bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative evaluation of a ‘frugal’ solar-powered otoscope with a traditional device amongst health care workers in Malawi
Authors: Balfour Katharine , McCarthy Amy , Hey Shi , Kousha Obaid , Singano Emmanuel , Mulwafu Wakisa , Walker F David L , Blaikie Andrew
Published: January 2024

Abstract Objectives To comparatively evaluate a low cost ‘frugal’
otoscope in low resource settings with a traditional device amongst
health care workers in Malawi. Design A prospective, comparative,
qualitative observational survey of healthcare workers opinions using
5-point Likert rating scales and tick box categories. Setting and
Participants 25 mixed cadre health care workers from the Ear, Nose and
Throat department of the in Malawi were recruited. Main outcome measures
A 10-item survey questionnaire was used to compare the low cost ‘frugal’
otoscope with a traditional device. Outcomes measures used were ease of
speculum attachment, handling, insertion, stability, the quality of
view, colour, build, brightness, overall ease of use and their
suitability for local work. Results The low cost ‘frugal’ otoscope
scored statistically higher in overall combined performance, as well as
in the remaining 4 out of the 9 attributes. Notably, 54.2% of users
rated the low-cost device more suitable than the traditional device for
use in low-middle income countries, 25% were equivocal and 20.8%
preferred the traditional device. Conclusion This study deemed the
low-cost frugal Arclight otoscope appropriate as a practical substitute
for more expensive traditional otoscopes for the delivery of ENT
services in low resource settings.
Nitrate-inducible MdBT2 acts as a restriction factor to limit apple necrotic mosaic virus genome replication in Malus domestica
Authors: Zhang Zhenlu , Xie Yin-Huan , Sun Ping , Zhang Fu-Jun , Zheng Peng-Fei , You Chun-Xiang , Hao Yu-Jin
Published: January 2024

Apple necrotic mosiac virus (ApNMV) is a newly identified causal agent
that is highly associated with the occurrence of apple mosaic disease in
China. However, resistance gene against this virus has not been
identified yet. We reported here that nitrate treatment destablized
viral protein 1a via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathways to restrain ApNMV
genomic RNA accumulation. A nitrate-responsive BTB/TAZ domain-containing
protein MdBT2 was identified in a yeast-two-hybrid screening of apple
cDNA library using viral protein 1a as bait, and 1a was confirmed to
interact with MdBT2 both in vivo and in vitro. MdBT2 was further
verified to promote the ubiquitination and degradation of viral protein
1a through the proteasome pathways in a MdCUL3A-scaffold protein in E3
ligase complex-independent manner. Viral genomic RNA accumulation was
decreased in MdBT2 overexpression transgenic apple leaves but enhanced
in MdBT2 antisense leaves compared to that in wild type. Moreover, MdBT2
was found to interfere with the interactions between viral replication
proteins 1a and 2apol by competing with the latter. Taken together, our
work demonstrated that nitrate-inducible MdBT2 functioned as a limiting
factor in ApNMV viral RNA accumulation by promoting the ubiquitination
and degradation of viral protein 1a and interfering with the
interactions between viral replication proteins.
Halo-tolerant and thermostable mechanisms of an endoglucanase from marine Aspergillus niger
Authors: Cai Li-Nian , Lu Tao , Lin Dong-Qiang , Yao Shanjing
Published: January 2024

The cellulase cocktail of marine Aspergillus niger exhibited
halo-tolerant and thermostable properties, which is of great potential
in industrial application. In order to excavate single tolerant
cellulase components from the complex cellulase cocktail, constitutive
homologous expression was employed for direct obtainment of the
endoglucanase (AnEGL). The constitutive expression system seems
as “separation factor” to be implanted into cell for conveniently
obtaining a single target enzyme. Enzymatic property study revealed that
AnEGL exhibited a property of halo-tolerance and an outstanding
thermostability in high salt environment. Significantly, its activity
increased by 29% and the half-life at 65 °C increased by 26.7-fold with
the presence of 4.5 M NaCl. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation revealed
that Na and Cl could form salt
bridges with charged residues, and then influenced the activity of loops
and the stability of substrate binding pocket, which accounted for the
halo-tolerance and thermostability. Further, site-specific mutagenesis
study proved that the residues Asp95 and Asp99 in the pocket were of
great concern for the halo-tolerance and thermostability. The
halo-tolerant and thermostable AnEGL was of great value in
lignocellulosic utilization and the conjectural mechanisms were of
referential significance for other tolerant enzymes.
Distinctive Characteristics of His Bundle Potentials in Patients with Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia
Authors: Guan Fu , Saguner Ardan , Hofer Daniel , Wolber Thomas , Breitenstein Alexander , Steffel Jan , Brunckhorst Corinna , Duru Firat
Published: January 2024

