bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the impacts of occupational exposure to PM and PAH on cardiovascular problems in wastewater treatment plant workers
Authors: Saad-Hussein Amal , Beshir Safia , Shaheen Weam , Saleh Inas A. , Hafez Salwa , Mohammed Atef M.F.
Published: August 2023

Background
Workers in wastewater treatment plant (WWTPs) are at high risk of developing various infections and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
Aims
of the study were estimation of the concentrations of 16 EPA priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and particulate matters (PM) with different sizes in air of WWTP, and prediction of CVDs to evaluate the potential risk of developing CVDs in the WWTP workers due to their occupational exposures, in addition to identification of the CVDs` risky work tasks. Methodology: PM concentrations, and wind rose plots for meteorological data, were monitored for 24 months. Estimation of the individual PAHs in suspended particulate matter samples and identification of sources were done. Cross-sectional study was done on 142 male workers from WWTP. All participants were subjected to occupational and medical questionnaire, electrocardiogram (ECG), and measurement of blood pressure. Serum APO-A, APO-B, APO-E, and Lipoprotein α (Lpα) were estimated for all participants.
Results
The annual mean concentrations of PM (PM1, PM2.5, PM10 and TSP) were lower than Egyptian limit. EPA 16 PAHs were detected in all samples, lower molecular weight PAHs were the most predominant PAHs. The most predominant wind direction was from North-West; as the selected WWPT is placed downwind to the surrounding areas. Fifty percent of the workers were complaining of dyspnea. About 30.9% of the workers were found to be hypertensive; the majority of them were from the operator department. ECG abnormalities were found in 18.3% of the workers mainly among operators (23.95%). Ventricular extra systole was the highest prevalent detected ECG abnormality followed by left ventricular enlargement. APO-B and APO-B/APO-A ratio were significantly higher in operator workers compared to the administrators and laboratory workers. While, APO-E was significantly lower in operator workers compared to the administrators and laboratory workers.
Conclusion
PM2.5 and PM1 and PAH exposure maybe associated with potential risk of developing CVD in the exposed WWTP workers. The main sources of PAHs in the WWTP could be the fuel used for the machines in the operator department, as the treatment process occurs in the WWTP contribute to high concentrations of PM and its PAHs, but the most contributed sources were found to be from the surrounding areas. The use of APO-B or APO-B/APO-A holds a promising biomarkers for evaluating cardiovascular disease risk.
Peptides Rapidly Transport Antibiotic Across the Intact Tympanic Membrane to Treat a Middle Ear Infection
Authors: Kurabi Arwa , Sereno Emily , Ryan Allen
Published: August 2023

The tympanic membrane (TM) forms an impermeable barrier to medical therapies for middle ear (ME) diseases like otitis media. By screening a phage-displayed peptide library, we have previously discovered rare peptides that mediate active transport of cargo across the intact membrane of animals and humans. Since the M13 filamentous bacteriophage on which the peptides are expressed are large (nearly 1 µm in length), this offers the possibility of noninvasively delivering drugs, large drug packages or gene therapy to the ME. To evaluate this possibility, EDC chemistry was employed to covalently attach amoxicillin or neomycin molecules to phage bearing a trans-TM peptide, as a model for large drug packages. Eight hours after application of antibiotic-phage to the TM of infected rats, ME bacterial titers were substantially reduced compared to untreated animals. As a control, antibiotic was linked to wild-type phage, not bearing any peptide, and application to the TM did not affect ME bacteria. The results support the ability of rare peptides to actively deliver pharmacologically relevant amounts of drugs through the intact TM and into the ME. Moreover, since bacteriophage engineered to express peptides are viral vectors, the trans-TM peptides could also transport other viral vectors into the ME.
Anti-CNTN-1 autoimmune nodopathies with dysarthria at onset - a case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Jiajie , Liu Lingchun , Zhu Hongyan , Li Rong , Li Haixia , Gong Xiarong , Fu Hao , Long Jingjing , Meng Qiang
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND: Anti-CNTN-1 autoimmune nodopathies (AN) is a new and rare diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy proposed by the European Society of Neurology in recent years. Clinical manifestations usually include chronic, subacute or rapidly progressive sensory or motor disorders, sensory ataxia, tremor, and cranial nerve involvement (facial paralysis, eye movement limitation, diplopia, etc. However, anti-CNTN-1 autoimmune nodopathies with dysarthria have rarely been reported. We report a rare young case with dysarthria.
Case introduction: This is a case of a 25-year-old male patient with an initial onset of dysarthria and limb tremor. He was initially misdiagnosed withspinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), and the symptoms gradually worsened, including limb weakness, sensory disorders of the limbs, muscle atrophy of the distal lower limbs, and positional dizziness. Neuroelectrophysiological examination showed multiple peripheral nerve damage (motor and sensory damage), and the myelin sheath and axons were involved (mainly the myelin sheath). The blood and cerebrospinal fluid of peripheral neuropathy autoimmune antibody tests indicated that anti-CNTN-1 antibody, the serum GD1b antibody was positive, and a corrected diagnosis of CNTN-1 autoimmune nodopathies. The patient was treated with rituximab, and limb weakness and dysarthria were improved after 3 months of follow-up.
Conclusion: Compared with the previously reported cases of anti-CNTN-1 AN, the cases we describe are young patients with dysarthria and limb tremor, highlighting the possibility of this disease presenting as unconventional peripheral nerve onset. We hope this article will improve clinicians' awareness of this kind of disease and reduce the misdiagnosis rate of this disease to help patients diagnose and treat it in time.
Does El Niño affect MJO-AR connections over the North Pacific and associated North American precipitation?
Authors: Fernandes Laís Gonçalves , Loikith Paul C.
Published: August 2023

