bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CRISPR Cas System: a Strategic Approach in Detection of Nucleic Acids
Authors: Fapohunda Funmilayo , Huang Dong , Qiu Songlin , Qiao Sen , Pan Ye , Shi Shenyan , Wang Huiying , Lu Peng
Published: January 2024

Over the decades, rapid nucleic acid detection has been difficult to
scientists, especially to those in the field of microbiology,
biotechnology and immunology. Most principles are finite in sensitivity,
specificity or both. Recently, better technologies and immunoassays are
being developed using specific antibodies in order to improve accurate
detection in diagnostics approaches. CRISPR systems, which are natively
inhabitant of prokaryotes, provides adaptive immunity to bacteriophages
and transformation of plasmid, advanced in modern technologies for
diagnostics and treatments, applied in therapeutic areas and has helped
tremendously in, base editing, , transcriptional regulation, gene
editing, epigenome editing and especially in detecting nucleic acid that
is vital to human health. These modern approaches are combined or paired
with other methods like SHERLOCK, DETECTR, HUDSON, and so on to detect
viruses and other pathogenic agents directly from patient samples.
CRISPR Cas proteins, Cas9 system majorly, is a very significant and
effective tool used in editing gene based on the adaptive immune defense
mechanism of Bacteria and Achaea against foreign DNA invasion. Cas 13
and Cas 12 has collateral cleavage activity that has been utilized for
applications in diagnostics and detection of nucleic acids such as
SHERLOCK. Also, Cas 13 can process its CRISPR array and release
individual CRISPR RNA also known as CrRNAs. Conclusively, rapid,
sensitive, accurate and advanced molecular techniques will be increased
since they can be applied in both diagnostics and treatments.
Birch allergen challenges in allergic conjunctivitis using unitary tests and an exposure chamber
Authors: Gherasim Alina , Fauquert Jean Luc , Domis Nathalie , SIOMBOING Xavier , Beck Nicole , Bourcier Tristan , Blay Frédéric De
Published: January 2024

Background: Environmental exposure chambers (EECs) have been used
extensively to study allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Few studies have been
published using EECs in conjunctivitis only, and none have used
conjunctival allergen challenge as a selection criterion. The present
study validated ALYATEC EEC in allergic conjunctivitis to birch
allergens. Methods: Sixteen patients with a positive conjunctival
allergen challenge (CAC) were ex-posed to 60 ng/m3 of Bet v 1 in an EEC
on 2 consecutive days for a maximum of 4 hours. Re-producibility was
tested among seven of the patients. A positive conjunctival response
during the CAC and the EEC exposure was defined as a Total Ocular
Symptom Score (TOSS) ≥ 5. Results: Fifty percent of patients had a
positive conjunctival response during the first expo-sure and 75%
during the second. The mean time to a positive conjunctival response was
81.2±33.9 minutes and 101.6±57 (P>0.05) during the first
and second exposure, respectively. No difference in the TOSS occurred
between the two exposures. The time necessary to ob-tain a positive
response during the CAC was significantly shorter than with the EEC. The
es-timated quantity of Bet v 1 inducing a positive response was
0.07±0.03 ng (exposure 1), 0.07±0.07 ng (exposure 2), 980±784 ng (CAC).
The frequency of conjunctival responses and quantity of Bet v 1 was
reproducible in all six EEC exposures. Conclusions: Birch allergen
exposures inducing early conjunctival responses were different than
those identified with direct installation during CAC. EEC appears to be
closer to natural exposure than CAC.
Identification of Fowl Adenovirus as a causative agent of inclusion body hepatitis (IBH) in commercial broilers
Authors: Abdularahamn Nawzad , Saeed Nahla , Othman Dyary , Mohamad Shilan , Sulaiman Rizgar , Abdulahad Emad , Rashid Peshnyar Atta , Mahmood Zana
Published: January 2024

Inclusion body hepatitis is a viral disease caused by Adenovirus group
I, and it is worldwide in distribution. The virus is endemic in
Sulaymaniyah city, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and infections occurred in
forty-six broiler farms from April 2013 to May 2020. Infected bird’s
ages ranged between two days and four weeks. Clinically, birds showed
lethargy, huddling with ruffled feathers, inappetence, and yellow,
mucoid droppings. Gross lesions included enlarged mottled liver, pale
icteric skin, swollen pale kidney, and hemorrhage on the skeletal
muscle. Histopathological examinations revealed large intranuclear
inclusion bodies in hepatocytes, degeneration and congestion of liver
sinusoids, and degeneration of renal tubules, spermatozoa, spermatid,
Sertoli cells, and Leydig cells in the testicle. There were intertubular
hemorrhages and large vacuoles. The seminiferous tubular lumens were
dilated, contained necrotic debris, and were devoid of spermatozoa in
the interstitial tissue. Lesions in the testicle are reported for the
first time in the present study. RT-PCR was used to detect the virus by
amplification of partial 1300 bp hexon genes. The amplified fragments
were confirmed by sequencing. Our results concluded that two different
genotypes circulate in Kurdistan, and the nucleotide sequence of
Kurdistan fowl adenovirus (FAdV) isolates show only 81% homology
together. The FAdV/Kurdistan/2013 and FAdV/Kurdistan/2020 belonged to
FAdV-E close to USA isolates. On the other hand, the FAdV/Kurdistan/2015
belonged to FAdV-D closer to the Chinese FAdV isolate.
Numerical study of laminar water-Al2O3 nanofluids flow and transfer of heat through a rectangular micro-channel in presence of trapezoidal baffles
Authors: Saha Sandip , Raut Santanu , Das Apurba
Published: January 2024

