bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of [89Zr]Zr-hCD103.Fab01A and [68Ga]Ga-hCD103.Fab01A for PET imaging to noninvasively assess cancer reactive T cell infiltration: Fab-based CD103 immunoPET
Authors: Fan Xiaoyu , Ważyńska Marta A. , Kol Arjan , Perujo Holland Noemi , Fernandes Bruna , van Duijnhoven Sander M. J. , Plat Annechien , van Eenennaam Hans , Elsinga Philip H. , Nijman Hans W. , de Bruyn Marco
Published: November 2023

Background

CD103 is an integrin specifically expressed on the surface of cancer-reactive T cells. The number of CD103+ T cells significantly increases during successful immunotherapy and might therefore be an attractive biomarker for noninvasive PET imaging of immunotherapy response. Since the long half-life of antibodies preclude repeat imaging of CD103+ T cell dynamics early in therapy, we therefore here explored PET imaging with CD103 Fab fragments radiolabeled with a longer (89Zr) and shorter-lived radionuclide (68Ga).

Methods

Antihuman CD103 Fab fragment Fab01A was radiolabeled with 89Zr or 68Ga, generating [89Zr]Zr-hCD103.Fab01A and [68Ga]Ga-hCD103.Fab01A, respectively. In vivo evaluation of these tracers was performed in male nude mice (BALB/cOlaHsd-Foxn1nu) with established CD103-expressing CHO (CHO.CD103) or CHO-wildtype (CHO.K1) xenografts, followed by serial PET imaging and ex vivo bio-distribution.

Results

[89Zr]Zr-hCD103.Fab01A showed high tracer uptake in CD103+ xenografts as early as 3 h post-injection. However, the background signal remained high in the 3- and 6-h scans. The background was relatively low at 24 h after injection with sufficient tumor uptake. [68Ga]Ga-hCD103.Fab01Ashowed acceptable uptake and signal-to-noise ratio in CD103+ xenografts after 3 h, which decreased at subsequent time points.

Conclusion

[89Zr]Zr-hCD103.Fab01A demonstrated a relatively low background and high xenograft uptake in scans as early as 6 h post-injection and could be explored for repeat imaging during immunotherapy in clinical trials. 18F or 64Cu could be explored as alternative to 68Ga in optimizing half-life and radiation burden of the tracer.
Estimation of aboveground biomass and carbon stocks of Quercus ilex L. saplings using UAV-derived RGB imagery
Authors: Juan-Ovejero R. , Elghouat A. , Navarro C. J. , Reyes-Martín M. P. , Jiménez M. N. , Navarro F. B. , Alcaraz-Segura D. , Castro J.
Published: November 2023

Key message

Crown area, sapling height, and biovolume extracted from UAV-acquired RGB images provided accurate estimates of aboveground biomass and carbon stocks in a 5-year-old holm oak (Quercus ilex L.) plantation. Our models regressing UAV-derived sapling variables against ground-based measurements exhibited high R2 values (0.78–0.89), thereby reflecting that RGB data can be used as an effective tool for measuring young individuals.

Context

The monitoring of tree sapling performance from the early stages of reforestation is of particular importance in the context of the global efforts to restore forests. Yet, most models to estimate carbon sequestration are developed for adult trees. Thus, the few models specifically developed for young trees rely on ground-based field sampling of tree growth parameters, which is time-consuming and difficult to implement at large spatial scales.

Aims

Our objectives were as follows: (1) to study the potential of UAV-based RGB imagery to detect and extract sapling variables (e.g., crown area, height, and biovolume) by comparing ground-based sapling measurements with UAV-derived data and (2) to compare the accuracy of the data estimated from RGB imagery with existing traditional field-based allometric equations.

Methods

We used a 5-year-old holm oak (Quercus ilex L. subsp. ballota (Desf.) Samp.) plantation (N = 617 plants), and their crown area, height, and biovolume were estimated from RGB imagery. Subsequently, the plants were harvested and the UAV-derived data were compared with field-measured sapling height and aboveground biomass values. Carbon content in leaves and stems was measured in a subsample of the saplings to estimate carbon stocks.

Results

The models fitted with UAV-derived variables displayed high performance, with R2 values from 0.78 to 0.89 for height, leaf and stem biomass, total aboveground biomass, and carbon stocks. Moreover, aboveground biomass outputs calculated with field height and UAV-derived height using allometric equations exhibited R2 values from 0.65 to 0.68.

