bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of polymorphic variants in apoptotic genes (Bcl-2 / Bax) and their roles in the development of myeloproliferative disorders (hematological malignancies) a case-controlled study.
Authors: Moawad Mamdouh Shafig , Tayeb Faris J J , Mir Rashid
Published: February 2022

Background:BCL2 and Bax play important roles in the regulation of apoptosis. The Bax-G(-248)A AND Bcl-2-938C>A polymorphisms in the promoter region were associated with low Bax expression, and high Bcl-2 expression, respectively. These likely affect on hematological malignancies on different parameters such as advanced stage, treatment resistance, and short overall survival. This is a case-controlled study aimed to evaluate the association of Bcl-2-938C>A and Bax-248G>A in leukemias causation.Methodology: The study included 218 subjects, among which 108 were leukemia patients and 110 healthy controls, and G(-248)A and Bcl-2-938C>A genotyping was detected by using amplification-refractory mutation system PCR. Results: The Bcl-2 -938 C>A polymorphism was found in 22% of the leukemia cohort and 10% of normal controls with a significant difference in genotype and allele frequency between the two groups (P =0.025). At the same time, the Bax-248G>A polymorphism was found in 6.48% of the leukemia cohort and 4.54% of normal controls with a significant difference in genotype and allele frequency between the two groups (P =0.048). It was indicated that the Bcl-2 -938 AA genotype was associated with an increased risk of leukemia in the codominant inheritance model (OR = 3.17, 95 % CI, (1.33-7.53); p=0.009)–(Bcl-2 CC vs. AA). A significant association was also reported with Bcl-2 CC VS (CA+AA) genotype in the dominant inheritance model (OR=1.86, 95%CI=1.05-3.29, P=0.03). A significant association was also reported with the Bcl-2 (CC+CA) vs (AA) genotype in the recessive inheritance model (OR=2.53, 95% CI=1.13-5.68, P=0.02). Similarly, our data suggested that the A allele significantly increased the risk of leukemia compared to the C allele. (OR =1.79, 95 % CI, 1.18-2.69; P=0.005). In case Bax-248 GA genotype was associated with an increased risk of leukemia in codominant inheritance model (OR = 1.87, 95 % CI, (0.56-6.21); p=0.017( Bcl-2 GG vs. GA). A significant association was reported with Bax-248 GG VS (GA+AA) genotype in the dominant inheritance model (OR=1.98,95%CI=1.14-3.45, P=0.041). Our data indicated that the Bcl-2 -938 A allele significantly increased the risk of leukemia compared to the G allele. (OR =1.63, 95 % CI, 1.03-2.58; P=0.035).Conclusion: The presence of this single nucleotide polymorphism in BCL2 -938 C>A and BAX-248G>A in leukemia patients critically increases the susceptibility to leukemia influences the response to treatment and overall survival. Our data indicated that A allele of BCL2-938 C>A and BAX-248G>A gene significantly increased the risk of developing the leukemia compared to G allele. The data from the current study provide evidence that BCL2-938C>A and BAX-248G>A polymorphisms may be useful in predicting clinical outcomes of patients with leukemia.
3D implications of epicardial adipose tissue in the stratification of cardiac glucose uptake in type 2 diabetes: A [18F]FDG PET/CT study
Authors: Herance Raul , Garcia-Leon Daniel , Simó Rafael , Velasquez Mayra , Hernández Cristina , Aparicio Carolina , Roque Albert , Pizzi Maria Nazarena , Cuellar Hug , Gámez Cristina , Ramírez-Serra Clara , Castell Joan , Aguadé Santiago
Published: February 2022

Purpose: Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) may reflect cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Thus, [18F]FDG PET/CT images of glucose energy metabolism following hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp (HEC) were used to investigate whether the EAT associates to myocardial glucose uptake and clinical biomarkers promoting cardiovascular risk in T2D.Methods: Forty-seven T2D patients underwent cardiac [18F]FDG PET/CT examination after HEC. Scans were sorted into poor and good uptake groups according to the mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean). EAT was characterized from non-contrast CT images and included in comparisons. Both target-to-background ratios (TBR) and regional cardiac uptake in the 17-segment model were calculated and correlated to EAT-derived parameters. Results: TBR uptake in non-obese strongly associated to troponin levels (R = 0.8135), while EAT volumes were associated in obese (R = -0.7091) for similar troponin levels. Regarding segmental cardiac uptake, significant EAT volumes association (R = -0.5939) with additional clustering determined at-risk patients presented a 3D EAT thickness over 1.17 (cm). Dichotomizing EAT in thin and thick regions revealed thin EAT was associated to regional cardiac uptake in non-obese (R = -0.7172), whereas both thick (R = -0.6955) and total EAT (R = -0.7878) were associated in obese. Conclusion: 3D thin and thick regions in EAT allow cardiac glucose uptake stratification in T2D.Trial registration: NCT02248311
Increased coagulation factors V, VIII, IX, and homocysteine in Mexican patients with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
Authors: Hernández-Zamora Edgar , Rodríguez-Olivas Armando Odiseo , Rosales-Cruz Erika , Zavala-Hernández Cesar , Maldonado Elba Reyes
Published: February 2022

