bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Ferrochrome Slag Co-Binder on Mechanical Behaviour of Fly Ash Geopolymer Mortars
Authors: Magugu Kwandiwe , Ekolu Stephen O. , Naghizadeh Abdolhossein , Quainoo Harry
Published: March 2024

An experimental study was conducted to investigate the mechanical properties of fly ash geopolymer binder system containing 0% to 30% ferrochrome slag. Paste and mortar samples were prepared using a mixture of sodium silicate (SS) and sodium hydroxide (SH), as the alkali – activator solution made at varied SS/SH ratio of 1.5 to 2.3, along with varied sodium hydroxide concentration ranging from 10.7 to 15.2 M. The ratio of alkali – activator to raw aluminosilicate material, was kept constant at 0.50, 0.52 or 0.54. Paste or mortar cubes of 50 mm size were cast and cured at 23, 40, 60 or 80 °C for compressive strength testing, while prisms of 25 × 25 × 285 mm size were prepared for drying shrinkage monitoring. Also measured were workability, density, water absorption and pore volume. Microanalytical studies were done using scanning electron microscopy, X – ray diffraction analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was found that fly ash geopolymer mortars containing 10% ferrochrome slag and cured at normal temperature gave the optimal compressive strength. There was significant increase in drying shrinkage of mortars, as the content of ferrochrome slag increased, but overall values were within normal range. Keywords: Fly ash geopolymer, Compressive strength, Ferrochrome slag, Drying shrinkage.
Disruptions and Adaptations: Covid-19's Impact on Textile Supply Chain Management
Authors: Rezaei-Arangdad Shaghayegh , Godfrey A. Blanton
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the textile industry's supply chain management leading to unprecedented disruptions in global trade and manufacturing operations. This paper presents an overview of the challenges faced by the textile industry during the pandemic and how supply chain management strategies are being restructured to mitigate risks and ensure business continuity. The pandemic highlighted the need for greater visibility and transparency in supply chains as well as the importance of diversification of suppliers and production facilities. Many new challenges in data quality were also exposed. This paper discusses the implications of these changes for the future of the textile industry and new thinking needed in managing supply chains.
Use of Rosa Canina Extractions for Ecofriendly Textile Finishing
Authors: Atakan Raziye , Diaz-García Pablo , Gisbert-Payá Jaime , Bonet-Aracil Marilés
Published: March 2024

Phenolic components, flavonoids, tannins and vitamins (A, C, E) in the content of Rosa Canina fruits provide antimicrobial and antioxidant activity and they already have many uses such as food and medicine industry. Despite the fact that Rosa Canina extracts contain many beneficial and active components, they have not been yet studied as finishing agents for textiles. This paper represents the investigation of potential use of these extractions as natural functional agents for fabrics. Firstly, Rosa Canina extractions were prepared using different solvents (distilled water, ethanol and methanol) by ultrasound-assisted extraction. Pre-treatment process with chitosan was carried out via pad-dry-cure method using cotton fabrics. Then, these extractions were applied to undyed and pre-treated cotton fabrics via exhaustion method. Extractions and waste solutions of textile finishing process were examined by Ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. In addition, the chemical structure of the undyed and treated fabrics was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Finally, treated fabrics were examined in terms of UV protection properties by UPF measurements. UV-Vis results showed that maximum amount of active compounds was observed on Rosa Canina extraction with water. According to UPF values, pre-treatment with chitosan definitely have a positive effect on UV protection of cotton fabrics and Rosa Canina extract treatments lead also an extra increase on UPF values of cotton fabrics. Among all treated fabrics in the study, chitosan-Rosa Canina water treated fabrics showed the highest UPF value.
A Standard Terminology for the Description of Fibrous Microplastics from Textiles
Authors: Zhang Yi , Haque Abu Naser Md Ahsanul , Ranjbar Shervin , Tester David , Naebe Maryam
Published: March 2024

Microplastics, fragments of plastics from regular use, are causing severe environmental hazards and health dangers. They could be ingested by marine animals and further enter the human food chain. Research shows that the majority of the microplastics (35%) released in the environment are from textiles. Therefore, there is an increasing interest in the studies of microplastics released from textiles to control the pollution from their origin. To understand the microplastics released from textiles, the properties of microplastics are important. However, the definition of microplastics is still confusing as most of the studies consider microplastics to have a size of < 5 mm, as defined by Arthur (2009). But microplastics from textiles are mainly in the form of fibre, which is shape dependent. In textiles, microfibre has its definition with diameters measuring < 10 µm. The difference between the two definitions produces confusion and makes it hard to compare results within the literature. Although some researchers proposed terms, such as ‘fibrous microplastics’, ‘fibre fragments’ or ‘fibre shedding’, there is no international consent on the fibre-shaped microplastics till now. This paper endeavours to unite the current terms used for microplastics or microfibre from textile inspection and provide a new definition of fibre-shaped microplastics to avoid further confusion.
Lightness and Hue Dependencies of Color Difference Thresholds in Textiles under High-Illuminance Conditions
Authors: Chae Youngjoo , Moon Sungwoo
Published: March 2024

