bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Programmed Death Cell Ligand-1 Expression in Lymphoepithelioma-like Carcinoma of the Bladder: A Case Report
Authors: Teoman Ahmet Serdar , Kucuk Hatice , Teoman Gizem
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the bladder (LELC-B)
is a rare variant of bladder tumors and until today only 145 cases are
reported in the literature. It has a worse prognosis and survival rates
in comparison with papillary muscle invasive tumors. However, general
treatment options including radical cystectomy, chemotherapy and
radiotherapy; discovery of the programmed death cell ligand-1 (PDL-1)
expression for LELC-B recently, may lead a novel immunohistochemical
diagnostic method and PDL-1 immunostaining may increase detection of
this variant. Case Presentation: A 72-year-old male patient with lower
urinary tract symptoms is diagnosed as bladder tumor with imaging
modalities. After transurethral resection of this bladder tumor,
immunopathological diagnose was muscle invasive bladder tumor
predominantly lymphepithelioma like carcinoma of the bladder. PDL-1
immunostaining was also highly positive(>%50).
Discussion/Conclusion: Lymphoepithelioma-like cancer of bladder is an
undifferantiated aggressive rare variant of bladder cancers. Its
identifiability may increase with detection of PDL-1 expression. In the
future, that might pave a road to targeted immunotherapies as an
alternative for selected patients.
Colorectal carcinoma in children and adolescents - Case reports and literature review
Authors: Mathey Marina , Pennella Carla , Zubizarreta Pedro
Published: January 2024

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is extremely rare among pediatrics,
particularly before puberty. It usually begins with nonspecific signs
and symptoms, so the index of suspicion is low, consequently, the
diagnosis may be delayed. Reports in the literature indicate that poor
prognostic factors are more common in children than in adults, resulting
in a worse outcome. Our objective is to report clinical profile,
treatment and prognosis of CRC in children and adolescents admitted in
our institution, and to perform a systematic review of reports in the
bibliography.
PARANASAL SINUS VOLUMES AND CHRONIC OTITIS MEDIA: ANY RELATION?
Authors: Çaytemel Berkay , Doruk Can , Kara Hakan , Polat Beldan
Published: January 2024

Abstract: Objective: Investigate the relationship between the mastoid
pneumatization and the paranasal sinus volumes in patients with
unilateral chronic otitis media (COM) and make a contribution to
understanding of COM etiopathogenesis. Methods:101 patients were divided
into two groups: group 1, COM with isolated tympanic membrane
perforation, consists of 51 patients and group 2, COM with
cholesteatoma/retraction pocket, consists of 50 patients. Mastoid and
sinus volumes were evaluated on preoperative temporal bone
High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT). Results: Sphenoid sinus
volumes were significantly lower at the diseased side (p<
0.05), while there is no statistically difference in the maxillary and
frontal sinus volumes. Also, the sphenoid sinus volumes significantly
lower at the side of the ear with sclerotic mastoid than others
(p<0.001). Conclusions: Long-standing childhood COM might
restrict to pneumatization of the same sided sphenoid sinus considering
the delayed development of the sphenoid sinus compared with other
sinuses.
TRPV1 modulation of immune response in metastatic breast carcinoma: Enhanced inflammatory response may hinder therapeutic potentials of TRPV1 agonists
Authors: Erin Nuray , Akman Muhlis , Haksever Seren
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1
(TRPV1) ion channels enhance cytotoxic immune response and may have
therapeutic potential in cancer treatment. Hence, we here determined how
activation of TRPV1 alters immune response of tumor-bearing mice.
Experimental Approach: Three different metastatic subset of 4T1 breast
carcinoma cells were used to induce tumors in Balb-c mice. Mix leukocyte
cultures (MLCs) using spleens and draining lymph nodes were prepared and
stimulated with various challenges. Effects of four different TRPV1
agonists, antagonist (AMG9810) and Gambogic Amide (GA), a TrkA agonist
that sensitizes TRPV1, on secreted levels of cytokines were determined.
Results: MLCs of tumor-bearing mice secreted markedly higher levels of
IL-6 and lower levels of IFN-γ compared to control mice. We observed
differential effects of TRPV1 agonists, antagonist and GA in control and
mice bearing different subset of metastatic cells. TRPV1 and TrkA
agonists increased IFN–γ and IL-17 secretion in control mice while they
markedly increased IL-6 secretion and suppressed IFN–γ secretion in
tumor-bearing mice. Unexpectedly, AMG9810 acted as an inverse agonist
and did not antagonize the effects of TRPV1 agonists and GA did not
sensitize TRPV1 channels. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate
constitutive activity of TRPV1 in immune cells, suggesting cross
activation. Excessive chronic activation of TRPV1 in immune cells in the
presence of metastatic breast carcinoma may have detrimental effects.
Unexpected findings further document that a drug can have multiple
intrinsic activities and depending on surrounding factors can act on the
same receptor as an agonist, antagonist or inverse agonist.
A role for IL-15 and sMAdCAM in Covid19 associated cellular immune pathology
Authors: Singh Amit Kumar , Kasarpalkar Nandini , Bhowmick Shilpa , Paradkar Gaurav , Talreja Mayur , Shah Karan , Tiwari Abhishekh , Palav Harsha , Kaginkar Snehal , Kulkarni Rajiv , Patil Ashwini , Kalsurkar Varsha , Agrawal Sachee , Shastri Jayanthi , Dere Rajesh , Mahale Smita , Bharmal Ramesh , Bhor Vikrant , Patel Vainav
Published: January 2024