Numerical simulations of laminar water-Al2O3 nanofluids flow phenomena
and thermal behavior (velocity, normalized temperature profiles,
poiseuille number, local and averageNusselt number and friction factor)
through a rectangular micro-channel with two baffles have been studied
with the variations of baffle height, volume fraction percentages and
Re, which has a significant issue in engineering applications. The
governing equations have been solved by SIMPLE algorithm and FLUENT
software has been used to visualize the simulation results which
demonstrate that variation. of volume fraction and baffle height
resulted in a significant change in normalized temperature and velocity
profiles along the center line.
Interpretation of composite OCT/MRI findings: a clinical review of retinotopy
Authors: Bijvank Jenny , Wenniger Lucas Maillette de Buy , Graaf Pim de , Petzold Axel
Published: January 2024

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) offers clinicians detailed in vivo
structural imaging of individual retinal layers. This has lead to novel
observations which were impossible by direct ophthalmoscopy. The
technique also helps to re-introduce the concept of retinotopy to
clinical practise. This review illustrates the anatomical foundation for
retinotopy through detailed sketches of the pre- and post-laminar axons
forming the optic nerve and their post-synaptic path from the dorsal
lateral geniculate nucleus to the primary visual cortex in humans. With
the mapped neuroanatomy in mind we use OCT-MRI pairs to discuss the
patterns of neurodegeneration in eye and brain that are a consequence of
the hard wired retinotopy: antero- and retrograde axonal degeneration
which can, within the visual system, propagate trans-synaptically. The
technical advances of OCT and MRI for the first time enable us to trace
the signals of axonal degeneration through the visual system entirely at
spectacular resolution. In addition to atrophic processes, we also
summarize novel insights on tissue thickening mainly at the level of the
optic disc, in particular peripaphillary hyperreflecitive ovoid mass
like structures (PHOMS). In conclusion, the neuroanatomical insights
provided by the combination of OCT and MRI allows us to separate
incidental findings from sinister pathology and gives us new
opportunities to tailor and monitor novel neuroprotective strategies.
TREATMENT OF CHILDHOOD ACUTE LYMPHOBLASTIC LEUKEMIA IN IRAQ: A 17-YEAR EXPERIENCE FROM A SINGLE CENTER
Authors: Al-Hadad Salma , Al-Jadiry Mazin , Ghali Hasanein , Al-Badri Safaa , Al-Saeed Raghad , Al-Darraji Amir , Sabhan Ahmed , Fadhil Samaher , Hussein Hanadi , Abed Wisam , Ameen Najiha , Sarhan Jawad , Jaafar Ghufran , Abed Aseel , Mohamed Sara , Moleti Maria Luisa , piciocchi alfonso , foà robin , Testi Anna Maria
Published: January 2024

Background: About 300 childhood cancer cases are diagnosed annually at
the Children Welfare Teaching Hospital (CWTH) in Baghdad, Iraq, and
aproximately 32% are acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Procedure: We
performed a retrospective single-center analysis of 1415 ALL children
ranging from 1 to 15 years, diagnosed between January 2000 and December
2016. Patients were divided into three cohorts according to treatment
period (2000-2005; 2006-2011; 2012-2016). Treatment protocols were based
on three consecutive, modified and locally adapted pediatric UKALL
protocols (-97, -2003, -2011); a 7-day steroid pre-phase was introduced
for all patients from September 2008. Results: The overall complete
remission (CR) rate was 86%. It progressively increased from 80% to
91% in the last study period. Early deaths occurred in 10% of
children, decreasing from 12% to 6%, over time. Induction treatment
abandonment rate was 3%. Relapse occurred in 23% of children. Toxic
deaths and overall treatment abandonment in CR were 8% and 13%,
respectively. Remission deaths remained unchanged, while abandonments
decreased from 23% to 6% over time. At a median follow-up of 65.3
months, with abandonment considered as an event, the 5-year overall
survival and event-free survival were 62.2% and 46.3%, and were
statistically influenced by the treatment period. Conclusions: Though
pediatric ALL survival in Iraq is still below that observed in high
income countries, survival rates have progressively improved. Toxic
deaths remain an important cause of failure. Pediatric oncologists fully
dedicated to the improvement of patients’ care have significantly
contributed to lower rates of early deaths, abandonment and treatment
failures.
Very Severe aortic stenosis with a mean gradient of 134 mmHg in a 17-year-old female with bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: Patel Aman , Velamakanni Subrahmanya Murti , Khadkikar Gajanan , Patel Tejas
Published: January 2024

Bicuspid aortic valve is the most common congenital anomaly and is
associated with the early onset of severe aortic stenosis by the fifth
decade. Here, we present the echocardiographic images of a 17-year-old
with bicuspid aortic valve who presented with symptomatic severe aortic
stenosis with a very high mean transvalvular gradient of 134 mmHg
Exhaled 15-HETE and thromboxin-B2 are associated with therapeutic outcome in childhood asthma
Authors: Chen Li-Chen , Tseng Hsu-Min , Kuo Ming-Ling , Chiu Chih-Yung , Liao Sui-Ling , Su Kuan-Wen , Tsai Ming-Han , Hua Man-Chin , Lai Shen-Hao , Yao Tsung-Chieh , Yeh Kuo-Wei , Wu Ai-Hsuan , Yu Hsiu-Yueh , Huang Jing-Long , Huang Shau-Ku
Published: January 2024