In this study, the color difference thresholds of the human eye for textiles in a wide range of colors under high-illuminance conditions were examined. As the high-illuminance conditions, 2856 K-2000 lux and 6504 K-2000 lux, which are in the range of illumination conditions used in spaces that highlight products such as show windows, were used. It was observed that people cannot generally perceive color differences in textiles smaller than 4.29 ΔE*ab. Also, the color difference threshold varied depending on the color center and lightness of the textiles observed. Color differences in red and blue colored textiles were easier to be perceived than other colored textiles, while those in yellow colored textiles were the hardest to be perceived. It was also found that people are generally better able to discriminate colors between dark textiles than between light textiles. Meanwhile, the correlated color temperature of the illuminant, that is, whether it was a warm-white (2856 K) illuminant or a cool-white (6504 K) illuminant, did not significantly affect people’s perception of color differences in textiles under high illuminance conditions.
Impact of Assorted Temperature on Yield and Surface Morphology of Multiple Layers of Carbon Nanotubes by Spurt Pyrolysis Techniques
Authors: Kumar N. Mathan , Paulsingarayar S. , Nagaraja S. , Kalaiselvan S.
Published: March 2024

Nanoscale carbon tubes (also referred as CNTs) along with other nanostructures made from carbon could keep you amused as you waiting for your chance to participate in this nanotechnology. Research on carbon nanotubes has attracted an enormous amount of focus from researchers across the world for the significant function that it could have in the growing field of nanotechnology. The MLCNTs were made using these temperatures as the operational parameters using a fatty acid methyl ester formed from peanut oil as a precursor at a flow rate of 20 mL per hour in an environment comprised of argon. The intention of this research is to examine a usual green originator for the production of multiple layer carbon nanotubes (MLCNTs) using the methyl ester of a fatty acid of peanut oil at temperature that range from 725°C to 875°C with intervals of 75°C on Fe-Co assisted on Silica within an atmosphere of argon. The investigation will be concentrated on the production of MLCNTs on Fe-Co assisted on Silica. The as-grown carbon nanomaterials have been studied using SEM, HRTEM, XRD, and Raman spectroscopic research. We observed that the yield and diameter of the as-grown MLCNTs were not the same across the entire board for temperatures. The crystalline temperature of the CNTs climbed from 725 degrees Celsius to 800 degrees Celsius initially, and eventually it dropped from 800 degrees Celsius to 875 degrees Celsius. The temperature at which MLCNTs are created may have a bearing on the level of graphitization that they'll show.
The Development of a Base Layer for a Sensorimotor Countermeasure Skinsuit: Garment Comfort and Mobility
Authors: Bunford Ruth , MacRae Braid , Waldie James , Padhye Rajiv
Published: March 2024

When an astronaut transitions out of the weightless environment of space (e.g., landing on Earth, Mars, or the Moon), they can experience balance and co-ordination issues due to sensorimotor dysfunction. This paper details the development of the base layer garment for a Sensorimotor Countermeasure Skinsuit (SMCS), and test ideas to improve comfort and mobility through considered patternmaking techniques. A Version 1 (V1) SMCS base layer was made-to-measure for one participant. The garment was assessed for comfort and mobility through a series of tests: sit and reach (S&R), active range-of-motion (ROM) joint angles, and timed up and go (TU&G), etc. The SMCS V1 caused a restriction to mobility, and scored high discomfort ratings, when compared to a baseline of loose gym clothing. A Version 2 (V2) SMCS base layer was developed with an objective of improving upon the discomfort and mobility ratings. The SMCS V2 base layer garment was assessed and was found to have improved discomfort ratings (= ‘Minor discomfort if worn all day’) when compared to the SMCS V1 (≥ ‘Too uncomfortable to wear all day’). The SMCS V2 base layer garment was found to have improved mobility during S&R tests and TU&G tests when compared to the results from SMCS V1. The SMCS V2 base layer garment was also found to have improved active ROM during shoulder extension, shoulder abduction, hip flexion, and knee flexion, when compared to the SMCS V1. However, active ROM decreased during hip-extension and hip-abduction.The results of this study can be used to advance the design of compression garments that are used within the sports and medical industries.
Determinants of Productivity and Problems Associated With Betel Leaf Cultivation in Sylhet Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Upoma R. H. , Mazumder M. S. J. , Monshi M. H. , Mouri M. H. , Alam M.
Published: March 2024

