bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Resonance-High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MR-HIFU) in uterine fibroids management: An updated meta-analysis.
Authors: Zheng Shilin , Rong Yu , Zhu Haiyun , Zhang Xiaoyu , Liu Xuan , Wu Yun , Zhao Meng
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Magnetic Resonance-High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MR-HIFU)
has revolutionized the treatment of Uterine fibroids. Usually, they are
associated with prolonged heavy bleeding during the menstrual period,
sacral pain, and increased frequency of UTIs, secondary dysmenorrhea,
constipation, and pregnancy-associated problems. It also impacts usual
activities, which lead to diminished quality of life and rising
healthcare costs. Generally, surgery is the only choice for uterine
fibroids; however, MR-HIFU is an entirely non-invasive novel therapy,
preferred in pregnancy desiring females. Excluding trials with stringent
treatment protocols that are no longer used, the efficacy of Magnetic
Resonance-High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (MRHIFU) therapy for uterine
fibroids is being re-evaluated. Methods: RCTs, Prospective or
Retrospective non-randomized, and cross-over studies that considered
clinically symptomatic uterine fibroid treatment were included. The
author has searched the data in Cochrane Library, PubMed/MEDLINE,
SCOPUS, EMBASE databases. Meta-Analysis was performed using NCSS
software, and data were analyzed at a 95% confidence level with a level
of precision at 0.05. The NPV%, tSSS change%, and QoL were computed.
Meta-Regression was done to evaluate the association between the
different parameters. Results: The overall effect of NPV% was 70.24,
where the 95% confidence interval ranged from 61.9% to 78.16%. The
overall impact of tSSS% change is near 50% after the follow-up of 3
months, 6 months, and 12 months in the included studies. There was a
significant improvement in the health-related quality of life (Hr-QoL).
Conclusion: The efficacy of MR-HIFU therapy was improved as treatment
protocols aimed for total ablation. On the other hand, regulated studies
are required to determine the function of MR-HIFU in the treatment of
uterine fibroids.
The anti-fibrotic effects of RLN3 aggravated the pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis-a preliminary study
Authors: Zhang Hao , Luo Bei'er , Sun Fengyuan , Xu Bing , Li Ming , Wang Guokun , Yang Zongde
Published: January 2024

Previous research proposed that ligament laxity is a clinical feature
that can be easily overlooked in patients with adolescent idiopathic
scoliosis (AIS). Relaxin and relaxin-related peptides, which have
anti-fibrosis roles in the vascular and kidney system and relax the
pubic symphysis during pregnancy, may contribute to ligament laxity. The
goal of this research was to evaluate the role of in AIS. We found
significantly increased relaxin-3 plasma in patients with AIS, as well
as a significant correlation between joint hypermobility and relaxin 3
plasma levels. In a classic mouse model (C57BL/6J) of scoliosis, which
was established according to the literature, showed significantly higher
relaxin-3 plasma levels compared to normal group. In the relaxin-3
knockout C57BL/6J mice model the prevalence of scoliosis was
significantly decreased. An in vitro experiment showed that relaxin 3
has anti-fibrotic effects on spinal ligament fibroblasts in both humans
and mice by inhibiting TGF-β via relaxin family peptide receptor 3
(RXFP3) and increasing expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and
matrix metalloproteinase 9 via the TGF-β/Smad2 and MAPK-ERK1/2 pathway.
Blocking RXFP3 function with R3(B1-22)R significantly decreased the
prevalence of scoliosis in C57BL/6J mice. In summary, the anti-fibrotic
effects of relaxin-3 and RXFP3 activation may aggravate the pathogenesis
of AIS.
Dose-response relationship between maternal blood pressure in pregnancy and preterm birth: based on the monitoring data of 212,941 pregnant women in China
Authors: Zhao Wei , Di Jiangli , Gong Xiao , Huang Aiqin , Yang Qi , Hu Huanqing , Chen Sidi
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To analyze the dose-response relationship between maternal
Blood pressure (BP) in different trimesters and preterm birth(PTB).
Design: A monitoring data (cohort) study. Setting and population: All
single-fetus pregnant women who delivered during 2014-2018 in 13
counties of 6 provinces in China. Methods: Through the Maternal and
Newborn Health Monitoring System in China, the monitoring data were
obtained, including essential maternal information, all previous
antenatal examination and pregnancy outcomes of all pregnant women lived
in the monitoring area. Main outcome measures: PTB(delivered between 28
and 37 weeks); Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy(HDP)(SBP ≥140mmHg
and/or DBP ≥90mmHg once); Hypotension (SBP<90mmHg and/or
DBP<60mmHg once). Results: A total of 212,941 single-fetus
pregnant women were included. The overall incidences of HDP and PTB were
7.07% and 4.04% respectively. Taking the group of normal BP as
reference, the odds ratios(OR) of PTB for the groups of HDP in 1st, 2nd
and 3rd trimesters was 3.23, 2.70 and 2.05
respectively(P<0.001). Hypotension in 3rd trimester was
associated with a 1.5-fold higher risk of PTB(P<0.001). ORs of
PTB had a nonlinearly U-shaped association with SBP and DBP in 1st, 2nd
and 3rd trimesters. Conclusions: The risks of PTB varied among pregnant
women with the same BP in different trimesters. An increase of BP within
the normal range during pregnancy could prevent PTB. Hypotension in 3rd
trimester was associated with a high risk of PTB. Funding: Funded by the
government of China (No.1311300011301). Key words: Maternal blood
pressure, preterm birth, dose-response relationship, restricted cubic
spline, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, hypotension
Everything in one place: Covid-19 associated myocarditis in a patient with coronary artery disease and end stage renal failure
Authors: Simsek Mustafa , Cabbar Ayca Turer
Published: January 2024