Conclusions

Given the affordable cost of RGB cameras and the versatility of drones, we suggest that UAV-based models may be a cost-effective method to estimate the biomass and carbon stocks of young plantations. However, further studies conducting drone flights in different conditions are needed to make this approach more scalable.
Stability analysis for set-valued inverse mixed variational inequalities in reflexive Banach spaces
Authors: Qu Xiaolin , Li Wei , Xing Chenkai , Luo Xueping
Published: November 2023

This work is devoted to the analysis for a new class of set-valued inverse mixed variational inequalities (SIMVIs) in reflexive Banach spaces, when both the mapping and the constraint set are perturbed simultaneously by two parameters. Several equivalence characterizations are given for SIMVIs to have nonempty and bounded solution sets. Based on the equivalence conditions, under the premise of monotone mappings, the stability result for the SIMVIs is obtained in the reflexive Banach space. Furthermore, to illustrate the results, an example of the traffic network equilibrium control problem is provided at the end of this paper. The results presented in this paper generalize and extend some known results in this area.
Community evaluation of the physical and insecticidal durability of DuraNet® Plus, an alpha-cypermethrin and piperonyl butoxide incorporated mosquito net: protocol for a multi-country study in West, Central and East Africa
Authors: Agbevo Abel , Ahogni Idelphonse , Menze Benjamin , Tungu Patrick , Kemibala Elison E. , Govoetchan Renaud , Wondji Charles , Padonou Germain Gil , Ngufor Corine
Published: November 2023

Background

Pyrethroid-PBO nets have demonstrated improved impact against clinical malaria transmitted by pyrethroid resistant mosquito vectors and are being scaled up across Africa. However very little is known about their physical and insecticidal durability under operational conditions. This study will investigate the attrition, fabric integrity, insecticide content and bioefficacy of DuraNet® Plus, a new WHO prequalified alphacypermethrin and PBO incorporated net developed by Shobikaa Impex Private Limited over 3 years of field use in communities in Benin, Cameroon and Tanzania.

Methods

The study will be conducted in parallel in selected villages in Zakpota District in Benin, Mbalmayo, District in Cameroon and Muheza District in Tanzania. In each country, ~ 1800 households will be recruited and randomised to receive DuraNet® Plus or DuraNet® (a WHO prequalified alphacypermethrin-only ITN). Follow up surveys will be performed at 1 month post distribution to investigate adverse events and subsequently every 6–12 months to assess ITN attrition and fabric integrity following standard WHO procedures. A second cohort of nets will be withdrawn every 6–12 months and assessed for alpha-cypermethrin and PBO content and for entomological activity in laboratory bioassays (cone bioassays and tunnel tests). Alpha-cypermethrin bioefficacy will be monitored using the susceptible Anopheles gambiae Kisumu strain in cone bioassays while PBO bioefficacy will be monitored using pyrethroid resistant strains with overexpressed P450 enzymes in tunnel tests to determine the proportion of efficacious nets (≥ 95% knockdown, ≥ 80% mortality or ≥ 90% blood feeding inhibition in tunnels) at each time point. Nets withdrawn at 12, 24 and 36 months from each country will also be tested in experimental hut trials against wild free-flying pyrethroid resistant Anopheles gambiae sl in Côvè Benin to investigate the superiority of DuraNet® Plus over DuraNet® at each time point under semi field conditions.

Conclusion

This large-scale multi country trial will provide useful information on the durability of a pyrethroid-PBO net (DuraNet® Plus) in 3 different regions in sub-Saharan Africa. The methods proposed for bioefficacy testing could also contribute towards the development of new standardised guidelines for monitoring the insecticidal efficacy of pyrethroid-PBO nets under operational conditions.
Treating patients with geographic atrophy: are we there yet?
Authors: Antonio-Aguirre Bani , Arevalo J. Fernando
Published: November 2023

Geographic atrophy (GA) is a progressive degenerative disease that significantly contributes to visual impairment in individuals aged 50 years and older. The development of GA is influenced by various modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, including age, smoking, and specific genetic variants, particularly those related to the complement system regulators. Given the multifactorial and complex nature of GA, several treatment approaches have been explored, such as complement inhibition, gene therapy, and cell therapy. The recent approval by the Food and Drug Administration of pegcetacoplan, a complement C3 inhibitor, marks a significant breakthrough as the first approved treatment for GA. Furthermore, numerous interventions are currently in phase II or III trials, alongside this groundbreaking development. In light of these advancements, this review provides a comprehensive overview of GA, encompassing risk factors, prevalence, genetic associations, and imaging characteristics. Additionally, it delves into the current landscape of GA treatment, emphasizing the latest progress and future considerations. The goal of starting this discussion is to ultimately identify the most suitable candidates for each therapy, highlight the importance of tailoring treatments to individual cases, and continue monitoring the long-term implications of these emerging interventions.
Metallacages with 2,6-dipicolinoylbis(N,N-dialkylthioureas) as novel platforms in nuclear medicine for 68Ga, 177Lu and 198Au
Authors: Baitullina Anna , Claude Guilhem , Sucena Suelen F. , Nisli Eda , Scholz Cedric , Bhardwaj Punita , Amthauer Holger , Brenner Winfried , Geppert Christopher , Gorges Christian , Abram Ulrich , da Silva Maia Pedro Ivo , Spreckelmeyer Sarah
Published: November 2023

Background

Heterometallic gold metallacages are of great interest for the incorporation of several cations. Especially in nuclear medicine, those metallacages can serve as a platform for radionuclides relevant for imaging or therapy (e.g. 68Ga or 177Lu). Moreover, the radionuclide 198Au is an attractive beta emitter, for potential application in nuclear medicine. Here, we aim to synthesize a new set of gold metallacages and to study their ability to coordinate to 68Ga, 177Lu and 198Au.

