer to ignore the issue.
Metabolic Syndrome in Hypertriglyceridemic Rats: Effects of Antioxidants
Authors: BRNOLIAKOVA Z , KNEZL V , SOTNIKOVA R , GASPAROVA Z
Published: June 2023

Long-lasting disturbances in lipid and glucose metabolism present in metabolic syndrome (MetS) lead to serious cardiovascular diseases. The study was aimed to evaluate the effect of natural antioxidant vitamin E (VitE, 100 mg/kg/day, p.o.) on basal biochemical and physiological parameters characterizing MetS and on the changed function of the heart. Furthermore, the possible potentiation of VitE effect by synthetic pyridoindole antioxidant SMe1EC2 (SMe, 15 mg/kg/day, p.o.) was also tested. MetS was induced in hereditary hypertriglyceridemic rats (HTG) by the 5 weeks administration of high-fat fructose diet (HFFD: 1 % cholesterol, 7.5 % pork lard, 10 % fructose). The heart function was tested using Langendorff preparation under constant pressure. The functional parameters of isolated heart, dysrhythmias and evoked fibrillations were evaluated in conditions of ischemia-reperfusion. The HFFD increased body weight gain and serum levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins and blood glucose. The HFFD significantly increased heart flow and force of contraction, compared to standard diet (SD). During the reperfusion, the HFFD caused the increase of the ventricular premature beats number at the expense of decreasing the duration of serious dysrhythmias (ventricular tachycardias and fibrillations). The addition of VitE, SMe or their combination to the HFFD decreased body weight gain, depressed blood pressure, improved particular biochemical parameters. The combination of VitE and SMe suppressed the occurrence of serious dysrhythmias. Our data indicate that the HFFD-related disturbances led to alterations within pathophysiology in HTG rats. The results showed that a combination of antioxidants might have the potential to amend disorders accompanying MetS.
Tubal Stump Ectopic Pregnancy with Acute Abdomen: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Soysal Cenk , Erten Özlem
Published: June 2023

Ectopic pregnancy, characterized by the implantation of the gestational sac outside the uterine cavity, is a grave condition. The objective of this study is to
report a case of recurrent ectopic pregnancy in the residual site of the same fallopian tube, which had undergone unilateral salpingectomy due to ectopic pregnancy
five years prior. Despite its rarity in the literature, tubal stump ectopic pregnancy poses higher risks of maternal mortality and morbidity compared to
other types of tubal ectopic pregnancies. It is important to note that a history of salpingectomy does not exclude the possibility of ipsilateral recurrent ectopic
pregnancy. Furthermore, this is the first documented case of stump tubal ectopic pregnancy from Turkey.
The clinical effectiveness of staple line reinforcement with different matrix used in surgery
Authors: Jing Wei , Huang Yiqian , Feng Jin , Li Hongyang , Yu Xueqiao , Zhao Bo , Wei Pengfei
Published: June 2023

Staplers are widely used in clinics; however, complications such as bleeding and leakage remain a challenge for surgeons. To tackle this issue, buttress materials are recommended to reinforce the staple line. This Review provides a systematic summary of the characteristics and applications of the buttress materials. First, the physical and chemical properties of synthetic polymer materials and extracellular matrix used for the buttress materials are introduced, as well as their pros and cons in clinical applications. Second, we review the clinical effects of reinforcement mesh in pneumonectomy, sleeve gastrectomy, pancreatectomy, and colorectal resection. Based on the analysis of numerous research data, we believe that buttress materials play a crucial role in increasing staple line strength and reducing the probability of complications, such as bleeding and leakage. However, considering the requirements of bioactivity, degradability, and biosafety, non-crosslinked small intestinal submucosa (SIS) matrix material is the preferred candidate. It has high research and application value, but further studies are required to confirm this. The aim of this Review is to provide comprehensive guidance on the selection of materials for staple line reinforcement.
Defining the ligand-dependent proximatome of the sigma 1 receptor
Authors: Zhao Jing , Veeranan-Karmegam Rajalakshmi , Baker Frederick C. , Mysona Barbara A. , Bagchi Pritha , Liu Yutao , Smith Sylvia B. , Gonsalvez Graydon B. , Bollinger Kathryn E.
Published: June 2023