Background: Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) is a pediatric disorder that occurs due to the avascular necrosis of the femoral head and affects the range of motion of the hip in various degrees. Its etiology is still unknown, although it has been associated with coagulation abnormalities. In Mexico, there are no reports describing hypercoagulability markers in patients with LCPD. Therefore, our objective is to determine coagulation factors, Von Willebrand factor (VWF), and Homocysteine (Hcy) in patients with LCPD and controls.Results: Were tested 25 patients with LCPD and 50 controls, matched by sex and age. The results showed significant differences in patients whit respect to controls: Prothrombin time↘, FV↗, FVIII↗ FIX↗, and Hcy↗. These results indicate that there may be hypercoagulable states in patients, which can cause thrombotic events.Conclusions: This is the first report in Mexico with a clinical and research focus regarding patients with LCPD. The increase in FV activity, FVIII, FIX, and Hcy concentration support the hypothesis that microthrombi formation in small-caliber vessels could be causing avascularity and femoral necrosis, which are traits of LCPD.
Profile of dorsal root ganglion neurons: study of oxytocin expression
Authors: Noguri Taisei , Hatakeyama Dai , Kitahashi Takashi , Oka Kotaro , Ito Etsuro
Published: February 2022

Although Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons have been so far classified according to the difference in their fibers (Aβ, Aδ, and C), this classification should be further subdivided according to gene expression patterns. We focused on oxytocin (OXT) and its related receptors, because OXT plays a local role in DRG neurons. We measured the mRNA levels of OXT, OXT receptor (OXTR), vasopressin V1a receptor (V1aR), transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), and piezo-type mechanosensitive ion channel component 2 (Piezo2) in single DRG neurons by using real-time PCR, and then performed a cluster analysis. According to gene expression patterns, DRG neurons were classified into 4 clusters: Cluster 1 was characterized mainly by Piezo2, Cluster 2 by TRPV1, Cluster 4 by OXTR, and neurons in Cluster 3 did not express any of the target genes. The cell body diameter of OXT-expressing neurons was significantly larger in Cluster 1 than in Cluster 2. These results suggest that OXT-expressing DRG neurons with small cell bodies (Cluster 2) and large cell bodies (Cluster 1) probably correspond to C-fiber neurons and Aβ-fiber neurons, respectively. Furthermore, the OXT-expressing neurons contained not only TRPV1 but also Piezo2, suggesting that OXT may be released by mechanical stimulation regardless of nociception. Thus, mechanoreception and nociception themselves may induce the autocrine/paracrine function of OXT in the DRG, contributing to alleviation of pain.
Prone Positioning Improves Ventilation-Perfusion Matching Assessed by Electrical Impedance Tomography in Patients with ARDS: A Prospective Physiological Study
Authors: Wang Yu-xian , Zhong Ming , Dong Min-hui , Song Jie-qiong , Zheng Yi-jun , Wu Wei , Tao Jia-le , Zhu Ling , Zheng Xin
Published: February 2022

Background: The physiological effects of prone ventilation in ARDS patients have been discussed for long but remained not fully elucidated. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) emerged as a tool for bedside monitoring of pulmonary ventilation and perfusion, giving the chance to find proofs. This study aimed to investigate the effect of prone positioning (PP) on ventilation-perfusion matching by contrast-enhanced EIT in patients with ARDS.Design: Monocenter prospective physiologic study.Setting: University medical ICU.Patients: Ten mechanically ventilated ARDS patients who underwent prone positioning.Interventions: We performed EIT evaluation at the initiation of PP, 3h after PP initiation and at the end of PP during the first PP session.Measurements and Main Results: The regional distribution of ventilation and perfusion was analysed based on EIT images and compared to the clinical variables regarding respiratory and hemodynamic status. Prolonged prone ventilation improved oxygenation in the ARDS patients. Based on EIT measurments, the distribution of ventilation was homogenized and dorsal lung ventilation was significantly improved by PP administration, while the effect of PP on lung perfusion was relatively mild, with increased dorsal lung perfusion was observed. After merging, the ventilation-perfusion matched region was found to increase and correlate with the increased PaO2/FiO2 by PP, which was mainly attributed to reduced shunt in the lung based on further quantification showed decrease of the only perfused regions.Conclusions: Prolonged prone ventilation increased dorsal ventilation and perfusion, which resulted in improved ventilation-perfusion matching and oxygenation.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04725227. Registered on 25 January 2021.
A Panel of Circulating Non-coding RNAs in the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Therapy in Egyptian Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Wehida Nadine , Abdel-Rehim Wafaa , Mansy Hazem El , Karmouty Ahmed , Kamel Maher A.
Published: February 2022

1) Background: Non coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have recently been identified to play a pivotal role in many diseases including breast cancer (BC). This study aims to investigate the relative quantification of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19, microRNA (miR) 675-5p, 675-3p and miR-let 7 in BC patients.2) Methods: The study was performed on three groups, group 1; 30 non-intervened BC female patients about to undergo breast surgery, group 2; 30 postoperative female BC patients about to receive adjuvant anthracycline chemotherapy and group 3; 30 apparently healthy female volunteers as the control group. Plasma samples were drawn before and after the intervention in groups 1 and 2, with a single sample drawn from group 3. The relative quantification levels were compared with healthy control subjects and were related with the clinicopathological statuses of these patients.3) Results: There was a statistically significant increase in H19, miR-675-5p, miR-675-3p and miR-let 7 in the non-intervened BC patients when compared to the control group. Surgery resulted in a significant reduction in all four ncRNAs under investigation. Chemotherapy resulted in a significant increase in the level of miR-let 7. The assay discriminated normal from BC where the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) of miR-675-3p showed the maximal AUC-ROC of 1.000. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity was also 100% when CA 15-3 and H19 were combined.4) Conclusion: The results indicate that the panel of ncRNAs can all potentially act as novel biomarkers whether alone or combined in the diagnosis of BC.
Blood and Faecal Biomarkers to Assess Dietary Energy, Protein and Amino acid Efficiency of Utilization by Growing and Finishing Pigs
Authors: Montoro Jordi Camp , Solà-Oriol David , Muns Ramon , Gasa Josep , Llanes Núria , Manzanilla Edgar Garcia
Published: February 2022