Results

New heterometallic gold metallacages of composition [M{Au(Lmorph-κS)}3] (M = La3+, Tb3+, Lu3+ or Y3+) and [Ga{Au(Lmorph-κS)}2]NO3 have been synthesized from 2,6-dipicolinoylbis(N,N-morpholinylthiourea) (H2Lmorph) with [AuCl(THT)] and the target M3+ metal ions in yields ranging from 33 (Lu) to 62% (Tb). The characterization of the compounds bases on ESI–MS, 1H NMR, IR, EA and single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques (all except the Ga derivative). Selected gold cages derived from H2Lmorph were compared to previously reported gold cages that were derived from 2,6-dipicolinoylbis(N,N-diethylthiourea) (H2Ldiethyl). The tested metallacages show similar IC50 values close to that of auranofin in four different cancer cell lines (MCF-7, PC-3, U383, U343), e.g. 4.5 ± 0.7 µM for [Ga{Au(Ldiethyl)}2]NO3 on PC-3. The radiolabeling experiments thereof show high radiochemical purities with 68Ga and 198Au and low radiochemical purity with 177Lu.

Conclusions

The results indicate that these gold metallacages could serve as a novel platform for inclusion of different (radio)nuclides with potential theranostic applications in nuclear medicine.
Development and content validation of a sunlight exposure diary in patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria
Authors: Mathias Susan D. , Burke Laurie , Colwell Hilary H. , Mensing George , Savage Will , Naik Hetanshi
Published: November 2023

Background

Erythropoietic protoporphyria is a rare, inherited disorder presenting in early childhood with severe, painful phototoxicity. EPP has significant impacts on health-related quality of life, though there is variable disease severity. Accurately capturing how much time individuals with EPP can spend outdoors before they develop symptoms is critical to understanding HRQoL and measuring therapeutic response. Therefore, the goal of this study was to develop a comprehensive and content valid sun exposure diary to assess the efficacy of new therapies in individuals with EPP.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were conducted with adult and adolescent EPP participants, as well as five clinical experts, to obtain their input on the content of an existing sun exposure diary. Revisions to the diary were made based on evidence generated in cognitive debriefing interviews analyzed in eight consecutive groups of EPP participant.

Results

Interviews were conducted with 17 adults and 6 adolescents with EPP. The average age of adults was 40 years and of adolescents was 14 years. Clinical experts thought the original diary needed clarification on the description of symptoms, how time outdoors was captured, and the distinction between direct vs. indirect sunlight. Participants with EPP also noted these items needed revision, and that the distinction between prodromal symptoms and full reaction symptoms should be clarified. In the final diary version, participants with EPP found most items to be clear and easy to complete/think about. Seventy-six percent of participants (13/17) asked thought the diary was easy to complete. The remainder thought the majority of the diary was easy to complete with the exception of select questions.

Conclusions

Evaluating a new treatment for EPP requires accurately capturing time in sunlight and symptoms in this unique disorder. The newly developed sun exposure diary is content valid and can be used to assess important aspects of symptoms and daily life and therefore evaluate clinically meaningful therapeutic response.
Qualitative differences in perspective on children’s quality of life between children with cerebral palsy and their parents
Authors: Swift Elena , Gibbs Lisa , Reddihough Dinah , Mackinnon Andrew , Davis Elise
Published: November 2023

Background

Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common childhood disabilities, impacting many areas of a child’s life. Increasingly, quality of life (QOL) measures are used to capture holistic wellbeing of children with CP. However most validated QOL measures for children are based on adult perspective only, with limited focus on child perspective. Conceptual differences between children’s and adults’ definitions of QOL may reflect different underlying QOL models which contribute to measurement score divergence. This qualitative study investigated the conceptual meaning of QOL for children with CP, comparing child and parent perspectives. Eighteen families completed 8 child interviews and 18 parent interviews. Children (11 boys, 7 girls) represented the spectrum of motor functioning, with comorbidities including epilepsy, intellectual disability, and communication impairments. Child and parent interviews were analysed separately using constructivist grounded theory methods and then findings were integrated to examine similarities and differences.

Results

All participants sought child inclusion in social activities, education, and recreation, requiring negotiation, adaptations, and advocacy. Five conceptual categories emerged from child interviews: socialising, play, negotiating limitations, self-identity, and developing agency. This reflected an individual model of QOL supporting child development goals. Parent interview findings revealed concepts related to child-specific QOL (day-to-day functioning and enabling child goals), as well as parent and family functioning concepts aligned to models of “family QOL”, embracing impacts of family relationships and the interdependence of QOL among family members.

