bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De Novo Psychiatric Disorders in a Woman With Giant Prolactinoma Treated With Cabergoline
Authors: Belhadj Slimane Chayma , Oueslati Ibtissem , Yazidi Meriem , Kamoun Elyes , Chihaoui Melika
Published: July 2023

Dopamine agonists are the first-line treatment of prolactinomas. The risk of developing de novo psychiatric symptoms during dopamine agonist therapy is low. Herein, we report the case of a 42-year-old woman with a giant prolactinoma who developed a psychiatric disorder after 1 day of cabergoline therapy initiation. She presented with amenorrhea, galactorrhea, headaches, and disturbed vision. Biological investigations revealed hyperprolactinemia (2975 ng/ml) with gonadotropin deficiency. Pituitary MRI showed a giant pituitary adenoma. The patient was treated with cabergoline at the dose of 1 mg twice weekly. One day after the treatment initiation, she developed acute delirium with temporospatial disorientation and compulsive medication use. These symptoms disappeared 1 week after the reduction of the dose of cabergoline. Patients with hyperprolactinemia receiving an initial high dose of cabergoline may develop changes in mood and behavior regardless of prior psychiatric history.
Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment for acute attacks in myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease
Authors: Lotan Itay , Chen John J , Hacohen Yael , Abdel-Mannan Omar , Mariotto Sara , Huda Saif , Gibbons Emily , Wilf-Yarkoni Adi , Hellmann Mark A , Stiebel-Kalish Hadas , Pittock Sean J , Flanagan Eoin P , Molazadeh Negar , Anderson Monique , Salky Rebecca , Romanow Gabriela , Schindler Patrick , Duchow Ankelien Solveig , Paul Friedemann , Levy Michael
Published: July 2023

Background:

The potential therapeutic benefit of intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIGs) for acute attacks of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOGAD) is unknown.

Objective:

The objective was to describe the outcomes of IVIG treatment for acute MOGAD attacks.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study involving seven tertiary neuroimmunology centers. Data collection included patients’ demographics, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and visual acuity (VA) before the attack, at the nadir of the attack before IVIG treatment, and at follow-up visits ⩾3 months after treatment.

Results:

Thirty-nine patients were included, of which 21 (53.8%) were female. The median age was 23 years (range 5–74 years), and the median disease duration was 4 months (range 0–93 months). The most common type of attack treated with IVIG was isolated optic neuritis (ON) (unilateral n = 14, bilateral n = 5, associated with transverse myelitis (TM), n = 1), followed by acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) ( n = 8), multifocal ( n = 7), TM ( n = 3), brainstem ( n = 1), and other encephalitis ( n = 1). A significant improvement in both the EDSS and VA measures was observed at follow-up compared to the time of IVIG treatment initiation ( p < 0.0001 for both outcome measures).

Conclusion:

IVIG may be an effective treatment option for acute MOGAD attacks. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate our results.
A Postictal Traffic Jam
Authors: Eyal Sara
Published: July 2023

[Box: see text]
Pakistani military’s rhetorical construction of an Indigenous civil rights movement
Authors: Jan Faizullah , Khan Azmat
Published: July 2023

For the last four decades, Pakistan’s northwestern Pashtun tribal areas have been in a constant state of imperialist wars. In reaction to this organized violence, a local civil rights movement, the PTM, emerged in 2014 which powerfully challenged the military’s discursive regime that legitimates these US-led wars. However, the military challenged the movement’s call for justice by launching a concerted discursive drive to construct an enemy image of the PTM. This study aims to discover how the military constructs the identity, as well as the cultural and political meanings of the movement. The authors found that the military strategically organizes its discourse to first build a symbolic order in which an enemy other, less than human, is created, and then its oppression is normalized and made invisible. They hope that the article contributes to the current critical scholarship on the increasing militarization of contemporary public spaces and democratic cultures, particularly in the context of South Asia.
TERC haploid cell reprogramming: a novel therapeutic strategy for aplastic anemia
Authors: Tang Xinyu , Xu Ruirong , Wang Yan , Chen Kaiqing , Cui Siyuan
Published: July 2023

The telomerase RNA component (TERC) gene plays an important role in telomerase-dependent extension and maintenance of the telomeres. In the event of TERC haploinsufficiency, telomere length is often affected; this, in turn, can result in the development of progeria-related diseases such as aplastic anemia (AA) and congenital keratosis. Cell reprogramming can reverse the differentiation process and can, therefore, transform cells into pluripotent stem cells with stronger differentiation and self-renewal abilities; further, cell reprograming can also extend the telomere length of these cells, which may be crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of telomere depletion diseases such as AA. In this study, we summarized the effects of TERC haploid cell reprogramming on telomere length and the correlation between this alteration and the pathogenesis of AA; by investigating the role of cell reprogramming in AA, we aimed to identify novel diagnostic indicators and therapeutic strategies for patients with AA.
The PRO-RCC study: a long-term PROspective Renal Cell Carcinoma cohort in the Netherlands, providing an infrastructure for ‘Trial within Cohorts’ study designs
Authors: Yildirim Hilin , Widdershoven Christiaan V , Aarts Maureen JB , Bex Axel , Bloemendal Haiko J , Bochove-Overgaauw Deirdre M , Hamberg Paul , Herbschleb Karin H , van der Hulle Tom , Lagerveld Brunolf W , van Oijen Martijn GH , Oosting Sjoukje F , van Thienen Johannes V , van der Veldt Astrid AM , Westgeest Hans M , Zeijdner Evelijn E , Aben Katja KH , van den Hurk Corina , Zondervan Patricia J , Bins Adriaan D
Published: July 2023

