bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stretch reflex and learning in a ballet class for individuals with cerebral palsy
Authors: He Maxine , Gaebler-Spira Deborah , Levin Mindy F. , Lopez-Ortiz Citlali
Published: September 2023

This study reports changes in the stretch reflex and clinical motor sores in individuals with mixed spastic and dyskinetic cerebral palsy (CP) after learning in a targeted ballet class. Four individuals (ages 7 to 22 years) completed a personalized one-hour targeted ballet class twice per week for six weeks. Quantitative measures of the elbow or ankle stretch reflex were obtained using electromyography and electrogoniometry, along with clinical assessments of spasticity and dyskinesia. The joint angle of stretch reflex onset varied for similar velocities of stretch across participants and its variability decreased after the class. Clinical measures revealed improvements in balance, selective motor control, range of motion, and upper limb function. The variability of the stretch reflex may be attributed to the dyskinetic component of the mixed CP presentations. Changes in stretch reflex and improvements in clinical scores suggest that learning through the ballet class may be beneficial to everyday function. The study was registered in the Clinical Trials Protocol Registration and Results System (NCT04237506, January 17, 2020.)
(R)-ketamine restores anterior insular cortex activity and cognitive deficits in social isolation-reared mice
Authors: Kasai Atsushi , Yokoyama Rei , Ago Yukio , Igarashi Hisato , Higuchi Momoko , Tanuma Masato , Shimazaki Yuto , Seiriki Kaoru , Hayashida Misuzu , Yamaguchi Shun , Tanaka Hirokazu , Nakazawa Takanobu , Hashimoto Kenji , Hashimoto Hitoshi
Published: September 2023

Chronic social isolation increases the risk of mental health problems, including cognitive impairments and depression. While subanesthetic ketamine is considered effective for cognitive impairments in patients with depression, the neural mechanisms underlying its effects are not well understood. Here we identified unique activation of the anterior insular cortex (aIC) as a characteristic feature in brain-wide regions of mice reared in social isolation and treated with (R)-ketamine, a ketamine enantiomer. Using fiber photometry recording on freely moving mice, we found that social isolation attenuates aIC neuronal activation upon social contact and that (R)-ketamine, but not (S)-ketamine, is able to counteracts this reduction. (R)-ketamine facilitated social cognition in social isolation-reared mice during the social memory test. aIC inactivation offset the effect of (R)-ketamine on social memory. Our results suggest that (R)-ketamine has promising potential as an effective intervention for social cognitive deficits by restoring aIC function.
The non-linear Effect of Income on the Shadow Economy
Authors: Alfano Maria Rosaria , Capasso Salvatore , Ciucci Salvatore , Spagnolo Nicola
Published: September 2023

We study the relationship between individual’s income and tax evasion and show that this is convex, suggesting the existence of an income threshold value. Given the level of public goods provision and the perceived fairness of public services, individual’s income negatively affects tax evasion up to the point where people feel they are paying the right amount of taxes compared to the value of the goods and services they receive from the public sector. After that point, individuals consider the tax burden to be unfair and the impact of income on the level of tax evasion turns out to be positive. We also show that the income threshold value depends on the tax rate and tax enforcement system. We empirically test or hypothesis and by using a panel data-set of 143 countries over the period 1996–2015, we provide evidence of a convex relationship between income and the aggregate level of underground economy.
SGLT2 inhibitor in a Type 2 diabetes mellitus patient coexisted with central diabetes insipidus following hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state
Authors: Liu Shu , Chen Wenqiang , Zhao Yanru , Ma Shaohui , Shi Bingyin , Guo Hui
Published: September 2023

Central diabetes insipidus (CDI) rarely develops following hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. When a type 2 diabetes mellitus patient coexisted with central diabetes insipidus, it might be easily misdiagnosed when presenting only persisted hypernatremia with no sense of thirst. Herein we described a young woman with T2DM and HHS, who developed persistent hypernatremia without a sense of thirst, The diagnosis of CDI was delayed until she appeared polydipsia up to 10L/day after dapagliflozin was administered for glucose control. The absence of the low specific gravity urine was observed with a dapagliflozin treatment. With the cessation of dapagliflozin for 48 hours, the diagnosis of CDI manifesting polyuria with low specific gravity and osmolality was established by a water deprivation test and well-treated with oral desmopressin. It was indicated that an SGLT2 inhibitor may accelerate polyuria and affect urine osmolality by inhibiting glucose and sodium reabsorption in the proximal tubular. We suggest that it is necessary to stop SGLT2 inhibitors when a CDI is either suspected or established.
A Cross-Sectional Study on Depression, Anxiety, and Stress among the Bangladeshi Population amid COVID-19
Authors: Rahman Mamunur , Biswas Sushmita , Kabir Nafisa Humayera , Lee Ka Yiu , Hasan Md. Kamrul
Published: September 2023