Background
This study aimed to use the blood serum metabolite (BSM) and faecal volatile fatty acid (VFA) profiles to identify changes in protein, amino acid and energy dietary content in growing and finishing pigs.
Results
Two studies were conducted. The first study (S1) included 20 pens of 11 pigs (87.0 ± 4.10 kg; 18 weeks old) assigned to 5 diets: control (C1), high and low crude protein (HP1 and LP1), and high and low net energy (HE1 and LE1). The second study (S2) included 28 pens of 11 pigs (41.3 ± 2.60 kg; 12 weeks old) assigned to 7 diets: control (C2), high and low crude protein (HP2 and LP2), high and low amino acid (HA2 and LA2), and high and low net energy (HE2 and LE2). Pigs were followed for 10 (S1) and 20 (S2) days and blood and faecal samples were collected at 20 (S1) and 14 (S2) weeks of age. Data was analysed using general linear models and ROC curve analysis. Urea nitrogen was higher in pigs fed HP1 (13.6 ± 0.95 mg/dL) and HP2 (11.6 ± 0.61) compared to those fed LP1 (6.0 ± 0.95) and LP2 (5.2 ± 0.61; P < 0.001) showing very good discrimination ability (AUC = 98.4 and 100%, respectively). In S1, creatinine (133.8 ± 3.97 µmol/L), triglycerides (0.42 ± 0.03 mmol/L) and branched-chain fatty acids (BCFA; 6.1 ± 0.38% of total VFA; AUC = 96.9%) were higher in HE1 than LE1 pigs (117.2 ± 3.97; 0.28 ± 0.03; 4.4 ± 0.38, respectively; P < 0.05). In S2, albumin was lower (32.1 ± 1.08 g/L) and propionic acid was higher (24.5 ± 0.57% of total VFA) in LA2 pigs than HP2, HA2, LE2, and HE2 pigs (37.9 ± 1.08; 21.4 ± 0.57, respectively; P < 0.001). Cholesterol was higher in HE2 pigs (2.8 ± 0.11 mmol/L) than LE2 pigs (2.4 ± 0.11; P < 0.05). Finally, BCFA were higher in HP2 pigs (6.6 ± 0.41) than HA2 and LE2 (4.8 ± 0.41; P < 0.05) and had a moderate accuracy to differentiate between HP2 and LP2 pigs (AUC = 87.5%).
Conclusions
Urea nitrogen is a good indicator with high accuracy to detect an excess of crude protein with inadequate amino acid profile in growing and finishing pig diets. Other biomarkers like albumin and BCFA showed promising results and need to be further studied.
Analysis of the Variations in the Colic Branching Pattern of the Superior Mesenteric Artery: A Cadaveric Study with Proposal to Modify Its Current Anatomical Classification
Authors: Nigah Sobal , Patra Apurba , Chumber Shekhar , Kalyan Gurdeep Singh
Published: February 2022

Background
Vascular anatomy of the right colon is more complex and variable as compared to the left. Variations range from the mode of origin, branching to territorial supply. The present work was undertaken to study the anatomical variations of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and its colic branches in detail.
Materials and methods
Study included 50 formalin fixed cadavers aged between 40–65 years. The colic branches arising from SMA were dissected to trace their mode of origin, branching pattern and territorial supply. Based on the mode of origin of the colic branches, the SMA anatomy was classified into four patterns (I, II a, b, c, III and IV).
Results
SMA itself showed variations in its origin (as celiaco-mesenteric and hepato-mesenteric trunk), so the colic branches arising from it. In most of the cases middle (MCA), right (RCA) and ileocolic artery (ICA) originated independently from SMA (I). A common stem (CS) was reported between MCA and RCA (IIa) in seven cases; RCA & ICA in one (IIb); MCA & LCA in one. MCA originated from coeliac trunk (CT) in one case. One case each of absent RCA (III) and accessory artery arising from SMA (IV) was also noticed. In one case, right branch of MCA given origin to RCA. Additionally, close association was observed between pattern IIa and incomplete inter-colic anastomosis.
Conclusion
Variations in the origin of SMA may potentially influence branching patterns of colic arteries. MCA is the most variant and ICA is the most consistent branch of SMA. Distinctive variations like MCA arising from CT or arising as CS with LCA and incomplete inter-colic anastomosis in pattern IIa are of outrageous importance for operating surgeons during surgical procedures of colon. Based on study results, we propose modification in the classification of SMA anatomy to include the CS of MCA & LCA as type IId, however its success relies upon universal acceptance.
Welding Analysis and Optimization of Ultra- Sonic Welding in HDPE-5%PBI Composite by CODAS Decision-Making Approach
Authors: M Ramesh , Kavan Panneerselvam
Published: February 2022

