bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics, risk factors and treatment outcome of acute heart failure patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Ejegu Yitagesu , Mekonnen Desalew , Fekadu Chala , Seleshi Tigist , Markos Sura , Tesfaye Demu , Tadesse Konno , Kaki Melese , Arega Balew , Solomon Samra
Published: June 2024

Background
Acute Heart failure is associated with high mortality and re-hospitalization rates. Clinical severity and in-hospital trajectory are determined by the complex interplay between precipitants, the underlying cardiac substrate, and the patient’s comorbidities.
Objective
To determine predictors of outcome of acute heart failure and to characterize clinical profile, risk factors and identify predictors of poor outcome.
Methods
A facility based cross sectional study. All medical records of Heart failure patients age of 14 years and above who visited the adult emergency department of study hospital between 1st of March, 2023 and end of December, 2023. Data from 161 eligible medical records were collected on a structured questionnaire adopted from standard Heart failure registries.
Results
Females were (N = 84, 52.2%) of the study population, the mean age was 41.4. Those with age of 40 and below were the majority of the population (N = 84, 52.2%). The most common primary etiology of Heart failure was Rheumatic Heart disease (N = 77, 47.8%), followed by ischemic heart disease (N = 37, 22.9%) and dilated cardiomyopathy (N = 15, 9.3%). In hospital mortality was 14.3%. Reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, worsening renal function and hyponatremia were predictors of mortality.
Conclusion
In hospital mortality was strongly associated with worsening renal function and hyponatremia and left ventricular ejection fraction less than 50%.
Bivariate Exponentiated Lomax Distribution Based on Marshall-olkin Method With a Real-life Application
Authors: Kalantan Z. I. , EL-Helbawy A. A. , AL-Dayian Gannat , Mahmoud Ahlam , Refaey Reda , Khalifa Mervat
Published: June 2024

This paper focuses on applying the Marshall-Olkin approach to generate a new bivariate distribution. The distribution is called the bivariate exponentiated Lomax distribution, and its marginal distribution is the exponentiated Lomax distribution. Numerous attributes are examined, including the joint reliability and hazard functions, the bivariate probability density function, and its marginal. The joint probability density function and joint cumulative distribution function can be stated analytically. Different contour plots of the joint probability density function, joint reliability, joint hazard rate functions of the bivariate exponentiated Lomax distribution are given. The unknown parameters, reliability, and hazard rate functions of the bivariate exponentiated Lomax distribution are estimated using the maximum likelihood method. Also, Bayesian technique is applied to derive the Bayes estimators, reliability and hazard rate functions of the bivariate exponentiated Lomax distribution. In addition, maximum likelihood and Bayesian two-sample prediction is considered to predict a future observation from a future sample of the bivariate exponentiated Lomax distribution. Finally, a numerical illustration is presented, including a simulation study to investigate the theoretical findings derived in this paper of the maximum likelihood and Bayesian estimation. Also, a simulation study is provided to evaluate the theoretical outcomes and performance of the maximum likelihood and Bayesian predictors. Furthermore, the real data set used in this paper is the scoring times from 42 American Football League matches that took place over three consecutive independent weekends in 1986. The results of utilizing the real data approves the practicality and flexibility of the bivariate exponentiated Lomax distribution in real-world situations and that the bivariate exponentiated Lomax distribution is suitable for modeling this bivariate data set.
Mathematics Subject Classification: 62F10, 62F15, 62N05, 62E10, 62N0
Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) Manifesting As a Disappearing Lung Mass: a case report.
Authors: Alshammari Maha , Ismail Huda , Alfaraj Fatimah
Published: June 2024