Conclusions

This study identified similarities and differences in child and parent perceptions of QOL for the child with CP. Children provided insights into the importance of play and peer support, and their developing self-identity and sense of agency. Self-directed free play, especially, was identified by children but not parents as a central everyday activity promoting wellbeing and social inclusion. Parents discussed family functioning and aspects outside of child sight, such as managing time and financial resources. Relying on parents’ perspective alone to model child QOL misses valuable information that children contribute. Equally, child report alone misses parent experiences that directly influence child QOL. There is value in incorporating family QOL into parent reports while developing a conceptually separate child self-report QOL instrument.
Evaluation of the autonomic nervous system in patients with essential tremor
Authors: Nassar Mahmoud H. , Tageldin Elsayed A. , Ragab Osama A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Essential tremor (ET) is a prevalent movement disorder that may be linked to neurodegenerative changes. It is marked by a mix of motor and non-motor symptoms, which include disturbances in the autonomic nervous system. Aim of the study: We aimed to assess autonomic dysfunction in individuals with essential tremor. Thirty patients with essential tremor (Group 1) and 30 age and sex-matched healthy subjects as the control group (Group 2) were recruited. Comprehensive medical and neurological examinations were conducted on all participants, followed by electrophysiological assessments of autonomic function, including heart rate variability (HRV) tests (E/I ratio, Valsalva ratio, 30:15 ratio), adrenergic tests (blood pressure responses to active standing and sustained hand grip), and sympathetic skin response (SSR) tests. Finally, the results of these tests were classified according to the Ewing classification of autonomic failure. Results: The study revealed significant differences between ET patients and the control group. Heart rate variability tests showed a marked difference between the groups. Adrenergic tests, measuring sympathetic innervation, also displayed a significant difference. The sudomotor function test exhibited noteworthy differences in onset latencies and amplitudes in the palm and sole, with ET patients showing prolonged onset latencies and decreased amplitudes. Moreover, the study found a significant correlation between disease severity and autonomic function test results and the Ewing score. Conclusion: The study highlights the presence of autonomic dysfunction in essential tremor patients, with disease severity being associated with the level of autonomic affection, as evidenced by various autonomic function tests and the Ewing score.
Multifocal thoracic intradural extramedullary anaplastic ependymoma: case report and review of the literature
Authors: De Bonis Costanzo , Gazzeri Roberto , Gorgoglione Leonardo
Published: November 2023

Background

Ependymomas are neuroectodermal tumors that grow from the ependymal cells of the ventricles or the central canal of the spinal cord. When the ependymoma is anaplastic, extramedullary, intradural and multifocal, it is a very rare anatomical entity, same as case described by us.

Case presentation

A 44-year-old man had been admitted to our hospital for progressive paralysis of both legs over the past 5 weeks. Contrast-enhanced MRI showed intradural extramedullary tumor at T11 with cord compression and an other more little tumor at T6 level, also intradural and extramedullary. The largest lesion was completely removed by laminectomy. Histology documented an anaplastic ependymoma. Contrast-enhanced brain and spinal MRI showed the results of the previous surgery.

Conclusion

Multifocal intradural extramedullary anaplastic ependymomas are very rare entity. Surgery is the main treatment that can improve prognosis, while radiotherapy is useful, after surgery, in the treatment of residues, recurrences, anaplastic transformations, metastases and multifocal lesions.
Bethesda Category III thyroid nodules: descriptive cytological aspects of a series
Authors: Rocha Júlia Thalita Queiroz , Kanda Rafael Guimarães , Marques Mariangela Esther Alencar , Tagliarini José Vicente , da Silva Mazeto Glaucia Maria Ferreira , Oliveira Cristiano Claudino
Published: November 2023

Background

The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (TBSRTC) is used for cytopathological diagnosis of fine needle aspiration (FNA) of thyroid nodules (TN). Diagnosis of Bethesda Category III (CIII) has estimated malignancy rates of around 10%-30%, which vary between different institutions. Objective. To review cases of FNA interpreted as CIII thyroid nodules. To evaluate cytopathological criteria used to interpret FNA for CIII thyroid nodules and the associations between cytological and radiological aspects. To determine the malignancy rate of thyroid nodules classified as CIII, based on the correlation with surgical procedure. Methods. Retrospective study of FNA’s cytologic criteria of TN classified as CIII, carried out between 2010 and 2016. The patients included in the study were those who underwent the first FNA in the service and who were diagnosed with CIII. The patients had their cytological slides and medical records reviewed to detect the conduct flow followed after the CIII diagnosis. All cases that had histological slides available of their thyroidectomy products, total or partial, reviewed. The associations between clinical, histological and cytological findings were statistically studied. Results. Among 63 patients with resected nodules, 17 (27%) were malignant, 13 of which were papillary thyroid carcinomas. Among the benign cases, 18 patients (28.1%) had chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis/Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Papillae (p = .004) was the criterion best associated with the diagnosis of malignancy. Conclusion. The malignancy rate was consistent with the rate of malignancy predicted in the TBSRTC. It is important to point out that the sample of this study is relatively small, which compromises specific evaluations and reduces the robustness of the observed data. CIII is extensively studied in the literature, however there is still a need for more precise studies regarding the correlations between cytological findings and other parameters. Probably, more than other categories, CIII may require a combination of cytological, radiological and clinical interpretation, with pathology leading role in this diagnosis process.
Water woes: the institutional challenges in achieving SDG 6
Authors: Evaristo Jaivime , Jameel Yusuf , Tortajada Cecilia , Wang Raymond Yu , Horne James , Neukrug Howard , David Carlos Primo , Fasnacht Angela Maria , Ziegler Alan D. , Biswas Asit
Published: November 2023

Background

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 envisions a future where everyone has access to clean water and sanitation. Yet, as 2030 looms closer, the complexity of achieving this target becomes apparent, with issues far surpassing basic water infrastructure and utility challenges. The underlying problems lie in broader spheres such as governance, policymaking, and financing.

