bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between cement and chemically improved sandy soil by column models using low-pressure injection laboratory setup
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed S. , Hussein Samir H. , Ahmed Mahmood D.
Published: February 2023

The jet grouting method for soil improvement represents an innovative geotechnical alternative for problematic soils when the classic foundations’ designs cannot be appropriate, sustainable solutions for these soils. This study’s methodology was based on producing column models using a low-pressure injection laboratory setup designed and locally manufactured to approximate the field-equipment operation. The setup design was inspired by the works of previous researchers, where its functioning was validated by systematically performing unconfined compression tests (UCTs). Two soil improvement techniques were investigated, one by low-pressure injection of a mixture of water and ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with 0.8, 1, and 1.3 W/C ratios. The other type uses silica fume (SF) as a chemical additive with 10% of the cement weight added to the water and cement mix with 1, 1.3, and 1.6 W/C ratios. The study revealed that the UCT results of SF column model samples were higher than those of OPC with an equal W/C ratio. For each binder type, the UCT sample results increase with a decrease in the W/C ratio.
Impact of overweight and obesity on epicardial adipose tissue in children with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Cielonko Luke A. , Sabati Arash A. , Chambers Melissa A. , Newbern Dorothee , Swing Edward , Chakravarthy Varshini , Mullen John , Schmidt Jaclyn , Lutz Natalie , Shaibi Gabriel Q. , Olson Micah
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) thickness, a novel marker of cardiovascular disease (CVD), is increased in children with a healthy weight and type 1 diabetes (T1D). The prevalence of obesity has increased in children with T1D and may confer additional CVD risk. The purpose of this study was to examine EAT thickness in youth with and without T1D in the setting of overweight/obesity.

Methods

Youth with overweight/obesity and T1D (n=38) or without T1D (n=34) between the ages of 6–18 years were included in this study. Echocardiogram using spectral and color flow Doppler was used to measure EAT and cardiac function. Waist circumference, blood pressure, and HbA1c, were used to calculate estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) to estimate insulin resistance in children with T1D.

Results

EAT thickness was not significantly different in youth with T1D compared to controls (2.10 ± 0.67 mm vs. 1.90 ± 0.59 mm, p=0.19). When groups were combined, EAT significantly correlated with age (r=0.449, p≤0.001), BMI (r=0.538, p≤0.001), waist circumference (r=0.552, p≤0.001), systolic BP (r=0.247, p=0.036), myocardial performance index (r=−0.287, p=0.015), ejection fraction (r=−0.442, p≤0.001), and cardiac output index (r=−0.306, p=0.009). In the group with T1D, diastolic BP (r=0.39, p=0.02) and eGDR (r=−0.48, p=0.002) correlated with EAT.

Conclusions

EAT was associated with measures of adiposity and insulin resistance but does not differ by diabetes status among youth with overweight/obesity. These findings suggest that adiposity rather than glycemia is the main driver of EAT thickness among youth with T1D.
Nonmechanical varifocal metalens using nematic liquid crystal
Authors: Zhu Shuangqi , Jiang Qiang , Wang Yongtian , Huang Lingling
Published: February 2023

Metalenses exhibit a substantial potential in replacing traditional optical component as they present a methodology for miniaturization. Lenses with tunable focal lengths can play a key role in various fields with applications in imaging, displays, and augmented and virtual reality devices. Here, we propose an electrically controllable varifocal metalens at the wavelength of 950 nm. The metasurface cascaded with nematic liquid crystal is integrated into an analog chip, which providing sequential specific two-dimensional addressable voltage patterns. The focal length of the reflective light can be modulated continuously with the change of voltage patterns. For the super-pixel cell with 6 μm period at a low voltage of 6 V, the zoom range and the zoom ratio are demonstrated to be 180 mm and 34, respectively. Besides, attributing to the enhanced forward scattering of Huygens metasurface and the large birefringence index of the liquid crystal, along with the integrated circuit compatible design, our metalens owns high integration in the NIR band under considering the practical processing. Therefore, the proposed nonmechanical varifocal metalens may unleash the full potential of continuous zoom metalens for micro-optical display and imaging applications in the future.
Study on the chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity of iron-based bioabsorbable stents
Authors: Shi Xiaoli , Zhang Lu , Liu Yanfen , Wang Jinyu , Zhang Gui , Qi Haiping , Zhang Wanqian , Zhang Deyuan , Wang Jin
Published: February 2023

Fe-based stents have been made a figure in biodegradable stents by their good mechanical capacity and biocompatibility, appropriate strength–ductility combination. Although the iron corrosion rate was not ideal, which had been optimized by iron alloy and polymer coating introduction. As a long-term implanted biodegradable material, the real concern about iron-based stents mainly laid in long-term biosafety. In this work, rats were used as an animal model to study the chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity of iron-based stents. Two years later, the changes in body weight and the physiological status during the experiment were monitored, and the blood routine and blood analysis combined with the health of major organs and histopathological tests were performed. The results demonstrated that there was no significant difference compared with the control group (316L SS) in body weight, blood routine index, blood biochemical index, and carcinogenic rate that further confirmed the biosafety of iron-based material.
A review of the thermal storage of phase change material, morphology, synthesis methods, characterization, and applications of microencapsulated phase change material
Authors: Patil Jayesh R. , Mahanwar Prakash A. , Sundaramoorthy Elamaran , Mundhe Gajanan S.
Published: February 2023