Background: Depression, anxiety, and stress have surged worldwide and in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess the mental health condition of the Bangladeshi population during this pandemic. A cross-sectional study was carried out between Feb 17, 2021, to Apr 8, 2021, during the lockdown enforced in Bangladesh with structured questions of the DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21), and 310 responses were collected for the study purpose. One-way ANOVA was performed to determine the statistical significance. STATA-13 software was used for statistical analysis.
Results: Moderate depression was found to be higher (28.06%) among the studied population, along with highly severe anxiety (22.26%) and moderate stress (18.39%). Whether the participants live in urban or rural areas, the living area was significantly associated with depression (p = 0.033) and anxiety (p = 0.014). Despite their adverse mental health status during the pandemic, only 36 out of 310 (12%) participants visited psychologists or psychiatrists.
Conclusion: It shows that most people in lower-middle-income countries, like Bangladesh, hesitate to seek medical advice. Proper concerns must be raised to secure a healthy future.
Identification of proteins related to SIS3 by iTRAQ and PRM-based comparative proteomic analysis in cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Huang Jiayan , Ye Jian , Gao Yi , Wang Yu , Zhao Qing , Lou Tanqi , Lai Weiyan
Published: September 2023

Cisplatin is a commonly nephrotoxic drugs, causing acute kidney injury (AKI). In this study, we aimed to explore the potential regulatory role of the Smad3 phosphorylation inhibitor SIS3 in cisplatin-induced AKI. The cisplatin-induced AKI mouse model was established and treated with SIS3.Using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification(iTRAQ) to search for differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) to verify key DEPs. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Protein-Protein Interaction Networks (PPI) analysis were performed for DEPs. Lipid droplets in cells were observed by oil red O staining and bodipy493/503 staining. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in cells were detected by commercial kits. The protein expression levels were detected by western blot or immunohistochemistry. Proteomic analysis showed that the identified DEPs were mainly enriched in energy metabolism pathways, especially in lipid metabolism. After applying SIS3 to inhibit the phosphorylation of Smad3, the expression of NDRG1 and fatty acid oxidation key proteins CPT1A and PPARα increased, the expression of lipid synthesis related proteins SREBF1 and SCD1 decreased and the production of lipid droplets, MDA and ROS decreased. In conclusion, SIS3 may alleviate oxidative stress, reduced lipid accumulation and promoted fatty acid oxidation through NDRG1 in cisplatin-induced AKI.
Mitag-Leffler-Hyers-Ulam Stability of Euler-Cauchy Differential Equation Using Laplace Transform
Authors: Ahmed Abdel Baset
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we study the Mittag-Leffler-Hyers-Ulam stability and Mittag-Leffler-Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability of the Euler-Cauchy differential equation using Laplace transform. Basically, for the first time, the Mittag-Leffler-Hyers-Ulam stability of second order differential equation with variable coefficients has been studied through the Laplace transforms. We develop this approach to identify the necessary conditions that the eigenvalue Strum-Liouville equation is Mittag-Leffler-Hyers-Ulam stable.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2010): 34K20 , 26D10 , 44A10 , 39B82 , 34A40 , 39A30.
Integration of bulk RNA sequencing and single-cell RNA sequencing reveals new natural killer cells promising as biomarkers for meningiomas and glioblastomas
Authors: Zhu Rongkun , Zhou Hongjian , Shi Jun , Bai Shanwang , Ge Ling , Lin Yi , Yin Wenhao , Zeng Hui , Wang Xiongwei
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND: Meningioma (MND) and glioblastoma (GBM) are two of the most common tumors in the central nervous system. However, the exploration of common genetic features and molecular mechanisms between MND and GBM is unclear.
METHODS: we conducted an analysis of single-cell sequencing profiles on MND and GBM. Our main focus was on the expression of NK cell-associated genes, which were examined for intercellular communication analysis, cell cycle analysis, and GSVA enrichment analysis. To validate our findings, we used the GEO transcriptome dataset to compare immune-related gene profiles of MND and GBM patients. Furthermore, we delved into the characterization and immune molecular mechanisms of NK cell-related genes that were co-expressed in both diseases.
RESULTS:In this study, we analyzed single-cell sequencing data from 3 glioma patients and 3 meningioma patients to investigate the role of NK cells. We identified and tagged 108 shared NK cell marker genes. To validate NK cell expression, we used the CIBERSORT immune infiltration assay. The GSVA results indicated that both diseases showed high expression in angiogenesis and coagulation. Additionally, we employed the PPI interaction network and the Cyto-Hubba algorithm to screen 19 Hub genes. The differential expression and immune infiltration of these genes were further validated in GSE21354 and GSE43290 datasets, and the AUC value for each gene was calculated. Finally, we constructed a TF-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network based on these Hub genes
CONCLUSION: This study identifies shared NK cell marker genes between glioblastoma (GBM) and meningioma (MND) and confirms a new NK cell as a biomarker for GBM and MND.
Perceived effects of health status on sexual activity in patients with axial spondylarthritis followed for 5 years
Authors: Rohde Gudrun , Berg Kari Hansen , Pripp Are Hugo , Haugeberg Glenn
Published: September 2023