Main body

The global landscape of water management is marked by complexities that transcend the operational troubles of water utilities. Financial sustainability is a monumental task. And while it is true that water utilities struggle with revenue generation, the broader picture reveals systemic challenges. The true cost of water provision often extends to ecosystem services such as watershed protection. Often, these services are not internalized in the revenue models of utilities but are typically subsidized by governments or simply not considered. Balancing affordability for users with cost recovery for service providers, however, is not just an arithmetic exercise. It is also a question of equitable policies. Non-revenue water (NRW), resulting from physical losses such as leaks, theft, and inaccurate [or lack of] metering, exacerbates existing financial strain. Annual NRW losses are estimated at an astonishing 126 billion cubic meters, costing roughly USD 39 billion. But at the most fundamental level of achieving SDG 6 is misgovernance. Effective water governance demands consistent policies, coherent collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and comprehensive strategies that cater to specific regional contexts. Current models often suffer from fragmented policies, inadequate public-private partnerships, and weak engagement mechanisms. A glaring gap exists between academic advancements in water management and their practical implementation in policymaking. Moreover, international cooperation, while vital, reveals an unequal landscape in knowledge exchange. Knowledge transfer is often skewed, favoring dominant nations while sidelining voices from the Global South. This emphasizes the need for an inclusive, equitable, and context-specific global cooperation model.

Conclusion

The road to realizing SDG 6 is multifaceted, and while on-the-ground solutions are essential, the real success lies in addressing the foundational challenges. This requires innovative financial solutions, reimagining water governance structures, and ensuring all voices, especially from the Global South, are heard and integrated into global policies. As 2030 nears, it is the synergy of governance, finance, and technology that will ultimately make clean water and sanitation a reality for all.
Abiraterone, a rare cause of severe perioperative hypokalemia with unusual presentation as aphonia and quadriparesis: a case report
Authors: Thakore Sakshi , Kaasat Ankita , Thakore Nirdesh , Chundawat Yatendra Singh
Published: November 2023

Background

Oral Abiraterone acetate is a novel antineoplastic agent approved by the FDA for the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. Abiraterone is an irreversible inhibitor of the 17α-hydroxylase (CYP17) enzyme complex resulting in a reduction of androgens and corticosteroids. It may cause mineralocorticoid excess syndrome; hence, it is prescribed with steroids. Here we describe a case of postoperative severe hypokalemia with unusual presentation in a patient after spine surgery in which abiraterone with prednisolone was continued preoperatively. Anesthetic concerns about the perioperative administration of abiraterone have not been reported in the literature.

Case presentation

An 80-year-old male with a known case of metastatic prostate cancer was posted for spine surgery under general anesthesia. Surgery was uneventful and the patient was extubated after ensuring adequate muscle power and respiratory parameters. Postoperatively, the patient developed aphonia, quadriparesis, and respiratory distress leading to reintubation. After evaluation, severe grade 4 hypokalemia was found to be the causative factor. The patient recovered well after potassium and steroid supplementation. Low potassium and cortisol levels indicate a diagnosis of abiraterone-induced hypokalemia.

Conclusion

Patients on abiraterone require more stringent and vigilant monitoring of potassium and cortisol levels. In such circumstances, it might be advantageous to add additional steroids or substitute alternative steroids.
Synergism study of Bacopa monnieri and Piriformospora indica and its impact on Biomass and metabolite
Authors: Kharde Ashok V. , Kore Supriya V. , Singh Raghvendra P. , Khetmalas Madhukar B.
Published: November 2023

Background

A symbiotic connection between Piriformospora indica and Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettest, obtained through co-cultivation synergism, was found to improve growth, biomass production, and bacoside content in the plants. Brahmi (B. monnieri L.), a well-known Indian plant prized for its memory-boosting properties, has a lengthy history and a premium price tag. Because of its remarkable ability to colonize a wide variety of plant species, the axenically cultivable mycorrhiza-like endophytic fungus P. indica has gained a lot of interest recently.

Methods

In the current study, fungal spores from recently revived cultures were added to jam bottles next to rooted Brahmi plants for in vitro co-cultivation. The control plants were left without fungal discs. Pre-rooted micro-propagated Brahmi plants were treated with agar discs containing actively growing hyphae. For a period of 3 months, both trials were conducted with a fully randomized setup. Microscopy of the treated and control plant roots verified co-cultivation.