Myocarditis is associated with increased morbidity and mortaity in
patients with Covid-19 infection. Little is known about the true nature
and exact pathogenesis of myocardial involvement in these patients. 44
year old patient admitted with exertional dyspnea. He had previous
coronary artery bypass surgey and received hemodialysis for lupus
nephritis. He was diagnosed with Covid-19 infection 1 month ago.
Echocardiography revealed decreased left ventricular ejection fraction
and left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS). Coronary
computerized tomographic angiography revealed patent bypass grafts. His
medical treatment was adjusted. Follow up echocardiography after 3
months showed markedly improved LVEF and left ventricular GLS.
High levels of circulating IL-6 and IL-8 signature predicts COVID-19 severity
Authors: OZGUR Didem , KARAMESE MURAT , ALIBEYOGLU ALPAY MEDET , ALKAN ONUR , SENKAL Naci , TUTUNCU Emin Ediz
Published: January 2024

Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-
2) infection may trigger a cytokine storm which is characterized by
uncontrolled overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines. We aimed to
determine associations of circulating levels of inflammatory cytokines
with severity of COVID-19. Materials and methods This is a
cross-sectional study including 46 severe and 32 mildly symptomatic
coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. The serum levels of
cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors were determined by using a
Bio-Plex Pro™ Human Cytokine Screening Panel (Bio-Rad, Hercules, CA,
USA). Results A total of 78 patients with confirmed COVID-19, 54 males
and 24 females were included in this study. The mean age was 43.1±13.3
and 58.2±15 in mild and severe patients, respectively. Severe patients
were characterized by significant laboratory abnormalities such as
increased WBC (p=0.002) and neutrophil counts (p=0.001), higher levels
of ALT (p=0.030), AST (p=0.002), LDH (p<0.001), ure (p=0.013),
ferritin (p<0.001), D-dimer (p=0.042), CRP (p<0.001)
and decreased lymphocyte (p<0.001) and platelet (p=0.045)
counts. The levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-13, TNF-α, IFN-γ, MIP-1β and MCP-1
were increased in the severe group compared to the mild group but only
significant differences were observed for IL-6 (p<0.001) and
IL-8 (p<0.001) levels. Conclusions Serum IL-6 and IL-8 levels
can be used as potential prognostic biomarkers of disease severity in
COVID-19 patients.
A comparison of analytical solutions of nonlinear complex generalized Zakharov dynamical system for various definitions of the differential operator
Authors: Cinar Melih , Onder Ismail , Secer Aydin , Sulaiman Tukur , Yusuf Abdullahi , BAYRAM Mustafa
Published: January 2024

In this paper, the conformable and M− truncated nonlinear complex
generalized Zakharov dynamical system are considered. The exact
solutions of the dynamical system for different two types of derivatives
are derived by using the extended rational sine−cosine and sinh−cosh
methods. We make a comparison between the solutions of the Zakharov
system with the conformable derivative and the system with M− truncated
derivative. The results are depicted in the 2D and 3D graphics. All
computations and graphics are fulfilled with the help of Wolfram
Mathematica 12. The methods can be successfully applied to get soliton
solutions of PDEs (or PDE systems) with the different types of
derivatives.
Observation of notable therapeutic response in a patient with systemic juvenile xanthogranuloma with KIF5B-ALK fusion
Authors: Sugiyama Minako , Hirabayashi Shinsuke , Ishi Yukitomo , Kikuchi Junko , Ishikura Ayako , Motegi Hiroaki , Ueda Yuki , Sawai Saori , Hara Kazuya , Terashita Yukayo , Cho Yuko , Takakuwa Emi , Honda Shohei , Yamaguchi Shigeru , Kinoshita Ichiro , Manabe Atsushi
Published: January 2024

We report the case of a 1-year-old male patient with systemic juvenile
xanthogranuloma in whom central nervous system lesions caused
developmental retardation, spasticity and clonus of the lower
extremities. He needed tube feeding and experienced severe bronchitis
and generalised convulsive seizure. KIF5B-ALK fusion was identified in
the cutaneous lesion, and he was administered alectinib, an ALK
inhibitor. Two months after the initiation of alectinib administration,
the central nervous system lesions achieved partial regression. The
spasticity and clonus were also relieved. A high index of cognition is
needed for ALK fusion in infants with histiocytosis.
Hypoventilation in a case of congenital Rett syndrome
Authors: Ghirardo Sergio , Sabatini Letizia , Onofri Alessandro , Testa Beatrice Chiarini , Paglietti Maria Giovanna , Diodato Daria , Atti Marta Ciofi degli , Cherchi Claudio , Cutrera Renato
Published: January 2024