The study aimed at evaluating the determinants of productivity of betel leaf cultivation among the farmers of two districts namely Sylhet and Moulvibazar administered under Sylhet division, Bangladesh. A total of 80 respondents were selected as the sample using multistage random sampling technique for achieving objectives of the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire during the month of March, 2020. Based on the objective’s descriptive statistics, ANCOVA and stepwise regression model were employed to analyze the data. The study found that, most of the farmers of betel leaf were followed their indigenous knowledge and technology to cultivate betel leaf. ANCOVA and stepwise regression model were employed to identify the factors as well as their impact on betel leaf production. The study identified the factors that significantly influenced the productivity of betel leaf farming i.e. the involvement of marketing agreement, access to training, access to irrigation, amount of cow dung applied and land area under betel leaf cultivation. The study also confronted some problems associated with the betel leaf cultivation like excess rainfall during peak season, insufficiency of irrigation water, disease attacks and low price of betel leaf. Therefore, this study provide essential information that can be used by the growers, scientists, exporters, policy makers to increase the productivity of betel leaf cultivation in the future. This study will build a foundation for further research based on the present background.
Persistence of a Skewed Repertoire of NK Cells in People with HIV-1 on Long-Term Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Anderko Renee R , DePuyt Allison E , Bronson Rhianna , Bullotta Arlene C , Aga Evgenia , Bosch Ronald J , Jones R Brad , Eron Joseph J , Mellors John W , Gandhi Rajesh T , McMahon Deborah K , Macatangay Bernard J , Rinaldo Charles R , Mailliard Robbie B
Published: March 2024

HIV-1 infection greatly alters the NK cell phenotypic and functional repertoire. This is highlighted by the expansion of a rare population of FcRγ– NK cells exhibiting characteristics of traditional immunologic memory in people with HIV (PWH). Although current antiretroviral therapy (ART) effectively controls HIV-1 viremia and disease progression, its impact on HIV-1–associated NK cell abnormalities remains unclear. To address this, we performed a longitudinal analysis detailing conventional and memory-like NK cell characteristics in n = 60 PWH during the first 4 y of ART. Throughout this regimen, a skewed repertoire of cytokine unresponsive FcRγ– memory-like NK cells persisted and accompanied an overall increase in NK surface expression of CD57 and KLRG1, suggestive of progression toward immune senescence. These traits were linked to elevated serum inflammatory biomarkers and increasing Ab titers to human CMV, with human CMV viremia detected in approximately one-third of PWH at years 1–4 of ART. Interestingly, 40% of PWH displayed atypical NK cell subsets, representing intermediate stages of NK-poiesis based on single-cell multiomic trajectory analysis. Our findings indicate that NK cell irregularities persist in PWH despite long-term ART, underscoring the need to better understand the causative mechanisms that prevent full restoration of immune health in PWH.
Traumatic perinatal events and educational needs of labor and delivery room nurses in Korea: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Lee Nagyeong , Lee Gunjeong
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The present study investigated experiences of traumatic perinatal events, the provision of related education, and educational needs of nurses working in the labor and delivery room (LDR).Methods: Nurses working in the LDRs of six institutions and two nurse portal sites were invited to participate in the survey, delivered on paper or online. The data were collected from October 1 to November 25, 2022. Data from 129 nurses were analyzed using frequency, the chi-square test, the Fisher exact test, the t-test, and analysis of variance.Results: Virtually all participants (98.6%) reported having experienced at least one traumatic perinatal event (dystocia, postpartum hemorrhage, neonatal congenital anomalies, severe maternal or neonatal injury, stillbirth, and maternal or neonatal death) while working in the LDR. The most shocking traumatic perinatal event experienced was the maternal or neonatal death (40.3%), but 24.8% of participants did not recall ever receiving education on the topic. About 63% of participants experienced traumatic perinatal events within a year of working in the LDR. The average score for education needs regarding traumatic perinatal events was 3.67±0.37 out of 4, and participants preferred simulation education as the most effective educational method.Conclusion: Since most of the participants had experienced various traumatic perinatal events in the early stages of working in the LDR and expressed a high level of need for education on traumatic perinatal events, it is necessary to provide more effective stimulation education programs in the early period of work in the LDR.
Do age, gender, and subjective health-related factors influence health-related life satisfaction in people with disabilities who are physically active?: a secondary analysis
Authors: Cho Hyunseok , Ahn Sukhee
Published: March 2024

Purpose: This study explored the factors influencing the health-related life satisfaction of people with disabilities who engaged in physical activity, by age and gender.Methods: A secondary analysis was conducted of the 2020 Third Disability and Life Dynamics Panel (2021). The participants were 2,796 people who performed regular physical activity at least once a week. The variables selected were disability-related factors (degree of disability, multiple disabilities, and type of disability), sociodemographic factors (age, gender, living alone, and mean monthly family income), and health-related factors (amount of physical activity, self-esteem, depression, chronic disease, subjective health, and health-related life satisfaction). Descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, the t-test, two-way analysis of variance, and multiple regression analysis were conducted.Results: In total, 58.0% of participants were male, and 42.0% were female. For age groups, 14.4% were children/adolescents (0–19 years), 42.6% were adults (20–59 years), and 43.0% were seniors (≥60 years). The mean score for health-related life satisfaction was 5.0±2.15 out of 10. Adults and seniors whose level of physical activity met or exceeded recommendations had higher subjective health. Moreover, men had better subjective health than women in seniors. Health-related life satisfaction was higher among those who had higher self-esteem, were not depressed, did not have chronic diseases, and had better subjective health.Conclusion: Gender significantly influenced health-related life satisfaction in children/ adolescents and seniors. Disability-related factors were significant in adults, and health-related factors were significant in all age groups. Therefore, these factors should be considered when designing interventions to promote subjective health and health-related life satisfaction of people with disabilities.
Learning with our peers: peer-led versus instructor-led debriefing for simulated crises, a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jaffrelot Morgan , Boet Sylvain , Floch Yolande , Garg Nitan , Dubois Daniel , Laparra Violaine , Touffet Lionel , Bould M. Dylan
Published: March 2024

