bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yacoub valve-sparing aortic root replacement with a concomitant repair of Tetralogy of Fallot: a case report
Authors: Ling Yunfei , Cao Zhongze , An Qi
Published: January 2024

Here we report a case of a previously unoperated 35-year-old male TOF
patient. He was admitted due to dyspnea, initial physical examination
demonstrated cyanosis and heart murmurs. Echocardiography suggested
secundum atrial septal defect, perimembranous ventricular septal defect
and mild-severe aortic regurgitation. Computed tomography angiography
indicated aortic root dilation and suspicious right coronary artery
aneurysm. Concurrent repair of TOF and VSARR was performed successfully
and the patient had a satisfactory recovery.
Enrichment of the rebaudioside A concentration in Stevia rebaudiana extract with cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase from Bacillus licheniformis DSM 13
Authors: Czinkóczky Réka , Nemeth Aron
Published: January 2024

Stevia rebaudiana is a sweet herbaceous perennial plant, which is
frequently used in the preparation of plant-based sweeteners. The demand
for such sweeteners continues to increase due to purposeful nutrition
and modern-day metabolic syndromes. More than 20 types of steviol
glycosides provide a sweet taste, which are more than 300 times sweeter
than sucrose. They are formed of two main components, namely stevioside
and rebaudioside A. Only a handful of studies have dealt with Stevia
rebaudiana leaf extracts, the conversion of pure stevioside into the
preferred rebaudioside A is more common. The aim of this study was to
enrich the rebaudioside A content of Stevia rebaudiana leaf extract
using enzymatic bioconversion by applying fermented cyclodextrin
glycosyltransferase from Bacillus licheniformis DSM13. Two differently
processed plant materials, namely dried and lyophilized Stevia
rebaudiana plants, were extracted and compared. Following the
bioconversion, the rebaudioside A content was on average doubled. The
maximum increase was fivefold with a 70-80% conversion of the
stevioside.
The Association Between Mean Neutrophil Volume and Dipping Status in Newly Diagnosed Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Ateş Muhammet , Yalcın Muhammed Ulvi , Tunçez Abdullah , Demir Kenan , Aygül Nazif , Altunkeser Bülent Behlül
Published: January 2024

Introduction Little is known regarding the pathogenesis of essential
hypertension despite the great amount of research data in this field,
yet an association of hypertension with inflammation has been shown,
like in other chronic diseases. We aimed to investigate the relationship
between the inflammatory response indicator and mean neutrophil volume
(MNV) in patients newly diagnosed with hypertension. Materials and
Methods Medical records of patients newly diagnosed with hypertension
(HT) were retrospectively reviewed. Healthy patients with normal
ambulatory blood pressure records were also included as a control group.
Newly diagnosed hypertensive patients were further divided into two
groups according to their immersion status. Results Two hundred
twenty-two patients were included in the current study. While 104
patients had HT, 118 subjects were normotensive. MNV was significantly
higher in hypertensive group when than normotensive group (140,3
(135,1-145,5) vs. 144,1 (136,1-152,1), p=0.001). In the hypertensive
group, 51 patients had dipper hypertension and 53 patients had
non-dipper hypertension. MNV was significantly higher in non-dipper
hypertension group (145,7 (138,1-153,46) vs. 142,3 (134,3-150,3),
p=0.022). Multivariate regression analysis revealed MNV [95%
confidence interval (CI): 1,006-1,122, p = .032] and PWV [95%
confidence interval (CI): 1,203-2,655, p = .004] were independently
associated with the non- dipping status in newly diagnosed hypertensive
patients. Conclusion A significant increase in MNV is present among
patients with hypertension when compared to the normotensive patients.
In addition, increased MNV measurements were associated with non-dipper
HT.
Blocking Axonal Transportation of Neurotrophin Prevents Myocardial Infarction Induced Sympathetic and Cardiac Remodeling
Authors: Sun Lin , Wang Suhuai , Cai Jianing , Liu Xudong , Liang Yanru , Wang Qian , Li Jingjie
Published: January 2024

Background: Nerve growth factor (NGF) and growth associated protein 43
(GAP43) are dramatically increased in damaged tissue after myocardial
infarction (MI) and proposed to retrogradely transport to left stellate
ganglion (LSG). In this study, we determine whether local ablation of
cardiac sympathetic nerves is able to block the neurothrophin
transportation. Methods and results: Forty rabbits were randomly
assigned into the sham-operated, MI and MI-ablation groups. Three days
after operation, the levels of NGF and GAP43 were determined in each
group. In MI group, the protein of NGF and GAP43 were both elevated in
infarcted border zone (IBZ) and LSG. The elevation of GAP43 protein was
correlated with the increase of its mRNA levels in both areas. However,
the elevation of NGF mRNA was displayed only in IBZ, not in LSG,
suggesting that the increase of NGF protein in LSG was possibly due to
its retrograde transportation from IBZ. Furthermore, local ablation of
sympathetic nerves leading to no increase of NGF protein in LSG post MI.
Correspondingly, GAP43 protein and mRNA were not increased in LSG, and
slightly elevated in IBZ, suggesting the upregulation of GAP43 in IBZ is
subjected to the influence of promoting signal from LSG. Four weeks
later, immunohistochemistry showed MI caused pronounced GAP43 and
tyrosine hydroxylase positive nerves in cardiac tissue, especially in
IBZ, which could be precluded by ablation. Conclusion: The local
ablation of cardiac sympathetic nerves blocks neurotrophin
transportation from damaged tissue to LSG post MI, and inhibits nerve
sprouting, sympathetic hyperinnervation and cardiac remodeling.
Accessory Pathway Ablation during Atrial fibrillation in Ebstein Anomaly: Benefits of Intracardiac Echocardiography and 3D intracardiac electrograms visualisation
Authors: Miyamoto Taro , Oginosawa Yasushi , Yagyu Keishiro , Yasunobu Yamagishi , Tsukahara Keita , Ohe Hisaharu , Kohno Ritsuko , Abe Haruhiko , Kataoka Masaharu
Published: January 2024