Breathing disturbances are often a major clinical concern during
wakefulness of classic form of Rett syndrome, but data for atypical
forms are lacking. We report the case of a 20-month-old female affected
by the congenital variant of Rett syndrome, that is characterized by
severe hypotonia and neurodevelopment impairment. She presented
hypoventilation, persistent periodic breathing and sustained
desaturation during sleep time, without obstructive nor central events;
pulse oximetry and capnography during wakefulness were strictly normal.
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of Rett syndrome
presenting hypoventilation. Hypotonia may play a major role in the
genesis of hypoventilation and hypoxemia in our patient. Non-invasive
ventilation led to quality-of-life improvements. Thus, we suggest
screening patients with congenital Rett variant through transcutaneous
bedtime carbon dioxide and oxygen monitoring. Moreover, in our case,
assisted control mode was a breakthrough to achieve adequate
ventilation.
How to: Statistics decrypted – a comprehensive review and smartphone-assisted five-step approach for good statistical practice
Authors: Guglielmetti Laura , Faber-Castell Fabio , Fink Lukas , Vuille-dit-Bille Raphael
Published: January 2024

Background Statistic scripts are often made by mathematicians and
cryptic for clinicians or non-mathematician scientists. Nevertheless,
almost all research projects necessitate the application of some
statistical tests or at least an understanding thereof. The present
review aims on giving an overview of the most common statistical terms
and concepts. It further ensures good statistical practice by providing
a five-step approach guiding the reader to the correct statistical test.
Methods and Results First, different types of variables and measurements
to describe a data set with means of descriptive statistics are
introduced. The basic thoughts and tools of interferential statistics
are presented, and different types of bias are discussed. Then in the
final paragraph, the most commonly used statistical tests are described.
A smartphone app accessable via QR code finally guides the reader in
five steps to the correct statistical test, depending on the data used
in order to avoid commonly performed mistakes. Conclusions. The
five-step approach sets a new minimal standard for good statistical
practice.
Unraveling the population structure of Diatraea saccharalis (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in Argentina
Authors: FOGLIATA SOFIA , PERERA MARIA , Alves-Pereira Alessandro , Zucchi Maria , MURUA MARIA
Published: January 2024

Diatraea saccharalis (Fabricius) is one of the major Lepidopteran pests
throughout the Western Hemisphere. In Argentina, it causes significant
losses mainly in sugarcane and corn. Previous studies determined the
existence of reproductive incompatibilities between populations from
Buenos Aires and Tucumán from different host plants; however, the
genetic base of this incompatibility is still unknown. The aim of this
study was to determine the existence of genetic structure of D.
saccharalis populations collected from different hosts and regions in
Argentina, comparing with those from Brazil, through COI and NGS. The
COI analyzes showed a haplotypic diversity of 0.8 and a Nucleotide
diversity of 0.0058. AMOVA revealed a greater variation within
populations than among them. The 17 haplotypes detected were linked in a
single parsimony network that did not reveal clusters clearly influenced
by geographic locations or the host plants from which populations were
collected. A total of 4.549 SNPs were obtained through NGS. Out of the
2,349 outlier loci, 84 showed similarities with known proteins
previously characterized. The coefficient of inbreeding showed that the
mating among the populations, although it is being random, presents the
same degree of selection. The FST values showed a high variation among
Argentina and Brazil populations; however, did not show a clearly
defined trend of the influence of the host and/or the distance. In the
DAPC, three different groups were formed, a group that includes the
samplings from Brazil and two groups from Argentina. Results indicated
the existence of genetic divergence in D. saccharalis populations.
Phytotoxic effects of treated wastewater used for agricultural irrigation on root hydraulic conductivity and plant growth
Authors: Asli Sare , Rayan Anwar , Hugerat Muhamad
Published: January 2024

Laboratory experiments on hydroponic growth conditions of maize
seedlings (Zea mays L) were conducted to determine the effects of
treated wastewater (TWW) on the water transport characteristics.
Pressurized water flow through the excised primary roots was reduced by
25%-52%, within 90 min of exposure to TWW. Similar results were
received after fractionation of TWW through dialysis tube (with a
cut-off at 6000-8000 Da) i.e., dialyzed treated wastewater (DTWW), was
tested. The root flow reductions appeared simultaneously to involve
phytotoxic and physical clogging impacts. First, the inhibition in
hydraulic conductivity through live roots (phytotoxic and physical
effects) after exposure to secondary DTWW was by 22%, while through
killed roots accepted after hot alcohol disruption of cell membranes
(physical effects only); was only by 14%. Second, although DTWW
affected root elongation severely by 58%, cell-wall pore sizes of same
roots were little reduced by 6%. Additionally, the exposure to TWW or
DTWW caused inhibition of both leaf growth rate by (26%-70%) and
transpiration by (14%-64%). We conclude that large molecules, such as
polypeptides, remained after the dialysis process, may have produced
hormone-like activity that affected root water permeability. This
finding can be applied to develop guidelines for neutralizing phytotoxic
effects of TWW.
Subtle evidence of the climatic effects and strong sexual selection in the Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) population; confirms Machine Learning
Authors: Mahendiran Mylswamy , Mylswamy Parthiban
Published: January 2024

Research communities show interest in in-situ measurements using digital
photography. We measured the body parts of Painted Storks, through a
non-invasive method, with their digital images taken under field
conditions at two different biogeographic regions of India to test the
Ecogeographic rules and sexual dimorphism. Our results show a
significant difference in the morphological measurements between the
sexes. The Nested ANOVA of the principal component scores indicated an
apparent sexual dimorphism with a substantial variation in the leg
morphology of the Painted Storks. Further, we have classified and
predicted the Painted Storks’ sexes and the region from the independent
morphological variables through Machine Learning algorithms. Without the
non-invasive method, it would be almost impossible to collect
morphological measurements at a large scale from live Painted Storks
under field conditions. Besides, the non-invasive sex identification of
birds under field conditions assumes importance from animal welfare and
conservation perspective.
A PHARMACOLOGICAL REVIEW ON HEAD AND NECK CANCER
Authors: Kontheti Mahesh Pavan , Vamaraju Upajna , Burreddy Navya Deepika , Tarra Rushi Naidu
Published: January 2024