Immune cell dysregulation and lymphopenia characterize COVID-19
pathology in moderate to severe disease. While underlying inflammatory
factors have been extensively studied, homeostatic and mucosal migratory
signatures remain largely unexplored as causative factors. In this study
we evaluated the association of circulating IL-6, soluble mucosal
addressin cell adhesion molecule (sMAdCAM) and IL-15 with cellular
dysfunction characterizing mild and hypoxemic stages of COVID-19. A
cohort of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals (n=125) at various stages of
disease progression together with healthy controls (n=16) were recruited
from COVID Care Centres (CCCs) across Mumbai, India. Multiparametric
flow cytometry was used to perform in-depth immune subset
characterization and to measure plasma IL-6 levels. sMAdCAM, IL-15
levels were quantified using ELISA. Distinct depletion profiles, with
relative sparing of CD8 effector memory and CD4+ regulatory T cells were
observed in hypoxemic disease within the lymphocyte compartment. An
apparent increase in the frequency of intermediate monocytes
characterized both mild as well as hypoxemic disease. IL-6 levels
inversely correlated with those of sMAdCAM and both markers showed
converse associations with observed lympho-depletion suggesting opposing
roles in pathogenesis. Interestingly, IL-15, a key cytokine involved in
lymphocyte activation and homeostasis, was detected in symptomatic
individuals but not in healthy controls or asymptomatic cases. Further,
negative association of plasma IL-15 with depleted T, B and NK subsets
suggested a compensatory production of this cytokine in response to the
profound lymphopenia. Finally, higher levels of plasma IL-15 and IL-6,
but not sMAdCAM, were associated with longer duration of
hospitalization.
Threadfin porgy (Evynnis cardinalis) haplotype pattern and genetic structure in Beibu Gulf, South China Sea
Authors: Xu Lei , Wang Xuehui , Wang Liang , Ning Jiajia , Li Yafang , Huang Delian , Liu Shuangshuang , Du Feiyan
Published: January 2024

Threadfin porgy (Evynnis cardinalis) is an important commercial
fishing target of bottom trawl fisheries in the northern South China
Sea. It is mainly threatened by overexploitation and listed as
endangered in the IUCN Red List. To investigate E. cardinalis
population demographic history and genetic structure, fragments of the
mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene were sequenced for 162
individuals collected from Beibu Gulf, South China Sea. In total, 44
different haplotypes were identified, and the dominant widespread
haplotype was found in all 11 sampling sites. Across the dataset,
nucleotide diversity was low but haplotype diversity was high. Low
pairwise comparisons of ΦST and high gene flow between all sampling
sites revealed a genetically homogeneous population structure in Beibu
Gulf, which indicated a single panmictic stock of E. cardinalis in this
area. The star-like haplotype network, unimodal mismatch distribution,
and significantly negative Tajima’s D and Fu’s Fs values indicated
recent population demographic expansion of E. cardinalis. The mismatch
distribution and Bayesian skyline plot results indicated that E.
cardinalis from Beibu Gulf experienced colonization and demographic
expansion during the late Pleistocene due to sea level fluctuations.
: Is the Treadmill Test Safe When Performed Using a Surgical Mask and Are Its Results Reliable In Terms Of Diagnosis?
Authors: Aydın Fatih
Published: January 2024

Objective: Mask use has a substantial role in reducing the spread of
COVID-19 in confined spaces. However, the use of masks is controversial
in cases where intense effort is required, such as the treadmill
exercise test. Since the majority of subjects undergoing this test are
elderly individuals with comorbidities, the safety and reliability of
the test are critical matters that must be elucidated in the
post-COVID-19 era. In this study, the safety of the treadmill exercise
test performed using a mask and the diagnostic reliability of the test
were questioned. Method: In our clinic, before March 11, 2020, treadmill
exercise tests were performed without a mask; whereas, after this date,
patients were supplied with a standard surgical mask during the test.
These two groups were compared with regard to various characteristics to
assess diagnostic reliability and safety. Results: The diagnostic
reliability and the safety of the stress test performed with a mask was
found to be similar to that of tests performed without a mask. However,
we noted that shortness of breath was more common in the mask-wearing
group. Conclusion: The treadmill exercise test performed by wearing
surgical masks is safe and its results are reliable for diagnosis.
Cubic B-spline Galerkin Finite Element Method for the Generalized Reaction Diffusion Equation with Delay
Authors: Lubo Gemeda Tolessa , Duressa Gemechis
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a generalized reaction diffusion equation with delay has
been numerically solved by a cubic Bspline Galerkin finite element
method. The full discrete numerical process is based on trapezoidal
rule. To demonstrate the efficiency of the method, numerical
illustrations have been given. Graphs are also displayed in support of
the numerical results. Both the theoretical and computational rate of
convergence of the numerical method have been examined and found to be
in agreement. As it can be observed from the numerical results given in
tables and graphs, the proposed method approximates the exact solution
very well. The accuracy of numerical scheme is confirmed by computing L2
and L∞ error norms
INtra-procedural ultraSound Imaging for DEtermination of atrial wall thickness and acute tissue changes after isolation of the Pulmonary Veins with radiofrequency, cryoballoon or laser balloon energy: the INSIDE PVs Study
Authors: Leo Milena , Maria Giovanni Luigi De , Gala Andre Briosa e , Pope Michael , Banerjee Abhirup , Kelion Andrew , Pedersen Michala , Rajappan Kim , Ginks Matthew , Bashir Yaver , Hunter Ross , Betts Tim
Published: January 2024