Engineering plastics are increasingly being used in structural and non-structural applications. As the need for plastics grows, so do the joining requirements. Ultrasonic welding is one of the favoured processes for polymer composites among numerous approaches, especially for bonding plates, automotive panel boards and couplings due to its joint quality and low cost. The High-density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix was reinforced with 5 wt.% of polybenzimidazole (PBI) fibre by twin screw extrusion process and welding samples were prepared using injection moulding. In this study, Ultrasonic welding was used to connect 4-mm-thick lapped HDPE-5wt. % PBI composites. Taguchi-based L27 orthogonal array was employed for experiments to study the lateral shear strength (LSS) and Shore-D-Hardness for the input parameters (i) weld duration (30,45 and 60 ms), (ii) Amplitude (19,20 and 21 Hz) and (iii) Horn pressure (1.5,2 and 2.5 MPa). The relevance of the parameters affecting shear strength and hardness of weld was studied using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The ultrasonic welding process was carried out, and the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach was used to optimise the process parameters. To determine the optimal amount of input parameters for multi-objective optimization criteria on Shear strength and Shore D Hardness, entropy approach weights 0.5, 0.5 are combined with combinative distance-based assessment (CODAS) technique. From CODAS assessment the relative evaluation score of 2.444 was achieved by the twenty fifth experiment having the input parameters (IP) at 60 ms welding time, Amplitude of 21 Hz and Pressure at 2.5 MPa. Fractography and weld morphology of welded joints were investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM).
Complete mitochondrial genome revealed different taxonomic assignment of the fungus Pleurocordyceps sinensis (Hypocreales, Ascomycota)
Authors: Li Yi , Wang Yong-Hui , Lin Jie , Wang Ke , Wang Ren-Lei , Zhao Xin-Chang , Yao Yi-Jian
Published: February 2022

The complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of Pleurocordyceps sinensis, a fungus originally isolated from Ophiocordyceps sinensis was sequenced, and assembled as a single circular DNA of 31,841 bp. The mt genome encoded 15 conserved proteins (rps3, cox1, cox2, cox3, cob, atp6, atp8, atp9, nad1, nad2, nad3, nad4, nad4L, nad5 and nad6), 2 rRNA (rnl and rns) and 25 tRNA, as well as 10 additional non-conserved open reading frames. Comparative analyses showed that mt genomes within the order Hypocreales encoded same number and synteny of conserved protein coding genes despite an obvious size variation among this group of fungi. Phylogenetic analyses using 14 conserved protein sequences revealed that this fungus may not belong to the current designated family Ophiocordycipitaceae but is more closely related to the species of Clavicipitaceae. The mt genome presented herein would aid to clarify the phylogenetic position of species of Polycephalomyces s. l. and also gave valuable information on reconstructing the evolutionary history of clavicipitaceous fungi.
Exploring the Prevalence and Impact of Hip and Knee Pain in Pulmonary Rehabilitation: a Propensity-Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Briggs-Price Samuel , Daynes Enya , Chaplin Emma , Ward Sarah , Houchen-Wolloff Linzy , Singh Sally J.
Published: February 2022

BackgroundMusculoskeletal pain is more common in individuals with chronic respiratory diseases than the aged-matched general population. This investigation aimed to understand the prevalence and impact of hip and knee pain on Pulmonary Rehabilitation outcomes and completion rates.MethodsParticipants who experienced hip/knee pain in the 4 weeks prior to Pulmonary Rehabilitation completed an Oxford Hip and/or Knee Score alongside a routine Pulmonary Rehabilitation assessment. Participants engaged in a twice-weekly, 6-week outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation programme. A 1:1 propensity score match for age, sex, BMI, sessions attended and MRC score was completed prior to group comparison for a Pulmonary Rehabilitation cohort without hip/knee painResults6.5% (n=97) of Pulmonary Rehabilitation participants reported pain: hip (n=27), knee (n=40) or hip and knee pain (n=30). 75 participants with hip/knee pain provided sufficient data for pre Pulmonary Rehabilitation matching and were propensity matched with a Pulmonary Rehabilitation group without hip/knee pain. The average Oxford Score across all reported joints was 28.7 (8.5) indicating moderate/severe pain at baseline. Statistically significant improvements were made in Oxford Scores for the left hip, left knee and right knee (P<0.01) but not the right hip following Pulmonary Rehabilitation. There was no statistically significant difference between groups for improvements in quadriceps strength, walking tests or depression scores, both groups achieved within group significance. There were no significant differences in Pulmonary Rehabilitation completion rates between groups.ConclusionsPrevalence of hip/knee pain in individuals presenting to Pulmonary Rehabilitation is 6.5%. Pain improved in the majority of joints following Pulmonary Rehabilitation and pain did not impact the effectiveness or completion of the programme.Trial RegistrationThis trial has not been registered in a public domain
CircCUX1 Promotes Colorectal Cancer Progression by the microRNA 500a-3p/MUC4/β-catenin/C-MYC Axis and Is Regulated by ELAVL1
Authors: Zhou Jingyu , Sun Xudong , Wang Jiaqi , Zhou Lei , Gao Hong , Jiang Tao , Song Hu , Zhang Yi , Song Jun
Published: February 2022