Background: We aim to determine the characteristics of the HB potentials
in atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT), and elucidate
whether these can provide clues for identification of patients with slow
pathway (SP). Methods：We studied the electrophysiological findings of
162 consecutive patients with symptomatic AVNRT due to slow-fast or
fast-slow type reentry (n=112) and AV reentrant tachycardia (AVRT)
(n=50). Maximal HB potential (taken as HBmax, which was highest in
amplitude) among HB cloud was recorded for comparison. For AVNRT
patients: (1)The AH interval (A2H2) at the “jump” during programmed
atrial stimulation (taken as a reflection of slow-pathway conduction
time); (2)The distance from HBmax to the successful SP ablation site
(HBmax-ABL) and from HBmax to the ostium of coronary sinus (HBmax-CSO).
Results: HBmax was 0.29±0.10mV in AVNRT patients, whereas it was
0.17±0.05 mV in AVRT group (p<0.0001). Likewise, the HBmax
duration was 22±5 ms in the AVNRT group and 16±3 ms in the AVRT
group(p<0.0001). The area under the ROC curve of HBmax
amplitude in AVNRT patients was 0.86 and the optimal HBmax cut-off to
predict AVNRT was≥0.22 mV with a sensitivity of 0.78 and specificity of
0.84. HBmax-CSO was positively correlated with HBmax-ABL, and HBmax-ABL
was positively correlated with A2H2. Conclusions: HBmax amplitudes were
higher and durations longer in patients with AVNRT, as compared to those
with AVRT. Moreover, the distance between HBmax and successful ablation
site was positively correlated with the SP conduction time and with the
distance from HBmax to the CS ostium.
ENT1 inhibition rescues energy dysfunction and pathology in a model of tauopathy
Authors: Chang Ching-Pang , Chang Ya-Gin , Chuang Pei-Yun , Nguyen Anh , Wu Kuo-Chen , Chou Fang-Yi , Cheng Sin-Jhong , Chen Hui-Mei , Jin Lee-Way , Carvalho Kevin , Huin Vincent , Buee Luc , Liao Yung-Feng , LIN CHUN-JUNG , Blum David , Chern Yijuang
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: Tau pathology is instrumental in the gradual
loss of neuronal functions and cognitive decline in tauopathies,
including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Adenosine homeostasis is essential
to brain metabolism and plasticity but the link to Tau remained
ill-defined. Herein, we aimed at investigating whether modulating
adenosine tone, through pharmacological manipulation of equilibrative
nucleoside transporter 1 (ENT1), impacts Tau pathology, associated
molecular alterations, and subsequent neurodegeneration. Experimental
Approach: Thy-Tau22 and their littermate controls were continuously
treated with J4, an ENT1 inhibitor, in drinking water. The animal
behavior and electrophysiological recording were employed to evaluate
the memory function and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus. We have
then conducted phospho-proteomics, immunohistological investigations,
and bulk RNA-seq analysis to evaluate the mode of action of J4. Key
Results: We demonstrated that treatment with J4 not only reduced Tau
hyperphosphorylation and improved memory deficits and synaptic
plasticity but also normalized mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic loss,
and abnormal expression of immune-related gene signatures in the
Thy-Tau22 mice. These beneficial effects were particularly ascribed to
the ability of J4 to suppress the overactivation of AMPK, suggesting
that normalization of energy dysfunction mitigates neuronal dysfunctions
in Tauopathy. Mechanisms targeted by J4 such as AMPK overactivation and
neurotoxic astrocyte phenotype were found in brains from patients with
primary tauopathies and AD. Conclusion and Implications: The present
data, therefore, support an instrumental link between energy dysfunction
and adenosine homeostasis in tauopathy. Together, our data support that
targeting adenosine metabolism is a novel reliable strategy for
tauopathies.
How experience influences in External Cephalic Version Success: Longitudinal study
Authors: Romero Javier Sánchez , Araico-Rodríguez Fernando , Herrera-Giménez Javier , Blanco-Carnero José , Gallego-Pozuelo Rosa , Nieto-Díaz Anibal , Sanchez-Ferrer Maria lUISA
Published: January 2024

Objective: The main objective is to compare ECV results when the
procedure is performed by an experienced dedicated team or by seniors
obstetricians. Design: Prospective longitudinal study. Setting:
Prospective analysis of ECV performed in ‘Virgen de la Arrixaca’
University Hospital between 10/1st/2018 and 12/31st/ 2019. Population or
Sample: All the patients who undergo ECV in this hospital. Methods: From
10/1st/2018 to 09/31st/2019, ECV were performed by two senior
experienced obstetricians who composed the dedicated team for ECV,
designed as Group A. From 10/1st/ 2019 to 12/31st/ 2019, ECV was
performed by two seniors obstetricians, designed as Group B. Ritodrine
was administered during 30 minutes just before the procedure. Propofol
was used for sedation. Main Outcome Measures: ECV Success rate,
complications rate, and Vaginal delivery rate after ECV. Results: 122
pregnant women underwent an ECV attempt. 90 (73.8%) were performed by
Group A and 32 (26.2%) were carried out by Group B. The ECV success
rate increased from 56.3% (B) to 67.8% (A) (P=0.241). The greatest
increase in the success rate was seen in nulliparous (from 39.1% to
63.5%, P=0.043). Amniotic fluid pocket (OR=1.32; P=0.035) was
associated with ECV success. The complications rate decreased from
18.8% (B) to 6.7% (A) (P=0.049). Conclusions: The introduction of an
experienced dedicated team reduces ECV complications rate and, in
nulliparous it improves the ECV success rate. Multiparity and normal or
high amniotic fluid volume increase in the ECV success rate. Funding:
The authors received no funding for this work. Keywords: External
Cephalic Version, Super-specialization, Breech
Normal family of meromorphic functions concerning differential polynomials
Authors: XIONG SUN
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we study the normality of families of meromorphic
functions concerning shared functions. Some example show that the
condition in our result is best possible.
Poly-γ-glutamic acid enhanced drought resistance of maize by improving photosynthesis and effecting rhizosphere microbial communities
Authors: Haizhen Ma , Can Li , Shengkui Zhang , Xingwang Liu , Xiaohan Wang , Tao Xia
Published: January 2024

