bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of electrical discharge machining processing for ceramics using grey-taguchi system
Authors: Zeng Yue-Peng , Lin Chiang-Lung , Hung Jung-Chou , Yang Cheng-Fu
Published: September 2021

Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is one of the importantly non-traditional processing technologies employed for ceramics’ surface processing. Modeling and optimization of the EDM process are essentially applied to find and obtain the optimal values of the responses for materials having smaller surface roughness, higher removing rate of materials, lower electrode wear rate. In this study, the Grey-Taguchi system with AHP weighting was applied in order to optimize the multi-responses of the EDM processing for ceramics. When the EDM processing was used in the ZrO2 ceramics for adhesive metal foils, the multi-response gray relational grade for the optimal level of machining parameter was 0.2685, which was higher than those using the initial experimental conditions. This study has proven that using the Grey-Taguchi system method with AHP weighting to find a model with a highly efficient standard for optimizing differently advanced machining processes is profitable.
JENSEN–MERCER INEQUALITY AND RELATED RESULTS IN THE FRACTAL SENSE WITH APPLICATIONS
Authors: BUTT SAAD IHSAN , YOUSAF SABA , AHMAD HIJAZ , NOFAL TAHER A.
Published: September 2021

The most notable inequality pertaining convex functions is Jensen’s inequality which has tremendous applications in several fields. Mercer introduced an important variant of Jensen’s inequality called as Jensen–Mercer’s inequality. Fractal sets are useful tools for describing the accuracy of inequalities in convex functions. The purpose of this paper is to establish a generalized Jensen–Mercer inequality for a generalized convex function on a real linear fractal set [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]. Further, we also demonstrate some generalized Jensen–Mercer-type inequalities by employing local fractional calculus. Lastly, some applications related to Jensen–Mercer inequality and [Formula: see text]-type special means are given. The present approach is efficient, reliable, and may motivate further research in this area.
Dielectric tunable characteristics of compositional-gradient BaTi1−xSnxO3 thin films
Authors: Wu Chenjing , Yao Manwen
Published: September 2021

Compositional-gradient [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]O3 thin films on Pt(100)/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates are fabricated with sol–gel using spin coating. All of the structures of the prepared thin films are of single-phase crystalline perovskite with a dense and crack-free surface morphology. BTS10/15/20 thin film exhibits enhanced temperature stability in its dielectric behavior. The temperature coefficient of capacitance [Formula: see text] in the temperature range from [Formula: see text]C to [Formula: see text]C is [Formula: see text]C and that of [Formula: see text] in the temperature range from [Formula: see text]C to [Formula: see text]C is [Formula: see text]C. Furthermore, the thin films show low leakage current density and dielectric loss. High and stable dielectric tunable performances are found in BTS10/15/20 thin films: the dielectric tunability of the thin films is around 20.1% under a bias voltage of 8 V at 1 MHz and the corresponding dielectric constant is in the range between 89 and 111, which is beneficial for impedance matching in circuits. Dielectric tunability can be obtained under a low tuning voltage, which helps ensure safety. The simulated resonant frequency of the compositional-gradient BTS thin films depends on the bias electric field, showing compositional-gradient BTS thin films could be used in electrically tunable components and devices. These properties make compositional-gradient BTS thin films a promising candidate for dielectric tuning.
Assessment of dielectric strength and partial discharges patterns in nanocomposites insulation of single-core power cables
Authors: Thabet Ahmed , Fouad M.
Published: September 2021

Nanoparticles succeeded to enhance the dielectric properties of industrial insulation but the presence of voids inside the power cable insulation still leads to formation high electrical stress inside power cable insulation material and collapse. In this paper, the dielectric strength of new design nanocomposites has been deduced as experimental work done to clarify the benefit of filling nanoparticles with different patterns inside dielectrics. Also, it has been studied the effect of electrical stress distribution in presence of air, water and copper impurities with different shapes (cylinder, sphere and ellipse) inside insulation of single core. In simulation model, it has been used finite element method (FEM) for estimating the electrostatic field distribution in power cable insulation. It has been applied new strategies of nanotechnology techniques for designing innovative polyvinyl chloride insulation materials by using nanocomposites and multi-nanocomposites. Finally, this research succeeded to remedy different partial discharges (PD) patterns according to using certain types and concentrations of nanoparticles.
What Have We Learned from the First 500 Avian Genomes?
Authors: Bravo Gustavo A. , Schmitt C. Jonathan , Edwards Scott V.
Published: September 2021

The increased capacity of DNA sequencing has significantly advanced our understanding of the phylogeny of birds and the proximate and ultimate mechanisms molding their genomic diversity. In less than a decade, the number of available avian reference genomes has increased to over 500—approximately 5% of bird diversity—placing birds in a privileged position to advance the fields of phylogenomics and comparative, functional, and population genomics. Whole-genome sequence data, as well as indels and rare genomic changes, are further resolving the avian tree of life. The accumulation of bird genomes, increasingly with long-read sequence data, greatly improves the resolution of genomic features such as germline-restricted chromosomes and the W chromosome, and is facilitating the comparative integration of genotypes and phenotypes. Community-based initiatives such as the Bird 10,000 Genomes Project and Vertebrate Genome Project are playing a fundamental role in amplifying and coalescing a vibrant international program in avian comparative genomics.
Drug Target Identification in Tissues by Thermal Proteome Profiling
Authors: Mateus André , Kurzawa Nils , Perrin Jessica , Bergamini Giovanna , Savitski Mikhail M.
Published: September 2021