This study investigates how the positive phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (EN) influences the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) modulation of cool-season North Pacific atmospheric rivers (ARs) and associated AR-landfall driven precipitation over North America. EN changes the key drivers of MJO-AR connections by shifting MJO-driven convection east of 180° longitude in MJO phases 6–8 and extending the northern Pacific subtropical jet eastward. Under these conditions, the MJO tropical-extratropical teleconnection is triggered east of 180° in MJO phases 7–8, and a persistent cyclonic flow anomaly develops along the United States west coast. Anomalous northeastward integrated water vapor transport (IVT) within the cyclonic flow coupled with the MJO convection over the western (phase 7) and central (phase 8) Pacific increases AR frequency, shifting it to the east over regions that do not show a relationship with EN or MJO alone. Besides enhancing AR activity, EN background conditions increase the number of AR events, their lifetime, and mean intensity from MJO phases 6 through 8, as well as the number of MJO active days, AR initiations, and ARs making landfall over North America in MJO phases 8 − 1. The positive precipitation anomalies and increased frequency of extreme precipitation events associated with landfalling North Pacific ARs related to MJO are also shifted to the east in EN, enhancing and extending rainfall over western North America in MJO phases 6 − 1. Results provide new insight into the drivers of AR activity and associated precipitation along the west coast of North America with implications for improving subseasonal-to-seasonal predictions.
A Multi-view Breast-wise Abnormality Detection for Breast Cancer Screening using Mammography
Authors: Kebede Samuel Rahimeto , Waldamichael Fraol Gelana , Debelee Taye Girma , Aleme Muluberhan , Bedane Wubalem , Mezgebu Bethelhem , Merga Zelalem Chimdesa
Published: August 2023

Breast cancer has the highest incidence rate among women in Ethiopia compared to other types of cancer. Unfortunately, many cases are detected at a stage where a cure is delayed or not possible. To address this issue, mammography-based screening is widely accepted as an effective technique for early detection. However, the interpretation of mammography images requires experienced radiologists in breast imaging, a resource that is limited in Ethiopia. In this research, we have developed a model to assist radiologists in mass screening for breast abnormalities and prioritizing patients. Our approach combines an ensemble of efficient-based classifiers with YOLOv5, a suspicious mass detection method, to identify abnormalities. The inclusion of YOLOv5 detection is crucial in providing explanations for classifier predictions and improving sensitivity, particularly when the classifier fails to detect abnormalities. To further enhance the screening process, we have also incorporated an abnormality detection model. The classifier model achieves an F1-score of 0.87 and a sensitivity of 0.82. With the addition of suspicious mass detection, sensitivity increases to 0.89, albeit at the expense of a slightly lower F1-score of 0.79.
Giant extracranial internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm : A case report
Authors: Zhang Yunwen , Ling Jun , Liu Peng , Qiu Chuanzhen , Liu Ming , Sun Tao , Mo Wei , Ouyang Yian
Published: August 2023