In the thermal energy storage area, microencapsulated phase change material (MPCM) is getting more popular among researchers. When phase change materials (PCMs) shift from one phase to another at a specific temperature, a significant quantity of thermal energy is stored. The PCM application focuses on upgrading worldwide energy conservation efforts in light of the rapidly dwindling fossil fuels. The thermal energy supplied by PCM is significantly influenced by the choice of supporting materials and encapsulation methods. A solution to the volume change issues of PCM, phase separation, and leakage is the PCM microencapsulation technique. One of the most common methods to increase the effectiveness of thermal storage material is attained by using PCM with microencapsulation. The preparation processes and thermal characteristics of the MPCM are summarized in this paper. This paper gives information about MPCM with its types, properties, testing, and characterizations. Tables describe specific examples of PCM with thermal properties. Applications in various fields are defined. This review gives as much information to help and be useful for new researchers in the field of thermal management systems to guide their future research.
Cnih3Deletion Dysregulates Dorsal Hippocampal Transcription across the Estrous Cycle
Authors: Mulvey Bernard , Frye Hannah E. , Lintz Tania , Fass Stuart , Tycksen Eric , Nelson Elliot C. , Morón Jose A. , Dougherty Joseph D.
Published: February 2023

In females, the hippocampus, a critical brain region for coordination of learning, memory, and behavior, displays altered physiology and behavioral output across the estrous or menstrual cycle. However, the molecular effectors and cell types underlying these observed cyclic changes have only been partially characterized to date. Recently, profiling of mice null for the AMPA receptor trafficking geneCnih3have demonstrated estrous-dependent phenotypes in dorsal hippocampal synaptic plasticity, composition, and learning/memory. We therefore profiled dorsal hippocampal transcriptomes from female mice in each estrous cycle stage, and contrasted it with that of males, across wild-type (WT) andCnih3mutants. In wild types, we identified only subtle differences in gene expression between the sexes, while comparing estrous stages to one another revealed up to >1000 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These estrous-responsive genes are especially enriched in gene markers of oligodendrocytes and the dentate gyrus, and in functional gene sets relating to estrogen response, potassium channels, and synaptic gene splicing. Surprisingly,Cnih3knock-outs (KOs) showed far broader transcriptomic differences between estrous cycle stages and males. Moreover,Cnih3knock-out drove subtle but extensive expression changes accentuating sex differential expression at diestrus and estrus. Altogether, our profiling highlights cell types and molecular systems potentially impacted by estrous-specific gene expression patterns in the adult dorsal hippocampus, enabling mechanistic hypothesis generation for future studies of sex-differential neuropsychiatric function and dysfunction. Moreover, these findings suggest an unrecognized role ofCnih3in buffering against transcriptional effects of estrous, providing a candidate molecular mechanism to explain estrous-dependent phenotypes observed withCnih3loss.
Physiological Condition-Dependent Changes in Ciliary GPCR Localization in the Brain
Authors: Brewer Kathryn M. , Engle Staci E. , Bansal Ruchi , Brewer Katlyn K. , Jasso Kalene R. , McIntyre Jeremy C. , Vaisse Christian , Reiter Jeremy F. , Berbari Nicolas F.
Published: February 2023

Primary cilia are cellular appendages critical for diverse types of Signaling. They are found on most cell types, including cells throughout the CNS. Cilia preferentially localize certain G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and are critical for mediating the signaling of these receptors. Several of these neuronal GPCRs have recognized roles in feeding behavior and energy homeostasis. Cell and model systems, such asCaenorhabditis elegansandChlamydomonas, have implicated both dynamic GPCR cilia localization and cilia length and shape changes as key for signaling. It is unclear whether mammalian ciliary GPCRs use similar mechanismsin vivoand under what conditions these processes may occur. Here, we assess two neuronal cilia GPCRs, melanin-concentrating hormone receptor 1 (MCHR1) and neuropeptide-Y receptor 2 (NPY2R), as mammalian model ciliary receptors in the mouse brain. We test the hypothesis that dynamic localization to cilia occurs under physiological conditions associated with these GPCR functions. Both receptors are involved in feeding behaviors, and MCHR1 is also associated with sleep and reward. Cilia were analyzed with a computer-assisted approach allowing for unbiased and high-throughput analysis. We measured cilia frequency, length, and receptor occupancy. We observed changes in ciliary length, receptor occupancy, and cilia frequency under different conditions for one receptor but not another and in specific brain regions. These data suggest that dynamic cilia localization of GPCRs depends on properties of individual receptors and cells where they are expressed. A better understanding of subcellular localization dynamics of ciliary GPCRs could reveal unknown molecular mechanisms regulating behaviors like feeding.
CTCF variant begets to short stature by down-regulation of IGF1
Authors: Chen Hong , Li Weiyu , Zhang Suping , Sun Yunteng , Shen Yiping , Chen Ruimin
Published: February 2023