Background
Axial spondyloarthritis (ax-SpA) causes pain, fatigue, stiffness, loss of physical function, and poor health status, which can influence sexual activity and enjoyment.
Aims
To explore whether patients with ax-SpA perceive that their health status affects their sexual activity and to identify predictors of these perceived effects on sexual activity after a 5-year follow-up.
Methods
Data about demographics, disease, medication, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and sexual quality of life (SQOL) were collected at the baseline and 5-year follow-up. The perceived effect of health status on sexual activity was measured by question 15 in the 15D questionnaire. Data were analysed using the McNemar and independent paired t tests and logistic regression.
Results
In the 244 patients with ax-SpA (30% women, 70% men; mean age, 46 years), measures reflecting disease activity decreased and comorbidities increased, and more patients were treated with biological drugs at 5 years. Compared with patients whose health status had little/no effect on sexual activity, those who perceived that their health status had a large effect on sexual activity were older, exercised less, fewer were employed, had more comorbidities, higher disease activity, and lower HRQOL and SQOL. The baseline predictors of a negative effect of health status on sexual activity were old age and low SQOL.
Conclusion
Patients reporting that their health status had a large effect on sexual activity at 5 years were older and had a less healthy lifestyle, more disease activity, and lower HRQOL and SQOL.
Preparation and characterization of sulfamic acid-functionalized Fe3O4 nanoparticles as an efficient magnetic nanocatalyst for the facile and eco-friendly synthesis of quinoxalines, benzothiazoles and benzoxazoles
Authors: Tajbakhsh Mahmood , Mazhari Fatemeh , Nirouei Negar
Published: September 2023

In this study, sulfamic acid-functionalized Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4@EDA-SO3H) was successfully synthesized as an effective nanomagnetic acid catalyst. This magnetically recoverable catalyst was well characterized by FT-IR, XRD, TGA, VSM, SEM, EDX and CHN techniques. The prepared catalyst exhibited high efficiency in the synthesis of quinoxaline, benzothiazole and benzoxazole derivatives via simple and environmentally-benign procedure. The catalyst can be readily separated from the reaction medium by employing an external magnet and reused several times without significant loss of its catalytic activity.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Circulating Tumor DNA Genotyping and Survival Analysis in Lung Adenocarcinoma With Leptomeningeal Metastases
Authors: Bai Kaixuan , Chen Xin , Qi Xuejiao , Zhang Yu , Zou Yueli , Li Jian , Yu Lili , Li Yuanyuan , Jiang Jiajia , Yang Yi , Liu Yajing , Feng Shuanghao , Bu Hui
Published: September 2023

Purpose
The prognosis of patients with leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) remains poor. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has been proven more abundantly present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), hence, its clinical implication as a biomarker need to be further verified.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective study of 35 lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients with LM, and all patients collected matched CSF and plasma samples. All paired samples underwent next-generation sequencing (NGS) of 139 lung cancer-associated genes. The clinical characteristics and genetic profiling of LM were analyzed association with survival prognosis.
Results
LM showed genetic heterogeneity, which CSF had higher detection rate of ctDNA (P = 0.003), more median mutations count (P < 0.0001), higher frequencies of driver mutations (P < 0.01), more copy number variations (CNVs) alterations (P < 0.001) than plasma. The mutation frequency of EGFR, TP53, CDKN2A, MYC and CDKN2B genes were easier to be detected in CSF than in LUAD tissue (P < 0.05), this may reveal the underlying mechanism of LM metastasis. CSF ctDNA is helpful to analyze the mechanism of EGFR-TKIs resistance. In cohort 1, who receive 1/2 EGFR-TKIs before the diagnosis of LM, TP53 and CDKN2A were the most common EGFR-independent resistant mutations. In cohort 2, who progressed after osimertinib and developed LM, 7 patients (43.75%) had EGFR CNV detected in CSF but not plasma. Furthermore, patient characteristics and various genes were included for interactive survival analysis. Patients with EGFR gene mutation in lung tissue (P = 0.042) had higher median OS and CSF ctDNA mutation with TERT (P = 0.013) indicated lower median OS. Lastly, we reported a LM case whose CSF ctDNA dynamic changes were well correlated with his clinical treatment.
Conclusions
CSF ctDNA could provide a more comprehensive genetic landscape of LM, which indicated the potential metastasis-related and EGFR-TKIs resistance mechanisms of LM patients. Besides, genotyping of CSF combined with clinical outcomes can predict the prognosis of LUAD patients with LM.
Microalgae Chlorella vulgaris 211/11j as a promising strain for low temperature climate
Authors: Ievina Baiba , Romagnoli Francesco
Published: September 2023