Background: Dysregulation of eicosanoids is associated with asthma and a
composite of oxylipins, including exhaled LTB4, but their potential
utility in monitoring the therapeutic outcomes has not been
comprehensively assessed. Objectives: We aimed to examine the levels of
major eicosanoids representing different metabolic pathways in exhaled
breath condensates (EBCs) of children with asthma during exacerbation
and after treatment. Methods: Levels of 6 exhaled eicosanoid species in
asthmatic children and healthy subjects were evaluated using ELISA.
Results: In addition to those previously reported, including LTB4, LTE4,
LXA4 and PGE2, the levels of exhaled 15-HETE, but not TXB2, showed
significant difference between asthmatics (N=318) and healthy controls
(N=97). When the asthmatic population was stratified into different
severity groups, the severe group was characterized by significantly
lower levels of 15-HETE and 15-HETE/LTB4 ratio, as compared to the mild
and control groups. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analyses
revealed similar distinguishing power for the level of exhaled 15-HETE
and those of FEV1 and FeNO. Analysis of asthmatics (N=75) during
exacerbation and convalescence showed significant improvement in lung
function (FEV1; p<0.001), but not FeNO, concomitant with
significantly increased levels of 15-HETE (p<0.001) and
reduced levels of TXB2 (p<0.05) after therapy, particularly
for those who at the top 30% level during exacerbation. Further,
decreased LTB4 and LXA4 at convalescence were noted only in those at the
top 30 percentile during exacerbation. Conclusion: The exhaled 15-HETE
was found to discriminate childhood asthma while decreased levels of
exhaled TXB2 and increased levels of 15-HETE were prominent after
treatment.
Pharmacist-driven antibiotic stewardship program in febrile neutropenic patients: A Prospective study
Authors: Jantarathaneewat Kittiya , Apisarnthanarak Anucha , Limvorapitak Wasithep , Weber David , Montakantikul Preecha
Published: January 2024

Aim: To determine role of pharmacists in an antibiotic stewardship
program (ASP) for febrile neutropenic patients. Methods: A prospective
study in four medical wards at Thammasat University Hospital between
August 2019 and April 2020. Two medical wards were designated as the
pharmacist-driven ASP group and two other medical wards were designated
as a control group. Our primary outcome was to compare appropriate use
of target antibiotics between the pharmacist-driven ASP group and
control group. Results: The results showed 90 febrile neutropenic events
in 66 patients. Choice of an appropriate antibiotic was significantly
higher in the pharmacist-driven ASP group than the control group (88.9%
versus 51.1%, p<0.001). Furthermore, there was greater
appropriateness of the dosage regimen chosen as empirical therapy in the
pharmacist-driven ASP group than in the control group (97.8% versus
88.7%, p=0.049) and proper duration of target antibiotics in
documentation therapy (91.1% versus 75.6%, p=0.039). Although the
pharmacist-driven ASP did not affect 30-day infectious diseases-related
mortality and length of stay (p=0.810 and 0.267, respectively),
multivariate analysis showed that pharmacist-driven ASP and infectious
diseases consultation had favorable impact on 30-day infectious
diseases-related mortality in chemotherapy induced febrile neutropenic
patients (OR 0.082, 95%CI: 0.009-0.762, P = 0.028). Conclusions: Our
study demonstrated that clinical pharmacists could implement an
antibiotic stewardship program for febrile neutropenic patients.
Pharmacist-driven ASP could be a great opportunity to improve antibiotic
appropriateness in febrile neutropenic patients.
Growth/differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) as a predictor of serious arrhythmic events in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: May Bruna Miers , Kochi Adriano , Magalhães Ana Paula , Scolari Fernando , Zimerman André , Andrades Michael , Zimerman Leandro , Rohde Luis Eduardo , Pimentel Mauricio
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Cardiac biomarkers have been proposed as a new tool to
improve risk stratification of serious arrhythmic events in patients
with heart failure (HF) beyond estimates of left ventricular ejection
fraction. Growth differentiation factor (GDF)-15, a stress-induced
cytokine, has been found to correlate with markers of myocardial
fibrosis and adverse clinical outcomes, but its role as a predictor of
arrhythmic events in patients with nonischemic HF is uncertain. Methods
and Results: A prospective observational study was conducted in 148
nonischemic patients with HF who underwent comprehensive clinical and
laboratory evaluation, including measurement of serum GDF-15. The study
endpoints were serious arrhythmic events (which included appropriate
implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy and sudden cardiac death)
and all-cause mortality. Mean age of the cohort was 54.8±12.7 years, and
mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 27.4±7.5. During a
mean follow-up time of 42 months, arrhythmic events occurred in 28
patients (19%), and 40 patients (27%) died. An increase in serum
GDF-15 (log-transformed) correlated linearly with a higher risk of
serious arrhythmic events (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.01-1.28, p=0.03) even
after adjustment for other potential clinical predictors (HR 1.16, 95%
CI 1.02-1.32, p=0.02). GDF-15 was also strongly and independently
associated with all-cause mortality (HR 1.17, 1.05-1.31, p=0.004).
Conclusion: In this cohort of nonischemic HF patients on optimized
medical treatment, serum GDF-15 levels were independently associated
with major arrhythmic events and overall mortality. This biomarker may
add prognostic information beyond LVEF to better stratify the risk of
sudden death in this particular population.
Knowledge, Attitude and Behaviors of Pregnant Women about COVID-19: A Single-Center Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Turan Gökçe , Kul Gülnur , Turgut Ezgi
Published: January 2024

