bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unusual presentation of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpra in a newly diagnosed pediatric patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in the setting of MIS-C
Authors: Al-Antary Eman , Arar Rewa , Persaud Yogindra , Fathalla Basil , Rajpurkar Madhvi , Bhambhani Kanta
Published: January 2024

The understanding of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) immune
dysregulation is evolving. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a
multisystem autoimmune disease with alternations in both innate and
adaptive immunity, probably caused by a complex interplay of genetics
and environmental exposure with various triggers. A rare hematological
complication of SLE as well as recently reported in adult with COVID-19
is thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). We report a pediatric case
with features suggestive of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in
children (MIS-C) with coronary artery ectasia, TTP, autoimmune hemolytic
anemia (AIHA) and thrombocytopenia with new onset SLE as well.
Interplay between circular RNA, microRNA, and human diseases
Authors: Kour Bimaljeet , Gupta Suruchi , Singh Ravail , Yengkhom Sophiarani , PAUL PROSENJIT
Published: January 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are endogenous RNA formed by the back splicing
process. They are ubiquitous, stable, evolutionally conserved, and are
tissue-specific. CircRNAs have numerous latent modes of action, from
acting as sponges for microRNAs and RNA binding proteins to serving as
transcriptional regulators, epigenetic alterations, etc. Dysregulated
functioning of several circular RNAs leads to the progression of a
plethora of diseases. CircRNAs have paved the way for advanced clinical
studies as a novel method of disease diagnosis. This review
systematically summarized and evaluated the role of differentially
expressed circRNAs in four human diseases, including neurodegenerative
diseases, diabetes, osteoarthritis, and cardiovascular diseases.
Adverse Cutaneous Outbreaks by programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) immune checkpoint inhibitors: A Review.
Authors: Bhardwaj Maitry , Chiu Mei Nee , Sah Sangeeta
Published: January 2024

The therapeutic use of humanized monoclonal anti-programmed cell death 1
(PD-1) (pembrolizumab, and nivolumab) and anti-programmed cell death
ligand1 (PD-L1) (atezolizumab, avelumab, durvalumab) as potent
anticancer therapies is rapidly increasing. The mechanism of signaling
of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 involves triggering cytotoxic CD4+/CD8+T cell
activation, which induces specific immunologic adverse events. The
anti-PD-1/PD-L1 drugs can cause numerous cases of cutaneous reactions,
hence these toxicities are characterized as the most frequent
immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The majority of cutaneous irAEs
triggered by immune checkpoint inhibitors range from nonspecific
eruptions to detectible skin manifestations, which may be self-limiting
and present an acceptable skin toxicity profile, while some may produce
mild to life-threatening complications. This review aims to illuminate
the associated cutaneous adverse events related to the drugs used in
oncology along with the relevant mechanism(s). With this review article,
an overview of the various adverse cutaneous manifestations of anti-PD-1
(pembrolizumab, and nivolumab) and anti-PD-L1 (atezolizumab, avelumab,
durvalumab) therapy, as well as suggestions, have been provided, so that
their recognition at early stages could help in better management and
would prevent treatment discontinuation.
The effects of L-Carnitine supplementation on inflammatory markers, clinical status, and 28 days, mortality in critically ill patients: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Yahyapoor Farveh , Sedaghat Alireza , FEIZI AWAT , Bagherniya Mohammad , Pahlavani Naseh , rezaian majid khadem , Safarian Mohammad , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Arabi Mostafa , zarifi Sudiyeh hejri , Norouzy Abdolreza
Published: January 2024

Aim: Critical ill patients experience catabolic stress which results in
the systemic inflammatory response. The inflammatory response is
associated with increased complications including infection, multi-organ
dysfunction, increased length of ICU stays, and mortality. L-Carnitine
supplementation may play an important role in these patients by
regulating inflammatory cell function. The purpose of the present study
was to investigate the effect of L-Carnitine supplementation on clinical
status, inflammatory markers, and mortality rate in critically ill
patients admitted in the intensive care unit(ICU) Methods: This
randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed on
critically ill patients. Subjects were randomly assigned into placebo
(n=27) and L-Carnitine (n=27) groups. L-Carnitine (3000mg/day) was
administered via nasogastric tube for the intervention group for 7 days
while the other group received a placebo for the same duration. Serum
levels of inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein (CRP) and
interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured. Nutritional status and the acute
physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) score, sequential
organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, and 28-day mortality were also
recorded. Results: Fifty-one critically ill patients completed the
study. L-Carnitine supplementation significantly reduced the levels of
CRP (mean change± SE: -34.9 ± 6.5) and IL-6 (mean change ±SE: -10.64 ±
2.16) compared to the baseline, which are both statistically significant
compared with the control group (p<0.05). The SOFA and APACHE
scores were significantly reduced in the L-Carnitine group compared with
the placebo group (p=0.02 and p<0.001, respectively).
Conclusions: L-Carnitine supplementation has substantial beneficial
effects on inflammatory and clinical outcomes of critically ill
patients.
Filgrastim Desensitization in a Patient with Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Jeter Hannah , Grisanti Kathleen , Jantz Amelia , Wadhwa Aman , Waite Emily
Published: January 2024