Sigma 1 Receptor (S1R) is a therapeutic target for a wide spectrum of pathological conditions ranging from neurodegenerative diseases to cancer and COVID-19. S1R is ubiquitously expressed throughout the visceral organs, nervous, immune and cardiovascular systems. It is proposed to function as a ligand-dependent molecular chaperone that modulates multiple intracellular signaling pathways. The purpose of this study was to define the S1R proximatome under native conditions and upon binding to well-characterized ligands. This was accomplished by fusing the biotin ligase, Apex2, to the C terminus of S1R. Cells stably expressing S1R-Apex or a GFP-Apex control were used to map proximal proteins. Biotinylated proteins were labeled under native conditions and in a ligand dependent manner, then purified and identified using quantitative mass spectrometry. Under native conditions, S1R biotinylates over 200 novel proteins, many of which localize within the endomembrane system (endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, secretory vesicles) and function within the secretory pathway. Under conditions of cellular exposure to either S1R agonist or antagonist, results show enrichment of proteins integral to secretion, extracellular matrix formation, and cholesterol biosynthesis. Notably, Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) displays increased binding to S1R under conditions of treatment with Haloperidol, a well-known S1R antagonist; whereas Low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) binds more efficiently to S1R upon treatment with (+)-Pentazocine ((+)-PTZ), a classical S1R agonist. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the ligand bound state of S1R correlates with specific changes to the cellular secretome. Our results are consistent with the postulated role of S1R as an intracellular chaperone and further suggest important and novel functionalities related to secretion and cholesterol metabolism.
Textural effect of Pt catalyst layers with different carbon supports on internal oxygen diffusion during oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Ma Zhejie , Zhao Xuankai , Zhou Liheng , Yang Liu , Li Ping
Published: June 2023

One way to address the cost issue of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is to reduce the amount of platinum used in the cathode catalyst layers (CLs). The oxygen mass transfer resistance of the cathode CLs is the main bottleneck limiting the polarization performance of low Pt-loading membrane electrodes at high current densities. Pt nanoparticles, ionomers, carbon supports, and water in cathode CLs can all affect their oxygen mass transfer resistance. From the perspective of carbon supports, this paper changed the texture of CLs by adding carbon nanotubes (CNTs) or graphene oxide (GO) into carbon black (XC72) and studied its impact on the oxygen mass transfer resistance. A mathematical model was adopted to correlate total mass transfer resistance and internal diffusion efficiency factor with CL structure parameters in order to determine the dominant textural effect of a CL. The results show that adding 30%CNT or 20GO to carbon black of XC72 improved the electrocatalytic performance and mass transfer capability of the composite carbon-supported Pt catalyst layers during oxygen reduction reaction. The study further reveals that the smaller particle-sized carbon material with tiny Pt nanoparticles deposition can minimize the internal oxygen diffusion resistance. A less dense CL structure can reduce the oxygen transfer resistance through the secondary pores. The conclusion obtained can provide guidance for the rational design of optimal cathode CLs of PEMFCs.
Stagnation arising through intermittent usage is associated with increased viable but non culturable Legionella and amoeba hosts in a hospital water system
Authors: Nisar Muhammad Atif , Ros Kirstin E. , Brown Melissa H. , Bentham Richard , Best Giles , Xi James , Hinds Jason , Whiley Harriet
Published: June 2023