Drug target deconvolution can accelerate the drug discovery process by identifying a drug's targets (facilitating medicinal chemistry efforts) and off-targets (anticipating toxicity effects or adverse drug reactions). Multiple mass spectrometry–based approaches have been developed for this purpose, but thermal proteome profiling (TPP) remains to date the only one that does not require compound modification and can be used to identify intracellular targets in living cells. TPP is based on the principle that the thermal stability of a protein can be affected by its interactions. Recent developments of this approach have expanded its applications beyond drugs and cell cultures to studying protein-drug interactions and biological phenomena in tissues. These developments open up the possibility of studying drug treatment or mechanisms of disease in a holistic fashion, which can result in the design of better drugs and lead to a better understanding of fundamental biology.
Fragile X Syndrome: Lessons Learned and What New Treatment Avenues Are on the Horizon
Authors: Hagerman Randi J. , Hagerman Paul J.
Published: September 2021

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability and the leading single-gene form of autism spectrum disorder, encompassing cognitive, behavioral, and physical forms of clinical involvement. FXS is caused by large expansions of a noncoding CGG repeat (>200 repeats) in the FMR1 gene, at which point the gene is generally silenced. Absence of FMR1 protein (FMRP), important for synaptic development and maintenance, gives rise to the neurodevelopmental disorder. There is, at present, no therapeutic approach that directly reverses the loss of FMRP; however, there is an increasing number of potential treatments that target the pathways dysregulated in FXS, including those that address the enhanced activity of the mGluR5 pathway and deficits in GABA pathways. Based on studies of targeted therapeutics to date, the prospects are good for one or more effective therapies for FXS in the near future.
Targeting NRF2 and Its Downstream Processes: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Torrente Laura , DeNicola Gina M.
Published: September 2021

The transcription factor NRF2 coordinates the expression of a vast array of cytoprotective and metabolic genes in response to various stress inputs to restore cellular homeostasis. Transient activation of NRF2 in healthy tissues has been long recognized as a cellular defense mechanism and is critical to prevent cancer initiation by carcinogens. However, cancer cells frequently hijack the protective capability of NRF2 to sustain the redox balance and meet their metabolic requirements for proliferation. Further, aberrant activation of NRF2 in cancer cells confers resistance to commonly used chemotherapeutic agents and radiotherapy. During the last decade, many research groups have attempted to block NRF2 activity in tumors to counteract the survival and proliferative advantage of cancer cells and reverse resistance to treatment. In this review, we highlight the role of NRF2 in cancer progression and discuss the past and current approaches to disable NRF2 signaling in tumors.
Photoluminescence Properties and Lasing Performance of Dy3+/Tb3+ Co-Doped Antimony Phosphate Glasses
Authors: Sun Yingxin , Zhao Zigang , Ren Yifan , Wang Yong , Chen Yuee , Zhang Bingtao
Published: September 2021

Dy3+/Tb3+ co-doped antimony phosphate glasses (PDTs) were prepared by a common melt-quenching method. The spectra properties of PDTs were analyzed in the range of 300 to 850 nm. The sensitization mechanism of Dy3+ in enhancing the visible fluorescence of Tb3+ ions was explored. Since the energy of Dy3+ ions are effectively transferred to Tb3+ ions, an enhancement of Tb3+ emission at 545 nm and a reduction of Dy3+ emission at 575 nm were observed. The energy transfer (ET) between Dy3+ and Tb3+ ions result from the electric dipole interaction. In the PD1T4 sample pumped at 450 nm, a maximum ET efficiency of 63.1% was obtained. The larger values of laser characteristic parameters of Tb3+: 5D4 → 7F5 transition indicate that these antimony phosphate glasses have great potential for green lasing operation.
Blood fibrocytes are associated with severity and prognosis in COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Ghanem Mada , Homps-Legrand Méline , Garnier Marc , Morer Lise , Goletto Tiphaine , Frija-Masson Justine , Wicky Paul-Henri , Jaquet Pierre , Bancal Catherine , Hurtado-Nedelec Margarita , de Chaisemartin Luc , Jaillet Madeleine , Mailleux Arnaud , Quesnel Christophe , Poté Nicolas , Debray Marie-Pierre , de Montmollin Etienne , Neukirch Catherine , Borie Raphael , Taillé Camille , Crestani Bruno ,   the French COVID Cohort Study Group
Published: September 2021

Increased blood fibrocytes are associated with a poor prognosis in fibrotic lung diseases. We aimed to determine whether the percentage of circulating fibrocytes could be predictive of severity and prognosis during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. Blood fibrocytes were quantified by flow cytometry as CD45+/CD15−/CD34+/collagen-1+ cells in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 pneumonia. In a subgroup of patients admitted in an intensive care unit (ICU), fibrocytes were quantified in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Serum amyloid P (SAP), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), CXCL12, CCL2, and FGF2 concentrations were measured. We included 57 patients in the hospitalized group (median age = 59 yr [23–87]) and 16 individuals as healthy controls. The median percentage of circulating fibrocytes was higher in the patients compared with the controls (3.6% [0.2–9.2] vs. 2.1% [0.9–5.1], P = 0.04). Blood fibrocyte count was lower in the six patients who died compared with the survivors (1.6% [0.2–4.4] vs. 3.7% [0.6–9.2], P = 0.02). Initial fibrocyte count was higher in patients showing a complete lung computed tomography (CT) resolution at 3 mo. Circulating fibrocyte count was decreased in the ICU group (0.8% [0.1–2.0]), whereas BAL fibrocyte count was 6.7% (2.2–15.4). Serum SAP and TGF-β1 concentrations were increased in hospitalized patients. SAP was also increased in ICU patients. CXCL12 and CCL2 were increased in ICU patients and negatively correlated with circulating fibrocyte count. We conclude that circulating fibrocytes were increased in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 pneumonia, and a lower fibrocyte count was associated with an increased risk of death and a slower resolution of lung CT opacities.
Quantification of airway conductance from noninvasive ventilatory drive in patients with sleep apnea
Authors: Tolbert Thomas M. , Parekh Ankit , Sands Scott A. , Mooney Anne M. , Ayappa Indu , Rapoport David M.
Published: September 2021