Filgrastim is a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) that
stimulates the production of neutrophils, and is used to prevent or
treat febrile neutropenia in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs) to G-CSF formulations, such as
filgrastim, pegfilgrastim and biosimilars are rare, and few reports
exist regarding desensitization protocols, particularly in the pediatric
population. In this brief report, we describe successful desensitization
and subsequent use of G-CSF (biosimilar product Nivestym®) in an
adolescent with Hodgkin lymphoma who experienced anaphylaxis after her
first dose.
Effects of rocky desertification habitat on main secondary metabolites of Akebia trifoliata
Authors: Yu Xiaosong , Wang Xiaohong , Liu Zhi , Li Lin , Yang Ningxian , Zhang Mingsheng
Published: January 2024

In recent years, Akebia trifoliata used to restore rocky desertification
environment. We first discovered that the medicinal content of A.
trifoliata will increase in rocky desertification habitats, but its
mechanism of action is not clear. In this study, A. trifoliata was
planted in normal habitats and rocky desertification habitats, and
changes in the content of secondary metabolites and related enzyme
activities were analyzed. The results showed that: (1) the biomass of
the roots, stems and leaf of A. trifoliata reduced significantly, but
the content of secondary metabolites increased significantly in rocky
desertification habitats. It is mainly reflected in the content of
tannins in leaves, flavonoids in roots, and total phenols in roots,
stems and leaves. (2) A. trifoliata changed the enzyme activities of PAL
(Phenylalanine ammonialyase), C4H (Cinnamate-4-Hydroxylase) and 4CL
(4-Coumarate: Coenzyme A Ligase), thereby regulated the increase in the
content of secondary metabolites in rocky desertification habitat. (3)
the content of medicinal components of A. trifoliata increased
significantly in rocky desertification habitat. The highest content of
oleanolic acid in the roots from July to August, and the highest content
of α-hederagenins in the stems in July; (4) principal component analysis
showed that the main response index of A. trifoliata secondary
metabolites and related enzymes in rocky desertification habitats was
total phenols. This study revealed the response mechanism of A.
trifoliata secondary metabolites and related enzymes in rocky
desertification habitats. It not only provided a new choice for the
exploiting of medicinal resources of A. trifoliata, but also provided a
new theoretical basis for A. trifoliata to restore rocky desertification
environment.
Evaluating serum Neuregulin 4 as a non-invasive biomarker in Egyptian patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Gado Tarek H. , Asal Sara A. , Abdelraouf Fatma H. , Samie Rasha M. Abdel
Published: January 2024

Abstract Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) spectrum
ranges from simple hepatic steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Considering the restrictions of liver biopsy, various serological
biomarkers have recently emerged for non-invasive diagnosis of NAFLD.
Aim of work: Evaluating the association between serum neuregulin 4 and
NAFLD and the use serum Neuregulin 4 (Nrg4) as a non-invasive marker for
diagnosis of NAFLD. Patients and Methods: Sixty-three Egyptian NAFLD
patients and 63 control subjects were enrolled Detailed history taking,
thorough clinical examination including anthropometric measures (Body
mass index (BMI) and waist circumference) and laboratory investigations
including complete blood count, lipid profile (total cholesterol, LDL-C,
HDL-C, triglycerides), serum albumin, transaminases, bilirubin levels,
hepatitis markers (anti-HCV antibodies and HBsAg), anti-nuclear
antibodies and anti-smooth muscle antibody were performed. Measurement
of serum Neuregulin 4 (Nrg4) by ELISA and non-invasive NAFLD scores such
as NAFLD fibrosis score and FIB4 score were applied to all patients.
Results: There was a statistically significant difference between cases
and controls regarding the BMI, waist circumference, haemoglobin level,
total leucocytic count, total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, and serum
triglycerides levels. Nrg4 was significantly decreased in NAFLD patients
as compared to controls. Moreover, Nrg4, total cholesterol, LDL-C levels
were statistically significant independent predictors of NAFLD. No
significant differences were observed between Nrg4 level and the
variable stages of hepatic fibrosis by NAFLD fibrosis score. Conclusion:
Decreased serum Nrg4 level is frequent in NAFLD patients and is an
independent predictor of NAFLD suggesting that Nrg4 might have a
potential role in prevention and treatment of NAFLD. Keywords:
Neuregulin-4, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Non-invasive biomarker,
Egyptian patients.
Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery Combined with Acute Subendocardial Myocardial Infarction:A Rare Case Report
Authors: yifan Deng , Jun Ji , Zhen Fang , Xiaoting Xu , chengye Dai , Shenghu He , Jing Zhang
Published: January 2024

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) is a rare
congenital coronary artery development anomalies disease. We reported a
15-year-old male who presented loss of consciousness and cardiogenic
shock after strenuous exercise. After Veno-arterial extracorporeal
membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO), intra-aortic balloon counter-pacing pump
(IABP), continuous renal replacement (CRRT) and other comprehensive
treatments were given immediately, the patient’s condition gradually
improved and was diagnosed as “abnormal coronary origin with acute
subendocardial myocardial infarction” by coronary computed tomography
angiography (CTA) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Such diseases
progress rapidly and are at high risk of sudden death. Clinicians need
to give life supports in time to improve the prognosis of patients.
Predictive Factors of Chronic Kidney Disease After Surgical Treatment of Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: CAN OSMAN , Sabuncu Kenan , erkoc mustafa , Bozkurt Muammer , Danis Eyyup , Degirmentepe Recep Burak , Otunctemur Alper
Published: January 2024