Compared with other abiotic stresses, drought stress is a serious causal
factor leading to crop yield reduction. Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA)，as
an environmental friendly biomacromolecule, plays an important role in
plant growth and regulation. In this project, we studied the effect of
exogenous application of γ-PGA on drought resistance of maize (Zea mays.
L) and its mechanism were studied. Drought can significantly inhibit the
growth and development of maize, but the exogenous application of γ-PGA
can apparently increase the dry weight of maize and the contents of ABA,
soluble sugar, proline, and chlorophyll under severe drought stress.
RNAseq study found that γ-PGA may enhance drought resistance of maize by
affecting the expression of the ABA biosynthesis and ABA signal
transduction related genes, photosynthesis-related genes and other
stress-responsive genes, which were also demonstrated by RT-PCR and
promoter motif analysis. The results of diversity and structure analysis
of rhizosphere soil bacterial community showed that γ-PGA could enrich
the plant growth promoting bacteria such as Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi,
Firmicutes, Alphaproteobacteria and Deltaproteobacteria, so as to
improve the drought resistance of maize. This study emphasized the
possibility of using γ-PGA to improve crop drought resistance and soil
environment under drought condition.
Social support in women with potential Essure-related complaints: an analysis of Facebook group content
Authors: Gastel Daniëlle van , Antheunis Marjolein , Tenfelde Kim , Nieboer Theodoor , Bongers Marlies
Published: January 2024

Objective: To evaluate the use of social support in a Facebook community
of Essure® Problems Netherlands. Design: All post in the Facebook group
between March 8 and May 8 of 2018 were included. Setting: A closed
online Facebook group named: Essure Problems Netherlands. Population:
All members of the Facebook community. Methods: In total 3,491 Facebook
posts were analysed using a modified version on the social support
behaviour code created by Cutrona and Suhr (1992). Main Outcome
Measures: Posts were abstracted and aggregated into a database. Two
investigators evaluated the posts, developed a modified version on the
social support behaviour code book, and applied codes to data. Results:
Results show that 92% messages contained a form of social support. In
68,8% of posting social support was given and in 31,2% social support
was received. Informational and emotional support are the most
frequently used form of given social support (53.4 and 43.6%,
respectively). The same distribution is seen with receiving social
support: informational support in 81,5% and emotional in 17,4% of the
cases. Conclusions: The main purpose of women in the Essure® problems
group was to give and receive informational and/or emotional support.
Cordyceps caterpillar polysaccharide CCP activates innate immune responses via the TLR4/MyD88/p38 signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Quanwei , Liu Man , Li Lifeng , Chen Miaomiao , Bao Wanrong , Zheng Hongming , Wen Xin , Cheng Huiyuan , Fung Hauyee , Wong Tinloon , Zhao Zhongzhen , Lu Aiping , Han QB , Sun HD
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose Cordyceps is a widely used traditional Chinese
medicine due to its many health benefits, such as immune regulation. As
Cordyceps’ major component, polysaccharides are of great attention
serving as a potential drug or vaccine with nontoxicity. However, little
is known about the underlying immunomodulatory mechanism of Cordyceps
caterpillar polysaccharide (CCP). In this present study, we investigated
the immunomodulatory effects of CCP on macrophages in vitro and in vivo
and its underlying mechanism. Experimental Approach Macrophage cell line
RAW 264.7 cells, bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs), wild-type, and
gene-deficient (TLR2-/- and TLR4-/-) mice were used in the study. Using
a series of molecular biology methods, we identified the direct target
of CCP on macrophage and the downstream signaling pathways. Besides,
using in vivo animal studies, we examined and confirmed the effects of
CCP on macrophages. Key results CCP could trigger TNF-α and IL-6
production of macrophages by targeting toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). The
CCP-induced TLR4-downstream is the MyD88/p38 signaling pathway. The
immune-regulation of CCP on macrophages was not detected in
TLR4-deficient mice. Conclusion and Implications The TLR4/MyD88/p38
signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the immune regulation of
Cordyceps on the innate immune, which offers a better understanding of
polysaccharide-based dietary and medicinal benefits and provides a
scientific foundation for Cordyceps’ application.
NEUROBLASTOMA IN A 10-MONTH INFANT WITH MISDIAGNOSIS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Nguyen Sang Ngoc , Vu Lam , Nguyen Rang
Published: January 2024

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor in children. A
10-month-old boy was presented with neuroblastoma misdiagnosis of family
violence bruised and swollen right periorbital region with no obvious
proptosis or abnormal eye movements. Neuroblastoma was confirmed with
histopathology and bone marrow. After treatment, the symptoms were
resolved.
Restrictive cardiomyopathy with Isolated Cardiac Amyloidosis: a rarecase report
Authors: Li ShuJuan , Duan ShaSha , Ban Chao , Xiao WuPing , Shuang Lian , Ning YuZhen , Yun GuoQing , Niu JunYi , Chen FengYing
Published: January 2024

Restrictive cardiomyopathy is rare and usually associated with
myocardium amyloidosis, which often involves multiple organs. Here, we
describe a rare case of restrictive cardiomyopathy with myocardium
amyloidosis. The diagnosis was established using electrocardiogram,
transthoracic echocardiography, and confirmed using cardiac magnetic
resonance imaging. Nevertheless, no evidence of involvement of the other
organs was observed.
Characteristics of Drugs Approved in Japan without Conducting Confirmatory Clinical Trials
Authors: Izuka Shunsuke , Matsumaru Naoki , Tsukamoto Katsura
Published: January 2024