Results

Microscopic examination of the roots of co-cultivated plants reveals a high degree of colonization with host plants. These endophytic fungal structures include intracellular chlamydospores, and arbuscules, an intercellular and intracellular hyphae network, and a mycelial network on the root surface. In both in vitro and in vivo co-cultivation studies, the plant extended the host plant’s lifespan in 3 months by displaying continuous regeneration; in contrast, the control plant displayed signs of senescence. With biomass exceeding the control by 1.18 times in vivo and 1.28 times in vitro. In vitro, co-cultivation circumstances also led to an increase in the rate of utilization of nutritional medium. In comparison to the control, the amount of bacoside increases to 100% in vivo after a month of co-cultivation and 33% in vitro after 3 months.

Conclusions

In the present investigation, in vivo co-cultivation showed a favorable interaction effect on biomass production as well as bacoside content, which can satisfy the raw material demands of Brahmi plants in pharmaceutical industries.
Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of community-acquired pneumonia in children: an evidence-based clinical practice guideline adapted for the use in Egypt using ‘Adapted ADAPTE’
Authors: Hussien Shahenaz Mohamoud , Hamed Tarek , Mohamed Magda Hassab Allah , Rashad Mohamed Mahmoud , Elnady Hala Gouda , Metwally Hoda M. Salah El Din , Refay Amira S. El , Sobh Bahaa Mohammed , Fouda Eman Mahmoud , Shaaban Hala Hamdi , Elattar Mona Mohsen , Mostafa Abla Saleh , Hamed Dina Hossam-Eldine , Samir Aya , Raffat Sally , Saeed Maysaa Abdallah , Kamel Nevin Abdalah , Hebish Sarah Naeem Bartella , Radwan Zeinab , Al Sawah Ahmed , Abd-Alkhalek Karima , Baky Ashraf Abdel , Omar Tarek E. I. , Amer Yasser S. , Sarhan Dina Tawfeek
Published: November 2023

Background

We recently adapted a guideline for Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) in children to the Egyptian health system. Adaptation of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to the local healthcare context is a valid alternative to de novo development that can upgrade their application without enforcing a major burden on resources. The objective of this manuscript is to elucidate diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CAP as well as methods used for the adaptation process to produce the 1st National Guideline for Community-Acquired Pneumonia in children in Egypt using Adapted ADAPTE method. The full process was described extensively with all three phases of set up, adaptation, and finalization. An adaptation group and an external review including clinical content experts and methodologists conducted the process.

Results

The authors adapted 10 principal categories of recommendations from three source Clinical Practice Guidelines. Recommendations incorporate; common clinical manifestations, indications for hospitalization and intensive care unit admission, indications for laboratory investigations and radiology in diagnosis, choice of empiric antibiotic therapy in the outpatient and hospitalized children with non-complicated CAP and the duration of therapy, the role of influenza antiviral therapy, follow-up anticipated response to therapy, management of non-responding pneumonia, criteria of safe discharge, and prevention of CAP. Many tools were gathered and established to improve implement ability containing two clinical algorithms for management of non-complicated CAP and for non-responding pneumonia in children, pathway for assessment of severity of CAP in primary care facilities, medication tables, simplified Arabic patient information, PowerPoint slide presentation lecture for management of CAP, and online resources.

Conclusion

The final clinical guideline supports pediatricians and related healthcare workers with evidence-based applicable guidance for managing community-acquired pneumonia in Egypt. This work demonstrated the efficiency of Adapted ADAPTE and highlighted the importance of a cooperative clinical and methodological professional group for adaptation of national guidelines.
Social media psychology and mental health
Authors: Ahmed Jaafar Omer
Published: November 2023

Social networks have become a part of individual lives nowadays, and most of the world’s population participates and has accounts on different social networks. This is a new phenomenon specific to the twenty-first century, as a subject entirely related to the human mind in terms of psychology and psychiatry is at the beginning of research. This study aims to provide a psychological interpretation of social networking issues.

The motives for using social networks are summarized within five main motivations: affinity, human needs, self-expression, information acquisition, and personal utility. Individuals use these networks as a source to hide their true personalities and show imaginary and desirable personalities. Despite the enjoyment of networks, individuals face two major risks: revenge porn and online bullying. Online social networks have many effects and dangers on individual mental health, so excessive use causes depression, anxiety, violence, addiction, and body image distortions in individuals. Although researchers focus on the negative effects of social networks, they still have several benefits for individual health.
Ankylosing spondylitis impact on knee cartilage thickness: correlation with demographic data and clinical characteristics
Authors: Adel Omnia R. , Kamel Shereen R. , Mohamed Fatma A. , El Ameen Nadia F. , Darwish Ayman F.
Published: November 2023

Background

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a progressive inflammatory disease involving cartilaginous structures in the spine and peripheral joints. However, the number of the studies assessing knee cartilage thickness in AS and its correlations with parameters of disease activity/severity is even less. We aimed to assess the impact of AS on knee cartilage thickness using musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Twenty-five AS patients and 25 healthy individuals (15 served for MSUS assessment, and 10 served for MRI assessment) were included. By employing MRI “using a 1.5-T machine” and MSUS “with a 10–18-MHz linear probe,” respectively, the thickness of the femorotibial cartilage and femoral cartilage was assessed.