Aims: Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) incidence is increasing with common
using of imaging modalities. The kidney may lose some of its functional
nephrons after surgical treatment. Therefore, functional results also
important with oncological outcomes. The aim of this study is
determination of predictor factors for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
development after surgical treatment. Methods: Patients with eGFR above
60 ml/min/1.73m2 who underwent partial or radical nephrectomy were
included in the study. Demographic information, surgical features, eGFR
values and some comorbidities of patients were recorded. Patients were
evaluated regarding to CKD development after surgery. Results: One
hundred and sixty six patients underwent radical nephrectomy or partial
nephrectomy were included to study. According to comparing analysis,
age, type of surgery, tumors size and preoperative eGFR are
statistically significant clinical factor for CKD development.
Conclusion: CKD is an important disease that causes morbidity and
mortality. Age, type of surgery and preoperative eGFR are an independent
risk factor for CKD development.
Dynamic changes of the neutralizing antibodies levels in COVID-19 patients as a potential tool in differential diagnosis
Authors: Xing Dongyang , Gao Dandan , Yin Junguo , Zhang Wenyan , Xu Jiancheng
Published: January 2024

Background: Neutralizing antibody (NAb) is an important immunological
marker in Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aims to
explore the different changes of NAbs level in COVID-19 patients and
screen specific laboratory findings to predict disease severity.
Methods: Eighty-eight COVID-19 patients, forty-eight healthy controls
and sixty-two healthy vaccinated people were included. Epidemiological,
clinical and laboratory data were obtained from the electronic medical
record information system. The NAbs levels were determined by the double
antibody sandwich method. The first set of laboratory results of the
COVID-19 patients was selected after onset to construct the receiver
operating characteristic curve (ROC). Correlation curves were also
constructed to explore the relationship between laboratory findings and
NAbs. Results: In mild cases of COVID-19, NAbs levels reached the peak
at 25-30 days after onset. NAbs levels during convalescence were lower
than those after onset and were found to gradually decrease during 0-15
days. In severe cases, NAbs levels peaked at 20-25 days after onset. The
ROC analysis demonstrated that the area under the curve of C-reactive
protein (CRP) was 0.94 at 20.42 mg/L cut-off with sensitivity and
specificity of 100% and 82% respectively. The levels of NAbs, CRP,
glucose (Glu), neutrophils (NE) and urea nitrogen (Urea) in mild cases
were lower than those in severe cases (p<0.05). Correlation
analysis showed that CRP was positively associated with NAbs.
Conclusion: The levels of NAbs dynamically changes at different stages
in COVID-19 patients with various severities. CRP and other laboratory
findings provide the basis for clinical differential diagnosis.
Analysis of feed preference of edible termites on selected plants and their crude extract photochemistry.
Authors: AMEKA CALEB , Muok Benard , Oyieke Helida
Published: January 2024

Termites are social insects that live in colonies underground. Termites
feed on a wide range of plants found within diverse habitats of Luanda
sub County. This study aimed at assessing feed preference of edible
termites and analyzing their phytochemical composition. In this study,
termites were exposed to ten different test plants in their natural
habitats to assess feed preference. The test plants were Grevillea
robusta, Sugarcane, maize, Blue citronella grass, Eucalyptus, Mango,
Avocado, Neem, Bamboo and a mixture of all the ten plants. Small pits
were dug in the ground where the ten treatments were placed and
replicated four times each. The test plants were placed in the evening
then covered with soil block. The number of termites feeding on the test
plants was counted after 12 hours the following day. There were separate
trials for crushed and uncrushed feed substrates. The feed substrates
that showed high feed preference were selected for phytochemical
analysis. The plants whose crude extract was obtained were Grevillea
robusta, Bamboo, Eucalyptus, Cypress, Maize and Sugarcane. This study
has revealed that crushed feed substrates had a high level of feed
preference by termites p<0.05. The mixture of all the feed
substrates also showed high termite preference and a mean and SE of
676.500±41.7a. Phytochemical analysis of the crude plant extracts
revealed that Eucalyptus had the highest number of phytochemicals
present 9 out of 12. The identified phytochemicals were Saponins,
Tannins, Alkaloids, Resins, Cardiac Glycosides, carbohydrates, phenols
and flavones.
The efficient conversion of H2S into mercaptan alcohols mediated in protic ionic liquids under mild condition
Authors: Xiong Wenjie , Shi Mingzhen , Zhang Xiaomin , Tu Zhuoheng , Hu Xingbang , Wu Youting
Published: January 2024

The resource utilization of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an important and
promising topic in energy chemical engineering. The previous products
developed in our group through H2S conversion are sulfur or mercaptan
acids. Alternative way to convert H2S is still desirable. Herein, we
developed a green and mild method to convert H2S into mercaptan alcohols
by the addition reaction with epoxide mediated in tertiary
amine-functionalized protic ionic liquids (PILs). Reaction kinetics,
substrate scope, and regeneration experiment have all been explored.
Almost quantitative conversion of substrates was realized with catalytic
loading of PILs at 30 C. Water extraction was used to recycle the
catalysts from the reaction system. It is believed that the excellent
results, together with its operational simplicity and the ability to
successively reuse the catalyst, make this new methodology
environmentally benign and cost-effective. The generality of the H2S
resource methodology gives it potential for application on an industrial
scale.
Are Strokes mostly genetically based or acquired? Stenosis vs Hypoplasia of vertebral artery anomalous as the leading cause of Stroke (Anatomical Study of VA Anomalies in neck three-dimensional computed tomography angiography)
Authors: Mohammadi Farzaneh , Azany Alireza , Soleimantabar Hussein , Mohamadi Fatemeh , Sabouri Sofia
Published: January 2024