Introduction. Preliminary data in human suggest that both Intracardiac
echocardiography (ICE) and Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) can be used
for real-time information on the left atrial (LA) wall thickness and on
the acute tissue changes produced by energy delivery. This pilot study
was conducted to compare ICE and IVUS for real-time LA wall imaging and
assessment of acute tissue changes produced by radiofrequency (RF), cryo
and laser catheter ablation. Methods Patients scheduled for RF,
cryoballoon or laser balloon Pulmonary Vein Isolation (PVI) catheter
ablation were enrolled. Each pulmonary vein (PV) was imaged immediately
before and after ablation with either ICE or IVUS. The performance of
ICE and IVUS for imaging were compared. Pre- and post-ablation
measurements (lumen and vessel diameters, areas and sphericity indexes,
wall thickness and muscular sleeve thickness) were taken at the level of
each PV ostium. Results A total of 48 PVs in 12 patients were imaged
before and after ablation. Compared to IVUS, ICE showed higher imaging
quality and inter-observer reproducibility of the PV measurements
obtained. Acute wall thickening suggestive of oedema was observed after
RF treatment (p = 0.003) and laser treatment (p = 0.003) but not after
cryoablation (p = 0.69). Conclusions Our pilot study suggests that ICE
is preferable to IVUS for LA wall thickness imaging at the LA-PV
junctions during ablation. Ablation causes acute wall thickening when
using RF or laser energy, but not cryoenergy delivery. Larger studies
are needed to confirm these preliminary findings.
Generalised Curvature Equations in Higher Dimensions
Authors: eker serhan , Değirmenci Nedim
Published: January 2024

In this paper we present two equivalent interpretations of curvature
equation for higher dimensional Seiberg-Witten equations. To achieve
this we use the generalized self-duality concept of a 2-form in various
dimensions.
Urinary exosomal vitronectin as a biomarker in predicting vesicoureteral reflux in neurogenic bladder patients with spinal cord injury
Authors: Li Jue , Zeng Chunxian , Chen Ling , Zhao Chun , Huang Ying , Cai wenzhi
Published: January 2024

Objective: Neurogenic bladder is an important complication of urinary
tract dysfunction after spinal cord injury. Urodynamic and urography to
guide therapy remains invasive and complicated. Therefore, this research
is to find potential non-invasive biomarkers from urinary exosomes to
predict diagnosis and guide prognosis in patients with spinal cord
injury. Methods: Urinary exosomes were isolated and proteome profile was
analyzed by mass spectrometry. Transmission electron microscopy and
nanoparticle tracking analysis confirmed the size and morphology
characteristic of urinary exosomes. In addition, bioinformatics analysis
and parallel reaction monitoring were used for screening candidate
biomarkers. Selected biomarkers were validated by Western blot and
ELISA. Results: Mass spectrometry identified 134 up-regulated proteins
and 99 down-regulated proteins between VUR and non-VUR groups. 18
candidate proteins were selected for PRM validation, but only VTN and
COL1A1 showed significant differences. In the validation experiment by
western blot and ELISA, VTN was exclusively highly expressed in VUR
patients compared with non-VUR patients. However, the ELISA result of
COL1A1 showed no statistical difference in a bigger sample size.
Furthermore, a receiver operating characteristic curve of ELISA-based
VTN showed an area under the curve of 0.795, and 80% sensitivity at a
threshold set to give 82.9% specificity. Conclusions: Collectively, our
results suggest that VTN in urinary exosomes may be used as a biomarker
to predict the progression and guide the prognosis of neurogenic bladder
disease.
Cytokinin regulates the apical hook development via the coordinated actions of EIN3/EIL1 and PIFs in Arabidopsis
Authors: Aizezi Yalikunjiang , Shu Huazhang , Zhang Linlin , Zhao Hongming , Peng Yang , Lan Hongxia , Xie Yinpeng , Li Jian , Wang Yichuan , Guo Hongwei , Jiang Kai
Published: January 2024

The apical hook is indispensable for protecting the delicate shoot
apical meristem while dicot seedlings emerging from soil after
germination in darkness. The development of apical hook is coordinately
regulated by multiple phytohormones and environmental factors. Yet, a
holistic understanding of the spatial-temporal interactions between
different phytohormones and environmental factors remains to be
achieved. By a chemical genetics method, we identified kinetin riboside,
as a proxy of kinetin, that promotes apical hook development of
Arabidopsis thaliana in a partially ethylene-signaling independent
pathway. Further genetic and biochemical analysis revealed that
cytokinin is able to regulate apical hook development via
post-transcriptional regulation of the PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORs
(PIFs), together with its canonical roles in inducing ethylene
biosynthesis. Dynamic observations of apical hook development processes
showed that ETHYLENE INSENSITVE3 (EIN3) and EIN3-LIKE1 (EIL1) are
necessary for the exaggeration of hook curvature in response to
cytokinin, while PIFs are crucial for the cytokinin-induced maintenance
of hook curvature in darkness. Furthermore, these two families of
transcription factors display divergent roles in light-triggered hook
opening. Our findings unveil that cytokinin integrates ethylene
signaling and light signaling via EIN3/EIL1 and PIFs, respectively, to
dynamically regulate apical hook development during early seedling
development.
Foley catheter tourniquet for uncontrollable extrauterine placental haemorrhage: description of a novel surgical technique.
Authors: Hofmeyr GJ , Majeke Busiwe , Nassali Mercy-Nkuba
Published: January 2024