Objective: Our aim is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and behaviors
of pregnant women about COVID-19. Material and Method: This
cross-sectional survey study was performed on pregnant women in their
second and third trimester between the November-December 2020. The
participants completed a questionnaire consisting of 5 parts.
Demographic data of pregnant women, their knowledge, attitude, and risk
perceptions toward COVID-19, their practices and worries about COVID-19,
and what they knew about pregnancy were assessed. The answers were
calculated as a percentile and mean. Results: A total of 1011
participants were included in the statistical analysis. Of the
participants, 98.5% knew that COVID-19 was transmitted through close
contact. Of the participants, 47.5% extremely trusted healthcare
workers in fighting against the COVID-19 pandemic. Affection and respect
for healthcare workers during the pandemic increased by 89.1% of the
participants. Of the participants, 50.6% were intending to decrease
their antenatal visits during the COVID-19 pandemic and 39.4% thought
that their baby may be infected after birth. Conclusion: The measures
taken can be applied with high awareness of COVID-19. Sufficient
training, in that case, can be done through communication routes such as
information and public service announcements.
DNA barcoding and phylogenomic analysis of the genus Fritillaria in China based on complete chloroplast genomes
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhang Dequan
Published: January 2024

The genus Fritillaria is an extremely complicated group in phylogeny and
taxonomy, which contained numerous medicinal species. Both traditional
characteristic-based taxonomy and standard DNA barcodes (ITS, trnH-psbA
and rbcL) are difficult to effectively delimit its species boundaries.
Here, we generated a large dataset of chloroplast genomes from multiple
accessions per species of Fritillaria to test and evaluate their
effectiveness in species discrimination. Moreover, phylogenetic
inference and divergence time estimation were performed based on the new
sequences and published chloroplast genomes. The results showed that
only F. cirrhosa could not be correctly discriminated in all species by
using complete plastomes, which suggested that they could enhance
species discriminatory resolution, but was not omnipotent. Furthermore,
four regions (ycf1, matK-trnG-GCC, rpoC1 and matK) gained remarkably
higher resolution than that of other plastid regions, but only matK
might be suitable to identify Fritillaria species in consideration of
their lengths. Phylogenetic inference showed that the subgenus
Fritillaria of China was divided into four major clades, and taxonomic
delimitation of F. omeiensis and F. hupehensis in Flora of China (2000)
might be questionable and needed further revision. Molecular dating
demonstrated that both origin and divergence of subgenus Fritillaria, as
well as its four major clades, were significantly associated with
geological and climatic fluctuations during the Middle to Late Miocene.
This study would enrich case studies of super-barcoding and provide new
insights on speciation, lineage diversification and biogeography of the
genus Fritillaria.
Identification of High Priority Focal Activations in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Using A Novel Mapping Strategy
Authors: Shimojo Masafumi , Inden Yasuya , Yanagisawa Satoshi , Riku Shuro , Suga Kazumasa , Furui Koichi , Nakagomi Toshifumi , Okajima Takashi , Shibata Rei , Murohara Toyoaki
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Focal activation is believed to be an atrial fibrillation
(AF) driver; however, little is known about whether all focal
activations are necessary for AF persistence. The purpose of this study
was to assess the electrical nature of focal activation and identify
high-priority focal activations using a novel mapping system
(CARTOFINDER). Methods: Thirty-five patients with persistent AF who
underwent catheter ablation were assessed. Cycle length (CL) and CL
standard deviation (CLSD) on unipolar recordings and voltage amplitude
and electrogram morphologies on bipolar recordings were evaluated at all
points of interest. The most frequent CL at each mapping site was
defined as the dominant CL. We identified dominant focal activations
(DFAs) that had a shorter dominant CL on the integrated CARTOFINDER map.
The effect of elimination of DFAs on AF maintenance was assessed by the
composite endpoint (termination to sinus rhythm, organization of the
rhythm to atrial tachycardia, and AF CL slowing). Results: In all, 450
focal activations were identified among 10,868 points, and 50.4% of
focal activations were DFAs. Focal activations showed relatively long CL
and regularity with short CLSD. Most focal activations showed an
isoelectric baseline and were located outside of the fractionated
electrogram area. Both DFAs and non-DFAs were typically observed in
normal voltage range. Elimination of DFAs was achieved in 19 (54.3%)
patients, with a remarkable impact on AF maintenance (68.4% vs. 25.0%,
p = 0.018). Conclusions: DFAs may play an important role in AF
maintenance and could be an attractive therapeutic target for AF.
Bringing rare species into the open: they significantly contribute to species richness in British lichen biodiversity hot-spots
Authors: Vondrák Jan , Hofmeister Jenyk , Ellis Christopher , Coppins Brian , Sanderson Neil , Malicek Jiri , Palice Zdenek , Acton Andy , Svoboda Stanislav
Published: January 2024