Hospital water systems are a significant source of Legionella, resulting in the potentially fatal Legionnaires’ disease. One of the biggest challenges for Legionella management within these systems is that under unfavorable conditions Legionella transforms itself into a viable but non culturable (VBNC) state that cannot be detected using the standard methods. This study used a novel method (flow cytometry-cell sorting and qPCR [VFC+qPCR] assay) concurrently with the standard detection methods to examine the effect of temporary water stagnation, on Legionella spp. and microbial communities present in a hospital water system. Water samples were also analyzed for amoebae using culture and Vermamoeba vermiformis and Acanthamoeba specific qPCR. The water temperature, number and duration of water flow events for the hand basins and showers sampled was measured using the Enware Smart Flow® monitoring system. qPCR analysis demonstrated that 21.8% samples were positive for Legionella spp., 21% for L. pneumophila, 40.9% for V. vermiformis and 4.2% for Acanthamoeba. All samples that were Legionella spp. positive using qPCR (22%) were also positive for VBNC Legionella spp.; however, only 2.5% of samples were positive for culturable Legionella spp. 18.1% of the samples were positive for free-living amoebae (FLA) using culture. All samples positive for Legionella spp. were also positive for FLA. Samples with a high heterotrophic plate count (HPC ≥ 5 × 103 CFU/L) were also significantly associated with high concentrations of Legionella spp. DNA, VBNC Legionella spp./L. pneumophila (p < 0.01) and V. vermiformis (p < 0.05). Temporary water stagnation arising through intermittent usage (< 2 hours of usage per month) significantly (p < 0.01) increased the amount of Legionella spp. DNA, VBNC Legionella spp./L. pneumophila, and V. vermiformis; however, it did not significantly impact the HPC load. In contrast to stagnation, no relationship was observed between the microbes and water temperature. In conclusion, Legionella spp. (DNA and VBNC) was associated with V. vermiformis, heterotrophic bacteria, and stagnation occurring through intermittent usage. This is the first study to monitor VBNC Legionella spp. within a hospital water system. The high percentage of false negative Legionella spp. results provided by the culture method supports the use of either qPCR or VFC+qPCR to monitor Legionella spp. contamination within hospital water systems.
Burnout prevalence in medical students attending a team-based learning school
Authors: Kushida Simone Sayuri , Troster Eduardo Juan
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Worldwide burnout prevalence among medical students is high. It has a negative impact on students’ personal and professional lives as well as on their psychosocial wellbeing and academic performance. It can result in physicians with emotional distancing and indifference to work, and it compromises the quality of healthcare offered to society. This study evaluates burnout in medical students selected by mini-multiple interviews (MMIs) who were being taught by the team-based learning (TBL) method. MMIs are often used to select students with soft skills for medicine, and TBL is related to greater academic achievement, which would allow students to have greater resilience to stress. Information on burnout occurrence is lacking for this type of student.

Methods

Students (N = 143) attending the first three semesters at a private medical school were evaluated. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory—Student Version (CBI-SV) questionnaire was applied on three occasions (applications = Apps one, two, and three) in each semester. Scores ≥ 50 were considered to indicate burnout. Data were analyzed by statistics programs.

Results

Personal-related and study-related burnout frequencies for 1st semester students were, respectively, 24.4 and 22% in App one and rose to 51 and 48.5% at the semester’s end. Second- and third-semester students’ frequencies reached 80.4 and 78.8%, respectively. Around 40% of 1st semester students having burnout at App one maintained the burnout score. Peer- and teacher-related burnout frequencies are low (4.9 and 2.4%) at the 1st semester App one and rose to the highest (24–30%) by the end of the 2nd semester. Woman students had significantly higher burnout frequencies in the personal- (p < 0.001) and study-related burnout subscales (p = 0.003). Students living with friends had lower study-related burnout scores than those living with family or alone (p = 0.024). There were no significant correlations between the burnout scores and tuition funding (partial or total) or having or not having religious faith.

Discussion

The prevalence of personal- and study-related burnout among medical students of the Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein (FICSAE), perceived via mini-multiple interviews (MMI)—selected and team-based learning (TBL)—taught, was similar to those internationally reported. The college semester and the gender of woman were associated with worse burnout levels. Additional studies are needed to support more effective actions to reduce the impact of stress on students.
Academic parenthood in the United Arab Emirates in the time of COVID-19
Authors: Dickson Martina , Midraj Jessica , Al Hakmani Rehab , McMinn Melissa , Elsori Deena , Alhashmi Mariam , Tedam Prospera
Published: June 2023

Since the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic, early research already indicates that the personal and professional impact on academics juggling parenting responsibilities with their academic work has been immense. This study, set in the United Arab Emirates, explores the experiences of academic parents and looks at ways in which various aspects of their professional lives have been affected by the pandemic. Survey data from 93 participant parents indicated that certain elements of research productivity have been reduced during the pandemic, and having to support children with online schoolwork while teaching online themselves has been particularly stressful. Working from home with no dedicated space was a frequent challenge for the academic parents, and this impacted their ability to perform research tasks that demanded quiet spaces, e.g., reading and writing. However, the data also indicated that parents appreciated greater working flexibility, a reduction in commuting time, and being able to be more involved in their family lives. Some indications were perhaps unexpected, such as no statistically significant impact being observed on academic parents’ ability to interact with students or peers at their institutions while working from home. The implications of these findings to faculty and institutions are discussed.
Ecological stoichiometric characteristics of three dominant fish species from the Beibu Gulf: inter- and intraspecific variations
Authors: Wang Caiguang , Zhu Liang , Huang Liangliang , Xu Hao , Xu Peng , He Xiongbo , Yan Yunrong , Yang Xi , Shahab Asfandyar , Kang Bin
Published: June 2023