Background: Although peer-assisted learning is known to be effective for reciprocal learning in medical education, it has been understudied in simulation. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of peer-led compared to instructor-led debriefing for non-technical skill development in simulated crisis scenarios.Methods: Sixty-one undergraduate medical students were randomized into the control group (instructor-led debriefing) or an intervention group (peer debriefer or peer debriefee group). After the pre-test simulation, the participants underwent two more simulation scenarios, each followed by a debriefing session. After the second debriefing session, the participants underwent an immediate post-test simulation on the same day and a retention post-test simulation two months later. Non-technical skills for the pre-test, immediate post-test, and retention tests were assessed by two blinded raters using the Ottawa Global Rating Scale (OGRS).Results: The participants’ non-technical skill performance significantly improved in all groups from the pre-test to the immediate post-test, with changes in the OGRS scores of 15.0 (95% CI [11.4, 18.7]) in the instructor-led group, 15.3 (11.5, 19.0) in the peer-debriefer group, and 17.6 (13.9, 21.4) in the peer-debriefee group. No significant differences in performance were found, after adjusting for the year of medical school training, among debriefing modalities (P = 0.147) or between the immediate post-test and retention test (P = 0.358).Conclusions: Peer-led debriefing was as effective as instructor-led debriefing at improving undergraduate medical students’ non-technical skill performance in simulated crisis situations. Peer debriefers also improved their simulated clinical skills. The peer debriefing model is a feasible alternative to the traditional, costlier instructor model.
Th17/Treg balance and macrophage polarization ratio in lower extremity arteriosclerosis obliterans
Authors: Li Zhen-Zhen , Liu Min , He Xiong-Hui , Liu Zhen-Dong , Xiao Zhan-Xiang , Qian Hao , Qi You-Fei , Wang Cun-Chuan
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To explore the balance of peripheral blood T helper 17 cells/regulatory T cell (Th17/Treg) ratio and the polarization ratio of M1 and M2 macrophages in lower extremity arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO).

Methods:

A rat model of lower extremity ASO was established, and blood samples from patients with lower extremity ASO before and after surgery were obtained. ELISA was used to detect interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-10, and IL-17. Real-time RCR and Western blot analyses were used to detect Foxp3, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-17 expression. Moreover, flow cytometry was applied to detect the Th17/Treg ratio and M1/M2 ratio.

Results:

Compared with the control group, the iliac artery wall of ASO rats showed significant hyperplasia, and the concentrations of cholesterol and triglyceride were significantly increased (P<0.01), indicating the successful establishment of ASO. Moreover, the levels of IL-6 and IL-17 in ASO rats were pronouncedly increased (P<0.05), while the IL-10 level was significantly decreased (P<0.05). In addition to increased IL-6 and IL-17 levels, the mRNA and protein levels of Foxp3 and IL-10 in ASO rats were significantly decreased compared with the control group. The Th17/Treg and M1/M2 ratios in the ASO group were markedly increased (P<0.05). These alternations were also observed in ASO patients. After endovascular surgery (such as percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and arterial stenting), all these changes were significantly improved (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

The Th17/Treg and M1/M2 ratios were significantly increased in ASO, and surgery can effectively improve the balance of Th17/Treg, and reduce the ratio of M1/M2, and the expression of inflammatory factors.
Capsosiphon fulvescens suppresses LPS-stimulated inflammatory responses by suppressing TLR4/NF-κB activation in RAW264.7 murine macrophages
Authors: Ji Seon Yeong , Bang EunJin , Hwangbo Hyun , Kim Min Yeong , Kim Da Hye , Hong Su Hyun , Park Shin-Hyung , Kwon Chang-Young , Kim Gi-Young , Jeon You-Jin , Cho Suengmok , Choi Yung Hyun
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the effects of Capsosiphon fulvescens (C. fulvescens) ethanolic extract on inflammation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW296.7 macrophages.

Methods:

The protective effects of C. fulvescens ethanolic extract on LPS-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophages were assessed using biochemical analysis, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis. To examine reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, flow cytometry analysis, and immunofluorescence staining were used. Furthermore, the modulatory effect of C. fulvescens ethanolic extract on NF-κB activation was investigated.