Ecological science aims for general principles that are transferable,
predictive and widely applicable across different local situations.
However, natural history, in contrast to ecology, is rife with examples
of the particular. In this study, we reject the validity of the general
expectation that diversity hot-spots contribute to overall species
diversity accordingly to their species richness. In eleven 1-hectare
forest plots in four distinct areas across Great Britain, we recorded
550 epiphytic and epixylic lichen species, i.e. 73 % of the presently
known British epiphytic flora. Species richness per site was regionally
stratified and mirrored by functional diversity, but species composition
differed among sites, and was unrelated to the distance between sites.
Rare species and species restricted to a single site consistently
represented a high proportion of the local species richness. This
demonstrated that each site contributed substantially and evenly to the
regional and national biodiversity of epiphytic lichens in Britain.
Several functional attributes are quite specific to rare species, so
further disappearance of rare species would lead to disproportionately
high loss of overall functional diversity.
Evaluation of efficacy and safety after replacement of methyl hydrogen with Deuterium at 7-position methyl formate of Clopidogrel
Authors: Xu zhiping , Miao Yujia , Wu Tianlong , Chen Liang , Gao Mingyue , Sun Yantong , Liu Yingze , Niu Jinjin , Cai Deqi , Li Xiaohua , Chen Chen , Liu Shengyang , Gu Jingkai , Cao Xia
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: As a first-line clinical drug, thienopyridines
still have many unsatisfactory aspects, such as the low bioavailability
of clopidogrel and the high bleeding risk of prasugrel. Our team
synthesized deuterium clopidogrel(the patent has been obtained in China)
to mitigate the disadvantages of clopidogrel clinical application,
including a slow onset, greater influence of gene polymorphism and
drug-drug interaction. Experimental Approach: Molecular docking
technology was used to analyze the affinity between deuterium
clopidogrel and P2Y12 receptor; The levels of active metabolites of
deuterium clopidogrel in vivo were detected by HPLC/MS-MS and the
activities of main metabolic enzymes was analyzed; Subsequently,
platelet aggregation function, thrombus model were used to evaluate the
pharmacodynamics of deuterium clopidogrel; Finally, the safety of
deuterium clopidogrel were evaluated by blood routine, PT, APTT,
bleeding time, serological tests, liver pathological biopsy, liver cell
apoptosis and apoptosis-related protein detection. Key Results: The
introduction of deuterium makes the binding of clopidogrel to P2Y12
receptor more stable, improves the concentration of active metabolites,
reduces the inhibition of major metabolic enzymes including CYP2B6,
CYP2C9 and CYP2C19, leading to the better anti-platelet effect without
increasing the risk of bleeding, and leads to the decrease in the degree
of hepatocyte apoptosis. Conclusion and Implications: In terms of both
efficacy and safety, deuterium clopidogrel has a better effect, the
present findings render deuterium clopidogrel a promising candidate for
clinical application in thromboembolism disease and provides a new idea
for the development of this new antithrombotic drug.
Evaluation of the Predictive Role of Standard Laboratory Tests for Disease Severity in Patients with Deep Venous Thrombosis
Authors: ETLİ MUSTAFA , KARAHAN Oguz , SERHATLIOGLU Faruk , ONTAS Hakan
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) can result in fatal outcomes
if it is not timely diagnosed and sufficiently treated. Some laboratory
markers were identified in previous reports for predicting the disease
with low sensitivity or specificity. We aimed to evaluate the predictive
value of serum albumin levels and compare them with conventional
laboratory parameters. Method: Fifty patients with acute lower-extremity
DVT who has no previous history of malignancy or hematologic disorder
were included to the study. The demographical variables and standard
biomarkers of the DVT group were compared with the normal population
(n:50). Thereafter patients were divided into two groups as extensive
DVT (thrombosis involves popliteal, femoral, and iliac veins together)
and localized DVT (thrombosis involves popliteal vein and below) and
biomarkers were compared in patient groups. Results: The demographical
variables and white blood cell count (WBC) found as similar between
healthy groups and DVT groups. However, mean platelet volume (MPV),
D-Dimer, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and fibrinogen to albumin
ratio (FAR) were found markedly higher in DVT patients. Moreover,
statistically incremental FAR and NLR levels were detected
(p<0.05) in patients with extensive DVT (involved iliac and
femoral veins). Conclusion: Serum NLR and FAR levels seem to be
significant predictors for the extensive thrombotic event in patients
with DVT.
Booster vaccination of adults with measles-mumps-rubella may provide partial protection against COVID-19 disease
Authors: Yengil Erhan , Onlen Yusuf , Ozer Cahit , Hambolat Mustafa , Ozdogan Mehmet
Published: January 2024

Aims: The study aimed to investigate COVID-19 seropositivity rate in
vaccinated and non-vaccinated adult groups to see if booster live
attenuated vaccinations have a protective effect against COVID-19 in an
isolated cluster of adults. Methods: Our retrospective cohort study was
conducted on 257 participants who were tested for COVID-19 PCR and
shared the same accommodation and the same dining hall. Participants
were divided according to their vaccination status into two groups. The
rate of COVID-19 seropositivity, age, body mass index (BMI), active
smoking, presence of comorbidity was compared between these two groups.
Results: 245 of 257 people accepted to participate in the study and
36.7% (n = 90) were COVID 19 positive. All of the participants were
healthy, male, young adults. The non-vaccinated cases (n=207) had higher
rates of COVID-19 seropositivity than the vaccinated cases (n=38)
(40.6% vs 15.8%)(Odds ratio [95%Cl]=3.6 [1.5-9.0], p=0.004),
while who were similar in terms of age, comorbidities rates, active
smoking status and BMI (p=0.305, p=0.594, p=0.280 and p=0.922,
respectively). Conclusion: Based on these results, we cautiously predict
that immunity produced by MMR vaccination boosters may make adults less
susceptible to COVID-19. Keywords: COVID-19; live attenuated vaccines;
booster vaccination; MMR.
Transcriptome Network Identifies Key regulators and Noncoding RNAs in Regulation of Abiotic Stress Response in Alfalfa
Authors: Medina Cesar , Samac Deborah , Yu Long-Xi
Published: January 2024

Alfalfa is an important legume forage grown worldwide and its
productivity is affected by drought and salt stresses. In this work,
three alfalfa germplasms with contrasting tolerances were used for
unraveling the transcriptomic responses to drought and salt stresses.
Twenty-one different RNA samples were extracted and sequenced using the
PacBio and the Illumina platforms to obtain full-length transcriptomic
profiles in response to germplasm, stress condition or tissue source
(leaf, stem and root). A total of 1,124,275 and 91,378 unique isoforms
and genes were obtained, respectively. Comparative analysis identified
multiple transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation mechanism,
including alternative splicing events, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs),
transcription factors, and nonsense-mediated mRNA decay events. This is
the first report of a genome-wide profiling of non-coding RNAs in
alfalfa. Finally, a weighted gene regulation network was generated
allowing to identify master genes including transcription factors and
other regulators such lncRNAs in regulation of plant response to drought
and salt stresses. This research provides new insight to understand the
molecular mechanisms by which drought and high salinity affect alfalfa
growth and production and improves and refine the underestimated
transcriptional landscape in M. sativa.
Vibrio cholerae from bullfrog may be transmitted to humans through food or water
Authors: yang yibin , zhu xia , chen yuhua , liu yongtao , song yi , ai xiaohui
Published: January 2024