A thorough understanding of the vertebral artery (VA) variations and
course of the artery and its related branches could significantly
enhance the efficacy and safety of interventions involving the neck and
spine. Here, we aimed to investigate the incidence of various VA
variations in individuals presenting with signs and symptoms of stroke
with our neurology team. In this cross-sectional study, all patients
referred to our specialized medical imaging center and underwent neck
CT-angiography (CTA) were enrolled in this study for two years from
September 2019 onward. Patients’ information forms were obtained to
collect demographic data. An experienced board-certified radiologist
evaluated the CTA images, recording the characteristics of VA, regarding
dominance and any possible anomalies. These included anomalous origin,
anomalous route, anomalous branching, stenosis, hypoplasia, atresia,
thrombosis, and dissection. A total of 125 patients (53.6% females;
mean age, 60.7 (11-87)) were included. In the case of VA dominance,
66.4% of cases were co-dominant while 16.0% were right, and 12.8%
were left dominant. Overall, males had more VA anomalies than females,
24.8% and 17.6%, respectively (in general, 42.4% of all participants)
(p = 0.020). Among patients, 4.0% (n = 5) had an anomalous origin and
anomalous branching was reported in 5 patients (4.0%). Among the
variations, significant stenosis (18.4%) and hypoplasia (17.6%) were
the most prevalent anomalies with the earliest one having the higher
rate. While anomalous branching was reported in 5 patients (4.0%). VA
variations are relatively common and should be addressed during
procedures involving the neck region.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Sleep Quality in Healthcare Workers in Turkey
Authors: Erdoğan Ayşegül , Tuncel Deniz , Öksüz Ali Nuri , Şahin Ahmet Rıza , Kocyigit Burhan Fatih
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study is to evaluate the sleep behaviors of healthcare
professionals working in secondary and tertiary hospitals in a large
population in Turkey and to show how sleep quality is affected during
the pandemic process by using the easily applicable Jenkins sleep scale
(JSS). Methods The population of this cross-sectional descriptive study
consists of two pandemic hospitals (2nd level state hospital and 3rd
level university hospital) determined in Kahramanmaraş province. Data
were collected between 03.08.2020 and 30.09.2020 with responses to
online survey questions. The security of the data was assigned to
SurveyMonkey enterprise. In our questionnaire, we asked subjective sleep
quality (poor, moderate, high), sleep time (<24:00 and
≥24:00), time to fall asleep (minutes), total sleep time (hours), and
medication use (sleeping pills). We also used Jenkins Sleep Scale
Turkish version (JSS-TR) to assess sleep quality and the Epworth
sleepiness scale (ESS) for increased daytime sleepiness. Results
Healthcare workers who participated in our survey reported that they
started to go to bed later, fell asleep later (mean: 41.75±35.35
minutes), their total sleep time (mean: 6.67±1.88 hours) was shortened,
and they needed medication to sleep more (%5.7) after the COVID-19
pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, bedtime behavior after 24:00
decreased from 80.1% to 43.9% of those who previously went to bed
before 24:00. For those who went to bed after 24:00 before, it increased
from 19.9% to 56.1%.In addition, sleep quality as assessed by
subjective and JSS significantly deteriorated after the COVID-19
pandemic. Excessive daytime sleepiness increased. Those with
ESS>10 before COVID-19 were 3.9%, post- COVID-19
ESS>10 14.1% (p<0.001). Conclusion The COVID-19
pandemic has significantly adversely affected the sleep behavior and
sleep quality of healthcare professionals. The JSS is an easily
applicable scale for assessing sleep quality in large population
studies.
Comparing adherence of continuous and automatic positive airway pressure (CPAP and APAP) in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) children
Authors: Tovichien Prakarn , Kulbun Aunya , Udomittipong Kanokporn
Published: January 2024

Objectives: The treatment outcomes of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea
(OSA) are affected by positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy adherence,
which may be affected by the type of machine used. Continuous PAP (CPAP)
machines deliver a continuous and fixed air pressure level, whereas
automatic PAP (APAP) machines automatically adjust the pressure to meet
changing needs during sleep. The adherence, tolerance and consistency of
OSA-children’s use of CPAP and APAP machines were compared. Study
design: One-year, observational cohort study Methods: Twenty-seven OSA
children were enrolled. Fourteen (52%) used CPAP, and 13 (48%) used
APAP. The adherence, tolerance, and consistency of the PAP usage by the
2 groups were compared. Results: Overall, 11 of the 27 children (41%)
showed good PAP adherence. The CPAP patients averaged 4.9 hours of
machine usage on the days used, for 60% of days, with 6 of 14 (43%)
demonstrating good adherence. In comparison, the APAP patients averaged
3.2 hours for 55% of days, with 5 of 13 (38%) exhibiting good
adherence. The 2 groups showed no differences in their adherence,
tolerance, or consistency of machine usage (P values, 0.609, 0.720, and
0.816, respectively). Although the adherence of both groups improved in
the second six months, it was without statistical significance (P
values, 0.400 and 0.724). Age, sex, baseline apnea-hypopnea index,
comorbidities, prescribed period, machine type, mask type, and caregiver
education-level were not risk factors for poor PAP adherence.
Conclusions: No differences in the adherence, tolerance, or consistency
of the children’s use of CPAP and APAP were revealed.
Multiple cell wall chemical components drive the decomposition of ectomycorrhizal necromass over time
Authors: Mancinelli Riccardo , Bodegom Peter van , Lankhorst Jan , Soudzilovskaia Nadia
Published: January 2024