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of
drugs for which the requirement of confirmatory clinical trials for
approval was waived in Japan. We also aimed to identify factors and
formulae to predict the waiver of confirmatory clinical trials. Methods:
Data on approved drugs and their characteristics were mainly extracted
from the Japan Pharmaceuticals and Medical Device Agency database. The
seriousness of the disease, existence of available treatments, and
number of patients were considered as candidate factors. The influence
of each factor on receiving a waiver was determined using logistic
regression analysis comparing drugs approved with and without
confirmatory clinical trials as the binary response variable. The
predictive formula was derived from the results of the logistic
regression analysis. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used
to evaluate the accuracy of the prediction. Results: The drugs
categorised as anti-neoplastic agents, use of the cost accounting method
in the drug pricing system, ‘orphan’ designation, and Accelerated
Approval designation in the United States emerged as significant factors
in the logistic regression analysis, predicting a waiver for
confirmatory clinical trials (P < 0.001). These factors were
then used to establish a predictive model to ascertain whether
confirmatory clinical trials would be necessary for a new drug,
exhibiting good sensitivity (0.754) and specificity (0.785), and high
accuracy for newly approved drugs. Conclusion: The identification of key
factors that can predict waivers of confirmatory clinical trials may
accelerate the development of clinically important drugs and improve
patient access globally.
Premature declination of ovarian reserve and increased incidence of abnormal histologic findings in ovaries from Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome patients
Authors: LIANG Ze , DUAN Jia-Li , ZHANG Duo-Duo , Zhu Lan , YOU Yan
Published: January 2024

Objective: To describe the gross and histological characters of MRKHS
patients’ ovaries and assess their ovarian reserve directly for future
pregnancy. Design: A prospective case-control study. Setting and
population: A prospective case-control study involving 67 MRKH syndrome
patients and 17 ovarian biopsies (with age-matched controls), from
January 2017 to February 2020. Methods: We observed the gross appearance
of 67 Chinese MRKHS patients during laparoscopically assisted neovagina
creation surgery. Seventeen ovarian biopsies were obtained and compared
with age-matched controls for the histological characters. Twelve biopsy
specimens underwent a complete serial section and calculation of the
primordial follicular density. Main Outcome Measures: Follicle density,
morphology in ovarian cortex biopsies. Results: 5/67 MRKHS patients’
ovaries had abnormal gross appearance, including streak gonads and
bilateral porcelain white ovaries. We observed corpus luteum or corpus
albicans on 5/8 patients under 20 years old, but none of the controls.
None of the biopsies from MRKHS type Ⅱ patients showed corpus luteum or
corpus albicans. Two type Ⅰ patients presented with compromised ovarian
reserve, and significant increase of atretic follicles and corpus
albicans. A significant inverse correlation was observed between
primordial follicular density and age in 12 patients aged 16 to 25 years
old. Conclusion: The ovaries of MRKHS patients have higher rates of
abnormalities regarding gross appearance and histological characters.
Tweetable abstract: It is suggested that early preparation for fertility
reserve and incorporated as a part of the treatment when reconstructing
the neovagina in MRKH syndrome patients due to premature declination of
the ovarian reserve.
Theoretical design of Lindquist-type polyoxometalate-porphyrin hybrids for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Zhang Ting , Wei Xuehong , Zuo Ying , Zhang Junjie , Cao Wei , Ma Tengying
Published: January 2024

A series of Lindquist-type polyoxometalate (POM)-porphyrin hybrids were
designed to study the effect of POMs on the performance of dyes. The
electronic transition properties, absorption spectra, and photovoltaic
performance of these hybrids for n-type DSSCs were studied. The
absorption spectra of dyes 2-5 exhibit broader and larger absorptions
than synthesized dye 1. Further analysis of electronic transition
properties indicates that the introduction of POM makes the charge
transfer process longer and stronger. Moreover, the photovoltaic
performances of these designed dyes are suitable for efficiency n-type
DSSCs. These designed dyes can be used as shortlist dyes for n-type
DSSCs.
Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine and its determinants: Evidence from a large population-based study in Bangladesh
Authors: Haque Miah Md. Akiful , Rahman Mohammad Lutfor , Hossian Mosharop , Matin Kazi Farhana , Islam Md. Mynul , Nabi Mohammad Hayatun , Saha Shuvajit , Hasan Mehedi , Manna Ridwana Maher , Barsha Sabrina Yesmin , Hasan S. M. Rezwanul , Siddiqua Saleka Raihana , Rahman Mahfil Ara , Khan Md Abdullah Saeed , Rashid Md Utba , Hossain Mohammad Ali , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: January 2024

Introduction On the verge of vaccination, the most pressing issue seems
to be vaccine hesitancy. In this era of communication, Bangladeshi
people may have pre-determined concerns about receiving the vaccines.
Accordingly, our study attempted to understand belief, attitude, and
intention to take the COVID-19 vaccine among the country’s adult
population. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in all
eight divisions of Bangladesh. Seven thousand three hundred fifty-seven
data were collected from the adult population between January 17 and
February 2, 2021, by structured questionnaires. Statistical software
STATA (Version 16.1) and R (Version 4.0) programming language were used
for all analyses. Results Although most of the study participants were
from Dhaka division (n=2,519, 34.24%), a minimum involvement of 500
participants was ensured from each division during this study. The most
common age group was ≤30 years (n=3,394, 46.18%). Almost two thirds of
respondents were male (n=4,819, 65.50%) and married (n= 4,985,
67.76%). A large portion (79.85%) of people who had positive vaccine
intentions believed that vaccination should be made mandatory for
everyone. The majority of the respondents believed that the vaccine
would work against COVID-19 infection (n=4,954, 67%). PCA and FA
analyzed the association of vaccine acceptance and various
socio-demographic factors. Conclusion Our study evaluated the belief,
attitude, and intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in Bangladesh
and found some strong discussion points. The results of this study can
boost vaccination programs by providing essential insights.
Diagnosis, management and risk factors of intramural ectopic pregnancy: A case report and a case-control study
Authors: Li Jiawei , Ji Min , Gao Tong , Sun Mingming , Li Jun , Jiang Wei
Published: January 2024

