bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General practitioners’ views towards management of common mental health disorders: Τhe critical role of continuing medical education
Authors: Papachristopoulos Ilias , Sazakli Eleni , Leotsinidis Michalis
Published: March 2023

Background

The disability burden of common mental health disorders is enormous and should be faced at the first point of contact in the healthcare system. General Practitioners (GPs) are called to recognize, diagnose, and manage patients with mental health disorders, a task which is not always addressed successfully. The study aims at examining the relationship between mental health education of GPs and self-reported opinions on the care they provide to patients with mental disorders in Greece.

Methods

A questionnaire investigating GPs' viewpoints regarding diagnostic methods, referral rates and overall management of patients with mental disorders, and how these are impacted by their education on mental health, was employed, in a randomly selected sample of 353 GPs in Greece. Suggestions and proposals about improvement of ongoing mental health training, along with organizational reforming were also recorded.

Results

Received Continuing Medical Education (CME) is characterized as insufficient by 56.1% of the GPs. More than half of the GPs participate in clinical tutorials and mental health conferences once per three years or less. The level of educational score on mental health is associated positively with decisiveness on management of patients and increases self-confidence. A percentage of 77.6% states knowledge of the appropriate treatment and 56.1% agree to initiate treatment without referring to a specialist. However, low to moderate self-confidence about diagnosis and treatment is stated by 47.5%. According to GPs, critical points for improving mental health primary care are the liaison psychiatry and high degree of CME.

Conclusion

Greek GPs are calling for focused and continuing medical education, in the field of psychiatry, along with essential structural and organizational reforming of the healthcare system, including an efficient liaison psychiatry.
Midlife perceived stress is associated with cognitive decline across three decades
Authors: Christensen Dinne Skjærlund , Garde Ellen , Siebner Hartwig Roman , Mortensen Erik Lykke
Published: March 2023

Background

Research indicates detrimental effects of stress on brain health and cognitive functioning, but population-based studies using comprehensive measures of cognitive decline is lacking. The present study examined the association of midlife perceived stress with cognitive decline from young adulthood to late midlife, controlling for early life circumstances, education and trait stress (neuroticism).

Methods

The sample consisted of 292 members of the Copenhagen Perinatal Cohort (1959–1961) with continued participation in two subsequent follow-up studies. Cognitive ability was assessed in young adulthood (mean age 27 years) and midlife (mean age 56 years) using the full Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), and perceived stress was measured at midlife using the Perceived Stress Scale. The association of midlife perceived stress with decline in Verbal, Performance and Full-Scale IQ was assessed in multiple regression models based on Full Information Maximum Likelihood estimation.

Results

Over a mean retest interval of 29 years, average decline in IQ score was 2.42 (SD 7.98) in Verbal IQ and 8.87 (SD 9.37) in Performance IQ. Mean decline in Full-scale IQ was 5.63 (SD 7.48), with a retest correlation of 0.83. Controlling for parental socio-economic position, education and young adult IQ, higher perceived stress at midlife was significantly associated with greater decline in Verbal (β = − 0.012), Performance (β = − 0.025), and Full-scale IQ (β = − 0.021), all p < .05. Across IQ scales, additionally controlling for neuroticism in young adulthood and change in neuroticism had only minor effects on the association of midlife perceived stress with decline.

Conclusions

Despite very high retest correlations, decline was observed on all WAIS IQ scales. In fully adjusted models, higher midlife perceived stress was associated with greater decline on all scales, indicating a negative association of stress with cognitive ability. The association was strongest for Performance and Full-scale IQ, perhaps reflecting the greater decline on these IQ scales compared to Verbal IQ.
Sintilimab Plus Apatinib and Chemotherapy as Second‑/Third-Line treatment for Advanced Gastric or Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma: a prospective, Single-Arm, phase II trial
Authors: Zhang Le , Wang Weixue , Ge Shaohua , Li Hongli , Bai Ming , Duan Jingjing , Yang Yuchong , Ning Tao , Liu Rui , Wang Xia , Ji Zhi , Wang Feixue , Zhang Haiyang , Ba Yi , Deng Ting
Published: March 2023

Background

The prognosis of patients with previously treated advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer remains poor. Given the robust development of immunotherapy and targeted therapy during the last decades, we aimed to investigate if the combination of traditional second-line chemotherapy with sintilimab and apatinib could bring survival benefits for these patients.

Methods

In this single-center, single-arm, phase II trial, patients with previously treated advanced gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma received specific dose level of intravenous paclitaxel or irinotecan (investigator’s choice), 200 mg intravenous sintilimab on day 1, and 250 mg oral apatinib once daily continuously in each cycle until disease progression, intolerable toxicity, or withdrawal of consent. The primary endpoints were objective response rate and progression-free survival. The secondary endpoints were mainly overall survival and safety.

Results

From May 2019 to May 2021, 30 patients were enrolled. At the data cutoff date (March 19, 2022), the median follow-up duration was 12.3 months and 53.6% (95% CI, 33.9–72.5%) patients achieved objective response. The median progression-free survival and overall survival were 8.5 months (95% CI, 5.4–11.5) and 12.5 months (95% CI, 3.7–21.3), respectively. Grade 3–4 adverse events included hematological toxicities, elevated alanine aminotransferase, elevated aspartate aminotransferase, elevated alkaline phosphatase, elevated gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, hyperbilirubinemia and proteinuria. The most frequent grade 3–4 adverse event was neutropenia (13.3%). No serious treatment-related adverse events or treatment-related deaths occurred.