Background

Ongoing research in the field of both localized, locally advanced and metastatic renal cell carcinoma has resulted in the availability of multiple treatment options. Hence, many questions are still unanswered and await further research. A nationwide collaborative registry allows to collect corresponding data. For this purpose, the Dutch PROspective Renal Cell Carcinoma cohort (PRO-RCC) has been founded, for the prospective collection of long-term clinical data, patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) and patient reported experience measures (PREMs).

Methods

PRO-RCC is designed as a multicenter cohort for all Dutch patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Recruitment will start in the Netherlands in 2023. Importantly, participants may also consent to participation in a ‘Trial within cohorts’ studies (TwiCs). The TwiCs design provides a method to perform (randomized) interventional studies within the registry. The clinical data collection is embedded in the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR). Next to the standardly available data on RCC, additional clinical data will be collected. PROMS entail Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL), symptom monitoring with optional ecological momentary assessment (EMA) of pain and fatigue, and optional return to work- and/or nutrition questionnaires. PREMS entail satisfaction with care. Both PROMS and PREMS are collected through the PROFILES registry and are accessible for the patient and the treating physician.

Trial registration

Ethical board approval has been obtained (2021_218) and the study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05326620).

Discussion

PRO-RCC is a nationwide long-term cohort for the collection of real-world clinical data, PROMS and PREMS. By facilitating an infrastructure for the collection of prospective data on RCC, PRO-RCC will contribute to observational research in a real-world study population and prove effectiveness in daily clinical practice. The infrastructure of this cohort also enables that interventional studies can be conducted with the TwiCs design, without the disadvantages of classic RCTs such as slow patient accrual and risk of dropping out after randomization.
Profile of eye-related emergency department visits in Ontario – a Canadian perspective
Authors: Nanji Keean , Gulamhusein Husayn , Jindani Yasmin , Hamilton David , Sabri Kourosh
Published: July 2023

Background

Understanding the epidemiology of ophthalmic presentations to emergency departments can help guide resource allocation, medical education programs, and optimize the patient experience. The purpose of this investigation was to summarize and assess the urgency of ophthalmic presentations in emergency departments (EDs) in Ontario, Canada over a 5-year period.

Methods

This was a multicentered retrospective review of all patient presentations to EDs in Ontario between January 1st, 2012, to December 31st, 2017. Presentations were included if patients had an ophthalmic related ICD-10 code as their primary problem prompting ED presentation.

Results

A total of 774,057 patients patient presentations were included across the pediatric (149,679 patients) and adult (624,378 patients) cohorts. The mean (SD) age at presentation was 47.4 (17.9) years, and 6.54 (5.20) in the adult and pediatric cohorts respectively. Of the total presentations, 256,776 (33.1%) were due to a trauma related presentation. Problems pertaining to Cornea and External disease were the most common reason for presentation (51.0% of cases). Of all presentations, 34.1% were classified as either ‘emergent’ or ‘likely emergent’; the remaining presentations were either ‘non-emergent’ (39.5%) or the urgency ‘could not be determined’ (26.4%). The three most frequent presentations were due to conjunctivitis (121,175 cases or 15.7%), ocular foreign bodies (104,322 cases or 13.5%), and corneal / conjunctival abrasions (94,554 cases of 12.2%).

Conclusions

This investigation summarizes all ophthalmic presentations to EDs in Ontario, Canada over a 5-year period. The results of this investigation can help guide ophthalmic related knowledge translation. Additionally, these results highlight that in Canadian EDs, a significant proportion of ophthalmic presentations are nonurgent; systems level efforts to improve access for eye-related complaints to healthcare professionals outside of the ED can help facilitate improved resource allocation. As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, optimising the structure of patient care access is crucial to help alleviate the pressure from overburdened EDs while effectively meeting patient healthcare needs.
Hematologic tests and their association with the severity of COVID-19 and periodontitis in hospitalized patients: a case–control study
Authors: Moradi Haghgoo Janet , Torkzaban Parviz , Farhadian Maryam , Rabienejad Nazli , Moosavi Sedeh Sayed Ali
Published: July 2023

Background

The presence of comorbidities, especially those with a chronic inflammatory nature such as periodontitis, can facilitate COVID-19 progression toward more severe forms. Both of these diseases can affect systemic health and alter hematological test results. In this study, we decided to investigate COVID-19 and periodontitis’ possible interaction with these alterations.

Methods

Hospitalized patients with a definitive diagnosis of COVID-19 were included. Controls had mild to moderate COVID-19, while cases had severe to critical COVID-19. Periodontal examination was done for each patient. Relevant medical and hematological data were extracted from patient’s hospital files.