In this study we explore the inter- and intraspecific variations in the ecological stoichiometry of three dominant fish species [Saurida tumbil (n = 33), Pennahia macrocephalus (n = 34), and Upeneus sulphureus (n = 32)] from the Beibu Gulf, the contents of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), δ13C, and δ15N in fishes were analyzed. Results illustrated that the ranges of elemental variations (C, N, P, and Ca) in the three fishes were 36.73∼49.24%, 8.79∼13.99%, 1.11∼2.78%, and 1.16∼4.58%, respectively while P content varied the most, resulting in variations in C:P and N:P in fishes. Correlation analysis determined the association among various parameters and illustrated that Ca content was significantly positively correlated with P content, which indicated that P content variation was attributed to the formation of fish bones and scales. The C, N, and P contents and their ratios were significantly correlated with body length and δ13C in the three fishes, indicating that the changes in C:N:P concentrations are due to individual development and food sources. Significant inter- and intraspecific differences in the body stoichiometry of the three fishes were found in this study, mainly due to differences in body size and diet. The aquatic organisms underwent individual development fluctuations in morphology and diet, which consequently altered their stoichiometric features.
Population genomic analysis reveals geographic structure and climatic diversification for Macrophomina phaseolina isolated from soybean and dry bean across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Colombia
Authors: Ortiz Viviana , Chang Hao-Xun , Sang Hyunkyu , Jacobs Janette , Malvick Dean K. , Baird Richard , Mathew Febina M. , Estévez de Jensen Consuelo , Wise Kiersten A. , Mosquera Gloria M. , Chilvers Martin I.
Published: June 2023

Macrophomina phaseolina causes charcoal rot, which can significantly reduce yield and seed quality of soybean and dry bean resulting from primarily environmental stressors. Although charcoal rot has been recognized as a warm climate-driven disease of increasing concern under global climate change, knowledge regarding population genetics and climatic variables contributing to the genetic diversity of M. phaseolina is limited. This study conducted genome sequencing for 95 M. phaseolina isolates from soybean and dry bean across the continental United States, Puerto Rico, and Colombia. Inference on the population structure using 76,981 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) revealed that the isolates exhibited a discrete genetic clustering at the continental level and a continuous genetic differentiation regionally. A majority of isolates from the United States (96%) grouped in a clade with a predominantly clonal genetic structure, while 88% of Puerto Rican and Colombian isolates from dry bean were assigned to a separate clade with higher genetic diversity. A redundancy analysis (RDA) was used to estimate the contributions of climate and spatial structure to genomic variation (11,421 unlinked SNPs). Climate significantly contributed to genomic variation at a continental level with temperature seasonality explaining the most variation while precipitation of warmest quarter explaining the most when spatial structure was accounted for. The loci significantly associated with multivariate climate were found closely to the genes related to fungal stress responses, including transmembrane transport, glycoside hydrolase activity and a heat-shock protein, which may mediate climatic adaptation for M. phaseolina. On the contrary, limited genome-wide differentiation among populations by hosts was observed. These findings highlight the importance of population genetics and identify candidate genes of M. phaseolina that can be used to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that underly climatic adaptation to the changing climate.
Hypofractionated radiotherapy with immunochemotherapy for extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Liu Chaoyuan , Zeng Liang , Deng Chao , Jiang Wenjuan , Wang Yapeng , Zhou Yiguang , Liu Li , Wang Sisi , Zhou Chunhua , Qiu Zhenhua , Zeng Fanxu , Wu Fang , Weng Jie , Liu Xianling , Yang Nong , Ma Fang
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The combination of a PD-L1 inhibitor plus carboplatin/cisplatin and etoposide (EC/EP) has become a new standard first-line treatment for extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). Combining concurrent palliative hypofractionated radiotherapy of the thorax (HFRT) and immunochemotherapy may have a synergistic effect. In this study, we explored an optimal model of combination radiotherapy with immunochemotherapy as first-line treatment of ES-SCLC.

Patients and methods

In this multicenter single-arm phase 2 trial, patients with ES-SCLC received atezolizumab with EC/EP for two cycles (induction phase), then, those who did not progress received concurrent palliative HFRT and two cycles of atezolizumab with EC/EP (combination phase). Afterward they received atezolizumab every 3 weeks for a maximum of 2 years after study enrolment (maintenance phase). Prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) was recommended. The primary endpoints were safety and tolerance; the second endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS).