Pathogenic variants in the transcription factor CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) are associated with mental retardation, autosomal dominant 21 (MRD21, MIM#615502). Current studies supported the strong relationship between CTCF variants and growth, yet the mechanism of CTCF mutation leading to short stature is not known. Clinical information, treatment regimens, and follow-up outcomes of a patient with MRD21 were collected. The possible pathogenic mechanisms of CTCF variants leading to short stature were investigated using immortalized lymphocyte cell lines (LCLs), HEK-293T, and immortalized normal human liver cell lines (LO2). This patient received long-term treatment with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) which resulted in an increased height of 1.0 SDS. She had low serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) before the treatment and the IGF1 level was not significantly increased during the treatment (−1.38 ± 0.61 SDS). The finding suggested that the CTCF
R567W variant could have impaired IGF1 production pathway. We further demonstrated that the mutant CTCF had a reduced ability to bind to the promoter region of IGF1, consequently significantly reducing the transcriptional activation and expression of IGF1. Our novel results demonstrated a direct positive regulation of CTCF on the transcription of the IGF1 promoter. The impaired IGF1 expression due to CTCF mutation may explain the substandard effect of rhGH treatment on MRD21 patients. This study provided novel insights into the molecular basis of CTCF-associated disorder.
Academic Map Library Weeding
Authors: Chandler Martin
Published: February 2023

While maps remain an important part of library work, there has been a dearth of scholarly discussion on weeding maps. Some authors have offered suggestions in particular contexts – notably in public libraries and U.S. depository libraries. This leaves significant room for further discussion for those outside of the U.S. context, and those with more general map libraries. Following a literature review and contextual information situating the author's involvement in the topic, a discussion of methods and appropriate considerations are offered for weeding map collections. These guidelines are offered in point form in the conclusion for ease of referral.
Bulletin Report – GIS Days 2022
Authors: Sutherland Liz , Berish Francine , Chandler Martin , Duplain René , Fuller Jordan Michael , Handren Kara , MacDonald Zack , Miller Meg
Published: February 2023

GIS Day was a small, local offering dependent on individual institutions, until the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a wealth of online events. After 3 years of successive development, 2022 saw this event span multiple days and reach beyond Western University to institutions across Canada. The planning process, events, and outcome are here described as inspiration for future events by interested parties, and to acknowledge the work of those involved while simultaneously promoting the current work in GIS being undertaken and potential future directions for event organizers.
Geographic digital divide - urban/rural issues, and internationally
Authors: Chandler Martin
Published: February 2023

This issue’s GIS Trends section discusses the current efforts underway to close the Geographic Digital Divide in Canada. While the Government of Canada has promised every Canadian will have access to high-speed internet by 2030, the actual availability is highly geographically determined, and mal actors continue efforts to restrict access. GIS companies may promote their use in closing the divide, but do not address systemic issues.
Membership list / Liste des members
Authors: Miller Meg
Published: February 2023

See PDF for listing / Voir la liste en PDF
Microwave Radiothermometry in Evaluating Brain Temperature Changes (Review)
Authors: Shevelev O. A. , Petrova M. V. , Yuriev M. Yu. , Dolgikh V. T. , Mengistu E. M. , Zhdanova M. A. , Kostenkova I. Z.
Published: February 2023

Aim. This review aims to inform physicians of different specialties (anesthesiologists, intensivists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, oncologists) about the diagnostic capabilities of microwave radiothermometry, which enables to identify and analyze features of alterations of cerebral temperature in brain damage.

The review displays a critical analysis of 80 recent Russian and foreign open access publications found by keywords.

The review presents major clinical features and pathophysiological mechanisms of cerebral thermal balance disruptions in brain lesions. Slow responsiveness and vulnerability of cerebral thermal homeostasis regulation mechanisms that underlie development of different temperature heterogeneity levels in the cerebral cortex in healthy brain and brain lesions are highlighted. The authors postulate their concept about the critical role of hyperthermia in the pathogenesis of brain damage and disruption of interconnections in the global central regulation system. A body of evidence explaining direct association between the depth of consciousness impairment and degree of cerebral cortex temperature heterogeneity manifestation is presented. It is emphasized that a significant increase in temperature heterogeneity with areas of focal hyperthermia accompanies an acute period of ischemic stroke, while in post-comatose state usually associated with prolonged impairment of consciousness, the temperature heterogeneity significantly subsides. It has been suggested that lowering of an increased and rising of the reduced temperature heterogeneity, for example by using temperature exposure, can improve altered level of consciousness in patients with brain damage. The diagnostic capabilities of various technologies used for cerebral temperature measurement, including microwave radiothermometry (MWR), are evaluated. Data on high accuracy of MWR in measurement of the cerebral cortex temperature in comparison with invasive methods are presented.