Head and neck cancer are a group of cancers of the mouth, sinuses, nose
or throat, where smoking is considered a major risk factor. Symptoms may
appear in mouth, sinuses, nose or throat and include a sore or lump that
doesn’t heal, a persistent sore throat, trouble swallowing and changes
in the voice. Prognosis in this type of cancer generally depends on the
size of tumor, primary site, causative factor, and presence of local or
distant metastases. In general, the prognosis is favourable if diagnosis
is early and treatment is timely and appropriate. Treatment includes
surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Staging of tumor can be done
using TNM classification and the can be evaluated through RECIST
guidelines. Removing risk factors is very much important in preventing
this type of cancer, and patients should stop the usage of tobacco and
limit alcohol consumption.
Combined Endocardial and Epicardial Ablation of Drug-Refractory Ventricular Tachycardia by Direct Ventricular Puncture
Authors: ASHRAF HASAN , Minaskeian Nareg , Sell-Dottin Kristen , Masry Hicham El
Published: January 2024

Mechanical valves in both aortic and mitral positions pose a challenge
for left ventricular (LV) access during ventricular tachycardia (VT)
ablation using the antegrade transseptal or the retrograde transaortic
approach. A 57 year-old male with ischemic cardiomyopathy, mechanical
aortic and mitral valves, and recurrent VT underwent a combined
endocardial and epicardial ablation via direct ventricular puncture via
mini-thoracotomy. Successful mapping with endocardial and epicardial
ablation was performed, with no recurrent VT on follow up. We showcase
the feasibility of VT ablation using an open transapical approach for
patients with mechanical aortic and mitral valves.
PULMONARY SURVEILLANCE IN PEDIATRIC HEMATOPOIETIC STEM CELL TRANSPLANT-- A MULTINATIONAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY SURVEY
Authors: Shanthikumar Shivanthan , Gower William , Abts Matthew , Liptzin Deborah , Fiorino Elizabeth , Stone Anne , Srinivasan Saumini , Vece Timothy , Akil Nour , Cole Theresa , Cooke Kenneth , Goldfarb Samuel
Published: January 2024

Background Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) is an established
treatment for malignant and non-malignant conditions and pulmonary
disease is a leading cause of late term morbidity and mortality.
Accurate and early detection of pulmonary complications is a critical
step in improving long term outcomes. Existing guidelines for
surveillance of pulmonary complications post-HSCT contain conflicting
recommendations. Objective To determine the breadth of current practice
in monitoring for pulmonary complications of pediatric HSCT. Study
Design An institutional review board approved, online, anonymous
multiple-choice survey was distributed to HSCT and pulmonary physicians
from the United States of America and Australasia using the REDcap
platform. The survey was developed by members of the American Thoracic
Society Working Group on Complications of Childhood Cancer, and was
designed to assess patient management and service design. Results A
total of 40 (34.8%) responses were received. The majority (62.5%) were
pulmonologists, and 82.5% were from the United States of America. In
all, 67.5% reported having a protocol for monitoring pulmonary
complications and 50.0% reported adhering “well” or “very well” to
protocols. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) most commonly involved
spirometry and diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide. The frequency of
PFTs varied depending on time post-HSCT and presence of complications.
In all, 55.0% reported a set threshold for a clinically significant
change in PFT. Conclusions These results illustrate current variation in
surveillance for pulmonary complications of pediatric HSCT. The results
of this survey will inform development of future guidelines for
monitoring of pulmonary complications after pediatric HSCT.
FEATURES OF THE METABOLIC SYNDROME PREDICT NEW-ONSET DIABETES AND CONVERSION OF PREDIABETES TO DIABETES: EVIDENCE FROM A PROSPECTIVE, COMMUNITY-BASED COHORT FOLLOW-UP STUDY
Authors: Silva Shamila De , Ediriweera Dileepa , Niriella Madunil , Beddage Thulani , Kasturirathna Anuradhani , Pathmeswaran Arunasalam , Kato Norihiro , Wickramasinghe Rajitha , Silva Janaka de
Published: January 2024