Results:

C. fulvescens ethanolic extract significantly attenuated LPS-induced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and notably reduced the secretion and mRNA levels of LPS-mediated matrix metalloproteinases. In addition, C. fulvescens ethanolic extract decreased ROS production and suppressed the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Conclusions:

C. fulvescens ethanolic extract alleviates inflammation as well as oxidative stress by modulating the TLR4/NF-κB signaling in LPS-induced RAW264.7 macrophages. C. fulvescens can be used as a potential therapeutic agent to suppress inflammation and oxidative stress-associated diseases.
Advances in Zika virus vaccines and therapeutics: A systematic review
Authors: Malik Shiza , Muhammad Khalid , Ahsan Omar , Khan Muhammad Tahir , Sah Ranjit , Waheed Yasir
Published: March 2024

Zika virus (ZIKV) is the causative agent of a viral infection that causes neurological complications in newborns and adults worldwide. Its wide transmission route and alarming spread rates are of great concern to the scientific community. Numerous trials have been conducted to develop treatment options for ZIKV infection. This review highlights the latest developments in the fields of vaccinology and pharmaceuticals developments for ZIKV infection. A systematic and comprehensive approach was used to gather relevant and up-to-date data so that inferences could be made about the gaps in therapeutic development. The results indicate that several therapeutic interventions are being tested against ZIKV infection, such as DNA vaccines, subunit vaccines, live-attenuated vaccines, virus-vector-based vaccines, inactivated vaccines, virus-like particles, and mRNA-based vaccines. In addition, approved anti-ZIKV drugs that can reduce the global burden are discussed. Although many vaccine candidates for ZIKV are at different stages of development, none of them have received Food and Drug Authority approval for use up to now. The issue of side effects associated with these drugs in vulnerable newborns and pregnant women is a major obstacle in the therapeutic pathway.
Evaluation of the Impact of Ozonated Water on Water Sorption and Solubility of Heat Cure Acrylic Resin: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Tafeeq Shawq A. , Al-Khafaji Aseel M.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of ozonated water on water sorption and solubility of heat-cure acrylic resin. Methods: Thirty-three samples of heat-cured acrylic resin were manufactured and divided into three groups: control, immersion for 10 and 20 minutes in ozonated water. Water sorption and water solubility tests were carried out in line with ADA Standard No. 12 for denture-base acrylic resin. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA at a significance level of 5%. Results: There was a nonsignificant difference between the control and experimental groups regarding water sorption (P = 0.273) and was significant for water solubility (P < 0.001). Tukey’s post-hoc test showed significant differences between control and intervention (OZ-10 and OZ-20) groups regarding water solubility (P < 0.001) and nonsignificant differences between OZ-10 and OZ-20 groups (P = 0.811). Conclusion: Immersion for 10 and 20 minutes in ozonated water can increase water solubility.
Assessment of the Effects of Boron Nitride Nanoplatelets Reinforcement on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of the Geopolymer Prepared by Natural Kaolinite: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Alnamel Hasanen Ali , Abdul Baqi Hikmat J.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: We aimed to assess the effects of the addition of boron nitride nanoplatelets on the physical and mechanical properties of the geopolymer prepared by natural kaolinite. Methods: The compressive strength and diametral tensile strength tests were conducted according to BS 1881-116:1983 and ASTM E9-89a(2000) using an atomic force max instrument. The surface microhardness of the geopolymer was evaluated using a Digital Vickers microhardness tester, following the guidelines outlined in ASTM E92-82(2003). The contact angle (wettability) tests were carried out according to ASTM D7334-08(2022). Results: There were statistically significant differences among all study groups regarding compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, surface hardness, and wettability (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The boron nitride nanoplatelets reinforcement has a significant impact on the compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, surface microhardness, and wettability of the geopolymer, providing valuable insights for future research and development in this field.
Fish oil supplements for treatment of psoriasis: An overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Chen Hsuan-Chi , Kuo Yi-Chun , Tai Cheng-Chen , Chi Ching-Chi
Published: March 2024

Background:

Fish oil, known for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, has been reported to alleviate psoriasis symptoms. However, systematic reviews (SRs) on this topic have yielded inconsistent conclusions.

Objectives:

The objective was to compile the existing evidence concerning the efficacy of fish oil supplements for psoriasis, explore the possible reasons behind contradictory findings, and examine potential limitations.

Methods:

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and Embase databases, covering the period from their respective inception to January 25, 2023. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment using the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR-2) tool. The effects of fish oil supplements were evaluated using the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score, total body surface area (TBSA), erythema, scaling, infiltrations, pruritus, and any major or minor adverse events.

Results:

Eight SRs were included, with four demonstrating favorable improvements in psoriasis and the remaining four showing no similar benefits. Specifically, three SRs reported significant reductions in PASI score, one reported lower TBSA, two indicated improvements in either erythema, scaling, or infiltrations, and one supported a high dose of fish oil for alleviating pruritus. Three SRs highlighted the potential benefits of fish oil supplements as a combined therapy with conventional treatments. No serious adverse events were reported. Notably, none of the SRs achieved a high methodological quality rating based on AMSTAR-2.