Background
Noncoding circRNAs becoming an increasingly prominent topic of scientific study in a variety of cancers. Nevertheless, the regulatory mechanism of circRNAs in colorectal cancer(CRC) remain have not been described in detail.
Methods
Sanger sequencing, RT-qPCR and Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were used to analyse the expression and localization of circCUX1.The biological function of circCUX1 in CRC was studied by using CCK8, colony formation, EDU, Transwell and metastasis models. In terms of mechanism, western blot, luciferase reporter gene detection, RIP, ChIRP were performed.
Results
CircCUX1 was overexpressed in both cells and tissues from CRC patients. CircCUX1 overexpression was strongly linked with clinicopathological features and prognosis of colorectal patients. Functionally, CircCUX1 promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, circCUX1 sponged miR-500a-3p to upregulate MUC4 expression, thereby promoting the nuclear accumulation of β-catenin, and finally promoting C-MYC transcription. On the other hand, circCUX1 recruited ELAVL1 to increased C-MYC stability.
Conclusions
Our study for the first time reveals the specific mechanisms by which circCUX1 regulates CRC progression through two pathways, and provides a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of CRC.
One-stage freehand minimally invasive pedicle screw fixation combined with mini-access surgery through OLIF approach for the treatment of lumbar tuberculosis
Authors: Gu Yutong , Fan Wenshuai , Yang Guangling , Zhou Tianyao , Chen Yanchao , Gao Zhenchao , Zhou Weili
Published: February 2022

Objective: To compare one-stage freehand minimally invasive pedicle screw fixation (freehand MIPS) combined with mini-access surgery through OLIF approach with posterior approach for treatment of lumbar tuberculosis (TB), and evaluate its feasibility, efficacy and safety in debridement, bone graft fusion and internal fixation. Methods: 48 patients with single segment lumbar TB from June 2014 to June 2017 were included. Among them, 22 patients underwent one-stage freehand MIPS combined with mini-access surgery through OLIF approach (group 1), 26 patients were treated with posterior open surgery (group 2). Duration of operation, blood loss, and stay time in hospital were compared. Pre- and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, Oswestry disability index (ODI), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), complications and images were also recorded. Results: Patients in group 1 showed significantly less blood loss (165±73ml vs 873±318ml, P<0.001), shorter stay time in hospital (6/4-8 days vs 12/8-15days, P<0.001), while longer duration of operation (185±14min vs 171±12min, P<0.001) than group 2 did. VAS scores significantly decreased after surgery in both groups, however, VAS scores of group 1 were significantly lower than that of group 2 immediately after surgery and during follow-ups (P<0.001). ODI of group 1 was also significantly lower than that of group 2 at 12-month after surgery (P<0.001). Conclusion: One-stage freehand MIPS combined with mini-access surgery through OLIF approach is a feasible, efficient and safe method in treating single segment lumbar TB. It shows advantages of less surgical trauma and faster postoperative recovery.
Heavy Metals In Commonly Consumed Root And Leafy Vegetables In Dhaka City, Bangladesh, And Assessment Of Associated Public Health Risks
Authors: Sultana Romana , Tanvir Rahamat Ullah , Hussain Kazi Albab , Chamon Afrose Sultana , Mondol Md. Nadiruzzaman
Published: February 2022

Background: Excess accumulation of heavy metals in frequently consumed food (e.g., vegetables, fruits) is a serious threat to human health. The concentration of heavy metals in four root vegetables and five leafy vegetables collected from the Kawran Bazar fresh vegetable market of Dhaka, Bangladesh, were analyzed. Average daily intake (ADI), hazard quotient (HQ), and hazard index (HI) were also estimated to assess the human health risks posed by the intake of heavy metals from the consumption of the studied vegetables. Apparent differences in the concentration of heavy metals present in different vegetables were observed. Results: The presence and degree of contamination was assessed for chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn). Concentrations of Cr, Cd, Ni, and Cu exceeded the maximum permissible limit (MPL) in some root vegetables. Cr, Cd, Pb, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Fe concentration were higher in most studied leafy vegetables. ADI was found to be lower than the maximum permitted tolerable daily intake in most cases except Cr (0.202 mg/person∙day) and Fe (19.681 mg/person∙day) for the consumption of turnip and mint, respectively. Hazard quotient of Cr for turnip (1.121) and Zn for spinach (1.104), as well as the hazard indices of turnip (1.541), mustard (1.663), spinach (2.113), coriander (1.925), and mint (2.834), exceeded unit value, signifying potential health hazard from the dietary intake of the studied vegetables. Conclusions: Higher concentrations of heavy metals were found in leafy vegetables compared to the root vegetables. Hence, the consumption of leafy vegetables has higher potential health risks than root vegetables. This study suggests that regular monitoring of heavy metals in vegetables is essential to prevent health risks associated with consuming heavy metal contaminated vegetables.
Simulating Derivations of Context-Free Grammar
Authors: VAYADANDE KULDEEP
Published: February 2022