Results

Forty patients were enrolled, and all had completed palliative HFRT and four cycles of immunochemotherapy. There were seven grade 3 adverse events (3 decreased neutrophil count, 1 anemia, 2 pneumonitis, 1 esoenteritis), two grade 4 adverse events (2 decreased white cell count) and no grade 5 toxicities. The pneumonitis rate was 12.5% (three grade 2 and two grade 3 events). At the median follow-up of 14.2 months (range, 6.8–28.7), the median PFS was 8.6 months (95%CI, 6.1–11.1).

Conclusion

The addition of concurrent hypofractionated thoracic radiotherapy to first-line immunochemotherapy for ES-SCLC was well tolerated and showed promising clinical efficacy. Additional randomized trials are needed to validate benefits.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ (NCT 04636762).
Fetal-maternal interactions during pregnancy: a ‘three-in-one’ perspective
Authors: Zhang Yonghong , Liu Zhaozhao , Sun Haixiang
Published: June 2023

A successful human pregnancy requires the maternal immune system to recognize and tolerate the semi-allogeneic fetus, allowing for appropriate trophoblasts invasion and protecting the fetus from invading pathogens. Therefore, maternal immunity is critical for the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy, especially at the maternal-fetal interface. Anatomically, the maternal-fetal interface has both maternally- and fetally- derived cells, including fetal originated trophoblasts and maternal derived immune cells and stromal cells. Besides, a commensal microbiota in the uterus was supposed to aid the unique immunity in pregnancy. The appropriate crosstalk between fetal derived and maternal originated cells and uterine microbiota are critical for normal pregnancy. Dysfunctional maternal-fetal interactions might be associated with the development of pregnancy complications. This review elaborates the latest knowledge on the interactions between trophoblasts and decidual immune cells, highlighting their critical roles in maternal-fetal tolerance and pregnancy development. We also characterize the role of commensal bacteria in promoting pregnancy progression. Furthermore, this review may provide new thought on future basic research and the development of clinical applications for pregnancy complications.
The success of ornamental coral propagation in Banyuwangi East Java, Indonesia: observation of different depths and species
Authors: Johan Ofri , Ginanjar Rendy , Budiyanto Agus , Ardi Idil , Priyadi Agus , Kunzmann Andreas
Published: June 2023

Ornamental corals have become the main attention objects for many hobbyists and have already become a source for foreign exchange in developing countries. Through ornamental coral propagation, the continuity of ornamental coral trade can be guaranteed and the level of damage is very limited. The propagation technique has been developed by ornamental coral exporters in several locations in Indonesia. This paper has two main objectives: a) to determine the site suitability of ornamental coral propagation locations and b) to provide a detailed description of the development and progress of ornamental coral propagation in Indonesia with first-hand information from 14 companies. The present study showed that the highest growth rate was found on branched specimens of E. glabrescens (2.50 cm) after 5 months, and the lowest growth rate was found on branched specimens of E. paraancora (0.42 cm). Corals with larger branches or with two or three branches of E. glabrescens and E. paraancora have a low mortality and increased the number of branches to three to four branches after 5 months. Small colonies also survive with a mortality of 20%. The cultured corals can grow optimally and have exotic colors when placed at different depths. Best coral growth was obtained from fast-growing coral species at a shallow depth (<10 m). While medium depth (10–15 m) was suitable for corals with moderate growth rates, the deeper depths (> 15 m) were characterized by bright-colored corals with slow-growing rates. Color quality and growth of corals are closely related to some supporting factors such as the suitability of locations that have different physical, biological, and chemical factors in different depths and thus follow different requirements among coral species. Location choices determine the success of coral cultivation both for ornamental and restoration purposes. These results are valuable background information for traded ornamental corals that can be utilized by propagators.
Cement–ash concrete with the addition of lime kiln dust
Authors: Dvorkin Leonid , Zhitkovsky Vadim
Published: June 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the effect of lime kiln dust (LKD) on the properties of concrete mixtures and concrete using Portland cement and fly ash. A possible mechanism for the formation of the structure of cement–ash paste with the addition of LKD is analyzed in detail. The positive effect of LKD on hydration (an increase in the content of hydration water by 40.50%) and structure formation due to an increase in the alkalinity of the cement–ash paste is shown. Using the method of the experiment mathematical planning, experimental–statistical polynomial models of the concrete component (Portland cement, fly ash, dust, superplasticizer, and aggregates) content influence on the workability of the concrete mixture and the strength of concrete at different ages were obtained. The introduction of lime–carbonate components into concrete mixtures increases the strength of concrete by 27%–54%. At the same time, with the consumption of cement up to 200 kg/m3, ash 100.150 kg/m3, and LKD 50.100 kg/m3, it seems possible to obtain concrete with a compressive strength of 20.30 MPa. The obtained models were analyzed, which made it possible to establish the positive effect of LKD additive on the compressive strength of concrete at the age of 7–180 days.
Recommendations on the structure, personal, and organization of intensive care units
Authors: Waydhas Christian , Riessen Reimer , Markewitz Andreas , Hoffmann Florian , Frey Lorenz , Böttiger Bernd W. , Brenner Sebastian , Brenner Thorsten , Deffner Teresa , Deininger Matthias M. , Janssens Uwe , Kluge Stefan , Marx Gernot , Schwab Stefan , Unterberg Andreas W. , Walcher Felix , van den Hooven Thomas
Published: June 2023