Background Intramural ectopic pregnancy（IMP）is an uncommon type of
ectopic pregnancy and can be life-threatening if misdiagnosed. Thus,
early diagnosis and management are required. However, due to its rarity,
there was no suggested algorithm for this rare disorder. Methods We
conducted a case-control study and discuss multiple treatments and risk
factors of IMP. Chi-square test, contingency table methods and logistic
regression analysis were used to evaluate. Results Only 2.4% of
patients have a low level of serum human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)
(less than 10mIU/ml). 184(73.02%) of patients have been misdiagnosed.
The rate of accurate initial diagnosis may be increased using Magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI). The majority of patients underwent surgery
(89.68%). Approximately one-tenth of patients can be successfully
treated by pharmacotherapy. The history of dilatation and curettage (OR
= 4.42 95% CI 2.97-6.59, P＜0.001), history of tubal surgery (OR = 4.17
95% CI 2.27-7.68 P< 0.001), cesarean section (OR = 5.66 95%
CI 1.99-16.05 P=0.001) and intrauterine devices (IUD)(OR = 6.04 95% CI
2.46-14.80 P< 0.001) were significant risk factors for IMP.
Conclusion Patients at gestation age should be evaluated thoroughly even
with the normal HCG level, to avoid a delayed diagnosis of
pregnancy-related disorders like IMP. Diagnosis may be increased using
MRI and Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). After a thorough
evaluation, drug therapy can be a treatment choice; however,
conservative surgery appears safer and more effective. Risk factors
should be comprehensively considered to help to reduce the incidence of
IMP and to increase diagnosis rate.
The failure probability of reinforced concrete structures based on symptom and cost optimization of maintenance using NSGA-II
Authors: Sayehbani Mesbah , esfandiari Akbar , Ghasri Afshin , Mohammadrahimi Abdolhossein
Published: January 2024

Due to the increased life of marine structures in the world, repair and
maintenance of low cost and high reliability are of concern in this
industry. In this paper, the corrosion-induced crack width of reinforced
concrete (RC) structure in the marine environment is estimated according
to the experimental data, laboratory results, and numerical formulas.
Symptom-based Weibull function distribution and Bayesian theory have
been used to predict the structural reliability in different modes
(without repair and maintenance, with maintenance, and with repair and
maintenance). Bi-objective optimization was utilized to provide the
client with optimal decisions regarding the probability of structural
failure as well as the type of repair and maintenance strategies. The
results showed the effectiveness of the proposed method in predicting
performance, improving life service, and optimizing repair and
maintenance costs of the marine structure.
On the importance of being heterozygote Effects of Rh-genotype on the physical and mental health of a non-clinical population
Authors: Flegr Jaroslav , Příplatová Lenka , Hlaváčová Jana , Šebánková Blanka , Žďárský Emanuel , Kaňková Šárka
Published: January 2024

Human populations, especially European, are polymorphic in the RHD gene.
A significant fraction of their members carries two copies of a mutated
(deleted) allele, which results in their Rh-negative blood type.
Theoretically, this polymorphism should be unstable. Carriers of the
less frequent allele are penalized by reduced fertility because of the
immunization of Rh-negative mothers by their Rh-positive babies, which
results in hemolytic disease of newborns in their subsequent progeny.
For about 90 years, some form of balancing selection has been suspected
to sustain this polymorphism. Several recent studies showed that the
Rh-positive heterozygotes express higher viability than both types of
homozygotes. However, the genotype of subjects in these studies was
estimated only by indirect methods. Here we compared the physical and
mental health of 178 women and 86 men who were directly tested for their
Rh genotype. The results showed that Rh-positive homozygotic women had
worse and Rh-positive homozygotic men better physical health than
Rh-negative homozygotes; the difference between Rh-negative homozygotes
and heterozygotes was not significant. Our results confirmed that health
of Rh-positive heterozygotes and homozygotes differ. Therefore, any
result of the comparison of subjects with Rh-positive and Rh-negative
phenotype depends on the heterozygote-to-homozygote ratio in the
Rh-positive sample. It is, therefore, crucial to analyze the effects of
Rh-genotypes, not phenotypes in future studies.
A Rare Case of Postcardiac Injury Syndrome Caused by Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation: Severe Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension with Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation
Authors: Shi Jia , Zhou Xianhui , Lu Yan-mei , Tang Baopeng
Published: January 2024