As opposed to automata, grammars are used to generate strings instead of identifying them. The use of regular languages and finite automata is simple and restrictive. Context-Free Grammar or CFG is a formal grammar used to produce all possible combinations of strings in a given formal language. Context-Free Grammar consists of a set of grammar rules which are finite and predetermined. In computer science, a CFG is said to be ambiguous if a given string could be generated by the grammar in more than one way. Syntax of high-level programming languages, Parser programs and compiler design can be described using Context-Free Grammar. This paper presents a method to implement the derivations of Context-Free Grammar using Python. By applying an appropriate production rule to the leftmost non-terminal in each step, a leftmost derivation is obtained. On the contrary, by applying the appropriate production rule to the rightmost non-terminal in each step, a rightmost derivation is obtained.
Effects of Methanolic extract of Phoenix dactylifera L. seeds (PDS) on blood glucose levels of normoglycemic and Dexamethasone induced Diabetic rabbits
Authors: Abdullah Ahlam , Al-bokai Nuha
Published: February 2022

Background
This study aimed to evaluating anti-diabetic potential of the Methanolic extract of date palm seed (PDS) in dexamethasone (DMTZ) -induced diabetic rabbits. Dates have been used as an antidiabetic and antioxidant agents. The seeds of the date palm have also been shown to have nutritional and therapeutic properties.
Materials and Methods
The intraperitoneal injection of Dexamethasone (DMTZ) (150 mg/kg), experimental diabetes was induced in 42 male rabbits. The rabbits were divided into seven groups and administered the following treatments orally for 30 days: normal control (no treatment), placebo group, diabetic (no treatment), diabetic with PDS extract (200 mg/kg/day, P.O), diabetic with PDS extract (400 mg/kg/day, P.O), diabetic with PDS extract (400 mg/kg/day, P.O) with insulin (2UI/ kg B.Wt.), and diabetic with insulin (2UI/ kg B.Wt.). Histopathological examination of the pancreas was performed. The results are expressed as mean ± SD and variations of some organizations of some animals were compared in the using of one-way ANOVA. Statistical significance was set at P ≤ 0.05. Statistical evaluation was performed using Microsoft Excel, and SPSS software version.
Results
The Methanolic PDS extract has been shown to have a significant anti-diabetic effect (P ≤ 0.05). This effect may be due to the presence of flavonoids and fatty acids in the extract, which could function through different mechanisms. Furthermore, pancreas tissue regeneration was histologically clean. However, further research is needed to isolate and elucidate the bioactive compound(s) responsible for its anti-diabetic properties, as well as its molecular mechanism of action.
Conclusion
This study suggests the anti-diabetic potential of date palm seed extract, which might be due to its hypoglycemic properties
Impact of COVID-19 induced lockdown on the OPD patients of Diabetes, Hypertension, Stroke (CVA), Acute Heart Disease, Mental Illness, Epilepsy, Ophthalmic, Dental and oncology in India- A Cross-Sectional Research Study
Authors: Kumar Piyush
Published: February 2022

The First global covid-19 patient was reported from Wuhan city in China (Hubei Province) during December 2019. India’s first suspected patient of SARS-CoV-2 infection was reported on 27th of January 2020, from Kerala state, which had a travel history of Wuhan city in china. This suspected case was tested and reported as the first covid-19 positive case by the (NIV) National Institute of Virology, Pune, on January 30, 2020. The government of India like other global countries responded to this novel disease by enforcing complete nationwide lockdown starting on 25/03/2020 and ending on 31/05/2020. In this cross-sectional research study, I had done assessment of the impact of covid-19 induced lockdown on OPD patients of few non communicable diseases (NCD). The data for different quantitative variables were collected for 12 months before and after lockdown, observed, analyzed for the years 2019, 2020, 2021. The complete lockdown period of April-May 2020 is compared with the previous 12 months of lockdown (including period of March 2020 which had only last 7 days of complete lockdown) as well as later 12 months. Also the lockdown months (April-May-2020) were compared to previous (April-May-2019) as well as next (April-May-2021) year same months. Here the researcher would like to emphasize that different months of years may have different numbers of patients due to seasonal and geographical variations in prevalence of diseases. The researcher had included the month of March 2020 in order to show the trends of OPD numbers to closest timeline before the lockdown. The OPD (outpatient Department) services for the patients of significant NCD burden such as Diabetes, Hypertension, Stroke (CVA), Acute Heart Disease, Mental Illness, Epilepsy, Ophthalmic, Dental and oncology were selected for this study-analysis to assess the difference between pre and post intervention (lockdown). The author previous preprints on this research study are mentioned in note and acknowledgement. This research study revealed that COVID-19 induced lockdown period have negative impact on NCD (non-communicable disease) - OPD health services utilization. Non-communicable diseases are the major burden of disease in India as well as at global levels. The researcher had done this study to draw the attention of policy makers and governments to give more attention on emphasis and priority for NCDs care in any situations of emergency like pandemic and natural calamities, lockdowns etc which usually disrupt routine healthcare. Routine healthcare is very essential and significant in context of chronic diseases which can be converted to acute emergency conditions like CVA due to lack of care and proper-timely treatments.
Optimizing the secondary use of primary care prescribing data to improve quality of care: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Barbazza Erica , Verheij Robert , Ramerman Lotte , Klazinga Niek , Kringos Dionne
Published: February 2022