Background

Intensive care units (ICU) are central facilities of medical care in hospitals world-wide and pose a significant financial burden on the health care system.

Objectives

To provide guidance and recommendations for the requirements of (infra)structure, personal, and organization of intensive care units.

Design and setting

Development of recommendations based on a systematic literature search and a formal consensus process from a group of multidisciplinary and multiprofessional specialists from the German Interdisciplinary Association of Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine (DIVI). The grading of the recommendation follows the report from an American College of Chest Physicians Task Force.

Results

The recommendations cover the fields of a 3-staged level of intensive care units, a 3-staged level of care with respect to severity of illness, qualitative and quantitative requirements of physicians and nurses as well as staffing with physiotherapists, pharmacists, psychologists, palliative medicine and other specialists, all adapted to the 3 levels of ICUs. Furthermore, proposals concerning the equipment and the construction of ICUs are supplied.

Conclusion

This document provides a detailed framework for organizing and planning the operation and construction/renovation of ICUs.
Development of virus-like particles with inbuilt immunostimulatory properties as vaccine candidates
Authors: Collett Simon , Earnest Linda , Carrera Montoya Julio , Edeling Melissa A. , Yap Ashley , Wong Chinn Yi , Christiansen Dale , Roberts Jason , Mumford Jamie , Lecouturier Valerie , Pavot Vincent , Marco Sergio , Loi Joon Keit , Simmons Cameron , Gulab Shivali A. , Mackenzie Jason M. , Elbourne Aaron , Ramsland Paul A. , Cameron Garth , Hans Dhiraj , Godfrey Dale I. , Torresi Joseph
Published: June 2023

The development of virus-like particle (VLP) based vaccines for human papillomavirus, hepatitis B and hepatitis E viruses represented a breakthrough in vaccine development. However, for dengue and COVID-19, technical complications, such as an incomplete understanding of the requirements for protective immunity, but also limitations in processes to manufacture VLP vaccines for enveloped viruses to large scale, have hampered VLP vaccine development. Selecting the right adjuvant is also an important consideration to ensure that a VLP vaccine induces protective antibody and T cell responses. For diseases like COVID-19 and dengue fever caused by RNA viruses that exist as families of viral variants with the potential to escape vaccine-induced immunity, the development of more efficacious vaccines is also necessary. Here, we describe the development and characterisation of novel VLP vaccine candidates using SARS-CoV-2 and dengue virus (DENV), containing the major viral structural proteins, as protypes for a novel approach to produce VLP vaccines. The VLPs were characterised by Western immunoblot, enzyme immunoassay, electron and atomic force microscopy, and in vitro and in vivo immunogenicity studies. Microscopy techniques showed proteins self-assemble to form VLPs authentic to native viruses. The inclusion of the glycolipid adjuvant, α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) in the vaccine formulation led to high levels of natural killer T (NKT) cell stimulation in vitro, and strong antibody and memory CD8+ T cell responses in vivo, demonstrated with SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and DEN VLPs. This study shows our unique vaccine formulation presents a promising, and much needed, new vaccine platform in the fight against infections caused by enveloped RNA viruses.
Case Report: Cavernous hemangioma of rib: an extremely rare venous malformation but easily misdiagnosed as aggressive tumors
Authors: Liu Shan , Xiang Luan , Ding Fan , Yuan Ling , Wang Xiu-Mei
Published: June 2023