Microalgae are regarded as a promising source of renewable energy and high-value compounds. To date most large-scale microalgae cultivation is located in hot low-latitude regions; however, high temperature and high solar intensity create a risk for overheating during summer days. Here we explore the option of microalgae cultivation at low temperature regions. The impact of low temperature on microalgae growth is rarely considered in studied species and strains. To assess the optimum temperature and to test the ability to grow in low temperatures, we tested the effect of environmental temperatures ranging from 8 to 32°C on the growth of the green microalgae Chlorella vulgaris 211/11j. This strain was selected as a candidate strain for outdoor cultivation after an extensive literature review. The results indicate that C. vulgaris 211/11j has a lower optimal growth temperature than some other strains of C. vulgaris and exhibits optimal growth over a wide temperature range from 20 to 28°C. Moreover, we demonstrate that the strain can grow successfully at low environmental temperatures below the optimum of this strain. Therefore, we suggest that C. vulgaris 211/11j may be suitable for cultivation in outdoor open ponds exposed to changing environmental temperatures in cooler climate regions.
Loss of direct vascular contact to astrocytes in the hippocampus as an initial event in Alzheimer’s disease. Evidence from patients, in vivo and in vitro experimental models.
Authors: Pomilio C , Presa J , Oses C , Vinuesa A , Bentivegna Melisa , Gregosa Amal , Riudavets Miguel , Sevlever Gustavo , Galvan Veronica , Levi Valeria , Beauquis Juan , Saravia Flavia
Published: September 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of aggregated amyloid peptides in the brain parenchyma and also around vasculature. The hippocampus -a complex brain structure with a crucial role in learning and memory- is considered a target in the pathology. However, there is scarce information regarding vascular changes during the AD neurodegenerative process in this vulnerable structure, that is a unique in terms of vasculature features. Our aim was to evaluate hippocampal vascular alterations in AD patients and PDAPP-J20 mice -model of AD- and define the impact of Aβ40 and Aβ42 on endothelial activation. We found loss of physical astrocyte-endothelium interaction in the hippocampus of AD subjects as compared to non-AD donors together with decreased vascular density. Astrocyte-endothelial interactions and levels of the tight junction protein occludin were early altered in PDAPP-J20 mice, before vascular morphological changes or blood-brain barrier disruption were evident. At later stages, PDAPP-J20 mice showed decreased hippocampal vascular density and extravasation of fluorescent tracers, indicating vascular and BBB dysfunction. In vitro studies showed that exposure of human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC) to soluble Aβ40 was sufficient to promote NFκB translocation to the nucleus, leading to a reduction in occludin levels. These changes were prevented by treatment of HBMEC with an inhibitor of the membrane receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE). Additional results suggest that Aβ42 acts indirectly on the endothelium by inducing astrocytic factors. Furthermore, our results from human and mouse brain samples provide evidence for the crucial involvement of the hippocampal vasculature during Alzheimer's disease.
Efficacy of intranasal administration of dexmedetomidine in combination with midazolam for sedation in infant with cleft lip and palate: A double blinded prospective randomized trial
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Ma Lian , Yang Xudong , Zhou Yi , Zhang Xiang , Han Fang
Published: September 2023

Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intranasal administration of dexmedetomidine combined with midazolam as a sedative option for infants with cleft lip and palate.
Materials and Methods
Infants scheduled for cleft lip and palate repair surgery were randomly assigned to the IND group (intranasal dexmedetomidine 2 µg/kg alone) and the INDM group (intranasal dexmedetomidine 2 µg/kg combined with midazolam 0.05 mg/kg). The primary outcome was the proportion of infants underwent successful computed tomography scans under intranasal sedation. The secondary outcomes included onset time and duration of sedation, recovery time and so on.
Results
105 infants were included in the analysis. The proportion of infants underwent successful CT scans under sedation was significantly greater in the INDM group than in the IND group (47 [95.9%] vs. 45 [80.4%], p = 0.016). Additionally, the INDM group had a shorter onset time and a longer duration of sedation statistically (12 [8.5, 17] min vs. 16 [12, 20] min, p = 0.001; 80 [63.6, 92.5] min vs. 68.5 [38, 89] min, p = 0.014, respectively), and their recovery time was significantly longer (43 [30, 59.5] min vs. 31.5 [20.5, 53.5] min, p = 0.006).
Conclusion
Intranasal administration of dexmedetomidine combined with midazolam resulted in higher sedation success in comparison with sole dexmedetomidine.
Clinical Relevance:
Intranasal administration of dexmedetomidine combined with midazolam can be used for sedation in infants with cleft lip and palate imaging procedure and provide a faster onset time.
Clinical Trial Registration site: https://www.chictr.org.cn.
Clinical Trial Registration number: ChiCTR2100049122.
The Synergistic Effect Study of Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and A53T-α-synuclein: Intranasal LPS Exposure on the A53T-α-synuclein Transgenic Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: He Qing , Zhang Shuzhen , Wang Jian , Ma Tengfei , Ma Ding , Wu Li , Zhou Mengxi , Zhao Lei , Chen Yajing , Liu Jianren , Chen Wei
Published: September 2023

Aging and the interaction between genetic and environmental factors are believed to be involved in chronic Parkinson's Disease (PD) progression. Abnormal aggregated α-synuclein is the main component of Lewy body in PD patients. The intranasal route is believed to be a gate way to the brain which facilitates entry of environmental neurotoxin into the brain and account for the smell loss in early PD. In this study, we chronically applied intranasal lipopolysaccharides (LPS) exposure on 4-month-old, 8-month-old, 12-month-old and 16-month-old A53T-α-synuclein (A53T-α-Syn) transgenic C57BL/6 mice every other day for 2 months to evaluate the behavioral, pathological, biochemical changes as well as microglial activation in these mice. We observed intranasal LPS exposed A53T-α-Syn mice displayed a robust progressive olfactory disorder, hypokinesia, selective loss of dopaminergic neurons, reduction in striatal dopamine (DA) content, and accelerated α-synuclein aggregation in the SN in an age-dependent way. Furthermore, we found obvious NF-кB activation, Nurr1 inhibition, IL-1β and TNF-α generation in microglia in the SN. By contrast, these PD-like changes were mild in WT and moderate in A53T-α-Syn mice in old-aged mice. This study demonstrated the synergistic effect of intranasal LPS and α-synuclein burden on PD progression. The potential mechanism was attributed to the inhibition of Nurr1 in microglial cells and the amplified neuroinflammation in the CNS. These multi-hit animals (aging, α-synuclein mutation and neuroinflammation) might help us to investigate the mechanisms through which mutant α-synuclein and inflammation work in concert to mediate PD neurodegeneration.
Relationship between Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Count Ratio and Acute Kidney Injury following Surgery of Stanford Type A Aorta Dissection
Authors: Ding Xiaoyan , Chen Yuanxiang , Zeng Lijuan , zheng xiao'e , zhou xiaofen
Published: September 2023