Conclusion

Sintilimab plus apatinib and chemotherapy demonstrates promising anti-tumor activity with manageable safety profile in patients with previously treated advanced gastric or GEJ cancer.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05025033, 27/08/2021.
Electrocardiographic and biochemical analysis of anthracycline induced cardiotoxicity in breast cancer patients from Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: Sandamali Jayasinghe Arachchige Nirosha , Hewawasam Ruwani Punyakanthi , Fernando Madappuli Arachchige Chaminda Sri S , Jayatilaka Kamani Ayoma Perera Wijewardana
Published: March 2023

Background

The clinical application of anthracycline chemotherapy is hindered due to the cumulative dose-dependent cardiotoxicity followed by the oxidative stress initiated during the mechanism of action of anthracyclines. Due to a lack of prevalence data regarding anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity in Sri Lanka, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of cardiotoxicity among breast cancer patients in Southern Sri Lanka in terms of electrocardiographic and cardiac biomarker investigations.

Methods

A cross-sectional study with longitudinal follow-up was conducted among 196 cancer patients at the Teaching Hospital, Karapitiya, Sri Lanka to determine the incidence of acute and early-onset chronic cardiotoxicity. Data on electrocardiography and cardiac biomarkers were collected from each patient, one day before anthracycline (doxorubicin and epirubicin) chemotherapy, one day after the first dose, one day and six months after the last dose of anthracycline chemotherapy.

Results

Prevalence of sub-clinical anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity six months after the completion of anthracycline chemotherapy was significantly higher (p < 0.05) and there were strong, significant (p < 0.05) associations among echocardiography, electrocardiography measurements and cardiac biomarkers including troponin I and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptides. The cumulative anthracycline dose, > 350 mg/m2 was the most significant risk factor associated with the sub-clinical cardiotoxicity in breast cancer patients under study.

Conclusion

Since these results confirmed the unavoidable cardiotoxic changes following anthracycline chemotherapy, it is recommended to carry out long-term follow-ups in all patients who were treated with anthracycline therapy to increase their quality of life as cancer survivors.
Primary retroperitoneal mucinous cystic tumour of borderline malignancy mimicking kidney duplicate: cases report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Junlong , Zeng Qinsong , Kang Jihui , Chen Junxing , Luo Guiyuan , Liang Yueyou
Published: March 2023

Background

Primary retroperitoneal mucinous cystic tumours with borderline malignancy (PRMC-BM) are rare and difficult to diagnose preoperatively. We are the first to report two cases of PRMC-BM which mimic a duplex kidney and evaluate the outcomes of different surgical procedures.

Case presentation

We describe two cases of retroperitoneal cystic tumours. Both were diagnosed with duplex kidney with hydronephrosis on computed tomography scan. The first patient underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery and was found to have a retroperitoneal cystic tumour. The other patient underwent an ultrasound-guided puncture before surgery and was diagnosed with retroperitoneal lymphangioma. Retroperitoneal cystectomy was performed using an open transperitoneal procedure. The final pathologic diagnosis in both cases implies PRMC-BM. The open surgical approach was associated with a shorter operation time, less intraoperative blood loss, and protected cyst wall integrity by comparing the different surgical approaches. During follow-up, the patient in the first case had tumour recurrence six months post-surgery, and the other patient was healthy without recurrence or metastasis 12 months post-surgery.

Conclusions

Primary retroperitoneal mucinous cystic tumours with borderline malignancy can be enclosed within the kidney and misdiagnosed as other cystic diseases of the urinary system. Thus, an open surgical approach may be more suitable for this type of tumour.
Association of G6PD status and haemolytic anaemia in patients receiving anti-malarial agents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nelwan Erni J. , Shakinah Sharifah , Pasaribu Adeline
Published: March 2023

Background

Some anti-malarial drugs often cause haemolytic anaemia in glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd) patients. This study aims to analyse the association of G6PDd and anaemia in malaria patients receiving anti-malarial drugs.

Methods

A literature search was performed in major database portals. All studies searched using keywords with Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) were included, without date or language restriction. Pooled mean difference of haemoglobin and risk ratio of anaemia were analysed using RevMan.

Results

Sixteen studies comprising 3474 malaria patients that included 398 (11.5%) with G6PDd were found. Mean difference of haemoglobin in G6PDd/G6PD normal (G6PDn) patients was − 0.16 g/dL (95% CI − 0.48, 0.15; I2 5%, p = 0.39), regardless of the type of malaria and dose of drugs. In particular with primaquine (PQ), mean difference of haemoglobin in G6PDd/G6PDn patients with dose < 0.5 mg/kg/day was − 0.04 (95% CI − 0.35, 0.27; I2 0%, p = 0.69). The risk ratio of developing anaemia in G6PDd patients was 1.02 (95% CI 0.75, 1.38; I2 0%, p = 0.79).