Results

Compared to healthy controls, AS patients showed statistically significantly thinner cartilage thickness (P < 0.05) at all femorotibial cartilage subdivisions and the medial femoral condyle and intercondylar area on both sides. Femoral cartilage thickness measurements either assessed by MSUS or MRI were negatively correlated with age, measures of disease activity, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Radiology Index for the spine (BASRI-s) (P < 0.05). However, MRI tibial cartilage thickness was negatively correlated with disease duration and measures of spinal mobility, functional limitation, and BASRI-s (P < 0.05). MRI total cartilage thickness measurements at the femoral condyle were negatively correlated with Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) and Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score-erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ASDAS ESR) (P = 0.04 and P = 0.03, respectively). A positive correlation was found between MSUS and MRI total femoral cartilage thickness (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

The knee cartilage thickness of AS patients was thinner than that of healthy controls. The correlations between cartilage thickness and patient variables demonstrate MSUS and MRI's utility in identifying knee cartilage loss areas in AS patients.
An interesting case report of delayed presentation of post-cholecystectomy benign biliary stricture
Authors: Haldeniya Kulbhushan , Gandhi Niranjan Rajkumar , Gorantla Haritha , Bukka Sindhura
Published: November 2023

Background The most common cause of benign biliary stricture is bile duct injury after cholecystectomy. Benign biliary strictures are associated with a broad spectrum of signs and symptoms, ranging from subclinical disease with mild elevation of liver enzymes to complete obstruction with jaundice, pruritis, and cholangitis ultimately leading to biliary cirrhosis. The average duration for stricture development after cholecystectomy is around 7 months. This is a case report of a benign biliary stricture presenting 14 years after laparoscopic conversion to open cholecystectomy without the development of recurrent cholangitis and secondary biliary cirrhosis.
A novel ANFIS-controlled customized UPQC device for power quality enhancement
Authors: Srimatha S. , Mallala Balasubbareddy , Upendar J.
Published: November 2023

Power quality is crucial for the reliable and efficient operation of domestic and industrial loads. Nonlinear power electronic converter loads have increased in usage, which has led to a decline in both voltage and current quality. To overcome these power quality issues, a universal power quality compensator (UPQC) has been developed and integrated into the power distribution network. The UPQC comprises dual active power filters which are equipped with a DC-link capacitor. The voltage of the DC-link capacitor is controlled by a DC-link voltage controller. However, the conventional PI controller is not suitable for regulating voltage at a defined level due to inappropriate gain values. In this work, we propose an intelligent adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system-based DC voltage controller for customized UPQC devices. The proposed control scheme aims to mitigate the existing power quality challenges by reducing the issues in classical controllers and incorporating intelligence knowledge with subjective decisions. Using the MATLAB/Simulink software tool, we have tested a customized UPQC device controlled by ANFIS for critical operation and performance. The simulation results are presented along with valid comparisons.
Development of novel gradient RP-HPLC method for separation of dapagliflozin and its process-related impurities: insight into stability profile and degradation pathway, identification of degradants using LCMS
Authors: Sunkara Bhawani , Tummalapalli Naga Venkata Ganesh Kumar
Published: November 2023

Background

In the dapagliflozin (DPF) synthesis, 5-Bromo-2-chlorobenzoic acid (5-BC impurity) and 4-Bromo-1-chloro-2-(4-ethoxybenzyl) benzene (4-BC impurity) are used as starting and reagent sources, respectively. The presence of 5-BC and 4-BC impurities in DPF could potentially affect the effectiveness of the final DPF product. The purpose of this investigation was to develop a stability indicating HPLC methodology for the separation of DPF, its process-related impurities and degradants. The method of analysis was developed on Xbridge Phenyl C18 column of dimensions, 250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm with gradient elution using mobile phase made up of 0.05% aqueous trifluoroacetic acid and acetonitrile (AcN).

Results

The method proposed indicates a good linearity (R2 = 0.9996 and 0.9993), good system precision (RSD ≤ 2%), good method precision (RSD ≤ 2%), accuracy (50–150%), LOD (0.000053 ppm and 0.0000165 ppm) and LOQ (0.00016 ppm and 0.00005 ppm) for 4-BC impurity and 5-BC impurity, respectively. LC–MS was used to detect and characterise degradants that were obtained in acid and base condition were identified and characterised. A comparison of the fragmentation pattern of the [M + H] + ions of DPF and its degradation products revealed the most likely processes for the generation of degradation products.

Conclusion

DPF sample quality can be evaluated using the suggested method for the presence of 4-BC impurity, 5-BC impurity and 2-(3-(4-ethoxy benzyl)-4-chloro phenyl)-tetrahydro-6-(hydroxy methyl)-2H-pyran-3,4,5-triol.
Resection of infected bulla associated with isolated unilateral absence of pulmonary artery: a case report
Authors: Kusano Megumi , Sakai Takashi , Yoshizawa Takahiro , Koezuka Satoshi , Azuma Yoko , Kishi Kazuma , Iyoda Akira
Published: November 2023

Background

A unilateral absence of the pulmonary artery (UAPA) is a rare congenital anomaly, which in most patients is associated with congenital cardiovascular abnormalities. Some patients with UAPAs do not have associated cardiovascular abnormalities, called isolated UAPA. Patients with isolated UAPA generally have a mild clinical course and may not be diagnosed until adulthood, but repeated complications such as infections may make surgery difficult.