Background There is limited data on the prevalence and outcome of
prediabetes (PDM) and the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)
in South Asia. We investigated these in a prospective, community-based
study involving a cohort of urban adults in Sri Lanka, with a seven-year
follow-up. Methods Participants were selected by age-stratified random
sampling, and were initially screened in 2007 and reevaluated in 2014.
To assess the participants, structured interviews, anthropometric
measurements, liver ultrasound, biochemical, and serological tests were
performed on both occasions. Results 2985 individuals were recruited in
2007 [54.8% women, median age (IQR) 53 (47-59)]; 737 had T2DM
[baseline prevalence 24.7% (95% CI: 23.1–26.2)] and 525 had PDM
[baseline prevalence 17.9% (95% CI: 16.2-19.6)]. 2148 (71.6%)
attended follow-up in 2014 [57.5% women; median (IQR) 60 (54–66)
years], which included 1650 who did not have T2DM in 2007. By 2014,
436/1650 (27.6%) had developed new T2DM [annual incidence 3.9% (95%
CI:3.0-4.9)]. On logistic regression, PDM, central obesity,
dyslipidemia, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) at baseline
showed significant association with new-onset T2DM. Of 525 with PDM in
2007, 365 (69.5%) presented for follow-up in 2014; 147/365 (40.3%)
remained in PDM, 201/365 (55.1%) had progressed to T2DM and 17/365
(4.6%) had reverted to normoglycemia. Annual conversion rate of PDM to
T2DM was 7.9%. Increase in waist circumference and low HDL from
baseline predicted progression to T2DM. Conclusions Presence of features
of the metabolic syndrome at baseline predicted new-onset T2DM and
conversion of PDM to T2DM. Targeted lifestyle interventions are
essential for individuals with metabolic risk to prevent future T2DM.
Clinical evaluation of patients with COVID-19 within the framework of comorbidities
Authors: Okuyucu Muhammed , Öztürk Onur , Atay Memiş Hilmi , GULLU Yusuf Taha , Temoçin Fatih , Terzi Özlem
Published: January 2024

Background: Chronic systemic diseases (CSD) and cancer are closely
related to the clinical course, severity and mortality of COVID-19 due
to the immunosuppressive conditions caused by these diseases. The
purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between the
effects of cancer and CSD on the clinical and laboratory parameters of
patients with COVID-19. Methods: The study included patients who
received inpatient treatment with the diagnosis of COVID-19 at Ondokuz
Mayıs University between 16 March, 2020, and 1 December, 2020. The
participants were divided into four groups as follows: those without
comorbidities (Group 1), those with only CSD (Group 2), those with only
cancer (Group 3), and those with both CSD and cancer (Group 4).
Comparative statistical evaluation was performed in terms of clinical
symptoms, biochemical parameters, admission to intensive care and
survival. Results: In total, 750 patients were included: 242 patients in
Group 1, 442 in Group 2, 27 in Group 3, and 39 in Group 4. The mean age
of the patients was 57.1 ± 9.4 years, and 53.7% were male. Patients of
Group 1 were significantly different from those of the other groups in
terms of age, requirement for intensive care and intubation,
complications, survival, white blood cell and lymphocyte count,
neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and levels of haemoglobin, lactic acid
dehydrogenase, ferritin, D-dimer and C-reactive protein (for each p
< 0.001). Conclusion: No difference was observed among
laboratory parameters, intensive care admission, intubation need,
complication frequency and survival rates in patients with CSD or
cancer.
A Study on Single Nucleotide Polymorphism of Leptin Receptor and Insulin Resistance in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus.
Authors: Adiga Usha , Adiga Sachidananda M , Banawalikar Nandit , Manjeera Lakshmi
Published: January 2024

Objective: To find the association of leptin-receptor gene(LEPR)
polymorphism with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and its role in
altered leptin levels, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia in GDM.
Design & Setting: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted
in Justice KS Hegde Hospital, Mangalore, India. 100 GDM patients and 100
gestational age and BMI matched normal glucose tolerant pregnant women
were recruited as cases and controls. Method: Genotyping of
leptin-receptor (LEPR)Gln223Arg was performed by PCR-RFLP. Fasting blood
sugar, leptin, insulin, C-peptide, and lipid profile were performed.
Various insulin-resistance models were constructed using suitable
formulae. Results: No significant association was found between
leptin-receptor gene polymorphism and leptin levels, insulin-resistance
in GDM. However, Odd’s ratio showed that individuals with A allele were
at 1.25 times higher risk of developing GDM. HOMA-B cells significantly
varied among Lep-R genotypes, values being double in AA genotype,
compared to AG, ten times higher in AA compared to GG. The value was
four times higher in AG compared to GG. Conclusion: It could be
concluded from the study that, there are no significant association
between leptin receptor, LEPR Gln223Arg alleles and gestational
diabetes, leptin levels, and insulin resistance. However, subjects with
the ‘G’ allele for LEPR at higher risk of hyperleptinemia. C–peptide
based insulin resistance models were elevated in GDM patients. The study
can establish a cycle of gene polymorphism altering leptin levels, which
in turn can alter insulin secretion and insulin resistance, contributing
to dyslipidemia of pregnancy and gestational diabetes.
EMDR treatment-program for women with posttraumatic stress disorder after childbirth: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kranenburg Leonieke , Bijma Hilmar , Eggink Alex , Knijff Esther , Berg Mijke Lambregtse-van den
Published: January 2024