Conclusion:

There is a lack of consistent evidence supporting the effectiveness of fish oil supplements for treating psoriasis. Further research is warranted to better understand the potential benefits of fish oil in managing psoriasis.
Focal Crescentic Glomerulonephritis Superimposed on Myeloproliferative Disease-Related Glomerulopathy in a Case of Myelofibrosis
Authors: Kunpara Janmejay Ashvinkumar , Darji Bhavya Prakash , Patel Himanshu Arvindbhai , Patwari Devang , Patel Sujit Shaileshbhai , Darji Prakash Ishwarlal
Published: March 2024

Proliferative glomerulonephritis in myelofibrosis is a very rare. Mesangial proliferation and sclerosis with changes of chronic thrombotic microangiopathy have been reported, but pauci-immune focal crescentic glomerulonephritis has not been described so far. Herein, we present a 68-year-old male who was a known case of myelofibrosis and presented with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis and nephrotic range proteinuria. He was diagnosed as anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-negative focal crescentic glomerulonephritis, and he responded well to a course of intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide. Pauci-immune focal crescentic glomerulonephritis may occur in myelofibrosis without ANCA and may be related to unknown pathogenetic mechanisms in myeloproliferative disorders or suggest any superimposed pathology that might respond well to immunosuppressants.
C3 Dominant Collapsing Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis – A Report of Two Rare Cases
Authors: Shankar Mythri , Gurusiddiah Sreedhara C. , Vinay K. S. , Aralapuram Kishan , Siddalingappa Ranjitha , Satheesh Gouri
Published: March 2024

Collapsing focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) a heterogeneous group of disorders, rather than a single disease entity. Kidney biopsy shows segmental or globally collapsed, sclerotic glomerular capillaries. There is also hypertrophy and hyperplasia of overlying glomerular epithelial cells. Immuno-fluorescence is negative or has non-specific deposits of immunoglobulins and C3. We present two cases of C3 dominant collapsing FSGS. Both the cases were non-responsive to therapy and had a poor outcome. This calls for research to study the role of the complement pathway in the pathogenesis of FSGS.
Influence of Cyp3A4, Cyp3A5 and ABCB1 Polymorphisms on Tacrolimus Concentrations and Rejection Risk in Indian Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Mukkavilli Kamal Kiran , Khan Mohammed Shoeb A , Donakonda Arun Kumar , Gangisetty Suma Rama Gopal , Poojaveli Dileena
Published: March 2024

Background:

Tacrolimus metabolism is known to be determined by gene polymorphisms. Cyp3A5 genotype has most widely been seen to be associated with tacrolimus metabolism. Studies on other genes have produced mixed results.

Objective:

We studied the association of three polymorphisms CYP3A4*1B (-392 G>A), CYP3A5 (6986 A>G), and ABCB1 (3435 T>C) on tacrolimus levels and their association with either rejection or nephrotoxicity (infection or tacrolimus toxicity) in renal transplant recipients from India.

Materials and Methods:

In this prospective cohort study, patients who underwent kidney transplantation between July 2018 and July 2023 were studied. Inclusion criteria: Patients who underwent Kidney Transplantation and were (i) on tacrolimus-based immunosuppression and (ii) not on medications known to interact with calcineurin inhibitors, such as ketoconazole, phenytoin, and diltiazem, were studied. Tacrolimus levels, tacrolimus concentration/dose (C/D) and tacrolimus C/D per kg body weight, at monthly time points posttransplant for 6 months and biopsy-proven rejection, infection, tacrolimus toxicity, and acute tubular necrosis data were collected.

Results:

Three hundred and twenty-seven patients were included in the study. Two hundred and fifty-seven were male and 70 were female. A total of 1402 tacrolimus samples were collected, with an average of 3.2 ± 2.1 samples per patient. Tacrolimus levels were significantly lower in the Cyp3A5 AG and AA GG genotypes versus GG (5.27 ± 2.95 and 6.22 ± 2.79 vs. 8.05 ± 4.83, P < 0.001) as were C/D (3.45 ± 2.29 and 3.37 ± 1.91 vs. 6.47 ± 4.44, P < 0.001) and C/D/W (52.45 ± 33.98 and 52.19 ± 32.61 vs. 98.09 ± 73.80, P < 0.001). Cyp3A5 AA and AG had higher rejection rates than GG (20% vs. 13 vs. 8%, P = 0.03). The relative risk of rejection with A versus G polymorphism was 1.9 (confidence interval: 1.03–3.58), P = 0.03. Cyp3A4 and ABCB1 polymorphism studies did not show any association with the parameters studied.

Conclusion:

Our study showed that Cyp3A5 gene polymorphisms were significantly associated with tacrolimus metabolism, rejection episodes, and rejection risk. Cyp3A4 and ABCB1 were not significantly associated with the parameters studied.
Role of Octreotide and Instillation of Povidone-Iodine in the Treatment of Lymphorrhea in Renal Transplantation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Baderiya Vaibhav Kant , Pal Dilip Kumar , Pal Atanu
Published: March 2024

Background:

Lymphorrhea is a minor complication after kidney transplantation but may develop into a lymphocele and prolong hospital stay. Treatment is conservative based on percutaneous drainage until lymphatic leakage cessation. It has been reported that povidone iodine instillation and octreotide has beneficial effects to treat lymphorrhea after renal transplantation.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the povidone iodine instillation and octreotide treatment in lymphorrea after kidney transplantation. To evaluate the efficacy of povidone iodine and octreotide injection in comparison to control group for the treatment of lymphorrhea in renal transplant patient.