Background:
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis ABPA is a complex immunological pulmonary condition triggered by a hypersensitivity response to Aspergillus fumigatus, with wide radiological presentations predominantly affecting those with athsma or cystic fibrosis. This case presentation represent a an atypical history and unremarkable physical exam with a rare radiological picture of ABPA.
Case presentation:
This case report outlines the clinical course of a 40 years old female who presented with chronic cough and hemoptysis, her medical history revealed excision of an eye mass, consistent with pathology proven sarcoidosis. Initial X-ray and CT revealed a right upper lobe mass with central branching hyperdenisties. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) with cytology analysis led to consideration of ABPA. A follow-up CT chest after a few months showed complete resolution of the mass, with features consistent with ABPA, guidingthe physician to appropriate management strategies.
Conclusion:
This case presents a unique instance of Allergic Bronchoalveolar Aspergillosis (ABPA) and emphasizes the significance of imaging and BAL in suspected cases of ABPA. Treating physician should keep in mind that ABPA may manifest as a solitary lung mass, resembling lung cancer, follow up exams and correlation with BAL are essential for establishing the diagnosis.
Short and Long-Term Trajectories of the Post COVID-19 Condition: Results from the EuCARE POSTCOVID study
Authors: Santoro Andrea , Bai Francesca , Greco Maria Francesca , Rovito Roberta , Sala Matteo , Borghi Lidia , Piscopo Kyrie , Vegni Elena , Caporali Julia Fonseca de Morais , Marinho Carolina Coimbra , Leite Arnaldo Santos , Santoro Maria Mercedes , Silberstein Francesca Ceccherini , Iannetta Marco , Juozapaite Dovile , Strumiliene Edita , Almeida André , Toscano Cristina , Quinones Jesus Arturo Ruiz , Carioti Luca , Mommo Chiara , Fanti Iuri , Incardona Francesca , Marchetti Giulia
Published: June 2024

Background
Post COVID-19 condition (PCC) affects 10–40% of patients and is characterized by persisting symptoms at ≥ 4 weeks after SARS CoV-2 infection. Symptoms can last 7 or even more months. How long PCC persists and any changes in its clinical phenotypes over time require further investigation. We investigated PCC trajectories and factors associated with PCC persistence.
Material and methods
We included both hospitalized COVID-19 patients and outpatients from February 2020 to June 2023, who underwent at least one follow-up visit after acute infection at San Paolo Hospital, University of Milan. Follow-up visits were conducted at the post COVID-19 clinic or via telemedicine. During each follow-up examination, patients completed a short version of the WHO CRF for ongoing symptoms, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and a screening tool for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Statistical analyses involved Chi-square, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and logistic regression analysis.
Results
We enrolled 853 patients (median age 62, IQR 52–73; 41% females). 551/853 (64.6%), 152/418 (36.4%) and 21/69 (30.4%) presented PCC at median follow up of 3 (IQR 2–3), 7 (IQR 6–10) and 26 (IQR 20–33) months, respectively (p < 0.001). The main clinical phenotypes were fatigue, respiratory sequelae, brain fog and chronic pain; anosmia/dysgeusia was observed mostly in the first post-acute period. Female sex, acute disease in 2020, a longer hospital stay and no COVID-19 vaccination were associated with persistence or resolution of PCC compared to never having had PCC. Anxiety, depression and PTSD were more common in PCC patients. By fitting a logistic regression analysis, acute infection in 2020 remained independently associated with persistent PCC, adjusting for age, sex, preexisting comorbidities and disease severity (AOR 0.479 for 2021 vs 2020, 95%CI 0.253–0.908, p = 0.024; AOR 0.771 for 2022 vs 2020, 95%CI 0.259–2.297, p = 0.641; AOR 0.086 for 2023 vs 2020, 95%CI 0.086–3.830, p = 0.565).
Conclusions
There was a reduction in the PCC burden 7 months following the acute phase; still, one third of patients experienced long-lasting symptoms. The main clinical presentations of PCC remain fatigue, respiratory symptoms, brain fog, and chronic pain. Having had SARS CoV-2 infection during the first pandemic phases appears to be associated with persistent PCC.
Cardioprotective effects of Platycodon grandiflorum Granules in HER2-positive early breast cancer patients receiving Trastuzumab plus Pertuzumab: study protocol for a double blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hao Wei , Sun Chenping , Wu Chunyu , Shi Youyang , Qin Yuenong , Liu Sheng
Published: June 2024

Background
Breast cancer, particularly the Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) positive subtype, poses a significant health challenge for women worldwide. Trastuzumab plus Pertuzumab therapy has shown efficacy in treating HER2-positive breast cancer, but its use is limited by associated cardiotoxicity. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) suggests that Platycodon grandiflorus A. DC. (PG) may have cardioprotective effects due to its ability to nourish qi and blood. This study aims to investigate the effective and safety of PG in preventing cardiotoxicity associated with anti-HER2 therapy.
Method
In this double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, approximately 120 patients will be randomly assigned to either the PG or placebo groups, alongside undergoing 12 months of dual anti-HER2 therapies in a 1:1 ratio. Cardiotoxicity will be assessed at a median follow-up of 1 year. The primary outcome measure is left ventricular global longitudinal strain, with secondary outcomes including: (1) changes in left ventricular ejection fraction, (2) the occurrence of cardiotoxicity, (3) the occurrence of trastuzumab plus pertuzumab interruption, and (4) event free survival and overall survival rates among patients.
Discussion
This will be the first clinical study to determine whether PG can reduce the cardiotoxicity induced by trastuzumab plus pertuzumab treatment in HER2-positive early breast cancer patients.
Trial registration
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration Number ChiCTR2200061011)
Comparison of chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells from human amniotic fluid and human adipose-derived tissue in chitosan-xanthan gum scaffolds
Authors: Damas Ingrid I. , Zuliani Carolina C. , Westin Cecília B. , Andrade Kleber C. , Kharmandayan Paulo , Moraes Ângela M. , Mobasheri Ali , Coimbra Ibsen Bellini
Published: June 2024

Introduction: After age and obesity, traumatic injuries represent the third most important risk factor for the development of osteoarthritis. Current treatments for cartilage injuries are not very effective. However, the use of stem cells, associated or not with scaffolds, has been proposed and investigated. In this study, we compared chondrogenic differentiation in human amniotic fluid mesenchymal stromal cells (hAF-MSC) and human adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hAD-MSC) grown in porous chitosan-xanthan gum scaffolds (CX) stimulated with TGF-β3, aiming at the possibility of direct implantation in the lesioned site.
Methods: hAF-MSC were collected from women in the second trimester of pregnancy and hAD-MSC from patients that underwent liposuction. In the case of hAF-MSC samples, CD117-positive cells were selected. The mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) from both sources were expanded and characterized considering their capacity to adhere to polystyrene culture flasks, by flow cytometry analysis and differentiation into cartilage, bone and fat cells. The MSCs were seeded into chitosan-xanthan gum scaffolds specially designed for use in cartilage tissue engineering and grown under TGF-β3 stimulation. Differentiation was confirmed and evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), histology, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence analysis.
Results: The results showed that MSCs from both sources exhibited high capacity for cell expansion, positivity for phenotypic markers, multipotency, chondrogenic potential and negativity for hematopoietic markers, in addition to differentiation capacity into the three above-mentioned mesenchymal lineages. Chondrogenic differentiation was confirmed by hematoxylin-eosin, alcian blue, picrosirius red and Masson's trichrome staining, indicating the presence of collagens and proteoglycans. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed positivity for collagen II and aggrecan, and immunofluorescence also showed positivity for collagen II. SEM revealed intense cell adhesion and collagen fibers adhered to the scaffold.
Conclusions: In summary, it was possible to differentiate in vitro stem cells from human amniotic fluid and human adipose tissue into chondrocytes directly in the scaffold of chitosan and xanthan in the presence of TGF-β3, with evident production of an ECM rich in collagen and PGs.
The influence of poverty on class engagement toward assignment submission in Community Schools of Nepal
Authors: Khatri Bishnu Bahadur , Thapa Yogendra
Published: June 2024

The relationship between poverty and education is complex and interdependent. Poverty limits access to quality schools and educational resources, leading to lower academic performance and class engagement. The objective of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of poverty on class engagement in assignment submission. A cross-sectional survey has been applied in a quantitative and positivist philosophical setting. Five hundred and thirty samples were randomly selected from 20 community schools in Jhapa and Morang using stratified sampling. Poverty identification was based on the Nepal Multidimensional Poverty Index (MMPI), 2021. Primary data is based on self-reports and non-standard questionnaires and analyzed through Stata 14 by taking support of logistic regression. The study found that 90 percent are far from better learning resources and about 50 percent of impoverished students have fewer opportunities to correct assignments regularly. The majority of poor students who do not complete homework within the deadline are punished physically. Similarly, more than 70 percent of students living in poverty have no access to interaction and learning support. According to the study's findings, students living in poverty participate less actively in class during the submission and correction of assignments. Poverty-stricken students have not taken full advantage of their educational prospects. The study suggests that quality education for students living in poverty is possible through the provision of quality educational resources, support to teachers and families, and the implementation of programs that address the specific needs of children.
Integrating multi-omics analysis and machine learning to identify molecular subtypes and construct prognostic models for lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Dong Ya , Zhang Xiang , Wang Yuhan , Xu Tao
Published: June 2024

LUSC had a high morbidity and mortality rate in China, resulting in high social burdens. Most LUSC patients are already in the highly advanced cancer stage at diagnosis, and the clinical treatment is relatively difficult and the prognosis is relatively poor. The progress and application of sequencing technologies and machine learning algorithms offer new therapeutic perspectives and survival opportunities for LUSC patients. First, we gained multi-omics data on LUSC from the TCGA and GEO databases and performed batch effect. A total of ten different clustering methods were adopted to conduct multiomics consensus ensemble analysis. Then, we combined the integration analysis with ten machine learning algorithms to develop a CMLS. Besides, we explored the immune landscape and immunotherapeutic response of LUSC. Lastly, we identified potential therapeutic agents in LUSC. We independently identified two subtypes (CS1 and CS2) from ten multi-omics integrated clustering algorithms and CS2 showed the most favourable survival outcome among all subtypes. Subsequently, we identified 24 PRGs based on markers between subtypes and constructed CMLS using ten machine learning algorithms. In the TCGA-LUSC and META-LUSC sets, patients with high-CMLS group had a poorer clinical prognosis. Moreover, we evaluated the immunological landscape of LUSC using "IOBR" package. Low-CMLS group exhibited significantly higher levels of immune cell infiltration, including NK cells, T cells and B cells, suggesting that they may have better survival outcomes. CMLS might predict the prognosis and immune response of LUSC patients in some degree. In conclusion, our study provided novel ways to optimise the clinical diagnosis and therapeutic approaches of LUSC.
Striae gravidarum in the Han Chinese pregnant population: Identifying genetic markers and risk factors through a prospective cohort study
Authors: Xiong Lidan , Yang Lifeng , He Hailun , Chen Jianguo , Wang Yinshu , Dong Xiuju , Li Li , Han Yuanyuan
Published: June 2024

Background
Striae gravidarum (SG), commonly known as stretch marks, are a frequent connective tissue alteration observed in pregnant women. Postpartum women may feel damaged in their self-image due to SG which can lead to lower self-esteem and emotional problems such as anxiety and depression. The study aimed to evaluate the potential risk factors and genetic associations of SG in a Chinese Han population.
Methods
A multicenter trial was conducted involving 1017 pregnant women of Chinese Han descent who provided informed consent. Participants completed questionnaires regarding demographics, medical history, and lifestyle factors. Anthropometric measurements and obstetric data were gathered, followed by a genome-wide association study (GWAS).
Results
The study found that 59% of participants experienced SG. Significant correlations were observed between SG and factors including age, pre-pregnancy weight, maximum pregnancy weight during pregnancy, BMI before and during pregnancy, and maximum abdomen girth. Risk factors for SG included a positive family history, prior experience of striae distensae during adolescence, and specific skin types according to the Fitzpatrick classification. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that age, family history, history of striae distensae, skin types, and pre-pregnancy BMI were notable predictors of SG. The GWAS identified several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to SG presence and severity, implicating genes such as FGF12, RAB38, MUC16, PTPRT, SIPA1L2, PPARGC1A, PTPRD, and ELOVL3.
Conclusion
The study presents a predictive model for SG risk that includes non-modifiable factors like family history and skin type, and modifiable factors such as pre-pregnancy weight and BMI. The findings provide insights into the genetic basis of SG and may aid in counseling patients on risk reduction strategies. The identified genetic variants offer potential targets for future research into the pathogenesis and prevention of SG.
Artificial Intelligence in Patient Care: A Study of Artificial Intelligence’s Responses to Blepharoplasty Concerns
Authors: Yassa Arsany , Ayad Olivia , Patel Aman , Vengsarkar Ved , Mikhael Mina
Published: June 2024

Purpose
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing and profoundly influencing healthcare, offering the potential to revolutionize access to medical information. As medical misinformation proliferates and online searches for health-related advice increase, there is an escalating need for dependable patient information. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an AI chatbot in delivering information for blepharoplasty candidates.
Materials and Methods
Numerous frequently asked questions on blepharoplasty sourced from the ASPS website were asked to ChatGPT. The responses were then rigorously cross-referenced with relevant scholarly literature and meticulously reviewed by the research team to determine their accuracy. Additionally, the questions were classified into three categories, and the responses were evaluated using Flesch-Kincaid readability metrics, along with ANOVA and trend analysis tests.
Results
Despite minor variations, ChatGPT's responses to blepharoplasty FAQs largely aligned with current literature. Overall readability analysis showed a Flesch Reading Ease score of 31.48, indicating high school complexity with a Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level at 10.92, and 20.97% use of passive voice. The ANOVA results showed that there were no significant differences in readability between the categories (p-values: Flesch Reading Ease = 0.816, Flesch-Kincaid = 0.616, Passive Sentences = 0.115). Trend analysis also showed that the level of response complexity stayed the same across the questions.
Conclusion
ChatGPT is an evolving tool that holds potential for patients in accessing and comprehending medical information. While it can offer accurate insights, it's important to recognize that its answers might not consistently reach complete accuracy or be suitable for patients with varying educational levels.
A Decomposition Analysis of Inequality in Malnutrition Among Under Five Children in India: Findings from National Family Health Survey-5
Authors: Kabdwal Naresh Chandra , Yadav Niraj Kumar , Singh Kh. Jitenkumar , Yadav Jitendra
Published: June 2024

Background: Nutrition is essential for good health and human development, particularly during the early stages of life. Nutritional status of children is essential for their development and growth at early stage of lives, with implications extending into adult life. Malnutrition is recognized to be the biggest single threat to the public health worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Nutritional status can be determined anthropometrically which is the outcome of complex interactions between socio-economic and biological variables. This study aimed to measure malnutrition inequality among underfive children in India and we have used a regression-based decomposition analysis to see the impact of socioeconomic determinants on this inequality.
Methods: The study utilizes data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted between 2019 and 2021. To examine the magnitude of socioeconomic inequality in child malnutrition, the concentration indices for stunting, underweight, and wasting are employed. Furthermore, decomposition analysis of the concentration indices is conducted to understand the role of socio-economic factors in child-hood malnutrition inequality.
Results: The obtained concentration indices of stunting, underweight, and wasting were respectively -0.126, -0.138, and -0.064. Socioeconomic inequality in underweight and stunting was statistically significant, with children in the lowest socioeconomic quintile bearing a higher burden of malnutrition; however, no socio-economic gradient was observed in wasting. Urban children in the lowest quintiles experienced a higher burden of stunting than rural children, according to the concentration index value derived from the area of residence. Furthermore, socioeconomic status significantly influenced malnutrition inequality, with approximately 36% of the inequality in stunting, 44% in underweight, and over 68% in wasting attributed to family socioeconomic status.
Conclusion: The average reduction in the national-level malnutrition indices reflects the impact of malnutrition among children in low-income families. To effectively address this issue, the government and policymakers must implement direct and targeted actions aimed at eliminating current inequities in the socio-economic determinants linked with malnutrition. By prioritizing interventions that specifically target vulnerable populations and address the underlying socioeconomic factors contributing to malnutrition, policymakers can work towards achieving equitable access to nutrition and improving the health outcomes of all children.
Variability of Thermal Subthreshold Retinal Laser Treatment Plans
Authors: Rahn Ulrike , Rahn Christian-Dennis , Arora Supriya , Ng Eugene , Kozak Igor , Chhablani Jay
Published: June 2024