Hemangioma is a congenital vascular malformation that occurs commonly in the skin and soft tissues of younger individuals but rarely in the bone. The term hemangioma occurring in bone has been referred to as venous bony malformation also. In these rare cases, vertebral bodies occur more often, followed by the craniofacial skeleton and long bones. Most rib tumors are malignant, and hemangiomas of the rib tend to grow expansively and disrupt the cortex. Venous malformations in ribs are not tumors but can be misdiagnosed as aggressive tumors or infectious processes. In fact, hemangioma of bone is a locally aggressive benign vascular malformation associated with a good prognosis. To date, no more than 50 cases of rib hemangiomas have been described in the English literature. This report presents a case of an asymptomatic 27-year-old female patient who found a quail egg-sized lump on the right side of her chest that was the size of a cocoon 2 months prior. Then, the lump grew rapidly to the size of an egg when she presented to the hospital. Because of its worrisome histomorphologic features and aggressive clinical radiologic findings, it was once misdiagnosed as a malignant tumor by most doctors. However, the pathological results after the operation confirmed rib hemangioma. Therefore, this case report aims to share this particular case so that more doctors can better understand the particularity of this disease’s progression.
Paralog-based synthetic lethality: rationales and applications
Authors: Xin Yucui , Zhang Yingsheng
Published: June 2023

Tumor cells can result from gene mutations and over-expression. Synthetic lethality (SL) offers a desirable setting where cancer cells bearing one mutated gene of an SL gene pair can be specifically targeted by disrupting the function of the other genes, while leaving wide-type normal cells unharmed. Paralogs, a set of homologous genes that have diverged from each other as a consequence of gene duplication, make the concept of SL feasible as the loss of one gene does not affect the cell’s survival. Furthermore, homozygous loss of paralogs in tumor cells is more frequent than singletons, making them ideal SL targets. Although high-throughput CRISPR-Cas9 screenings have uncovered numerous paralog-based SL pairs, the unclear mechanisms of targeting these gene pairs and the difficulty in finding specific inhibitors that exclusively target a single but not both paralogs hinder further clinical development. Here, we review the potential mechanisms of paralog-based SL given their function and genetic combination, and discuss the challenge and application prospects of paralog-based SL in cancer therapeutic discovery.
The association between adverse pregnancy outcomes and non-viral genital pathogens among women living in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Gamberini Carlotta , Juliana Naomi C. A. , de Brouwer Lenya , Vogelsang Dorothea , Al-Nasiry Salwan , Morré Servaas A. , Ambrosino Elena
Published: June 2023

Adverse pregnancy outcomes are the main causes of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, including long-term physical and psychological sequelae. These events are common in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Sub Saharan Africa, despite national efforts. Maternal infections can cause complications at any stage of pregnancy and contribute to adverse outcomes. Among infections, those of the genital tract are a major public health concern worldwide, due to limited availability of prevention, diagnosis and treatment approaches. This applies even to treatable infections and holds true especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. As late as 2017, the region accounted for 40% of all reported treatable non-viral genital pathogens worldwide, many of which have been independently associated with various adverse pregnancy outcomes, and that include Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, Treponema pallidum. Two databases (PubMed and Embase) were examined to identify eligible studies published up to October 2022. This study reviewed findings on the association between infections by treatable non-viral genital pathogens during pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes among women living in Sub-Saharan Africa. Articles' title and abstract were screened at first using keywords as “sexually transmitted infections”, “non-viral”, “adverse pregnancy outcome”, “Africa”, “sub-Saharan Africa”, “pregnant women”, “pregnancy”, and “pregnancy outcome”. Subsequently, according to the eligibility criteria, potential articles were read in full. Results showed that higher risk of preterm birth is associated with Treponema pallidum, Chlamydia trachomatis and Candida albicans infections. Additionally, rates of stillbirth, neonatal death, low birth weight and intrauterine growth restriction are also associated with Treponema pallidum infection. A better insight on the burden of non-viral genital pathogens and their effect on pregnancy is needed to inform antenatal care guidelines and screening programs, to guide the development of innovative diagnostic tools and other strategies to minimize transmission, and to prevent short- and long-term complications for mothers and children.
The Role of Releasing Incisions in Emergency Inguinal Hernia Repair
Authors: Weitzner Zachary N. , Chen David C.
Published: June 2023