Background : Pseudoaneurysm of the internal carotid artery is a rare and dangerous disease. The normal arterial wall includes three layers: intima, media and adventitia. Pseudoaneurysms are more likely to rupture under the continuous impact of blood due to the lack of three layers of normal structure of the arterial wall. If the pseudoaneurysm is not treated in time when it ruptures, it can easily cause massive hemorrhage and endanger life.
Case presentation : We report a rare case of spontaneous extracranial giant pseudoaneurysm of the internal carotid artery in a middle-aged female. A 48-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital due to “sudden severe pain in the right mandible and neck with swelling for more than one day”. After computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the head and neck, she was diagnosed with a pseudoaneurysm of the C1 segment of the right internal carotid artery. Digital Silhouette Angiography (DSA) showed a large tumor-like dilatation in the extracranial segment of the right internal carotid artery. Because the blood vessels cannot be reconstructed, it is recommended to occlude the blood vessels or ligate the right internal carotid artery by traditional surgery. The family gave up surgical treatment and underwent conservative treatment of right common carotid artery Matas training. The patient recovered well after 1 year of follow-up.
Conclusion：The possibility of self-healing of internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm is very small, and the possibility of rerupture is high. Therefore, patients with confirmed internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm should be treated surgically as soon as possible to prevent the illness from worsening.
A Taxonomically-informed Mass Spectrometry Search Tool for Microbial Metabolomics Data
Authors: Dorrestein Pieter , Zuffa Simone , Schmid Robin , Bauermeister Anelize , Gomes Paulo Wender Portal , Caraballo-Rodriguez Andres , Abiead Yasin El , Aron Allegra , Gentry Emily , Zemlin Jasmine , Meehan Michael , Avalon Nicole , Cichewicz Robert , Buzun Ekaterina , Carrillo-Terrazas Marvic , Hsu Chia-Yun , Oles Renee , Ayala Adriana Vasquez , Zhao Jiaqi , Chu Hiutung , Kuijpers Mirte , Jackrel Sara , Tugizimana Fidele , Nephali Lerato , Dubery Ian , Madala Ntakadzeni , Moreira Eduarda , Costa-Lotufo Leticia , Lopes Norberto , Rezende-Teixeira Paula , Jimenez Paula , Rimal Bipin , Patterson Andrew , Traxler Matthew , Pessotti Rita de Cassia , Alvarado-Villalobos Daniel , Tamayo-Castillo Giselle , Chaverri Priscila , Escudero-Leyva Efrain , Quiros-Guerrero Luis-Manuel , Bory Alexandre , Joubert Juliette , Rutz Adriano , Wolfender Jean-Luc , Allard Pierre-Marie , Sichert Andreas , Pontrelli Sammy , Pullman Benjamin , Bandeira Nuno , Gerwick William , Gindro Katia , Massana-Codina Josep , Wagner Berenike , Forchhammer Karl , Petras Daniel , Aiosa Nicole , Garg Neha , Liebeke Manuel , Bourceau Patric , Kang Kyo Bin , Gadhavi Henna , de Carvalho Luiz Pedro , Santos Mariana Silva dos , Pérez-Lorente Alicia , Molina-Santiago Carlos , Romero Diego , Franke Raimo , Broenstrup Mark , De Leon Arturo Vera Ponce , Pope Phillip , Rosa Sabina La , Barbera Giorgia La , Roager Henrik , Laursen Martin , Hammerle Fabian , Siewert Bianka , Peintner Ursula , Licona-Cassani Cuauhtemoc , Rodriguez-Orduña Lorena , Rampler Evelyn , Hildebrand Felina , Koellensperger Gunda , Schoeny Harald , Hohenwallner Katharina , Panzenboeck Lisa , Gregor Rachel , O'Neill Ellis , Roxborough Eve , Odoi Jane , Bale Nicole , Ding Su , Damsté Jaap S. Sinninghe , Guan Xueli , Cui Jerry , Ju Kou-San , Silva Denise , Silva Fernanda , Silva Gilvan da , Koolen Hector , Grundmann Carlismari , Clement Jason , Mohimani Hosein , Broders Kirk , McPhail Kerry , Ober-Singleton Sidnee , Rath Christopher , McDonald Daniel , Knight Rob , Wang Mingxun
Published: August 2023

MicrobeMASST, a taxonomically-informed mass spectrometry (MS) search tool, tackles limited microbial metabolite annotation in untargeted metabolomics experiments. Leveraging a curated database of >60,000 microbial monocultures, users can search known and unknown MS/MS spectra and link them to their respective microbial producers via MS/MS fragmentation patterns. Identification of microbial-derived metabolites and relative producers, without a priori knowledge, will vastly enhance the understanding of microorganisms' role in ecology and human health.
Fabrication of Fe3O4/SiO2/Curcumin Nanohybrid Composites as New Antifibrotic Agents
Authors: Taufiq Ahmad , Nikmah Ainun , Subadra S.T.U. Intan , Sunaryono Sunaryono , Hidayat Arif , Hidayat Nurul , Susanto Hendra , Yustanti Erlina , Amrillah Tahta
Published: August 2023

Liver fibrosis is one of the main threats to human health. To date, antifibrosis drugs encompass several problems, such as the limited treatment effects, lack of drug targeting, and toxic side effects. To increase the therapeutic efficacy in targeting liver fibrosis, scientists should study the development of nanocarriers and effective therapeutic strategies in drug targeting for the treatment of liver fibrosis. In this study, Fe3O4/SiO2/curcumin (Cur) nanohybrid composites have been successfully synthesized and used as antifibrosis drugs in animal liver cells, which were induced with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). The composition, shape, size, and magnetic properties of the nanocarrier contributed to the successful targeting of antifibrotic agents. Structural studies using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray, and transmission electron microscopy were also carried out. The magnetic properties of the nanocarrier to the sensitivity of the external magnetic field were tested using vibrating sample magnetometry. Furthermore, preclinical tests in the form of antibacterial and antifungal tests were performed. From these characterizations, the Fe3O4/SiO2/Cur nanohybrid composites showed good inhibition of bacterial and fungal growth. To determine the efficacy of Fe3O4/SiO2/Cur nanohybrid composites, we conducted serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase hytests. Notably, the Fe3O4/SiO2/Cur nanohybrid composites significantly reduced serum alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels (p < 0.05). Thus, the Fe3O4/SiO2/Cur nanohybrid composites can reduce CCl4-induced liver injury.
Variations of soil metal content, soil enzyme activity and soil bacterial community in Rhododendron delavayi natural shrub forest at different elevations
Authors: Ming Tang , Li Wang , Jiyi Gong , Malik Kamran , Jie Liu , Xin Kong , Xianlei Chen , Lanlan Chen , Rong Tang , Rong Zheng , Jianfeng Wang , Yin Yi
Published: August 2023