Results

A total of 122 patients entered the final analysis. The minimum white blood cell counts were associated with the severity of periodontitis. The interaction between periodontitis and COVID-19 was associated with increased minimum white blood cell counts and decreased platelet counts. COVID-19 severity was associated with increased venous oxygen saturation, prothrombin time, the maximum partial thromboplastin time, the maximum and average urea, the maximum creatinine, the maximum potassium, and lactate dehydrogenase, and decreased sodium levels.

Conclusions

Results of this study showed that several blood parameters were associated with periodontitis, COVID-19, or the interaction between them.
Home-based upper limb stroke rehabilitation mechatronics: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Forbrigger Shane , DePaul Vincent G. , Davies T. Claire , Morin Evelyn , Hashtrudi-Zaad Keyvan
Published: July 2023

Interest in home-based stroke rehabilitation mechatronics, which includes both robots and sensor mechanisms, has increased over the past 12 years. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the existing lack of access to rehabilitation for stroke survivors post-discharge. Home-based stroke rehabilitation devices could improve access to rehabilitation for stroke survivors, but the home environment presents unique challenges compared to clinics. The present study undertakes a scoping review of designs for at-home upper limb stroke rehabilitation mechatronic devices to identify important design principles and areas for improvement. Online databases were used to identify papers published 2010–2021 describing novel rehabilitation device designs, from which 59 publications were selected describing 38 unique designs. The devices were categorized and listed according to their target anatomy, possible therapy tasks, structure, and features. Twenty-two devices targeted proximal (shoulder and elbow) anatomy, 13 targeted distal (wrist and hand) anatomy, and three targeted the whole arm and hand. Devices with a greater number of actuators in the design were more expensive, with a small number of devices using a mix of actuated and unactuated degrees of freedom to target more complex anatomy while reducing the cost. Twenty-six of the device designs did not specify their target users’ function or impairment, nor did they specify a target therapy activity, task, or exercise. Twenty-three of the devices were capable of reaching tasks, 6 of which included grasping capabilities. Compliant structures were the most common approach of including safety features in the design. Only three devices were designed to detect compensation, or undesirable posture, during therapy activities. Six of the 38 device designs mention consulting stakeholders during the design process, only two of which consulted patients specifically. Without stakeholder involvement, these designs risk being disconnected from user needs and rehabilitation best practices. Devices that combine actuated and unactuated degrees of freedom allow a greater variety and complexity of tasks while not significantly increasing their cost. Future home-based upper limb stroke rehabilitation mechatronic designs should provide information on patient posture during task execution, design with specific patient capabilities and needs in mind, and clearly link the features of the design to users’ needs.
Comprehensive analysis of m6A regulators characterized by the immune microenvironment in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Han Xu , Ji Guang , Wang Ning , Yi Le , Mao Yafei , Deng Jinliang , Wu Hongran , Ma Shaojuan , Han Jingzhe , Bu Yi , Fang Pingping , Liu Juyi , Sun Fanzhe , Song Xueqin
Published: July 2023

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked, incurable, degenerative neuromuscular disease that is exacerbated by secondary inflammation. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most common base modification of RNA, has pleiotropic immunomodulatory effects in many diseases. However, the role of m6A modification in the immune microenvironment of DMD remains elusive.

Methods

Our study retrospectively analyzed the expression data of 56 muscle tissues from DMD patients and 26 from non-muscular dystrophy individuals. Based on single sample gene set enrichment analysis, immune cells infiltration was identified and the result was validated by flow cytometry analysis and immunohistochemical staining. Then, we described the features of genetic variation in 26 m6A regulators and explored their relationship with the immune mircoenvironment of DMD patients through a series of bioinformatical analysis. At last, we determined subtypes of DMD patients by unsupervised clustering analysis and characterized the molecular and immune characteristics in different subgroups.

Results

DMD patients have a sophisticated immune microenvironment that is significantly different from non-DMD controls. Numerous m6A regulators were aberrantly expressed in the muscle tissues of DMD and inversely related to most muscle-infiltrating immune cell types and immune response-related signaling pathways. A diagnostic model involving seven m6A regulators was established using LASSO. Furthermore, we determined three m6A modification patterns (cluster A/B/C) with distinct immune microenvironmental characteristics.

Conclusion

In summary, our study demonstrated that m6A regulators are intimately linked to the immune microenvironment of muscle tissues in DMD. These findings may facilitate a better understanding of the immunomodulatory mechanisms in DMD and provide novel strategies for the treatment.
Continuous renal replacement therapy with the adsorptive oXiris filter may be associated with the lower 28-day mortality in sepsis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Guizhong , He Yuxuan , Guo Qingling , Zhao Ying , He Jie , Chen Yue , Chen Weijia , Zhou Yi , Peng Zichong , Deng Ke , Guan Jianbin , Xie Wenting , Chang Ping , Liu Zhanguo
Published: July 2023

Background

The oXiris is a novel filter for continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) featuring an adsorption coating to adsorb endotoxins and remove inflammatory mediators. Given that no consensus has been reached on its potential benefits in treating sepsis, a meta-analysis was conducted to assess its impact on the clinical outcomes of this patient population.

Methods

Eleven databases were retrieved to find relevant observational studies and randomized controlled trials. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool were used to assess the quality of the included studies. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) process was employed to assess the certainty of evidence. The 28-day mortality was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were 7-, 14-, and 90-day mortality, length of intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stay, ICU and hospital mortality, norepinephrine (NE) dose, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and lactate levels, and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score.