Haemorrhage from a partially detached extrauterine placenta can be
catastrophic. We describe a novel surgical technique using a Foley’s
catheter tourniquet, applied between the partially detached and attached
portions of the placenta of an irremovable placenta to control blood
loss. It may be left in situ and removed at repeat laparotomy. The
catheter tourniquet has equally shown utility with a removable placenta.
Applied as a temporary tourniquet around structures surrounding the
implantation site, the technique enables placenta removal with minimal
haemorrhage. We report use of this surgical technique with good
outcomes.
Bioinformatics analysis of immune cell infiltration, immune-related genes, and signaling pathways in the blood of allergic rhinitis patients
Authors: ZHOU SUIZI , Zhou Chaozheng , Qiu Qianhui
Published: January 2024

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a chronic inflammatory disease of
the upper respiratory tract, which has an increasing prevalence
worldwide. The aim of this study was to explore the associated immune
cell infiltration and molecular mechanisms of AR based on a
bioinformatics analysis. Methods: GSE43497 and GSE50223 datasets for
whole blood and CD4+ T cells, respectively were downloaded from the Gene
Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differences in AR-associated immune
cell infiltration were analyzed using CIBERSORT. A gene set enrichment
analysis (GSEA) was performed using clusterProfiler software. Results:
There was an upregulation in the proportion of CD8+ T cells, whereas
there was a significant down-regulation of neutrophils in the whole
blood of allergen-treated AR patients compared to diluent-treated
patients. A correlation was identified between immune cells and
immune-related genes. NF-kappa B and Toll-like receptor signaling
pathways were also positively regulated in AR patients following
allergen treatment. CD4+ T cell genes and associated cytokines
significantly differed in allergen-treated AR patients compared to
healthy and diluent-treated AR patients. Conclusion: Our analysis
revealed that T cell receptor signaling pathways and Th1/Th2 cell
differentiation may be involved in the mechanism of AR development. This
study is the first bioinformatic analysis identifying immune cell
infiltration and its underlying mechanism in AR from combined microarray
data and provides novel insight for further research into the molecular
mechanisms of AR.
BETA GLUCOSIDASE IN ENZYME AND PRODRUG CANCER THERAPY
Authors: Girivel Hariharan , Veerichetty Veerabhuvaneshwari
Published: January 2024

β-glucosidases are utilized for the amalgamation of oligosaccharides and
alkyl-glycosides. Oligosaccharides can be utilized as restorative
specialists, indicative devices and development advancing specialist.
They have significant capacities in natural frameworks including
preparation, embryogenesis and cell expansion. Alkyl-glycosides are
non-ionic surfactants with high biodegradability and furthermore have
antimicrobial properties. Consequently, they have likely application in
drug, substance, corrective, food and cleanser enterprises as these can
be hydrolysed by β-glucosidase. Catalysts from the source plants or
different sources might be added to food varieties and refreshments
previously, during, or subsequent to preparing to improve food quality.
Consequently, β-glucosidases with alluring properties might be engaged
for plant reproducing programs, tissue culture and recombinant
innovations to expand their overproduction in transgenic microbial or
plant has and their reactant properties for flavor upgrade and security.
As apparent from past segments, the wide practical ramifications and
modern uses of β-glucosidases make it a promising objective for
contemplates identified with its higher creation, novel protein, better
strength, and so forth In spite of the fact that β-glucosidases are
having colossal mechanical interest yet an appropriate modern
β-glucosidase satisfying every one of the ideal properties is as yet
missing and contemplates are proceeded fully expecting a novel chemical
with such properties.
Interaction balance governs microbial community richness-stability relationship in terrestrial ecosystems
Authors: Zhou Hanchang , Ma Anzhou , Liu Guohua , Chen Xianke , Zhou Xiaorong , Yin Jun , Liang Yu , Zhang Jiejie , Gen Pengxue , Chang Ruiying , Zhuang Guoqiang
Published: January 2024

Richness-stability relationships (RSRs), such as richness-resistance
relationship and richness-resilience relationship, are a basic, but
controversial, question in ecology. RSRs vary among different
communities, with the positive and negative interactions among community
members considered as the potential cause of different RSRs. However,
there is still no empirical data to support the relationship between
these interactions and RSRs. To confirm the potential effect of
community interactions on RSRs, we selected soil microbial communities
from ecosystems that represented 5 different successional stages and
conducted a simulated stress-recovery incubation. Our results showed
that soil microbial community RSRs were controlled by the balance of
positive and negative interactions. If positive and negative interaction
of the microbial community network were balanced, the
richness-resistance relationship was significantly positive while the
richness-resilience relationship was negative. In contrast, if positive
and negative interaction were unbalanced, the richness-resistance
relationship was significantly negative while the richness-resilience
relationship was positive.
To compare the effects of hypertonic saline and mannitol for treatment of adults with elevated intracranial pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trails
Authors: Peng Cheng , Gao Fan , Zhang Lei , Rao Wei , Feng Baohai , Lv Jiangning , Hao Qiang , Wang Yangang , Zhao Yuanli
Published: January 2024

