bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical utility of combined assessments of 4D volumetric perfusion CT, diffusion-weighted MRI and 18F-FDG PET-CT for the prediction of outcomes of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Tsuchiya Hirokazu , Matoba Munetaka , Nishino Yuka , Ota Kiyotaka , Doai Mariko , Nagata Hiroji , Tuji Hiroyuki
Published: February 2023

Background

Multiparametric imaging has been seen as a route to improved prediction of chemoradiotherapy treatment outcomes. Four-dimensional volumetric perfusion CT (4D PCT) is useful for whole-organ perfusion measurement, as it reflects the heterogeneity of the tumor and its perfusion parameters. However, there has been no study using multiparametric imaging including 4D PCT for the prognostic prediction of chemoradiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to determine whether combining assessments of 4D PCT with diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET-CT could enhance prognostic accuracy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients treated with chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

We examined 53 patients with HNSCC who underwent 4D PCT, DWI and PET-CT before chemoradiotherapy. The imaging and clinical parameters were assessed the relations to locoregional control (LRC) and progression-free survival (PFS) by logistic regression analyses. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to assess the accuracy of the significant parameters identified by the multivariate analysis for the prediction of LRC and PFS. We additionally assessed using the scoring system whether these independent parameters could have a complementary role for the prognostic prediction.

Results

The median follow-up was 30 months. In multivariate analysis, blood flow (BF; p = 0.02) and blood volume (BV; p = 0.04) were significant prognostic factors for LRC, and BF (p = 0.03) and skewness of the ADC histogram (p = 0.02) were significant prognostic factors for PFS. A significant positive correlation was found between BF and BV (ρ = 0.6, p < 0.001) and between BF and skewness (ρ = 0.46, p < 0.01). The ROC analysis showed that prognostic accuracy for LRC of BF, BV, and combination of BF and BV were 77.8%, 70%, and 92.9%, and that for PFS of BF, skewness, and combination of BF and skewness were 55.6%, 63.2%, and 77.5%, respectively. The scoring system demonstrated that the combination of higher BF and higher BV was significantly associated with better LRC (p = 0.04), and the combination of lower BF and lower skewness was significantly associated with worse PFS (p = 0.004).

Conclusion

A combination of parameters derived from 4DPCT and ADC histograms may enhance prognostic accuracy in HNSCC patients treated with chemoradiotherapy.
Maternal adverse childhood experiences and health-related quality of life in preschool children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Dezhong , Lin Li , Li Chunrong , Chen Weiqing , Zhang Yuying , Ren Yan , Guo Vivian Yawei
Published: February 2023

Background

The intergenerational association between maternal adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and their children’s health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is underexplored. This study aimed to examine such association in Chinese preschool children and to test the moderation role of children’s sex.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 4243 mother–child dyads who attended randomly selected preschools. Mothers self-reported their experience of 12 forms of ACEs, including emotional abuse, physical abuse, emotional neglect, physical neglect, intimate partner violence, substance abuse in the household, incarcerated household member, mental illness in household, parental death, parental separation or divorce, bullying, and community violence. Children’s HRQOL was evaluated through mother report of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory version 4.0. Linear regression models were established to estimate the associations between maternal ACEs and their children’s HRQOL sub-scores and total scores. Stratified analysis and test for interaction were further conducted to evaluate whether the associations were moderated by children’s sex.

Results

Of the included mothers, 85.8% (n = 3641) had reported exposure to at least one ACE, and 22.3% (n = 948) were exposed to three or more ACEs. Compared to children of mothers without any ACE exposure, those of mothers with 1, 2, or ≥ 3 ACEs all had significantly lower scores of physical, social, and school functioning, as well as lower psychosocial health summary score and total scale score in both crude and adjusted models. However, only children of mothers with two or more ACEs had significantly poorer emotional functioning when compared to their counterparts whose mothers had no ACE exposure. A significant dose-response pattern was also observed between the number of maternal ACEs and children’s HRQOL sub-scores and total scores. Stratified analysis revealed sex-specific pattern between maternal ACEs and their children’s HRQOL. Nonetheless, children’s sex was not a significant moderator.

Conclusions

Our study showed that preschool children of mothers who had any experience of ACEs were at risk of poorer HRQOL. Our findings indicated that screening maternal ACEs in young children and promoting targeted interventions might be a feasible way to mitigate or stop the potential negative intergenerational health and wellbeing implications of ACEs.
Upregulation of long intergenic non-coding RNA LINC00326 inhibits non-small cell lung carcinoma progression by blocking Wnt/β-catenin pathway through modulating the miR-657/dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 2 axis
Authors: Zhang Yingqian , Yuan Jiao , Guo Mengfei , Xiang Run , Xie Tianpeng , Zhuang Xiang , Dai Wei , Li Qiang , Lai Qi
Published: February 2023

Background

Long intergenic non-coding RNA 326 (LINC00326) modulates hepatocarcinogenic lipid metabolism. However, the ability of LINC00326 to modulate the highly aggressive non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is unknown. Here, LINC00326 in NSCLC was investigated, together with its effects on tumor malignancy and the underlying mechanisms of action.