Objective To describe the implementation and outcomes of an Eye Movement
and Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR)-treatment-program for women with
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after childbirth. Design
Prospective cohort-study with pre- and post measurements. Setting A
large university hospital in the Netherlands. Population Women who gave
birth to a living child at least 4 weeks ago, with a PTSD diagnosis, or
severe PTSD-symptoms combined with another DSM-5 diagnosis, who provided
written informed consent. Methods The intervention applied was EMDR, an
evidence-based psychotherapy for patients with PTSD. Main Outcome
Measures The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) was administered before
and after treatment. Trauma history was assessed before treatment with
the Life Events Checklist for the DSM-5 (LEC-5), the Childhood Trauma
Questionnaire (CTQ-SF) and the Childbirth Perception Scale (CPS).
Results Forty-four women were referred, 26 met the inclusion criteria.
After treatment, none of the women met the criteria for diagnosis of
PTSD anymore after on average 5 weekly sessions of EMDR-treatment. These
outcomes are extra promising, as they were achieved in quite a complex
group of women with relatively high psychiatric comorbidity (64%) and
high rates of previous mental health treatment (80%). Conclusions
Implementing an EMDR-therapy treatment program for women with after
childbirth PTSD in the context of a large academic hospital is feasible
and effective. Key factors for success include a close collaboration
between the relevant hospital departments and a thorough case
conceptualisation addressing the aetiology of the PTSD. Funding No
external funding. Keywords Posttraumatic Stress Disorder after
childbirth, EMDR-therapy, Psychiatry, Implementation.
Designing and Modelling of Trivalent Chimeric Vaccine for Capripoxvirus: Lumpy Skin Disease, Sheep Pox and Goat Pox by Immunoinformatics Approaches
Authors: M PASHUPATHI , S Anbazhagan , N Barkathullah , Priyadarsini Swagatika , Panda Snehasmita , K.C Nikhil
Published: January 2024

Capripoxvirus, a member of the poxviridae family causes three
economically important diseases in ruminants namely, lumpy skin disease
(LSD) in cattle, sheeppox in sheep, and goatpox in goats. Albeit
non-zoonotic in nature, they have the potential to cause high economic
loss among the farmers. Capripoxvirus members share common structural
proteins and can rise cross-immunity among them. The present study aimed
to design a recombinant chimeric vaccine from immunogenic proteins of
these three members to protect all the host species by using
immunoinformatics analysis and adding approved adjuvants. The
palmitoylated EEV (Extracellular Enveloped Virion) membrane glycoprotein
of LSD virus, SPPV-ORF 117 of sheeppox virus, B5R (EEV host range
protein) of goatpox virus, and a common protein to all the members, P32,
were the major immunodominant proteins used in the present chimeric
vaccine construction. Several computational programs were employed to
define the most immunogenic regions in selected proteins and different
possible adjuvants and universal T-helper agonists were linked to the
new construct. The designed vaccine construct was examined for
physicochemical properties, immunogenicity and the 3D model was designed
by using reliable software. Docking analysis and Molecular Dynamics
simulation were carried out to determine the interaction between the
designed vaccine and TLR molecules. Consequently, the lowest energy
value showed the greater ability of the designed vaccine to interact
with TLRs to induce an immune response. Besides appropriate
physicochemical properties and acceptable stability in different host
cells, the final designed vaccine is expected to have potential in
stimulating both the humoral and cellular responses.
Inconsistent species interactions across replicated systems may hinder generalisation of dynamical processes
Authors: Bonnaffé Willem , Coulson Tim
Published: January 2024

Generalisation of dynamical processes across natural systems is
difficult because of their complexity and unobserved variables. The hope
is that generalisation may be achieved if we model adequately the
complexity of systems, and observe them in sufficient detail. Yet, there
is still limited support for this claim. We investigate this by looking
at the consistency of ecological interactions across three replicates of
a three-species prey-predator system, well-observed in an artificial
environment, using neural ordinary differential equations. We find that
dominant interactions are consistent across the replicates, while weaker
interactions are not, leading to different dynamical patterns across
replicated systems. Our study hence suggests that generalisation of
dynamical processes across systems may not be possible, even in simpler
systems in ideal monitoring conditions. This is a problem because if we
are not able to make generalisations in a simple artificial system, how
can we make generalisation in the real world?
A rare epigastralgia caused by ALCAPA
Authors: Wan Yu , Xie Xiaojun , Xie Zixin , Yang Qi , Deng Mingbin
Published: January 2024

Anomalous left coronary artery originated from the pulmonary artery
(ALCAPA) is a rare cardiac abnormality (incidence: <0.5%). We
experienced an extremely rare case of ALCAPA that discovered with the
self-reported symptom of epigastralgia for two years, though the
abdominal examinations were totally normal. Various echocardiographic
and CTA methods were useful for its diagnosis.
Mathematical comparison and empirical review of the Monod and Droop forms for resource-based population dynamics
Authors: Wang Hao , Garcia Pablo Venegas , Ahmed Shohel , Heggerud Christopher
Published: January 2024

Almost all biological models use either the Droop or Monod form to
describe the resource-basedgrowth of a living organism. Empirical
evidence overwhelmingly suggests the Droop form describesdata more
accurately than the Monod form, however, the Monod form is more popular
due to itssimplicity. Focusing on phytoplankton, we illustrate the
underlying logics behind these two formsvia conceptual comparison,
experimental data validation, transient and asymptotic dynamics.
Theconceptual illustration provides the primary difference in their
mechanisms via a paradox. Datavalidation is tested via field and
laboratory experiments. The Droop and Monod forms haveconsistent
asymptotic dynamics in closed nutrient, whereas the transient dynamics
are significantlydifferent when the nutrient update rate is small. In
addition, we decipher Michael Droop’s privatelast statements on unifying
the Droop and Monod forms as well as simplifying the Droop form.This
article aims to guide future model development with any resource-based
growth.
TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE-IN-VALVE IMPLANTATION IN A PATIENT WITH PROHIBITIVE VASCULAR ACCESSES
Authors: Cerillo Alfredo , pennesi matteo , Iannone Lusia , Ciappi Francescp , Cillis Paolo De , Valenti Renato , Marchionni Niccolò , Stefano Pier Luigi
Published: January 2024