The extramatrical mycelium of ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) is an
important source of soil carbon. While the importance of recalcitrant
compounds in the fungal cell wall has been reported earlier, the
contribution of abundant and more labile components, like glucans, and
the role of their temporal dynamics during decomposition remains
unknown. We examined how the decomposition of EMF mycelium is related to
the dynamics of 3 main fungal cell wall components; chitin, melanin, and
glucans. Across six EMF species, the initial concentrations of the three
components were not a good predictor of necromass loss after 6 weeks.
However, the dynamics of chitin concentration during the decomposition
process contributed to the weekly necromass degradation, with trends of
chitin loss dynamics being dissimilar across the fungal species. In
contrast, the dynamics of loss of melanin and glucans was not related to
the weekly necromass loss. Given similar total necromass loss across
species, we suggest that glucans and chitin are not discriminated by
decomposers. This mechanism compensates for the interspecific difference
in their initial concentration. Our results indicate that fungal
necromass decomposition does not behave similarly to plant litter, while
it is critical to soil carbon dynamics.
Snap in Motion Along Plane and Space Curves
Authors: El-Sayied Hoda , Tawfiq Abdelrhman , Elsharkawy Ayman
Published: January 2024

The rate of change of jerk or the second derivative of acceleration with
respect to time has been called snap or jounce. Snap is an important
topic that has many applications in mechanics, acoustics and is used to
explain the universe’s different phenomena. The main purpose of this
paper is to study the snap vector in planar and space motion. For the
planar motion, the snap vector is resolved into tangential-normal and
radial-transverse components. The oscillation of a simple pendulum and
central force proportional to distance are chosen as models for the
plane motion to show the several geometric properties of the snap
vector. Furthermore, we consider a particle moving in the
three-dimensional Euclidean space and resolve its snap vector along the
tangential direction, the radial direction in the osculating plane, and
the other radial direction in the rectifying plane, respectively. The
motion of an electron under a constant magnetic field and the motion of
a particle along a logarithmic spiral curve are chosen as models for the
three-dimensional motion to show the several geometric properties of the
snap vector.
Determining Impacted Status of Families with a Child Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus of This Disease and Influencing Factors
Authors: Karahan Seher , Ağadayı Ezgi , Çelik Nurullah
Published: January 2024

Objective This study aimed to determine the impacted status of families
with a child diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes Mellitus of this disease and
the influencing factors using the Diabetes Family Impact Scale (DFIS).
Material and Methods The population of our study, which is a descriptive
cross-sectional type, consists of the parents of 289 school-aged
children diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and followed for
at least one year in the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology of Sivas
Cumhuriyet University Faculty of Medicine (SCUFM). The study
questionnaire was completed in a face-to-face interview with the parents
of 121 of the 289 children who volunteered to participate in the study.
The first 21 questions of the research questionnaire were related to
sociodemographic data, and the following 14 questions, which included
some characteristics of the disease, were related to the Diabetes Family
Impact Scale (DFIS). Results The mean DFIS scale score of the
participants was 14.6±10.8. In our study, the mean DFIS scale score and
the mean scores of the School and Work subscales were significantly
higher in families with a child who had a high mean HbA1c and had been
hospitalized for diabetes in the last 1 year. It was also found that the
DFIS scale score was significantly higher in low-income families than in
high-income families. While there was a negative correlation between the
DFIS scale score and the child’s age with type 1 DM, the mother’s age,
there was a positive correlation between the DFIS scale score and the
HBA1c values. Conclusion Our study is the first known study conducted in
our country using the DFIS scale. Its most important finding is the
increase in DFIS scale score in children with type 1 DM, who have high
HbA1c average and are younger.
Evidence that phenylephrine is not direct-acting α1-agonist on smooth muscle and its effects are due to transporter-mediated release of noradrenaline
Authors: Al-Khrasani Mahmoud , Karádi Dávid , Galambos Anna , Vizi Sylvester
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: Phenylephrine is regarded as a canonical
α1-adrenoceptor selective agonist that acts directly on the receptor.
However, in preclinical experiments and clinical trials, several
unexpected effects of phenylephrine has been observed that could not be
easily explained by acting on α1- but instead seemed to be mediated by
α2- and β-adrenoceptors. In our earlier study we have observed that
phenylephrine is able to release noradrenaline. In this study we
compared its effects on NA release and α1-mediated smooth muscle
contractions. Experimental Approach: The isolated vas deferens is one of
the most useful ex vivo preparations for studying sympathetic
neurochemical transmission. Smooth muscle isometric contractions and the
release of [3H]noradrenaline were measured in response to
phenylephrine administration. Key Results: Phenylephrine in a
concentration between 0.3 and 30 µM significantly enhanced the resting
release of [3H]noradrenaline in a [Ca2+]-independent manner.
While the release of NA evoked by phenylephrine was not reduced by
prazosin, both the initial and secondary tonic phases of
phenylephrine-evoked contractions were subjected to
α1-adrenoceptor-mediated inhibition. When NA transporter was attenuated
by nisoxetine, both noradrenaline release and contractions in response
to phenylephrine were inhibited. Conclusions and Implications:
Phenylephrine, as a substrate of noradrenaline transporter reverses its
function and results in an increase of resting, nonvesicular release of
noradrenaline. The fact that its α1-mediated contractile effects on
smooth muscle were attenuated by the inhibition of transporter activity
indicates that its action on smooth muscle is indirect due to NA being
released from the cytoplasm of the sympathetic nerve terminals.
Menstrual Symptom Disorders After COVID-19 in Relation To Anxiety and Long COVID Symptoms
Authors: Akinci Buket , Dayican Damla Korkmaz , Günay Eyüp , Coşar Nilgün , Ötün Hakan , Kılınç Rumeysa , Kurban İnci , Punar Kübra , Karagülle Elif , Nasırlı Ecem , Altıparmak Ezgi , Açıkalın Semiha , Başçi Serhat
Published: January 2024