Conclusion. In healthy individuals MWR revealed a distinct daily rhythmic changes of the cerebral cortex temperature, and badly violated circadian rhythms in patients with brain lesions. Since MWR is an easy-toperform, non-invasive and objective diagnostic tool, it is feasible to use this technology to detect latent cerebral hyperthermia and assess the level of temperature heterogeneity disruption, as well as to study the circadian rhythm of temperature changes.
Assessment of the Myocardial Stress Biomarker NT-proBNP in Real Clinical Practice
Authors: Kozlov I. A. , Sokolov D. A.
Published: February 2023

Subjects and Methods. The study involved 35 vascular surgery patients of varying degrees of cardiological risk. Blood specimens were collected from each patient at 3 time-points: 1. prior to surgery (NT-proBNP1), 2 — after the procedure (NT-proBNP2), 3 — before the discharge from the hospital (NT-proBNP3). Each specimen was split into equal aliquots for biomarker quantification using two different techniques (ELISA using domestic reagents — for the 1st series of analyses, and ICLA using an imported kit — for the 2nd series). Perioperative cardiovascular complications were recorded. The consistency of the measurement results obtained by two different methods was evaluated using the Bland–Altman technique. A discrimination ability of independent variables in relation to a binary dependent variable was studied using ROC analysis.

Results. In the 1st series, ranges of the biomarker were as follows: NT-proBNP1 — 24–774 pg/ml, NT-proBNP2 — 41.2–889.1 pg/ml, NT-proBNP3 — 39.3–1013.3 pg/ml. In the 2nd series, NT-proBNP1 was 31.2–2087.0 pg/ml, NT-proBNP2 — 32.5–3754.0 pg/ml, NT-proBNP3 — 34.1–2728.0 pg/ml. In the Bland–Altman analysis, 97.03% of the values fell within the lower and upper limits of consistency (±1.96 SD of the average difference), which indicated comparability of the results in the series, but the values of NT-proBNP in the 1st series were lower than in the 2nd ones. Cardiovascular complications were registered in 3 (8.5%) patients. In the 1st series, NT-proBNP1 > 218 pg/ml predicted cardiovascular complications with a sensitivity of 66.7% and a specificity of 81.3% (AUC 0.844, 95% CI 0.681–0.944, P = 0.0003). In the 2nd series, NT-proBNP1 > 315 pg/ml predicted cardiovascular complications with a sensitivity of 66.7% and a specificity of 75.0% (AUC 0.828, 95% CI 0.663–0.934, P = 0.001).

Conclusion. The domestic ELISA kit for solid-phase enzyme immunoassay proved its clinical informativeness for quantitation of NT-proBNP demonstrating its value for diagnostic and prognostic purposes, or scientific studies. The novel domestic technique provides consistently reproducible results, although with lower reference values as compared to the standard immunochemiluminescence assay.
An analytical study of the critical values of response rate in single-arm phase II clinical trial designs
Authors: Liu Yi , Jung Sin-Ho
Published: February 2023

A single-arm phase II clinical trial is usually conducted for finding an appropriate dose-level and testing toxicity for an experimental cancer therapy in comparison to some historical controls, and is usually the most doable trial type due to the feasibility under limited budget, patient pool and medical conditions that can be met. We considered the standard setting of a single-arm two-stage phase II clinical trial, and investigated the patterns of critical values and sample sizes at both two stages of minimax and optimal designs under different design parameters, i.e., under different response rates of control and treatment, significant level of the test, and statistical power. We provided analytic derivations to the patterns we are interested under large sample approximation, and investigated them under finite ans small sample via a numerical study by considering extensively possible design parameters over a fine grid. We finally concluded that the critical values at different stages of the test are related to the sample sizes at different stages in a similar way for both optimal and minimax designs, but they also reveal some differences and reflected the nature of these two types of design.
Heat shock proteins as diagnostic markers for hepatocellular carcinoma: a novel approach
Authors: Waseem Haniya , Arshad Asharib , Awana Mariam Tariq , Masood Hifza
Published: February 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor of the liver. Heat shock proteins play their part in response to cellular stress. They are overexpressed in many forms of cancers where they shield malignant cells from stressful environment thus contributing to poor prognosis and treatment resistance. HSP 27, a heat shock protein mostly associated with Hepatitis induced hepatocellular cancer, inhibits apoptosis and HSP 70 along with HSP 90 contributes to tumor metastasis. HSP 70 count is higher in tumor cells in comparison with normal cells and it is related to tumor size, stage and vessel invasion while HSP 20 count regresses as tumor progresses. Considering all these factors, differentiation of HCC from other liver pathologies becomes much easier at an early stage. Early diagnosis of HCC is important and timely and prompt treatment can decrease the mortality associated with HCC. On the grounds of many useful characteristics like early detection and accuracy in detailing of size, invasion and metastasis of tumor our Review suggests that along with it all HSPs also have therapeutic potential as targeting the specific markers can help patients diagnosed with HCC. HSPs are the innovation from diagnosis to management to cure of HCC. Extensive research exploring Heat Shock Proteins and Hepatocellular Carcinoma was done on search engines such as Science Direct, OVID, Google Scholar, PubMed, and MEDLINE. Articles published in languages other than English were also considered. Data that were solely published in conference or meeting proceedings, websites, or books were not included.
Generation of monoclonal antibodies against PBP2a to improve diagnosis and potential treatment of MRSA infections
Authors: E Ahmed Manal M , Noureen Asmaa , Rafiq Ayesha
Published: February 2023