An 84-year-old woman with type B WPW with Ebstein anomaly was admitted
with heart failure. She had rapid wide QRS tachcardia due to accessory
pathway conduction associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). Since
transesophageal echocardiography before catheter ablation showed a left
atrial thrombus, ablation was performed using a 3D mapping system under
AF. After marking the functional tricuspid anulus with intracardiac
echocardiography, three dimensional intracardiac electrogram
visualization (ripple map) during AF enabled clear identification of
location of the accessory pathway. After ablation, there was no
complication of cerebral infarction and heart failure improved.
Peptides derived from vascular endothelial growth factor B show potent binding to neuropilin-1 Short Title: VEGFB peptides bind to neuropilin-1.
Authors: Mota Filipa , Yelland Tamas , Hutton Jennie , Parker Jennifer , Patsiarika Anastasia , Chan Edith , O'Leary Andrew , Fotinou Constantina , Martin John , Zachary Ian , Djordjevic Snezana , Frankel Paul , Selwood David
Published: January 2024

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) regulate significant pathways
in angiogenesis, myocardial and neuronal protection, metabolism, and
cancer progression. There is growing evidence that the VEGF-B isoform is
involved in cell survival, anti-apoptotic and antioxidant mechanisms,
through binding to VEGF receptor 1 and neuropilin-1 (NRP-1). However the
details of the interaction with NRP-1 and its functional importance have
not been elucidated. We employed surface plasmon resonance technology
and X-ray crystallography to characterize the direct binding between
VEGF-B and the b1 domain of NRP-1, and developed VEGF-B – C-terminus
derived peptides to be used as chemical tools for studying VEGF-B –
NRP-1 related pathways. Results were compared with the corresponding
VEGF-A derived peptides. Peptide lipidation was used as a means to
stabilise the peptides. The binding of VEGF-B to NRP1-b1 was inhibited
by a well characterized small molecule targeting the NRP1 arginine
binding site. A crystal structure of a peptide with NRP-1 demonstrated
that VEGF-B peptides bind at the canonical C-terminal Arginine binding
site. VEGF-B – derived peptides containing a C-terminal arginine show
potent binding to NRP1-b1 and inhibition of VEGF-A165 functional
activity in HUVEC cells. Peptide lipidation increased binding residence
time and improved plasma stability while maintaining binding affinity.
The VEGF-B C-terminus imparts higher affinity for NRP-1 than the
corresponding VEGF-A165 region. This binding is mediated through the
canonical arginine site and the tight binding may impact on the activity
and selectivity of the full-length protein. The VEGF-B167 derived
peptides were more effective than VEGF-A165 peptides in blocking
functional phosphorylation events.
Analysis of long-term antibody response in COVID-19 patients by symptoms grade, gender, age, BMI, and treatments regimens
Authors: Ozgocer Tuba , Dagli Seyda Nur , Disli Faruk , CEYLAN MEHMET REŞAT , Ucar Cihat , Yildiz Sedat
Published: January 2024

Objective: The severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2
(SARS-CoV-2) and the resulting COVID-19 pandemic pose significant
challenges in terms of diagnosis and recurrent infections. Literature
data suggest that age, gender and BMI factors are associated with immune
response. The first aim of the study was to analyze the change in
antibody titer at 15-day intervals until 60 days post symptom onset
(PSO) The second aim was to analyze relationship between antibody titer
and symptom grade, gender, age, BMI, therapeutic drugs, vitamin
supplements, and herbal therapies. Materials and methods: Blood samples
were collected from 43 patients (5 mild, 21 moderate, 17 severe
diseases), 18 women (41.9 %), and 25 men (58.1 %), on 15, 30, 45, and
60 days PSO after COVID-19 infection. The serum antibody titers were
determined by measuring the COVID-19 IgG antibodies by ELISA.
Associations between the duration of symptoms, demographic and clinical
parameters, medications and vitamins used, and herbal therapies were
evaluated by interviewing the participants. Results: Within the first 15
days of illness, 81.4% of the patients were positive. From day 45 PSO,
seropositivity was 89.5%. The anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers were
statistically higher in men than women at all-time (p<0.01).
Antibody titer was higher in older participants compared to younger
participants (p<0.02). Plaquenil or Favipiravir use did not
effect antibody response (p>0.05). Men had higher fever
(p=0.006), shortness of breath (p=0.004), and chest pain (p=0.03) than
women. Conclusion: We found powerful antibody response by sixty days
PSO, as well as higher antibody response and severity of symptoms in men
gender. Data also showed that SARS-CoV-2 antibodies are higher in
individuals with older age, whereas BMI, coexisting chronic disease, and
drug used had no effect on antibody titers.
Identification of Splicing Sites Via Integrated Features and Support Vector Machine
Authors: Ullah Kamran , khan Salman Ahmad , Hussain Tariq , Kabir Muhammad , Yang Bailin , ali iqtidar
Published: January 2024

Gene splicing plays an extremely important role in the diversity of
protein. In eukaryotic gene expression, and entirely eradication of
introns and fusing of the remaining exons together is a prominent task
because the exon sequence is mostly interrupted by introns. Owing to its
importance in genetic engineering, it is extremely recommendable to
identify these splicing sites. Through conventional experimental
approaches, it becomes a difficult task, even in some situations
impossible. The increasing genome sequences at an exponential rate in
this area, it remained a challenge to develop a precise, reliable, and
robust computational approach for fast prediction of splicing sites thus
in the current study an ensemble space of Kmer, RevKmer, and Pseudo
Trinucleotide composition (PseTNC) are applied to take out those
features that can numerically describe the biological sample. Then these
features were passed into three classification algorithms such as random
forest, k-nearest neighbor, and support vector machine (SVM). After
evaluation through the jackknife test, the proposed model achieved
promising results of 93.92% and 96.39% for datasets S
and S respectively. It has been
noted that the identification performance of our current model
(TargetSS) is better than the existing methods. Finally, we conclude
that our proposed model for splicing site identification will be proved
a useful tool for Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Molecular
Biology, and drug discovery applications.
What should or shouldn't we do with the guidance of Rutherford classification? A case report of acute lower limb ischemia.
Authors: Karaagac Erturk , Reyhancan Adem
Published: January 2024

Acute limb ischemia is considered one of the most demanding acute
vascular pathologies requiring immediate intervention as it is
associated with morbidity and mortality.The Rutherford classification
for acute limb ischemia is a helpful management guide, as defined by the
Society for Vascular Surgery and the International Society for
Cardiovascular Surgery.Recently, the popularity of percutaneous
interventions has been reflected in this guideline-classification and
has been an important step in the treatment of acute limb
ischemia.However, surgical and medical treatment options should not be
overlooked.We know that right diagnosis and management in emergency
department is vital part of this process.That’s why, in this case
report, we discussed what should do and what should not do in a patient
with acute lower extremity ischemia in the light of this
guideline-classification.
COVID-19 induced Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adult and Acute Limb Ischemia.
Authors: Kobe Hiroshi , Ito Akihiro , Ishida Tadashi
Published: January 2024

The patient presented with a chief complaint of lower extremity pain was
found to be positive SARS-CoV-2 test. Contrast-enhanced computed
tomography scans showed endocarditis, vasculitis and lower extremity
ischemia. Despite we treated the patient with dexamethasone, the patient
died.
Therapeutic effects of eperisone on pulmonary fibrosis via preferential suppression of fibroblast activity
Authors: Tanaka Ken-ichiro , Shimoda Mikako , Sugizaki Toshifumi , Ikeda Maki , Takafuji Ayaka , Kawahara Masahiro , YAMAKAWA NAOKI , Mizushima Tohru
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose: Although the exact pathogenesis of idiopathic
pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is still unknown, the transdifferentiation of
fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and the production of extracellular
matrix components such as collagen, triggered by alveolar epithelial
cell injury, are important mechanisms of IPF development. In the lungs
of IPF patients, apoptosis is less likely to be induced in fibroblasts
than in alveolar epithelial cells, and this process is involved in the
pathogenesis of IPF. Experimental approach: We used a library containing
approved drugs to screen for drugs that preferentially reduce cell
viability in LL29 cells (lung fibroblasts from an IPF patient) compared
with A549 cells (human alveolar epithelial cell line). Key results:
After screening, we selected eperisone, a central muscle relaxant used
in clinical practice. Eperisone showed little toxicity in A549 cells and
preferentially reduced the percentage of viable LL29 cells, while
pirfenidone and nintedanib did not have this effect. Eperisone also
significantly inhibited transforming growth factor-β1-dependent
transdifferentiation of LL29 cells into myofibroblasts. In an in vivo
study using ICR mice, eperisone inhibited bleomycin (BLM)-induced
pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory dysfunction, and fibroblast activation.
In contrast, pirfenidone and nintedanib were less effective than
eperisone in inhibiting BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis under this
experimental condition. Finally, we showed that eperisone did not induce
adverse effects in the liver and gastrointestinal tract in the
BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis model. Conclusion and implications:
Considering these results, we propose that eperisone may be safer and
more therapeutically beneficial for IPF patients than current therapies.
A Qualitative Study on Stigmatisation Associated with COVID-19: An Iranian Experience
Authors: Sadati Ahmad Kalateh , Parvizi Mohammad Mahdi , Forouhari Sedigheh , Hosseini Seyed Ali , Jahromi Mohammad Hossein Bahmanzadegan , Jafferany Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Background: The social stigma associated with a disease represents an
important issue for health policymakers at the local, national, and
international levels. This study aimed to survay and analyze the
experience of stigma among patients with coronavirus disease 2019
(COVID-19) in Iran. Methods and Materials: This qualitative study was
conducted from September to December 2020 in the Fars, Khorasan, and
Yazd provinces of Iran. Sampling was done via the snowball method; based
on data saturation criteria, 24 adults over 18 years of age who had
experienced affliction with COVID-19 were recruited. Semi-structured
telephone interviews were conducted with each patient. Data were
analyzed following the conventional content analysis method described by
Erlingsson and Brysiewicz. Results: The results showed that during their
affliction with COVID-19, the participants experienced difficult,
anxious times, with rejection and alienation from their first-degree
relatives taking them by surprise. The three main themes extracted from
this study were (i) fear and rejection, (ii) discrimination, and (iii)
loneliness. These experiences have changed the attitudes of the
participants toward life and themselves. Conclusion: Based on our
results, it can be said that paying attention to social stigma among
patients during pandemics is an important social necessity and health
policy. It is recommended to have psychological counseling sessions for
those afflicted and to provide education and training to the public
regarding the proper treatment of patients with COVID-19. Quantitative
studies in this field are highly recommended.
Assessment of hematological parameters in typhoid fever.
Authors: Raza Syed , Jawaid Hina , Tahir Imtiaz , Rashid Abid
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Typhoid fever is an acute, generalized infection of the
reticuloendothelial system, which is caused by Salmonella typhi and
causes substantial and hepatic complications and biochemical changes.
Currently, the diagnostic test is isolation of bacteria from blood,
stool and occasionally urine, but serologic tests are still commonly
used, and there is still a necessity for the rapid and reliable
diagnostic test for typhoid fever. The objective of this study was to
determine the hematological changes in adult typhoid patients as
compared to healthy control. Methodology: A total of 50 patients and 50
healthy individuals were enrolled in this research, and variations in
hematological factors were studied. Results: Hematological parameters
were found deranged in typhoid fever including hemoglobin (low,
10.97±0.88), hematocrit (low, 37.72±1.40), ESR (high 45.08±13.42),
platelet count (high 588840±97185), WBCs count (high 38267±22279),
neutrophil percentage (high, 73.56±9.96), lymphocyte percentage (low,
21.24±10.08), and NLCR (high, 5.14±4.00) as compared to healthy control
group. Conclusion: This differentiating pattern is easy to obtain by
minimal invasive procedure and can be used for typhoid infection
diagnosis.
Analysis on the association of intraoperative fluid balance and short-term outcomes after radical gastrectomy in aged patients
Authors: Cui Yin , Wu Yuhui , Han Xue , Zhu Beibei , Zhou Qingyun , Ma Zhengliang , Xia Tianjiao , Gu Xiaoping
Published: January 2024

Objective: To observe the relationship between fluid balance and the
short-term outcomes of aged patients after gastrectomy for gastric
cancer. Methods: The clinical data of patients with gastrectomy for
gastric cancer from January 2016 to December 2018 were retrospectively
analyzed. 691 patients were analyzed and classified into three fluid
administration groups representing incremental quartiles of the primary
exposure variable. Preoperative characteristics used for statistical
adjustment included gender, age, weight, admission type, ASA degree.
Operative factors included procedure duration, estimated blood loss,
urine output, and so on. The primary outcomes included acute kidney
injury (AKI)，and postoperative respiratory complications (PRCs)
Exploratory outcomes included length of stay, postoperative length of
stay and total cost of hospitalization. The association between
perioperative factors and AKI/PRCs in hospital was tested with
multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: 16 cases were
diagnosed as AKI and 23 cases PRCs. The association between
intraoperative fluid balance and the incidence of AKI/ PRCs remained
U-shaped but the difference was not statistically significant. After
adjustment, lower urine output (P=0.017, OR=0.997,95%CI=0.994-0.999)
and coronary heart disease (P=0.032, OR=4.867,95%CI=1.142-20.75) were
independent predictor of AKI in aged patients. Coronary heart disease
(OR=3.371,95%CI=1.021-11.129, P=0.049) and intestinal obstruction
(OR=12.501,95%CI=3.058-51.107, P <0.0005) were independent
predictor of PRCs in aged patients. Conclusion: There were no
significant association between the incidence of AKI or any other
complications and intraoperative fluid balance during radical
gastrectomy in aged patients. Lower urine output and coronary heart
disease were independent predictors of AKI. Coronary heart disease and
intestinal obstruction were independent predictors of PRCs in aged
patients after radical gastrectomy. Trial registration: This study was
approved by the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University
(Registration number: 2018-162-01).
Does the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection higher in liver transplant recipients?: A single-center experience.
Authors: Gökçe Dilara Turan , Arı Derya , Aypak Adalet , Aydın Osman , Kaçar Sabite , Bostanci Erdal , Akdoğan Meral
Published: January 2024

Background: Liver transplant (LT) recipients with COVID-19 have been
reported as a high-risk population for severe disease through the
COVID-19 pandemic. Studies have shown that liver transplantation did not
significantly increase the risk of death and severe disease in patients
with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: From September 2020- March 2021, we
collected data and serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM +IgG results for 91 liver
transplant recipients. Study enrolment was performed when patients
presented for scheduled routine follow-up. All participants with serum
anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM+IgG completed a questionnaire querying information
including clinical symptoms in the last six months. We further collected
91 patients with anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM + IgG results. Seven patients had a
known history of symptomatic COVID-19 during the previous six months. Of
the 84 participants included in the study, 21 (25 %) had positive
anti-SARS-Cov-2 IgM + IgG results. In addition, we applied the COVID-19
PCR test to all 21 patients, and all of them were negative. Overall,
only seven patients declared flu-like upper respiratory tract infection
symptoms or diarrhea in detailed inquiry. Conclusion: We documented past
SARS-CoV-2 infection in 25 % of our outpatient LT recipients, and the
majority were asymptomatic. There was no significant relationship
between symptoms and seropositivity for SARS-COV-2.
Immunoglobulin-like transcript 4 on monocyte membrane downregulates major histocompatibility complex class II by interleukin-6 in sepsis
Authors: zhang Dewen , He Jian , Ding Xian , Wang Rui , Chen Wei
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To examine the biological behavior and effects of ILT4 on
monocytes in sepsis and explore the corresponding molecular regulatory
mechanism. Materials and Methods: ILT4+/+ (WT) and ILT4-knockout mice
(ILT4−/−) male BALB/c mice were used for sepsis modeling using CLP. Flow
cytometry was used to measure the levels of expression of ILT4 and
MHC-II on monocytes. ELISA was used to measure the concentrations of
serum TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-12. And exogenous IL-6 and anti-IL-6
mAb are used to control the biological activity and concentration of
serum IL-6 to observe the centering effect of IL-6. Results: ILT4 was
highly expressed on monocytes 24 h after CLP (p<0.05). MHC-II
expression on monocytes of ILT4−/− mice was significantly higher than in
WT mice (p<0.05). And the survival of ILT4−/− mice was
significantly better after CLP compared than in WT mice. Serum IL-6 was
significantly elevated 24 h after CLP (p<0.05), which was
significantly suppressed after ILT4 ablation (p<0.05).
Subcutaneously injection with exogenous IL-6 made the monocytes of the
ILT4−/− mice after CLP to maintain low proportion of MHC-II-expressing
monocytes. Conclusions: ILT4–IL-6–MHC-II is involved in the biological
regulatory mechanism by which monocytes functionally dissimilation in
sepsis.
Two Equivalent Families of Linear Fully Coupled Forward Backward Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Liu Ruyi , Wu Zhen , Zhang Detao
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we investigate two families of fully coupled linear
Forward-Backward Stochastic Differential Equations (FBSDE). Within these
families, one could get the same well-posedness of FBSDEs with totally
different structures. The first family of FBSDEs are proved to be
equivalent with respect to the Unified Approach. Thus one could get the
well-posedness of the whole family if one member exists a unique
solution. Another equivalent family of FBSDEs are investigated by
introducing a linear transformation method. By reason of the fully
coupling structure between the forward and backward equations, it leads
to a highly interdependence in solutions. We are able to lower the
coupling of FBSDEs, by virtue of the idea of transformation, without
losing the well-posedness. Moreover, owing to the non-degeneracy of the
transformation matrix, the solution to original FBSDE is totally
determined by solutions of FBSDE after transformation. In addition, an
example of optimal Linear Quadratic (LQ) problem is presented to
illustrate.
…” Parents experiences of handling oral anticancer drugs at home: “It all falls on me …”
Authors: Edelbi Ranaa Akkawi , Eksborg Staffan , Kreicbergs Ulrika , Lövgren Malin , Wallén Klara , Ekman Jennie , Lindemalm Synnöve
Published: January 2024

Background: Families of children with cancer must obtain and understand
knowledge and skills to care for their child’s oral drug treatment at
home during a period of intense hospitalizations and while adjusting to
the fact that their child has cancer. Aim: The aim of this study was to
describe the experiences of parents handling oral anticancer drugs in a
home setting. Methods: Parents of children with cancer were recruited
from a pediatric oncology ward in Sweden to participate in an interview.
The interviews were transcribed verbatim and subjected to qualitative
content analysis. Results: We found the following categories and
subcategories: parents’ views on the provided information - lack of, too
little or contradictory information, and parents’ preferences for
information delivery; safety over time; correct drug dose; and drug
administration. As time passed, most parents adapted to their child’s
illness, felt safer, and found it easier to take in and process any
given information. Parents preferred information in different formats
(written, movie clips and orally) and in their mother tongue. Many
parents were aware of the importance of giving an accurate dose to their
child and described the process of drug administration as overwhelming.
Conclusions: Parents need to be provided with accurate, timely,
nonconflicting and repeated information – in different forms and in
their mother tongue – on how to handle oral anticancer drugs at home.
IMPACT OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON QUALITY OF LIFE AND EFFECTING FACTORS AMONG ADULTS WITH LONG COVID: FAMILY HEALTH CENTERS BASED STUDY
Authors: YILMAZEL GÜLAY , KELES Emre
Published: January 2024

Background: Long COVID are the uninterpretable symptoms of COVID-19.
However, quality of life and other factors among COVID-19 survivors
remain less clear. Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate
impact of COVID-19 pandemic on quality of life and effecting factors
among adults with long COVID. Design and Setting: This cross-sectional
study included 440 individuals applying at family health centers for any
reason. Methods: The survey consisted of two parts: the first related to
socio-demographic information; the second including “COVID-19 Quality
of Life Scale”and the “Perception Health Scale”. Results: Of the
participants, 40.9% were male, 59.1% were female as well as 33.2% had
at least one long COVID symptoms. The median COV19-QoLand Perception of
Health Scale scores were 3.0 and 40.0 respectively. Among the prolonged
COVID symptoms, fatigue/tiredness was shown with 53.2%. Other common
symptoms were muscle pain (27.1%), headache/dizziness (24.1%),
difficulty thinking or concentrating (20.9%), difficulty in breathing
and heart palpitation (20.0%). The COV19-QoL median score significantly
differed by education level, existing chronic conditions, COVID-19
treatment type, number of experienced long COVID symptoms and
continuation of the symptoms p<0.05. There was significant
correlation between COV19-QoL and age, time since first infected and
perceived health score (p<0.05). Conclusion: Aging, low
education, existing chronic conditions, hospitalization, number of long
symptoms, continuation of symptoms, and perception of health were risky
factors for impact of the pandemic on quality of life. Specific
rehabilitation services and programmes seems to be urgent need in
overcoming this issue and to improve health. Key Words (MeSH Terms):
Long COVID; COVID-19; quality of life; adults; family health
Cell@MOF nanocomposites with improved catalytic performance for the enzymatic biosynthesis of Ala-Gln
Authors: chen xiang-e , Di Heng-jun , Liu Xue-dan , Li Shu-xuan , Cheng Ting , Zhao Fei-yang , Liu Xiao-huan , Chen Hao-geng , Wang Tao
Published: January 2024