Aim and objectives: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) can affect the
menstrual cycle and menstrual volume. We aimed to examine the changes in
menstrual symptoms of women who had recovered from COVID-19 and
determine the factors affecting these changes. Methods: A questionnaire,
prepared using Google Forms, was completed online in May 18-31, 2021 by
180 women (26.08±6.62 years) who had recovered from COVID-19. Menstrual
symptoms, menstrual pain severity, fatigue severity and anxiety levels
of the participants were assessed with Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire
(MSQ), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS),
Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS), respectively. Results: Post-COVID-19
individuals’ MSQ total scores and subgroup scores, FSS scores and
menstrual pain showed a statistically significant increase compared to
pre-COVID-19 (p < 0.001 for all). Multiple linear regression
analysis identified age at menarche and change in FSS and VAS scores as
significant contributors to 38.4% of the variance explained in the
significant regression for change in MSQ score (F (3.176) = 38.23, p
< 0.001). Individuals with prolonged fatigue, muscle–joint
pain and dyspnea symptoms showed increased MSQ total scores (p = 0.006,
p = 0.009, p = 0.046 respectively) and negative effects/somatic
complaints subgroup scores (p = 0.004, p = 0.002, p = 0.017
respectively). Also, individuals with prolonged gastrointestinal
symptoms showed increased pain symptoms (p = 0.029) and coping methods
subgroup scores (p = 0.002), while those with prolonged muscle and joint
pain showed increased coping methods (p = 0.022) subgroup scores.
Conclusion: In this study, we observed worsened menstrual symptoms,
fatigue, and menstrual pain severity in women recovered from COVID-19.
In addition, age at menarche and fatigue and menstrual pain scores
differences after COVID-19 were determiners of the changes in menstrual
symptoms. Menstrual symptoms were more severe in women who have
prolonged fatigue, dyspnea, muscle–joint pain, and gastrointestinal
symptoms.
Nine cases of recurrence and metastasis of retinoblastoma with stable primary tumors
Authors: Li Nan , Huang Dongsheng , Wang Zhuo , Zhang Yi , Zhang weiling , Shi Ji-Tong , Ma Jian-Min , zhou yan , Liu Ting-Ting
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment, and
outcomes of metastatic and recurrent retinoblastoma in patients with
stable primary tumors. Methods: Clinical data were reviewed for nine
patients (two boys and seven girls; median age, 23 months) with stable
primary tumors who exhibited metastatic and recurrent retinoblastoma.
All patients were treated in the Pediatrics Department of our hospital
in the past 5 years. The clinical characteristics, treatment methods,
and patient prognoses were recorded. Results: Of the nine patients,
three had binocular disease and six had monocular disease (n=12 eyes in
this study). The median interval between the end of initial treatment
and onset of recurrence was 12 months (range, 3–96 months). Of the nine
patients, primary tumors were proved to be stable, seven had bone
metastasis, five had lymph node metastasis, two had parotid gland
involvement, and three had bone marrow infiltration. At the end of the
study period, one patient was lost to follow-up, one patient died, seven
patients were alive and three of them were in complete remission and
survived disease-free until the end of follow-up. In December 2020, the
median overall survival after onset was 32.0 months (range, 18–155
months); the median overall survival after recurrence was 18.0 months
(range, 5–34 months). Conclusions: Recurrent and metastatic
retinoblastomas are uncommon and easily misdiagnosed at an early stage
in patients with stable primary tumors. These cancers can be effectively
treated using systemic intravenous chemotherapy combined with surgery,
radiotherapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Early changes in airway obstruction in infants with Robin Sequence
Authors: Dede Belema , Robinson Paul , Castro Chenda , Waters Karen
Published: January 2024