Methods

LINC00326 levels in tumor tissues and cell lines were measured by Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Proliferation and apoptosis were assessed in cell lines by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), EdU staining assays and flow cytometry, respectively, and tumor growth was measured in mouse models. Possible microRNA targets of LINC00326 were predicted by bioinformatics and verified by RNA pull-down and immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays. Western blotting was used to evaluate the expression of Wnt/β-catenin-associated proteins.

Results

 LINC00326 was downregulated in tumor tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of LINC00326 stimulated NSCLC cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis in vitro, as well as enhancing xenograft tumor growth. LINC00326 sponged miR-657, and dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 2 (DKK2) was found to be directly targeted by miR-657, with LINC00326 positively regulating its expression through sponging miR-657. The actions of LINC00326 knockdown on proliferation and apoptosis were reversed by stimulation of the miR-657/DKK2 axis. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-657 mitigated DKK2 inhibition on Wnt/β-catenin signaling.

Conclusions

LINC00326/miR-657/DKK2 axis signaling blocked tumor-associated functions in NSCLC cells through the targeting Wnt/β-catenin pathway. This suggests that this pathway could be a target for NSCLC treatment.
Efficacy of oral, topical and extended-release injectable formulations of moxidectin combined with doxycycline in Dirofilaria immitis naturally infected dogs
Authors: Ciuca Lavinia , Vismarra Alice , Constanza Dario , Di Loria Antonio , Meomartino Leonardo , Ciaramella Paolo , Cringoli Giuseppe , Genchi Marco , Rinaldi Laura , Kramer Laura
Published: February 2023

Background

Several studies in both experimentally and naturally infected dogs have reported the adulticide effect of a combination of macrocyclic lactones and doxycycline against Dirofilaria immitis, showing that these protocols can be used as an alternative to melarsomine. The present study evaluated the efficacy of oral, topical and extended-release injectable formulations of moxidectin when combined with doxycycline in dogs naturally infected with D. immitis from a shelter located in southern Italy.

Methods

Thirty dogs with naturally acquired D. immitis infection were divided in three groups (G) and treated with oral moxidectin (G1) once a month for 9 consecutive months, topical moxidectin (G2) once a month for 9 consecutive months or extended release moxidectin injectable (G3) at enrolment and again at 6 months (Day 180). All treatment groups received doxycycline for the first 30 days. Microfilarial concentrations in 1 ml (mff/ml) blood were determined monthly for 9 months with the modified Knott’s test. A clinical scoring system was employed for each dog enrolled in the study based on thoracic radiography and cardiac ultrasound (CU) examinations performed at Day − 15 (before treatment) and at Day 180.

Results

Results from the present study suggest that the majority of dogs from all treatment groups became antigen negative, as evaluated at Day 270: 9/10 dogs (90.0%) from G1, 6/10 dogs (60.0%) from G2 and 8/10 dogs (80.0%) from G3. Improvement of radiographic alterations was observed in all treatment groups, and almost all dogs were cleared of pulmonary abnormalities by 6 months from the beginning of treatment (P = 0.000). Cardiac ultrasound examination showed a progressive improvement of cardiac function in a limited number of animals (4/30).

Conclusions

The combination of doxycycline and three different formulations of moxidectin leads to antigen-negative status in naturally infected dogs.
How to approach machine learning-based prediction of drug/compound–target interactions
Authors: Atas Guvenilir Heval , Doğan Tunca
Published: February 2023

The identification of drug/compound–target interactions (DTIs) constitutes the basis of drug discovery, for which computational predictive approaches have been developed. As a relatively new data-driven paradigm, proteochemometric (PCM) modeling utilizes both protein and compound properties as a pair at the input level and processes them via statistical/machine learning. The representation of input samples (i.e., proteins and their ligands) in the form of quantitative feature vectors is crucial for the extraction of interaction-related properties during the artificial learning and subsequent prediction of DTIs. Lately, the representation learning approach, in which input samples are automatically featurized via training and applying a machine/deep learning model, has been utilized in biomedical sciences. In this study, we performed a comprehensive investigation of different computational approaches/techniques for protein featurization (including both conventional approaches and the novel learned embeddings), data preparation and exploration, machine learning-based modeling, and performance evaluation with the aim of achieving better data representations and more successful learning in DTI prediction. For this, we first constructed realistic and challenging benchmark datasets on small, medium, and large scales to be used as reliable gold standards for specific DTI modeling tasks. We developed and applied a network analysis-based splitting strategy to divide datasets into structurally different training and test folds. Using these datasets together with various featurization methods, we trained and tested DTI prediction models and evaluated their performance from different angles. Our main findings can be summarized under 3 items: (i) random splitting of datasets into train and test folds leads to near-complete data memorization and produce highly over-optimistic results, as a result, should be avoided, (ii) learned protein sequence embeddings work well in DTI prediction and offer high potential, despite interaction-related properties (e.g., structures) of proteins are unused during their self-supervised model training, and (iii) during the learning process, PCM models tend to rely heavily on compound features while partially ignoring protein features, primarily due to the inherent bias in DTI data, indicating the requirement for new and unbiased datasets. We hope this study will aid researchers in designing robust and high-performing data-driven DTI prediction systems that have real-world translational value in drug discovery.
New frontiers in healthcare environmental hygiene: thoughts from the 2022 healthcare cleaning forum
Authors: Peters Alexandra , Parneix Pierre , Kiernan Martin , Severin Juliëtte A. , Gauci Tracey , Pittet Didier
Published: February 2023