Materials and Methods:

It was comparative analytical study included 60 recipients of both cadaveric and live kidney allografts with posttransplant lymphorrhea including 20 treated with instillation of betadine solution, 20 with octreotide (0.1 mg three times a day subcutaneously), and 20 was control group (no betadine and octreotide was used). We reviewed the daily amount of fluid collection, duration of lymphorrhea, complications, lymphocele formation, rejection episodes, graft outcomes, and hospital stay.

Results:

The average duration of lymphorrhea was (8.85 ± 0.88) and (11.6 ± 0.94) and (16.15 ± 0.81) days for the betadine groups, the octreotide groups and control groups respectively. (P < 0.05). No lymphoceles occurred among the betadine group, while three lymphoceles were found among patients treated with octreotide and five lymphocele were found among control groups. No differences were observed for wound infection, graft dysfunction episodes or renal function and death between the groups. No octreotide and povidone related adverse events were noted.

Conclusion:

The mean length of lymphorrhea was lower with povidone iodine instillation as compared to octreotide treatment. There was a shorter hospital stay and minor patient discomfort in betadine groups. In conclusion, lymphatic leakage after kidney transplantation may be successfully managed by betadine instillation as compared to octreotide and control groups.
Renal Transplantation in Rare Monogenic Urinary Stone Disease – A Single-center Experience
Authors: Shanmugam Sabarinath , Prasad Narayan , Bhadauria Dharmendra , Kaul Anupma , Patel Manas Ranjan , Behera Manas Ranjan , Kushwaha Ravi Shankar , Yachha Monika
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Monogenic urinary stone disease (MUSD) tends to be more severe with early onset of symptoms and a higher risk of chronic kidney disease than sporadic USD. The literature on the outcome after renal transplant in patients with certain MUSD is scarce.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective single-center observational study conducted in a tertiary care renal transplant unit in North India between 2018 and 2021. The renal transplant recipients who developed an end-stage renal disease (ESRD) due to renal calculus disease/nephrocalcinosis were included in the study. All the patients presented to us in an anuric state, and hence, a 24-h urine metabolic profile could not be performed. Ear, nose, and throat and ophthalmological evaluations were done to rule out extrarenal manifestations. These patients were subjected to genetic analysis, i.e., clinical exome sequencing using next-generation sequencing.

Results:

Out of 283 live renal transplants, 11 patients developed ESRD due to nephrocalcinosis/renal calculus disease. Out of 11, only 4 had genetic mutations and the rest did not have any identifiable genetic mutations. The gene mutations were identified in ADCY10, CLDN16, CaSR, and SLC3A4. The patient with ADCY10 mutation had a strong family history. The clinical phenotype and in silico parameters analysis predicted the variant to be damaging except the one with CaSR mutation which causes Hypocalciuric hypercalcemia syndrome, type 1. Three of four underwent surgical intervention at younger age. All underwent successful live-related renal transplantation, with good graft function on follow-up, without any recurrence of calculus in the allograft.

Conclusion:

Renal transplantation can be safely proceeded in patients with the above monogenic mutations. Genetic analysis should be a part of pretransplant evaluation in young onset nephrolithiasis and end-stage kidney disease patients to look for a monogenic cause, to assess the risk of recurrence postrenal transplant.
The Transplant Dilemma: Uniting Rare Entities – Diabetic Nephropathy, Type 3 Diabetes Mellitus, and Acromegaly Secondary to Pituitary Macroadenoma
Authors: Agarwal Arjun , Agrawal Dhananjai , Gupta Rakesh
Published: March 2024

Diabetic nephropathy is a well-recognized complication of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes mellitus. This case report presents a unique and rare scenario of diabetes mellitus secondary to acromegaly, arising from a concealed, and long-standing pituitary macroadenoma. The report explores the challenges and dilemmas encountered in considering renal transplantation as a viable treatment option for this complex interplay of medical conditions.
Physical Activity Promotion in Schools Using Theoretically Designed Mobile Phone Application
Authors: Ramezankhani Ali , Sadeghi Samira , Ghaffari Mohtasham , Namdari Mahshid
Published: March 2024

Background:

Regular physical activity for adolescents has many health benefits, many of which also affect adulthood. Physical activity is a behavior that requires planning and choosing an appropriate educational method, model, or theory. However, mobile phone applications are known as a suitable method to increase physical activity according to the guidelines. This study aims to increase physical activity in female students based on the theory of planned behavior using mobile phone applications.

Methods:

This quasi-experimental study was implemented on 220 high school students (110 people in each group). The samples were selected by a multi-stage cluster method and their information was collected by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) questionnaire whose validity and reliability were confirmed. The intervention group received 8 sessions of education through a mobile phone application that was designed by the constructs of the theory of planned behavior. The samples were evaluated in three stages, through a pre-test, post-test, and two-month follow-up.

Results:

The results showed a significant difference in the post-test and two months after the intervention between intervention and control groups in terms of attitude, perceived behavioral control, intention, and physical activity. There was a significant difference between intervention and control groups in subjective norms in the post-test, but there was no significant difference in the two-month follow-up compared to the post-test (P = 0.08).