Conclusion

Single or daily standard doses of PQ (0.25 mg/kg/day) and weekly PQ (0.75 mg/kg/week) did not increase the risk of anaemia in G6PDd patients.
A simplified point-of-service model for hepatitis C in people who inject drugs in South Africa
Authors: Saayman Elaine , Hechter Vanessa , Kayuni Ndoliwe , Sonderup Mark W.
Published: March 2023

Background

Globally, 9% of people who inject drugs (PWID), a key hepatitis C-infected population, reside in sub-Saharan Africa. In South Africa, hepatitis C seroprevalence in PWID is high. It is almost 84% in Pretoria and hepatitis C genotypes 1 and 3 predominate. Access to hepatitis C care for PWID is inadequate given low referral rates, socio-structural barriers, homelessness and limited access to harm reduction. Traditional care models do not address the needs of this population. We piloted a simplified complete point-of-service care model, a first of its kind in the country and sub-continental region.

Methods

Community-based recruitment from Pretoria’s PWID population occurred over 11 months. Participants were screened with point-of-care rapid diagnostic tests for HBsAg (Alere Determine™), hepatitis C and HIV antibodies (OraQuick®). Qualitative HCV viremia was confirmed on site with Genedrive® (Sysmex), similarly at week 4, end of treatment and to confirm sustained virological response. Viremic hepatitis C participants were initiated on 12 weeks of daily sofosbuvir and daclatasvir. Harm reduction and adherence support, through directly observed therapy, peer support, a stipend and transport, was provided.

Results

A total of 163 participants were screened for hepatitis C antibody, and 66% were positive with 80 (87%) viremic. An additional 36 confirmed hepatitis C viremic participants were referred. Of those eligible to initiate treatment, 87 (93%) were commenced on sofosbuvir and daclatasvir, with 98% (n = 85) male, 35% (n = 30) HIV co-infected, 1% (n = 1) HBV co-infected and 5% (n = 4) HIV/HBV/HCV triple infected. Some 67% (n = 58) accessed harm reduction packs, 57% (n = 50) opioid substitution therapy and 18% (n = 16) stopped injecting. A per protocol sustained virological response of 90% (n = 51) was achieved with 14% (n = 7) confirmed reinfections following a sustained virological response. HCV RNA qualitative testing performance was acceptable with all sustained virological responses validated against a laboratory assay. Mild adverse effects were reported in 6% (n = 5). Thirty-eight percent (n = 33) of participants were lost to follow-up.

Conclusion

In our setting, a simplified point-of-service hepatitis C care model for PWID yielded an acceptable sustained virological response rate. Retention in care and follow-up remains both challenging and central to success. We have demonstrated the utility of a model of care for our country and region to utilize this more community acceptable and simplified practice.
Role and mechanism of PIM family in the immune microenvironment of diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Wang Changying , Chen Qitian , Luo Haichao , Chen Ran
Published: March 2023

Background

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a more common non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). This study aims to explore the prognostic value of PIM kinase family in DLBCL and its relationship with the immune microenvironment, to provide a certain reference for the prognosis and treatment of DLBCL.

Methods

The prognostic value of PIM kinase family in DLBCL from the data set GSE10846 was verified through survival analysis and cox regression analysis. Mutations in PIM kinase family and its relationship with immune cell infiltration were explored with online cBioPortal, TIMER database, and single-gene GSEA analysis. Finally, the expression of PIM kinase family in tissues from DLBCL clinical samples was validated through immunohistochemical staining.

Results

The proteins of PIM kinase family were highly expressed in DLBCL patients, which are good prognostic factors for DLBCL patients. Then, PIM1-3 proteins were positively correlated with the immune infiltration of B cells, whose types of mutations also showed different degrees of correlation with B cells. PIM kinase family proteins also showed a high correlation with PDL1. In addition, PIM kinase family was also associated with the commonly mutated genes in DLBCL, such as MYD88, MYC, and BTK.

Conclusion

PIM kinase family may be a potential therapeutic target for DLBCL patients.
T cell effects and mechanisms in immunotherapy of head and neck tumors
Authors: Xiang Yizhen , Gong Mengdan , Deng Yongqin , Wang Hongli , Ye Dong
Published: March 2023

Head and neck tumors (HNCs) are a common tumor in otorhinolaryngology head and neck surgery, accounting for 5% of all malignant tumors in the body and are the sixth most common malignant tumor worldwide. In the body, immune cells can recognize, kill, and remove HNCs. T cell-mediated antitumor immune activity is the most important antitumor response in the body. T cells have different effects on tumor cells, among which cytotoxic T cells and helper T cells play a major killing and regulating role. T cells recognize tumor cells, activate themselves, differentiate into effector cells, and activate other mechanisms to induce antitumor effects. In this review, the immune effects and antitumor mechanisms mediated by T cells are systematically described from the perspective of immunology, and the application of new immunotherapy methods related to T cells are discussed, with the objective of providing a theoretical basis for exploring and forming new antitumor treatment strategies.
Integration of longitudinal deep-radiomics and clinical data improves the prediction of durable benefits to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy in advanced NSCLC patients
Authors: Farina Benito , Guerra Ana Delia Ramos , Bermejo-Peláez David , Miras Carmelo Palacios , Peral Andrés Alcazar , Madueño Guillermo Gallardo , Jaime Jesús Corral , Vilalta-Lacarra Anna , Pérez Jaime Rubio , Muñoz-Barrutia Arrate , Peces-Barba German R. , Maceiras Luis Seijo , Gil-Bazo Ignacio , Gómez Manuel Dómine , Ledesma-Carbayo María J.
Published: March 2023