Recently, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) with tunable pore sizes
and large surface areas have been widely used as effective supports for
enzyme immobilization. A bienzyme system for the biosynthesis of
L-alanyl-L-glutamine (Ala-Gln) with effective ATP regeneration was
established in this study. Cells (E. coli BL21 (DE3)) expressing L-amino
acid ligase (Lal) from Bacillus altitudinis (BABD) and polyphosphate
kinase (PPK) were immobilized on ZIF-8 using a one-step molecular
organic framework (MOF)-embedded approach. The immobilized bienzyme
system, named BP@ZIF-8, was successfully fabricated and characterized
using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission
electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The
resulting BP@ZIF-8 exhibited high thermostability at 50 °C and high pH
stability in neutral and alkaline reaction buffers. BP@ZIF-8, for
example, lost little activity after 150 minutes in carbonate buffer
solution (pH 10.0). However, BP@ZIF-8 displayed poor pH stability in
acidic environments. Furthermore, after seven successive uses, it still
maintained 58.9% of their initial activity, exhibiting satisfactory
reusability. After 14 hours, the yield of Ala-Gln catalysed by BP@ZIF-8
was around 14.56 mM, which represented an increase of roughly 14.3%
above that catalysed by free cells. These findings showed that BP@ZIF-8
has a great deal of potential for practical Ala-Gln biosynthesis.
EFFECTIVENESS OF KEGEL EXERCISE TRAINING IN WOMEN WITH URINARY INCONTINENCE: A METHODOLOGICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
Authors: Özdemir Kevser , Cevirme Ayse
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Although urinary incontinence is not a life threatening
problem with effects on daily life, it is a health problem with a social
aspect that negatively affects the quality of life. Objective: This
study was carried out to evaluate the Kegel Exercise training efficacy
given to women diagnosed with urinary incontinence and to develop the
“Evaluation of the Usefulness and Applicability of Kegel Exercise
Training Scale” and to test its validity reliability. Methods:The
study, which was planned methodologically and experimentally with
pre-test and post-test, was carried out on 105 women with urinary
incontinence between March and July 2017. Results: The average age of
women was 49.10 ± 8.99 years. According to the data before the Kegel
Exercise training and 8 weeks after the Kegel Exercise application, the
average scores of the scales changed over time (p <0.05). The
scale developed in the study was found to be a valid and reliable scale
that can measure the effectiveness of Kegel Training training.
Conclusion: Kegel Exercise training positively affected the quality of
life and it was determined that the Evaluation Scale of the Developed
Kegel Exercise Training Activity is a valid and reliable measurement
tool. Nurses are asked to work on issues related to UI, to evaluate and
transfer these studies to their applications, and thus, it is expected
that evidence-based practices will be increased.
An Stochastic Epidemic Model with Two Types of Infectious Diseases and Vertical Transmission
Authors: xunyang Wang , Shi Qihong , canyun Huang , yixin Hao
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a stochastic epidemic model with two different types of
infectious diseases that spread through both horizontal and vertical
transmission is investigaed. By constructing suitable Lyapunov functions
and applying Itˆ o’s formula as well as Chebyshev’s inequality, the
sufficient conditions for stochastic ultimate boundedness and permanence
are established. The reliability of theoretical results are further
illustrated by numerical simulations.
The Stochastic Order Study of Maximum likelihood Estimation based on Censored samples
Authors: ren jianguo
Published: January 2024

The article has mainly given the exponential distribution race and in
the scale parameter race’s parameter satisfies the condition which based
on the chopped sample maximum likelihood estimator the stochastic order
needs, but also certifies that the parameter different two mutual
independent normal distribution or the two-parameters exponential
distribution, under the complete sample, between the parameter maximum
likelihood estimator has the stochastic order relations.At the same
time, it is proved that there is also a random order relationship
between the maximum likelihood estimators of the parameters under the
fixed number truncated sample.
Bilateral Humeral Head Fractures Caused by Repeated Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Shocks.
Authors: Alsheikh Thabet
Published: January 2024

We report a case of an unusual complication of bilateral humeral head
fractures caused by repeated ICD shocks secondary to torsade de pointes
electrical storm. A 59-year-old female with osteoporosis and ICD treated
with Sotalol for atrial fibrillation presented after receiving multiple
ICD shocks due to recurrent torsade de pointes in the setting of severe
hypokalemia. The patient complained of severe bilateral shoulder pain.
Shoulder X-rays showed osteopenia with bilateral comminuted humeral head
fractures. Bilateral shoulder CT scans showed no findings to suggest
pathologic fractures. She had no direct shoulder trauma. The comminuted
proximal humerus fractures were not amenable to surgical intervention.
Sotalol was stopped, electrolytes were corrected with no recurrence of
ICD shocks over the next five years of clinical follow-up. This case
highlights the need to take the necessary steps to reduce the risk of
ICD shocks in patients with osteoporosis to minimize fragility
fractures. Catheter ablation, optimizing ICD detection zones and
therapies, and antiarrhythmic medications are useful means to reduce
ventricular arrhythmia burden and ICD shocks. Mechanical ventilation and
the use of paralytic agents could also be considered early during
electrical storm treatment when dealing with at-risk patients.
Benefits of silicon-enhanced root nodulation in a model legume are contingent upon rhizobial efficacy
Authors: Putra Rocky , Waterman Jamie , Mathesius Ulrike , Wojtalewicz Dominika , Powell Jeff , Hartley Susan , Johnson Scott
Published: January 2024