Results

The meta-analysis, pooling data from 14 studies, involving 695 patients, showed significant reductions in 28-day mortality [odds ratio (OR) 0.53; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.36–0.77, p = 0.001] and length of ICU stay [weighted mean difference (WMD) − 1.91; 95% CI − 2.56 to − 1.26, p < 0.001)] in patients with sepsis using the oXiris filter compared to other filters. Besides, the SOFA score, NE dose, IL-6 and lactate levels, and 7- and 14-day mortalities were lower in the oXiris group. However, the 90-day mortality, ICU and hospital mortality, and length of hospital stay were comparable. The quality assessment of the ten observational studies indicated intermediate to high quality (average Newcastle–Ottawa score: 7.8). However, all four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) had an unclear risk of bias. The evidence for all outcomes had a low or very low level of certainty because the original study design was mainly observational studies and the RCTs included had an unclear risk of bias and a small sample size.

Conclusion

The treatment with the oXiris filter during CRRT in sepsis patients may be associated with lower 28-, 7-, and 14-day mortalities, lactate levels, SOFA score, NE dose, and shorter length of ICU stay. However, due to the low or very low quality of evidence, the effectiveness of oXiris filters was still uncertain. Besides, no significant difference was observed for the 90-day mortality, ICU and hospital mortality, and length of hospital stay.
Biosynthesis approach of copper nanoparticles, physicochemical characterization, cefixime wastewater treatment, and antibacterial activities
Authors: Hassan Esraa , Gahlan Ahmed A. , Gouda Gamal A.
Published: July 2023

The aim of this paper is the green synthesis of copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) via Quinoa seed extract. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirmed the production of the pure crystalline face center cubic system of the Cu NPs with an average crystallite size of 8.41 nm. Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis confirmed the capping and stabilization of the Cu NPs bioreduction process. UV visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis). surface plasmon resonance revealed the absorption peak at 324 nm with an energy bandgap of 3.47 eV. Electrical conductivity was conducted assuring the semiconductor nature of the biosynthesized Cu NPs. Morphological analysis was investigated confirming the nano-characteristic properties of the Cu NPs as polycrystalline cubic agglomerated shapes in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis also was used to assess the cubic shapes at a particle size of 15.1 ± 8.3 nm and a crystallinity index about equal to 2.0. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX) was conducted to investigate the elemental composition of the Cu NPs. As a potential utility of the biosynthesized Cu NPs as nano adsorbents to the removal of the Cefixime (Xim) from the pharmaceutical wastewater; adsorption studies and process parameters were being investigated. The following strategic methodology for maximum Xim removal was conducted to be solution pH 4, Cu NPs dosage 30 mg, Xim concentration 100 mg/L, and absolute temperature 313 K. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity was 122.9 mg/g according to the Langmuir isothermal model, and the kinetic mechanism was pseudo-second-order. Thermodynamic parameters also were derived as spontaneous chemisorption endothermic processes. Antibacterial activity of the Xim and Xim@Cu NPs was investigated confirming they are highly potent against each Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterium.
Impact of high intensity interval exercise with and without heat stress on cardiovascular and aerobic performance: a pilot study
Authors: Matias Alexs A. , Albin Isabelle F. , Glickman Leah , Califano Peter A. , Faller Justin M. , Layec Gwenael , Ives Stephen J.
Published: July 2023

Background

Heat stress during aerobic exercise training may offer an additional stimulus to improve cardiovascular function and performance in a cool-temperate environment. However, there is a paucity of information on the additive effects of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) and acute heat stress. We aimed to determine the effects of HIIE in combination with acute heat stress on cardiovascular function and exercise performance.

Methods

Twelve active (peak O2 consumption [VO2peak]: 47 ± 8 ml·O2/min/kg) young adults were counterbalanced to six sessions of HIIE in hot (HIIE-H, 30 ± 1 °C, 50 ± 5% relative humidity [RH]) or temperate conditions (HIIE-T, 20 ± 2 °C, 15 ± 10% RH). Resting heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV), central (cBP) and peripheral blood pressure (pBP), peripheral mean arterial pressure (pMAP), pulse wave velocity (PWV), VO2peak, and 5-km treadmill time-trial were measured pre- and post-training.

Results

Resting HR and HRV were not significantly different between groups. However, expressed as percent change from baseline, cSBP (HIIE-T: + 0.9 ± 3.6 and HIIE-H: -6.6 ± 3.0%, p = 0.03) and pSBP (HIIE-T: -2.0 ± 4.6 and HIIE-H: -8.4 ± 4.7%, p = 0.04) were lower in the heat group. Post-training PWV was also significantly lower in the heat group (HIIE-T: + 0.4% and HIIE-H: -6.3%, p = 0.03). Time-trial performance improved with training when data from both groups were pooled, and estimated VO2peak was not significantly different between groups (HIIE-T: 0.7% and HIIE-H: 6.0%, p = 0.10, Cohen’s d = 1.4).