Aims: Currently, mannitol and hypertonic saline (HTS) are mostly used in
treatment of adult with elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). However,
there is no high-level evidence on the superiority of mannitol versus
HTS. Therefore, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to
compare effects of hypertonic saline and mannitol for treatment of
adults with elevated ICP. Methods: We performed a search on lots of
databases for eligible studies. Prospective randomized control trials
comparing HTS and mannitol in adults with elevated ICP were included,
and ICP monitoring should be applied. Primary outcome was change of ICP
values, and secondary outcomes were changes of cerebral perfusion
pressure (CPP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate, serum sodium,
serum osmolarity and hematocrit (HCT). Results: A total of ten studies
(384 patients, 1578 episodes) were included. A pooled result indicated
HTS reduced ICP more effectively than mannitol. At 0.5 h, 1 h, and 2 h
after intervention, results also showed a better efficiency of HTS than
mannitol. In addition, results indicated elevation of CPP, serum sodium
and serum osmolarity were all more in HTS group than in mannitol group.
And there were no statistical significance in changes of MAP, HCT and HR
between the two interventions. Conclusion: Our study indicated HTS had a
better efficiency in reduction of elevated ICP than mannitol in earlier
stage. Based on the current level of evidence of ICP control and effects
in other physiological indicators, HTS could be recommended as a
first-line agent for managing patients with elevated ICP.
Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and first lockdown on pregnancy monitoring in France: the COVIMATER cross-sectional study
Authors: Doncarli Alexandra , Araujo-Chaveron Lucia , Crenn-Hébert Catherine , Demiguel Virginie , Boudet-Berquier Julie , Barry Yaya , Santo Maria-Eugênia Gomes Do Espirito , Guajardo Andrea , Menguy Claudie , Tabaï Anouk , Wyndels Karine , Benachi Alexandra , Regnault Nolwenn
Published: January 2024

Objective To study the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the first
lockdown in France on voluntary changes by pregnant women in the medical
monitoring of their pregnancy. Study population Adult (>18
years old) pregnant women during the first lockdown (March-May 2020),
living in France, and participating in an access panel of internet
users. Design and Settings A cross-sectional study was conducted in July
2020 using a web-questionnaire completed by 500 pregnant women selected
by quotas sampling (age group, socio-professional category, region of
residence at the time of the lockdown, and parity). Methods A robust
variance Poisson regression model was used to estimate adjusted
prevalence ratios (aPRs). A manual stepwise descending approach was
applied to obtain the final model. Main Outcome Measures Voluntary
postponement or foregoing of pregnancy monitoring. Results Almost one
women of five (23.4%) reported having voluntarily postponed or foregone
at least one consultation or pregnancy check-up during the lockdown.
Women who were professionally inactive (aPR=1.98,
CI95%[1.24-3.16]), who had experienced serious disputes or violence
during the lockdown (1.47, [1.00-2.16]), who felt they received
little or no support (1.71, [1.07-2.71]), and those who changed
health professionals during the lockdown (1.57, [1.04-2.36]) were
all more likely to have voluntarily changed their pregnancy monitoring.
Higher level of worry about the pandemic was associated with a lower
probability of voluntarily changing pregnancy monitoring (0.66, [0.46
-0.96]). Conclusions Our results can guide prevention and support
policies for pregnant women in the current and future pandemics.
Financing Santé publique France
Intraspecific plant variation mediates the effect of crop diversity under drought stress
Authors: Singh Akanksha , Schöb Christian , Lehner Inea
Published: January 2024

Increasing interspecific and intraspecific diversity in agricultural
systems provides promising solutions for sustainably increasing crop
yield. Most research so far has focused on understanding plant–plant
interactions to develop productive crop mixtures. The role of specific
plant varieties in mediating such interactions is relatively
understudied. Common bean is a widely cultivated crop in North
Macedonia, usually grown in monocultures. Drought is one of the main
yield limiting factors for beans in the country. Our study is part of a
project that aims to improve bean production in North Macedonia by using
measures such as intercropping. We first conducted a greenhouse
experiment to determine drought tolerant bean varieties. The chosen
varieties were further grown in a second greenhouse experiment with
additional crop species in different species and cultivar mixtures. The
aim of our study was to select plant/cultivar mixtures that result in
higher bean yield and that can be trialed in farmer fields in North
Macedonia. We hypothesized that the interaction of beans with the
additional crop species will be influenced by water stress and by the
identity of bean varieties. Overall, we recorded sorghum and chickpea
presence to increase bean yield and sunflower presence to reduce bean
yield, irrespective of drought stress. However, the effect of these
additional species on bean yield varied across different bean varieties.
This could partially be explained by variation in growth rate between
varieties, where the fastest growing variety recorded the highest yield
increase in crop mixtures. Our study highlights the role that crop
genetic variation can play in mediating interspecific plant
interactions. We suggest that to develop crop mixtures, it is not only
important to consider the functional traits of the interacting plant
species, but also of the different plant varieties.
Local territory-wide experience on challenges in management of transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Wilson , Ma Alison LT , Chan Eugene , Kan Amanda , Lee Pamela PW , Cheuk Daniel Ka Leung , Lee Vincent , Chiang Alan , Leung Wing , Chan Godfrey
Published: January 2024

Transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA) is an
under-recognized yet potentially devastating complication of
hematopoietic stem cell transplantation which had increased awareness in
recent years. This report summarizes territory-wide experience of
paediatric TA-TMA in the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital from 1 April 2019
to 31 March 2021. Total six patients were identified among 73
transplants performed. Median duration of onset was 2.5 months
post-HSCT. Three patients died while all 3 survivors suffered from stage
2 to 5 chronic kidney disease despite administration of eculizumab. To
conclude, recognition and diagnosis of TA-TMA is challenging. Clinical
utility of complement blockage with eculizumab is limited.
Comparative assessment of SARS-CoV-2 serology in healthcare workers with Abbott Architect, Roche Elecsys and The Binding site ELISA immunoassays.
Authors: Mohanraj Dinesh , Whitelegg Alison , Bhole Malini
Published: January 2024