Healthcare environmental hygiene (HEH) has become recognized as being increasingly important for patient safety and the prevention of healthcare-associated infections. At the 2022 Healthcare Cleaning Forum at Interclean in Amsterdam, the academic lectures focused on a series of main areas of interest. These areas are indicative of some of the main trends and avenues for research in the coming years. Both industry and academia need to take steps to continue the momentum of HEH as we transition out of the acute phase of the Covid-19 pandemic. There is a need for new ways to facilitate collaboration between the academic and private sectors. The Clean Hospitals® network was presented in the context of the need for both cross-disciplinarity and evidence-based interventions in HEH. Governmental bodies have also become more involved in the field, and both the German DIN 13603 standard and the UK NHS Cleaning Standards were analyzed and compared. The challenge of environmental pathogens was explored through the example of how P. aeruginosa persists in the healthcare environment. New innovations in HEH were presented, from digitalization to tracking, and automated disinfection to antimicrobial surfaces. The need for sustainability in HEH was also explored, focusing on the burden of waste, the need for a circular economy, and trends towards increasingly local provision of goods and services. The continued focus on and expansion of these areas of HEH will result in safer patient care and contribute to better health systems.
Targeting galectin-3 to counteract spike-phase uncoupling of fast-spiking interneurons to gamma oscillations in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Arroyo-García Luis Enrique , Bachiller Sara , Ruiz Rocío , Boza-Serrano Antonio , Rodríguez-Moreno Antonio , Deierborg Tomas , Andrade-Talavera Yuniesky , Fisahn André
Published: February 2023

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive multifaceted neurodegenerative disorder for which no disease-modifying treatment exists. Neuroinflammation is central to the pathology progression, with evidence suggesting that microglia-released galectin-3 (gal3) plays a pivotal role by amplifying neuroinflammation in AD. However, the possible involvement of gal3 in the disruption of neuronal network oscillations typical of AD remains unknown.

Methods

Here, we investigated the functional implications of gal3 signaling on experimentally induced gamma oscillations ex vivo (20–80 Hz) by performing electrophysiological recordings in the hippocampal CA3 area of wild-type (WT) mice and of the 5×FAD mouse model of AD. In addition, the recorded slices from WT mice under acute gal3 application were analyzed with RT-qPCR to detect expression of some neuroinflammation-related genes, and amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque load was quantified by immunostaining in the CA3 area of 6-month-old 5×FAD mice with or without Gal3 knockout (KO).

Results

Gal3 application decreased gamma oscillation power and rhythmicity in an activity-dependent manner, which was accompanied by impairment of cellular dynamics in fast-spiking interneurons (FSNs) and pyramidal cells. We found that the gal3-induced disruption was mediated by the gal3 carbohydrate-recognition domain and prevented by the gal3 inhibitor TD139, which also prevented Aβ42-induced degradation of gamma oscillations. Furthermore, the 5×FAD mice lacking gal3 (5×FAD-Gal3KO) exhibited WT-like gamma network dynamics and decreased Aβ plaque load.

Conclusions

We report for the first time that gal3 impairs neuronal network dynamics by spike-phase uncoupling of FSNs, inducing a network performance collapse. Moreover, our findings suggest gal3 inhibition as a potential therapeutic strategy to counteract the neuronal network instability typical of AD and other neurological disorders encompassing neuroinflammation and cognitive decline.
Production, purification, characterization and application of two novel endoglucanases from buffalo rumen metagenome
Authors: Meng Zhenxiang , Yang Chengjian , Leng Jing , Zhu Weiyun , Cheng Yanfen
Published: February 2023

Background

Lignocellulose biomass is the most abundant and renewable material in nature. The objectives of this study were to characterize two endoglucanases TrepCel3 and TrepCel4, and determine the effect of the combination of them (1.2 mg TrepCel3, 0.8 mg TrepCel4) on in vitro rumen fermentation characteristics. In this study, three nature lignocellulosic substrates (rice straw, RS; wheat straw, WS; leymus chinensis, LC) were evaluated for their in vitro digestibility, gas, NH3-N and volatile fatty acid (VFA) production, and microbial protein (MCP) synthesis by adding enzymatic combination.

Methods

Two endoglucanases’ genes were successfully expressed in Escherichia coli (E. coli) BL21 (DE3), and enzymatic characteristics were further characterized. The combination of TrepCel3 and TrepCel4 was incubated with lignocellulosic substrates to evaluate its hydrolysis ability.