Conclusions

The addition of acute heat stress to HIIE elicited additive adaptations in only cardiovascular function compared to HIIE alone in active young adults in temperate conditions, thus providing evidence for its effectiveness as a strategy to amplify exercise-induced cardiovascular adaptations.
Clear cell endometrial carcinoma with high microsatellite instability in a complicated pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Weiss Fabian , Kaltofen Till , Kanitz Veronika , Schröder Lennard , Kost Bernd , König Alexander , Delius Maria , Mahner Sven , Alba Alejandre Irene
Published: July 2023

Background

Endometrial carcinomas are the most common female genital malignancies. They are very rare in pregnancy and worldwide less than 60 cases associated with pregnancy are published. No clear cell carcinoma has been described in a pregnancy with a live birth.

Case presentation

We present the course of a 43-year-old Uyghur female patient with the diagnosis of endometrial carcinoma with a deficiency in the DNA mismatch repair system in the pregnancy. The malignancy with clear cell histology was confirmed by biopsy following the delivery via caesarean section due to preterm birth of a fetus with sonographically suspected tetralogy of Fallot. Earlier whole exome sequencing after amniocentesis had shown a heterozygous mutation in the MSH2 gene, which was unlikely to be related to the fetal cardiac defect. The uterine mass was initially deemed an isthmocervical fibroid by ultrasound and was confirmed as stage II endometrial carcinoma. The patient was consequently treated with surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Six months after the adjuvant therapy, re-laparotomy was performed due to ileus symptoms and an ileum metastasis was found. The patient is currently undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy with pembrolizumab.

Conclusion

Rare endometrial carcinoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of uterine masses in pregnant women with risk factors.
Resourcefulness of propylprodigiosin isolated from Brevundimonas olei strain RUN-D1
Authors: Olukanni Olumide D. , Abiola Temitope , Dada Jonathan B. , Dare Peter A. , Ayoade Femi , Olukanni Adedayo T.
Published: July 2023

A novel red-pigmented bacterium was isolated from a water sample collected at Osun River, Ede. Morphological and 16 S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that the bacterium is a strain of Brevundimonas olei, while its red pigment was identified using UV-visible, FTIR and GCMS as a derivative of propylprodigiosin. The maximum absorbance of 534 nm, the FTIR’s 1344 cm− 1 peak of prodigiosin’s methoxyl C-O interaction, and the molecular ions from GCMS confirmed the pigment’s identity. The pigments production was temperature-sensitive (25 °C), lost at > 28 °C, and in the presence of urea and humus. In addition, the pigment turned pink in the presence of hydrocarbons, while its red colour was retained with KCN and Fe2SO4, and enhanced by methylparaben. Furthermore, the pigment is stable in high temperature, salt, and acidic conditions, but changed to yellow in alkaline solution. The pigment, identified as propylprodigiosin (m/z 297), demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activities against clinically important strains of Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC25923), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC9077), Bacillus cereus (ATCC10876), Salmonella typhi (ATCC13311), and Escherichia coli (DSM10974). The ethanol extract has the highest zones of inhibition of 29 ± 3.0, 26 ± 1.2, 22 ± 3.0, 22 ± 1.5, and 20 ± 2.0 mm, respectively. Furthermore, the acetone pigments interacted with cellulose and glucose such that increasing glucose concentrations showed linearity at 425 nm. Finally, the fastness of the pigments to fabrics was excellent, with percentage fadedness of 0 and − 43% light and washing tests, respectively, in the presence of Fe2SO4 as the mordant. The antibacterial nature of prodigiosin solutions and their good textile fastness to fabrics could be essential in manufacturing antiseptic materials such as bandages, hospital clothing and agricultural applications such as tubers preservation.

Key points
Temporal climate conditions and spatial drought patterns across rangelands in pastoral areas of West Guji and Borana zones, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Dejene Tesfaye , Dalle Gemedo , Woldeamanuel Teshale , Mekuyie Muluken
Published: July 2023