Background: MRSA is a type of MDR bacterium. All around the world, it leads to significant nosocomial and community-acquired diseases. The discovery of fresh ideas is very important because there are so few effective treatments for MRSA infections. PBP2a is a great candidate for the development of MRSA-specific Mabs. Aim: The purpose of this study was to create murine Mabs against PBP2a in order to enhance MRSA laboratory detection and possibly treatment. Methods: Anti-PBP2a MAb was tested for biodistribution, therapeutic, and preventative effects in comparison to vancomycin. After receiving anti-PBP2a MAb therapy, biodistribution was assessed between 12 and 96 hours later. Results: During the observation timepoints, the majority of the generated MAb stayed in the serum and just a tiny fraction was found in the kidneys, lungs, and spleen. A prophylactic experiment in mice given the lethal dosage 50 (LD50) found that treated animals with anti-PBP2a MAb had a greater survival rate than the control group. In a therapeutic experiment, one dosage of anti-PBP2a MAb reduced bacterial load in the kidneys similarly to the group treated with five doses of vancomycin, and a combination therapy with anti-PBP2a MAb and vancomycin was more effective than either drug used alone. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggested that an anti-PBP2a MAb may be extremely useful in the creation of innovative diagnostic tools and promising treatments for preventative and therapeutic measures against MRSA infections.
The role of biologics in the pathogenesis and treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Syabbalo Nightingale
Published: February 2023

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune-mediated disorder characterized by inflammation, and intraepithelial infiltration of eosinophils in the esophageal epithelium. It is associated with unbearable symptoms, such as dysphagia, and bolus impaction which affect the nutritional status, and quality of life of the patients. It is diagnosed from a thorough medical history, and confirmed by endoscopy and esophageal biopsy. Traditionally, it has been treated with elimination diet, proton pump inhibitors, and swallowed topical corticosteroids. However, several of the patients with EoE are refractory to the treatment. Eosinophilic esophagitis like eosinophilic asthma is a T helper type 2 lymphocyte (Th2)-mediated allergic disease. During an allergic inflammation Th2 cells secrete cytokines, such as interleukin-5 (IL-5). IL-4, and IL-13 which play a key role in the pathogenesis of EoE. Th2 cytokines promote eosinophilopoiesis, differentiation, proliferation, maturation and activation of eosinophils. Activated eosinophils liberate several cytotoxic cationic proteins, and reactive oxygen species which cause epithelial injury, inflammation, and remodeling, which later progresses to esophageal fibrosis. Dupilumab (dupixent®)is a monoclonal antibody which target the IL-4 receptor (IL-4Rα) which signals for both IL-4 and IL-13. Dupilumab is the only biologic which is effective, and approved for the treatment of EoE in adults and children 12 years and older. Treatment with dupixent® has been shown to improve dysphagia, dilate and relax the gullet, and allow patients to enjoy their cherished dish. Biologics such as dupilumab should be administered early in patients with EoE in order to prevent the menacing complications of the disease, such as esophageal stricture, and esophageal perforation, which necessitate surgical esophageal dilatation, and repair.
Evaluation of transfusion incidents and near-misses in a hospital on the coast of Santa Catarina
Authors: Regina Belem Lermen Amanda , Cobianchi da Costa Daiane , Casagranda Bueno Edneia , Pucci Vieira Larissa , Geraldo Alexandre
Published: February 2023

Transfusion medicine is not free of risks and their source could be both technical and human. The near-miss is a deviation from a procedure detected before its occurrence, which could result in an erroneous transfusion and/or a transfusion reaction. The incidents in turn comprise the deviations in the security policy, leading to inadequate transfusions. This study aimed to evaluate transfusion incidents and near-misses of a transfusion agency on the coast of Santa Catarina, Brazil. The pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical phases of the pre-transfusion tests and transfusion procedure were evaluated using forms based on the current hemotherapy legislation and filled out locally by the researchers. The obtained data were sectioned in identifications (IDs) and their respective phases. Among the evaluations, 10,562 on-site observations were counted, and nonconformities were detected in the pre-analytical and analytical phases of the pre-transfusion tests. Nonconformities were detected due to the non-execution of the tests (6.7%), non-identification of the patient prior to biological sample collection (69.9%) and blood component installation (75.3%). Non-follow-up of the initial transfusion was 81.9% of non-compliance. However, there were a low number of near-misses, totaling 0.10%. In the period of this study it was possible identifying that the in loco evaluation of hemotherapy activities is important to detect incidents and near-misses. In this way, an audit of hemotherapy procedures and the training of professionals can help to reduce incidents and near-misses caused by lack of human attention.
Analysis of 206 oncohematological patients admitted to the intensive care unit
Authors: Guadalupe Antelo , Cesar Cosacow , Daniela Maymó , Julia Laviano , Equiza Tomas Rivero , Florencia Fornillo , Ignacio Bonelli , Jose Fernández
Published: February 2023