Objectives. To explore available data sources, secondary uses, and key considerations for optimizing the actionability of primary care prescribing data to improve quality of care in the Dutch context.Design. An exploratory qualitative study was undertaken based on semi-structured interviews. We anchored our investigation around three tracer prescription types: antibiotics; benzodiazepines; and opioids. Descriptive and explanatory themes were derived from interview data using thematic analysis.Setting. Stakeholders were sampled from across the micro (clinical), meso (organizational), and macro (policy) contexts of the Dutch primary care system.Participants. The study involved 28 informants representing general practitioners (GPs), community pharmacists, regional chronic care networks (care groups), academia and research institutes, insurers, professional associations, electronic health record (EHR) vendors, and national authorities.Results. In the Netherlands, three main sources of data for improving prescribing in primary care are in use: clinical data in the EHRs of GP practices; pharmacy data in community pharmacy databases; and claims data of insurers. While the secondary use of pharmacy and claims data is well-established across levels, the use of these data together with EHR data is limited. Important differences in the types of prescribing information needed by micro-meso-macro context are found, though the extent to which current indicators address these varies by prescription type. Five main themes were identified as areas for optimizing data use: (1) measuring what matters, (2) increasing data linkages, (3) improving data quality, (4) facilitating data sharing, and (5) optimizing fit for use analysis.Conclusions. To make primary care prescribing data useful for improving quality, consolidated patient-specific data on the indication for a prescription and dispensed medicine, over time, is needed. In the Netherlands, the selection of indicators requires further prioritization to better signal the appropriateness and long-term use of prescription drugs. Prioritizing data linkages is critical towards more actionable use.
The design process of the chassis of a prototype vehicle for Shell Eco-marathon
Authors: Odi-Owei Steven , Anisiji Emeka Obiora , Erukainure Frank Efe
Published: February 2022

This paper presents the design, modelling, and fabrication procedures for the chassis of a prototype car with the aim of achieving the objectives: rigid and high strength chassis, reduced vehicle weight, driver safety, and an energy efficient vehicle. The novelty of this work is that it demonstrates how aluminium alloy could be used to construct non-integrated chassis for super mileage vehicles through a load-stress calculation model. Furthermore, a method of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was presented which achieves the same result as the analytical calculation. The work also presents a method of fabricating aluminium square tube for the chassis by joining two angle bars. The results show that the FEA approach agrees with the analytical design model thereby reducing the time consumed in conceptual design process. The fabricated chassis was found to show no cracks and it was able to resist bending and shear from the loads acting on the vehicle in line with the design data. The energy efficiency recorded from the first test-run of the vehicle was 250 km/L of gasoline. The methods presented could be characterized as accurate and reliable for manufacturers of super mileage racing cars for Shell Eco-marathon events.
CTMC Analyzing NAFLD Progression (Small Model)
Authors: Attia Iman M.
Published: February 2022

In this article, I tackle the problem of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) from the statistical point of view. Using the multistate model, in the form of the continuous time Markov chains, helps the statistical analysis of the progression of the disease over time. The simplest model of the health-disease-death process is applied to the NAFLD. The model is composed of 8 pdfs and 5 rates that need to be estimated. Maximum likelihood and quasi-Newton methods are applied to estimate the transition rates among states. Exponentiation of this estimated rate matrix yields the transition probability matrix. This transition probability matrix can also be estimated from solving the forward Kolmogorov differential equations. Testing time homogeneity of this CTMC that model the disease process is also discussed by the author. This can be achieved by finding an empirical probability matrix that equates the exponentiation of the transition rate matrix, which is thoroughly investigated in the chapter. Also the embedding problem that may arise when trying to find the transition rate matrix from the transition probability matrix of the corresponding discrete time model is clarified. Testing Markovian property of the chain is also presented. Some remarks are also highlighted as regard the state probability distribution and the stationary probability distribution.
Effects of social restrictions on people with dementia and carers during the pre-vaccine phase of the COVID-19 pandemic: experiences of IDEAL cohort participants
Authors: Pentecost Claire , Collins Rachel , Stapley Sally , Victor Christina , Quinn Catherine , Hillman Alexandra , Litherland Rachael , Allan Louise , Clare Linda
Published: February 2022

This qualitative study was designed to understand the impact of social distancing measures on people with dementia and carers living in the community during a period of ongoing restrictions before the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out in England and Wales. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 people with dementia and 10 carers (including 3 dyads) living in the community in England and Wales. Participants were recruited during November and December 2020. We used framework analysis to identify issues and elicit suggestions for potential solutions. We identified three interrelated themes. People with dementia experienced a fear of decline in capabilities or mood and attempted to mitigate this. Carers were aware of changes in the person with dementia and an increase in caring responsibilities and for some, there was a change in the relationship. Subsequently, reduced confidence in capabilities to navigate a new and hostile environment created a cyclical dilemma of returning to ‘normal’ where not returning to usual activities made things worse. People with dementia and carers had feelings of neglect and being alone in their struggle, alongside feeling socially excluded during the pandemic when comparing themselves to others in society, and there was little optimism associated with the upcoming vaccine programme. People found their own solutions to reduce the effects of isolation by keeping busy and socially active and practising skills deemed to help reduce the progression of dementia. This and some limited local public initiatives for the general public facilitated feelings of social inclusion. This study adds understanding to existing evidence about the longer-term experience of social isolation several months into the pandemic highlighting the importance of health and community groups and how services can find ways to support, include and interact with people with dementia and carers during and after social restrictions.
Results on some special functions related to primes and a lemma regarding Carmichael’s conjecture
Authors: Das Abhishek
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we prove a few lemmas and theorems pertinent to special functions like the Riemann zeta function, the Von Mangoldt function, the Euler totient function and the prime counting function, all of them being related to primes.
A New Approach to Estimate the Critical Shear Stress of Stiffened Plate Girder
Authors: Hamed Asmaa Y
Published: February 2022