Results

The maximum enzymatic activity of TrepCel3 was determined at pH 5.0 and 40 °C, while TrepCel4 was at pH 6.0 and 50 °C. They were stable over the temperature range of 30 to 60 °C, and active within the pH range of 4.0 to 9.0. The TrepCel3 and TrepCel4 had the highest activity in lichenan 436.9 ± 8.30 and 377.6 ± 6.80 U/mg, respectively. The combination of TrepCel3 and TrepCel4 exhibited the highest efficiency at the ratio of 60:40. Compared to maximum hydrolysis of TrepCel3 or TrepCel4 separately, this combination was shown to have a superior ability to maximize the saccharification yield from lignocellulosic substrates up to 188.4% for RS, 236.7% for wheat straw WS, 222.4% for LC and 131.1% for sugar beet pulp (SBP). Supplemental this combination enhanced the dry matter digestion (DMD), gas, NH3-N and VFA production, and MCP synthesis during in vitro rumen fermentation.

Conclusions

The TrepCel3 and TrepCel4 exhibited the synergistic relationship (60:40) and significantly increased the saccharification yield of lignocellulosic substrates. The combination of them stimulated in vitro rumen fermentation of lignocellulosic substrates. This combination has the potential to be a feed additive to improve agricultural residues utilization in ruminants. If possible, in the future, experiments in vivo should be carried out to fully evaluate its effect.
Movement predictability of individual barn owls facilitates estimation of home range size and survival
Authors: Cain Shlomo , Solomon Tovale , Leshem Yossi , Toledo Sivan , Arnon Eitam , Roulin Alexandre , Spiegel Orr
Published: February 2023

Background

There is growing attention to individuality in movement, its causes and consequences. Similarly to other well-established personality traits (e.g., boldness or sociability), conspecifics also differ repeatedly in their spatial behaviors, forming behavioral types (“spatial-BTs”). These spatial-BTs are typically described as the difference in the mean-level among individuals, and the intra-individual variation (IIV, i.e., predictability) is only rarely considered. Furthermore, the factors determining predictability or its ecological consequences for broader space-use patterns are largely unknown, in part because predictability was mostly tested in captivity (e.g., with repeated boldness assays). Here we test if (i) individuals differ in their movement and specifically in their predictability. We then investigate (ii) the consequences of this variation for home-range size and survival estimates, and (iii) the factors that affect individual predictability.

Methods

We tracked 92 barn owls (Tyto alba) with an ATLAS system and monitored their survival. From these high-resolution (every few seconds) and extensive trajectories (115.2 ± 112.1 nights; X̅ ± SD) we calculated movement and space-use indices (e.g., max-displacement and home-range size, respectively). We then used double-hierarchical and generalized linear mix-models to assess spatial-BTs, individual predictability in nightly max-displacement, and its consistency across time. Finally, we explored if predictability levels were associated with home-range size and survival, as well as the seasonal, geographical, and demographic factors affecting it (e.g., age, sex, and owls’ density).

Results

Our dataset (with 74 individuals after filtering) revealed clear patterns of individualism in owls’ movement. Individuals differed consistently both in their mean movement (e.g., max-displacement) and their IIV around it (i.e., predictability). More predictable individuals had smaller home-ranges and lower survival rates, on top and beyond the expected effects of their spatial-BT (max-displacement), sex, age and ecological environments. Juveniles were less predictable than adults, but the sexes did not differ in their predictability.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that individual predictability may act as an overlooked axis of spatial-BT with potential implications for relevant ecological processes at the population level and individual fitness. Considering how individuals differ in their IIV of movement beyond the mean-effect can facilitate understanding the intraspecific diversity, predicting their responses to changing ecological conditions and their population management.
Differential associations between childhood maltreatment types and borderline personality disorder from the perspective of emotion dysregulation
Authors: Yuan Yan , Lee Hyunji , Newhill Christina E. , Eack Shaun M. , Fusco Rachel , Scott Lori N.
Published: February 2023

Background

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterized by pervasive instability in a range of areas including interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affect. Extant studies have consistently identified significant correlations between childhood maltreatment (CM) and BPD. While exploring this CM-BPD link, a number of cross-sectional studies commonly emphasize the role of emotion dysregulation (ED). A better understanding of the associations between BPD and (1) CM and (2) ED are essential in formulating early, effective intervention approaches, and in addressing varied adverse impacts.

Methods

This cross-sectional study analyzed a subset of baseline data collected for a larger community-based longitudinal study. Given that our current focus on CM and ED, only those participants who completed the baseline CM assessment and ED measure (N = 144) were included for the primary analyses. We conducted stepwise multivariate linear models to examine the differential relationships between BPD features, ED, and multiple CM types. A path analysis with latent factors using the structural equation modeling (SEM) method was performed to test the indirect effect from CM to BPD features via ED.

Results

Linear regression models revealed that only emotional abuse (relative to other trauma types) was significantly associated with high BPD features. The SEM, by constructing direct and indirect effects simultaneously, showed that (1) ED partially mediated the path from CM to BPD features; and (2) CM played an important role in which the direct effect remained significant even after accounting for the indirect effect through ED.