We present the case of a severely symptomatic patient with a
malfunctioning aortic bioprosthesis and severe multidistrict
atherosclerosis that was addressed to our unit for transcatheter
valve-in-valve implantation. The imaging and clinical assessment that
led to the selection of the access route is discussed.
Risk Factors Associated with Poor Prognosis in Patients with Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Lian Mengyu , Duan Yufan , Wang Jinxiang
Published: January 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the top 3 causes
of death worldwide and induces increased economic and social burden.
Acute exacerbation of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is
associated with disease progression, poor prognosis, and a decline in
health-related quality of life. With the deepening of researches,
especially large sample investigation and data analysis, more and more
factors related to the prognosis of patients with AECOPD have been
reported. We reviewed the risk factors associated with poor prognosis in
patients with AECOPD including old age, low BMI, obesity, smoking
history, severity of disease, previous frequency exacerbation,
hypoxaemia, hypercapnia, comorbidities, and microbiology
colonization/infection. In contrast, long-term inhalation therapy and
pulmonary rehabilitation can improve the patient’s prognosis. The
material upon which this review is based was obtained from various
published literature searched in PubMed.
Certain Investigations on Melanoma Detection using Non-Subsampled Bendlet Transform with Different Classifiers
Authors: S Poovizhi , T.R Ganesh Babu , R Praveena
Published: January 2024

Skin is the largest organ and outer enclosure of the integumentary
system that protects human body from pathogens. Among various cancers in
the world, skin cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancer
which can be either melanoma or non-melanoma. Melanoma cancers are very
fatal compared with non-melanoma cancers but the chances of survival
rate are high when diagnosed and treated earlier. The main aim of this
work is to analyze and investigate the performance of Non-Subsampled
Bendlet Transform (NSBT) on various classifiers for detecting melanoma
from dermoscopic images. NSBT is a multiscale and multidirectional
transform based on second order shearlet system which precisely
classifies the curvature over other directional representation systems.
Here two-phase classification is employed using k-Nearest Neighbour
(kNN), Naive Bayes (NB), Decision Trees (DT) and Support Vector Machines
(SVM). The first phase classification is used to classify the images
from PH2 database into normal and abnormal images and the second phase
classification classifies the abnormal images into benign and malignant.
Experimental result shows the improvement in classification accuracy,
sensitivity and specificity compared with the state of art methods.
Peculiar winter dormancy processes of perennial monocots represented by rhizomatous irises with distinct durations
Authors: Li Danqing , Shao Lingmei , Zhang Jiao , Wang Xiaobin , Zhang Dong , Horvath David , Zhang Liangsheng , Zhang Jiaping , Xia Yiping
Published: January 2024

Winter dormancy (WD) is the most crucial strategy for plants as they
must cope with potentially deadly environments. In recent decades, this
process in economically important perennial eudicots has been
extensively studied due to changing climates. However, in evergreen
monocots without chilling requirements, dormancy processes are so far a
mystery. We compared the WD process in closely related evergreen and
deciduous iris species across critical developmental stages. Both
species exhibit a peculiar “shallow WD” with distinct durations, and
could easily resume growth under warm conditions. Combining results from
the multipronged approach, SVP/DAM or FUL/AP1 from MADS-box was
associated with dormancy- or growth-related module, respectively, and
coexpressed with important pathways. Also, gene expression patterns and
physiological changes highlighted potential ABA and JA antagonism in
coordinating growth and stress responses, while differences in
carbohydrate metabolism and reactive oxygen species scavenging
contributed to species-specific “shallow WD” durations. Moreover, a
detailed analysis of MIKCC MADS-box in irises revealed common features
in eudicots and possible new roles for members in perennial monocots
during “shallow WD.” In essence, our results not only provide a
portrait of a peculiar WD process in perennial monocots but also offer
new insights into the regulatory mechanism underlying WD in plants.
Can mastoid process length predict the surgical outcome of tympanoplasty with or without canal wall up mastoidectomy in adults with chronic otitis media?
Authors: Alghamdi Fares , Lee Je Yeon , Ahn Joong Ho , Kang Woo Seok , Park HongJu , CHUNG JONG WOO
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To study the association between the mastoid process length
(MPL) and surgery success when treating chronic otitis media (COM).
Postoperative hearing results and the effect of eustachian tube density
and performing mastoidectomy were also explored. Settings: Tertiary
referral hospital Participants: We included 127 patients who underwent
tympanoplasty with or without intact canal wall mastoidectomy. Main
outcome measures: MPL was measured on preoperative computed tomography
(CT) scans. The primary outcome of this study is whether MPL is
correlated with the success of tympanoplasty at 1 year after surgery.
The secondary outcome is the correlation of MPL and the postoperative
hearing outcomes. Our analysis used ABG as a binary outcome with cutoff
> 10 dB and Gap cposure as a binary outcome with cutoff
>= 0 dB. Results: Longer MPL was reversly associated with
reperforation of the tympanic membrane at 1 year after surgery in
patients who received tympanoplasty without mastoidectomy (odds ratio =
0.89 with 95% confidential interval: 0.79~0.99). The
success rate of tympanoplasty with canal wall up mastoidectomy was
higher than that of tympanoplasty alone in patients with COM. There was
no significant association of MPL with postoperative ABG (odds raio =
1.0) or postoperative gap closure (odds ratio = 1.03). Conclusions: A
longer MPL was associated with a favorable surgical outcome when
performing tympanoplasty without mastoidectomy. Performing ICWM in
addition to tympanoplasty was associated with an improved success rate.
Modeling of Radiation-Induced Dysfunction of the Prefrontal Cortex Neural Networks
Authors: Popova Elena , Bugay Alexander , Dushanov Ermuhammad
Published: January 2024