Bullfrog is one of the most important economic aquatic animals in China.
It is widely cultured in southern China, and is a key breed recommended
by China’s poverty alleviation industry. In recent years, a fatal
bacterial disease often occurs in cultured bullfrogs. The clinical
manifestations of diseased bullfrog were severe intestinal inflammation
and even anal prolapse. A bacterial pathogen was isolated from the
diseased bullfrog intestine. The bacterium was identified as Vibrio
cholerae by morphological, biochemical and 16S rRNA phylogenetic
analysis. In this study, V. cholerae was isolated and identified from
the diseased bullfrog for the first time, which provided the basis for
the diagnosis and control of the disease. At the same time, it is also
reminded that V. cholerae from bullfrog may be transmitted to human
through bullfrog food and aquaculture water, which is a serious threat
to human beings. The whole society should pay attention to it and
formulate reasonable measures to avoid disasters.
The haze around pharmacokinetics of hydroxychloroquine
Authors: Mohan Prafull , uppal Rajdeep Singh , Chandgude Swapnil , Sinha Sharmila
Published: January 2024

Hydroxychloroquine had generated a lot of promise initially in
coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic following its reported in-vitro
efficacy. Based on in-vitro studies and emerging clinical data its
prophylactic use in healthcare workers was recommended by various
healthcare bodies such as Indian Council of Medical Research. We
undertook a study to check if hydroxychloroquine accorded any
prophylactic advantage in healthcare workers in a departmental study
under publication. The results revealed that hydroxychloroquine failed
to provide any prophylactic protection. Serum levels of
hydroxychloroquine were measured to cross-validate compliance of
prophylactic doses. We went ahead to check correlation between time
since the last dose of hydroxychloroquine and its serum levels. A poor
correlation between the two was noted (r=0.08; p=0.58) which reinforces
the underlying variability and unpredictability of pharmacokinetics of
hydroxychloroquine.
Exploration of maize landraces of Eastern Himalayan region for waterlogging tolerance at seedling and flowering stages through phenotyping of Root System Architecture
Authors: DEVI E. LAMALAKSHMI , Rangappa Krishnappa , Bhupenchandra Ingudam , Hazarika Samarendra , Gangarani Ayam , Sarika Konsam , Radhakishore Nongmaithem , Meetei Chongtham , Singh Thokchom , Chongtham Sunil , Das Sankar , Kumar Amit , AVASTHE RAVIKANT , Singh Irengbam , SHETTIGAR NIVEDITA , Kumar Amit
Published: January 2024

A field experiment was conducted to phenotype the root traits and screen
35 local maize landraces of Eastern Himalayan region for waterlogging
tolerance at seedling and flowering stage. Microcosm screening was done
at seedling stage (6-8 leaf stage) with pots maintained with flooded
water to a level of 4-5 cm above the soil surface for 15 days
continuously. Artificial flooding stress to a depth of 20-25 cm above
the soil surface for 10 days continuously was induced at the time of
flowering in the field. This was majorly performed to trace the
plasticity of root architecture through phenotyping. The evaluation and
selection of different maize landraces for waterlogging stress at
seedling stage was established through shovelomics with the apparent
calculation of response coefficient (RC) as rightful/ surrogate
indication of phenotypic plasticity and waterlogging tolerance
coefficient (WTC). For assessing the field performance, each stress
responsive trait viz., BW, BO, BA1, BA2, BB, CN, CA and CB were assigned
scoring values from one to nine visually which ideally serve as
screening measure for waterlogging tolerance. The results revealed that
genotypes RCM-44-19, RCM-16-19, RCM-39-19, RCM-42-19, RCM-15-19,
RCM-51-19, RCM-9-19, RCM-45-19, RCM-32-19, RCM-43-19, RCM-10-19,
RCM-49-19, RCM-12-19 and RCM-26-19 were identified as WL tolerant at
seedling stage and some genotypes like RCM-12-19, RCM-32-19, RCM-16-19
and RCM-23-19 showed vigorous root growth and branching after
waterlogged treatment at flowering stage. The genotypes like RCM-12-19,
RCM-32-19 and RCM-16-19 were designated as flooding stress tolerant at
both the crop growth stages which could be of appropriate utility for
the upcoming maize breeding program under excess moisture-prone
environments of North East hilly regions after systematic validation
through advance molecular tools.
Higher prevalence and diversity of avian haemosporidian infections in an elevation generalist compared to an elevation specialist
Authors: Theodosopoulos Angela , Spellman Garth , Grabenstein Kathryn , Scott Taylor
Published: January 2024

Avian haemosporidians are cosmopolitan protozoan parasites that infect a
wide range of bird species and can cause the disease avian malaria.
Previous studies that have examined haemosporidian patterns of infection
have predominantly been focused on hosts that are either tropical or
long-distance migrants. We sought to explore how the elevation range of
avian hosts influences the prevalence, probability of infection,
diversity, and community turnover of their haemosporidian infections, in
a Nearctic host study system uncoupled from long-distance migration. We
sampled two North American songbirds for haemosporidians, the mountain
chickadee (Poecile gambeli) which breeds across a wide elevation span,
and the brown-capped rosy finch (Leucosticte australis), which breeds
exclusively at high elevations above tree line. We tested whether
elevation along a single transect would play a stronger role in shaping
the diversity of avian haemosporidian infections compared to geographic
distance between sampling sites, but at more discrete elevations. Our
results indicate that the elevation generalist sampled across a single
transect was infected with a higher diversity of haemosporidian
haplotypes and at a higher infection prevalence, than the elevation
specialist sampled across six mountain ranges. These findings are
consistent with similar studies that have examined geographic patterns
of haemosporidian infections in hosts that are long-distance migrants,
that are sampled during their breeding season.
A spatial SIS model in heterogeneous environments with vary advective rate
Authors: An Xiaowei , song xianfa
Published: January 2024