Background Rhododendron delavayi is a natural shrub distributed at different elevations in the karst region of Bijie, China, and has an importance in prevention of land degradation in this region. The soil bacterial community structure of R. delavayi at three elevations (1448 m, 1643 m, 1821 m) was analyzed by high-throughput sequencing, and soil mineral elements and enzymes activities were determined. Results In this study, our results showed that the soil Fe, Mg, Cr, Ni, Cu and Zn content decreased with increase in elevations, the soil K content varied in a V-shape, while the soil Cd and Pb showed an inverted V-shape. In addition, the variation of soil urease and phosphatase activity also showed an inverted V-shape. Invertase activity increased while catalase activity decreased with elevation increase. The Shannon index of soil bacterial community initially increased and then decreased with elevation, and was highest at 1643 m. At 1821 m, Fe was positively correlated with Acidobacteria; Ca, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb were positively correlated with Actinobacteria. Urease and phosphatase significantly affected the soil bacterial community, while elevation affected the diversity of bacterial community by affecting Fe and urease content. The results of Linear discriminant effect size (LEfSe) showed that there were different biomarkers at different elevations. The bacterial co-occurrence network analysis showed that the dominant bacterial communities at different elevations in Baili Rhododendron scenic spot had a complex structure. Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria were the most dominant phyla at 1448 m, 1643 m and 1821 m. Mantel test and correlation analysis showed that Fe and urease significantly affected bacterial OUT at 1448m. Moreover, Cr, Ni and catalase had a negative impact on TM7 at 1448m but there was no significant correlation between soil variables and bacteria communities on bacterial OUT at 1643m and 1821m. Conclusion Elevation significantly influenced structure of bacterial communities by affecting the content of soil mineral elements and the level of enzyme activity.
Understanding multimodal mobility strategies of micromobility users in urban environments: Insights from Barcelona
Authors: Roig-Costa Oriol , Marquet Oriol , Arranz-López Aldo , Miralles-Guasch Carme , Acker Veronique Van
Published: August 2023

Micromobility, which includes bicycle-sharing systems, e-scooters, and moped-style scooters, has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional transport modes in urban environments, thus expanding the number of transportation options available to urban travellers. Previous research has primarily relied on trip-based data to explore the multimodal character of micromobility. However, existing evidence has failed to understand the ways in which urban travellers have reshaped their mobility strategies as a consequence of the introduction of micromobility. Using a travel survey (N = 902) set in Barcelona, Spain, cluster techniques are used to group micromobility users according to their frequency of use of three different micromobility modes (bicycle-sharing systems, private e-scooter, and moped-style scooter-sharing services). Then, logistic binomial regressions were used, in order to explore each cluster’s usage of traditional modes of transport, along with all potential weekly combinations between modes. Results show that most micromobility users rely on a single type of transport mode on a weekly basis. The models further indicate that e-scooter, shared bicycle, and moped-style scooter users develop different weekly mobility combination strategies. While personal micromobility options (private e-scooter) are associated with monomodal tendencies, sharing services (bicycle sharing and moped-style scooter sharing) encourage multimodal behaviours. These findings contribute to the limited knowledge concerning the role of some micromobility alternatives in creating more rational and less habit-dependent travel behaviour choices.
Mathematical Model of Typhoid Disease Using Standard and Non-standard Finite Difference Schemes
Authors: Irfan Muhammad , Ghour Samer Al , M Kaviyarasu , Mehmood Arif , Saeed Maha Mohammed , Naeem Muhammad , Gul Saeed
Published: August 2023

In the current paper, typhoid disease is mathematically simulated, and its positivity and boundedness are also discussed. The fundamental reproduction number \({R}_{0}\), which is significant in epidemiology, is sorted out. The Lyapunov function for global stability and the Routh-Hurwitz criterion for local stability of the intended NSFD scheme are studied for disease-free and endemic equilibrium points, respectively. The standard finite difference (SFD) scheme and non-standard finite difference (NSFD) scheme are used to approximate the solution of the PSEIT epidemic model.
A Postmortem Case Control Study of Asbestos Burden in Lungs of Malignant Mesothelioma Cases
Authors: Visonà Silvia Damiana , Bertoglio Barbara , Favaron Cristina , Capella Silvana , Belluso Elena , Colosio Claudio , Villani Simona , Ivic-Pavlicic Tara , Taioli Emanuela
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND
Asbestos lung content is regarded as the most reliable tool for causal attribution of malignant mesothelioma (MM) to previous asbestos exposures. However, there is a lack of studies on asbestos burden in lungs of MM patients in comparison with healthy individuals. This study aims to provide such a comparison, investigating, as well, differences in asbestos lung burden with sex and time trends.
METHODS
Asbestos lung content has been assessed on formalin-fixed lung fragments using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersion spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) on individuals deceased from MM (cases) and healthy subjects without any lung disease who died from violent causes (controls) between 2005 and 2023.
RESULTS
Asbestos and asbestos bodies (ABs) were found, respectively, in 73.7% and 43.2% of cases and in 28% and 22% of controls; in MM cases the most represented asbestos types were crocidolite and amosite, whereas in controls it was tremolite-actinolite asbestos. The concentration of both asbestos fibers and ABs was statistically significantly higher in MM cases compared to controls. The mean asbestos fibers width was also significantly higher in cases than controls. Males and females with MM showed similar asbestos and ABs concentrations, but females had higher concentrations of chrysotile, and significantly lower fibers width compared to males. Time trends show that MM lung asbestos concentrations decreased starting in 2011.
DISCUSSION
The results suggest a correlation between asbestos burden in lungs and MM risk. The different concentration of chrysotile, as well as the different width of asbestos fibers in MM males and females might reflect a sex difference in response of the lung microenvironment to inhaled asbestos. Finally, this study provides the first pathological evidence of the effect of the ban of asbestos use, demonstrating a significant decrease of asbestos lung content after 2011.
Isolated unilateral oculomotor palsy caused by pure midbrain infarction: a case report
Authors: Chen Zhu-Ling , Zhu Shi-Guo , Liu Rong-Pei , Ma Lu-Lu , Cui Jian , Zeng Guo-Ling , Zhang Xiong , Wang Jian-Yong , Huang Shi-Shi
Published: August 2023