Background: SARS-CoV-2 serology testing is key for assessing
seroprevalence and community transmission in both symptomatic and
asymptomatic contexts. Robust assay development requires assessment in
asymptomatic and non-hospitalised individuals to determine if
serological assays are sensitive to detect mild antibody-responses. Our
study evaluated the performance characteristics between two
high-throughput SARS-CoV-2 IgG nucleocapsid assays (Abbott and Roche)
and The binding site (TBS) Anti-Spike IgG/A/M ELISA kit in healthcare
workers. Methods: 252 samples were collected from Portsmouth Hospital
University NHS Trust (PHU) and The Dudley Group NHS Trust and analysed
for SARS-CoV-2 serology. We derived concordance, agreement and assay
performance as well as using receiver operating characteristic (ROC)
curves to redefine the assay threshold of the Abbott assay Results:
Result concordance between the Abbott and TBS was 66%. Discrepant
samples were analysed using the Roche assay which showed 100% agreement
with the TBS assay. In samples analysed >58 days post-PCR,
the sensitivity of Abbott and Roche was 100%. In samples analysed
>100 days post-PCR the sensitivity of the Abbott assay
dropped to 77.2% but remained at 100% for the Roche assay. A redefined
Abbott threshold of 0.64 increased the sensitivity to 90% giving
results similar to the Roche and TBS assays. Conclusion: This study
demonstrated use of manufacturer cut-off threshold for Abbott SARS-CoV-2
IgG immunoassay induced lower sensitivity and higher false negative
outcomes in comparison to TBS and Roche. Our findings established TBS
can be implemented as a viable alternative for SARS-CoV-2 serology
testing where high-throughput assays are not available on site.
The Effect of the Immunoglobulin G- A- M Treatment on Hepatic Function Tests in Patients with Severe Sepsis
Authors: bindal ahmet , yavuz lütfi
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To explore the effects of conventional sepsis treatment,
including classical antibiotherapy and IgG-A-M combinations, on liver
function tests in patients with severe sepsis. Material and method: Our
study retrospectively examined the effects of Immunoglobulin G-A-M
combination (Pentoglobin®) on liver function test and mortality rate in
patients who were in the septic process. We administered the
Immunoglobulin G-A-M combination infusion lasting 12 hours at a dose of
5mg/kg for three days to the patients we enrolled in the study. We
administered this protocol to a total of 70 patients who met the study
criteria. Results: Immunoglobulin G-A-M combination therapy had no
statistically significant effect on liver function tests and mortality
in sepsis. Conclusion: Sepsis is a clinical condition that continues to
have a high mortality rate despite advances in treatment modalities.
Although anti-infective And anti-inflammatory treatments are used, there
is no clear daya on their efficacy.However, early diagnosis of sepsis,
early initiation of antibiothearpy, early source control And timely
initiation of appropriate fluid therapy play a key role in succsess of
sepsis treatment. For this purpose, as emphasized in the sepsis 3
guideline, we think that raising awareness by physicians And
practitioners in early diagnosis of sepsis is the Most important step in
the treatment of this clinical condition. Keywords: sepsis, liver
function tests, immunoglobulin G-A-M
Diminished IgG serum levels of Rubella, Diphtheria toxin, Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Tetanus Toxoid in cancerous pediatric patients after chemotherapy; a report from Iranian malignant children
Authors: Ghaffari Kazem , Absalan Abdorahim , Eghbali Aigin , Eghbali Aziz , afzal roghaye rahimi , sarlak simin
Published: January 2024

Background: Chemotherapy suppresses the immunoglobulin production due to
the cell toxicity. Decreased immunoglobulins levels results in
opportunistic infections. Assessment of immunoglobulin G (IgG) serum
levels against selected vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD) before and 6
months after chemotherapy (AC) in a group of Iranian cancerous children.
Methods: Serum levels of Rubella, Diphtheria toxin, Hepatitis B virus
(HBV), Tetanus Toxoid, Mumps and Measles IgGs of were measured among 30
previously vaccinated malignant children. Six months AC, IgG serum
levels were retested to compare with the before treatment concentration.
Results: 17 (56.7%) individuals were male and the age mean±SD =
7.69±3.09 (3-15 years). The most frequent malignancy was ALL (56.7%).
Rubella IgG was decreased from 73.88±85.11 to 56.59±72.84 IU/mL
(P< 0.05; r= 0.956; 33.4% became negative AC (NAC),
Diphtheria toxin IgG was diminished from 0.683±0.454 to 0.174±0.248
IU/mL (P< 0.05; r= 0.601; 26.7% NAC); Anti-HBV IgG was
reduced from 46.26±101.56 to 25.56±80.49 IU/mL (p< 0.05; r=
0.524; 60% NAC) and Anti-Tetanus Toxoid IgG was fall down from
1.031±0.582 to 0.321±0.408 IU/mL (p< 0.05; r= 0.365; 33.4%
NAC). Anti-Measles and Anti-Mumps IgGs were not significantly changed
(p> 0.05). Conclusion: Pediatric chemotherapy was
associated with diminished IgG serum levels of most VPD. Quantitative
estimations showed that: when the higher or lower IgG exists before
chemotherapy, the higher and lower levels remain 6 months after
treatment, respectively. Revaccination program is suggested against
opportunistic infectious threats in Iranian pediatrics suffering cancer
and undergoing chemotherapy. This approach enhances their survival and
quality of life.
What matters for pregnant women with rheumatic heart disease - perspectives of health service providers: A qualitative study
Authors: Vaughan Geraldine , Dawson Angela , Peek Michael , Carapetis Jonathan , Wade Vicki , Sullivan Elizabeth
Published: January 2024