Background

Identifying predictive non-invasive biomarkers of immunotherapy response is crucial to avoid premature treatment interruptions or ineffective prolongation. Our aim was to develop a non-invasive biomarker for predicting immunotherapy clinical durable benefit, based on the integration of radiomics and clinical data monitored through early anti-PD-1/PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies treatment in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

In this study, 264 patients with pathologically confirmed stage IV NSCLC treated with immunotherapy were retrospectively collected from two institutions. The cohort was randomly divided into a training (n = 221) and an independent test set (n = 43), ensuring the balanced availability of baseline and follow-up data for each patient. Clinical data corresponding to the start of treatment was retrieved from electronic patient records, and blood test variables after the first and third cycles of immunotherapy were also collected. Additionally, traditional radiomics and deep-radiomics features were extracted from the primary tumors of the computed tomography (CT) scans before treatment and during patient follow-up. Random Forest was used to implementing baseline and longitudinal models using clinical and radiomics data separately, and then an ensemble model was built integrating both sources of information.

Results

The integration of longitudinal clinical and deep-radiomics data significantly improved clinical durable benefit prediction at 6 and 9 months after treatment in the independent test set, achieving an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.824 (95% CI: [0.658,0.953]) and 0.753 (95% CI: [0.549,0.931]). The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that, for both endpoints, the signatures significantly stratified high- and low-risk patients (p-value< 0.05) and were significantly correlated with progression-free survival (PFS6 model: C-index 0.723, p-value = 0.004; PFS9 model: C-index 0.685, p-value = 0.030) and overall survival (PFS6 models: C-index 0.768, p-value = 0.002; PFS9 model: C-index 0.736, p-value = 0.023).

Conclusions

Integrating multidimensional and longitudinal data improved clinical durable benefit prediction to immunotherapy treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients. The selection of effective treatment and the appropriate evaluation of clinical benefit are important for better managing cancer patients with prolonged survival and preserving quality of life.
J-shape relationship between normal fasting plasma glucose and risk of type 2 diabetes in the general population: results from two cohort studies
Authors: He Linfeng , Zheng Wenbin , Li Zeyu , Chen Lu , Kong Wen , Zeng Tianshu
Published: March 2023

Background

Previous studies have reported that high fasting plasma glucose (FPG), even that within the normal range, is associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Nevertheless, these findings are limited to specific populations. Thus, studies in the general population are imperative.

Methods

This study included two cohorts comprising 204 640 individuals who underwent physical examinations at the Rich Healthcare Group present at 32 locations in 11 cities of China from 2010 to 2016 and 15 464 individuals who underwent physical tests at the Murakami Memorial Hospital in Japan. Cox regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS), Kaplan–Meier (KM) curves, and subgroup analysis were used to determine the relationship between FPG and T2D. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to evaluate the predictive power of FPG for T2D.

Results

The mean age of the 220 104 participants (204 640 Chinese and 15 464 Japanese participants) was 41.8 years (41.7 years for the Chinese and 43.7 years for the Japanese participants). During follow-up, 2611 individuals developed T2D (2238 Chinese and 373 Japanese participants). The RCS demonstrated a J-shaped relationship between FPG and T2D risk, with inflexion points of 4.5 and 5.2 for the Chinese and Japanese populations, respectively. Multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) was 7.75 for FPG and T2D risk after the inflexion point (7.3 for Chinese and 21.13 for Japanese participants).

Conclusions

In general Chinese and Japanese populations, the normal baseline FPG range showed a J-shaped relationship with the risk of T2D. Baseline FPG levels help identify individuals at high risk of T2D and may enable early primary prevention to improve their outcomes.
CAR T cell therapy for T cell leukemia and lymphoma: latest updates from 2022 ASH Annual Meeting
Authors: Huang Qiusha , Zhang Xiao-hui , Liu Delong
Published: March 2023

Due to the concern of fratricide, clinical development of CAR T cells for the therapy of T cell malignancies lags behind that for B cell malignancies. Attempts are being made to revise T cell biomarkers so that the re-engineered CAR T cells can target T cell malignancies. CD3 and CD7 are the two pan-T cell surface biomarkers that have been either knocked out or knocked down through genome base- editing technology or by protein expression blockers so that the re-engineered T cells can target T cells without fratricide. We summarized several latest reports on the CAR T cells for the therapy of T cell leukemia /lymphoma from the 2022 ASH Annual Meeting, with latest updates on clinical trials of TvT CAR7, RD-13-01, and CD7 CART.
Shock index as predictor of massive transfusion and mortality in patients with trauma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Carsetti Andrea , Antolini Riccardo , Casarotta Erika , Damiani Elisa , Gasparri Francesco , Marini Benedetto , Adrario Erica , Donati Abele
Published: March 2023

Background

Management of bleeding trauma patients is still a difficult challenge. Massive transfusion (MT) requires resources to ensure the safety and timely delivery of blood products. Early prediction of MT need may be useful to shorten the time process of blood product preparation. The primary aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of shock index to predict the need for MT in adult patients with trauma. For the same population, we also assessed the accuracy of SI to predict mortality.