In connection with the technological progress of mankind, the assessment
of the impact of radiation on the human body and in particular on the
brain and its cognitive functions is an important task. First of all,
the relevance of such a task arises from the introduction of radiation
therapy for brain tumors and radiation protection during manned flights
beyond the Earth’s magnetosphere. The crew and passengers on
high-altitude air flights are also exposed to cosmic rays to some
extent. We developed a neural network model of working memory based on
biophysical conductivity to study radiation-induced disorders and found
how known dose-dependent changes in the main parameters of neurons
affect the spatiotemporal dynamics of the network. It turned out that
radiation-induced changes in the properties of synaptic receptors lead
to a loss of stability of specific activity patterns. This instability
occurs at very low doses of heavy charged ions, but not for protons.
Human impact on Actinobacteria community revealed by hsp65 marker as a complement to 16S rRNA by metabarcoding approach in natural limestone caves and the Lascaux Cave
Authors: BURESOVA Andrea , Kopecky Jan , SAGOVA-MARECKOVA Marketa , Alonso Lise , VAUTRIN Florian , MOENNE-LOCCOZ Yvan , NAVA Veronica RODRIGUEZ
Published: January 2024

Actinobacteria are important cave inhabitants, but knowledge of
how anthropization and anthropization-related visual marks affect this
community on cave walls is missing. We compared Actinobacteria
communities among four French limestone caves (Mouflon, Reille,
Rouffignac, and Lascaux) ranging from pristine to anthropized and within
Lascaux Cave between marked (wall visual marks) and unmarked areas on
walls in different rooms (Sas-1, Passage, Apse, and Diaclase). In
addition to the 16S rRNA gene marker, 441-bp fragments of hsp65
gene were used for the identification of Actinobacteria to the
species level by Illumina-MiSeq analysis. The hsp65 marker
revealed higher resolution for species and higher richness (at 99% OTUs
cutoff) than did 16S rRNA assessment which, however, identified more
taxa at higher taxonomic ranks. Actinobacteria communities varied
between Mouflon and Reille caves (both pristine), Rouffignac and Lascaux
(both anthropized). Rouffignac displayed high diversity of
Nocardia, pointing to human inputs, and Lascaux exhibited high
Mycobacterium abundance, whereas Gaiellales were typical
in pristine caves and the Diaclase (the least affected area of Lascaux
Cave). Within Lascaux, Pseudonocardiaceae dominated on unmarked
walls and Streptomycetaceae (especially Streptomyces
mirabilis) on marked walls, raising questions on their possible role in
the formation of visual marks. Our results show how the use of the
hsp65 marker, well beyond the resolution provided by 16S rRNA
sequences, enabled for the first time to document species-level
variations of the Actinobacteria community according to the
extent of anthropogenic pressure. This approach proved effective when
comparing different limestone caves or specific conditions within one
cave.
Efficacy of treatments targeting hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal systems for major depressive disorder: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ding Yudan , Wei Zirou , Yan Haohao , Guo Wenbin
Published: January 2024

Abnormal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis has been implicated
in major depressive disorder (MDD). The aims of this meta-analysis were
to determine the effect and safety profile of HPA-targeting medications
for MDD. World of Science and PubMed databases were comprehensively
searched up to March 2021. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and
open-label trials exploring antiglucocorticoid and related medications
in patients with depression were included. In the meta-analysis, we
identified 16 RCTs and seven open-label studies that included 2972
subjects. Our study suggested that patients with MDD may benefit from
mifepristone and V1B receptor antagonist treatments that have tolerable
side effects. HPA-based medications are promising for depression
treatment. However, additional high-quality RCTs, including head-to-head
trials, are needed.
Synergistic effect of genistein and baicalein on the production of citrinin and pigment by solid state fermentation of Monascus aurantiacus Li AS3.4384
Authors: Liu Xin , Ouyang Wanbao , Gao Heng , Li Xiujiang , Huang Zhibing
Published: January 2024

In the fermentation of Monascus, in addition to the production of
various beneficial active substances, such as monacolin K and Monascus
pigments, citrinin is also produced, resulting in renal toxicity.
Therefore, its wide application is restricted. Exploring safe and
reliable methods to reduce citrinin in Monascus products is of great
significance to further expand their application range. This study
investigated the effect of genistein on the production of the fungal
toxin, citrinin, and pigments by solid fermentation of the filamentous
fungus Monascus aurantiacus Li AS3.4384, which is widely used in food
and medicine. With the addition of 2.0 g/L genistein, citrinin
production decreased by approximately 50%, while pigment production
increased by 23%. With addition of 2.0 g/L genistein dissolved in
dimethyl sulfoxide, citrinin production decreased by 96.2%, and pigment
production decreased by 26.3%. With the addition of 2.0 g/L genistein
and 0.06 g/L baicalein, citrinin production decreased by 87.9%, and
pigment production decreased by 35.5%. Therefore, the synergistic
effect of genistein and baicalein may provide a new method to reduce
Monascus citrinin production in industry.