Our study determined the impacts of silicon (Si) supplementation on
Medicago truncatula inoculated with Ensifer meliloti
rhizobial strains that differed in their capacity for nitrogen fixation:
Sm1021 (‘low-efficiency’) or Sm1022 (‘high-efficiency’). We then
examined how Si and rhizobial efficacy influence plant resistance to a
polyphagous insect, Helicoverpa armigera. These combinations were
supplied with Si or untreated in a glasshouse experiment, where we
quantified nodule flavonoids and foliar chemistry (free amino acids,
soluble protein, elemental C, N and Si). Si supply increased nodule
number per plant, specific nodule flavonoids, contents of foliar
nitrogenous compounds and foliar C, but not foliar Si. We also
demonstrated that rhizobial efficacy altered the magnitude of Si effects
on various traits. For example, Si significantly promoted concentrations
of foliar N and soluble protein in the plants associated with the
‘low-efficiency’ strain only and this was not the case with the
‘high-efficiency’ one. Additionally, increases in foliar free amino
acids in response to Si addition did not increase susceptibility to
H. armigera. Collectively, our study indicates that Si enrichment
generates positive effects on M. truncatula, particularly when
the association with rhizobia is relatively inefficient, and may play a
more prominent role in rhizobial functionality than previously thought.
The importance of the circadian system for adaptation to heat wave stress in barley
Authors: Dakhiya Yuri , Green Rachel
Published: January 2024

Acute heat episodes (heatwaves) present some of the most significant
challenges for plants growing in both natural and agricultural settings.
Circadian systems are molecular time-pacing mechanisms responsible for
synchronizing a wide range of rhythmic physiological processes with the
appropriate time of day. We hypothesized that the circadian system may
contribute to the capacity of wild barley plants to withstand extreme
heat events. We have used chlorophyll fluorescence to analyse circadian
rhythms in a panel of wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum) accessions from
diverse environmental sites across the Southern Levant in response to
heat wave conditions. Average linear multi-models have been constructed
to find correlations between rhythm attributes and eco-climate at the
sites of origin of the accessions. Under optimal conditions, the
environment explained a significant portion of the variance in period
time and amplitude. By contrast in heat wave conditions despite a mean
shortening of period and decrease in amplitude, circadian traits did not
correlate with eco-climate origins. Circadian flexibility appears to be
more important. We show that plant vitality in acute heat stress is
correlated with circadian plasticity in response to increasing
temperatures and examine whether acute heat stress resilience in wild
barley is predominantly associated with specific eco-climate origins.
Pediatric Palliative Radiotherapy
Authors: Alcaide-Alvarez Carlos , Osuna-Marco Marta , Villa Marta , Cárdenas-Rebollo José Miguel , Herrero Blanca , Alonso-Gutiérrez Rosa , López-Ibor Blanca
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Radiotherapy is an underutilized resource in pediatric
palliative care; however, it is useful in relieving various symptoms at
the end of life. Patients and methods: A retrospective study of 30
pediatric patients who received radiotherapy for palliative reasons is
shown. The objective was to review whether radiotherapy was beneficial.
Results: Radiotherapy was useful in relieving symptoms, showing an
overall response in 87% of cases and with mild toxicities. The poorest
responses were in gliomas with relief in 56% of cases showing toxicity
in 89%. The need for anesthesia and irradiation at early ages were
predisposing factors for the development of toxicities. Conclusions: The
use of palliative radiotherapy is beneficial and should be included in
the multidisciplinary management of the child in palliative care.
Characterizing closure systems in the graded setting - CMMSE
Authors: Ojeda-Hernandez Manuel , Cabrera Inma , Cordero Pablo , Muñoz-Velasco Emilio
Published: January 2024

Closure systems play a major role in both pure and applied mathematics.
This paperpresents an extension of the notion of closure system, which
is done adapting theidea of meet-subsemilattice to a complete fuzzy
lattice. This extension is carried outon two levels, first as crisp sets
and then as fuzzy sets. In both cases, the one-to-onerelations between
closure operators and closure systems that hold in the classicalcase are
extended properly to this framework. Furthermore, a novel
characterizationfor a closure system is established.
Chestnut polysaccharides rescue impaired spermatogenesis by adjusting gut microbiota
Authors: Sun Zhongyi , Yu Shuai , Tian Yu , Han Baoquan , Zhao Yong , Li Yaqi , Wang Yan , Sun Yujiang , Shen Wei
Published: January 2024

Objective: To elaborate the specific mechanism of chestnut
polysaccharides beneficial to spermatogenesis. Design: 16s rRNA-based
study Setting and population: Busulfan and chestnut polysaccharides
treatment mouse Methods: Intestinal microbiota of different groups (n =
10) were characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the V3-V4 region.
Hematoxylin eosin staining (H&E), Immunochemistry (IHC) and Real-time
fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) were acted as methods to detect
the gene expression changes in tissue. Main outcome measure:
spermatogenesis Results: Compared with the Vehicle group, germ cell
quantity, intestinal structure and tight junction of intestinal tissue
were altered in the Busulfan-treated mice, and the intestinal microbiota
was also disturbed at several levels, including phylum and genus.
Busulfan disturbed the homeostasis of the intestinal microenvironment.
Chestnut polysaccharides could rescue this aberrance and improve
spermatogenesis via steroid hormone synthesis process. Conclusions: CPs
can change gut structure and tight junctions to rescue Busulfan-impaired
spermatogenesis by altering the composition of different groups of gut
microbes, a rescue process that is most likely related to hormone
synthesis processes. Funding: This work was supported by the Shenzhen
Sanming Project, Agricultural Breeding Engineering and Major
Agricultural Application Technology Innovation Project and Taishan
Scholar Construction Foundation of Shandong Province of China. Key
words: Chestnut polysaccharides, Spermatogenesis, Gut microbiota,16S
rRNA
Foundational biodiversity effects propagate through coastal food webs via multiple pathways
Authors: Ramus Aaron , Lefcheck Jon , Long Zachary
Published: January 2024

