bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the status of depression and anxiety among leaders and staff in pharmacy intravenous admixture services in China
Authors: Zhang Ling-Li , Yang Chunsong , Yang Yaya , Wu Xiaofang
Published: April 2022

Background
We aimed to investigate the status of depression and anxiety among leaders and staff in pharmacy intravenous admixture services (PIVAS) and analyze influencing factors to provide a reference for improving their mental health status.
Methods
This study involved a multi-center cross-sectional survey. PIVAS leaders and staff from across China were invited to participate. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire were used to measure the status of anxiety and depression. A multivariate linear regression model was used to analyze influencing factors.
Results
In total, 137 PIVAS leaders and 501 staff were included in this study. The results showed that 43.8% (60/137) of the leaders had anxiety and 38.7% (53/137) had depression. Among staff, 47.3% (237/501) had anxiety and 46.5% (233/501) had depression. Multiple linear regression showed that for PIVAS leaders, the degree of recognition by doctors was associated with anxiety scores, whereas PIVAS charge standard, PIVAS profit and loss situation, and the degree of recognition by doctors were associated with depression scores. For PIVAS staff, satisfaction with working in PIVAS was associated with anxiety scores, and job title, working hours per day, and satisfaction with working in PIVAS were associated with depression scores.
Conclusion
Depression and anxiety are common among PIVAS leaders and staff working in hospitals in China. Hospitals should implement measures to improve the mental health of PIVAS leaders and staff.
The cytological and electrophysiological effects of silver nanoparticles on neuron-like PC12 cells
Authors: Zhang Ze-Qun , Meng Chen , Hou Kun , Wang Zhi-Gong , Huang Yan , Lü Xiao-Ying
Published: April 2022

Background
Silver nanoparticles (SNPs) are widely used in a large number of products. SNPs can cross the blood-brain barrier and are subsequently deposited continuously in the brain, causing a variety of pathological responses and diseases. As a result, the toxic effects of SNPs on the nervous system have attracted considerable attention, but the mechanism of toxicity remains unclear. Moreover, neurons have different cytological and electrophysiological properties, and their functions are highly dependent on changes in electrophysiological properties.
Results
Different concentrations of SNPs (20 nm) were prepared, and the effects of different application durations on the cell viability and electrical excitability of rat adrenal pheochromocytoma (PC12) quasi-neuronal networks were investigated. The effects of 200 µM SNPs on the neurite length, cell membrane potential (CMP) difference, intracellular Ca2+ content, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) difference, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content of networks were investigated. The results showed that 200 µM SNPs produced grade 1 cytotoxicity at 48 h of interaction, and the other concentrations of SNPs were noncytotoxic. Noncytotoxic 5 µM SNPs significantly increased the electrical excitability of PC12 quasi-neuronal networks, and noncytotoxic 100 µM SNPs led to an initial increase followed by a significant decrease in electrical excitability. While cytotoxic 200 µM SNPs significantly decreased the electrical excitability. 200 µM SNPs led to decreases in neurite length, MMP difference and ATP content and increases in CMP difference, and intracellular Ca2+ and ROS levels with increasing interaction time.
Conclusions
The results above revealed that using only cell viability to evaluate nanoparticles-induced neurotoxicity is partial. Therefore, not only cell viability but also electrophysiological properties should be considered when evaluating nanoparticles-induced neurotoxicity. The SNPs-induced cytotoxicity mainly originated from its effects on ATP content, cytoskeletal structure and ROS content. The SNPs-induced decrease in electrical excitability could be explained by a decrease in ATP content which could lead to cellular energy deficiency that opened KATP channels on the cell membrane, resulting in an increase in the CMP difference and hyperpolarization. ATP content may thus be an important indicator of both cell viability and electrical excitability of PC12 quasi-neuronal networks.
Oocytes Could Rearrange Immunoglobulin Production to Survive over Adverse Environmental Stimuli
Authors: Wang Yang , Luo Fu-Qiang , He Yu-Hao , Yang Zhi-Xia , Wang Xin , Li Cong-Rong , Cai Bei-Qi , Chen Liang-Jian , Wang Zi-Bin , Guan Yi-Chun , Zhang Cui-Lian , Zhang dong
Published: April 2022

Immunoglobulins are key humoral immune molecules produced and secreted by B lymphocytes at various stages of differentiation. No research has reported whether immunoglobulins are present in the non-proliferative female germ cells—oocytes—and whether they are functionally important for the quality, self-protection, and survival of oocytes. Herein, we found that IgG was present even in the oocytes of immunodeficient mice; the IgG-VDJ regions were highly variable between different oocytes, and H3K27Ac bound and regulated IgG promoter region. Next, IgG mRNA and protein levels increased in response to LPS, and this increment required CR2 on the oocyte membrane. Finally, we revealed three aspects of the functional relevance of oocyte IgG: first, oocytes could upregulate IgG to counteract the increased ROS level induced by CSF1; second, oocytes could upregulate IgG in response to injected virus ssRNA to maintain mitochondria integrity; third, upon bacterial infection, oocytes could secret IgG out to encompass bacteria to survive better than other somatic cells. This study reveals for the first time that the female germ cells, oocytes, can independently adjust intrinsic IgG production to survive in adverse environments.
Additive effects of litter and roots in forming soil organic carbon in forests
Authors: Wu Qiuxia , Wu Fuzhong , Zhu Jingjing , Yang Jing , Wei Xinyu , Ni Xiangyin
Published: April 2022

Plant input is an important source of soil organic carbon (SOC), but how and to what extent litter and roots interact to form SOC in various forests is not fully understood. Here, we compiled 189 paired observations from 23 studies to assess the changes in SOC concentrations after removing litter and living root inputs from different forests. We found that SOC concentrations reduced by 15.4% and 11.3% after litter and roots removal, respectively, but removing both litter and roots had an additive effect (24.8%), regardless of forest types. Our findings of the plant input removal experiments suggest that litter and roots had a similar but additive effect on forest SOC formation, although roots were more efficient than litter input. Thus, the study indicated that both efficiency and total amount of carbon input from aboveground and belowground biomass should be incorporated when evaluating the nexus between plant inputs and SOC formation.
Measurements, emission characteristics and control methods of fire effluents from tunnel asphalt pavement during fire: A review
Authors: Wang Wenzhen , Shen Aiqin , Wang Lusheng , Liu Hongchang
Published: April 2022

Tunnels are widely used in high-grade roads, especially in mountainous areas, but tunnel fire often causes serious economic loss and casualties. Among them, the fire effluents generated from asphalt pavement is one of the key factors and a significant subject worthy of further study. The main objective of this paper is to assimilate information on various aspects of asphalt mixtures emission during fire. In this paper, the fume emission of bitumen and asphalt mixture during combustion is comprehensively reviewed and summarized. Firstly, the test methods of fire effluents produced by bitumen and asphalt mixture after combustion are summarized. Secondly, the influencing factors of fume concentration and composition are determined. In addition, different methods to reduce the emission of fire effluents are compared, especially for the suppression of toxic gas emission. Finally, some reasonable suggestions are put forward to reduce the harm of hazardous gas to human and environment. This review is beneficial to comprehensively understand the fume emission behavior and the future research on smoke suppression of highway tunnel asphalt pavement during fire.
Diffractive imaging of a rotational wavepacket in nonlinear molecules
Authors: Xiong Yanwei , Wilkin Kyle , Saha Sajib Kumar , Muvva Sri Bhavya , Zhao Haoran , Centurion Martin
Published: April 2022

Imaging laser-induced rotational dynamics is an important and active field due to its applications in capturing reactions in the molecular frame and in molecular imaging. Ultrafast electron diffraction has been a powerful tool to study the dynamics of rotational wavepackets, however, studies have been limited to linear molecules due to the challenges in retrieving the probability density from the diffraction signal for nonlinear molecules. Here we show that we can directly retrieve the time-dependent rotational probability density of symmetric top molecules that were impulsively aligned by a femtosecond laser pulse. The evolving molecular alignment is probed using ultrafast electron diffraction, and the rotational wavepacket is extracted from the angle-resolved pair distribution functions. The experimental results are in good agreement with numerical simulations of the Schrodinger equation using the experimental conditions.
Coupling of the Asian monsoon and Antarctic climates on multiple timescales and implications for termination
Authors: Liang Yijia , Chen Shitao , Wang Yongjin , Zhao Kan , Yang Shaohua , Wang Zhenjun , Huang Yuzheng , Cheng Hai , Edwards R. Lawrence
Published: April 2022

Recurrent and intense climate changes during glacial periods are registered in geological records globally. A strong bipolar coupling has been revealed on the millennial timescale, while the north-south counterparts on finer timescales is less clear due to the locality of the Greenland ice core. Our high-resolution stalagmite record, which represents the East Asian summer monsoon circulation intensity, resembles the Antarctic temperature on millennial to sub-centennial timescales during the last glacial. This possibly indicates a teleconnection between monsoon and Antarctica via the Southern Ocean or the Intertropical Convergence Zone. Furthermore, monsoonal event sequence from Heinrich 4 to Dansgaard-Oeschger 8 cycle is highly analogous to that during Termination 1 and the Marine Isotope Stage 4/3 transition at trend, amplitude and internal structures. Within the context of correlative records, we suggest that the maximum ice volume and the positive feedbacks related with CO2 buildup are critical for the terminations, rather than millennial-scale events.
Large-Scale Drivers of Marine Heatwaves Revealed by Archetype Analysis
Authors: Chapman Christopher , Monselesan Didier , Risbey James , Feng Ming , Sloyan Bernadette
Published: April 2022

Extreme oceanic events, such as marine heatwaves, can have disastrous impacts on ecosystems and marine industries. Given their potential consequences, it is important to understand how broad-scale climate variability influence the probability of local extreme marine events. Here, for the first time, we employ an advanced data-mining methodology, archetype analysis, to identify large scale climate drivers and teleconnections that lead to marine extremes in certain regions. This methodology is applied to the Australasian region, where it identifies instances of anomalous sea-surface temperatures, frequently associated with marine heatwaves, as well as the broadscale oceanic and atmospheric conditions associated with those extreme events. Additionally, we use archetype analysis to assess the ability of a low-resolution climate model to accurately represent the teleconnection patterns associated with extreme oceanic temperatures, and discuss the implications for the predictability of these impactful events.
Early Diagnosis of Breast Cancer According to Age Group and Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) Pandemic: Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Hyeda Adriano , Costa Elide Sbardellotto Mariano , Kowalski Sérgio Candido
Published: April 2022

ObjectiveTo identify if the COVID-19 pandemic interfered in mammograms and breast cancer biopsy, according to age, in Brazilian public health system.MethodsThis is a retrospective population-based study of total and segmented time series, using the Joinpoint Regression Program to calculate the Monthly Percentage Change (MPC).ResultsAt the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a stationary trend in mammograms in 50 to 69 age groups and decreasing in other age groups (MPC from − 40.2% to -42.1%) for 3 months. Subsequently, there was an increasing trend in mammograms in all age groups (MPC from 31.0–38.2%), lasting 5 months, and a stationary period. As for breast biopsies, there was a decreasing trend in all age groups (MPC from − 15.0% to -23.2%), lasting from 3 to 4 months. Subsequently, there was an increasing trend from 30 to 49 years, duration of 5 months, and stationary in the other age groups, until the end of the study. In total time series, there was a decreasing trend in mammograms and an increasing trend in breast biopsies, in all age groups.ConclusionThe COVID-19 pandemic negatively interfered with the early diagnosis of breast cancer in all age groups
Lifestyle and occupational risk assessment using machine learning methods and development a web-based nomogram for prediction of bladder cancer Short title: Risk assessment and nomogram to predict bladder cancer
Authors: Shakhssalim Naser , Majd Hamid Alavi , Pahlevan-Fallahy Mohammad-Taha , Sotoodeh Kasra , Gohari Mahmood Reza , Borumandnia Nasrin
Published: April 2022

Background: Urinary bladder cancer (UBC) is one of the most disabling yet prevalent types of cancer. With its burden on the rise, UBC is becoming more prevalent each year and the numbers will not stop until we decide to make an endeavor to increase our knowledge even further and to reduce the risk factors that predispose to it. We tried to use machine learning (ML) methods to develop a risk prediction model in this study.Methods: This population-based case-control study is focused on 692 cases of bladder cancer, and 692 healthy people. The ML including Neural Network (NN), Random Forest (RF), Regression Tree (RT), Naive Bayes (NB), and Logistic Regression (LR) were applied. Area Under Curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic, precision, sensitivity, specificity, F1 and recall were used to evaluate the model performance. Finally, a dynamic web-based nomogram was constructed to calculate the probability of bladder cancer.Results: The RF (AUC=.98, precision=91.3%) and NN (AUC=.97, precision=91.5%) had the best performance and the RT (AUC=0.98, precision=89.5%) was in the next rank. Based on variable importance analysis in RF, that recurrence infection, smoking, neurogenic bladder, low diet on fruit and vegetable, can and ham using were respectively the most significant variables which effect on probability of bladder cancer.Conclusion: Based on ML findings, urinary bladder risk factors can be classified into two major groups: exogenous factors such as smoking, dietary factors, environmental risks, occupational risks, and previous medical conditions of a patient. The second group is the endogenous or intrinsic factors that include gender, age, and genetics of a person. The presented web-based nomogram can be considered as a user-friendly clinical tool to predict the probability of UBC.
Short-term efficacy of ustekinumab in patients with Crohn’s disease and intestinal stricture
Authors: Chen Yan , Wu Qiangqiang
Published: April 2022

Objective: To estimate the short-term efficacy of ustekinumab (UST) in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and intestinal stricture.Design: This retrospective case-series included patients with CD and intestinal stricture. The characteristics and disease evaluation data of the included patients, including Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI), Crohn’s disease obstructive score (CDOS), fecal calprotectin (FCP), and hypersensitive C reactive protein (Hs-CRP), were collected at baseline. The primary endpoint was a success at week 24, defined as UST continuation without other treatments (steroids, other anti-tumor necrosis factors, surgery, or endoscopic dilation); secondary endpoints were improvement of clinical evaluation and laboratory data at week 24 in the whole cohort.Results: A total 36 patients were screened, and 12 were included between July 2020 and July 2021. At week 24, 10/12 (83.3%) patients achieved success. Among these patients, 6/8 (75%) patients with symptomatic stricturing Crohn’s disease (SSCD) achieved success. In SSCD patients with successful use of UST, CDOS and CDAI were significantly improved in all patients, and FCP improved in 5/6 (83.3%) patients at week 24. Only 2 (16.7%) patients accepted anal reconstruction or endoscopic balloon dilation (DBE) at follow-up. No severe adverse events occurred during the study.Conclusions: A successful response to UST was observed in more than three-quarters of CD patients with an intestinal stricture. In addition, UST showed good efficacy and safety in SSCD.
Self-supported Films of Amburana Cearensis Bipolymer as an Alternative for Biodegradable Packaging
Authors: Eiras Carla , Pinto Railson Machado , Cunha Juliana Nadielle Barbosa , Silva José Regilmar Teixeira da , de Araújo Ricardo , Barud Hernane da Silva , Nunes Lívio César Cunha
Published: April 2022

Self-supported films, prepared from Amburana cearensis gum (GAmb), appear as an alternative for the development of biodegradable packaging as a way to minimize the impacts of non-biodegradable residue discarded in the environment. The films were produced using the casting method and the results obtained from the FTIR analysis indicated that the GAmb is mostly constituted by α-L-Arabinofuranose and β-Galactopyranose units. The films, (GAmb/Gly) produced with the addition of glycerol (Gly) at concentrations of 10–30%, presented a variation of 8.4–12.7% in moisture content and from 33–49% for solubility water, respectively. The films also showed amorphous characteristics and a transmittance below 50%, as well as a maximum elastic modulus of 8.51 Mpa. The results also showed that the complete biodegradability of the films occurred after 14 days, corroborating the hypothesis of using GAmb/Gly films as an alternative for biodegradable packaging.
Nonlinear low-velocity impact response of GRC beam with geometric imperfection under thermo-electro-mechanical loads
Authors: Zhang Wei , Guo Li-Jia , Wang Yuewu , Mao Jia-Jia , Yan Jianwei
Published: April 2022

This paper presents an investigation on thermo-electro-mechanical nonlinear low-velocity impact behaviors of the geometrically imperfect functionally graded (FG) graphene reinforced composite (GRC) beam with surface-bonded piezoelectric layers. Both uniformly distributed (UD) and FG patterns of graphene nanoplatelets (GPLs) are considered along the thickness of the GRC host beam. The effective Young’s modulus is calculated by the Halpin-Tsai model. The Poisson ratio and mass density are calculated by the rule of mixture. The modified nonlinear Hertz contact law is employed to predict the impact force between the spherical impactor and the geometrically imperfect GRC piezoelectric beam during impacting. By considering the firstorder shear deformation theory and von Kármán nonlinear displacement-strain relationship, the nonlinear governing equations are obtained by Hamilton principle and dispersed by differential quadrature (DQ) method. The Newmark- β method associated with Newton-Raphson iterative process is adopted to parametrically identify the impact force and the dynamic response of the system. The effects of geometric imperfection, weight fraction and distribution pattern of GPLs, temperature variation, thickness of piezoelectric layer and impactor’s initial velocity on the nonlinear low-velocity impact behavior of geometrically imperfect GRC beams are discussed in detail. Our results illustrate that the coupling effect of geometric imperfection and thermoelectro-mechanical load has a significant effect on the nonlinear low-velocity impact behavior of GRC beam, and GPLs distributing into the piezoelectric layers is better for reducing the impact response of geometrically imperfect GRC piezoelectric beam.
Semi-quantitative risk evaluation reveals drivers of African swine fever virus in smallholder pig farms and gaps in biosecurity, Tanzania
Authors: Fasina Folorunso O. , Mtui-Malamsha Niwael , Nonga Hezron E. , Ranga Svetlana , Sambu Rosamystica M. , Majaliwa Jerome , Kamani Enos , Okuthe Sam , Kivaria Fredrick , Bebay Charles , Penrith Mary-Louise
Published: April 2022

African swine fever (ASF) has remained persistent in Tanzania since the early 2000. Between 2020 and 2021, twelve districts in Tanzania were infected with ASF, and ≥ 4,804 pigs reportedly died directly due to the disease with disruption to livelihoods. We conducted semi-quantitative field investigations and rapid risk assessment (RRA) to understand the risk factors and drivers of ASF virus (ASFv) amplification and transmission in smallholder pig farms, and determine the gaps in biosecurity through hazard profiling, focused group discussions and experts’ opinions. Outbreaks were connected by road and aligned along the pig product value chain and reported in the northern, central and southern parts of Tanzania. The patterns of outbreaks and impacts differed among districts, but cases of ASF appeared to be self-limiting following significant mortality of pigs in farms. Movement of infected pigs, movement of contaminated pig products and fomites associated with service providers, vehicles, and equipment, as well as the inadvertent risks associated with movements of animal health practitioners, visitors and scavengers were the riskiest pathways to introduce ASFv into smallholder pig farms. Identified drivers and facilitators of risk of ASFv infection in smallholder pig farms were traders in whole pigs, middlemen, pig farmers, transporters, unauthorized animal health service providers and the traders in pork. All identified pig groups were susceptible to ASFv, particularly among shared adult boars, pregnant and lactating sows and adult female. The risk of ASF for smallholder pig farms in Tanzania remains very high based on a systematic risk classification. Majority of the farms poorly implemented biosecurity and no single farm implemented all the identified biosecurity measures. Risky practices and breach of biosecurity in the pig value chain in Tanzania are profit-driven and are extremely difficult to change. Behavioural change communication must target identified drivers of infections, attitudes and practices.
Three Novel Genes Associated with Longevity Found in European Bison
Authors: Korec Evžen , Ungrová Lenka , Hejnar Jiří , Grieblová Adéla , Zelená Kateřina
Published: April 2022

Background: Longevity-related genes have been found in mice, humans and in several other animal species. The goal of this study was to perform genetic analysis of long-lived European bisons with the aim to find genes that are associated with longevity.Results: SNPs with particular nucleotides were significantly overrepresented in long-lived European bisons in three genes: BCKDHB, FER1L6 and SERPINI2. In SERPINI2, the longevity-associated SNP localizes to an exon. In the protein coded by the SERPINI2 gene, amino acid leucine present in the reference European bisons is replaced by tryptophan in the long-lived European bisons.Conclusions: Three genes, BCKDHB, FER1L6 and SERPINI2, were proved to be associated with longevity in European bisons.
The Influence of the Biological Father’s Participation in Antenatal Genetic Group Counseling on Pregnant Females’ Scores on Tests of Vital Knowledge Relating to Pregnancy
Authors: Anansirikasem Teerawat , Kongsomboon Kittipong , Hanprasertpong Tharangrut
Published: April 2022

Background: Antenatal counseling has increased females’ awareness of preventable complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. This study was conducted to compare the ratio of pregnant women who have knowledge score improvement after prenatal genetic group counseling, with a focus on pregnant women who attend counseling with/without their partner, to identify other possible factors that influence the knowledge improvement and to evaluate the knowledge score regarding common genetic diseases such as Thalassemia and trisomy 21 and their knowledge of pregnancy care such as ultrasonographic structural screening and cesarean delivery. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted. Pregnant women who attended antenatal genetic group counseling (AGGC) were assessed for their knowledge level by using a self-questionnaire prior to and immediately after genetic group counseling. Results: 553 pregnant women were enrolled. 310 and 243 participants attended the AGGC without and with their partner, respectively. The ratio of the participants who had increased their overall knowledge score was significantly higher in the AGGC for those who were with their partner than without. The improvement was not significantly different when other clinical factors were considered. No variable apart from the AGGC with or without one’s partner was identified as influencing the improvement in overall knowledge. The median of the knowledge score regarding trisomy 21 among all the participants was lower than for the other topics and did not improve after the AGGC. Conclusion: Paternal involved in the AGGC positively influenced the pregnant females’ knowledge score when comparing the scores prior to and immediately after the AGGC.Trial registration: Srinakharinwirot University (SWUEC/E-471/2563) and Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR 20210324002)
Lattice-induced Strong Coupling in Symmetry and Asymmetry Split-ring Metamaterial Arrays
Authors: Ma Guohong , Peng Jun , Zhang Wenjie , Suo Peng , Lin Xian , Yan Xiaona
Published: April 2022

The intrinsic link between surface plasmon modes (eigenmodes) and lattice mode in subwavelength periodic structures is investigated based on the split-ring metamaterial structure. The study shows that the strong coupling between the eigenmodes and the lattice modes can be achieved by appropriately adjusting the period of the metamaterial structure, and the emergence of new modes at low frequencies is observed, resulting in a lower spectral loss of a single hybrid resonance and an increase in its Q-factor up to 110. In addition, an asymmetric double split-ring structure is proposed, and the Fano resonance is excited, giving rise to a spectral line with three resonance valleys. The coupled harmonic oscillator model is used to interpret the underlying coupling mechanism in lattice-induced transparent systems, which agrees well with our simulation results. This strong coupling scheme between the lattice and the mixed modes of the metamaterial unit provides a new avenue to modulate lattice-induced transparency, high-Q resonance, and strong-field confinement, which may find applications in the design of ultrasensitive sensors, slow-light devices, as well as multiple frequency absorbers and other fields.
Growth of medical students' future perspectives through field trip to a disaster area: a qualitative study using retrospective group interview
Authors: Hidaka Tomoo , Endo Shota , Kasuga Hideaki , Masuishi Yusuke , Kakamu Takeyasu , Fukushima Tetsuhito
Published: April 2022

Background: Field trips to disaster-affected areas (FTDAs) with no specific purpose, such as medical cooperation, are widely undertaken in medical education. Although the educational effects of fieldwork where students may be assigned duties such as medical collaboration or support have been already revealed, those of these FTDAs remain unclear. The present study aimed to clarify what medical students gain from FTDAs.Methods: Subjects were five medical students who participated in an FTDA at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) in Japan, at which hydrogen explosions occurred following the Great East Japan Earthquake, causing severe radiation contamination, to learn about the health concerns of restoration workers. The students went in 2017, and a retrospective group interview was conducted approximately two years later. Narratives about what they gained from the FTDA were extracted using open coding and interpreted.Results: The following four main themes were identified: “Spirit of scientific inquiry,” which represents the knowledge and mindset required to read and examine the prevailing notions and government announcements critically; “Foundation for lifelong education and personal growth,” which represents that the experience of the FTDA was associated with recognising the importance of lifelong learning; “Diverse professionalism,” which suggests that the students gained insights into essential elements of becoming a medical doctor, and various perspectives on their future career choices; and “Importance of practicing medicine in the community setting,” which represents students’ recognition that, in the future, they may work in a region surrounding or near the FDNPP and that they may feel compelled to contribute to the region.Conclusions: The students gained a broader perspective on their future jobs and careers through the FTDA. Medical educators should be aware of the educational benefits of FTDAs and employ them in their educational practices. Note that FTDA sites are not limited to the FDNPP. If medical educators can explain the importance of FTDAs to the residents of a disaster site and gain their understanding, various disaster-affected areas can be potential locations. Medical educators should understand the educational effects of FTDAs on students’ growth and effectively install FTDAs in their educational practices.
The cortisol awakening response reflects fatigue caused by high-intensity resistance exercise
Authors: Ogasawara Yui , Yoneyama Takuma , Ikuji Takeaki , Tsuchiya Hironobu , Sugo Takayuki
Published: April 2022

Background
The cortisol awakening response (CAR) reflects the physical adaptation to exercise and training loads and has been reported the response especially by high-intensity exercise. However, few studies have examined the effects of resistance exercise. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of high-intensity resistance exercise on the CAR.
Methods
Thirteen healthy male university students performed 1 repetition maximum (1 RM) tests and an experimental session for 4 consecutive days: sedentary control sessions (Day 1 and 2), high-intensity resistance exercise (bench press) session at 75% of 1 RM (HIRE; Day 3), and recovery session (Day 4). Saliva samples for Day 1–3 were collected: 1) before and 2) immediately after the session, 3) 10 min, 4) 20 min, and 5) 30 min into the recovery period from each session, 6) 9 pm, and 7) 11 pm at night after the session, and 8) immediately after awakening and 9) 15 min and 10) 30 min post-awakening the day after the session (Sampling on Day 4 only upon awakening).
Results
The results showed that the HIRE session did not change the acute cortisol levels; however, the CAR showed significantly different responses in those who increased (n = 7; Responders) and those who did not increase (n = 6; non-Responders). In addition, a significant negative correlation was found between the rate of increase in area under the curve for the whole of CAR (AUCg) and the amount of change of physical fatigue from control days (Day 1 and 2) to Day 3 and 4 (r = − .478, p = .014).
Conclusions
These results suggest that both increased and no increased CAR may result from physical adaptation and maladaptation to the HIRE session. Therefore, CAR has the potential to assess the physical adaptation to the loads of local resistance exercise as well, which may help to plan future training loads and recovery.
Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia as a prognostic factor in patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer
Authors: Miyagi Takehiro , Tsuji Daiki , Kawasakai Yohei , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Tanaka Rei , Nakao Masahiko , Nakagaki Shigeru , Hayashi Toshinobu , Ayuhara Hideaki , Harada Tomohiko , Tamaki Shinya , Maeda Akimitsu , Ohashi Yasukata , Arakawa Yuichiro , Fujita Yukiyoshi , Yamamoto Keisuke , Miyamoto Yasunori , Yano Takuya , Itoh Kunihiko
Published: April 2022

Chemotherapy-induced neutropenia (CIN) is a dose-limiting factor for cytotoxic chemotherapy, but recently, it was suggested that CIN contributes to prolonged survival. In this study, we examined the association between severe CIN and survival, and determined whether CIN affected survival in patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ED-SCLC).The medical records from 214 patients with ED-SCLC treated with etoposide or irinotecan in combination with cisplatin (EP/IP) between 2012 and 2016 were collected and retrospectively analyzed. Landmark analysis was performed at the end of cycle 4 and the relationship between severe CIN and survival was determined by a log-rank test. In addition, a multivariate analysis using COX proportional hazard model was performed to identify independent predictive factors. The Landmark analysis included 102 patients in the IP-group and 47 patients in the EP-group. No significant difference was found between grade 0–3 and grade 4 neutropenia and overall survival (OS) in the EP-group. (P = 0.57). Contrariwise, for the IP patients, the median OS was 444 days for grade 0–3 and 633 days for grade 4 neutropenia, which was significantly longer for patients who developed grade 4 neutropenia (P = 0.03). Multivariate analysis adjusted for potential factors revealed that the development of grade 4 CIN was identified as a significant predictor of longer OS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.46; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.26–0.81, P = 0.008). The results indicated that the development of severe CIN with IP therapy is associated with prolonged OS.
Relationship between seminal HIV-1 RNA shedding and genital schistosomiasis in HIV-positive men receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) along the south shoreline of Lake Malawi: A prospective pilot study
Authors: Kayuni Sekeleghe A. , Abdullahi Adam , Alharbi Mohammad H. , Makaula Peter , Lampiao Fanuel , Juziwelo Lazarus , LaCourse E. James , Kumwenda Johnstone J. , Leutscher Peter D.C. , Geretti Anna Maria , Stothard J. Russell
Published: April 2022

Background: Male Genital Schistosomiasis (MGS) is hypothesized to increase seminal shedding of HIV-1 RNA. We aimed to assess the impact of MGS on genital HIV-1 RNA shedding by longitudinally measuring HIV-1 RNA levels in men established on long-term ART comparing those with and without a diagnosis of MGS. Methods: Following optimisation of the GeneXpert® HIV-1 RNA assay for use with seminal fluid, we analysed 76 paired plasma and semen samples collected from 31 men over 12 months, comprising 15 with and 16 subjects without MGS. Study visits occurred at 0, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. A diagnosis of schistosomiasis was based on Schistosoma positivity using eggs by microscopy of filtrated urine, semen, seminal sediment, POC-CCA test or by testing PCR of seminal sediment or urine at one or more time points. MGS was diagnosed by egg positivity on semen microscopy or PCR of seminal sediment. All subjects were blindly treated with a single dose of praziquantel at each study visit.Results: Across the entire study population, HIV-1 RNA was detected in 7/76 (9.2%) seminal samples and 29/76 (38.2%) plasma samples. Among all participants, 5/31 (16.1%) showed HIV-1 RNA detection in one or more seminal samples, with 3/5 (60%) showing HIV-1 RNA detection in semen only with levels up to 400 copies/ml. The three subjects were in the MGS positive group. The two subjects showing HIV-1 RNA in seminal fluid from the MGS negative group also had concomitant HIV-1 RNA detection in plasma. Conclusion: We found no notable difference in the pattern of genital shedding in the seminal compartment of HIV-1 infected men established on ART with and without a diagnosis for MGS following treatment with praziquantel.
Curtobacterium allii sp. nov., the actinobacterial pathogen causing onion bulb rot
Authors: Khanal Manzeal , Bhatta Bed Prakash , Timilsina Sujan , Ghimire Sudeep , Cochran Kimberly , Malla Subas
Published: April 2022

A Gram positive, aerobic, and non-spore-forming bacterial strain, 20TX0166T, was isolated from a diseased onion bulb in Texas, USA. Upon testing its pathogenicity on onion bulb, it produced pathogenic response which makes it first species of pathogen belonging to the phylum actinobacteria detected in onion. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that the strain belonged to the genus Curtobacterium and was most similar to Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens LMG 3645T (100%), C. pusillum DSM 20527T (99.5%), and C. oceanosedimentum ATCC 31317T (99.5%). The orthologous ANI (orthoANIu), ANI based on blast (ANIb), and dDDH values between the novel strain and the closest relative, C. flaccumfaciens LMG 3645T, were 95.7%, 95.4%, and 63.3%, respectively. These values were below the recommended species cut-off threshold of 96% (ANI) and 70% (dDDH), suggesting the strain may be a novel species. The estimated genome size of the novel species was 3.98 Mbp with a G + C content of 70.8%. Physiologic and phenotypic characters of this novel strain were also unique when compared with the closely related species. The major cellular fatty acids of this strain were C15:0 anteiso and C17:0 anteiso. Using a polyphasic approach based on phenotypic and genotypic analyses, strain 20TX0166T represents a novel species of the genus Curtobacterium, and the name Curtobacterium allii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 20TX0166T (= LMG 32517T, =CIP112023T, =NCIMB 15427T).
DIA-based Proteomics Analysis of Serum-derived Exosomal Proteins as Potential Candidate Biomarkers for Intrahepatic Cholestasis in Pregnancy
Authors: Nie Liju , Xin Siming , Zheng Jiusheng , Luo Yong , Zou Yang , Liu Xianxian , Chen Huayan , Lei Xiaozhen , Zeng Xiaoming , Lai Hua
Published: April 2022

Background Data-independent acquisition (DIA) is one of the most powerful and reproducible proteomic technologies for large-scale digital qualitative and quantitative research. The aim of this study was to use proteomic methodologies for the identification of biomarkers that are over- or underexpressed in women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) compared with controls and discover a potential biomarker panel for ICP detection.Methods The participants included 11 ICP patients and 11 healthy pregnant women as controls. The clinical characteristic data and the laboratory biochemical data were collected at the time of recruitment. Then, a data-independent acquisition (DIA)-based proteomics approach was used to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in serum exosomes between ICP patients and controls. Finally, bioinformatics analysis was used to identify the relevant processes in which these DEPs were involved. Results The proteomics results showed that there were 162 DEPs in serum exosomes between pregnant women with ICP and healthy pregnant women, of which 106 were upregulated and 56 were downregulated in ICP. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that the identified proteins were functionally related to specific cell processes including apoptosis, lipid metabolism, immune response and cell proliferation, and metabolic disorders, suggesting that these may be primary causative factors in ICP pathogenesis. Meanwhile, complement and coagulation cascades may be closely related to the development of ICP. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis showed that the area under the curve values of Elongation factor 1-alpha 1, Beta-2-glycoprotein I, Zinc finger protein 238, CP protein and Ficolin-3 were all approximately 0.9, indicating the promising diagnostic value of these proteins.Conclusions This preliminary work provides a better understanding of the proteomic alterations in the serum exosomes of pregnant women with ICP and may provide new insights into ICP pathophysiology and potential novel treatment targets for this disease. However, future studies of the systemic expression of these candidate biomarkers and their exact roles in ICP will be essential for conformation of this hypothesis.
Squamous cell carcinoma transformed from the prostatic adenocarcinoma with hormonotherapy: a case report and literature review
Authors: Song Shizhang , Jiang Bo , Hou Sichuan , Huang Xingang , Li Chunmei , Liu Zhijun
Published: April 2022

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the prostate is a very rare and highly aggressive tumor, which is ineffective to multiple treatments and prone to metastasis, and has a worse prognosis than adenocarcinoma of the prostate. However, a transformation of prostatic adenocarcinoma into squamous cell carcinoma is rarer and may occur after hormonotherapy or radiotherapy. Hitherto, there are few cases in the world about the transformation from adenocarcinoma into squamous cell carcinoma after treatment. To our knowledge, our case is the first reported in China.Case presentation: A 67-year-old man with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the prostate for 2 years was not suitable for radical prostatectomy due to the disease classified T4N1M1. Hormonotherapy using Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LHRH) analog (leuprorelin) and antiandrogen agent (bicalutamide) was started, and serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level gradually decreased to a nadir of 0.04ng/ml. After treatment of 2 years, he complained of worsening of lower urinary tract symptoms(LUTS), and then he underwent transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Histological analysis revealed there were poorly differentiated keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma in the most of cancer tissue. As of now, the patient has undergone docetaxel treatment, containing 2 times of systemic chemotherapy. The patient's general condition is currently good.Conclusions: Prostatic adenocarcinoma transformed into squamous cell carcinoma after hormonotherapy is very rare. However, the serum PSA of this tumor is probably normal, PSA and the Gleason grading system are of limited value in the diagnosis of SCC, keratinization of histopathological examination enables its diagnosis. The transformation is subclinical. Hence, how to identify prostatic adenocarcinoma or SCC in prostate tissue needs a further investigation.
The evaluation of honey bee venom potential therapeutic value on gonadotropin-induced ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome model rats
Authors: Nabiuni Mohammad , Karimzadeh Latifeh
Published: April 2022

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) mostly occurs in undergoing gonadotropin therapy women sensitive to endogenous gonadotropins. Honey bee venom (HBV) contains biologically active components that has pharmaceutical properties. This study was designed to assess the possibility of HBV application as an anti-inflammatory and anti-angiopathy therapeutic agent to suppress main inflammatory mediators in OHSS. OHSS induced by Pregnant Mare’s Serum Gonadotropin) PMSG) and hCG intraperitoneal in immature female Wistar rats. OHSS induction followed by intraperitoneal injection of HBV and metformin for 10 consecutive days;. At the end of the treatment period, metabolic parameters as well as ovarian expression of IL-6, COX2, and VEGF proteins were evaluated. This data showed that the OHSS+HBV group had a significant reduction in peritoneal and ovarian vascular permeability compared to the OHSS group. The ovarian expression of COX2, IL-6 and VEGF proteins in group OHSS+HBV.. The results of this study showed that HBV can affect the inflammatory feature of OHSS by reducing the angiogenesis factors.
LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 enhances the migration and invasion ability of breast cancer cells through the Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Tao Bijun , Wu Yueling , Liu Jiande , Jia Zhe , Xiong Zhenquan , Zhang Lihua , Zhang Wanting , Yang Jing , Wang Yuzhou
Published: April 2022

Objective
To explore the expression, biological function, and mechanism of action of the LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 in breast cancer.
Methods
The expression of LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 was analyzed in the TCGA database using bioinformatics analysis. Moreover, the relative expression of LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 was measured in the human normal mammary epithelial cell line (MCF10A) and three breast cancer cell lines (BT-549, MDA-MB-231, and MCF-7). After siRNA knockdown of FOXD3-AS1 expression in BT-549, MDA-MB-231 cells, alterations in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptotic capacity were determined by CCK-8, scratch assay, transwell assay, and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining, respectively. Furthermore, changes in the level of the β-Catenin protein were detected using western blot.
Results
TCGA database analysis results relative to adjacent tissues revealed that the expression of LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 was markedly elevated in breast cancer tissues. Besides, results of real-time PCR established that the relative expression of FOXD3-AS1 was significantly higher in the breast cancer cell lines (BT-549, MDA-MB-231, and MCF-7) than in the normal human mammary epithelial cell line (MCF10A) (P < 0.0001). Inhibition of FOXD3-AS1 expression by siRNA significantly inhibited the wound healing ability, migration and invasion ability of BT-549 and MDA-MB-231 cells. However, there was no difference in proliferation and apoptosis. The western blot results showed that inhibition of FOXD3-AS1 expression by siRNA significantly inhibited the level of the β-Catenin protein in BT-549 and MDA-MB-231 cells.
Conclusion
The abnormally high expression of LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 in breast cancer may be related to disease progression. LncRNA FOXD3-AS1 can significantly enhance the migration and invasion ability of breast cancer cells, and its mechanism of action may be related to the Wnt/ β-Catenin signaling pathway.
Evaluation of the Predictive Value of Echocardiography Parameters for Heart Transplant Rejection: A Tissue Doppler Imaging Study
Authors: Keihanian Faeze , Ghaderi Fereshteh , Poorzand Hoorak , Vakilian Farveh , Alimi Hedieh , Bigdelu Laila , Fazlinezhad Afsoon , Rafighdoost Amirhossein
Published: April 2022

Background: The rate of heart transplantation is increasing worldwide. Due to the drawbacks of endomyocardial biopsy (EMB), various non-invasive methods have been suggested to assess rejection. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of echocardiographic parameters to determine heart transplant rejection in a sample of Iranian patients. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study on heart transplant patients with available EMB results. All patients underwent echocardiography at the same day of EMB and prior to biopsy. The association between echocardiographic parameters and rejection was assessed using binary logistic regression. Results: A total of 67 patients (50, 74.6% male and 17, 25.4% female) with the mean age of 39.20 ± 11.39 years entered this study. Heart transplant rejection was observed in 22 (32.8%) patients. There was only a significant difference in mitral inflow early diastolic flow (E) and septal time to peak systolic velocity in ejection phase (septal Ts) between rejection and non-rejection groups. Logistic regression revealed a significant association between rejection and septal Ts (p=0.048, OR=0.931) and E velocity (p=0.022, OR=78.069). Based on ROC curve, the area under the curve for septal Ts and E were 81.9% and 68.6%. Moreover, the sensitivity and specificity for septal Ts and E in detection of rejection were 75%, 69% and 68%, 61%, respectively. Conclusion: Septal Ts could be used as a good echocardiographic parameter for predicting rejection in heart recipient patients.