The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) provides support that includes oncohematology (OH) patients. There is tendency to delay admission of this patients to the unit. Currently, advances in the molecular biology of specific mutations; advances in stem cell transplant and immunotherapy have produced a change in the prognosis of patients. A descriptive, retrospective cohort study was carried out in adult patients with oncohematological diseases who were admitted to the ICU, in the period from January 2009 to February 2021 to evaluate mortality in the unit as the main objective as well as associations between epidemiological, clinical variables and others related to the oncohematological situation and mortality during this period. 206 patients were included. The median age was 59years (IQR: 46-68). The median on days of hospitalization was 15 (IQR: 8-28) whilst the median of days in the ICU was 5 (3-8). Mortality was evaluated at the time of discharge from the ICU, reaching 45% (93 patients), 47% at 30days and 49% at 60days, respectively. The median survival of the global population was 15.5days (IQR: 4.25-60). The median APACHE II scored 22 points (IQR: 15-25). A statistically significant relationship was found in the multivariate analysis for mortality with the APACHE II variables (p = 0.0001) and the requirement for mechanical ventilation (p = 0.021). Using the ROC curve method, the APACHE II score value of 22 was obtained as the point of greatest statistical significance. The log rank test method was used to compare patients with a value greater or less than 22. In conclusion, the value of 22 points scored on APACHE II and the requirement for mechanical ventilation served to discriminate between two groups of patients with different prognosis.
Primary testicular diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in young patient: an uncommon presentation
Authors: Drideb Alami , Saddi Bouchnafat
Published: February 2023

Primary testicular lymphoma (PTL) is a rare form of extranodal lymphoma, this neoplasm is the most common malignant tumor of the testis in the elderly age, and the majority of cases are histologically diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), accounting for 80% to 98% of non-hodgkin lymphoma. Patients with primary testicular DLBCL show a continuously high risk of recurrence with no plateau in the survival curves and a tendency to involve other extranodal sites, especially the central nervous system and the contralateral testis. We report a rare and uncommon presentation of a primary testicular diffuse B cell lymphoma in young patient.
Fetal outcome in pathological cardiotocography (CTG), omdurman maternity hospital
Authors: Eltayeb Mohammed , Mustafa Abdelkhalig
Published: February 2023

Objective: To determine the role of pathological cardiotocography in evaluating the fetal well-being. Methods: This is cross sectional hospital-based study. Results Our study included 100 with abnormal CTG, 72 (72%) of them were intrapartum and classified as pathological CTG, and 28 patients had their CTG during antenatal periods (Non-stress test), all of these 28 patients, were delivered by C/S (100%), with 25 (89.2%) babies cried immediately and 3(10.7%) cried after resuscitation, their Apgar scores at 1minute was >8 in 25(89.2%) babies. Out of 72 intrapartum pathological CTG, 59(81.9) were delivered by C/S, 8 (11.1%) by Instrumental delivery and 5 (6.9%) through NVD, 21 (29.1%) of babies cried immediately, 46(63.8%) cried after resuscitation and 5(6.9%) their outcome was early neonatal deaths. Conclusion: CTG found to be important in evaluating the fetal well-being. Adjunctive methods are required to improve the sensitivity and specificity of fetal monitoring.
Seroprevalence of syphilis among Sudanese pregnant ladies in Berber city, Sudan
Authors: Lameddeen Esraa AwadIbnldris , Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim , HamedElnil Yousif Fadlalla , Abdelrahman Nahla Ahmed Mohammed , Mohammed Hamad Mosab Nouraldein
Published: February 2023

Background: Because syphilis is often asymptomatic, it might go unrecognized. Furthermore, infection transfer from mother to unborn child is a concern. Preventing poor pregnancy effects in relation with maternal infection by screening and treating women for syphilis throughout pregnancy. Aiming at exploring anti treponemal antibodies among pregnant women in Berber Teaching Hospital our study was implemented. Methods: A cross-sectional, hospital based study was performed at Berber Teaching Hospital in River Nile State. Encompassed pregnant women who attended Hospital. Following an explanation of the study's goal, 100 serum samples were taken, and data was collected from each respondent using an interview questionnaire, 100 blood samples were obtained to identify syphilis anti bodeis. All specimens were analyzed using the Rapid Plasma Reagin test (RPR), which was confirmed by an enzyme linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) (fortress diagnostics/UK). Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 19) was used to manage informational gathered. Results: ELISA found 9% of syphilis positive patients, whereas RPR identified 10%.Age of respondents ranged between 16 to 43 years, 53 % of study participants categorized at (30 – 36 years) and 62 % at third trimester of gestational. The highest prevalence of syphilis was 4 % reported in age group (23 – 29 years) and 5% at third trimester. Conclusion: The syphilis sero-prevalence among pregnant women in the current research was 9% by ELISA and 10% by RPR. More precise and sensitive procedures, such as PCR, must be used to corroborate the findings
Gap in breast feeding practices between caesarean and normal deliveries
Authors: Aditi Aditi , Jaiswal Ajit Kumar , Qamar Arish
Published: February 2023