Classification of hypopneas as obstructive (decreased upper airway conductance) or central (decreased inspiratory flow commensurate with decreased effort) is complicated by the requirement of invasive methods, such as esophageal manometry. Here, we demonstrate that using a few esophageal pressure measurements to account for the interactions between inspiratory flow, pressure, and noninvasive ventilatory drive allows estimation of upper airway conductance. Further studies may use these findings to quantify airway obstruction completely noninvasively.
Acute erythropoietin injection increases muscle mitochondrial respiratory capacity in young men: a double-blinded randomized crossover trial
Authors: Larsen Steen , Dam Søndergård Stine , Eg Sahl Ronni , Frandsen Jacob , Morville Thomas , Dela Flemming , Helge Jørn W.
Published: September 2021

The effect of an acute rHuEPO injection on skeletal muscle mitochondrial function was investigated in young healthy male subjects. rHuEPO has an acute effect on skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiratory capacity in humans, where an increased mitochondrial respiratory capacity was seen. This could be the first step leading to increased mitochondrial biogenesis.
Active Ingredients and Potential Mechanisms of the Gan Jiang-Huang Qin-Huang Lian-Ren Shen Decoction against Ulcerative Colitis: A Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking-Based Study
Authors: Zhou Ce , Zhou Hang , Zhang Furong , Hao Liangliang , Guo Jing
Published: September 2021

Background. Ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic and nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease, seriously affects the quality of patients’ life. Han Re Bing Yong Fa (treating diseases with both cool- and warm-natured herbs) is a classical therapeutic principle of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which is often used to treat chronic diseases, including UC. The Gan Jiang-Huang Qin-Huang Lian-Ren Shen decoction (GJHQHLRSD), a representative of Han Re Bing Yong Fa, is effective in alleviating inflammatory symptoms in UC. However, the pharmacological mechanism underlying its anti-inflammatory effect remains unclear. Methods. A network pharmacology strategy, including the construction and analysis of the drug–disease network, was used to explore the complex mechanism of GJHQHLRSD treatment of UC. In addition, molecular docking technology was used to preliminarily examine the binding ability of the potential active components and core therapeutic targets of GJHQHLRSD. Results. The network pharmacology results revealed 140 targets of GJHQHLRSD which are involved in UC. The PPI network analysis identified seven target genes: BCL2L1, NR3C1, ALOX5, S1PR5, NR1I2, CYP2D6, and LPAR6. The molecular docking results revealed that the following displayed strongest combined effects: EGFR with kaempferol, ERK1 with worenine, STAT3 with Palmidin A, BCL2L1 with diop and VEGFA with ginsenoside Rg3. The KEGG and gene ontology enrichment analyses results indicated that GJHQHLRSD functions by regulating the EGFR signaling pathway in UC treatment. Other effective biological processes involved in UC treatment included cancer-related as well as inflammation and viral infection signaling pathways, such as the “MicroRNAs in cancer,” “TNF signaling pathway,” and “JAK-STAT signaling pathway.” Conclusions. This study reflects the multicomponent, multitarget, and multipathway characteristics of the action mechanism of GJHQHLRSD in treating UC. Furthermore, it helps better understand the TCM therapeutic principle of Han Re Bing Yong Fa and explore novel candidate drug targets for UC treatment.
Influence Diagnostic Methods in the Poisson Regression Model with the Liu Estimator
Authors: Khan Aamna , Amanullah Muhammad , Amin Muhammad , Alharbi Randa , Muse Abdisalam Hassan , Mohamed M. S.
Published: September 2021

There is a long history of interest in modeling Poisson regression in different fields of study. The focus of this work is on handling the issues that occur after modeling the count data. For the prediction and analysis of count data, it is valuable to study the factors that influence the performance of the model and the decision based on the analysis of that model. In regression analysis, multicollinearity and influential observations separately and jointly affect the model estimation and inferences. In this article, we focused on multicollinearity and influential observations simultaneously. To evaluate the reliability and quality of regression estimates and to overcome the problems in model fitting, we proposed new diagnostic methods based on Sherman–Morrison Woodbury (SMW) theorem to detect the influential observations using approximate deletion formulas for the Poisson regression model with the Liu estimator. A Monte Carlo method is done for the assessment of the proposed diagnostic methods. Real data are also considered for the evaluation of the proposed methods. Results show the superiority of the proposed diagnostic methods in detecting unusual observations in the presence of multicollinearity compared to the traditional maximum likelihood estimation method.
A Comprehensive Method for Water Environment Assessment considering Trends of Water Quality
Authors: Bi Sheng , Wang Li , Li Yongrong , Zhang Zhenping , Wang Zhimian , Ding Xiaoling , Zhou Jianzhong
Published: September 2021

Water quality is a significant issue, and its assessment plays an important role in environmental management and pollution control. In this paper, we proposed a comprehensive water quality assessment method which takes into account both absolute and temporal trends in water quality. As the first step, we derived and applied a comprehensive pollution index (CPI) to characterize water pollution in 16 major tributaries to the Danjiangkou Reservoir, located in the upper reaches of the Hanjiang River in China. Next, we used Spearman’s rank correlation analysis to quantify temporal CPI trends in each tributary. As the final step, we conducted principal component analysis (PCA) using data on 8 water quality parameters and the temporal CPI trend from each of the 16 tributaries. The resultant comprehensive water quality assessment method identified tributaries, which stand to improve and threaten water quality in the Danjiangkou Reservoir from both immediate and future perspectives.
Prolactin-Secreting Leiomyoma Causing Hyperprolactinaemia Unresponsive to Dopamine Agonist Therapy and Resolution following Myomectomy
Authors: Barry Lucinda , Pather Selvan , Gargya Ash , Marren Anthony
Published: September 2021