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. We performed a systematic search on MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to March 2022. Studies were included if they reported MT or mortality with SI recorded at arrival in the field or the emergency department. The risk of bias was assessed using the QUADAS-2.

Results

Thirty-five studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, for a total of 670,728 patients. For MT the overall sensibility was 0.68 [0.57; 0.76], the overall specificity was 0.84 [0.79; 0.88] and the AUC was 0.85 [0.81; 0.88]. Positive and Negative Likelihood Ratio (LR+; LR−) were 4.24 [3.18–5.65] and 0.39 [0.29–0.52], respectively. For mortality the overall sensibility was 0.358 [0.238; 0.498] the overall specificity 0.742 [0.656; 0.813] and the AUC 0.553 (confidence region for sensitivity given specificity: [0.4014; 0.6759]; confidence region for specificity given sensitivity: [0.4799; 0.6332]). LR+ and LR− were 1.39 [1.36–1.42] and 0.87 [0.85–0.89], respectively.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that SI may have a limited role as the sole tool to predict the need for MT in adult trauma patients. SI is not accurate to predict mortality but may have a role to identify patients with a low risk of mortality.
S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase-like protein 1 (AHCYL1) inhibits lung cancer tumorigenesis by regulating cell plasticity
Authors: Muñoz-Bernart Melina , Budnik Nicolás , Castro Araceli , Manzi Malena , Monge María Eugenia , Pioli Julieta , Defranchi Sebastián , Parrilla Gustavo , Santilli Juan Pablo , Davies Kevin , Espinosa Joaquín M. , Kobayashi Ken , Vigliano Carlos , Perez-Castro Carolina
Published: March 2023

Background

Lung cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers characterized by high mortality, metastatic potential, and recurrence. Deregulated gene expression of lung cancer, likewise in many other solid tumors, accounts for their cell heterogeneity and plasticity. S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase-like protein 1 (AHCYL1), also known as Inositol triphosphate (IP(3)) receptor-binding protein released with IP(3) (IRBIT), plays roles in many cellular functions, including autophagy and apoptosis but AHCYL1 role in lung cancer is largely unknown.

Results

Here, we analyzed the expression of AHCYL1 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) cells from RNA-seq public data and surgical specimens, which revealed that AHCYL1 expression is downregulated in tumors and inverse correlated to proliferation marker Ki67 and the stemness signature expression. AHCYL1-silenced NSCLC cells showed enhanced stem-like properties in vitro, which correlated with higher expression levels of stem markers POU5F1 and CD133. Also, the lack of AHCYL1 enhanced tumorigenicity and angiogenesis in mouse xenograft models highlighting stemness features.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that AHCYL1 is a negative regulator in NSCLC tumorigenesis by modulating cell differentiation state and highlighting AHCYL1 as a potential prognostic biomarker for lung cancer.
A green protocol ball milling synthesis of dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole using nano-silica/aminoethylpiperazine as a metal-free catalyst
Authors: Mallah Dina , Mirjalili Bi Bi Fatemeh
Published: March 2023

Background

Ball mill is an effective, and green method for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds in very good yields. This method is a simple, economical, and environmentally friendly process. In this work, an efficient approach for the synthesis of pyranopyrazoles (PPzs) using ball milling and metal-free nano-catalyst (Nano-silica/aminoethylpiperazine), under solvent-free conditions was reported.

Results

The new nano-catalyst silica/aminoethylpiperazine was prepared by immobilization of 1-(2-aminoethyl)piperazine on nano-silica chloride. The structure of the prepared nano-catalyst was identified by FT-IR, FESEM, TGA, EDX, EDS-map, XRD, and pH techniques. This novel nano-catalyst was used for the synthesis of dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole derivatives under ball milling and solvent-free conditions.

Conclusions

Unlike other pyranopyrazoles synthesis reactions, this method has advantages including short reaction time (5–20 min), room temperature, and relatively high efficiency, which makes this protocol very attractive for the synthesis of pyranopyrazoles derivatives.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of topical oily solution containing frankincense extract in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Mohsenzadeh Afsaneh , Karimifar Mansoor , Soltani Rasool , Hajhashemi Valiollah
Published: March 2023

Objective

Pharmacological treatments of osteoarthritis (OA) have several side effects. Boswellia serrata resin (frankincense) is rich in boswellic acids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; though, their oral bioavailability is low. The aim of this study was evaluation of the clinical effectiveness of frankincense extract in the treatment of knee OA. In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, eligible patients with knee OA were randomly divided into two groups of drug (33 patients) and control (37 patients), to use oily solution of frankincense extract or placebo, respectively, on the involved knee three times daily for four weeks. WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index), VAS (visual analogue scale; for pain severity), and PGA (patient global assessment) scores were determined before and after intervention.

Results

For all evaluated outcome variables, there was a significant decrease from baseline in both groups (P < 0.001 for all). Furthermore, the end-of-intervention values for all parameters were significantly lower in drug group than placebo group (P < 0.001 for all), showing more effectiveness of drug compared to placebo.

Conclusion

Topical oily solution containing enriched extract of boswellic acids could decrease pain severity and improve the function in patients with knee OA.