Background: World Health Organization universally recommends colostrum, a mother's first milk or the 'very first food' as perfect for every newborn. It has long-term health benefits associated with both the mother and child. Maternal benefits of breastfeeding include faster involution of the uterus and a lower risk of hemorrhage after birth. Caesarean mothers facing difficulty breastfeeding within an hour post child birth is a rising primary concern for medical professionals worldwide. Objectives: This aspect in the periphery of the C-section needs the specific aim of the study; these proximately affect maternal health. The paper aims to examine the difference in prevalence between C-sections and normal delivery on colostrum feeding practiced by women. Methods: The data used was of fourth round of National Family Health Survey (2015-16). Bivariate and multivariate techniques have been carried out to know the difference in the prevalence of colostrum feeding among mothers giving birth by both types of delivery. Conclusions: We found that women who delivered via C-section had a lower prevalence of feeding colostrum to the newborn than those who delivered normally. A significant, around 15 percentage point difference was found between both the types. Findings suggest that surgical delivery, unless necessary, should be discouraged. It will be quite effective in addressing the delay in colostrum feeding problem
Physiological effects of acupuncture in the anaesthetic time
Authors: Rodríguez Diego Díaz , Blanco Carmen Sánchez , Torres Bartolome Fernández
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Traditional chinese (Chinese) medicine (TCM) is one of the oldest medical systems in the world. It hypothesizes the existence of many points in the way of channels, where the vital energy (Qi) flows. These points have therapeutic actions and many of them can be used in the anaesthetic time to improve the perioperative patient management. Materials and methods: A bibliographic research was conducted to identify the evidence based of acupuncture benefits during the anaesthetic time and the physiological mechanisms implicated in these actions. Results and discussion: The main areas where acupuncture showed evidence based benefits during the anaesthetic time were anxiety,sedation, hypnosis, analgesic requirements and nausea and vomiting. Almost all these actions are mediated by the nervous system and chemical substances such as endogenous opioids and some neurotransmitters. Despite the great knowledge it has been reached in this review on the basic mechanisms that explain actions of acupuncture during anaesthesia, more studies are needed to allow us to know in detail and precision the physiological mechanisms and the structures involved. Conclusion: The understanding of the mechanisms underlying the actions of acupuncture during anaesthesia has advanced greatly in recent years, however more studies are needed to identify them more precisely.
Determination of nephrotoxic effects due to Sugammadex and Rocuronium administration in rats
Authors: Uludağ Öznur , Doğan Zümrüt , Annaç Ebru
Published: February 2023

Background: Nowadays, neuromuscular blocker rocuronium and antagonizing sugammadex are being used in anesthesia practice. Rocuronium and sugammadex complexes are eliminated via the kidneys. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sugammadex and rocuronium plus sugammadex on histopathological evaluation and antioxidant status of kidney tissue for nephrotoxic effect. Material and method: The study included 32 Sprague-Dawley type rats. The experimental animals were randomized into four groups with equal numbers each containing 8 rats as follows; Sham Group 1, Control Group 2, Sugammadex Group 3, Rocuronium plus sugammadex Group 4. Kidneys were excised after practise. Kidney tissue histopathological evaluation and antioxidant status (measurements of MDA and GSH levels) were investigated. Results: In group 4 led to a insignificant decrease in GSH levels compared to other groups. MDA for Group 4 showed a statistically significant difference compared to all other groups. Histopathological evaluation in group 4, an increase in vascular congestion was detected and degeneration was observed in dilated tubules and tubule epithelium. In addition, dilatation was observed in the glomerular capillaries and the veins in the medulla region. Conclusion: According to our findings, Rocuronium plus sugammadex in the dose ranges used in the studies, caused histopathological degeneration in the kidneys.
Development of a computer-based communication tool for voiceless patients: AyMeSES
Authors: Yavuz Melek Ertürk , Gürsoy Ayla
Published: February 2023

Mechanically ventilated patients struggle to communicate their demands to caregivers and nurses because of sound production issues. If the communication problem is ignored, it leads to distress, frustration, and rage. This problem poses a challenge not only for patients but also for healthcare team members. Communication difficulties increase the possibility of not applying the proper treatment, neglect of treatment and care and medical error. All these threaten patient safety and reduce the quality of treatment and care, further increasing the need for additional tools for effective communication between patients and caregivers. Mainly, touch-screen electronic communication tools can be used to communicate with patients. In this article, we describe the designing, development and evaluation of a computer-based software (AyMeSES) that enables voiceless patients to communicate with their caregivers.
Awake brain surgery in epilepsy: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Nieto Rizo MD Javier Bryan , Guerrero Ortiz Oscar Daniel , Gutiérrez Daniela Della Valle
Published: February 2023