Objective: Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) persists in low-middle-income
countries and in high-income countries where there are health
inequities. RHD in pregnancy (RHD-P) is associated with poorer maternal
and perinatal outcomes. Our study examines health care perspectives of
models of care for women with RHD-P. Design: Descriptive qualitative
study exploring health professionals’ perspectives of care pathways for
women with RHD-P. Setting: Australia Population: Nineteen participants
from maternal health and other clinical and non-clinical domains related
to RHD-P. Methods: Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews.
Results: A constellation of factors challenged the provision of cohesive
women-centred care, related to health systems, workforces and culture.
Themes included conduits of care - helping to break down silos of
information, processes and access; ‘layers on layers’ – reflecting the
complexity of care issues; and shared understandings – factors that
contributed to improved understandings of disease and informed
decision-making. Conclusions: Pregnancy for women with RHD provides an
opportunity to strengthen health system responses, improve care pathways
and address whole-of-life health. To respond effectively, structural and
cultural changes are required including enhanced investment in education
and capacity building – particularly in maternal health – to support a
better informed and skilled workforce. Aboriginal Mothers and Babies
programs provide useful exemplars to guide respectful effective models
of care for women with RHD, with relevance for non-Indigenous women in
high-risk RHD communities. For key goals to be met in the context of
RHD, maternal health must be better integrated into RHD strategies and
RHD better addressed in maternal health.
Metabolomics analysis of amniotic fluid in foetuses with thickened nuchal translucency by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: murgia federica , Monni Giovanni , corda valentina , Hendren Aran J , Paci Giulia , Piras Alba , Ibba Rosa Maria , Atzori Luigi
Published: January 2024

Objective: Persistence of a fetal thickened Nuchal translucency (NT),
one of the most sensitive and specific individual markers of fetal
disorders, is strongly correlated with the possibility of a genetic
syndrome, congenital infections or other malformations. Thickened NT can
also be found in normal pregnancies. Several of its pathophysiological
aspects still remain unexplained. Metabolomics could offer a fresh
opportunity to explore maternal-foetal metabolism in an effort to
explain its physiological and pathological mechanisms. Design: A
population-based prospective cohort study (2020-2021). Setting:
Cagliari, Italy. Population and Methods: Thirty-nine samples of amniotic
fluids were collected from women who underwent amniocentesis due to an
increased risk of aneuploidy, divisible into 12 foetuses with an
enlarged nuchal translucency (>NT) and 27 controls (C).
Samples were analyzed using a Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry
platform. Subsequently, multivariate and univariate statistical analyses
and Receiver Operator Curves (ROC) were performed to find a specific
metabolic pattern of >NT class. Results: The supervised
model analysis showed robust statistical parameters (R2X=0.2, R2Y=0.76,
Q2=0.4, p<0.002). The correlation between the complete
metabolic profile and clinical parameters were evaluated (NT showed an
R2=0.75, p=0.002, foetal crown-rump length showed R2=0.65, p=0.002,
pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein-A showed R2=0.60). Nine metabolites
significantly differing between >NT foetuses and C were
detected: 2-hydroxybutyric acid, 3-hydroxybutyric, 1,5 Anydro-Sorbitol,
cholesterol, erythronic acid, fructose, malic acid, threitol and
threonine which were linked to altered pathways involved in altered
energetic pathways. Conclusion: Through the metabolomics approach it was
possible to identified a specific metabolic fingerprint of the fetuses
with >NT.
The presence of hyperdense middle cerebral artery sign is associated with more new territory emboli
Authors: Aykac Ozlem , Ozdemir Atilla Ozcan , Cenikli Utku
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims: The hyperdense middle cerebral artery sign (HMCAS)
on admission non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) is a
well-characterized phenomenon in acute ischemic stroke. The purpose of
this study is to determine the impact of HMCAS on the outcome of
patients underwent endovascular thrombectomy Method: A retrospective
analysis of the prospectively collective database included 136
consecutive patients with anterior circulation acute ischemic stroke who
underwent endovascular thrombectomy. We collected the demographics, and
clinical and brain imaging as well as functional and imaging outcomes
data at baseline. Patients were divided into two groups with hyperdense
artery signs and those without the sign. The difference between the two
groups in terms of mortality and prognosis was analyzed. Results: There
were 136 patients, 50.7 % of them were women. The mean age was 59.1
years. The subgroup with HMCAS present consisted of 93 patients. There
were no differences in demographics and clinical characteristics between
the two groups, however, tobacco use is more common in patients with
HMCAS. No significant difference was observed in clinical outcomes and
mortality between the two groups at 3 months. Patients with HMCAS had
statistically more new territory emboli during the procedure (9.7%)
compared to patients without HMCAS. Conclusion: We showed that the
presence of HMCAS in initial CT was not helpful in predicting good
clinical outcomes in patients undergoing endovascular therapy patients.
However, the presence of HMCAS is related to more new territory embolism
during the procedure. Different endovascular strategies may be applied
in these patients.
Study of prevalence of abnormal Pap Smear and its associated risk factors in HIV positive women: A cross sectional study.
Authors: Shankaranarayana Prathima , Sarojini Sarojini , Latha Latha , RATHOD ASHAKIRAN
Published: January 2024