Prolactin-secreting leiomyomas are rare, with only eight cases reported in the literature. This case describes a 37-year-old female with hyperprolactinaemia (1846 mIU/L; 85–500 mIU/L) refractory to cabergoline causing infertility and galactorrhea. MRI pituitary was normal. The patient had a known enlarging uterine leiomyoma on serial pelvic ultrasounds (15.2 cm × 9.1 cm × 12.1 cm). The serum prolactin returned to subnormal levels two days postmyomectomy and showed recovery to normal levels in the months following surgery. Immunostaining of the leiomyoma for prolactin was negative. Despite not staining for prolactin, quick resolution of the patient’s hyperprolactinaemia after myomectomy supports the diagnosis of a prolactin-secreting fibroid. A prolactin-secreting leiomyoma should be considered in patients with hyperprolactinaemia and normal pituitary MRI which is refractory to dopamine receptor agonist therapy who also have evidence of a uterine fibroid. In patients wishing to seek fertility, myomectomy should be considered to allow for normal ovulation and possibility of future fertility.
Myoma Expulsion after Uterine Artery Embolization
Authors: Amaral Vivian Fernanda do , Yochiy Fernanda Yumi , Furlanetto Mário Luiz , Payão Spencer Luiz Marques
Published: September 2021

Introduction. Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign pelvic tumors in women over 35 years and can be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Among the main treatment strategies, there are hormone therapy, hysterectomy, myomectomy, and uterine artery embolization (UAE), a recent and promising treatment for patients who wish to avoid hysterectomy. Ideal candidates for UAE are women with symptomatic uterine leiomyomas that present no desire for pregnancy, premenopausal and heavy menstrual bleeding, or dysmenorrhea caused by intramural fibroids. Case Presentation. A 36-year-old female diagnosed with leiomyomas and an extensive history of failed previous treatments who, in order to preserve her uterus, underwent UAE and had tumor expulsion 15 days after the procedure. The patient remained eight months in amenorrhea and, currently, presents normal hormone levels and irregular periods. Conclusion. UAE presents itself as a minimally invasive procedure and as an efficient alternative for those patients who wish to preserve their uteri and also improve their symptoms and quality of life.
Joint Processing of DOA Estimation and Signal Separation for Planar Array Using Fast‐PARAFAC Decomposition
Authors: Que Zhongyuan , Jin Benzhou , Li Jianfeng
Published: September 2021

A joint processing of direction of arrival (DOA) and signal separation for planar array is proposed in this paper. Through sensor array processing theory, the output data of a planar array can be reconstructed as a parallel factor (PARAFAC) model, which can be decomposed with the trilinear alternating least square (TALS) algorithm. Aiming at the problem of slow speed on convergence for the standard PARAFAC method, we introduce the propagator method (PM) to accelerate the convergence of the TALS method and propose a novel method to jointly separate signals and estimate the corresponding DOAs. Given the initial angle estimates with PM, the number of iterations of TALS can be reduced considerably. The experiments indicate that our method can carry out signal separation and DOA estimation for typical modulated signals well and remain the same performance as the standard PARAFAC method with lower computational complexity, which verifies that our algorithm is effective.
Combination of Chinese and Western Medicine Optimizes the Intestinal Microbiota of Exacerbated Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Rats
Authors: Li Xiaojun , Li Ya , Mao Jing , Bian Qingqing , Xuan Yinshuang , Shen Tingting , Li Suyun
Published: September 2021

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) changes the structure of the intestinal microbiota and activates the acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD). Previous studies showed that the way to treat COPD and AECOPD via combination of Chinese and Western medicine was successful. However, the effect of the intervention on the structure of the intestinal microbiota has not been studied. In this study, we collected feces from model rats following intervention, integrated with Chinese and Western medicine, and used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to clarify the effect on intestinal microbiota. Methods. Twenty-five rats were randomized into the control, COPD, AECOPD, Western medicine (moxifloxacin hydrochloride tablets + salbutamol sulfate tablets, MXF/STL), and integrated Chinese and Western medicine (Tong Sai granules + moxifloxacin hydrochloride tablets + salbutamol sulfate tablets + Bu Fei Yi Shen granules + salbutamol sulfate tablets, TMS/FS) groups. Lipopolysaccharide-combined cigarette smoke exposure method was used to simulate the acute exacerbation-stabilization of COPD. Then, the model rats were intervened. Results. The intervention of combination Chinese and Western medicine improved the lung function, decreased the C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Serum Amyloid A (SAA), and relieved pathological damage to the pulmonary alveoli and intestinal mucous of AECOPD rats. The proportion of Firmicutes, TM7, Oscillospira, Clostridium, Ruminococcus, Blautia, Treponema, and Turicibacter decreased, whereas that of Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Lactobacillus, and Allobaculum increased via the intervention with the combination of Chinese and Western medicine. Conclusions. The intervention with Chinese and Western medicine optimizes the intestinal microbiota structure in AECOPD rat model, which provides a basis for the COPD study in the Chinese medicine.
Gastric Mucosal Abnormality and Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Population-Based Gastric Biopsy Cohort Study in Sweden
Authors: Yu Jingru , Song Huan , Ekheden Isabella , Löhr Matthias , Ploner Alexander , Ye Weimin
Published: September 2021

Background:

It remains open whether gastric precancerous lesions are associated with an elevated risk of pancreatic cancer. Our aim was to investigate the association between gastric mucosal status and pancreatic cancer risk.

Methods:

Patients with gastric biopsies [normal, minor changes, superficial gastritis, and atrophic gastritis/intestinal metaplasia/dysplasia (AG/IM/Dys)] from the Swedish histopathology registers during 1979 to 2011 were included. Cross-linkages with several nationwide registries allowed complete follow-up and identification of pancreatic cancer cases until 2014. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and HRs were estimated.

Results:

During 3,438,248 person-years of follow-up with 318,653 participants, 3,540 cases of pancreatic cancer were identified. The same pattern of excess risk of pancreatic cancer compared with the general population was observed across all groups: a peak of 12- to 21-fold excess risk in the first year after biopsy [e.g., normal: SIR = 17.4; 95% confidence interval (CI), 15.7–19.3; AG/IM/Dys: SIR = 11.5; 95% CI, 9.9–13.4], which dropped dramatically during the second and third years, followed by 20% to 30% increased risk after the third year (e.g., normal: SIR = 1.2; 95% CI, 1.1–1.4; AG/IM/Dys: SIR = 1.3; 95% CI, 1.1–1.5). However, no significant excess risk was observed with the normal gastric mucosa as reference.

Conclusions:

This unique, large pathologic cohort study did not find evidence that abnormal gastric mucosal status is causally associated with a long-term pancreatic cancer risk. However, a highly increased short-term risk was observed for people undergoing gastroscopy with biopsy sampling compared with the general population.

Impact:

Further studies for a long-term risk of pancreatic cancer in patients with gastric biopsies are needed, with further adjustments.
A Patient with Recurrent Severe Hypoglycemic Attacks and Mitochondrial Complex III Deficiency, Nuclear Type 3: a Novel UQCRB Variant
Authors: Koç Yekedüz Merve , Öncül Ümmühan , Köse Engin , Ezgü Fatih , Eminoğlu Fatma Tuba
Published: September 2021

Common causes of hypoglycemia include hyperinsulinism, hormonal deficiencies, fatty acid oxidation disorders, and glycogen storage diseases; however, rare causes should also be considered for the condition. Mitochondrial complex III deficiency shows an autosomal recessive or a mitochondrial inheritance pattern. To date, mitochondrial complex III deficiency, nuclear type 3 attributable to a pathogenic variant of the UQCRB gene (MIM 615158) has been identified in only 2 pediatric patients; both presented with hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis. In this paper, we present a patient with mitochondrial complex III deficiency, nuclear type 3, UQCRB variant associated with acute hypoglycemia and lactic acidosis episodes. The male patient was admitted on the first day of life with tachypnea, metabolic acidosis, and hypoglycemia. Up to 10 years of age, he was admitted 7 times with abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever. His blood tests revealed hypoglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and hyperlactatemia. At 10 years of age, a whole-exome sequencing (WES) analysis was performed identifying a homozygous c.309_313delAGAAA (p.Glu104ArgfsTer10) pathogenic variant of the UQCRB gene. Once the common causes of hypoglycemia are excluded, it is essential to perform a WES analysis for other rare causes. Thus, rare disorders such as mitochondrial complex III deficiency can be diagnosed.
The Role of Cell-Free Plasma DNA in Patients with Cardiorenal Syndrome Type 1
Authors: Virzì Grazia Maria , Clementi Anna , Milan Manani Sabrina , Castellani Chiara , Battaglia Giovanni Giorgio , Angelini Annalisa , Vescovo Giorgio , Ronco Claudio
Published: September 2021

Background: Recent research highlighted the potential role of circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA), resulted by apoptosis or cell necrosis, as a prognostic marker in the setting of different clinical conditions. Cardiorenal syndrome type 1 (CRS type 1) is characterized by a rapid worsening of cardiac function leading to acute kidney injury (AKI). Apoptosis of renal epithelial cells is proposed as a mechanism involved in CRS type 1. In this study, we investigated cfDNA levels in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) and CRS type 1 and the possible correlation between cfDNA levels and inflammatory and apoptotic parameters. Methods: We enrolled 17 AHF patients and 15 CRS type 1 who exhibited AKI at the time of admission (caused by AHF) or developed AKI during the first 48 h from admission. cfDNA was extracted from plasma and quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Plasma levels of NGAL, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-18, and caspase-3 were measured. Results: We observed significantly higher levels of cfDNA in patients with CRS type 1 than patients with AHF. Caspase-3, IL-6, IL-18, and NGAL levels resulted significantly increased in patients with CRS type 1. Moreover, a positive correlation between cfDNA levels and caspase-3 levels was found, as well as between cfDNA levels and IL-6 and renal parameters. Conclusion: Our study explores the premise of cfDNA as a marker for apoptosis and inflammation in CRS type 1 patients. cfDNA could potentially serve as an index for noninvasive monitoring of tissue damage and apoptosis in patients with AKI induced by AHF.
Severe Hypertriglyceridemia Induced by Docetaxel: A Novel Case Report
Authors: Saito Yoshitaka , Takekuma Yoh , Takeshita Takashi , Sugawara Mitsuru
Published: September 2021

Docetaxel (DOC) is one of the most effective agents for breast cancer treatment. Here, we report docetaxel-induced severe hypertriglyceridemia in a patient previously diagnosed with hyperlipidemia and corresponding therapeutic intervention. A postmenopausal woman, with previously controlled hyperlipidemia using rosuvastatin 5 mg daily, was diagnosed with stage IIB breast cancer with human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 overexpression; she received DOC (75 mg/m2), pertuzumab, and trastuzumab treatment as neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The serum triglyceride level was mildly higher than normal, and cholesterol level was normal at baseline. The serum triglyceride level was almost stable after chemotherapy initiation but suddenly increased to grade 3 (770 mg/dL) after the third cycle of the treatment without any symptoms. Sustained-release bezafibrate 400 mg was administered, resulting in a significant decrease to the baseline level; bezafibrate was discontinued on day 28 of the fourth chemotherapy as neoadjuvant chemotherapy was completed. The level was stable around the baseline level during adjuvant chemotherapy with pertuzumab and trastuzumab. Therefore, DOC-induced severe hypertriglyceridemia was strongly indicated in this case. The mechanism underlying the symptoms remains unclear; we speculate that it could be a resultant of a decrease in lipid metabolism as the patient had grade 2 diarrhea. Moreover, her backgrounds, such as mild hypertriglyceridemia, postmenopausal, diabetes, and obesity, in addition to DOC administration might have affected the outcome. Fibrate administration and cessation of treatment were as effective as in previous reports. DOC-induced hypertriglyceridemia presents with the possibility of severe complications. Elucidation of the exact mechanisms and epidemiological features is required for better management.
Spinal Cord Diffuse Leptomeningeal Glioneuronal Tumor Presenting without Leptomeningeal Dissemination
Authors: Perez-Vega Carlos , Akinduro Oluwaseun O. , Cheek Bradley J. , Beier Alexandra D.
Published: September 2021

Background and Importance: Diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor (DLGNT) represents a provisional entity in the 2016 World Health Organization classification of tumors; it is characterized by a widespread leptomeningeal growth and oligodendroglial-like cytology. To this day, 4 pediatric patients have been reported to present with an isolated spinal cord tumor in the absence of leptomeningeal dissemination. Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in only 1 patient. We present the clinical and technical nuances of this unique type of tumor, as well as the second reported case of GTR in a patient with DLGNT. Clinical Presentation: A 4-year-old boy presented to the emergency department after an episode of flaccid paralysis of bilateral lower extremities. MRI showed an intramedullary spinal cord tumor centered at T8. The patient was taken to the operative room, where a laminectomy and tumor resection were performed; cystic and solid tumor components were identified. Pathology report was consistent with DLGNT. After achieving GTR, patient is free of recurrence after a 15-month follow-up. Conclusion: No standard treatment for DLGNT has been identified. Current literature report surgery and chemotherapy with variable success rates. DLGNT presenting as an isolated intramedullary tumor is an uncommon condition which progression appears to be halted when treated promptly. Identifying solid and cystic components of this tumor is crucial for achieving GTR.
LncRNA PCAT19 Regulates Neuropathic Pain via Regulation of miR-182-5p/JMJD1A in a Rat Model of Chronic Constriction Injury
Authors: Huo Miao , Zheng Xingxing , Bai Ning , Xu Ruifen , Yang Guang , Zhao Ziyu
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Neuropathic pain (NP) is one of the most severe chronic pain types. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that long noncoding RNA (LncRNA) plays a key role in a variety of human diseases, including NP. However, the role of LncRNA prostate cancer-associated transcript 19 (PCAT19) in NP and its specific mechanism remain unclear. Methods: A chronic constrictive injury (CCI) rat model was established. Rat paw withdrawal threshold and paw withdrawal latency were used to evaluate the neuronal pain behavior of rats in this model. mRNA expression of PCAT19, neuroinflammatory factor, microRNA (miR)-182-5p, and Jumonji domain containing 1A (JMJD1A) were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. ELISA analysis was used to detect inflammatory factor protein expression. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to evaluate the targeting relationship between genes. Results: PCAT19 was continuously upregulated in CCI rats. miR-182-5p was the target of PCAT19, and miR-182-5p was increased after PCAT19 knockdown. NP behaviors such as mechanical ectopic pain and thermal hyperalgesia as well as neuroinflammation can be reduced by knocking down PCAT19. However, the injection of miR-182-5p antagomir significantly reversed the level of the NP behaviors and neuroinflammation caused by PCAT19 knockdown. Besides, dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that JMJD1A was the target gene of miR-182-5p. The level of JMJD1A in CCI rats increased with time. After PCAT19 knockdown, JMJD1A was significantly decreased, but inhibition of miR-182-5p can reverse its levels. Conclusion: This study shows that PCAT19 plays a role in NP by targeting the miR-182-5p/JMJD1A axis, and PCAT19 can be used as a new therapeutic target for NP.
ПРОФЕСІЙНА САМОРЕАЛІЗАЦІЯ МЕДИЧНОЇ СЕСТРИ АМБУЛАТОРІЇ СІМЕЙНОЇ МЕДИЦИНИ
Authors: Карась М. П. , Коцаба Ю. Я.
Published: September 2021

У статті наведено результати дослідження, в ході якого вивчали рівень професійної самореалізації серед медичних сестер амбулаторії сімейної медицини.
ДЕОНТОЛОГІЧНІ ПРИНЦИПИ ТА ПСИХОЛОГІЧНІ ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ПРОФЕСІЙНОЇ ВЗАЄМОДІЇ МЕДИЧНИХ СЕСТЕР І ПАЦІЄНТІВ
Authors: Тишкевич-Львова Є. В.
Published: September 2021

У статті розглянуто деонтологічні принципи та психологічні особливості професійної взаємодії медичних сестер і пацієнтів. Встановлено, що ефективність взаємодії медичних сестер із пацієнтами залежить від їх уміння встановлювати контакт із ними. У своїй професійній діяльності медичні сестри повинні дотримуватися деонтологічних правил, які є основою різних моделей взаємодії медсестер та пацієнтів (уважний догляд за хворими, «не нашкодь», здатність швидко приймати рішення у складних ситуаціях, добросовісність у виконанні професійних обов’язків). Окреслено існуючі моделі взаємодії медичних сестер і пацієнтів (керівництво, партнерство, контрактна, інженерна, патерналістська, колегіальна).
Determination of phagocytic activity of S. Aureus strains isolated from children with measles
Authors: Oliynyk N.M. , Kravets N.Ya.
Published: September 2021

Summary. S. aureus is one of the world's most common pathogens of infectious diseases. It is known that the development of infection is facilitated by various factors and factors of virulence of staphylococci. Much less is known about their interaction with each other and the protective mechanisms of the host's immune system. The importance of immunocompetent cells in the development of the inflammatory process was the basis for studying the ability to phagocytose strains of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from the nasopharynx of children with measles. The aim of the study – to determine the ability to phagocytose Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from children with measles by neutrophilic granulocytes and peripheral blood monocytes. Materials and Methods. The phagocytic response was assessed using the following indicators: phagocytosis activity or the percentage of phagocytic-active leukocytes, phagocytosis index – the average number of absorbed microbes per phagocyte. During the study, two groups were formed: group 1 – experimental (35 patients with measles); group 2 – control (samples of normal microflora from almost healthy people – 15 persons). The material from the oropharynx was taken with a sterile swab, examined by bacteriological method. The quantitative composition of bacteria was reflected in the number of colony forming units (CFU) in terms of dilution of the test material. Identification of microorganisms was performed according to standard schemes. Phagocytosis studies were performed by the method of Kost and Stenko. Results. During the study, it was found that neutrophilic granulocytes play an important role in the process of phagocytosis. Phagocytic activity of neutrophils isolated from children with measles and monocytes was less than 46.9 % and 38.8 % compared with the group of healthy individuals. There was also a decrease in the phagocytic index in phagocytic leukocytes relative to the culture of S. aureus isolated from children with measles: neutrophils – 31.7 %, monocytes – 38.6 %. Conclusions. The decrease in the phagocytic ability of Staphylococcus aureus culture isolated from children with measles by phagocytic cells in the experimental group is apparently due to the presence of virulence factors of the pathogen, which significantly inhibit phagocytosis and cause the ability of microorganisms to persist for a long time
ОЦІНКА РАННІХ КЛІНІЧНИХ ТА ФУНКЦІОНАЛЬНИХ РЕЗУЛЬТАТІВ ПІСЛЯ ПРОШИВАННЯ РОЗРИВІВ МЕНІСКІВ ПІД АРТРОСКОПІЧНИМ КОНТРОЛЕМ ІЗ ВИКОРИСТАННЯМ ТЕХНІК «АLL-INSIDE» ТА «ІNSIDE-OUT»
Authors: Грубар Ю. О. , Грубар М. Ю.
Published: September 2021

Резюме. Сучасні люди з активним способом життя та ростом його тривалості виконують все більше фізичних навантажень як у повсякденному житті, так і в спорті, що збільшує ризик ушкодження менісків. Оперативні втручання на менісках, зокрема часткові меніскектомії, стали однією з найчастіших оперативних ортопедичних процедур, а сукупний ризик ушкодження менісків, що вимагає хірургічного втручання у пацієнтів у віці від 10 до 64 років, сягає 15 %. Вважається, що зшивання ушкодженого меніска під артроскопічним контролем запобігає раннім дегенеративним змінам в колінному суглобі, особливо у пацієнтів молодшого віку.
Мета дослідження – оцінити ранні клінічні та функціональні результати після ушивання розривів менісків під артроскопічним контролем із використанням технік «all-inside» та «inside-out».
Матеріали і методи. У дослідженні взяли участь 39 пацієнтів віком від 14 до 39 років із травмою колінного суглоба. Під час спостереження 5 осіб були втрачені з невідомих нам причин. Із 34 осіб, яких включили в подальше спостереження, чоловіки становили 61,76 % (21) та жінки 38,24 % (13). Вік обстежуваних був (22,3±3,2) року. Середні терміни від моменту отримання травми до оперативного втручання становили (26,6±3,8) дня. Обстеження пацієнтів проводили згідно зі стандартами надання медичної допомоги пацієнтам із травмою колінного суглоба. Вони включали як загальноклінічні, так й інструментальні методи дослідження: рентгенографію, сонографію та магнітно-резонансну томографію (МРТ). Для прошивання менісків за технікою «all-inside» застосовували систему FAST-FIX ™ 360 та Arthrex 2.0 FiberWire Meniscus Repair Needles для техніки «inside-out».
Результати. За оціночною шкалою Lysholm J (1982) отримано наступні результати: «відмінні» у 19 (55,89 %) пацієнтів, «хороші» – 8 (23,52 %), «задовільні» – 5 (14,70 %) та «незадовільні» – у 2 (5,89 %) пацієнтів. Причиною незадовільних результатів стали раннє та неадекватне навантаження на суглоб у процесі реабілітаційних заходів у перші 3 місяці після втручання.
Висновки. Застосування шва меніска технікою «all-inside» при використанні системи Fast-fix ™ 360 та Arthrex 2.0 fiberwire meniscus repair needles техніка «inside-out» дозволяє безпечно зшивати розриви меніска, особливо заднього рогу та тіла, та дає хороші клінічні та фукціональні результати.
ГІСТОЛОГІЧНЕ ДОСЛІДЖЕННЯ ТОНКОЇ КИШКИ У ЩУРІВ ПРИ ЕКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНОМУ МОДЕЛЮВАННІ ГОСТРОГО ПОШИРЕНОГО ПЕРИТОНІТУ НА ФОНІ СТРЕПТОЗОТОЦИНІНДУКОВАНОГО ЦУКРОВОГО ДІАБЕТУ
Authors: Вервега Б. М.
Published: September 2021

Резюме. Актуальність гострого поширеного перитоніту (ГПП) на тлі цукрового діабету зумовлена поширеністю ендокринного захворювання та високими показниками летальності при видозміненому перебігу запального процесу очеревини в результаті гіперглікемії. Тяжкість перебігу даної поєднаної патології зумовлена прогресуванням ентеральної недостатності, яка супроводжується вираженими морфологічними змінами в стінці тонкої кишки, та є вхідними воротами для бактерійної контамінації.
Мета дослідження – вивчити морфологічні зміни тонкої кишки в щурів у динаміці експериментального моделювання гострого поширеного перитоніту на фоні стрептозотоциніндукованого цукрового діабету (СТД).
Матеріали і методи. В експерименті використано 48 білих щурів-самців. Цукровий діабет у дослідних тварин моделювали шляхом одноразового інтраперитонеального введення стрептозотоцину (Sigma) з розрахунку 60 мг/кг, ГПП – введенням 0,5 мл 10 % профільтрованої калової суспензії у черевну порожнину. Контрольну групу склали білі щури (n=8), яким підшкірно вводили фізіологічний розчин 0,9 % NaCl (хлориду натрію). Проводили морфологічне дослідження тонкої кишки у тварин, виведених із експерименту на 1-шу, 3-ю та 7-му доби розвитку гострого запалення очеревини на фоні супутнього цукрового діабету.
Результати. Розвиток ГПП на тлі гіперглікемії характеризується виникненням дистрофічних змін клітин слизової оболонки тонкої кишки, вираження яких зростає залежно від стадії розвитку перитоніту. Необхідно зазначити, що на 7-му добу експериментального моделювання даної поєднаної патології виявлено ознаки вакуольної дистрофії міоцитів, що свідчить про розвиток патологічного процесу в усіх оболонках стінки. Тенденція до зниження функціональної активності слизової оболонки (зменшення товщини та зниження висоти ворсин й глибини крипт) простежується упродовж усіх стадій розвитку гострого запалення очеревини. Дистрофічні зміни епітелію та м’язової оболонки, ексудативне запалення і порушення кровообігу створюють умови для порушення перистальтики й транслокації мікрофлори кишок у системний кровообіг.
Висновки. Перебіг ГПП на тлі СТД характеризується виникненням дистрофічних змін клітин слизової та м’язової оболонок тонкої кишки. Зниження функціональної активності слизової оболонки тонкої кишки та прогресування в її стінці альтеративно-ексудативних змін призводять до парезу кишок та подальшої транслокації патогенної мікрофлори в системний кровообіг й черевну порожнину.
ПОРІВНЯННЯ ВПЛИВУ МУЛЬТИМЕДІЙНИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ НА ПСИХІЧНИЙ СТАН ДІТЕЙ ТА ДОРОСЛИХ ПІД ЧАС ЛОКДАУНУ, РОБОТИ ТА НАВЧАННЯ В ОНЛАЙН-РЕЖИМІ
Authors: Венгер О. П. , Воронцова Т. О. , Іваніцька Т. І. , Бондарук Б. О. , Трохимчук А. В.
Published: September 2021

Резюме. Проблема негативного впливу мультимедійних технологій на населення є надзвичайно актуальною, особливо в період пандемії та вимушеного локдауну.

Мета дослідження – вивчити вплив пандемії COVID-19 та мультимедійних технологій на психічний стан дітей та дорослих під час локдауну, роботи та навчання в онлайн-режимі.

Матеріали і методи. Проаналізовано особливості вираження депресії, тривоги та стресу, наявність Інтернетзалежності, розладів пам’яті та уваги під час пандемії у 285 респондентів (50 дітей і 235 дорослих респондентів). Протягом дослідження ми зібрали інформацію про кількість проведеного часу респондентами в ґаджетах та використано: тест-опитувальник на наявність Інтернет-адикції Кімберлі-Янг (IAT), шкалу депресії, тривоги та стресу (DASS-21), методики дослідження уваги Х’юго-Мюнстерберг та «Дослідження короткотривалої пам’яті» і методи математичної статистики.

Результати. Опитаних поділили на дві групи відповідно до віку та чотири підгрупи відповідно до статі. Протягом дослідження було встановлено, що рівень депресії під час перебування на карантині частіше спостерігався у дітей, натомість рівень вираження тривоги та стресу – в дорослих респондентів. З’ясовано, що групою ризику для розвитку інтернет-адикції є дорослі жінки, в яких надмірне користування засобами мультимедії спостерігалося у 35 %, натомість найменш уразливими виявилися дорослі чоловіки з ймовірністю розвитку даної залежності у 14 %. Встановлено, що використання мультимедійних засобів більшою мірою викликають порушення уваги у дорослих респондентів, зокрема низький рівень спостерігався у 27,61% жінок та 20,79 % чоловіків, коли у дітей даний показник становив 7,15 і 9,1 % відповідно. Натомість у респондентів-дітей частіше було зниження пам’яті (у 7,14 % дівчат та 9,09 % хлопців), ніж у дорослих (у 2,98 % жінок та 4,95 % чоловіків).

Висновки. Рівень депресії під час перебування на карантині частіше спостерігався у дітей, натомість рівень вираження тривоги та стресу – в дорослих респондентів. Групою ризику для розвитку інтернет-адикції під час вимушеного локдауну є дорослі жінки. Використання мультимедійних засобів більшою мірою викликають порушення уваги у дорослих респондентів та порушення пам’яті серед дітей.