Background: Multiple etiologies may cause oculomotor nerve palsies. Identification of different etiologies is very important for subsequent treatment. Midbrain infarction is a rare cause of oculomotor nerve palsy.
Case presentation: We herein present a case of isolated unilateral oculomotor paresis caused by pure midbrain infarction. Her pupillary sphincter and inferior rectus muscles were selectively spared. The symptoms were completely relieved after two months of antiplatelet therapy.
Conclusion:We proposed that fibers from Edinger-Westphal nucleus and inferior rectus nucleus do not course through the paramedian area of the midbrain. Our report adds to the understanding of fascicles arrangement in the midbrain.
Environmental migration? A Systematic review and Meta-analysis of the literature
Authors: Cipollina Maria , De Benedictis Luca , Scibè Elisa
Published: August 2023

This article provides a comprehensive quantitative overview of the literature on the relationship between environmental changes and human migration. It begins with a systematic approach to bibliographic research and offers a bibliometric analysis of the empirical contributions. Specifically, we map the literature and conduct systematic research using main bibliographic databases, reviews, and bibliometric analysis of all resulting papers. By constructing a citation-based network, we identify four separate clusters of papers grouped according to certain characteristics of the analysis and resulting outcomes. Finally, we apply a meta-analysis to a sample of 96 published and unpublished studies between 2003 and 2020, providing 3,904 point estimates of the effect of slow-onset events and 2,065 point estimates of the effect of fast-onset events.
Overall, the meta-analytic average effect on migration is small for both slow- and rapid-onset events; however, it is positive and significant. Accounting for the clustering of the literature, which highlights how specific common features of the collected studies influence the magnitude of the estimated effect, reveals a significant heterogeneity among the four clusters of papers. This heterogeneity gives rise to new evidence on the formation of club-like convergence of literature outcomes.
JEL Codes: C83, F22, J61, Q51, Q54, Q56.
Corporate tax burden, financing constraints and total factor productivity of enterprises: evidence from A-share listed companies in China
Authors: Li Sumin
Published: August 2023

tax reduction and fee reduction are important measures for China to promote steady economic development and achieve high-quality development. From the perspective of financing constraints, this study uses the data of A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen from 2008 to 2019 to analyze the impact of reducing tax burden on total factor productivity of enterprises and its internal financing mechanism under the background of economic downturn. The results show that, on the whole, reducing taxes and fees and reducing the tax burden of enterprises are conducive to improving the total factor productivity of enterprises; Further, the research mechanism shows that reducing the tax burden can reduce financing constraints, increase enterprise cash flow, stimulate enterprise innovation ability, and improve enterprise total factor productivity; The analysis of heterogeneous enterprises shows that the impact of tax reduction and fee reduction on total factor productivity of enterprises is stronger in non state-owned enterprises, enterprises with higher marketization, small and medium-sized enterprises and growing enterprises.
Molecular detection, phylogenetic analysis and genetic diversity of recently isolated foot- and-mouth disease virus serotype A in Egypt
Authors: El-Ansary Ramy E. , Kasem Samy , El-Tabakh Mohamed A. M. , Badr Yassien , Mohamed Imad A. , Abdel-Moneim Ahmed S.
Published: August 2023

Foot-and-mouth Disease (FMD) is a serious contagious viral disease principally affecting all hoof cloven animals. Serotypes A, O and SAT 2 of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) are circulating in Egypt vaccination. The present study aimed to detect and molecularly characterize FMDV strains circulating in the Northern Egypt during the last 2022 epidemic. RNA was extracted from the epithelial specimens, vesicular fluid and heparinized blood samples from affected animals. Samples were screened using real time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) that targets RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene. Positive samples were subjected to individual serotype specific amplification using different set of primers for VP1 of O, A, C and SAT 2 serotypes. Direct sequencing of the positive samples was conducted on positive samples. Biochemical parameters were also screened at time of sampling and at 4, 15 and 30 days. Real time RT-PCR showed positive samples from epithelia and vesicular fluid samples but not the blood of infected animals. Seven out of 16 samples were found positive to FMDV serotype A. Six out of the seven positive samples were classified as serotype A-African topotype-G-IV. Decreases in urea and blood urea nitrogen were detected in infected animals. It was concluded that continuous monitoring of the evolution of circulating the FMDV strains is needed to evaluate and help in vaccine strains selection for controlling FMDV in Egypt.
The pan-cancer analysis uncovers the prognostic and immunotherapeutic significance of CD19 as an immune marker in tumor
Authors: Wei Lanyi , Meng Jingjing , Xiang Danfeng , Yang Quanjun , Zhou Yangyun , Xu Lingyan , Chen Junjun , Han Yonglong
Published: August 2023

The specific cytotoxic effects of anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy have led to impressive outcomes in individuals previously treated for B-cell malignancies. However, the specific biological role of CD19(+) target cells, which exert antitumor immunity against some solid tumors, remains to be elucidated. We collected information regarding the level of CD19 mRNA and protein expression from various databases including The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER), GTEx, and Human Protein Atlas (HPA) for both tumor and normal samples. To evaluate the patients' prognosis according to CD19 expression, a Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis and univariate Cox regression were performed. Furthermore, using the Estimation of Stromal and Immune Cells in Malignant Tumor Tissues Using the Expression Data (ESTIMATE) algorithm, we estimated the ratio of immune cells infiltrating malignant tumor tissues. Afterward, the GSCALite repository was employed to evaluate the vulnerability of tumors expressing CD19 to drugs used in chemotherapy. To validate the results in clinical samples of certain cancer types, immunohistochemistry was then performed. Most tumor types exhibited CD19 expression differently, apart from colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). The early diagnostic value of CD19 has been demonstrated in 9 different tumor types, and the overexpression of CD19 has the potential to extend the survival duration of patients. Multiple tumors showed a positive correlation between CD19 expression and tumor mutation burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), ESTIMATE score, immunoscore, and stromal score. Furthermore, a direct association was discovered between the expression of CD19 and the infiltration of immune cells, particularly in cases of breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA). Moreover, CD19 is highly sensitive to a variety of chemotherapy drugs. The study reveals the potential of CD19 as both a predictive biomarker and a target for different cancer immunotherapies.
Effects of silent pituitary adenomas on pregnancy
Authors: Aksu Özge Baş , Demir Özgür , Canpolat Asena Gökçay , Çorapçıoğlu Demet
Published: August 2023

Purpose: Silent pituitary adenomas (SPAs) are a group of hormonally inactive adenomas. The patients do not show clinical signs and symptoms of excess hormones; however, fertility is usually affected in women. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of SPAs on pregnancy.
Methods: Thirty patients with SPAs aged between 18 and 65 years without hormone deficiency or excess were included in the study. We retrospectively evaluated anterior pituitary hormone levels, follow-up periods, pituitary imaging findings, symptoms associated with adenoma size increase during pregnancy, adverse pregnancy outcomes, , delivery procedures, pregnancy week at delivery, birth weight, and lactation duration.
Results: The mean age of the patients was 41.26 ± 9.06 years, and the mean duration after diagnosis was 92.8 months. Of the 30 patients, 7 had macroadenomas, and 23 had microadenomas. The 30 patients had a history of 92 pregnancies, including 12 elective abortions. The incidence of nausea-vomiting and visual impairment during pregnancy were more common in the macroadenoma group (p = 0.016 and p = 0.042, respectively). Spontaneous pregnancy rates were found to be high, and no negative effects of SPAs on fertility were observed. The patients with SPAs did not have an increased risk of pregnancy-related complications compared to the general population, and there were no obvious negative effects on fetal development or lactation. SPAs were not associated with an increased cesarean section rate.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that SPAs have no negative effects on pregnancy outcomes, fetal development, or lactation.
The burden of persistent symptoms after COVID-19 (long COVID): A Meta-analysis of controlled studies in children and adults
Authors: Azzam Ahmed , Khaled Heba , Refaey Neveen , Mohsen Shorouk , El-Emam Ola Ali , Dawood Nada , Ahmed Hebatalla A. , Soliman Omar A. , Mostafa Sana , Ramadan Heba , Mosa Maha , Elmowafy Amora Omar Ibrahim , Rizk Shimaa Mohamed Abdou , Zaki Ahmed , Hussien Mostafa , Ahmed Ameer , Ezzat Ahmad Ashraf , Hassan Fatma E.
Published: August 2023

Background
Previous meta-analyses estimating the prevalence of the post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) were confounded by the lack of negative control groups. This may result in an overestimation of the prevalence of those experiencing PCC, as these symptoms are non-specific and common in the general population. In this study, we aimed to compare the burden of persistent symptoms among COVID-19 survivors relative to COVID-19-negative controls.
Methods
A systematic literature search was conducted using the following databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus) until July 2023 for comparative studies that examined the prevalence of persistent symptoms in COVID-19 survivors. Given that many of the symptoms among COVID-19 survivors overlap with post-hospitalization syndrome and post-intensive care syndrome, we included studies that compare the prevalence of persistent symptoms in hospitalized COVID-19 patients relative to non-COVID-19 hospitalized patients and in non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients relative to healthy controls that reported outcomes after at least three months since infection. The results of the meta-analysis were reported as odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval based on the random effects model.
Results
Twenty articles were included in this study. Our analysis of symptomatology in non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients compared to negative controls revealed that the majority of symptoms examined were not related to COVID-19 infection and appeared equally prevalent in both cohorts. However, non-COVID-19 hospitalized patients had higher odds of occurrence of certain symptoms like anosmia, ageusia, fatigue, dyspnea, and brain fog (P < 0.05). Particularly, anosmia and ageusia showed substantially elevated odds relative to the negative control group at 11.27 and 9.76, respectively, P < 0.05. In contrast, analysis of hospitalized COVID-19 patients compared to those hospitalized for other indications did not demonstrate significantly higher odds for the tested symptoms.
Conclusions
The persistent symptoms in COVID-19 survivors may result from hospitalization for causes unrelated to COVID-19 and are commonly reported among the general population. Although certain symptoms exhibited higher odds in non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients relative to controls, these symptoms are common post-viral illnesses. Therefore, the persistent symptoms after COVID-19 may not be unique to SARS-CoV-2. Future studies including well-matched control groups when investigating persistent symptoms in COVID-19 survivors are warranted to draw a firm conclusion.
A stable class of finite difference scheme for nonlocal partial differential equation
Authors: Patel Vijay Kumar
Published: August 2023

In this article, a numerical study is introduced for solving the fractional partial differential equation (FPDE) arising from electromagnetic waves in dielectric media (EMWDM) by using an efficient class of finite difference methods. The proposed numerical finite difference scheme is based on the Hermite formula. The Caputo’s fractional derivatives in time are discretized by a finite difference scheme of order O(k (3−α)) & O(k (3−β)), 1 < β < α < 2. The stability and the convergence analysis of the proposed methods are given by a procedure similar to the standard von Neumann stability analysis under mild conditions. Also for FPDE, accuracy of order O k (3−α) + k (3−β) + h 4 is investigated. Finally, several numerical experiments with different fractional-order derivatives are provided and compared with the exact solutions to illustrate the accuracy and efficiency of the scheme. A comparative numerical study is also done to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed scheme.
Evaluating the Structural and External Validity of a Self-Report Measure of Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome in a Clinical Sample of Adults in Turkey
Authors: Yucens Bengu , Basay Omer , Buber Ahmet , Tumkaya Selim , Basay Burge Kabukcu , Erdem Busra , Becker Stephen P , Burns Leonard G
Published: August 2023

The internal (structural) and external validity of a self-report measure of cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS, formerly sluggish cognitive tempo) relative to a self-report measure of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder-inattention (ADHD-IN) was evaluated with adults from university outpatient psychiatric clinics in Turkey. A total of 274 outpatients (75.9% women; Mage = 31.06; SDage = 10.84; 50.4% anxiety disorders; 41.6% depressive disorders; 2.9% ADHD; 1.5% sleep disorders; 0.7% eating disorders; 2.9% no mental disorder) completed self-report measures of CDS, ADHD-IN, ADHD-hyperactivity/impulsivity (HI), sleep problems, depression, and stress. All 15 CDS symptoms on the Adult Concentration Inventory showed convergent (moderate to high loadings on the CDS factor) and discriminant (loading close to zero on the ADHD-IN factor) validity. CDS also showed stronger first-order and unique associations than ADHD-IN with sleep problems, depression, anxiety, and stress, whereas ADHD-IN showed stronger first-order and unique associations than CDS with ADHD-HI. This is the first study to provide support for the scores from this 15 symptom self-report measure of CDS in a clinical sample of adults, with findings consistent with previous studies examining parent and teacher rating scale measures with the same 15 CDS symptoms. These findings provide additional support for usefulness of these 15 CDS symptoms to study CDS across various cultures.
Rapid weather changes are associated with daily hospital visitors for atrial fibrillation accompanied by abnormal ECG repolarization: A case-crossover study
Authors: Wu Shanmei , Guo Jingyi , Chen Xin , Wang Jie , Zhao Gang , Ma Shixin , Hao Tianzheng , Tan Jianguo , Li Yongguang
Published: August 2023

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is highly prevalent in the population, yet the factors contributing to AF events in susceptible individuals remain partially understood. The potential relationship between meteorological factors and AF, particularly with abnormal electrocardiograph (ECG) repolarization, has not been adequately studied. This case-crossover study aims to investigate the association between meteorological factors and daily hospital visits for AFwith abnormal ECG repolarization in Shanghai, China.
Methods: The study cohort comprised 10,325 patients with ECG-confirmed AF who sought treatment at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital between 2015 and 2018. Meteorological and air pollutant concentration data were matched with the patient records. Using a case-crossover design, we analyzed the association between meteorological factors and the daily count of hospital visitors for AF with abnormal ECG repolarization at our AF center. Lag analysis models were applied to examine the temporal relationship between meteorological factors and AF events.
Results: The analysis revealed statistically significant associations between AF occurrence and specific meteorological factors. AF events were significantly associated with average atmospheric pressure (lag0d,OR0.9901,95%CI0.9825~0.9977,P<0.05), average temperature (lag1d,OR0.9890,95%CI0.9789~0.9992,P<0.05), daily pressure range (lag7d,OR1.0195,95%CI1.0079~1.0312,P<0.01), and daily temperature range (lag5d,OR1.0208,95%CI1.0087~1.0331,P<0.01). Moreover, a significant correlation was observed between daily pressure range and daily temperature range with AF patients, particularly those with abnormal ECG repolarization, as evident in the case-crossover analysis.
Conclusion:This study highlights a significant correlation between meteorological factors and daily hospital visits for AF in Shanghai, China. Additionally, AF patients with abnormal ECG repolarization were found to be more vulnerable to rapid daily changes in pressure and temperature compared to AF patients without such repolarization abnormalities.
Non-destructive investigation of a late panel painting by Lucas Cranach the Elder
Authors: Cortea Ioana Maria , Ratoiu Lucian , Rădvan Roxana
Published: August 2023

This work presents the results of a complementary diagnostic investigation carried out on a late wooden panel painting attributed to world-famous Renaissance painter Lucas Cra-nach the Elder. The aim of this study was to characterize the pigments, ground layers and painting technique used in Cranach's painting Madonna and Child by means of an integrated non-destruc-tive approach that included Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI), portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Combined XRF and FTIR data allowed identi-fication of a vibrant color palette, with lead white, verdigris, smalt, vermilion, red earth, yellow ochre, and a zinc-rich brown earth among the used pigments. Hyperspectral imaging showed no underdrawings, but various technical features and past restoration interventions were possible to document. The findings provide valuable artistic and technical information regarding the painting materials and style used by this influential 16th-century master, as well as key information that can support the conservation strategy of this remarkable artwork.
Pomegranate juice consumption by patients under medication for addiction treatment as regulator of craving and blood redox status: The study protocol of a randomized control trial (the NUTRIDOPE study)
Authors: Leventelis Christonikos , Tasoulis Sotiris , Kouretas Demetrios , Metsios George S. , Veskoukis Aristidis S.
Published: August 2023

Background
Buprenorphine and methadone are considered the “gold standard” medication for addiction treatment (MAT) for patients with opioid use disorders (OUDs). However, they may cause side effects promoting craving. Pomegranate is a natural substance that contains antioxidant polyphenolic compounds, which have been associated with craving reduction. Aim: The NUTRIDOPE (NUTRItion-driven Detoxification of OPioid addicted patiEnts) study aims to investigate the role of pomegranate juice consumption by opioid patients under buprenorphine and methadone on craving, as the primary outcome, and biopsychosocial parameters.
Methods
NUTRIDOPE is a randomized control trial with repeated measures. The participants, who will be patients with OUDs attending rehab programs in the Greek Organization Against Drugs, will be randomly divided into the experimental and the control groups and both groups will be further stratified into two subgroups, i.e., methadone and buprenorphine, according to the maintenance treatment program they attend. Pomegranate juice will be administered to the participants of the experimental group, whereas their counterparts in the control group will not consume any similar beverage. The administration regimen will be 250 ml, seven days/week, four months.
Results
Craving, as well as physiological (sleep, constipation, fatigue), psychosocial (depression, mood state, quality of life) and biochemical (i.e., blood redox status and inflammation) parameters will be evaluated.
Conclusions
NUTRIDOPE is a hypothesis-driven, evidence-based, multifactorial project that proposes a nutrition-based solution towards craving reduction for opioid patients under MAT, potentially assisting towards their successful rehab and societal reintegration.
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
NCT05861544
An iron fist in a velvet glove: The cooperation of a novel pyoverdine from Pseudomonas donghuensis P482 (PVDP482) with 7-hydroxytropolone is pivotal for its antibacterial activity.
Authors: Jafra Sylwia , Jabłońska Magdalena , Maciąg Tomasz , Matuszewska Marta , Borowicz Marcin , Prusiński Michał , Żmudzisńska Wioletta , Theil Marcel , Czaplewska Paulina , Krzyżanowska Dorota M. , Czajkowski Robert
Published: August 2023

Pseudomonas donghuensis P482 exhibits broad antimicrobial activity against phytopathogens, including the soft rot bacteria of the Dickeya genus. Here, we report that under limited nutrient availability, the antibacterial activity of P. donghuensis P482 against Dickeya solani requires the reciprocal action of two iron scavengers: 7-hydroxytropolone (7-HT) and a newly characterised pyoverdine (PVDP482) and is quenched in the iron-augmented environment. Further, we show that the biosynthesis of pyoverdine and 7-HT is metabolically coordinated, and the functional BV82_4709 gene involved in 7-HT synthesis is pivotal for expressing the BV82_3755 gene, essential for pyoverdine biosynthesis and vice versa. The synthesis of both scavengers is under the control of Gac/Rsm, but only PVD is controlled by Fur. The isoelectric focusing profile of the P482 siderophore differs from that of the other Pseudomonas spp. tested. This finding led to the unveiling of the chemical structure of the new pyoverdine PVDP482. To summarise, the antibacterial activity of P. donghuensis P482 is attributed to 7-HT and PVDP482, varies depending on the nutrient and iron availability, highlighting the importance of these factors in the competition between P482 and D. solani.
Perceptions of Deliberate Self-Harm in Thailand: The Role of Gender and Public Stigmas
Authors:   Independent Researcher, Bangkok, Thailand, Petchpul Nitcha , Rhein Douglas ,   Faculty of Social Science, Mahidol University International College, 999 Bhuddamonthon 4 Rd. Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
Published: August 2023

Previous studies on the general public’s perception of self-harm have focused on “nonsuicidal self-injury” (NSSI). Research on “deliberate self-harm” (DSH) as a form of impulsive non-lethal suicide has rarely been examined. To address the paucity of literature available within the Asian context, the present study examined the Thai general public’s perception toward acts of DSH in the context of failed suicide attempts. The central question of this study is “how do members of the Thai general public perceive impulsive acts of DSH with suicidal intent?” One hundred twenty-six Thais completed the attribution model of public discrimination questionnaire as adopted from a study by Corrigan et al. (2003). The present study employed two vignettes and compared male and female responses to acts of DSH. Assessments were made in regards to the attribution of: 1) personal responsibility beliefs (PRB); 2) affective responses (e.g., pity, anger, and fear); and 3) coercionsegregation responses toward persons who committed acts of DSH. Independent sample t-test showed a significant difference in Thai men and women’s attribution of helping responses.