Despite years of studies on critical bucking stresses, choosing the perfect boundary conditions at the junction between the web plate and flange & stiffener is still a question of engineering judgment. A conservative design criterion is adopted by all current codes of practice and standards at this juncture, based on the simply supported boundary conditions. However, in this study, we have proved Two theoretical methods were employed to investigate such situation that the boundary conditions along the junction between the webs and the flanges as built-in and the other boundary conditions along the position of the vertical stiffeners are assumed to be simply supported due to the relatively small stiffness of the stiffeners could be reached. The first method using the minimum potential energy concept to obtain a semi-exact equation from which the interaction equation can be deduced. The second method is performed by using a finite element technique (ANSYS software) to investigate the effects of the geometric parameters on the boundary conditions at the juncture.
ReporTree: a surveillance-oriented tool to strengthen the linkage between pathogen genetic clusters and epidemiological data
Authors: Mixão Verónica , Pinto Miguel , Gomes João Paulo , Borges Vitor
Published: February 2022

Genomics-informed pathogen surveillance strengthens public health decision-making, thus playing an important role in infectious diseases’ prevention and control. A pivotal outcome of genomics surveillance is the identification of pathogen genetic clusters and their characterization in terms of geotemporal spread or linkage to clinical and demographic data. This task often consists of the visual exploration of (large) phylogenetic trees and associated metadata, being time consuming and difficult to reproduce. For this reason, we developed ReporTree, an automated surveillance-oriented pipeline that allows diving into the complexity of pathogen diversity to rapidly identify genetic clusters at any (or all) distance threshold(s) of a tree, identify regions of cluster stability (key step in nomenclature design), and further characterize them according to any relevant feature, such as timespan, geography or clinical status. To validate ReporTree, we reproduced a large-scale study on genetic clustering and linkage to antibiotic resistance data in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Also, we show how this tool can be a useful asset in genomics-informed routine surveillance and outbreak detection of a wide variety of species, providing examples for SARS-CoV-2 virus and the foodborne bacterial pathogen Listeria monocytogenes. In summary, ReporTree facilitates and accelerates the production of surveillance-oriented reports, thus contributing to a sustainable and efficient public health genomics-informed pathogen surveillance.Availability and implementation: ReporTree is implemented in python 3.6 and is freely available at https://github.com/insapathogenomics/ReporTree.
Outcomes of Heavily Experienced HIV-Infected Patients Receiving Salvage Raltegravir-Based Therapy
Authors: Escarcina Jesús Enrique Patiño , Netto Eduardo Martins , Brites Carlos
Published: February 2022

Objectives
To assess real-life virologic success, long-term survival, and adverse events in treatment-experienced patients initiating either raltegravir or other third-line drugs (darunavir/ritonavir, maraviroc or etravirine) for salvage regimens in a Brazilian cohort of heavily treated patients.
Results
We included 168 patients initiating salvage regimens, 123 on raltegravir and 45 on other drugs (darunavir/ritonavir, maraviroc or etravirine). Of these, 90 patients were matched by Propensity score (PS) methods to account for clinical differences at the time of the switch from failing ART regimens, 45 patients from each group. During follow-up, virologic suppression (PVL<50 copies/mL) was similar for both groups (77.8% vs. 82.2%, p=0.73). During a mean follow-up of 1.09 (SD = 0.32) years, mortality rates (4.04 vs 6.18 persons per 100 person-years; p=0.67), drug toxicity (0.00 vs 2.06 persons per 100 person-years; p=0.49), treatment interruption (8.07 vs 0.00 persons per 100 person-years; p=0.06), virologic failure (2.02 vs 4.12 persons per 100 person-years; p=0.61) and loss of follow-up (6.05 vs 4.12 persons per 100 person-years; p=0.70) were similar for both groups. Our findings suggest similar survival and virologic success rates for raltegravir and other drugs for salvage regimens, with similar drug toxicity rates, treatment interruption, virologic failure, and loss of follow-up.
Identification of methylation driven biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis in colorectal cancer by Integrative Analysis of TCGA, GTEx, and GEO database
Authors: Cao Lichao , Li Tong , Ba Ying , Chen Erfei , Yang Jin , Zhang Hezi
Published: February 2022

Background: This work investigates the use of methylation driven biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) by mining DNA methylation and gene expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), the Genotype-Tissue Expression project (GTEx), and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO).
Methods: The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were screened using mRNA expression and DNA methylation data from TCGA, respectively. The methylation driven genes (MDGs) of CRC were further identified using the MethylMix R package. Subsequently, the MDGs were analyzed with Random Forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and logistic regression (LR) algorithms to establish diagnosis prediction models as independent indicators using mRNA expression data from TCGA and GTEx. The RF algorithm was determined to be the most suitable and used to construct the diagnostic model with the combined MDGs, which was then validated by GSE39582 from GEO. Prognostic biomarkers were used to establish the risk score model, which was generated by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Moreover, we constructed and validated a nomogram that integrated the risk score and clinical information, including age, gender, and tumor stage.
Results: 9 out of 10 MDGs performed well as independent diagnostic predictors, and STK33 and EPHX4 were also found to be associated with overall survival (OS). The results of the nomogram suggest that it is a better predictive model for prognosis than the risk score model.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the identified MDGs could be biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of CRC.