Awake craniotomy is a frequent procedure in the practice of neurosurgery. In functional neurosurgery, this anesthetic technique has been described for Deep-Brain- Stimulators (DBS) placement in Parkinson’s disease and for tumor resection in eloquent areas. We describe a case of transoperative identification of epileptogenic foci with successful real-time resection. A 26-year-old patient who presented to our emergency room with seizures of difficult control despite a three-drug scheme. Brain image was performed that showed evidence of a left temporal lobe glioma. Due to the eloquent situation of the tumor, a resection under Awake-Sleep-Awake (AAA) technique was performed. Conclusion: Awake craniotomy is a very well stablished neurological procedure that has been increasing in frequency and indications. Profound knowledge of the perioperative and anesthetic management is key for the anesthesiologist to successfully perform the intricate procedure of managing the sleep and awake periods, as well as all its potential complications. Awake craniotomy allows for a very precise resection, having a positive impact in the short- and long-term quality of life of these patients.
A comparison of the behavioral effects of ketamine and propofol sedation in the pediatric endoscopy unit
Authors: Çakirca Müge , Tanil Kurt Devrim
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Hospitalization and anesthesia can have a harmful psychological impact on children, leading to behavioral abnormalities. Using the Post Hospitalization Behavior Questionnaire for Ambulatory Surgery (PHBQ-AS) version of the Post Hospitalization Behavior Questionnaire for daycase patients, the objective of this study is to assess the differences between ketamine and propofol and propofol alone use following anesthesia. Materials and methods: After receiving approval from the ethics committee, 84 children ages 2 to 18 who would undergo sedation surgery at the pediatric endoscopy-colonoscopy unit at Ankara City Hospital were enrolled in the study. Group K consisted of 27 patients sedated with ketamine and propofol, while group P consisted of 57 children sedated with propofol. To detect postoperative behavioral alterations in these youngsters, a questionnaire (POBQ-AS) was administered soon prior to the procedure and on the third day following it. Results: Pre-procedural Behavior Assessment Questionnaire Total scores were comparable for both groups. The measures on the third day following the surgery were also comparable. The Post-procedure Behavior Evaluation Questionnaire Total Score increased significantly (p 0.05) in both groups compared to the pre-procedure score. In Group K, the answers to the questions "Is he disconnected to his environment?" and "Does he become depressed when left alone?" increased significantly more than in the other group (p 0.05). Conclusion: Pediatric perioperative behavioral problem may be common. On the third postoperative day, sedative applications involving ketamine and propofol induce detrimental behavioral alterations, according to this study. In our patient group selected from the endoscopy unit to exclude factors such as mask induction, muscle relaxants, inhalation anesthetics, and surgical incision pain, we believe that only the negative behavioral changes of the intravenous anesthetics ketamine and propofol, as well as factors such as inflammation, surgical stress, and neurotoxicity, should be the focus of future research.
Environmental fungal spore aerosolization: a review
Authors: Singh Neha , Bhange Khushboo
Published: February 2023

Bioaerosol containing fungal spores became public health hazards. The aerosols contain the fungal spores of different species of Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Chaetomium, Penicillium, Wallemia, Stachybotrys etc. and caused various life-threatening respiratory diseases such as hypersensitivity, pneumonia, Aspergillosis, Candidiasis, Mucormycosis, Cancer, etc. They are easily transmitted from one individual to another. They also cause extreme damage to crops and create problems in food security by producing mycotoxins. The transmissions of fungal spores depend upon the environmental factor, seasonal variation, growth surface, type of fungal spore, etc. There are various biophysical, biochemical and molecular techniques that are present to detect fungal spores in aerosol. There are numerous physical and chemical agents that can kill fungi. Good public health and food security can be achieved through the detection and management of fungal spores in aerosols.
Public health impact of Aflatoxin
Authors: Abdeta Debela , Milki Samuel
Published: February 2023

Aflatoxin is a naturally occurring food contaminant. The aflatoxins produced by aflatoxic fungi include B1, B2, G1 and G2, as well as two extra metabolic products, M1 and M2, which are significant as food and feed contaminants. The presence of aflatoxins in foods is also affected by insect activity, poor timing of harvest, heavy rainfall at harvest and post-harvest and inadequate drying of the crop before storage, as well as humidity, temperature, and aeration in the drying and storage process. This study aims to review the potential effects of aflatoxin on public health. People can be exposed to aflatoxins directly through consumption of contaminated foods or indirectly through eating foods derived from animals previously exposed to aflatoxins in feed. A contaminated aerosol can be inhaled as another exposure route. It has been reported that aflatoxin affects multiple organs and systems in the body. For a compound to be toxic, it has to undergo bio activation, which is mainly performed in hepatocytes. Bio activation is required to be toxic and this processing predominantly occurs in hepatocytes. According to the type, period and amount of exposure, toxicological effects include immunosuppression, impaired growth, and various types of cancer. Symptoms and the history of the individual (eating contaminated foods) are the most reliable diagnostic aids for aflatoxicosis. There is no specific antidote for aflatoxins. In addition to pre- and postharvest contamination, aflatoxin control should extend to all stages of the value chain. Because of their high toxicity and carcinogenicity, aflatoxins are a significant problem and among all the mycotoxins that cause worldwide contamination of foods and feeds. It is crucial to create awareness about aflatoxin contamination, its effect and its management.