Postcardiac injury syndrome (PCIS) is commonly seen complication caused
by radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of persistent atrial
fibrillation (persAF). We describe a rare case of PCIS with severe
pulmonary hypertension (PAH) accompanied by severe tricuspid
regurgitation (TR) following RFCA for persAF.
Stability analysis of second order fully discrete scheme for magneto-thermal coupling system
Authors: Long Xiaonian , Ding Qianqian
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we consider the nonstationary magnetohydrodynamic coupled
heat equation through the well-known Boussinesq approximation. The
second order backward difference formula is used for time derivative
terms, and the mixed finite method is used for spatial discretization,
we employ the Taylor-Hood elements to approximate heat and Navier-Stokes
equations,
N$\mathrm{\acute{e}}$d$\mathrm{\acute{e}}$lec
edge elements are used to approximate the magnetic induction. The
divergence free conditions are weakly satisfied at the discrete level.
Due to the use of
N$\mathrm{\acute{e}}$d$\mathrm{\acute{e}}$lec
edge element, the proposed method is particularly suitable for problems
defined on non-smooth and multi-connected domains. Moreover, the
numerical scheme is energy conserving. Under the weak regularity
hypothesis of the exact solution, we present error estimate for
velocity, magnetic variable and temperature. Finally, the convergence
analysis is verified by some experiments, and the magnetic fluid
phenomenon is simulated by driven cavity flow.
CDKN1B Mutation Analyses and Biochemical Characteristics in Patients with Symptomatic or asymptomatic Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Prospective Single-Centre Study
Authors: Akkuş Gamze , sengoz sinem , karagün barıs , evran mehtap , Sert Murat , Tetiker Tamer
Published: January 2024

Background: The clinical phenotype of PHPT changed from overt bone and
renal involvement to asymptomatic hypercalcaemia. Patients with
symptomatic hyperparathyroidism should be referred for surgery, and
asymptomatic patients’ management have still a clinical bias. Clinical
variability can be linked to specific mutated gene including CDKN1B.
Material-Methods: In this prospective study 80 patients (66 women and 14
men, mean age 50.8 ± 12.01 years) with PHPT were enrolled between 2018
and 2020. Biochemical and clinical information were collected on
patients’ sex, age, biochemical examination and radiological findings
(nuclear 99 mTc sestamibi scans scintigraphy, cervical ultrasound).
CDKN1B sequencing, and DNA isolation was performed by using GeneMATRIX
Quick Blood DNA Purification Kit. Selected primer of CDKN1BF
(rs786201010, c.-456_-453delCCTT) (CAGGTTTGTTGGCAGCAGTA) and CDKN1BR
(rs786201010, c.-456_-453delCCTT) (GGAGCCAAAAGACACAGACC) were amplified
by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (Solis Biodyne, Estonia). Results: 22
of all patients were also symptomatic. Serum calcium and 24-hour calcium
excretion were significantly increased in patients with symptomatic PHTP
(p = 0.009, p = 0.00). Serum PTH levels were similar between the two
group (p = 0.667). With regards to classical manifestations of PHPT,
bone diseases (p = 0.04) and nephrolithiasis (p = 0.03) were more common
in patients with symptomatic PHPT. CC genotype was detected in all
patients with PHPT in rs786201010. c.-456_-453delCCTT was not detected
in any patients. Conclusion: We emphasized that patients with
symptomatic PHPT had more increased serum calcium levels and calciuria.
Independent of PTH levels, clinical signs and symptoms could be related
with serum calcium parameters in these patients.
Identification of a novel ANK1 c.856C>T nonsense mutation in two patients from a Chinese family with hereditary spherocytosis by NGS
Authors: Yang Jie , Yang Chun-xue , Wu Yuan-yuan , He Deng , Li Yu-qi , Feng Ling , Wang Shao-shuai , Rong zhi-hui , Liu Hai-Yi
Published: January 2024

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is a common inherited heterogeneous
hemolytic anemia that is characterized by the presence of spheroidal
erythrocytes on the peripheral blood smear. Mutations in ankyrin gene
(ANK1) is the most common cause of HS in Northern European populations
and Chinese patients but is seen in only 5–10% of Japanese patients.
The majority of them are familial mutations inherited in an autosomal
dominant form. In this study, a heterozygous ANK1 c.856C>T
mutation was identified in a 2-hour-old newborn with severe jaundice
using targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) and Sanger sequencing,
and was confirmed to be inherited from his mother.
Stable and high incidence of asthma among adults in northern Sweden during the last decades.
Authors: Räisänen Petri , Backman Helena , Hedman Linnea , Andersson Martin , Stridsman Caroline , Kankaanranta Hannu , Ilmarinen Pinja , Andersen Heidi , Piirilä Päivi , Lindberg Anne , Lundbäck Bo , Rönmark Eva
Published: January 2024

Background: The prevalence of asthma has increased both among children
and adults during the latter half of the 20th century. The prevalence
among adults is affected by the incidence of asthma in childhood but
also in adulthood. Time trends in asthma incidence are poorly studied.
The aim was to study the incidence of asthma among adults from 1996-2006
and 2006-2016, and compare the risk factor patterns. Methods: Within the
Obstructive Lung Disease in Northern Sweden (OLIN) studies, two randomly
selected population-based samples in ages 20-69 years participated in
postal questionnaire surveys about asthma in 1996 (n=7104, 85%) and
2006 (n=6165, 77%), respectively. A 10-year follow-up of the two
cohorts with the same validated questionnaire was performed, and n=5709
and n=4552, respectively, responded. Different definitions of population
at risk were used in the calculations of asthma incidence. The protocol
followed a study performed 1986 to 1996 in the same area. Results: The
crude incidence rate of physician-diagnosed asthma was 4.4/1000/year
(men 3.8, women 5.5) from 1996-2006, and 4.8/1000/year (men 3.7, women
6.2) from 2006-2016. When correcting for possible under-diagnosis at
study entry, the incidence rate was 2.4/1000/year from 1996-2006 and
2.6/1000/year from 2006-2016. The incidence rates were similar across
age groups. Allergic rhino-conjunctivitis was the main risk factor for
incident asthma in both observation periods (risk ratios 2.4-2.6).
Conclusions: The incidence of asthma among adults has been stable over
the last two decades, and on similar level since the 1980s. The high
incidence contributes to the increase in asthma prevalence.
Oxcarbazepine induced Stevens-Johnson syndrome and Toxic epidermal necrolysis overlap- A case report
Authors: Godi Sangha Mitra , Nandan Neetu
Published: January 2024