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between the hematological index of platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) following surgery of Stanford acute type A aorta dissection (ATAAD).Method We analyzed the perioperative data of the patients with ATAAD who were treated surgically in Fujian Provincial Hospital from December 2016 to December 2021.Results Patients were divided into acute AKI (n = 66) and non-AKI (n = 36) groups based on the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO). There was no difference in preoperative PLR values. In addition, the PLR within 24 h (T1 PLR) following surgery was higher in the AKI group than in the non-AKI group (P = 0.001). Reintubation rates, intensive care unit(ICU) stay, and 30-day mortality were significantly different in the AKI group (P = 0.004, P = 0.002 and P = 0.002). Furthermore, multivariate analyses showed that higher body mass index (BMI), hypoalbuminemia, reduced T1 PLR and preoperative renal function insufficient were risk factors for postoperative AKI. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that the cut-off level of T1 PLR decline predicted AKI:144.6, the area under the curve (AUC):0.7146, 0.6112–0.8181, and P = 0.0004, with a sensitivity of 58.33% and a specificity of 77.27%.Conclusions This retrospective study demonstrated that a decreased T1 PLR after surgery is the independent risk factor for the occurrence of postoperative AKI in ATAAD patients and has possible predictive value for AKI.
Resilient Ranking of Healthcare Suppliers Amid COVID-19 using Enhanced MADM with Lq* q-Rung Orthopair Multi-Fuzzy Soft Information
Authors: Mahalakshmi P. , Jayakumar Vimala , Edalatpanah S.A. , Banu K. Ashma
Published: September 2023

The global healthcare systems have encountered unparalleled difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the crucial significance of effective management within healthcare supply chains. This research contributes to the field of healthcare supply chain management by presenting a robust MADM methodology called lattice ordered(Lq *) q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set(Lq * q-ROMF S-MADM) for supplier evaluation and ranking amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking inspiration from multi-fuzzy soft set and q-rung orthopair fuzzy set, the present research article proposes a novel framework known as Lq * q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set (Lq * qROMF SS), which incorporates lattice ordering in q-rung orthopair multi-fuzzy soft set. The effectiveness of the proposed model is confirmed through successful experimentation on various important operations, including union, intersection, complement, restricted union and intersection. Moreover, the verification of De Morgan’s laws for Lq * qROMF SS is carried out specifically for these operations mentioned above. To highlight the significance of the proposed Lq * qROMF SS , a multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) problem is presented, showcasing its application in the domain of healthcare supply chain management. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is conducted to elucidate the advantages of this model in comparison to existing models.
Human papillomavirus infections among women with cervical lesions and cervical cancer in Yueyang, China: A cross-sectional study of 3674 women from 2019 to 2022
Authors: Zeng Min , Zhang Xiaoyun , He LiLi , Liu Xin , Liu Huawen , Deng Rui , Qiu Bo , Liu Fang , Xiao Hang , Li Quanlv , Li Wen , Liu Chongmei , Ge Yangqing
Published: September 2023

PURPOSE
To investigate the distribution of the incidence and genotypes of human papillomavirus (HPV) among women with cervical cancer (CC) and precancerous cervical lesions in Yueyang City, China, to develop prevention and control strategies for CC.
METHODS
3674 patients with cervical lesions diagnosed by pathology as a gold standard at 7 hospitals in Yueyang City between September 2019 and September 2022 were selected. They included 1910, 718, 576, and 470 cases of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) I, CIN II, CIN III, and CC, respectively. A cross-sectional study combining HPV test results from these cases.
RESULTS
The total HPV prevalence was 74.69% (95%CI: 73.28–76.09%) in 3674 patients. The incidence of high- and low-risk HPV was 73.46% and 7.21%, respectively. The prevalence of HPV in CIN I, CIN II, CIN III, and invasive CC (ICC) groups was 66.65% (1273/1910, 95%CI: 64.53–68.77%), 80.78% (580/718, 95%CI: 77.89–83.67%), 83.88% (483/576, 95%CI: 80.84–86.87%), and 86.81% (408/470, 95%CI: 83.74–89.88%), respectively. The top three HPV subtypes in ICC are HPV16, HPV52, and HPV58. The prevalence of HPV 16 increased with increasing disease severity, with this genotype being present in 12.57%, 20.89%, 36.98%, and 50.85% of CIN I, CIN II, CIN III, and ICC cases, respectively (p < 0.001). Single HPV infection was predominant in cervical lesions, with a prevalence of 48.50% (95%CI: 46.89–50.12%). The HPV prevalence varied by age, being highest among women with ICC, CIN I, CIN II and CIN III aged ≥ 60 years, 50 to 59 years, 40 to 49 years, and 40 to 49 years, respectively.
CONCLUSION
The prevalence of HPV in patients with cervical lesions in Yueyang City was very high, with HPV 16, 52, 58, 53, and 51 being the five most common HPV genotypes in patients with cervical lesions. These results serve as data for supporting future vaccination and screening programs.
Host Genetic Variants Associated with Susceptibility and Severity of Pneumococcal Pneumonia in Adult Patients
Authors: Boix-Palop Lucía , Arranz María J. , Sangil Anna , Dietl Beatriz , Xercavins Mariona , Pérez Josefa , Calbo Esther
Published: September 2023