We study a spatial susceptible-infected-susceptible(SIS) model in
heterogeneous environments with vary advective rate. We establish the
asymptotic stability of the unique disease-free equilibrium(DFE) when R0
> 1 and the existence of the endemic equilibrium when R0
< 1. Here R0 is the basic reproduction number. We also discuss
the effect of diffusion on the stability of the DFE.
Functional Expression of the Sweet-Tasting Protein Brazzein in Transgenic Tobacco Plants
Authors: Choi Hyo-Eun , Lee Ji-In , Jo Seon-Yeong , Chae Yun-Cheol , Lee Jeong-Hwan , Sun Hyeon-Jin , Ko Kisung , hong Sungguan , Kong Kwang-Hoon
Published: January 2024

The sweet-tasting protein, brazzein, has potential as a low-calorie
sugar substitute owing to its high sweetness, stability, and water
solubility. In this study, a synthetic brazzein gene was expressed in
the tobacco plant, Nicotiana tabacum. Three types of expression
cassettes containing the brazzein gene were constructed to examine the
expression and purification efficiency of the brazzein: pBI-BZ1
containing a signal sequence and His-tag, pBI-BZ2 containing a signal
sequence, and pBI-BZ3 containing only the brazzein gene. Brazzein, whose
expression was confirmed by ELISA, was purified via ammonium sulfate
precipitation, heat treatment, and CM-sepharose chromatography. The
purity and conformational state of the brazzein were confirmed by
SDS-PAGE, HPLC, and circular dichroism. The identity of the brazzein was
confirmed by N-terminal amino acid analysis, ESI-MS/MS, and sweetness
analysis. We successfully generated brazzein-overexpressing tobacco
plants; thus, this method could be used to produce brazzein, which can
be used as an alternative to currently produced sweeteners.
Estimation of Heart Valves Velocity Value in Healthy Males by Using Doppler Echocardiography
Authors: Elkhader Bahaaedin
Published: January 2024

Background: Using of Color Doppler make revolution in recent
echocardiography because of its ability to detect blood flow inside the
heart. Objectives: To determine the velocity of heart valves’ flow in
fit Sudanese males. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on
160 men and the mean age was 44.2 years (mean age 44.2 ±9.7 years). Free
from any heart problems. Different ultrasound modes were used in this
survey. Results: The healthy participant males, show standard normal
limits of heart valves’ mean velocity. In comparison to previous
studies, there was not difference in the detected values. Conclusion:
The outcomes of the current survey indicated that the velocities of
cardiac valves in Sudanese population correspond to those reported
values in Western literature. So normal values of these Doppler
parameters should be borne in mind for non-invasive cardiovascular
function assessment.
IMPACT OF COVID 19 ON PREGNANCY AND IT'S NEONATAL OUTCOMES IN A COVID DESIGNATED TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: SENGODAN SUBHA , M Rashetha
Published: January 2024

Sep 1,2020 India reported with 3,766,708 cases and 66,460 deaths. As a
matter of concern with increasing Infection rates,those of pregnant
women with COVID-19 is also increasing. objective To identify the
effects of COVID 19 on pregnant women,clinical characteristics &
various factors influencing maternal and neonatal outcome and its
management. Materials and methods design - cross sectional study within
one month (SEPTEMBER 1st to 30th) in a COVID designated tertiary care
hospital in the department of OG -GMKMCH,SALEM; sample: Involving about
137 antenatal patients whose nasopharyngeal swab reported covid positive
and also including those of RTPCR negative with findings in CT chest.
outcome and results In the department of OG - GMKMCH,SALEM,of the 1680
mothers admitted,150 mothers were COVID positive and among them were 137
antenatal,9 postnatal & 4 post lscs patients.Most of the antenatal
COVID 19 mothers were in third trimester of pregnancy,where 60 patients
were symptomatic at admission.12 patients were swab RTPCR negative with
CT chest positive.Covid 19 neither worsened nor altered the pregnancy
related co morbidties.11patients had moderate disease and required high
flow nasal oxygen (HFNO). Caesarean section rate was high and most of
them were delivered within 5 days of onset of illness due to obstetric
indications. About 80% newborn had birth weight of
>2.5kg,3 were found positive among 79 newborn,1 expired due
to respiratory failure. Conclusion Most mothers admitted were in third
trimester supporting the need for social distancing,handwashing and
wearing of masks.
Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Diabetes Comorbidity is Associated with Heightened Systemic Th1, Th17, Treg Cytokines and Others Biochemical Parameters
Authors: SAMA Leonard , Tchouangueu Thibau , Ngouateu: Omer , Ali Mbulli , Tchuandom Solomon , Karimo Ousenu , Tume Christopher
Published: January 2024