Drug induced skin reactions although common with older epileptic drugs
like phenytoin, lamotrigine, carbamazepine, the newer antiepileptic
drugs are less likely to cause. Oxcarbazepine, the succeeder of
carbamazepine has better safety profile with respect side-effects and
adverse drug reactions. The Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, an adverse drug
reaction is found to be less common and there were few case reports in
literature with oxcarbazepine. Here we are reporting a case of
oxcarbazepine induced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal
Necrolysis (SJS/TEN) Overlap in line with CARE guidelines.
Risk of self-injury by patients using video otoendoscopes aimed at home market
Authors: Jamil Waqas , Simmons Mark
Published: January 2024

Sir, We have recently become aware of new small (2.2mm to 5.5mm) ear wax
removal endoscopes (similar to otoendoscopes) aimed at the home market
(See Figure 1). These are powered by USB attachments and can be viewed
on mobile phones or home PCs. They are targeted at the home market for
examination of ears, nose, and mouths and even some sellers advocate
using their use on pets too. They often come with attachments to allow
ear cleaning of wax and removal of foreign bodies etc. These are
available on various online seller websites and can cost as little as
£11. These have been available for purchase for a few years, but we were
not aware of them until we started having some patients attend our
emergency ENT clinic recently having damaged their ear canals with them
during use. In one case, a child presented with extensive
abrasions/laceration of the ear canal after her mother attempted to
clean wax from the child’s ears. Similarly, looking at the customer
reviews on these online seller websites, other buyers have reported harm
using these devices i.e. bleeding from the ear, pushing ear wax further
in the ear canal and resulting in hearing loss 1,2. Having purchased one
of these items for home research, we found the otoendoscope unwieldy and
it was difficult to gain a good image. Also with mono-ocular vision,
there is no depth perception, consequently this may increase the risk of
self-injury for new/untrained users. Whilst such devices may well be
helpful in the current COVID crisis and could be used for telemedicine
to help with distant patient examination during lockdowns 3,4, we would
like to highlight the potential dangers of the use of these items by the
public.
Psychometrics of the Persian Version of the Justice Perception of Performance Appraisal
Authors: sarkhani naeimeh , Nikpeyma Nasrin , Abed-Saeedi Zhila , Azargashb Eznollah , Alavi-Majd Hamid
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Measuring the nurses’ perception of justice in the
performance appraisal system is important in achieving effective
performance appraisal results. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate
the psychometrics of the Persian version of the Justice Perception of
Performance Appraisal (JPPA) instrument. Methods: In this methodological
study, 301 clinical nurses working in the hospitals affiliated to Shahid
Beheshti University of Medical Sciences were selected based on purposive
sampling. The translation and validation of the justice perception of
the performance appraisal framework were sought according to the
instructions proposed by the University of Incarnate Word in the United
States. The psychometric characteristics of the instrument including
construct validity (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis) and
reliability were evaluated using internal consistency based on
Cronbach’s alpha index and intra-class correlation (ICC). In the present
study, SPSS version 17 and LISREL software version 8.8 were used for
confirmatory factor analysis. Results: The results of the exploratory
factor analysis indicated the establishment of these four factors:
procedural justice, distributive justice, interpersonal justice and
informational justice which covered 57.71% of the total variance. The
results of the confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the
appropriateness of the four-factor construct of the justice perception
of performance appraisal (p = 0.000, X2 = 4184.26, df = 1478, GFI = 0.67
& AGFI = 0.64, RMR = 0.11, SRMR = 0.078, & RMSEA = 0.078, NFI = 0.95
& NNFI = 0.97, and CFI = 0.97). The internal consistency of the
instrument was also confirmed according to the Cronbach’s alpha index of
0.97 and the intra-class correlation index of 0.95. Conclusion: The
Persian version of the Justice Perception of Performance Appraisal can
be used as a valid and reliable instrument to measure the level of
nurses’ perception of justice in the performance appraisal
EndMT： New findings on the mechanism underlying fibrosis of intrauterine adhesions
Authors: Xu Chengcheng , Bao Meng , Fan Xiaorong , Huang Jin , Zhu Changhong , Xia Wei
Published: January 2024

Objective To study the mechanism underlying intrauterine adhesion
fibrosis and the origin of fibroblasts in the repair of endometrial
fibrosis. Design An experimental study involving an animal model of
intrauterine adhesion and detection of fibrosis-related molecules.
Setting Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College.
Population or Sample Forty-five adult (8-week-old) female
Sprague–Dawley rats. Methods The levels of molecular factors related to
the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) were examined in a rat
model of intrauterine adhesion using immunofluorescence,
immunohistochemistry, qPCR and Western blot analyses. Main Outcome
Measures Levels of the endothelial marker CD31 and the mesenchymal
markers alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vimentin. Results
Decreased CD31 levels and increased α-SMA and vimentin levels indicate
that EndMT is involved in intrauterine adhesion fibrosis. Conclusions
Endothelial cells promote the emergence of fibroblasts via the EndMT
during the endometrial fibrosis of intrauterine adhesions. Funding This
study was funded by National Natural Science Foundation of China
(81971435). Keywords Intrauterine adhesion，EndMT, fibrosis
Glycosylation of plant secondary metabolites: the regulation from chaos to harmony
Authors: zhang wenjin , chang likun , cao ye , wang sheng , lyu chaogeng , kang chuanzhi , zhou li , Huang luqi , Guo Lanping
Published: January 2024