Introduction There is limited data available that describe the pattern
of change in severity of airway obstruction and treatment requirements
of infants with Robin sequence (RS). Methods We undertook retrospective
review of 3 infants with RS and severe OSA who were treated with CPAP in
early infancy. All were managed at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead.
Interval CPAP pressure requirements, sleep screening studies and PSG
data were reviewed and obstructive apnoea-hypopnea index (OAHI), oxygen
desaturation index (ODI), along with percentage of time <90%
oxygen saturation were obtained. Results: For two patients, an early
increase in CPAP pressure was observed with peak pressure reached at 5
weeks and 7 weeks, respectively, followed by reduction of pressure
requirements and cessation of therapy at age 39 weeks for Patient 1 &
74 weeks for Patient 2. By way of contrast, the clinical course of a 3rd
patient included jaw distraction at 17 weeks age, time off CPAP, a
requirement to recommence CPAP at 21 weeks, and trials of other therapy,
but treatment was eventually ceased at 75 weeks. Apnoea indices on PSG
did not reflect the CPAP pressure requirements for any of the infants.
Conclusions: Our data suggests a trend toward early increases in CPAP
pressure requirements in typical infants with RS, before a decrease and
cessation later in infancy. The rate at which this occurs may reflect
the underlying severity of obstruction. Further research could help
confirm this pattern. KEYWORDS Robin sequence, OSA, CPAP,
polysomnography, OAHI, ODI, jaw distraction
Root carbon resources determine survival and growth of young trees under long drought in combination with fertilization
Authors: Yang Yue , Ouyang Shengnan , Gessler Arthur , Wang Xiaoyu , Na Risu , He Hong S. , Wu Zhengfang , Li Mai-He
Published: January 2024

Current increases in not only the intensity and frequency but also the
duration of drought events could affect the growth, physiology, and
mortality of trees. We experimentally studied the effects of drought
duration in combination with fertilization on leaf water potential, gas
exchange, growth, tissue levels of non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs),
tissue NSC consumption over winter, and recovery after drought release
in oak (Quercus petraea) and beech (Fagus sylvatica) saplings. Long
drought duration (> 1 month) decreased leaf water
potential, photosynthesis, and NSC concentrations in both oak and beech
saplings. Nitrogen fertilization did not mitigate the negative drought
effects on both species. The photosynthesis and relative height
increment recovered in the following rewetting year. Height growth in
the rewetting year was significantly positively correlated with both
pre- and post-winter root NSC levels. Root carbon reserve is critical
for tree growth and survival under long-lasting drought. Our results
indicate that beech is more sensitive to drought and fertilization than
oak. The present study, in a physiological perspective, experimentally
confirmed the view of Ellenberg (2009) that the European beech, compared
to oak, may be more strongly affected by future environmental changes.
Talaromyces marneffei infection associated with bronchiolitis obliterans in an HIV-negative child: a case report
Authors: Lin Lin , Lu Gen , Zhang Dongwei , Fan Huifeng
Published: January 2024

Talaromyces marneffei (T. marneffei) is an opportunistic pathogen that
infects immunodeficient and immunocompromised patients. We presented a
pediatric patient with a diagnosis of T. marneffei infection who were
followed up in the Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center. The
child was a 5-year-old girl with persistent coughed and gasped for two
months, and she was confirmed with T. marneffei infection by
bronchoalveolar lavage fluid(BALF) culture and high-throughput
sequencing technology. Human immunodeficiency viru(HIV) was negative
according to a serum-specific antibody test. She was treated with
amphotericin B and itraconazole as antifungal agents with good clinical
response. At the follow up, the high resolution computed tomography
(HRCT) showed mosaic sign in the whole lung field with a diagnosis of
post-infectious bronchiolitis obliterans (PIBO) as the sequela. She has
a mutated COPA gene with uncertain pathogenic potential by the
whole-exome sequencing. This is the first report of PIBO sequelae from
T. marneffei infection in child with non-HIV infection and she was
identified with a mutation in COPA gene.
Hospital physicians’ and older patients’ agreement with individualised STOPP/START based medication optimisation recommendations in a clinical trial setting
Authors: Huibers C.J.A. (Lianne) , Sallevelt Bastiaan , Heij Jody Op , O'Mahony Denis , Rodondi Nicolas , Dalleur Olivia , Marum Rob van , Egberts Toine , Wilting Ingeborg , Knol Wilma
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate agreement of hospital physicians and older
patients with individualised STOPP/START based medication optimisation
recommendations from a pharmacotherapy team. METHODS: This study was
embedded within a large European, multicentre, cluster randomised
controlled trial examining the effect of a structured medication review
on drug-related hospital admissions in multimorbid (≥3 chronic
conditions) older people (≥70 years) with polypharmacy (≥5 chronic
medications). Data from the Dutch intervention arm of this trial were
used for this study. Medication review was performed jointly by a
physician and pharmacist (i.e. pharmacotherapy team) supported by a
Clinical Decision Support System with integrated STOPP/START criteria.
Individualised STOPP/START based medication optimisation recommendations
were discussed with patients and attending hospital physicians. RESULTS:
139 patients were included, mean (SD) age 78.3 (5.1) years, 47% male
and median (IQR) number of medications at admission 11 (9-14). 371
recommendations were discussed with patients and physicians, overall
agreement was 61.6% for STOPP and 60.7% for START recommendations.
Highest agreement was found for initiation of osteoporosis agents and
discontinuation of proton pump inhibitors (both 74%). Determinants
associated with higher agreement in multivariate analysis were: female
gender (+17.1% [3.7;30.4]), ≥1 falls in the past year (+15.0%
[1.5;28.5]) and eGFR 30-50 ml/min/1.73m2; (+18.0% [2.0;34.0]).
The main reason for disagreement (40%) was patients’ reluctance to
discontinue or initiate medication. CONCLUSION: Better patient and
physician education regarding the benefit/risk balance of
pharmacotherapy, in addition to more precise and up-to-date medical
records to avoid invalid recommendations, will likely result in higher
agreement with future pharmacotherapy optimisation recommendations.
Diabetes Self-management interventions and patients’ quality of life: an Umbrella review
Authors: Dorosti Fatemeh , Alizadeh Mahasti , Vahed Nafiseh
Published: January 2024