Trial Registration Trial registration number: IRCT20150721023282N14. Trial registration date: September 20, 2020. The study was retrospectively registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT).
Can Alhaji maurorum as a halophyte plant be ensiled with molasses and Saccharomyces cerevisiae well?
Authors: Kazemi Mohsen , Valizadeh Reza
Published: March 2023

Alhagi maurorum(Caspian Manna, AM) is a species of legume found commonly in the semi-arid region of the world. Nutritional aspects of silage prepared from AM have not been scientifically investigated so far, therefore, in this study, chemical-mineral composition, gas production parameters, ruminal fermentation parameters, buffering capacity, and silage characteristics of AM were investigated by standard laboratory methods. Fresh AM was ensiled in the mini-silos (3.5 kg) and treated with (1) no additive (control), (2) 5% molasses, (3) 10% molasses, (4) 1 × 104CFU ofSaccharomyces cerevisiae[SC]/g of fresh silage, (5) 1 × 104CFU of SC/g of fresh silage + 5% molasses, (6) 1 × 104CFU of SC/g of fresh silage + 10% molasses, (7) 1 × 108CFU of SC/g of fresh silage, (8) 1 × 108CFU of SC/g of fresh silage + 5% molasses, and (9) 1 × 108CFU of SC/g of fresh silage + 10% molasses for 60 days. The lowest concentrations of NDF and ADF were related to treatments no. 6 and 5, respectively (p < 0.0001). The ash content as well as sodium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium were highest in treatment no 2. Silages containing 10% molasses (no. 3) had the highest and lowest lactic (p < 0.0001) and butyric (p < 0.0001) acids, respectively. The highest amount of potential gas production was observed in treatments no. 5 and 6, respectively (p < 0.0001). Total yeast was decreased with increasing molasses in the silages (p < 0.0001). Acid-base buffering capacity was also highest in treatments no. 6 and 5, respectively (p = 0.0003). In general, due to the fibrous nature of AM, it is recommended to add molasses at levels of 5 or 10% when ensiling. The silages containing SC at a lower level (1 × 104CFU) along with higher levels of molasses (10% of DM) had better ruminal digestion-fermentation characteristics compared to other silages. Also, the addition of molasses improved the internal fermentation characteristics of AM in the silo.
The impact of an online inquiry-based learning environment addressing misconceptions on students' performance
Authors: Siantuba Jackson , Nkhata Leonard , de Jong Ton
Published: March 2023

This study sought to develop and evaluate an online module based on inquiry learning with digital laboratories, which was intended to address students’ misconceptions in a science domain. In a quasi-experimental design, 171 first-year students in a higher education introductory physics course on circular motion were as their existing groups assigned to an experimental (n = 100) or a control (n = 71) condition. The experimental condition was developed by arranging online inquiry activities that would encourage students to probe five identified misconceptions. The control condition required students to engage in online inquiry following the traditional syllabus outline. Students in both conditions used the same type of digital laboratory setup. The participants learned about the topic of circular motion and their knowledge was assessed. Results of the knowledge test revealed that the experimental condition geared towards addressing students’ misconceptions facilitated conceptual change more than the control condition.
An experimental and numerical investigation of energy absorption of sportswear in seam area
Authors: Sajjadi Ali , Hosseini Seyed Abdolkarim , Ajeli Saeed , Mashayekhi Mohammad
Published: March 2023

This study aims to investigate the energy absorption of seam areas in sportswear. Weft knitted fabrics with two structures of plain and rib were fabricated by polyester/Lycra and viscose/ Lycra yarns. Fabrics were stitched in two stitch classes. Moreover, two types of seams were considered. A pull-out test was carried out on all samples to determine the energy absorption values. Furthermore, a finite element model was applied to predict the energy absorption of each structure. The unit cell of each sample was created in ABAQUS software and the tensile load was applied to the stitch yarn. The unit cells of the fabric and the stitched section were modeled in the meso-scale and then elastic and viscoelastic properties of the yarns were assigned to the model. The energy absorption of the sample with rib pattern, lapped seam, and 607 stitch class was more than other samples. Also, the numerical and experimental results showed a high correlation with each other in samples with 304 stitch class and flat seam type.
Food insecurity among families with infants born during the COVID-19 pandemic in Fortaleza, Northeast Brazil
Authors: Farías-Antúnez Simone , Machado Márcia Maria Tavares , Correia Luciano Lima , Rocha Hermano Alexandre Lima , Araújo David Augusto Batista Sá , Pinheiro Maria Suelly Nogueira , Aquino Camila Machado , Penna Ana Luiza , Castro Marcia C.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To assess the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) among families with infants born during the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated factors in Fortaleza, the fifth largest city in Brazil.

Methods

Data from two survey rounds of the Iracema-COVID cohort study collected at 12 (n = 325) and 18 months (n = 331) after birth. FI was measured using the Brazilian Household Food Insecurity Scale. FI levels were described according to potential predictors. Crude and adjusted logistic regressions with robust variance were used to assess factors associated with FI.

Results

In the 12- and 18-month follow-ups interviews, there was a 66.5% and 57.1% prevalence of FI, respectively. Over the study period, 3.5% of the families persisted in severe FI and 27.4% in mild/moderate FI. Households headed by mothers, with more children, low education and income, sustained maternal common mental disorders, and that were beneficiaries of cash transfer programs were the most affected by persistent FI.