Background: This study aims to evaluate the impact of type 2 diabetes on
pulmonary tuberculosis immune response. Methods: The tuberculosis
diagnosis was based on the sputum smear and positivity of culture,
whereas type 2 diabetes was diagnosis based on fasting blood sugar, 2-h
PG, and glycated haemoglobin. Standardized techniques were used to
obtain liver enzymes and lipid profiles whereas ELISA cytokine assay
system was used to measured plasma cytokines levels. Results: fasting
blood glucose (p<0.0001), 2hPG (p = 0.0097) and Glycated
haemoglobin percentage (p <0.0001) in TB patients with
diabetes were found to be significantly high as compare with TB patients
without diabetes. While total cholesterol (p= 0.0093), serum
triglycerides (p= 0.0001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p=
0.0086), were significantly high among Tb with diabetes, whereas High
density lipoprotein cholesterol found to be significantly (p = 0.0002)
elevated among TB patients without diabetes. TB and diabetes linked with
increase concentration of Th1 (IFN-γ and TNF-α), Th17 (IL-17A) and Treg
cytokines. The systemic levels of analysed cytokines show a positive
increase associated with the HbA1c levels among TB patients except with
IL-6 where there was no association with glycated haemoglobin. A
significantly increased association was found between IL-22 and IFN-γ
plasmatic levels. Conclusion: Our study shows an increase in
characterized TB diabetics patients in cytokine response, signalizing
that type 2 diabetes potentially participate in chronic inﬂammation that
increases pathology and low control of tuberculosis.
Initial characteristics and follow-up of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors-induced angioedema
Authors: Chépy Aurélien , Véron Marie , Gautier Sophie , Farhat Meryem-Maud , Pokeerbux Ryadh , Venturelli Giorgia , Yelnik Cécile , Dubucquoi Sylvain , Podevin Céline , Jendoubi Manel , Citerne Isabelle , Baraffe Jennifer , Staumont-Sallé Delphine , Launay David , Sanges Sébastien
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Differential diagnosis between angiotensin converting
enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) angioedema (AE) and idiopathic histaminergic AE
(ihAE) is often challenging. Follow-up data may help discriminate these
conditions but are scarcely reported. Our objective was to report on the
follow-up of patients with suspected ACEi-AE and to describe the
baseline characteristics of AE attacks in patients with a diagnosis
confirmed by follow-up. Methods: Sixty-four patients with suspected
ACEi-AE (i.e. with exposure to ACEi before first attack, no urticaria
associated and normal C1-inhibitor levels) and at least one follow-up
visit were included. Data were retrospectively collected at baseline and
during follow-up. Results: After follow-up, the diagnosis of ACEi-AE was
confirmed in only 30 patients. The remaining patients were reclassified
as ihAE (21 patients) or undetermined-mechanism AE (13 patients). In
ACEi-AE patients, attacks occurred mostly in men (61%) with a median
age of 64 (interquartile range 17) years old, with a highly variable
delay from ACEi introduction (23103 months), and preferential
involvement of lips (50%), tongue (47%) and throat (30%). Patients
with confirmed ACEi-AE frequently reported classical histaminergic
features, such as history of allergy and atopic conditions (20%),
attacks with preferential evening onset (25%) and spontaneous
resolution <24h (26%). ACEi-AE attacks responded to icatibant
(79%). Conclusion: A final diagnosis of ihAE is frequent in patients
with an initial suspicion of ACEi-AE; and follow-up should be
systematically performed to ascertain the diagnosis in this population.
Baseline clinical features seem insufficient to accurately discriminate
between ACEi-AE and histaminergic AE, highlighting an unmet need for
diagnostic biomarkers.
Theoretical investigation of some under clinical trial drug on spike protein of coronavirus
Authors: mahnam karim , Ghobadi Zahra
Published: January 2024

Spike protein of coronavirus is a key protein in binding and entrance of
virus to the human cell via binding to the RBD domain of S1 subunit to
PD region of ACE2 receptor. In this study, the possible effect of 24
under clinical trial drugs and also four ligands as a control on the RBD
domain of spike protein was investigated via docking and molecular
dynamics simulation. At first, all drugs docked to the RBD domain of
spike protein and then all complexes and free RBD domain separately used
for molecular dynamics simulation for 50 ns via amber18 software. The
simulation results showed that ten drugs from 24 drugs were separated
from the RBD domain and among 12 remained drugs Baloxavir marboxil and
Danoprevir drugs besides endonuclease activity and protease inhibitory
can bind to key residues of the RBD domain. Then these drugs have a dual
function and more experimental studies should be done on Baloxavir
marboxil and Danoprevir as potential drugs for covid 19 disease.
Glucocorticoids and rates of biphasic reactions in patients with adrenaline-treated anaphylaxis
Authors: Nagata Shimpei , Ohbe Hiroyuki , Jo Taisuke , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: January 2024

Background: The effectiveness of glucocorticoids in preventing biphasic
reactions in patients with anaphylaxis is still controversial. We
evaluated the effects of glucocorticoids on rates of biphasic reactions
in patients with anaphylaxis treated with adrenaline. Methods: In this
retrospective observational study using a national inpatient database in
Japan, we identified 31,570 patients with anaphylaxis treated with
adrenaline on the day of admission. We divided them into two groups:
those who were treated with adrenaline plus glucocorticoids and those
who received adrenaline only on the day of admission. We performed a
one-to-four propensity score matching analysis between the two groups.
The primary outcome was occurrence of a biphasic reaction and the
secondary outcome was 7-day all-cause mortality. Results: Of the 31,570
eligible patients, 28,145 (89.2%) were treated with glucocorticoids.
After propensity score matching, there were no significant differences
in rates of biphasic reactions (odds ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence
interval, 0.86–1.24; p=0.14) or 7-day all-cause mortality (odds ratio,
0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.40–1.17; p=0.16) between patients
with anaphylaxis treated with and without glucocorticoids. Conclusion:
Our findings do not support the use of glucocorticoids to prevent
biphasic reactions in patients with severe anaphylaxis requiring
adrenaline.