Relatively few studies have attempted to resolve the pathways through
which biodiversity effects on ecosystem functioning cascade from one
trophic level to another. Here, we manipulated the richness of
habitat-forming seaweeds in a western Atlantic estuary to explore how
changes in foundation species diversity affect the structure and
functioning of the benthic consumer communities that they support.
Structural equation modeling revealed that macroalgal richness enhanced
invertebrate abundance, biomass, and diversity, both directly by
changing the quality and palatability of the foundational substrate, and
indirectly by increasing the total biomass of available habitat.
Consumer responses were largely driven by a single foundational seaweed,
although stronger complementarity among macroalgae was observed for
invertebrate richness. These findings reconcile earlier inferences from
terrestrial grasslands by demonstrating that foundational biodiversity
effects can simultaneously propagate through multiple pathways to
maintain animal foodwebs. Our work also highlights the potential
ramifications of human-induced changes in marine ecosystems.
Acute Exacerbation of Graft-versus-Host Disease following SARS-CoV2 infection after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant in Two Pediatric Patients.
Authors: Choe Michelle , Martinez Caridad , Krance Robert , Doherty Erin
Published: January 2024

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV2 has affected over 28 million people in
the United States as of February 2021.1 Limited literature describe the
effects of SARS-CoV2 infection on pediatric patients who have received
hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Graft-versus-host disease
(GVHD) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in
post-transplant patients. Although the pathophysiology of GVHD is
well-described; identification of risk factors and successful treatment
of severe, refractory GVHD is still wanting. We present two pediatric
cases of acute GVHD exacerbation after SARS-CoV2 infection to recognize
a potential risk factor for development of GVHD in pediatric HSCT
recipients.
Existence and concentration of positive solutions for a fractional Schr\”odinger logarithmic equation
Authors: wang li , Feng ShengHao , Cheng kun
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we study the existence and concentration of positive
solutions for the following fractional Schr\”odinger
logarithmic equation: \begin{equation*}
\left\{ \begin{aligned}
& \varepsilon^{2s}
(-\Delta)^{s} u+V(x)u =u\log
u^2,\ x\in
\mathbb{R}^N,\\
&u\in H^s(\mathbb{R}^N),
\end{aligned} \right.
\end{equation*} where $\varepsilon
> 0$ is a small parameter, $N>2s,$ $s
\in ( 0 ,1), (-\Delta)^{s}$ is the
fractional Laplacian, the potential $V$ is a continuous function
having a global minimum. Using variational method to modify the
nonlinearity with the sum of a $C^1 $ functional and a convex lower
semicontinuous functional, we prove the existence of positive solutions
and concentration around of a minimum point of $V$ when
$\varepsilon$ tends to zero.
Global behavior of positive solutions of a third order difference equations system
Authors: Mai Phong
Published: January 2024

In this paper, by using semi-cycle analysis method we examine the
behavior of positive solutions of the system of difference equations
\begin{equation*}
x_{n+1}=\alpha+\dfrac{y_{n}^p}{y_{n-2}^p},\
y_{n+1}=\alpha+
\dfrac{x_{n}^q}{x_{n-2}^q},
\ n=0, 1, 2, … \end{equation*}
where parameters $\alpha, p, q \in (0,
\infty)$ and the initial values $x_{i}$,
$y_{i}$ are arbitrary positive numbers for $ i= -2,-1, 0$. We
also study the boundedness of positive solutions, the global asymptotic
stability of the equilibrium point of above system in the case of
$\alpha>1$, $0
Thymic tumours in children -- single institution experience
Authors: Napieralska Aleksandra , Miszczyk Leszek
Published: January 2024

Background Thymomas are very rare neoplasms in children and they
represent less than 1% of mediastinal tumours in a paediatric
population. The aim of our study was to assess the long term treatment
results of children with thymic tumours. Material and methods A total
number of 8 children (4 boys and 4 girls) with thymic tumours were
identified. Median age at diagnosis was 7 years. In 7 of them thymoma
was diagnosed, in 1 thymic carcinoma. In 5 of them WHO type was assessed
– in two of them B1 type was found, in one B2, in one AB and in one C.
In all but one surgery was the first-line treatment, but 6 patients had
only partial resection. One patient started treatment with chemotherapy
and four others received chemotherapy after the surgery. Radiotherapy
was applied in 6 patients with median total dose of 37.5Gy. Results
Follow-up ranged from 8.5 to 273.5 months with median of 6.1 years.
During that time 4 patients died – 1 due to progression of the disease,
in 3 others reason of death was unknown. In all evaluated patients
complete regression was observed (100% local control). Two-, 5- and
10-years OS and PFS were 85% and 72%, 51% and 54%, 51% and 54%,
respectively. Conclusions Combined treatment could provide satisfactory
results in thymoma patients. There is need for further larger studies
which can help establish optimal management strategies.