Climate change and its variability adversely impact pastoral livelihoods, and understanding climate variability and its change is important to deduce policy implications for pastoral communities. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate the temporal climate conditions and spatial patterns of drought across the rangelands in pastoral areas of West Guji and Borana Zones, Southern Ethiopia. Temporal climate conditions were performed at the rangeland level, and spatial drought patterns (distributions) were estimated across the sample Kebeles (Kebele is the smallest administrative unit in Ethiopia which works in the Duda rangeland) and Reeras (Reeras refer to the smallest customary administrative unit in the Borana Zonal administration) structures. Station-satellite temperature and rainfall data (38 years from 1981 to 2018) were obtained from the Ethiopian Meteorological Agency. For data analysis, the Mann–Kendall trend test was employed to test rainfall, temperature and drought patterns, while Sen’s slope was used to test their magnitude of change, and coefficient of variation was employed to estimate rainfall and temperature variability. Standardized precipitation index was used to estimate drought event, while inverse distance-weighted method was used to estimate spatial drought patterns. The study reveals very high temporal rainfall variability with notable disparities in the rangelands mainly attributed to climate change. Besides, the study area exhibits high spatial variability of drought signifying agro-ecological characteristics in the rangelands. In the Duda and Gomole rangelands, annual rainfall increased non-significantly by 0.01 and 0.03 mm per annum, respectively. The annual minimum temperature in both Duda and Gomole increased significantly by 0.008 and 0.007 ℃ per year, respectively, albeit the annual maximum temperature in the rangelands decreased non-significantly by 0.02 and 0.009 ℃ per annum. Both rangelands experienced high annual rainfall variability, increasing annual minimum temperature, drought frequency and severity. Therefore, the outcome of the study is believed to be vital for identifying drought hotspot areas in the rangelands and devising strategies that help to reduce drought impacts on pastoral communities in Southern Ethiopia.
Experimental Toughness and Durability Evaluation of FRC Composite Reinforced with Steel–Polyester Fiber Combination
Authors: Christopher Chella Gifta , Gopal Ramesh , Sadasivam Sasivaradhan , Devi Keerthika Esakki A. K. , Dinesh Kumar P.
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the influence of steel and polyester fibers on the mechanical and durability properties of steel–polymer hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (HyFRC) and toughness under indirect tensile loading conditions. Steel and Polyester fibers are used as a single type (FRC) and in combination (HyFRC) in an M45 grade composite with the addition of fly ash and silica fume as a supplementary cementitious material. Steel as a single fiber exhibited a 10% improvement in compressive strength for a 0.75% volume fraction and a maximum of 14% improvement for a 0.5% volume fraction in comparison to plain concrete. The toughness under split tension capacity was enhanced between 26 and 72% for hybrid fibers in comparison with polyester fiber, and it was between 10 and 18% when compared to the steel fiber reinforcement. Water sorpitivity results were improved with the presence of hybrid fiber. Electrical resistivity decreases with the increase in fiber content and the addition of steel fiber in hybrid FRC increases the conductivity value 1.65–2.23 times greater than the control concrete because of the free movement of electrons.
Debaryomyces hansenii supplementation in low fish meal diets promotes growth, modulates microbiota and enhances intestinal condition in juvenile marine fish
Authors: Sanahuja Ignasi , Ruiz Alberto , Firmino Joana P. , Reyes-López Felipe E. , Ortiz-Delgado Juan B. , Vallejos-Vidal Eva , Tort Lluis , Tovar-Ramírez Dariel , Cerezo Isabel M. , Moriñigo Miguel A. , Sarasquete Carmen , Gisbert Enric
Published: July 2023

Background

The development of a sustainable business model with social acceptance, makes necessary to develop new strategies to guarantee the growth, health, and well-being of farmed animals. Debaryomyces hansenii is a yeast species that can be used as a probiotic in aquaculture due to its capacity to i) promote cell proliferation and differentiation, ii) have immunostimulatory effects, iii) modulate gut microbiota, and/or iv) enhance the digestive function. To provide inside into the effects of D. hansenii on juveniles of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) condition, we integrated the evaluation of the main key performance indicators coupled with the integrative analysis of the intestine condition, through histological and microbiota state, and its transcriptomic profiling.

Results

After 70 days of a nutritional trial in which a diet with low levels of fishmeal (7%) was supplemented with 1.1% of D. hansenii (17.2 × 105 CFU), an increase of ca. 12% in somatic growth was observed together with an improvement in feed conversion in fish fed a yeast-supplemented diet. In terms of intestinal condition, this probiotic modulated gut microbiota without affecting the intestine cell organization, whereas an increase in the staining intensity of mucins rich in carboxylated and weakly sulphated glycoconjugates coupled with changes in the affinity for certain lectins were noted in goblet cells. Changes in microbiota were characterized by the reduction in abundance of several groups of Proteobacteria, especially those characterized as opportunistic groups. The microarrays-based transcriptomic analysis found 232 differential expressed genes in the anterior-mid intestine of S. aurata, that were mostly related to metabolic, antioxidant, immune, and symbiotic processes.

Conclusions

Dietary administration of D. hansenii enhanced somatic growth and improved feed efficiency parameters, results that were coupled to an improvement of intestinal condition as histochemical and transcriptomic tools indicated. This probiotic yeast stimulated host-microbiota interactions without altering the intestinal cell organization nor generating dysbiosis, which demonstrated its safety as a feed additive. At the transcriptomic level, D. hansenii promoted metabolic pathways, mainly protein-related, sphingolipid, and thymidylate pathways, in addition to enhance antioxidant-related intestinal mechanisms, and to regulate sentinel immune processes, potentiating the defensive capacity meanwhile maintaining the homeostatic status of the intestine.
Inferior vena cava distensibility from subcostal and trans-hepatic imaging using both M-mode or artificial intelligence: a prospective study on mechanically ventilated patients
Authors: Sanfilippo Filippo , La Via Luigi , Dezio Veronica , Amelio Paolo , Genoese Giulio , Franchi Federico , Messina Antonio , Robba Chiara , Noto Alberto
Published: July 2023

Background

Variation of inferior vena cava (IVC) is used to predict fluid-responsiveness, but the IVC visualization with standard sagittal approach (SC, subcostal) cannot be always achieved. In such cases, coronal trans-hepatic (TH) window may offer an alternative, but the interchangeability of IVC measurements in SC and TH is not fully established. Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) with automated border detection may be of clinical value but it needs validation.

Methods

Prospective observational validation study in mechanically ventilated patients with pressure-controlled mode. Primary outcome was the IVC distensibility (IVC-DI) in SC and TH imaging, with measurements taken both in M-Mode or with AI software. We calculated mean bias, limits of agreement (LoA), and intra-class correlation (ICC) coefficient.

Results

Thirty-three patients were included. Feasibility rate was 87.9% and 81.8% for SC and TH visualization, respectively. Comparing imaging from the same anatomical site acquired with different modalities (M-Mode vs AI), we found the following IVC-DI differences: (1) SC: mean bias − 3.1%, LoA [− 20.1; 13.9], ICC = 0.65; (2) TH: mean bias − 2.0%, LoA [− 19.3; 15.4], ICC = 0.65. When comparing the results obtained from the same modality but from different sites (SC vs TH), IVC-DI differences were: (3) M-Mode: mean bias 1.1%, LoA [− 6.9; 9.1], ICC = 0.54; (4) AI: mean bias 2.0%, LoA [− 25.7; 29.7], ICC = 0.32.

Conclusions

In patients mechanically ventilated, AI software shows good accuracy (modest overestimation) and moderate correlation as compared to M-mode assessment of IVC-DI, both for SC and TH windows. However, precision seems suboptimal with wide LoA. The comparison of M-Mode or AI between different sites yields similar results but with weaker correlation.

Trial registration Reference protocol: 53/2022/PO, approved on 21/03/2022
A pigmentary manifestation associated with PPP2R5D-related neurodevelopmental disorder: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Robichaud Philippe Pierre , Bouhamdani Nadia , Girouard Eugénie , Biden Emily , Ben Amor Mouna
Published: July 2023

Background

The protein phosphatase 2 (PP2A) is one of the major serine/threonine phosphatases in humans. The most frequently reported pathogenic PP2A variants have been identified in PPP2R5D, encoding the regulatory subunit B’ delta, and are known to cause intellectual developmental disorder autosomal dominant 35 (MRD35).

Case presentation

Herein, we describe a unique case of a patient with a heterozygous pathogenic variant, c.592G>A/p.(Glu198Lys) in the PPP2R5D gene which was associated with hyperpigmented skin lesions arising from increased melanin production, known as Café-au-lait macules (CALMs). To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a PPP2R5D-related neurodevelopmental disorder associated with CALMs.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the documentation and reporting of CALMs when associated with one or more physical and/or neurodevelopmental findings are of utmost importance as they could be indicative of an underreported phenotype and may extend the phenotypic spectrum of MRD35.
Nutrient composition, antioxidant properties, and sensory characteristics of instant Kunu from pearl millet supplemented with African locust bean pulp
Authors: Olatoye Kazeem Koledoye , Irondi Emmanuel Anyachukwu , Awoyale Wasiu , Adeyemo Oluwatobi Ibukun
Published: July 2023

Kunu is a millet-based, non-alcoholic, and non-carbonated energy beverage commonly consumed in the northern part of Nigeria. The nutrients composition, antioxidant properties, and sensory characteristics of instant kunu beverage made from pearl millet supplemented with African locus bean pulp (ALBP) were evaluated in this study. Instant kunu beverage was produced with 5–25% ALBP replacement for millet and freeze-dried. A control sample was produced from 100% millet. The chemical (proximate, vitamins, minerals) and phytochemical (total phenol, flavonoids, tannin, saponin, and phytates) contents and antioxidant activities, as well as the sensory properties of the beverage, were evaluated, using standard methods. The crude fiber (3.14–4.07%), total ash (1.77–3.40%), phosphorus (12.45–15.00 mg/100 g, potassium (12.00–12.55 mg/100 g), vitamin A (0.34–1.35%), and phytochemical contents (except phytate) increased significantly as the ALBP supplementation level increased in the beverage. The ranges of phenolic, flavonoid, saponin, tannin, and phytate were 0.71–0.90, 0.35–0.86, 0.02–0.34, 0.02–0.34, and 0.83–0.62 mg/g, respectively. The antioxidant activities of the beverage also increased as the ALBP level in the beverage increased. All the beverage samples were generally accepted by the panelists, with an overall acceptability of 5.17 to 6.73. Hence, the instant kunu beverage made from pearl millet supplemented with African locus bean pulp may serve as a dietary source of essential nutrients and antioxidants for human nutrition.
Understanding the environmental impacts of facemasks: a review on the facemask industry and existing life cycle assessment studies
Authors: Ajaj Rahaf , Al Dweik Rania , Syed Ali Shafeeq Ahmed , Stietiya Mohammed Hashem
Published: July 2023

The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has caused socioeconomic, physical, mental, and environmental upheaval. Personal protective equipment, such as face masks, was mandatory to curb the spread of the virus. The unexpected increase in demand for face masks resulted in an alarming increase in plastic waste globally. The non-biodegradable nature of the raw materials and the potential threat of microplastic pollution amplify the problem. This puts a lot of pressure on policymakers and the global supply chain to develop long-term plans to make face masks less harmful. By reviewing existing life cycle assessment studies, this study aims to provide an overview on how sustainable face masks are. Various challenges in the facemask industry such as microplastic pollution and waste management are discussed. A critical analysis on the various process hotspots is also conducted. Recommendations from this study can motivate focused research into an important field and enable the transitions towards a sustainable facemask industry.
Psychological distress among primary health care workers during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in Mansoura, Egypt
Authors: Abdu Shymaa Mamdouh Mohamed , Mohamed Sahar , El-Gilany Abdel-hady
Published: July 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic is putting a lot of pressure on primary healthcare (PHC) workers globally. The study aimed to estimate the level of psychological distress among PHC workers during the current COVID-19 pandemic and its associated factors in Mansoura, Egypt.