Background: Diabetes self-management education is an essential component
of caring for the disease, and evidence shows that it can even reduce
overall mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, no study
was found to compare the effects of these interventions on patients’
quality of life. Therefore, we decided to systematically review the
interventions that have been done to promote self-management of type 2
diabetes and their effect on Quality of life. Methods: Twelve databases
were searched for systematic reviews without date and language
restrictions, the data extracted and the quality of the studies was
assessed using the AMSTAR2 checklist. Quality of life was considered as
the main outcome of the study and the results of the studies were
presented qualitatively. Results: The present study includes the results
of 51 systematic review studies in 16 countries over 20 years, covering
a wide range of self-management interventions and quality-of-life
assessment tools. The highest number of studies was presented in the
form of telemedicine. The most effective interventions on patients’
quality of life were self-management interventions that included the
patient’s social network (family, friends, etc.) and interventions that
provided individual strategies for managing the individual’s illness.
Conclusion: Self-management interventions in diabetes cover a wide
range, and their effects on quality of life are a matter of debate.
Molecular typing of Mycoplasma pneumoniae and its correlation with macrolide resistance in Henan of China
Authors: Guo Pengbo , Wang Yanhong , Liu Lei , Zheng Xuan , Li LIfeng , Lei Zhi , Mei Shiyue , Zhou Chongchen
Published: January 2024

Background/purpose To date, molecular typing studies of Mycoplasma
pneumoniae are limited in Henan. We researched the molecular types of
Mycoplasma pneumoniae in pediatric patients in Henan in 2020. Methods M.
pneumonia was detected by SAT-MP kit. The domain V of their 23S rRNA
were sequenced for detection of macrolide-resistant point mutations.
Molecular typing with multiple locus variable-number tandem repeat
analysis (MLVA) was done for both macrolide-susceptible and macrolide
-resistance M. pneumoniae samples. Results M. pneumoniae was detected in
9.8% (121/1237) respiratory samples in 2020. Among the M.
pneumoniae-positive samples, 96% (116/121) had macrolide-resistant
genotypes, and all of them were A2063G mutation. 105 macrolide-resistant
strains and 4 macrolide-susceptible strains fulfill MLVA typing. MLVA
4-5-7-2 was the most frequent type (60/109, 55%), followed by 3-4-6-2
(49/109, 45%). There was no association between MLVA types and
macrolide resistance (p >0.05). Conclusion The percentage
of macrolide resistance M. pneumoniae was high (96%) in pediatric
patients in 2020 in Henan, and A2063G was the dominant point mutation.
MLVA types was independent to macrolide resistance.
Residual-based a posteriori error estimates for the h-p version of the finite element discretization of the elliptic Robin boundary control problem.
Authors: HOUEDANOU Wilfrid , Gbeya Samuel , NYAGA Lewis , AHOUNOU Bernardin
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we analyzed a priori and a posteriori error estimates for
the h − p version of the finite element discretization of the elliptic
Robin boundary control problem. The conforming $h−p$ finite element
method is used. First, we established the optimality conditions for the
continuous and discrete optimal control problems, respectively. Then, a
priori error estimates of the $h−p$ finite element discretization for
the optimal control problem are derived rigorously. Moreover,
residual-based a posteriori error estimates are established for the
coupled state and control approximations. Such estimators can be used to
construct reliable adaptive methods for optimal control problems.
Gut microbial composition and function variations affect the adaptability and health of wild and captive alpine musk deer
Authors: Jiang Feng , Qin Wen , Song Pengfei , Liu Daoxin , Zhang Jingjie , Wang Dong , Wang Haijing , Liang Chengbo , Gao Hongmei , Zhang Tongzuo
Published: January 2024

Keeping healthy status is the primary condition in endangered captive
breeding of alpine musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster, AMD), and that
captive breeding program is beneficial to the ex-situ conservation and
wild population recovery of musk deer. Therefore, regulating the health
status of captive musk deer is the premise of musk deer resource
utilization. Meanwhile, gut microbiota is essential for host health,
survival and environmental adaptation. However, the changes of feeding
environment and food affected the composition and function of gut
microbiota in musk deer. Here, 16S rRNA was used to reveal the
composition and function variations between wild and captive AMD. Wild
AMD had higher alpha diversity of gut microbiota, with higher relative
abundance of phylum Firmicutes, and dominant genera UCG-005,
Christensenellaceae R7 group, Monoglobus, Ruminococcus, and Roseburia,
which conducive to the wild AMD more effective absorption and
utilization of nutrients, stability of intestinal microecology, and
adaption to complex natural environment. Captive individuals had higher
metabolic functions, with higher relative abundance of phylum
Bacteroidetes, and dominant genera Bacteroides, Rikenellaceae RC9 gut
group, NK4A214 group and Alistipes, which contributed to the metabolic
activities of various nutrients. Furthermore, 11 potential opportunistic
pathogens in captive AMD were higher than those in wild AMD, with higher
enrichment of disease-related functions. Compared with wild populations,
captive musk deer had a higher risk of intestinal diseases. The results
can provide a theoretical basis for healthy breeding of musk deer, and a
guidance for evaluating the health status of wild release and
reintroduction of musk deer.