The majority of inguinal hernia repairs worldwide are performed on an outpatient basis. However, incarceration and concern for strangulation of abdominal contents necessitates emergent repair in order to address visceral ischemia. In the setting of salvageable ischemia, this necessitates release of strangulation of blood supply by the hernia defect and reduction of visceral contents into the abdominal cavity. In certain cases, this cannot be achieved with simple manual reduction, and requires enlargement of the aperture of the hernia defect with releasing incisions in order to allow reduction. We aim to describe strategies for releasing incisions via open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches in emergency inguinal hernia repair.
Comparing Prognostic Factors of Cancers Identified by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Human Readers in Breast Cancer Screening
Authors: Oberije Cary J. G. , Sharma Nisha , James Jonathan J. , Ng Annie Y. , Nash Jonathan , Kecskemethy Peter D.
Published: June 2023

Invasiveness status, histological grade, lymph node stage, and tumour size are important prognostic factors for breast cancer survival. This evaluation aims to compare these features for cancers detected by AI and human readers using digital mammography. Women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2009 and 2019 from three UK double-reading sites were included in this retrospective cohort evaluation. Differences in prognostic features of cancers detected by AI and the first human reader (R1) were assessed using chi-square tests, with significance at p < 0.05. From 1718 screen-detected cancers (SDCs) and 293 interval cancers (ICs), AI flagged 85.9% and 31.7%, respectively. R1 detected 90.8% of SDCs and 7.2% of ICs. Of the screen-detected cancers detected by the AI, 82.5% had an invasive component, compared to 81.1% for R1 (p-0.374). For the ICs, this was 91.5% and 93.8% for AI and R1, respectively (p = 0.829). For the invasive tumours, no differences were found for histological grade, tumour size, or lymph node stage. The AI detected more ICs. In summary, no differences in prognostic factors were found comparing SDC and ICs identified by AI or human readers. These findings support a potential role for AI in the double-reading workflow.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia Expresses a Specific Group of Olfactory Receptors
Authors: Guardia Gabriela D. A. , Naressi Rafaella G. , Buzzato Vanessa C. , da Costa Juliana B. , Zalcberg Ilana , Ramires Jordana , Malnic Bettina , Gutiyama Luciana M. , Galante Pedro A. F.
Published: June 2023

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common form of acute leukemia in adults, with a 5-year overall survival rate of approximately 30%. Despite recent advances in therapeutic options, relapse remains the leading cause of death and poor survival outcomes. New drugs benefit specific small subgroups of patients with actionable therapeutic targets. Thus, finding new targets with greater applicability should be pursued. Olfactory receptors (ORs) are seven transmembrane G-protein coupled receptors preferentially expressed in sensory neurons with a critical role in recognizing odorant molecules. Recent studies have revealed ectopic expression and putative function of ORs in nonolfactory tissues and pathologies, including AML. Here, we investigated OR expression in 151 AML samples, 6400 samples of 15 other cancer types, and 11,200 samples of 51 types of healthy tissues. First, we identified 19 ORs with a distinct and major expression pattern in AML, which were experimentally validated by RT-PCR in an independent set of 13 AML samples, 13 healthy donors, and 8 leukemia cell lines. We also identified an OR signature with prognostic potential for AML patients. Finally, we found cancer-related genes coexpressed with the ORs in the AML samples. In summary, we conducted an extensive study to identify ORs that can be used as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of AML and as potential drug targets.
Is Systemic Immunosuppression a Risk Factor for Oral Cancer? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Patini Romeo , Cordaro Massimo , Marchesini Denise , Scilla Francesco , Gioco Gioele , Rupe Cosimo , D’Agostino Maria Antonietta , Lajolo Carlo
Published: June 2023

Even if the relationship between immunosuppression and increased incidence of systemic cancers is well known, there is less awareness about the risk of developing oral cancer in immunosuppressed patients. The aim of this review was to evaluate the association between immunosuppression and the development of oral cancer. Two authors independently and, in duplicate, conducted a systematic literature review of international journals and electronic databases (MEDLINE via OVID, Scopus, and Web of Science) from their inception to 28 April 2023. The assessment of risk of bias and overall quality of evidence was performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and GRADE system. A total of 2843 articles was identified, of which 44 met the inclusion criteria and were included in either the qualitative or quantitative analysis. The methodological quality of the included studies was generally high or moderate. The quantitative analysis of the studies revealed that immunosuppression should be considered a risk factor for the development of oral cancer, with a percentage of increased risk ranging from 0.2% to 1% (95% CI: 0.2% to 1.4%). In conclusion, the results suggest that a constant and accurate follow-up should be reserved for all immunosuppressed patients as a crucial strategy to intercept lesions that have an increased potential to evolve into oral cancer.