Background
The aim of the study was to assess the influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) within key genes involved in the innate immune response on the susceptibility to pneumococcal community-acquired pneumonia (P-CAP) and to study whether these polymorphic variants were associated with the severity and outcome of the episodes in a cohort of adult Caucasian patients.
Methods
Seventeen SNPs from 7 genes (IL-R1, IL-4, IL-10, IL-12B, NFKBIA, NFKBIE, NFKBIZ) were analysed. For susceptibility, a case-control study including a cohort of adult patients with CAP and 280 ethnically matched controls was performed. Genetic influence on clinical severity and outcome was evaluated in a prospective observational study including all consecutive adult CAP patients from November 2015 to May 2017.
Results
The NFKBIA polymorphism rs696 and a haplotype combination were associated with susceptibility to P-CAP (OR = 0.62, p = 0.005 and OR = 0.63, p = 0.008, respectively). The SNP IL4 rs2227284 was associated with severe P-CAP (OR = 2.17, p = 0.04). IL-R1 (rs3917267) and IL-10 (rs3024509) variants were related with respiratory failure (OR = 3.31, p = 0.001 and OR = 0.18, p = 0.003, respectively) as well as several haplotype combinations in NFKBIA, NFKBIZ, IL-R1 and IL-10 (p = 0,02, p = 0,01, p = 0,001, p = 0,03, respectively). CURB-65 values were associated with the IL-10 rs3024509 variant (beta=-0.4, p = 0.04), and with haplotype combinations of NFKBIZ and IL-10 (p = 0.05, p = 0.04, respectively). Genetic variants in IL-10 (rs3024509) and in IL-12B (rs730691) were associated with PSI values (beta=-0.54, p = 0.01, and beta=-0.28, p = 0.04, respectively), as were allelic combinations in IL-R1 (p = 0.02) and IL-10 (p = 0.01). Finally, several polymorphisms in the IL-R1 gene (rs13020778, rs2160227, & rs3917267) were associated with the time elapsed until clinical stability (beta =-0.83, p = 0.03; beta=-1, p = 0.02 and beta = 1.07, p = 0.008, respectively).
Conclusions
A genetic variant in NFKBIA was associated with susceptibility to P-CAP in adult Caucasian patients and genetic variants from key cytokines of the innate immune response (Il-4, IL-10, IL-R1 and IL-12B) and NF-κB inhibitors were associated with different phenotypes of severe P-CAP. If validated, these SNPs may help to identify people at risk of P-CAP or severe P-CAP on which preventive measures could be applied.
The application of the Finite Elements Method in the Transient Measurements of Thermophysical Parameters
Authors: Malinarič Svetozár
Published: September 2023

The Finite Element Method (FEM) is used to improve the Extended Dynamic Plane Source (EDPS) method in order to obtain more accurate values of the thermal conductivity and diffusivity of the specimen. A method of the FEM-calculated response transformation into an analytical form that can be used in fitting the measured temperature response has been described and verified. Furthermore, a modification of the EDPS method designated as EDPS1 is designed, where only one piece of specimen is used. Since there is no analytical formula for the new method, the analytical formula for EDPS is used. The initial specimen parameter estimates for EDPS1 are accordingly very rough, and therefore the FEM numerical runs need to be repeated several times until the estimates reach relative errors of around 1%.
Experience with eHealth in the palliative care pathway for head and neck cancer patients – a mixed-methods study
Authors: Besselaar Boyd N. van den , Hof Kira S. van , Sewnaik Aniel , de Jong Robert. J. Baatenburg , Offerman Marinella P.J.
Published: September 2023

Purpose
Our Expert Center of Palliative Care for head and neck cancer offers structural attention to patients’ complex physical and psychosocial care needs. Patients are offered remote care to enable them to stay as long as possible in their trusted home environment. This includes digital monitoring using patient-reported outcome measures. Our research adds to the limited literature on qualitative feedback and patient-reported experiences with palliative HNC care.
Methods
In this mixed-methods study we evaluated our palliative care pathway. In total, 56 head and neck cancer patients in the palliative care phase and 49 next-of-kin were included. We evaluated their experiences with a patient-reported experience measure that included open questions.
Results
The face-to-face consultations on the day of the palliative diagnosis were positively experienced by most patients and next-of-kin. One-third missed at least one topic during these consultations, such as discussing life expectancy. During the remote follow-up, the majority felt safe with this care: they were able to sufficiently clarify their problems and, if necessary, timely action was taken. However, 35% of patients and 46% of next-of-kin considered the provided psychosocial support to be insufficient.
Conclusion
Patients and next-of-kin were satisfied with most aspects of the palliative care, and remote care seems a promising means of delivery. Key areas needing attention are discussing life expectancy and providing psychosocial support. Future research will focus on better understanding patients’ needs during specific moments in the palliative trajectory to optimally deliver personalized and value-based healthcare.
The antimicrobial peptide ToAP2 is synergic with caspofungin and amphotericin B against Candida auris
Authors: Pinheiro Thalita Kellen Silva , Nicola André Moraes , Bentes Davi Brasil , Zhang Sean X. , Felipe Maria Sueli Soares , Silva-Pereira Ildinete , Albuquerque Patrícia
Published: September 2023

Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant fungus associated with invasive infections, high mortality rates, therapeutic failure, and nosocomial outbreaks in different regions of the world. This situation highlights the need for new antifungal drugs. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are evolutionarily conserved molecules present in different organisms that are considered promising alternatives for the development of new therapies. In this work, we evaluated the in vitro antifungal activity of two scorpion venom antimicrobial peptides, ToAP1 and ToAP2, against 11 different strains of C. auris. ToAP2 demonstrated activity against most isolates with minimal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 50 to 100 µM (150–300 µg/mL). In contrast, all isolates were resistant to ToAP1. Furthermore, ToAP2 showed synergistic effect with amphotericin B and caspofungin against C. auris, with fractional inhibitory concentration indices of 0.25 to 0.37 and 0.03 to 0.12, respectively. These results suggest that this AMP can be further explored as a potential molecule alone or in combination with other available treatments for C. auris infections.
Real-world Treatment Patterns and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Radioiodine-refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer (Rai-r Dtc) Treated With First Line Lenvatinib Monotherapy in the United States
Authors: Worden Francis , Rajkovic-Hooley Olivera , Reynolds Neil , Milligan Gary , Zhang Jingchuan
Published: September 2023

Purpose
Lenvatinib was approved for the treatment of patients with radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RAI-R DTC) in the United States (US) in 2015. The main objective of the current study was to assess real-world clinical effectiveness in RAI-R DTC patients treated with first line lenvatinib monotherapy in the US.
Methods
A retrospective chart review was conducted in RAI-R DTC patients who initiated lenvatinib monotherapy as first line treatment between February 2015 and September 2020. Anonymized data were abstracted by prescribing physicians from individual patient’s electronic health records. Clinical outcomes included provider-reported real-world best overall response (rwBOR), real-world progression-free survival (rwPFS), and overall survival (OS). Time-to-event endpoints were assessed using Kaplan-Meier methods.
Results
Our study included 308 RAI-R DTC patients treated with first line lenvatinib. At lenvatinib initiation, patients’ median age was 60 years, 51.6% were female, and 26.0% of patients had an ECOG performance score of ≥ 2. Over the follow-up period, 32.5% of patients discontinued first line lenvatinib permanently, with others remaining on treatment. The median duration of lenvatinib therapy was 17.5 months overall. Provider-reported rwBOR (complete or partial response) to lenvatinib was 72.4%. Median rwPFS was 49.0 months. Estimated rwPFS rates at 24 and 48 months were 68.5% and 55.0%, respectively. Estimated OS rates at 24 and 72 months were 78.4% and 57.0%, respectively; median OS was not reached.
Conclusion
The current study reinforces the clinical effectiveness of first line lenvatinib as standard of care in patients with RAI-R DTC in real-world clinical practice in the US.
Aerobic physical capacity and health-related quality of life in children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Laurent-Lacroix Corentin , Vincenti Marie , Matecki Stefan , Mahé Perrine , Moulis Lionel , Villeon Grégoire De La , Guillaumont Sophie , Requirand Anne , Moreau Johan , Lalande Muriel , Picot Marie-Christine , Amedro Pascal , Gavotto Arthur
Published: September 2023

Purpose
To evaluate the aerobic capacity by cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease in comparison with healthy matched controls and to determine the factors associated with impaired maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) in this population.
Methods and results
A total of 72 children (24 with sickle cell disease and 48 healthy controls), aged 6 to 17 years old underwent a complete CPET and were enrolled in a cross-sectional controlled study. Children with sickle cell disease had a poor aerobic capacity, with median VO2max Z-score values significantly lower than matched controls (-3.55[-4.68; -2.02] vs. 0.25[-0.22; 0.66], P < 0.01, respectively), and a high proportion of 92% children affected by an impaired aerobic capacity (VO2max Z-score<-1.64). The ventilatory anaerobic threshold was impaired in 71% of children with sickle cell disease. The VO2max decrease was associated with the level of anemia, the existence of a homozygote HbS/S mutation, restrictive lung disease (low forced vital capacity associated to low total lung capacity) and health-related quality of life. In multivariate analysis, VO2max Z-score was associated with hemoglobin level (ß=0.37; 95%CI=[0.01; 0.72]; P = 0.04).
Conclusion
Aerobic capacity is poor in children with sickle cell disease. VO2max decrease is associated with the level of anemia, the existence of a homozygote HbS/S mutation, lung function, and health-related quality of life. These results represent a signal in favor of early initiation of cardiac rehabilitation in patients with sickle cell disease.
Clinicaltrials: NCT05995743
Statistical Characteristics of Markets: The case of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE)
Authors: Yalla Brian , Ateke Gideon Ntui , Makotore Prosper
Published: September 2023