Conclusions

Our results highlight a most consistent association between emotional abuse and BPD, indicating its unique role in understanding BPD features in the context of CM. Further, shame-related negative appraisal and ED were found critical when examining the association between CM and BPD, possibly providing promising treatment targets for future practices.
Dosimetric impact of 3D motion-compensated SPECT reconstruction for SIRT planning
Authors: Vergnaud Laure , Robert Antoine , Baudier Thomas , Parisse-Di Martino Sandrine , Boissard Philippe , Rit Simon , Badel Jean-Noël , Sarrut David
Published: February 2023

Background

In selective internal radiation therapy, 99mTc SPECT images are used to optimize patient treatment planning, but they are affected by respiratory motion. In this study, we evaluated on patient data the dosimetric impact of motion-compensated SPECT reconstruction on several volumes of interest (VOI), on the tumor-to-normal liver (TN) ratio and on the activity to be injected.

Methods

Twenty-nine patients with liver cancer or hepatic metastases treated by radioembolization were included in this study. The biodistribution of 90Y is assumed to be the same as that of 99mTc when predictive dosimetry is implemented. A total of 31 99mTc SPECT images were acquired and reconstructed with two methods: conventional OSEM (3D) and motion-compensated OSEM (3Dcomp). Seven VOI (liver, lungs, tumors, perfused liver, hepatic reserve, healthy perfused liver and healthy liver) were delineated on the CT or obtained by thresholding SPECT images followed by Boolean operations. Absorbed doses were calculated for each reconstruction using Monte Carlo simulations. Percentages of dose difference (PDD) between 3Dcomp and 3D reconstructions were estimated as well as the relative differences for TN ratio and activities to be injected. The amplitude of movement was determined with local rigid registration of the liver between the 3Dcomp reconstructions of the extreme phases of breathing.

Results

The mean amplitude of the liver was 9.5 ± 2.7 mm. Medians of PDD were closed to zero for all VOI except for lungs (6.4%) which means that the motion compensation overestimates the absorbed dose to the lungs compared to the 3D reconstruction. The smallest lesions had higher PDD than the largest ones. Between 3D and 3Dcomp reconstructions, means of differences in lung dose and TN ratio were not statistically significant, but in some cases these differences exceed 1 Gy (4/31) and 8% (2/31). The absolute differences in activity were on average 3.1% ± 5.1% and can reach 22.8%.

Conclusion

The correction of respiratory motion mainly impacts the lung and tumor doses but only for some patients. The largest dose differences are observed for the smallest lesions.
Simple and rapid method for analysis of urinary vancomycin using solid phase extraction and fluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Oshima Yuki , Hori Mizuki , Matsumoto Miyu , Kato Masaru
Published: February 2023

Vancomycin (VCM) is an antimicrobial that is recommended for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) for maintaining the efficacy and safety of treatment. The trough monitoring has been used to guide VCM dosing regimens. However, newer guidelines recommend the use of area under the curve/minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC/MIC)-guided vancomycin dosing, and there is a need for easier and more frequent measurements of VCM concentrations. Therefore, in this study, we developed a simple and rapid analytical method for measuring urinary VCM by combining solid-phase extraction and fluorescence analysis. Urine samples are easier and less invasive than blood samples. In addition to the therapeutic range of blood VCM, this method was also able to measure 0.01–1 mg/mL, which is the concentration range of urinary VCM. The accuracy of 10, 20, and 30 μg/mL VCM solutions were between 93.18 and 109.76%. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of intra-day and inter-day analysis were less than 6.25% and 6.28%, respectively. Since this method does not use large equipment, it is expected to be better suited for clinical use.
An analysis of fatal adverse conditions in temporal association of COVID-19 vaccination to boost the safety of vaccination for COVID-19
Authors: Muslim Shahnawaz , Mustafa Gulam , Nasrin Nasrin , Firdaus Aaisha , Singh Shambhu Kumar
Published: February 2023

SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, claimed multiple lives in a very short span of time. Seeing the urgency of situation, vaccines were developed in hitherto unseen time frame. Vaccines definitely passed the test of safety and efficacy in clinical trials, but post mass vaccination data revealed cases of fatal adverse conditions in the temporal association of vaccination.

The temporal association does not guarantee that the fatality is due to vaccination, but at the same time, it does create a concern. To overcome this concern and improve the safety of vaccination, we reviewed literature and collected data of 15 studies comprising of total 22 cases of fatal adverse condition/death in the temporal association of COVID-19 vaccination.

Analysis of these data shows that many persons (40.90%) who succumbed were previously healthy individuals. All those who died developed symptoms or were admitted to hospital within a period of 3 weeks after vaccination. 86.36% cases of death took place within a period of 3 weeks after vaccination/presentation/admission/intervention. Complications which lead to death were CVST, thrombocytopenia/thrombosis /VITT, DIC and haemorrhage in 81.18% of cases. 81.81% cases of death were noted in the temporal association with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine. 68.18% persons developed symptoms after first dose. Death was more common in females (59.09%), and the most commonly affected age group was 20 to 60 years (86.36%).

Knowledge of fatal adverse conditions in the temporal association of vaccination will help to tackle these situations well and improve the safety of vaccination drive further.
Post-fracture care program in Egypt: merging subsequent fracture prevention and improving patients’ outcomes—an initiative by the Egyptian Academy of Bone Health
Authors: El Miedany Yasser , Hasab El Naby Mona M. , Abu-Zaid Mohammed Hassan , Mahran Safaa , Eissa Mervat , Saber Heba Gamal , Tabra Samar Abdalhamed , Ibrahim Rehab Ali , Galal Salwa , Elwakil Walaa
Published: February 2023

Background

Despite the associated high prevalence of morbidity and mortality, osteoporotic fragility fractures remain underdiagnosed and undertreated. Furthermore, those who sustain a fragility fracture are at imminent risk of sustaining subsequent fractures. Post-fracture care (PFC) programs are systematic, coordinated care programs that recognize, evaluate, and manage older adults who sustained a fragility fracture with the goal of managing all the risk factors and preventing succeeding fractures.

Main text

This work was carried out to outline the PFC program adopted in Egypt and its applicability in standard clinical practice. A review of literature was conducted to identify an evidence-informed PFC strategies and protocols, which outlines the optimal manner to manage older adults living with fragility fractures. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist was used to guide the reporting of this review. Based on this, a PFC integrated model of care based on a patient-centered approach has been developed aiming to optimize the outcomes.

Conclusion

This manuscript described the integrated model of care adopted in Egypt to provide care for older adults presenting with fragility fractures. This will pave the way to standardize patient identification and management. Additionally, to prevent occurrence of subsequent fractures and to enhance equity of care for patients with fragility fracture and osteoporosis, expansion of such service to rural and remote areas is highly recommended.
Enhanced electron heating in the magnetic nozzle of a radio-frequency plasma via electron cyclotron resonance
Authors: Vinci Alfio E. , Mazouffre Stéphane
Published: February 2023

The effect of electron cyclotron resonance on the electron flow is experimentally examined in the magnetic nozzle of a radio-frequency plasma source powered at 13.56 MHz under a series of operating conditions. Measurements of the electron energy probability function show that the bulk of electrons is effectively heated when the external magnetic field meets the cyclotron resonance condition in the proximity of the antenna. A careful tuning of the magnetic field topology inside the plasma source leads to a gain in electron density and temperature up to about 20% and 40%, respectively.
Fiber Density and Structural Brain Connectome in Glioblastoma Are Correlated With Glioma Cell Infiltration
Authors: Yang Jia , Zhang Xiaowei , Gao Xinya , Wu Honglin , Li Xixi , Yang Lixuan , Zhang Nu
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

Glioblastoma (GBM) preferred to infiltrate into white matter (WM) beyond the recognizable tumor margin.

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate whether fiber density (FD) and structural brain connectome can provide meaningful information about WM destruction and glioma cell infiltration.

METHODS:

GBM cases were collected based on inclusion criteria, and baseline information and preoperative MRI results were obtained. GBM lesions were automatically segmented into necrosis, contrast-enhanced tumor, and edema areas. We obtained the FD map to compute the FD and lnFD values in each subarea and reconstructed the structural brain connectome to obtain the topological metrics in each subarea. We also divided the edema area into a nonenhanced tumor (NET) area and a normal WM area based on the contralesional lnFD value in the edema area, and computed the NET ratio.

RESULTS:

Twenty-five GBM cases were included in this retrospective study. The FD/lnFD value and topological metrics (aCp, aLp, aEg, aEloc, and ar) were significantly correlated with GBM subareas, which represented the extent of WM destruction and glioma cell infiltration. The FD/lnFD values and topological parameters were correlated with the NET ratio. In particular, the lnFD value in the edema area was correlated with the NET ratio (coefficient, 0.92). Therefore, a larger lnFD value indicates more severe glioma infiltration in the edema area and suggests an extended resection for better clinical outcomes.

CONCLUSION:

The FD and structural brain connectome in this study provide a new insight into glioma infiltration and a different consideration of their clinical application in neuro-oncology.
Advancements and Technical Considerations for Extracellular Vesicle Isolation and Biomarker Identification in Glioblastoma
Authors: Cumba Garcia Luz M. , Bouchal Samantha M. , Bauman Megan M. J. , Parney Ian F.
Published: February 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-bound particles released by all cells. Previous research has found that these microscopic vesicles contribute to intercellular signaling and communication. EVs carry a variety of cargo, including nucleic acids, proteins, metabolites, and lipids. The composition of EVs varies based on cell of origin. Therefore, EVs can serve as an important biomarker in the diagnosis and treatment of various cancers. EVs derived from glioblastoma (GBM) cells carry biomarkers, which could serve as the basis for a potential diagnostic strategy known as liquid biopsy. Multiple EV isolation techniques exist, including ultrafiltration, size exclusion chromatography, flow field-flow fractionation, sequential filtration, differential ultracentrifugation, and density-gradient ultracentrifugation. Recent and ongoing work aims to identify cellular markers to distinguish GBM-derived EVs from those released by noncancerous cells. Strategies include proteomic analysis of GBM EVs, identification of GBM-specific metabolites, and use of Food and Drug Administration-approved 5-aminolevulinic acid—an oral agent that causes fluorescence of GBM cells—to recognize GBM EVs in a patient's blood. In addition, accurately and precisely monitoring changes in EV cargo concentrations could help differentiate between pseudoprogression and GBM recurrence, thus preventing unnecessary surgical interventions.
Monetary Policy When the Central Bank Shapes Financial-Market Sentiment
Authors: Kashyap Anil K , Stein Jeremy C.
Published: February 2023

Recent research has found that monetary policy works in part by influencing the risk premiums on both traded financial-market securities and intermediated loans. Research has also shown that when risk premiums are compressed, there is an increased likelihood of a reversal that damages the credit-supply mechanism and the real economy. Together these effects create an intertemporal tradeoff for monetary policy, as stimulating the economy today can sow the seeds of a future downturn that might be difficult to offset. We draw out some implications of this tradeoff for the conduct of monetary policy.
Visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio predicts short-term mortality in patients with Covid 19. A multicenter study
Authors: Surov Alexey , Thormann Maximilian , Kardas Hakan , Hinnerichs Mattes , Omari Jazan , Cingöz Eda , Cingöz Mehmet , Dursun Memduh , Kormaz İnan , Orhan Çağrı , Yıldız Ömer , Hocaoğlu Elif , Inci Ercan , Önder Hakan , Erk Hamdullah , Chousein Ougkour , Sasani Hadi , Gönen Korcan Aysun , Pech Maciej , Wienke Andreas
Published: February 2023

Objective:

To evaluate the association of body composition parameters with outcomes in Covid-19.

Methods:

173 patients hospitalized for Covid-19 infection in 6 European centers were included in this retrospective study. Measurements were performed at L3-level and comprised skeletal muscle index (SMI), muscle density (MD), and adipose tissue measurements [visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), visceral-to-subcutaneous-adipose-tissue-area-ratio (VSR)]. The association with mortality, the need for intubation (MV), and the need for admission to ICU within 30 days were evaluated.

Results:

Higher SAT density was associated with a greater risk of MV (OR = 1.071, 95%CI=(1.034;1.110), p < 0.001). Higher VAT density was associated with admission to ICU (OR = 1.068, 95%CI=(1.029;1.109), p < 0.001). Higher MD was a protective factor for MV and ICU admission (OR = 0.914, 95%CI=(0.870;0.960), p < 0.001; OR = 0.882, 95%CI=(0.832;0.934), p = 0.028). Higher VSR was associated with mortality (OR = 2.147, 95%CI=(1.022;4.512), p = 0.044). Male sex showed the strongest influence on the risk of ICU admission and MV. SMI was not associated with either parameter.

Conclusion:

In patients hospitalized for Covid-19 infection, higher VSR seems to be a strong prognostic factor of short-term mortality. Weak associations with clinical course were found for MD and adipose tissue measurements. Male sex was the strongest prognostic factor of adverse clinical course.

Advances in knowledge:

VSR is a prognostic biomarker for 30-day mortality in patients hospitalized for Covid-19 disease.
THE CONCEPT OF FORMATION OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND SOCIOPSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS OF PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS OF SOCIOLOGISTS
Authors: Ashurbekov R. , Chernikova Ya.
Published: February 2023

The concept of forming the professional competence of students of sociologists consists of elements that form their professional competence. Currently, the processes of digitalization of society have a serious impact on the need to develop adaptability and mobility skills, which implies the availability of appropriate knowledge and skills. Proper professional training of a sociologist student will allow you to acquire positive socio-psychological expectations that will determine his field of activity. A distinctive feature of the educational activity of such a student is the need for professional self-determination, which requires the use of certain resources. The formation of a sociologist student as a competent specialist goes through several stages throughout the entire period of study, which allows you to form the necessary skills and abilities to continue your professional activity and career growth after graduation from university.
Dry eye syndrome - vicious circle mechanism of disease
Authors: Dybała Ewelina , Dybała-Przygrodzka Izabela , Aghadi Artur , Cuber Iwona , Białowąs Edyta , Mazurek Magdalena
Published: February 2023

The correct structure of the tear film ensures the appropriate degree of hydration of the eye surface, and has a protective and nourishing function. Irregularities in the structure of one of the three layers of the tear film can contribute to dry eye syndrome. In recent studies, scientists have focused on dysfunction of the Meibomian gland and on deficiencies in the lipid layer of the tear film, which led to the evolution of preparation complementing the tear film. Dry eye syndrome is a multifactorial disease of the ocular surface. Symptoms vary from itching, burning, irritation, eye strain and eye inflammation to potential complications that include damage to the cornea, conjunctiva, and even loss of vision.  Blurred vision is a component of the definition of DSO (apart from discomfort, tear film instability, changes in tear osmolarity, changes in neurosensory and specific inflammation on the surface of the eye). Changes in the thickness of the tear film translate into changes in the breaking power of the eye. It is believed that for every 0.1 mm change in tear film thickness, there is 0.5 D in the "+" or "-" direction. The result of aberration is the lack of a sharp, dotted image.Treatment is adjusted individually for each patient, based on the underlying disease mechanism. Recent studies have shown that dry eye is an inflammatory disease that shares many characteristics with autoimmune diseases. The main goal of this work is to present an outline of epidemiology, pathogenesis, risk factors and treatment methods.
Effectiveness of Information Technology (IT) Classroom Learning on Motivation and Careers Students of Junior High School
Authors: Sundari Siti , Muchlas Muchlas , Sayuti Muhammad
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this research is to analyze the level of effectiveness of the information technology-based learning process for increasing students' learning motivation and careers at SMP Muhammadiyah 2 Cilacap and to analyze the differences in the results of the learning process between information technology classes and regular classes.

The research activity was carried out using a quantitative descriptive method with a total of 76 subjects. Data collection related to the above objectives used a questionnaire. The data that has been collected is then analyzed using a real difference test, namely the independent sample t-test.

The results showed an increase in the effectiveness of the learning process and the growth of learning motivation in students. However, about careers and insight into students' careers. The results showed that the insight into the careers of the students of SMP Muhammadiyah 2 Cilacap was not optimal. Then the learning outcomes shown also experienced differences between the information technology class and the regular class.
Compatibility of the English Needs of Automation and Office Governance Majors Students to The 2013 English Curriculum
Authors: Puspita Dewi Lina , Rukmini Dwi , Susanto Arif , Samanhudi Udi
Published: February 2023

English teaching in Vocational High School can be taken into account as English for Specific Purposes (ESP) since vocational education aims to prepare students to be a professional in the specific field of work. ESP is designed according to the needs and purposes of the learners in learning the targeted-language. This paper aims to check whether the latest 2013 English curriculum has met the vocational high school students’ needs or not. This study was done in a public vocational high school in Blora regency, Central Java. The data was collected by using observation checklist, questionnaires, and study document. The observation was done to investigate the practice of the 2013 English curriculum in the Automation and Office Governance Major. The questionnaires were given to the students, graduates, and users of graduates to analysis the English needs. Study documents were used to confirm whether the practice and documents prepared by the English teacher is suitable with the curriculum or not.
Impact of Covid-19 on The Aquaculture Sector Freshwater Fish Farmers in Kelantan-
Authors: Jusoh Nurfarida , Ismail Zalina , Abdul Mutalib Asilah , Ab Latif Zahidah , Che Man Shaibatul ’ Islamiah
Published: February 2023

The spread of the Covid-19 virus has affected the freshwater aquaculture industry in Malaysia. Due to this pandemic, freshwater fish products and demand decreased, followed by labor problems. Therefore, this study aims to identify freshwater farmers’ level of knowledge, perception and practices of freshwater farmers related to the Covid-19 pandemic. The study was conducted using a quantitative method to collect data. The study was conducted using an online questionnaire instrument and also survey forms were distributed to respondents in Machang, Tanah Merah and Kota Bharu. A total of 59 responses was returned. The survey was open for one month between November 15th and December 15th, 2021. The data was analysed using IBM SPPS software version 24.0 to obtain the frequency, percentage and descriptive analysis to analyse the level of knowledge, perception and practices of farmer and relationship between farmer knowledge, perception and practices about Covid-19. This study's outcome indicates that the farmer knowledge is related to farmer practices in dealing with this problem as the spread of this virus occurs rapidly. In conclusion, this research showed that the level of farmers’ knowledge, perception and practices toward Covid-19 effect is high. Directly, it will help farmers prevent the spread of this virus, helps farmers understand and be aware of Covid-19 issues and helps farmers implement good practice to reduce the risk in aquaculture activities, especially in this COVID-19 situation. This research would contribute positive impacts by finding new novel theories that can become the reference and guideline.
Characteristics of Zuhud or Asceticism in The Qur`an
Authors: Astuti Sri
Published: February 2023

This article discusses the study of thematic interpretation (mawḍū‘ī) methodologically. The mawḍū'ī method is to collect verses of the Qur'an related to one topic or one goal. The thematic approach in understanding the verses of the Qur'an is to understand the meaning contained in the verse by studying other traditions related to the same topic of discussion and paying attention to their respective correlations so that a complete understanding is obtained.One of the topics that the author will discuss is zuhud. The definition of zuhud according to the Big Indonesian Dictionary is about leaving the world; Hermitage According to Sufyan bin Uyaynah, zuhud is divided into three letters, namely Za', Ha', and Dal. It means Za' is tarku az-Zina (leaving adultery), Ha' is tarku al-Hawa (leaving lust), and Dal is tarku al-Dunya (leaving the world). Meanwhile, according to Ibn Taymiyyah, zuhud is eliminating desire (desire) and eliminating hatred for something.Based on the understanding of zuhud mentioned by Imam Ghazali, generally it is the answer of most people regarding zuhud which will focus on Sufism. Some people also think that zuhud is only limited to leaving wealth, because leaving wealth and showing poverty is an easy thing for anyone who wants to say that he is a zahid. Actually zuhud is an attitude of sincerity in the heart towards the limitations and advantages one has. However, there are many different opinions regarding the meaning and practitioners of zuhud itself. Therefore, this paper intends to examine the meaning of zuhud more deeply by bringing in verses from the Qur'an and related traditions through the study of thematic interpretation.