Case presentation

A 34-year-old female patient with isolated right UAPA was referred to our hospital with a complaint of fever. Chest radiography and computed tomography showed an infectious cavity in the right upper lung. Surgery was scheduled for the patient; however, her preoperative condition needed to be optimized. She was evaluated for pulmonary hypertension and the collateral arteries were mapped out, and a waiting period after treatment of infection was set to avoid perioperative intrathoracic infections. Resection of the infected bulla was performed without any complications. No recurrence of infection was observed two years post-operatively. The residual lung expanded enough to fill the dead intrathoracic space.

Conclusions

This report suggests the importance of adequate preoperative evaluation and perioperative management for patients with isolated UAPA who require surgical resection.
Robust Q-compensated multidimensional impedance inversion using seislet-domain shaping regularization
Authors: Li Chao , Liu Guochang , Wang Zhiyong , Shi Lanting , Wu Qibin
Published: November 2023

Acoustic impedance (AI) inversion plays a vital role in seismic interpretation because AI contains valuable information on lithology and contributes to reservoir characterization. However, the effect of anelastic attenuation dissipates the energy and distorts the phase of seismic waves during their propagation in the earth. Such attenuation-induced effects will degrade the quality of AI inversion unless some preprocessing routines are performed in advance (e.g., inverse Q filtering). In order to invert for AI from nonstationary seismic data directly and enhance the lateral continuity, we have developed a robust Q-compensated multidimensional AI inversion method. The proposed method incorporates the Q-filtering operator into the conventional convolution model and provides an improved iteration scheme, which can avoid some of the errors introduced by those compensation-related processing routines. Furthermore, with the help of seislet nonlinear shaping regularization, the proposed method can accelerate the convergence rate during inversion and further improve the lateral continuity and accuracy of the final inverted results in the presence of noise. Synthetic and field data have been used to validate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method. The results demonstrate that compared with the conventional method, the proposed method can retrieve AI from nonstationary seismic data directly with improved efficiency and remove those possible artifacts caused by ambient noise.
Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Kelly Kara M. , Friedberg Jonathan W.
Published: November 2023

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) represents one of the more common cancers occurring in adolescent and young adults (AYAs) age 15-39 years. Despite a generally high cure rate, age-related differences in HL biology and the optimal therapeutic approaches including supportive care and risks for long-term adverse effects in the AYA population remain understudied. After an overview of HL epidemiology and biology in the AYA population, this review will cover frontline pediatric and adult treatment approaches. Recently completed and ongoing studies will foster harmonization of risk group definition and trial eligibility criteria across the AYA spectrum, enabling more rapid progress. In addition to treatment approaches, an evolving holistic care approach to AYA HL will result in enhanced understanding of unique challenges, and continued improved short- and long-term outcome for these patients.
Using Animal Models for Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy
Authors: Aghi Krisha , Goetz Teddy G , Pfau Daniel R , Sun Simón(e) D , Guthman Eartha Mae , Roepke Troy A
Published: November 2023

We have recently proposed experimental design guidelines and areas of study for preclinical rodent models of gender-affirming hormone therapy in neuroscience. These guidelines also apply to any field subject to the influences of gonadal steroid hormones, including metabolism and growth, cancer, and physiology. This perspective briefly describes our suggestions for these fields. Studying the effects of exogenous steroid hormones will have translational benefits for the community. We also discuss the need for equitable practices for cisgender scientists who wish to implement these guidelines and engage with the community. It is necessary that community-informed practices are implemented in preclinical research to maximize the benefit to transgender, nonbinary, and/or gender diverse (TNG) healthcare, which is currently in jeopardy in the United States, Europe, and across the globe.
Aberrant centrosome biogenesis disrupts nephron and collecting duct progenitor growth and fate resulting in fibrocystic kidney disease
Authors: Cheng Tao , Agwu Chidera , Shim Kyuhwan , Wang Baolin , Jain Sanjay , Mahjoub Moe R.
Published: November 2023

Mutations that disrupt centrosome biogenesis or function cause congenital kidney developmental defects and fibrocystic pathologies. Yet how centrosome dysfunction results in the kidney disease phenotypes remains unknown. Here, we examined the consequences of conditional knockout of the ciliopathy gene Cep120, essential for centrosome duplication, in the nephron and collecting duct progenitor niches of the mouse embryonic kidney. Cep120 loss led to reduced abundance of both cap mesenchyme and ureteric bud populations, due to a combination of delayed mitosis, increased apoptosis and premature differentiation of progenitor cells. These defects resulted in dysplastic kidneys at birth, which rapidly formed cysts, displayed increased interstitial fibrosis and decline in kidney function. RNA sequencing of embryonic and postnatal kidneys from Cep120-null mice identified changes in the pathways essential for development, fibrosis and cystogenesis. Our study defines the cellular and developmental defects caused by centrosome dysfunction during kidney morphogenesis and identifies new therapeutic targets for patients with renal centrosomopathies.