This study employs exploratory data analysis to assess the statistical characteristics of emerging markets using the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) as a proxy. The study deploys a number of tests using R- software to assess stationarity, stability, regime changes, market anomalies, autocorrelation of returns and predictability of the returns. Daily closing price data for the JSE All Share index covering the period 2005 to 2020 obtained from the JSE is used in this study. Several key findings emerge from the study; (i) returns of the JSE are mean reverting and display volatility clustering where periods of high returns are followed by periods of high returns and period of low returns are succeeded by periods of low returns, (ii) contrary to numerous studies on market returns in emerging markets the prices and returns of the JSE display low average returns and low volatilities, (iii) there is no proof of Monday effect in the JSE returns however January effect is observable from the assessment, (iv) the returns of the JSE follow a random walk process and hence the returns are unpredictable, (v) the market returns of the JSE are non- stable and non -stationary based on the KPSS stationarity test. These findings produce mixed results with regards to theoretical assertions about emerging markets and asset markets in general. From a policy perspective, the study and the findings herein buttress the significance of exploratory data analysis in market assessment and decision making.
Oxidative Potential of Airborne Particulate Matter: A Bibliometric Analysis of Current Research, Challenges, and Future Perspectives.
Authors: Sánchez Luis Felipe , Catalán Francisco , Villacura Loreto , A. Richard Toro , G. Manuel A. Leiva
Published: September 2023

The present comprehensive study provides a detailed bibliometric analysis of the oxidative potential (OP) of particulate matter (PM). This area of research is rapidly expanding and has significant implications for human health and the environment. We carefully screened 569 articles. 368 studies were selected for further bibliometric analysis. Our bibliometric results indicate strong international collaboration in this field. In particular, the growing importance of OP-PM research is highlighted by a remarkable increase in the number of publications in the 2010s, with a 24-fold increase compared to the early 2000s. The dissemination of research is concentrated in a select group of eight journals. The remaining content is spread across 75 different journals. Furthermore, our study reveals a concentration of research in a limited number of institutions, mainly in the academic and university sector. There is a notable absence of contributions from the private sector. From the analysis of the research field, we have identified the main global research hotspots for OP-PM. These hotspots highlight the importance of capacity building, innovation, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and improved understanding of emission sources, atmospheric processes, and the impacts of PM and its OP. Furthermore, our study argues in favour of better understanding of personal exposure in different environments and the impact of emerging contaminants, including nanoparticles. Our findings also highlight the need to consider climate change effects on OP-PM and the regulatory context for PM research. Pursuing these research directions will improve our understanding of PM and its effects. It will also support more effective air quality management and public health protection strategies.
Design and Implementation of Digital Automation System for the Protection of Equipment and Machineries in Ethio Telecom
Authors: Wondimu Aneley , Girma Mesfin , Mekuria Alemneh , Refera Birhanu , Tesfaye Yared , Kifle Shimekit , Solomon Biniam
Published: September 2023

Equipment and
Machineries in Telecom Industries may not be work properly due to
over humidity, temperature and water detection. Telecom automation
system is needed for controlling and protecting equipment by using
Digital automation system that provides an easy way of controlling
Telecom industry even if the operator is not physically present in
the in the required place. In this project work the design and
implementation of digital automation system for the protection of
ethio telecom equipments and machineries were investigated. The
automation system performed using two system units,
Arduino-microcontroller interfaced with the three sensors and with
GSM module to send an SMS message to the second unit called mobile
station handled by the operator. In case of humidity control
system, DHT11 sensor is used to measure the relative humidity. If
the value of humidity exceeds the threshold point (50 RH), it
triggered the Arduino-microcontroller to send SMS to the operator
through GSM module. In case of temperature control system, If the
DHT11 sensor exceeds the threshold point(25 oC),
Arduino-microcontroller send SMS to the operator through GSM
module. In case of water detection control system, rain drop sensor
was used to detect water in the appliances’ room if there was water
detected, the buzzer and LED activated to actuate humans near
around the circuit and then triggered the Arduino-microcontroller
to send a SMS to the operator through GSM module.The developed
system was programmed using embedded C language, and mobile station
using an android mobile which provides to the operator for
controlling purposes.
Production and characterization of pyocyanin pigment from Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Joshi Aparna , Waghmare Rajshri , Jadhav Mahadev
Published: September 2023

Pyocyanin, a blue-green phenazine pigment, is produced by various strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and has demonstrated diverse applications in medicine, agriculture, environmental protection, and nanotechnology. This study aimed to isolate and purify pyocyanin pigment from Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures grown in different media, including succinate, glucose, King’s B, and Muller-Hinton broth. The chloroform extraction method was employed to extract the pigment, resulting in the separation of two layers, with the pyocyanin-enriched pigment residing in the lower blue layer containing chloroform. Subsequently, the pigment was subjected to further purification using column chromatography on a silica gel column, employing chloroform as the elution solvent. The purified pyocyanin was verified by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), ensuring its integrity and purity. The UV-Vis spectrophotometer was then employed to characterize the purified pigments, providing valuable insights into their spectral properties. The results indicate successful isolation and purification of pyocyanin pigment from Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures in various media, demonstrating the versatility of the extraction method used. The characterization through UV-Vis spectrophotometry confirms the purity of the obtained pigment, validating its potential applicability in a wide range of fields, including medicine, agriculture, environmental management, and nanotechnology for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles.

This research contributes to a better understanding of pyocyanin production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and offers valuable insights into its potential applications, thereby opening new avenues for further exploration and exploitation of this valuable pigment in various industrial and scientific domains