Conclusions

Although the prevalence of FI decreased in our sample, almost 60% of families in Fortaleza still have no regular access to enough and/or nutritionally appropriate food. We have identified the groups at higher FI risk, which can guide governmental policies.
A scoping review of the impact of heat stress on the organs of the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Abdulkadir Abdurrahman , Reddy Deran
Published: March 2023

Background

Heat stress negatively affects poultry welfare, including the Japanese quail, especially in sub-Saharan African countries. The quail is vital to research and protein food security, which are affected by global warming. This study identified and reviewed the literature on the impact of heat stress on the Japanese quail organs to provide context for the problem and ways to mitigate it.

Main body

Eligible studies for this scoping review must be primarily animal-based experiments that include Japanese quail exposure to acute or chronic heat stress. Systematic reviews, theses and dissertations that meet these criteria were also eligible for use in this review. Reports that involved other types of quail species, eggs and or cell lines were not eligible and were excluded. The databases that were searched include MEDLINE (via PubMed), SCOPUS, CAB Abstracts (via CAB Direct) and Web of Sciences (All databases). A total of 4598 records were identified. After removing 105 duplicates, 4461 and 9 were excluded during the level 1 and 2 screening, respectively. Finally, 24 papers were included for data extraction. All eligible studies were primary animal experiments, and the average heat stress temperature level was 35.3 °C. Morphological findings of this scoping review include macrovesicular steatosis in the liver, necrosis of kidney tubular cells, dead and abnormal sperm cells in the testis, lung congestion, and neuronal degeneration resulting from heat stress exposure.

Conclusions

Heat stress negatively impacts the organs of the Japanese quail, causing cell death in the liver, brain and testis, which will affect the production and survival of the Japanese quail. In addition, some cost-effective dietary strategies tested in mitigating heat stress were recommended.
QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF NATURAL WATERS IN TERRITORIES IMPACTED BY THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY
Authors: Ivanov Vyacheslav B. , Komissarova Tat’yana S. , Shcherbakov Arkadiy V. , Yаkubec Ruslan R.
Published: March 2023

Background. The study area is one of the main regions of the Russian Federation, where intensive development and production of hydrocarbons are carried out. They are directly accompanied by a very significant anthropogenic impact on the environment in general, and on water bodies in particular. The article, based on the analysis of chemicals concentration in surface waters, bottom sediments and coastland soil, gives an assessment of water bodies quality on the territory of the oil and gas industry.

Purpose. The purpose of the study is to assess the quality of surface waters, benthic ecosystem and coastland soil of water bodies on the territory of oil and gas fields of the Middle Ob region.

Materials and methods. On the basis of chemical analysis, concentrations of chemical elements were determined in samples of surface waters, bottom sediments and coastland soil of water bodies. Based on the concentration of chemical elements in a particular environment, the index of surface water pollution was determined by the calculation method, the state of the coastland soil and the benthic ecosystem was assessed.

Results. The calculation of the integral assessment of water quality shows that the studied water bodies range from moderately polluted to extremely polluted. Quality deterioration of the benthic ecosystem is observed in most of the studied water bodies.

Conclusion. The study of the environmental condition of water bodies by the quality of surface waters, bottom sediments and the coastland soil shows the negative anthropogenic impact of the oil and gas industry on the studied water bodies.
HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN THE MODEL OF IRON DEFICIENCY AND HEMATOLOGICAL ANEMIA
Authors: Kolenchukova Oksana A. , Kolomeytsev Alexander V. , Kireeva Anna V. , Biryukova Elena A. , Loshcareva Margarita V. , Engevatkin Evgeny V.
Published: March 2023

According to the World Health Organization, the most common (up to 90% of cases) hematological pathology is anemia, a condition characterized by a decrease in the level of hemoglobin in the blood due to a decrease in the total number of red blood cells or a violation of hemoglobin synthesis, which can have serious consequences for the body, such as decreased immunity, impaired respiratory and metabolic processes. Currently, it is necessary to improve the methods of prevention and treatment of anemia. To test new drugs for these purposes, it is necessary to create new models, including on laboratory animals. The aim of the study was to develop experimental models of iron deficiency (IDA) and hemolytic anemia (HA) on laboratory animals. The objects of the study were sexually mature male laboratory rats of the Wistar breed, aged 7 months and weighing 260 ± 20 g. 38 animals were involved in the experiment (for IDA n= 24, for HA n= 14). Laboratory animals were kept in the same external conditions for 3-4 individuals in a cage. To simulate IDA, rats were subcutaneously injected with the drug “Desferal”. To simulate GA, rats were intraperitoneally injected with the drug “Hydrochloric acid phenylhydrozine”. At each stage, blood was taken by cutting off the tip of the tail. A detailed blood test was performed on a hematological analyzer “Heska Element HT5”. As a result, it was found that when the drug “Desferal” was administered at concentrations of 125 and 250 mg / 100g per animal weight, hematological changes were observed in rats, such as an increase in red blood cells, platelets, leukocytes by stage 2 and a decrease to control values by stage 4. When the drug “Hydrochloric acid phenylhydrozine” was administered, hematological changes were detected in rats only within the experimental group. There was an increase in the indicators of erythrocytes, platelets, leukocytes by stages 2 and 3 and a decrease to control values by stage 4. Thus, when the studied drugs were administered in the presented dosages in vivo, a change in the hematological parameters of the blood was detected in the direction of an increase in their number due to adaptation to the effects of substances.
DECREASE IN THE CONTENT OF REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES DURING INACTIVATION OF THE RESPIRATORY COMPLEX I IN ARABIDOPSIS CELLS
Authors: Tarasenko Vladislav I. , Garnik Elena Y. , Shmakov Vladimir N. , Konstantinov Yuri M.
Published: March 2023