Conclusions:

An educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior using mobile phone applications led to an increase in the physical activity of girl high school students. However, to determine the full effectiveness of this study, it is recommended to implement this intervention in all schools.
Decoding the Genetics of Recurrent Molar Pregnancy
Authors: Mehta Sumita , Mahay Sunita Bijarnia , Satapathy Abhishek , Arora Kiran
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Hydatidiform mole is a condition characterised by abnormal trophoblastic hyperplasia and failure of embryonic tissue development. The risk of recurrence is seen to be associated with biallelic maternal mutations in NLRP7, KHDC3 L and PAD16 genes. Women with such mutations have a major risk of reproductive failure and normal pregnancy is seen in only 1.8%. We report the case of a 31-year-old woman with previous three molar pregnancies who on genetic testing was found to be compound heterozygous for pathogenic variants in the NLRP7 gene (c.2738A>G and c.2078G>C). Accordingly, the woman was counselled regarding assisted reproduction with oocyte donation for a normal pregnancy outcome. At present, the patient has an ongoing 5-month pregnancy through oocyte donation.
Prediction of Reproductive Outcomes of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Cycles Using a Multivariate Scoring System
Authors: Abden Ahmed Abuelsoud , Kamel Momen Ahmed , Fetih Ahmed Nabil , Yousef Ali Haroun
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Prediction of in vitro fertilisation (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) success is crucial in counselling patients about their real chance of getting a live birth before commencing treatment. A multivariate scoring system proposed by Younis et al., 2010, was amongst the predictive models used to evaluate IVF/ICSI success. The score entitles basal endocrine, clinical and sonographic parameters.

Aims:

The objective of this study is to assess the predictability of the Younis multivariate score for pregnancy outcomes in ICSI cycles.

Settings and Design:

This prospective observational cohort study (NCT03846388) included patients who pursued IVF or ICSI in a tertiary infertility unit between February 2019 and December 2021.

Materials and Methods:

The score variables were age, body mass index, antral follicle count, basal follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), basal FSH/luteinising hormone ratio, infertility duration, number of previous cancellations and mean ovarian volume. For each woman included in the study, Younis multivariate score was calculated. Then, we correlate the different reproductive outcomes with score levels to validate the score predictability. A score of ≤14 was defined as a low score based on the previous study’s results.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The student’s t-test and Mann–Whitney test were used to compare numerical variables, whereas categorical variables were analysed using the Chi-square test. A receiver operating curve (ROC) and a multivariate logistic regression model were used to investigate the predictability of the Younis scoring model for cycle outcomes.

Results:

Two hundred ninety-two ICSI-ET cycles were analysed. Of the total cohort, 143 (48.97%) women included showed a low score (≤14), whereas 149 (51.03%) women showed a high score (>14). Women with low scores had significantly higher pregnancy and live birth rates compared to women with high scores (60.1% vs. 7.4%, respectively, P < 0.001; 44.7% vs. 6.7%, respectively, P < 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) in the ROC curve analysis showed a higher predictability for the scoring system for live birth rate with an AUC of 0.796, with a sensitivity of 86.5% and specificity of 63.8% when using a cut-off level of ≤14. For pregnancy prediction, the AUC was 0.829, with a sensitivity of 88.66% and a specificity of 70.77% when using the same cut-off. Women who have a low score have a high chance of having frozen embryos. Likewise, women who have a high score have a very high chance of cycle cancellation.

Conclusions:

The Younis multivariate score can be used for the prediction of ICSI cycle outcomes and to calculate the chance of cycle cancellation, pregnancy and take-home baby before ICSI.
Incidence of Yq Microdeletion among Chattishgarh Population and Cast based distribution
Authors: Sinha Manisha B , Dada Rima , Patel Suprava , Mohapatra Eli , Bagde NilajKumar , Sinha Human Prasad , Gupta Sonam
Published: March 2024

Background:

Millions of individuals in their reproductive years are affected by infertility on a global scale, potentially exerting a significant influence on their lives and family dynamics. The coexistence of abnormal seminogram and Yq microdeletion synergistically affects infertility. Therefore, the study was designed to determine the frequency of distribution of Yq microdeletion in abnormal semen parametric infertility cases.

Methodology:

Seventy-five cases of infertility and 78 controls with known fertility were enrolled for the cross-sectional study. In the collected blood sample, DNA was isolated and a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) mix for various markers was prepared. After running in a thermocycler, PCR products were analyzed by gel electrophoresis.

Results:

The distribution of deletion among different subtypes: azoospermic, severe oligozoospermic, oligozoospermic, and normozoospermic cases was 35%, 33%, 35%, and 33%, respectively. The most common deletion type in the Chhattisgarh population was azoospermia factor c. Caste-based distribution among the study group was quite uniform.

Conclusion:

Y chromosome microdeletion would be an essential test after seminogram in cases of male infertility, especially to prevent the transmission or inheritance of infertility to offspring. Due to the high frequency of microdeletions, it is a very useful test to identify male infertility in Chhattisgarh.