The Bible of life is homeostasis. Plants respond to stresses by forming
a coordinated defence process from a seemingly chaotic response. Plant
molecular glycosylation is the most common and most extensive type of
modification reaction in plants. Glycosylation is also an indispensable
step for secondary metabolites to produce stable, soluble, storage,
detoxification or inactive forms through conjugation with sugars. The
present review adds to the description of glycosylation and
corresponding glycosyltransferases (GTs) in plants during defence versus
growth, which, in comparison to other plant defence regulations, are
relatively uncharted. Growth inhibition under stress conditions is
related to the redirection of plant resources (such as energy and
metabolism) from primary metabolism and growth to activate defence
mechanisms in resource-limited environments. A variety of small molecule
compounds colored by GTs play an important role in buffering the effects
of biotic and abiotic stresses on plants. Autotoxicity defense compounds
are stored in the form of inactive glycosides in the defense reaction to
release toxic aglycones and to produce cascade effects. All told,
glycosylation of secondary metabolites is of first importance to balance
growth and defence in an efficient and energy-saving way, but still far
to go.
Comparison of the pregnant and non-pregnant women of reproductive age hospitalised due to COVID 19 infection.
Authors: Kılıç Özgür , Polat Mehmet , Kopru Eda , Elmali Muzaffer , Tuna Nazmiye Tibel , bozkurt ilkay , Guven Davut , Dilek Melda
Published: January 2024

Background: COVID 19 affects pregnant women more severe than the
nonpregnant women of reproductive age. However, the rate of critical
illness and fatality reported from the other studies varied in a wide
range in both group. The study aims to investigate the clinical outcomes
of pregnant and nonpregnant patients hospitalised with COVID 19
infection. Method: Clinical, radiologoic and laboratory data of pregnant
and nonpregnant patients of reproductive age (18-45 years) infected with
COVID 19 were analysed retrospectively. Results: Of 153 patients, 123
were nonpregnant and 30 were pregnant. 15 of the 30 pregnant patients
delivered during the hopital stay and 6 of them received an urgent
cesarean section. Of the six urgent delivery, five were due to
respiratory insufficiency related to COVID 19 and one was unrelated to
COVID 19. Four preterm birth, one perinatal death but no stillbirth or
miscarriage was recorded. The most common symptom and comorbidity were
cough and asthma in both group respectively. Semiquantative CT severity
score was significantly higher in pregnants than in nonpregnants (9
points vs 2 points, p=0.022). Prognostic laboratory markers including
lymphocytopenia, C-reactive protein and D-dimer were markedly worse in
the pregnant group. Severe or critical patients were proportionally
higher in the pregnants than in the nonpregnants (26% vs 15%,
p=0.004). Hospital length of stay (HLOS) was median 4 vs 5 day; p=0.68,
mortality rate was 1/123(0.8%) vs 0/30(0%), p=0.62; intensive care
unit (ICU) admission rate was 3/123 (2.4%) vs 7/30 (23.3),
p<0.001; need for invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) was
2/123 (1.6%) vs 5/30 (17%), p=0.003 in nonpregnant and pregnant
patients respectively. Conclusion: COVID 19 has a more severe course in
pregnant women versus nonpregnant control group, but no difference was
noted in terms of hospital length of stay and mortality.
Metformin protects against diclofenac-induced toxicity in primary rat hepatocytes by preserving mitochondrial integrity via a pathway involving EPAC
Authors: Mora Fabio Aguilar , Musheshe Nshunge , Geng Yana , Soto Juan , Rodrigo José , Alieva Tatiana , Buist-Homan Manon , Schmidt Martina , Moshage Han
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: We have previously shown that the antidiabetic
drug metformin protects hepatocytes against toxicity by various
stressors. Chronic or excessive consumption of diclofenac (DF), a
pain-relieving drug, leads to drug-induced liver injury via a mechanism
involving mitochondrial damage and ultimately apoptotic death of
hepatocytes. However, whether metformin protects against DF-induced
toxicity is unknown. Recently, we have shown that cAMP elevation is
protective against DF-induced apoptotic death in hepatocytes, a
protective effect primarily involving the downstream cAMP effector EPAC
and preservation of mitochondrial function. This study aimed to
investigate whether metformin protects against DF-induced toxicity via
cAMP-EPACs. Experimental Approach: Primary rat hepatocytes were exposed
to 400 µmol/L DF. CE3F4 or ESI-O5 were used as EPAC-1 or 2 inhibitors,
respectively. Apoptosis was measured by caspase-3 activity and necrosis
by Sytox green staining. Seahorse X96 assay was used to determine
mitochondrial function. Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS)
production was measured using MitoSox, mitochondrial MnSOD expression by
immunostaining and mitochondrial morphology (fusion and fission ratio)
by 3D refractive index imaging. Key Results: Metformin (1 mmol/L) was
protective against DF-induced apoptosis in hepatocytes. This protective
effect was EPAC-dependent (mainly EPAC-2). Metformin restored
mitochondrial morphology in an EPAC-independent manner. DF-induced
mitochondrial dysfunction demonstrated by decreased oxygen consumption
rate, increased ROS production, and a reduced MnSOD level were all
reversed by metformin in an EPAC-dependent manner. Conclusion and
Implications: Metformin protects hepatocytes against DF-induced toxicity
via cAMP-dependent EPAC-2. Data available on request from the authors.