Abstract: Objective: 1. To determine the prevalence of pre malignant
cervical lesions in HIV positive women using conventional Pap smear. 2.
To determine the association between various risk factors in HIV
positive women and abnormal cytology on Pap smear. Design: A
cross-sectional study was conducted in Bangalore Medical College in
which eligible HIV positive women underwent Pap smear, human
papillomavirus (HPV) testing and cervical biopsy. Methods: Retropositive
women attending gynaec OPD during the study period were taken into the
study after taking informed consent. Women who fulfilled the inclusion
criteria were subjected to Pap smear. Bethesda system of classification
was used for reporting the Pap smear. Women with abnormal Pap smear were
further evaluated by HPV DNA testing and cervical biopsy. Results:
Cervical cytology was abnormal in 30% of the HIV positive women, out of
which 10% had HSIL, 15% had LSIL and 5% had ASCUS. Age at first
sexual intercourse <17 years (p=0.009), past H/O STI
(p=0.0001), women with husband’s having multiple sexual partners
(p=0.0001), women with CD4 count < 350 cells/microlitre
(p=0.0001) were significant risk factors associated with abnormal Pap
Smear. Conclusion: Invasive cervical cancer is considered a preventable
disease because of its long preinvasive state. Therefore, screening for
pre malignant cervical lesions represents an opportunity to prevent
women developing cervical carcinoma.
Sticking around: plant persistence strategies on edaphic islands
Authors: Ottaviani Gianluigi , Castro Francisco Emmanuel Méndez , Conti Luisa , Zelený David , Chytry Milan , Doležal Jiří , Jandová Veronika , Altman Jan , Klimešová Jitka
Published: January 2024

Species extinction risk at local scales can be partially offset by
strategies promoting in-situ persistence. We explored how
persistence-related traits of clonal and non-clonal plants in temperate
dry grasslands respond intra- and interspecifically to variation in
environmental conditions (soil, climate) and insularity. We focused on
edaphic island specialist species, hypothesizing that plants
experiencing harsh soil environments and strong insularity are
distinguished by traits supporting enhanced persistence, such as small
stature, long lifespan and resource-conservative strategies. We found
general support for this hypothesis. Soil properties and insularity
emerged as the most important drivers of trait patterns. However, clonal
species showed more consistent responses to variation in environmental
conditions and insularity than non-clonal plants, which were
characterized by distinct species-specific responses. We call for a
broader inclusion of persistence-related traits in plant ecology and
biogeography; this may provide key insights for predicting species
extinction risk in changing and insular environments.
Numerical simulation of interface tracking between two immiscible micropolar and dusty fluids
Authors: Chandrawat Rajesh , Joshi Varun
Published: January 2024

The development of the interface tracking between two immiscible liquids
is one of the most challenging problems in fluid dynamics. The
simulation of the lubrication process, oil extraction, and the
physicochemical mechanism that govern the behavior of the uncertain
conduct of interface is a key element in “gas-oil” or “oil-water”
natural gas-oil reservoirs systems and should be tracked for optimal
recovery. Motivated by the interface evolution process, in this article,
an unsteady flow of two immiscible Eringen micropolar and
Dusty(fluid-particle suspension) fluids is considered through a
horizontal channel. The Analysis of the interface between two immiscible
Eringen micropolar and Dusty(fluid-particle suspension) fluids are
carried out. Although the channel wall is hyper-stick and no-slip, it is
believed that the fluid-fluid interface is unstable and can be also
deformed from one location to another; thus, the single momentum
equation is coupled for monitoring the interface profiles using the
VOF(Volume of fluid) technique. The modeled coupled- partial
differential equations are numerically solved by the modified B-spline
differential quadrature method. The interface profile under the
influence of different parameters, i.e. Froude, Capillary, wave and
Reynolds number, volume fraction function, the ratio of viscosities,
densities, and time is analyzed through the graph. It is noticed that
initially, the vertical elongation of the interface is large, and then
the shape of the interface (topology) evolves with time; hence the
undulating sequence occurs faster for a more considerable time and
eventually becomes stable. The qualitative characteristics of this flow
are sustained.
Spatial Quaternionic and Quaternionic Osculating Direction Curve
Authors: Kızıltuğ Sezai , Erişir Tülay , MUMCU Gokhan
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we investigate a new structure of unit speed associated
curves, such as spatial quaternionic and quaternionic osculating
direction curves. For this, we assume that the vector fields 휒.%/ =
휐1.%/t.%/+ 휐2.%/n.%/+ 휐3.%/b.%/ where 휐2 1.%/+ 휐2 2.%/ = 1
for the spatial quaternionic curve and 휒.%/ = 휆1.%/æ.%/ +
휆2.%/휂.%/ + 휆3훽2.%/, where 휆2 1.%/+휆2 2.%/+휆2 3.%/ = 1 for
the quaternionic curve 휙. Then, we give the relationship between
(spatial) quaternionic (OD)-curves and Mannheim curve pair. Moreover, we
examine in which cases the (spatial) quaternionic (OD)-curve can be
helix or slant helix. Finally, we give the examples and draw the figures
of curves in the examples.
A Novel Case of Prolonged Ifosfamide Encephalopathy and Long-term Treatment with Methylene Blue: A Case Report & Review of Literature
Authors: Chain Gabriel , Kalia Mudit , Kestenabum Karen , Pappas Lara , Sechser-Perl Anna , Campino Gadi Abebe , Zaghloul Nibal
Published: January 2024

Encephalopathy following Ifosfamide treatment is a well-described
phenomenon that is commonly treated with Methylene Blue (MB). The course
of encephalopathy and MB therapy has not been described in the
literature as lasting longer than 30 days following treatment cessation.
We present the case of an 11-year-old female with recurrent episodes of
severe somnolence for five months following Ifosfamide-containing
chemotherapy for her germ cell tumor. Administration of MB gave
immediate but limited response. Our novel case continued to require
treatment for 5 months following cessation of therapy. We hypothesize
that a genetic component confers increased susceptibility to
Ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy.