bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxic metal mixtures in private well water and increased risk for preterm birth in North Carolina
Authors: Eaves Lauren A. , Keil Alexander P. , Jukic Anne Marie , Dhingra Radhika , Brooks Jada L. , Manuck Tracy A. , Rager Julia E. , Fry Rebecca C.
Published: October 2023

Background

Prenatal exposure to metals in private well water may increase the risk of preterm birth (PTB) (delivery < 37 weeks’ gestation). In this study, we estimated associations between arsenic, manganese, lead, cadmium, chromium, copper, and zinc concentrations in private well water and PTB incidence in North Carolina (NC).

Methods

Birth certificates from 2003–2015 (n = 1,329,071) were obtained and pregnancies were assigned exposure using the mean concentration and the percentage of tests above the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for the census tract of each individuals’ residence at the time of delivery using the NCWELL database (117,960 well water tests from 1998–2019). We evaluated associations between single metals and PTB using adjusted logistic regression models. Metals mixtures were assessed using quantile-based g-computation.

Results

Compared with those in other census tracts, individuals residing in tracts where > 25% of tests exceeded the MCL for lead (aOR 1.10, 95%CI 1.02,1.18) or cadmium (aOR 1.11, 95% CI 1.00,1.23) had an increased odds of PTB. Conversely, those residing in areas with > 25% MCL for zinc (aOR 0.77 (95% CI: 0.56,1.02) and copper (aOR 0.53 (95% CI: 0.13,1.34)) had a reduced odds of PTB. A quartile increase in the concentrations of a mixture of lead, cadmium, and chromium was associated with a small increased odds for PTB (aOR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01, 1.03). This metal mixture effect was most pronounced among American Indian individuals (aOR per quartile increase in all metals: 1.19 (95% CI 1.06,1.34)).

Conclusions

In a large study population of over one million births, lead and cadmium were found to increase the risk of PTB individually and in a mixture, with additional mixtures-related impacts estimated from co-exposure with chromium. This study highlights critical racial and ethnic health disparities in relation to private well water thereby emphasizing the urgent need for improved private well water quality to protect vulnerable populations.
Adipose stromal cells bioproducts as cell-free therapies: manufacturing and therapeutic dose determine in vitro functionality
Authors: Skovronova Renata , Scaccia Eleonora , Calcat-i-Cervera Sandra , Bussolati Benedetta , O’Brien Timothy , Bieback Karen
Published: October 2023

Background

Extracellular vesicles (EV) are considered a cell-free alternative to mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy. Numerous reports describe the efficacy of EV in conferring immunomodulation and promoting angiogenesis, yet others report these activities to be conveyed in EV-free bioproducts. We hypothesized that this discrepancy may depend either on the method of isolation or rather the relative impact of the individual bioactive components within the MSC secretome.

Methods

To answer this question, we performed an inter-laboratory study evaluating EV generated from adipose stromal cells (ASC) by either sequential ultracentrifugation (UC) or size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). The effect of both EV preparations on immunomodulation and angiogenesis in vitro was compared to that of the whole secretome and of the EV-free protein fraction after SEC isolation.

Results

In the current study, neither the EV preparations, the secretome or the protein fraction were efficacious in inhibiting mitogen-driven T cell proliferation. However, EV generated by SEC stimulated macrophage phagocytic activity to a similar extent as the secretome. In turn, tube formation and wound healing were strongly promoted by the ASC secretome and protein fraction, but not by EV. Within the secretome/protein fraction, VEGF was identified as a potential driver of angiogenesis, and was absent in both EV preparations.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that the effects of ASC on immunomodulation and angiogenesis are EV-independent. Specific ASC-EV effects need to be dissected for their use as cell-free therapeutics.
Stress, depression, anxiety, and quality of life among the healthcare workers during COVID-19 pandemic in Syria: a multi-center study
Authors: Al Houri Hasan Nabil , Alhouri Abdullah , Arrouk Douaa Mohammad Nazir , Al Houri Ahmad Nabil , Jomaa Sami , Sharabi Alaa , Kannout Hussein , Latifeh Youssef
Published: October 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic emerged as an expected source of stress and anxiety as the healthcare workers had to work for long hours in close contact with infected patients, thus increasing the probability of medical errors and threatening the patients’ safety. This study aims to measure the levels of depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and stress among Syrian healthcare workers and their quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in six central hospitals in Damascus, Syria. Data were collected from 1 to 30 June—2021. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale—21 (DASS-21) was used to evaluate depression, anxiety, and stress among healthcare workers. Quality of life was assessed using the EUROHIS-QOL 8-item index.

Results

A total of 700 participants were included in this study. 61.6% (n = 431) were males and 38.4% (n = 269) were females. Younger ages (18–29 years old) were significantly associated with higher levels of depression and stress (p < 0.0083). Female healthcare workers had higher significant levels of anxiety (p < 0.05). Significant anxiety and stress levels were reported when healthcare workers had contact with COVID-19 patients, even if they had protective equipment (p < 0.05). Half of the participants (50%; n = 349) reported a good quality of life.

Conclusion

Stress levels and depressive symptoms were remarkably higher in healthcare workers of ages 18 and 29 years old, whereas anxiety levels were significantly higher and more severe in female healthcare workers. Moreover, direct interaction with COVID-19 patients was associated with higher levels of stress and anxiety symptoms.
Validity and reliability of hallux valgus angle measurement on smartphone digital photographs
Authors: Cakar Albert , Kose Ozkan , Dogruoz Firat , Selcuk Huseyin , Kirtis Tolga , Egerci Omer Faruk
Published: October 2023

Background

This prospective study aimed to test the reliability and validity of hallux valgus angle (HVA) measurement on smartphone digital photographs compared with the standard radiographic evaluation.

Methods

Twenty Seven female patients (45 feet) with forefoot deformity were evaluated with weight‐bearing anteroposterior foot radiographs and smartphone photographs. Radiographic hallux valgus angle (rHVA) was measured on digital radiographs. Two different photographic HVA measurement methods were used. In the first, the longitudinal axes of the first metatarsal and proximal phalanx were determined, and the angle between these axes was measured (pHVA), similar to the radiographic method. In the other method, the angle of the margo medialis pedis was measured on the photograph (pMMP). Two independent observers performed all measurements twice on two different occasions. Reliability analysis was performed using the interclass correlation coefficient. Agreement between the measurements was tested using Bland‐Altman analysis.

Results

The repeated rHVA, pHVA and pMMP measurements showed excellent intra and inter‐observer reliability, with ICC values above 0.900. The mean rHVA, pHVA, and pMMP were statistically similar (p:0.929, 27.03°±8.7°, 27.11°±8.8° and 26.5°±9.0° respectively). The mean difference between the rHVA and pHVA was − 0.07°±5.1° (range, ‐‐9.67 to 9.56°), and the mean difference between the rHVA and pMMP was 0.53°±4.4° (range, ‐9.76° to 8.22°). There was a strong positive correlation between both photographic methods and radiographic measurements (rho = 0.809, p = 0.001 and rho = 0.872, p = 0.001). In the Bland Altman plot, the upper and lower LOAs (95%CI) ranged from − 10.11° to 9.93° for rHVA and pHVA, and from − 8.26° to 9.33° for rHVA and pMMP. Linear regression analysis showed a proportional bias for pHVA but not for the pMMP (p:0.010 versus p:0.633, respectively). The range of the mean difference (prediction interval) between the pMMP and rHVA was 17.59° and 20° for pHVA and rHVA. Simple linear regression showed that the rHVA was predicted by the following equation: rHVA = 4.73 + 0.84 × pMMP (r2 = 0.761, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Although measuring HVA through smartphone photographs is reliable, it is not a valid prediction method.

Level of evidence

Level II, diagnostic assessment.
MalariaSED: a deep learning framework to decipher the regulatory contributions of noncoding variants in malaria parasites
Authors: Wang Chengqi , Dong Yibo , Li Chang , Oberstaller Jenna , Zhang Min , Gibbons Justin , Pires Camilla Valente , Xiao Mianli , Zhu Lei , Jiang Rays H. Y. , Kim Kami , Miao Jun , Otto Thomas D. , Cui Liwang , Adams John H. , Liu Xiaoming
Published: October 2023

Malaria remains one of the deadliest infectious diseases. Transcriptional regulation effects of noncoding variants in this unusual genome of malaria parasites remain elusive. We developed a sequence-based, ab initio deep learning framework, MalariaSED, for predicting chromatin profiles in malaria parasites. The MalariaSED performance was validated by published ChIP-qPCR and TF motifs results. Applying MalariaSED to ~ 1.3 million variants shows that geographically differentiated noncoding variants are associated with parasite invasion and drug resistance. Further analysis reveals chromatin accessibility changes at Plasmodium falciparum rings are partly associated with artemisinin resistance. MalariaSED illuminates the potential functional roles of noncoding variants in malaria parasites.
Analysis of transcriptomic features reveals molecular endotypes of SLE with clinical implications
Authors: Hubbard Erika L. , Bachali Prathyusha , Kingsmore Kathryn M. , He Yisha , Catalina Michelle D. , Grammer Amrie C. , Lipsky Peter E.
Published: October 2023

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is known to be clinically heterogeneous. Previous efforts to characterize subsets of SLE patients based on gene expression analysis have not been reproduced because of small sample sizes or technical problems. The aim of this study was to develop a robust patient stratification system using gene expression profiling to characterize individual lupus patients.

Methods

We employed gene set variation analysis (GSVA) of informative gene modules to identify molecular endotypes of SLE patients, machine learning (ML) to classify individual patients into molecular subsets, and logistic regression to develop a composite metric estimating the scope of immunologic perturbations. SHapley Additive ExPlanations (SHAP) revealed the impact of specific features on patient sub-setting.

Results

Using five datasets comprising 2183 patients, eight SLE endotypes were identified. Expanded analysis of 3166 samples in 17 datasets revealed that each endotype had unique gene enrichment patterns, but not all endotypes were observed in all datasets. ML algorithms trained on 2183 patients and tested on 983 patients not used to develop the model demonstrated effective classification into one of eight endotypes. SHAP indicated a unique array of features influential in sorting individual samples into each of the endotypes. A composite molecular score was calculated for each patient and significantly correlated with standard laboratory measures. Significant differences in clinical characteristics were associated with different endotypes, with those with the least perturbed transcriptional profile manifesting lower disease severity. The more abnormal endotypes were significantly more likely to experience a severe flare over the subsequent 52 weeks while on standard-of-care medication and specific endotypes were more likely to be clinical responders to the investigational product tested in one clinical trial analyzed (tabalumab).

Conclusions

Transcriptomic profiling and ML reproducibly separated lupus patients into molecular endotypes with significant differences in clinical features, outcomes, and responsiveness to therapy. Our classification approach using a composite scoring system based on underlying molecular abnormalities has both staging and prognostic relevance.
Comprehensive analysis of serum exosome-derived lncRNAs and mRNAs from patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Xue Li , Wang Biao , Li Xueyi , Zhu Jianhong , Wang Wei , Huang Fang , Wang Xiaofei , Jin Yaofeng , Xiong Chaoliang , Tao Li , Xu Ke , Wang Jing , Guo Ying , Xu Jing , Yang Xin , Wang Na , Gao Ning , Wang Yan , Li Ke , Li Ming , Geng Yan
Published: October 2023

Background

Serum exosomes play important roles in intercellular communication and are promising biomarkers of several autoimmune diseases. However, the biological functions and potential clinical importance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNAs from serum exosomes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have not yet been studied.

Methods

Serum exosomal lncRNAs and mRNAs were isolated from patients with RA and osteoarthritis (OA) and healthy controls. The differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE-lncRNAs) and mRNA profiles in the serum exosomes of patients with RA were analysed using high-throughput sequencing, and their functions were predicted using Gene Ontologyenrichment, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway, and gene set enrichment analysis. We constructed a DE-lncRNA-mRNA network and a protein–protein interaction network of differentially expressed mRNAs (DE-mRNAs) in RA using the Cytoscape software. The expression of several candidate a DE-lncRNAs and DE-mRNAs in the serum of patients with RA, patients with OA, and healthy controls was confirmed by qRT-PCR. We assessed the diagnostic ability of DE-lncRNAs and DE-mRNAs in patients with RA using receiver operating characteristic analysis. Furthermore, we analysed the characteristics of immune cell infiltration in RA by digital cytometry using the CIBERSORT algorithm and determined the correlation between immune cells and several DE-lncRNAs or DE-mRNAs in RA.

Results

The profiles of serum exosomal lncRNAs and mRNAs in patients with RA were different from those in healthy controls and patients with OA. The functions of both DE-lncRNAs and DE-mRNAs in RA are associated with the immune response and cellular metabolic processes. The RT-PCR results show that NONHSAT193357.1, CCL5, and MPIG6B were downregulated in patients with RA. The combination of three DE-mRNAs, CCL5, MPIG6B, and PFKP, had an area under the curve of 0.845 for differentiating RA from OA. Digital cytometry using the CIBERSORT algorithm showed that the neutrophil counts were higher in patients with RA than those in healthy controls and patients with OA.

Conclusions

These findings help to elucidate the role of serum exosomal lncRNAs and mRNAs in the specific mechanisms underlying RA.
Diabetes related phenotypes and their influence on outcomes of patients with corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Alves Lais Isidoro , Bosco Adriana Aparecida , Rosa Adriana Aparecida , Correia Marcia Regina Soares , Matioli Sergio Russo , da Silva Maria Elizabeth Rossi ,   HCFMUSP COVID-19 Study Group, Barros-Filho Tarcisio E.P. , Utiyama Edivaldo M. , Segurado Aluisio C. , Perondi Beatriz , Montal Amanda C. , Harima Leila , Fusco Solange R.G. , Silva Marjorie F , Rocha Marcelo C. , Rios Izabel Cristina , Kawano Fabiane Yumi Ogihara , Jesus Maria Amélia de , Kallas Esper , Francisco Maria Cristina Peres Braido , Carmo Carolina Mendes do , Tanaka Clarice , Oliveira Maura Salaroli , Guimarães Thaís , Lázari Carolina dos Santos , Magri Marcello M.C. , Marchini Julio F.M. , Duarte Alberto José da Silva , Sabino Ester C. , Costa Silvia Figueiredo , Morais Anna Miethke , Souza Heraldo Possolo de , Carvalho Carlos Roberto Ribeiro , Ferreira Juliana Carvalho , Levin Anna Sara Shafferman
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with severe forms of COVID-19 but little is known about the diabetes—related phenotype considering pre-admission, on-admission and data covering the entire hospitalization period.

Methods

We analyzed COVID-19 inpatients (n = 3327) aged 61.2(48.2–71.4) years attended from March to September 2020 in a public hospital.

Results

DM group (n = 1218) differed from Non-DM group (n = 2109) by higher age, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure and lower O2 saturation on admission. Gender, ethnicity and COVID-19-related symptoms were similar. Glucose and several markers of inflammation, tissue injury and organ dysfunction were higher among patients with diabetes: troponin, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase (CPK), C-reactive protein (CRP), lactate, brain natriuretic peptide, urea, creatinine, sodium, potassium but lower albumin levels. Hospital (12 × 11 days) and intensive care unit permanence (10 × 9 days) were similar but DM group needed more vasoactive, anticoagulant and anti-platelet drugs, oxygen therapy, endotracheal intubation and dialysis. Lethality was higher in patients with diabetes (39.3% × 30.7%) and increased with glucose levels and age, in male sex and with BMI < 30 kg/m2 in both groups (obesity paradox). It was lower with previous treatment with ACEi/BRA in both groups. Ethnicity and education level did not result in different outcomes between groups. Higher frequency of comorbidities (hypertension, cardiovascular/renal disease, stroke), of inflammatory (higher leucocyte number, RCP, LDH, troponin) and renal markers (urea, creatinine, potassium levels and lower sodium, magnesium) differentiated lethality risk between patients with and without diabetes.

Conclusions

Comorbidities, inflammatory markers and renal disfunction but not Covid-19-related symptoms, obesity, ethnicity and education level differentiated lethality risk between patients with and without diabetes.
Fixed point theorems for enriched Kannan mappings in CAT(0) spaces
Authors: Inuwa A. Y. , Kumam P. , Chaipunya P. , Salisu S.
Published: October 2023

We present enriched Kannan and enriched Bianchini mappings in the framework of unique geodesic spaces. For such mappings, we establish the existence and uniqueness of a fixed point in the setting of CAT(0) spaces and show that an appropriate Krasnoselskij scheme converges with certain rate to the fixed point. We proved some inclusion relations between enriched Kannan mapping and some applicable mappings such as strongly demicontractive mapping. Finally, we give an example in a nonlinear CAT(0) space and perform numerical experiments to support the theoretical results.
A case of internal hernia in the pararectal fossa
Authors: Matsuishi Kozue , Saito Seiya , Ohuchi Mayuko , Kiyozumi Yuki , Nasu Jiro , Hanada Norihisa , Baba Hideo
Published: October 2023

Background

Internal hernias are relatively rare and difficult to diagnose. Diagnostic delays lead to the progression of strangulation. In particular, pararectal fossa hernias are extremely rare. We encountered a case in which internal hernia occurred in the pararectal fossa.

Case presentation

An 87-year-old woman was referred to our hospital because of persistent lower abdominal pain and vomiting. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed findings of intestinal ischemia, such as closed loop formation with reduced contrast effect on the left side of the rectum in the pelvis. Strangulation small bowel obstruction was diagnosed, and emergency laparotomy was performed. The small intestine was found to invade the peritoneal reflection on the left side of the rectum. The patient was finally diagnosed with pararectal fossa hernia. The incarcerated small intestine was released with no bowel resection. The 4-cm hernia phylum was observed and closed by simple suture. The patient had a good postoperative course without recurrence.

Conclusions

We encountered a very rare case of internal hernia in the left pararectal fossa. Preoperative diagnosis of this disease is difficult, but it should nevertheless be considered in cases in which the cause of the intestinal obstruction is unknown.
Commissure leaflet prolapse closely mimics anterior mitral leaflet perforation in 2-D image of transesophageal echocardiography
Authors: Miyata Kazuto , Shigematsu Sayaka , Miyayama Naoki
Published: October 2023

Background

Precise diagnosis of mitral valve regurgitation is challenging, particularly for distinguishing between commissure leaflet prolapse and anterior leaflet perforation, based exclusively on 2-dimensional (2-D) imaging by transesophageal echocardiography.

Case 1

Two mitral regurgitation jets suggesting anterior leaflet perforation, but no regurgitation orifices, were observed in the mid esophageal (ME) 4-chamber view. Multiple 2-D and 3-dimensional (3-D) images revealed prolapse of the anterior (A3) leaflet and posterior commissure, not anterior leaflet perforation.

Case 2

A regurgitation jet suggesting an anterior leaflet prolapse with a regurgitation orifice was observed in ME long-axis view. Multiple 2-D and 3-D images showed only anterior commissure prolapse, but no signs of anterior leaflet perforation.

Conclusions

A regurgitant jet caused by commissure leaflet prolapse closely resembles anterior leaflet perforation in 2-D imaging. Careful evaluation of multiple 2-D and 3-D images, as well as of the regurgitation orifices, is crucially important for making an accurate diagnosis.
Fully automated radiolabeling of [68Ga]Ga-EMP100 targeting c-MET for PET-CT clinical imaging
Authors: Rusu Timofei , Delion Matthieu , Pirot Charlotte , Blin Amaury , Rodenas Anita , Talbot Jean-Noël , Veran Nicolas , Portal Christophe , Montravers Françoise , Cadranel Jacques , Prignon Aurélie
Published: October 2023

Background

c-MET is a transmembrane receptor involved in many biological processes and contributes to cell proliferation and migration during cancer invasion process. Its expression is measured by immunehistochemistry on tissue biopsy in clinic, although this technique has its limitations. PET-CT could allow in vivo mapping of lesions expressing c-MET, providing whole-body detection. A number of radiopharmaceuticals are under development for this purpose but are not yet in routine clinical use. EMP100 is a cyclic oligopeptide bound to a DOTA chelator, with nanomolar affinity for c-MET. The aim of this project was to develop an automated method for radiolabelling the radiopharmaceutical [68Ga]Ga-EMP100.

Results

The main results showed an optimal pH range between 3.25 and 3.75 for the complexation reaction and a stabilisation of the temperature at 90 °C, resulting in an almost complete incorporation of gallium-68 after 10 min of heating. In these experiments, 90 µg of EMP-100 peptide were initially used and then lower amounts (30, 50, 75 µg) were explored to determine the minimum required for sufficient synthesis yield. Radiolysis impurities were identified by radio-HPLC and ascorbic acid and ethanol were used to improve the purity of the compound. Three batches of [68Ga]Ga-EMP100 were then prepared according to the optimised parameters and all met the established specifications. Finally, the stability of [68Ga]Ga-EMP100 was assessed at room temperature over 3 h with satisfactory results in terms of appearance, pH, radiochemical purity and sterility.

Conclusions

For the automated synthesis of [68Ga]Ga-EMP100, the parameters of pH, temperature, precursor peptide content and the use of adjuvants for impurity management were efficiently optimised, resulting in the production of three compliant and stable batches according to the principles of good manufacturing practice. [68Ga]Ga-EMP100 was successfully synthesised and is now available for clinical development in PET-CT imaging.
Suppression strategy for the inrush current of a solid-state transformer caused by the reclosing process
Authors: Xie Weijie , Xiao Fan , Tu Chunming , Zheng Yuting , Peng Zihao , Guo Qi
Published: October 2023

The automatic reclosing strategy is an effective measure to improve the reliability of a distribution network. It can quickly clear instantaneous faults in the grid. The traditional transformer has proven to be reliable and robust during the reclosing process. However, the influence of the reclosing process on the operational characteristics and reliability of solid-state transformers (SST) is still unclear. The reclosing action may generate a huge inrush current, resulting in shutdown and even damage of the SST. To address this problem, this paper proposes an inrush current suppression strategy. First, the operational performance of the SST under a reclosing process is discussed, and the inrush current generation mechanism is analyzed in detail. Then, considering the controllability of distributed generation (DG), a novel DG-supported inrush current suppression strategy is proposed. The suppression ability of the DG on inrush current in different initial conditions is analyzed. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed strategy is verified by simulation and experiment. These show that the proposed strategy can help to enhance the FRT capability of the SST, as well as support the SST to maintain continuous power supply and physical integrity during grid faults.
Analysis of 27 Y-chromosomal STR loci of the Mestizo Peruvian population
Authors: Neyra-Rivera Carlos David , Ramos Edgardo Delgado , Ingunza Ericson Gutierrez , Budowle Bruce
Published: October 2023

Background

Y-chromosome-specific short tandem repeat markers reside on the non-recombinant portion of the Y chromosome and are paternally inherited. These properties make Y-STRs a useful tool in investigations of sexual assault and other violent crimes, paternity cases, genealogical testing, and evolutionary studies. Native populations reside in the Peruvian coast, mountains, and jungle; however, the Mestizos are the largest population group in Peru.

Results

Of the 290 samples, 283 distinct haplotypes were observed. Gene diversities for each Y-STR marker ranged from 0.4271 to 0.8597. The haplotype diversity for the total sample was 0.9964.

Conclusions

Genetic affinity was identified between the Peruvian Mestizo population and other Peruvian populations (except Jivaro, Awajun, and Shipibo-Conibo populations) and Bolivian Mestizo populations using multidimensional scaling and phylogenetic tree analysis
FAM72D in plasma cell myeloma: a friend or enemy
Authors: Ahmed Riham Ahmed Ramadan , Fayek Manal Hashem Ahmed , Eissa Doaa Ahmed Gamal , Moussa Mohammed Mahmoud , Hassan Noha Bassiouny , Salem Dalia Diaa ElDine
Published: October 2023

Background

Plasma cell neoplasm is characterized by complex genetic and prognostic heterogeneity. FAM72D, a gene located on chromosome 1, and the association between its expression and tumor progression and prognosis remain elusive.

Methods

The present study aims to assess FAM72D mRNA expression in 60 PCM patients and correlate its expression level with clinical and laboratory markers involved in diagnosing and prognosis of PCM using real-time PCR.

Results

Unpaired t-test revealed a significantly higher FAM72D expression level in the patients than in the control group with a median of 0.890 vs. /0.030, respectively, and p value = 0.000. The highest median level was denoted in newly diagnosed or relapsed patients (1.905, p value = 0.000). A significant positive correlation was found between FAM72D expression level and each of BMPCs count, M band, and β2 microglobulin (p = 0.000, p = 0.002, p = 0.024, respectively), and negative correlations with both serum albumin and hemoglobin level (p = 0.000, p = 0.035, respectively). The risk of relapse was 18.3-fold when the FAM72D level was greater than 1.547.

Conclusion

The higher FAM72D expression level in newly diagnosed and relapsed myeloma patients and its positive correlation with BMPCs confirm the stimulating effect of FAM72D on myeloma cell proliferation and its poor prognosis.
Characterization and optimization of clove oil-loaded nanomicelles for the possible topical use of bacterial infection-led atopic dermatitis
Authors: Mustafa Gulam , Almohsen Rand Abdullah , Alotaibi Munira Motlaq , Alotaibi Mohammed Majed , Alotaibi Ruaa Majed , El Kirdasy Ahmed Farag , Khan Farhan R. , Alharthi Nahed S. , Binshaya Abdulkarim S. , Alotaibi Faisal , Ansari Md Salahuddin
Published: October 2023

Background

Atopic dermatitis is an abnormal skin condition that impacts a significant number of people in the US, with an estimated 9.6 million children and 16.5 million adults being affected by it. The study aimed to characterize and optimize clove oil-based nanomicelles for the possible topical use of bacterial infection-led atopic dermatitis. Clove oil-loaded nanomicelles were produced and carefully analyzed for vesicle diameter, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, morphological attributes, entrapment efficiency, in vitro release, stability, dermatokinetic parameters, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging behavior and antibacterial activity. Different models, such as Korsmeyer, Higuchi, first order, and zero order were employed to evaluate the in vitro release from the formulations.

Results

The average size of the clove oil nanomicelles was found to be 100.15 nm with a PDI of 0.2104; they were observed to be darker against a light background. The evaluated mean zeta size was 121.3 nm, the zeta potential was − 15.31 mV. The inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) of the formulation was 61.32 ± 0.98 μg/mL; clove oil was 73.56 ± 1.63 μg/mL, against ascorbic acid was 54.51 ± 0.79 μg/mL. Among the four models tested for in vitro release kinetics, the Korsmeyer Peppas model was followed by the nanomicelles formulation. Clove oil nanomicelles generated a higher concentration of 148.68 w/v on the skin epidermis within 1.5 h, whereas the conventional formulation exhibited 55.287 w/v. Moreover, clove oil nanomicelles generated a higher concentration of 125.84 µg/mL on the skin's dermis within 2 h, whereas the conventional formulation produced 68.263 µg/mL. The nanomicelles also inhibited bacterial growth within a 24-h period.

Conclusions

The study presents initial evidence regarding the potency of clove oil-based nanomicelles and their enhanced efficiency on the skin. Thus, the prepared formulation can further be studied and incorporated for the possible use against bacterial infection-led atopic dermatitis.

Graphical abstract
Nanoengineered approaches to improve the efficacy of targeted drug delivery for the treatment of malignancy: a comprehensive review
Authors: Bag Jagabandhu , Banerjee Sabyasachi , De Arnab , Manna Sreejan , Banerjee Subhasis , Kumar S. K. Ashok , De Sourav
Published: October 2023

Background

The second leading cause of mortality in the world, behind cardiovascular disorders, is cancer. The currently employed treatment options including radiotherapy, chemotherapy are reported with many adverse reactions. These limitations in combination with high cost of therapy have restricted the management of malignancy. In this review, several nanocarriers-based approaches were described as effective treatment option of malignancy.

The main body of the abstract

The development of innovative and effective targeted therapies for malignancy relies on alterations in the molecular biology of cancerous cells. Given the nonselective destruction of healthy cells, the harmful effects of existing chemotherapy drugs, and the development of multidrug resistance, has thrived the development of novel carriers for improved targeting efficacy of anticancer drugs. The present study offers a comprehensive account of diverse cytotoxic drug carriers, such as carbon nanotubes, liposomes, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, polymeric nanoparticles, and polymeric conjugates, in the context of passive and active targeted cancer therapy. The carriers are known to enhance the permeability and retention or functionalize the surface, thereby improving the efficacy of drug delivery.

Short conclusion

The present literature delineates the progressions made in the nanoengineered approach for administering therapeutic agents to the tumour micro-environment.

Graphical Abstract
Prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction and associated risk factors among Nulligravida college students: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Aiyegbusi Ayoola Ibifubara , Eze Desire Ifeoma , Balogun Oluwaseyi Jessy , Olamijulo Joseph Ayodeji
Published: October 2023

Background

Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a global health problem affecting millions of women worldwide. Vaginal childbirth has been reported to be the most important factor in the etiology of PFD though a prior study also reported a high prevalence of PFD in nulliparous women. Some previous studies had suggested Urinary incontinence before pregnancy as a major risk factor for incontinence later in life, thus prevention of PFD has become a major priority in women’s health, and identification of women at risk is a key element in current prevention strategies It is therefore necessary to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for PFD in Nulligravida women who have never been pregnant to enable preventative measures especially as it regards lifestyle modification.

Methods

Participants were 160 Nulligravida students aged between 17 and 26 years. They were screened for pelvic floor dysfunction using an Australian pelvic floor questionnaire which assessed their bladder function, bowel function, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual function. Descriptive statistics of frequency and percentage were used to summarize categorical variables. Univariate analysis of Fisher’s exact test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were conducted to show the association of categorical and continuous variables with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) respectively. The risk factors of PFD with p values < 0.05 were considered significant. All analyses were performed using R Statistical Computing Programming version 4.2.2.

Results

The prevalence of having at least one of any of the PFD was 73.1% while the prevalence of bladder, bowel, prolapse, and sex dysfunction were 25.63% (41/160), 53.75% (86/160), 1.88% (3/160), and 23.13% (37/160) respectively. BMI was not a significant risk factor for any type of PFD while multi-variable logistic regression identified the level of study, height, history of UTI, and non-sport participation as significant (p < 0.05) risk factors for at least one type of PFD with Odd ratio of 4.91, > 100, 8.47, and 2.86 respectively.

Conclusion

There is high prevalence of PFD among Nulligravida students, with non-participation in sports and history of urinary tract infections being the main significant risk factors.
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate to cortisol ratio as a prognostic factor in cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
Authors: Asker Mohamed Ramadan , Elahwal Loai Mohamed , Hazzaa Sahar Mohy-Eldin , Elhoseeny Shireen Ali , Sarhan Mohamed Elsayed
Published: October 2023

Background

Chronic liver disease and decompensated cirrhosis are associated with serious complications; spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is considered one of them that may lead to sepsis and adrenal insufficiency. This trial aimed to study the role of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) and DHEAS/cortisol ratio for assessing cirrhotic patients’ adrenal function and as a possible prognostic factor in cirrhotic cases with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP).

Patients and methods

It was a prospective cohort trial carried out on 100 patients in the Internal Medicine Department, Tanta University Hospital, from June 2021 to July 2022 divided into 2 studied patient groups: group I, 50 cases with liver cirrhosis and sterile ascites; and group II, 50 cases with liver cirrhosis and SBP. Adrenal function was evaluated using serum cortisol levels (9 A.M, 9 P.M, and post synacthen stimulation test), DHEAS level, and DHEAS/cortisol ratio.

Results

The cirrhotic patients with SBP have significantly decreased DHEAS, decreased DHEAS/cortisol ratio, and high cortisol level post stimulation compared with patients with sterile ascites, cirrhotic cases with decreased DHEAS/cortisol ratio (< 0.65) had elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, a higher model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score and Child–Pugh score had higher hospital mortality. Both DHEAS and the DHEAS/cortisol ratio were significant predictors of hospital mortality (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.267 and 0.298, respectively). The cirrhotic patients with SBP had decreased DHEAS and DHEAS/cortisol ratio but higher hospital mortality, compared to the cirrhotic patients with sterile ascites.

Conclusions

It was found that a significant increase in cortisol level was after synacthen stimulation, decreased DHEAS, and low DHEAS to cortisol ratio in the cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and was associated with high mortality compared to cirrhotic patients without spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.
Deciphering the Clinical Presentations in LMNA-related Lipodystrophy: Report of 115 Cases and a Systematic Review
Authors: Besci Ozge , Foss de Freitas Maria Christina , Guidorizzi Natália Rossin , Guler Merve Celik , Gilio Donatella , Maung Jessica N , Schill Rebecca L , Hoose Keegan S , Obua Bonje N , Gomes Anabela D , Yıldırım Şimşir Ilgın , Demir Korcan , Akinci Baris , MacDougald Ormond A , Oral Elif A
Published: October 2023

Context

Lipodystrophy syndromes are a heterogeneous group of rare genetic or acquired disorders characterized by generalized or partial loss of adipose tissue. LMNA-related lipodystrophy syndromes are classified based on the severity and distribution of adipose tissue loss.

Objective

We aimed to annotate all clinical and metabolic features of patients with lipodystrophy syndromes carrying pathogenic LMNA variants and assess potential genotype-phenotype relationships.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed and analyzed all our cases (n = 115) and all published cases (n = 379) curated from 94 studies in the literature.

Results

The study included 494 patients. The most common variants in our study, R482Q and R482W, were associated with similar metabolic characteristics and complications though those with the R482W variant were younger (aged 33 [24] years vs 44 [25] years; P < .001), had an earlier diabetes diagnosis (aged 27 [18] vs 40 [17] years; P < .001) and had lower body mass index levels (24 [5] vs 25 [4]; P = .037). Dyslipidemia was the earliest biochemical evidence described in 83% of all patients at a median age of 26 (10) years, while diabetes was reported in 61% of cases. Among 39 patients with an episode of acute pancreatitis, the median age at acute pancreatitis diagnosis was 20 (17) years. Patients who were reported to have diabetes had 3.2 times, while those with hypertriglyceridemia had 12.0 times, the odds of having pancreatitis compared to those who did not.

Conclusion

This study reports the largest number of patients with LMNA-related lipodystrophy syndromes to date. Our report helps to quantify the prevalence of the known and rare complications associated with different phenotypes and serves as a comprehensive catalog of all known cases.
Vertebral Body Reshaping after Fractures: An Important Index of Recovery in Glucocorticoid-Treated Children
Authors: Ma Jinhui , Siminoski Kerry , Jaremko Jacob L , Koujok Khaldoun , Matzinger Mary Ann , Shenouda Nazih , Wilson Nagwa , Cheng Megan , Alos Nathalie , Atkinson Stephanie , Cummings Elizabeth A , Ho Josephine , Rodd Celia , Sbrocchi Anne Marie , Stein Robert , Barr Ronald , Cairney Elizabeth , Dix David B , Fernandez Conrad V , Grant Ronald , Halton Jacqueline , Israels Sara , Laverdière Caroline , Lewis Victor A , Cabral David A , Huber Adam , Houghton Kristin , Jurencak Roman , Lang Bianca , Larché Maggie , LeBlanc Claire M A , Miettunen Paivi , Roth Johannes , Scuccimarri Rosie , Bell Lorraine , Blydt-Hansen Tom , Filler Guido , Feber Janusz , Phan Véronique , Smit Kevin , Rauch Frank , Ward Leanne M
Published: October 2023

Purpose

In this 6-year study we identified factors associated with spontaneous vertebral body reshaping in glucocorticoid (GC)-treated children with leukemia, rheumatic disorders, and nephrotic syndrome.

Methods

Subjects were 79 children (mean age 7.4 years) who had vertebral fracture (VF) evaluation on lateral spine radiographs at least 1 year after VF detection. VF were graded using the modified Genant semiquantitative method and fracture burden for individuals was quantified using the spinal deformity index (SDI; sum of grades from T4 to L4).

Results

Sixty-five children (82.3%) underwent complete vertebral body reshaping (median time from VF detection to complete reshaping 1.3 years by Cox proportional hazard modeling). Of 237 VF, the majority (83.1%) ultimately reshaped, with 87.2% reshaping in the thoracic region vs 70.7% in the lumbar region (P = .004). Cox models showed that (1) every g/m2 increase in GC exposure in the first year after VF detection was associated with a 19% decline in the probability of reshaping; (2) each unit increase in the SDI at the time of VF detection was associated with a 19% decline in the probability of reshaping [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.81; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.71, 0.92; P = .001]; (3) each additional VF present at the time of VF detection reduced reshaping by 25% (HR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.62, 0.90; P = .002); and (4) each higher grade of VF severity decreased reshaping by 65% (HR = 0.35; 95% CI = 0.21, 0.57; P < .001).

Conclusion

After experiencing a VF, children with higher GC exposure, higher SDI, more severe fractures, or lumbar VF were at increased risk for persistent vertebral deformity.
yes. still. movement.
Authors: McQuirter Marya
Published: October 2023

How does one attempt to look at a photograph that is not attached to an institutional archive and for which there is no known historical data? How does one attempt to look when all you have is the photographic object? Focusing on a circa 1893 tintype of a couple of bicyclists taken at an indoor photography studio, this essay offers a set of reading practices that position photographic subjects as coproducers with the photographer and argues for stillness as a form of movement, rather than the suspension of movement. Conceived this way, this stillness illuminates the connections between movement indoors and outdoors and imagines nineteenth century US-based photographic subjects as diasporic cultural producers. The tintype is part of a larger set of what this essay calls bicycling photographs that were popular in the late nineteenth century, through which individuals and groups remixed two of the most popular technologies — bicycles and photography — to create new material objects that they could frame and keep in a dwelling place and move within and between dwelling places. Moreover, through the coproduction of new material objects, the duo, and many others, gave themselves other mobile lives.
Malarstwo w Krośnie w pierwszej połowie XVI wieku – addenda
Authors: Łopatkiewicz Piotr
Published: October 2023

Malarstwo w Krośnie w pierwszej połowie XVI wieku – addenda

W roku 2007 ukazała się książka Piotra Łopatkiewicza Malarstwo w Krośnie w pierwszej połowie XVI wieku, stanowiąca dysertację doktorską autora przygotowaną w 2003 roku, w Instytucie Historii Sztuki UJ. W pracy tej przedstawiono kilkadziesiąt dzieł malarstwa tablicowego i monumentalnego oraz podjęto próbę powiązania ich z krośnieńskim środowiskiem artystycznym. Analiza i charakterystyka materiału zabytkowego, uwzględniająca tematykę dzieł, pozwoliła na rekonstrukcję rozproszonych nastaw ołtarzowych, omówienie ich genezy artystycznej i pierwotnego miejsca przeznaczenia, w końcu zaś – wyodrębnienie kilku grup dzieł malarstwa, łączących się z konkretnymi warsztatami. Co ważne w kilku przypadkach – po raz pierwszy – możliwe okazało się powiązanie dzieł z imionami czynnych w Krośnie malarzy.

Ujawnienie na przestrzeni ostatnich 20 lat, kilku ważnych zabytków malarstwa tablicowego (Krosno, Kombornia, Warzyce) i monumentalnego (Krosno, Domaradz), skłoniły autora do zaprezentowania zarówno wyników prac badawczych prowadzonych w ostatnim czasie, jak i podjęcia próby powiązania ujawnionych dzieł malarstwa z wyodrębnionymi wcześniej grupami warsztatowymi. Przedstawione wyniki badań dowodzą, iż w dziedzinie malarstwa średniowiecznego tego regionu czas odkryć wciąż jeszcze się nie zakończył, a każde nowe odkrycie, poszerzając zasób znanych dzieł malarskich, skutkować będzie w przyszłości koniecznością dopisywania kolejnych addend.
Podkarpacie 1944 oczami sowieckiego szeregowca. O prozie wojennej i wspomnieniowej Wiktora Astafiewa
Authors: Wawrzyńczak Aleksander
Published: October 2023

Podkarpacie 1944 oczami sowieckiego szeregowca. O prozie wojennej i wspomnieniowej Wiktora Astafiewa

Wiktor Astafiew, wybitny pisarz rosyjski, drugiej połowy XX wieku, reprezentant prozy wiejskiej, jako uczestnik II wojny światowej, wiele miejsca w swojej twórczości poświęcił tematyce wojennej. Wraz z Armią Czerwoną walczył też w Polsce na Podkarpaciu. Artykuł prezentuje obraz Podkarpacia w prozie wojennej i wspomnieniowej rosyjskiego prozaika. Z jednej strony Astafiew nie kryje swojej fascynacji polską kulturą szlachecką i pejzażami Podkarpacia, z drugiej zaś w jego relacjach widoczny jest wpływ radzieckiej historiografii i propagandy. Pomimo ewolucji twórczej i światopoglądowej – odrzucenia komunizmu i potępienia wszelkich wojen – pisarz nie potrafił pogodzić się z polską narracją historyczną po 1989 roku, w której Armia Czerwona straciła status „wyzwoliciela” ziem polskich spod niemieckiej okupacji. To stało się przyczyną zmiany stosunku do Polaków, wobec których w swojej ostatniej powieści Wesoły żołnierz Astafiew zajął postawę nader krytyczną.
Klimow i inni. O niezrealizowanych ekranizacjach „Mistrza i Małgorzaty”
Authors: Przebinda Igor
Published: October 2023

Klimow i inni. O niezrealizowanych ekranizacjach „Mistrza i Małgorzaty”

W niniejszym artykule podjęto próbę zarysowania historii najważniejszych planowanych, lecz ostatecznie niezrealizowanych ekranizacji Mistrza i Małgorzaty. Omówione projekty obejmują okres około pięćdziesięciu lat i rozciągają się w czasie od późnych lat 60. XX w. do lat 20. XXI w. Opisywane przedsięwzięcia filmowe planowane były głównie w wytwórniach radzieckich (Mosfilm) i rosyjskich (Mars Media) oraz w studiach hollywoodzkich (m.in. Columbia i Lucasfilm), przy udziale twórców rosyjskich, amerykańskich i europejskich. Artykuł skupia się w dużej części na szkicowaniu obrazu konkretnych działań projektowych i producenckich w obrębie tychże przedsięwzięć. Osobne miejsce poświęcone jest adaptacyjnym strategiom adaptacyjnym, ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem scenariusza braci Klimowów.
Upamiętnić życie i czyny generała Stanisława Maczka
Authors: Tereszkiewicz Franciszek , Kubit Marek
Published: October 2023

Brak
Hacia un nuevo estatuto de los signos de la ciudad
Authors: Choay François
Published: October 2023

Los signos construidos, que aseguraban el arraigo local de las comunidades urbanas hasta el comienzo de la era industrial, han ido desapareciendo y perdiendo su función. En nuestros días han sido suplantados por otros sistemas, pero sobre todo por monumentos históricos y señales arquitectónicas que consagran una nueva relación de las sociedades humanas con la memoria y un nuevo papel de la imagen visual. El crecimiento constante de lo que llamamos patrimonio histórico no es solamente consecuencia del desarrollo y del narcisismo de una sociedad del ocio, sino que podría revelar también la angustia producida por la pérdida de una competencia fundamental que conjuga la edificación, la memoria viva y el placer puramente estético. En lo que se refiere al signo arquitectónico, podemos decir que se inscribe en el marco de una cultura visual de lo inmediato, en la que la imagen se antepone como referente de lo construido, contribuyendo de este modo a la pérdida del sentimiento de familiaridad, pero también, posiblemente, a la constitución de una identidad planetaria.
El hombre y la tierra
Authors: Dardel Eric
Published: October 2023

Cuando la mirada occidental somete la tierra a un conocimiento técnico y científico a través de modelos de representación objetivos, la existencia -en libertad de espíritu- busca su íntima relación de identificación, complicidad y evasión en la tierra.