Background. The mitochondrial electron transport chain, in particular the respiratory complex I, is one of the main sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in living cells. Suppression of the complex I activity in human cells through chemical inhibition or mutations that disrupt the functionality of this complex leads to a significant increase in the content of ROS. The complex I mutants are also known for plants; however, it is still not clear whether the suppression of the activity of this complex leads to an increase in the level of ROS and the development of oxidative stress.

Purpose. To study the level of superoxide, hydrogen peroxide and sensitivity to prooxidants in Arabidopsis ndufs4 cells with complex I inactivated by insertional mutagenesis.

Materials and methods. A suspension culture of wild-type Arabidopsis cells and a line with knockout the NDUFS4 complex I subunit was used. The level of hydrogen peroxide in the cells was determined using dichlorofluorescein. The superoxide content was estimated by cell staining in the presence of nitroblue tetrazolium.

Results. It has been shown that inactivation of the NADH-dehydrogenase complex in Arabidopsis cells due to the absence of one of its subunits leads to a decrease in the content of superoxide and hydrogen peroxide. It was also shown that the level of ROS in cells treated with the menadione and hydrogen peroxide increased several times in wild-type cells, but remained almost unchanged in ndufs4 cells.

Conclusion. Suppression of the activity of the NADH dehydrogenase complex in plant cells, but not in animal cells, leads to a decrease in the content of both hydrogen peroxide and superoxide. Cells of ndufs4 line have an increased ability to detoxify ROS, possibly associated with the constant mobilization of antioxidant defense systems.
PREVALENCE OF ALEXITHYMIA AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN REGIONS OF SIBERIA
Authors: Zaitseva Zhanna G. , Kolodyazhnaya Tatyana A. , Zaitseva Olga I. , Ignatova Irina A.
Published: March 2023

Aim. To study the prevalence of alexithymia among adolescents in the central (Krasnoyarsk city/Caucasians) and southern (Abakan, the Republic of Khakassia, Caucasians/Khakasses) regions of Siberia, taking into account ethnicity and gender differences.

Materials and methods. Interviewing schoolchildren of various ethnic backgrounds aged 15-18 years is carried out using the Toronto Alexithymic Scale (TAS-26).

Results. Mong Caucasian adolescents from different regions of residence (Krasnoyarsk and Abakan, the Republic of Khakassia), the prevalence rates of alexithymia were comparable (30,0% and 34,2%). For Khakas teenagers in Abakan, the Republic of Khakassia, this indicator (56.3%) was statistically significantly higher (p<0,001) in comparison with Caucasian teenagers, which we regard as a manifestation of the ethno-specific component of the Khakas personality in adolescence. Gender differences were established, manifested by a small number of non-alexithymic Khakass girls (6,8%) in comparison with Khakass boys (p=0,0360).

Conclusion. Identification among practically healthy adolescents of subjects with signs of alexithymia is necessary for the timely implementation of preventive measures, and corrective measures should be targeted at girls and boys. Rational implementation of preventive measures and dynamic monitoring of alexithymic adolescents will reduce the risk of psychosomatic disorders and the frequency of adverse outcomes.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF AVAILABLE METHODS OF CLEANING AND DISINFECTION OF REMOVABLE PLATE PROSTHESES FOR THE ELDERLY AND SENILE
Authors: Chizhov Yuri V. , Radkevich Andrey A. , Mitrofanov Pavel V. , Kazantseva Tamara V. , Babich Marina N. , Sokolovich Vladimir V.
Published: March 2023

Objective. To analyze three methods of cleaning and disinfection of removable plate prostheses (protected by patents) available for elderly and senile persons with psychoneurological diseases living in boarding schools.

Materials and methods. Technologies of application of the following methods of cleaning and disinfection of removable plate prostheses are described:

1) using an ultrasonic dispersant UZDN-A with a complex of individual reagents;

2) using the ozonizer-sterilizer « Ozon-stom»;

3) with the help of an ultrasonic washing machine «Retona» and an original complex of domestic reagents.

Results. Their positive and negative aspects are revealed; it is established: that each method carried out according to the instructions gives 100% disinfection of removable dentures; the most rational method of ultrasonic treatment with the use of a washing machine of the «Retona» type; for the removal of old and dense deposits of plaque, the method with the use of a dispersant UZDN-A is preferable; the method of ozonation for the elderly and senile people suffering from neuropsychiatric diseases can only be used with the participation of medical staff.

Conclusion. The considered methods of cleaning and disinfection of removable plate prostheses can be applied to a greater or lesser extent for the elderly and senile in residential homes of psycho-neurological profile, with complete success can be applied to this category of persons living in a family or in residential homes for the elderly without diseases of this profile. According to the volume of positive aspects, the method of cleaning removable plate prostheses using a washing machine of the “Retona” type and the original complex of domestic reagents is most preferable.