Methods

A cross-sectional study on 415 PHC workers was implemented using self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire included socio-demographic, work-related data, and Arabic COVID-19 Psychological Distress Scale. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify significant predictors of psychological distress.

Results

More than half (53.3%) of PHC workers had high psychological distress. Multiple logistic regression showed that the significant predictors of high distress level were Para-medical PHC staff (AOR = 1.6; 95% CI 1.0–2.6), smoking (AOR = 3.6; 95% CI 1.4–9.5), having or suspected corona infection (AOR = 3.4; 95% CI 1.5–7.8), afraid from contracting corona (AOR = 7.4; 95% CI 3.6–15.3), worry about family (AOR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.0–6.9), worry at the beginning of the pandemic (AOR = 4.1; 95% CI 2.1–8.4), non-practice of sport (AOR = 1.8; 95% CI 1.1–2.9), and non-training to deal with corona cases (AOR = 1.9; 95% CI 1.1–3.3).

Conclusions

High psychological distress level was observed among PHC workers. Psychological support and timely programs should be planned to alleviate stress among PHC workers especially at-risk groups during the current pandemic.
Prognostic factors of pulmonary exacerbations severity in pediatric bronchiectasis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ali Heba A. , Salem Mona A. , Abdelwahad Marwa A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Pulmonary exacerbations have been found to negatively impact the natural course of pediatric bronchiectasis. However, prognostic factors that might predict the severity of exacerbations are poorly identified. Therefore, this study was designed to identify the best prognostic factors associated with pulmonary exacerbations severity in pediatric bronchiectasis.

Results

This retrospective cohort study involved fifty stable bronchiectasis patients including cystic fibrosis (CF) and non-CF bronchiectasis under the age of 18 years. The pulmonary exacerbations during the previous year were reviewed among the studied patients determining their relations with bacterial colonization, inflammatory markers, lung function, and severity scores. The severity of pulmonary exacerbations was directly related to the number of hospitals and ICU admissions (P < 0.001, P < 0.001), exacerbations frequency (P < 0.001), SPEX score (P = 0.002), inflammatory markers as sputum neutrophil elastase (P < 0.001), C-reactive protein (CRP) (P < 0.001), Respiratory and Systemic Symptoms Questionnaire (RSSQ) (P < 0.001), Acute Respiratory Illness Checklist (ARIC) (P < 0.001), cough severity score (P < 0.001), and bronchiectasis severity index (BSI) (P = 0.009) in all bronchiectasis patients. Additional significant relations were found between exacerbations severity with pseudomonas colonization and FACED score (P = 0.002, P = 0.010) among CF patients and with lower body mass index (BMI) and older age (P = 0.035, P < 0.001) among non-CF bronchiectasis patients respectively.

Conclusions

Pulmonary exacerbations are prevalent among both pediatric CF and non-CF bronchiectasis patients. In this population, the best prognostic factors for pulmonary exacerbation severity were the frequency of ICU admissions and BSI more than 11 identifying their importance during bronchiectasis assessment.
An interesting presentation of a foreign body in the esophagus: a case report of awake central apnea
Authors: Çetin Mehmet , Kocaöz Fazilet Şahin
Published: July 2023

Background

Foreign body in the esophagus is most commonly observed at the cervical esophagus level and is often detected in pediatric patients. Esophagoscopy is the definitive diagnosis and treatment instrument in foreign body ingestion, and the procedure should not be delayed to avoid serious complications such as late tracheoesophageal fistula and perforation. While sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, and hypersalivation are the main complaints in almost all patients, respiratory symptoms due to tracheal compression can also be observed.

Case presentation

We present our 5-year-old patient who presented with the complaint of foreign body ingestion, dysphagia, and hypersalivation due to foreign body in the cervical esophagus, and isolated central awake apnea, which is not seen in the literature. The patient, who had central awake apnea in the supine position, was completely normal after the removal of the foreign body.

Conclusions

Foreign bodies in the esophagus, which are not more urgent than foreign bodies in the respiratory tract, can sometimes threaten life through central apnea in the acute process, and one should be alert.
Cardiac cavernous hemangioma with high fluorodeoxyglucose uptake on preoperative positron emission tomography/computed tomography: a case report
Authors: Kobayashi Takuma , Numata Satoshi , Hohri Yu , Kawajiri Hidetake , Yaku Hitoshi
Published: July 2023

Background

Reports on cardiac hemangioma detection by F-18-deoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) are extremely rare.

Case presentation

Here we describe a case of a 61-year-old man with hemangioma. CT revealed a tumor with a size of 60 mm. Magnetic resonance imaging showed high signal intensity on T2-weighted images. Hemangioma was initially suspected. However, PET/CT showed high FDG absorption, which led us to suspect a malignant tumor. The tumor was resected, and a cavernous hemangioma diagnosis was made by postoperative histopathological examination.

Conclusions

This case may serve as a reference for clinicians to become more aware of the potential application of FDG PET/CT for cardiac hemangioma detection.