Purpose
To investigate the variability in subthreshold laser treatment plans for patients with diabetic macular edema or central serous chorioretinopathy.
Methods
Diagnostic images from 20 patients were utilized, and 25 retina specialists generated subthreshold treatment plans along with a self-rated experience level. Evaluation comprised of i)Area Variability(AV): quantifies the consensus regarding the covered area and is the difference between the areas planned by 75% and 25% of the participants ii)mean Centroid Distance(CD): level of agreement on the localization of a treatment. Subgroup analysis investigated the impact of participants' experience levels, utilizing the Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon test.
Results
The predominant plan style is a targeted treatment approach(92%) and avoidance of subfoveal region(89%). Mean CD is 71.0 ± 37.5 pixels (≈half disc diameter) and mean AV is 9.8%±8.9%. A slight difference is observed between the 50%-75% areas, but a notable distinction exists between the 25%-50% areas. Subgroup analysis revealed CD and AV value of 75.9 pixels and 24% in the lower experience level group as opposed to 55.9 pixels and 8.6% in the higher experience level group.
Conclusions
There is significant variability in treatment planning which reduces with increased experience of retina specialists. While consensus is observed around focal points, differences in the surrounding extents persist.
Incidence, Risk Factors and Therapy Response of Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease after Postransplant Cyclophosphamide
Authors: Gomez Ines , Cantó Pedro Asensi , Montoro Juan , Villalba Marta , Chorao Pedro , Solves Pilar , Santiago Marta , Madrid Pilar Lloret , Ruiz Jürgen Solís , Pell-Ilderton Clara Sopeña , Campuzano David Martínez , Granados Pablo , Eiris Juan , Louro Alberto , Rebollar Paula , Perla Aurora , Benavente Rafael , Rubia Javier de la , Sanz Miguel Ángel , Balaguer-Roselló Aitana , Caballer Jaime Sanz
Published: June 2024

Post-transplant cyclophosphamide, sirolimus and mycophenolate mofetil (PTCy/siro/MMF) constitutes an innovative and well-tolerated acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) prophylaxis after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), but risk factors for aGVHD incidence and therapy failure in this setting are scarce. The study prospectively registered all consecutive adult patients with hematologic malignancies who received an allo-HSCT using PTCy/siro/MMF prophylaxis at our institution between 2017 and 2023. A total of 439 patients were included, of whom 40% were transplanted from matched sibiling donors, 34% from matched unrelated donors (MUD) and 26% from haploidentical donors. The 100-day cumulative incidence of grade II-IV and grade III-IV aGVHD was 22% (95% confidence interval [CI] 18–26%) and 11% (95% CI 8–14%), respectively. The use of MUD was associated with decreased risk of severe aGVHD while a diagnosis of myelodysplastic or myeloproliferative neoplasms (MDS/MPN) was deleterious. Among 92 patients receiving first-line systemic corticosteroids, 51% achieved a sustained complete response, while 22% and 23% developed steroid-dependent (SD-aGVHD) and steroid-refractory aGVHD (SR-aGVHD), respectively. Only grade III-IV aGVHD was a predictor of steroid failure. SR-aGVHD was associated with worse salvage treatment response and overall survival compared to SD-aGVHD. The 1-year cumulative incidence of aGVHD-related mortality was 5.7% (95% CI, 3.7–8.2). Risk factors for aGVHD-related mortality included haploidentical donors, older donors, diagnosis of MDS/MPN, and grade IV aGVHD. This study confirms a low incidence aGVHD with PTCy/siro/MMF prophylaxis. SR-aGVHD showed poorer response to salvage therapies and worse survival, while haploidentical donors and older donor age were negative predictors for aGVHD-related deaths.
Circ_0004641 upregulates TRIM25/TRIM41 expression by sponging miR- 1192 to induce cardiac hypertrophy in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Guang-cheng Liu , Zhang Haipeng , Zhang Jingdai , Qian Hao , Wang Liang , Chen Lianfeng , Shen Zhujun
Published: June 2024

Aim To verify the cardiac hypertrophical role of circ_0004641 and its potential mechanism by targeting miR1192-TRIM25/TRIM41 axis.
Methods Mice model was constructed by abdominal aortic coarctation (AAC) surgery and cell model was established from isolated neonatal mouse ventricular cardiomyocytes (NMVCs) by co-cultured with angiotensin II (Ang II). Differential expressed circRNAs were identified by Next-generation sequencing and target miRNAs and downstream mRNAs were predicted by bioinformational analysis. RT-qPCR and Western Blot were applied to validate myocardial-associated molecules on transcriptional and translational levels respectively. By transfecting siRNAs or co-culturing with mimics, expression of regulating-molecules was detected respectively. Dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to identify the interaction between circular RNA and miRNA.
Results A total of 5 up-regulation and 25 down-regulation circRNAs were detected on hypertrophical myocardium by Next-generation sequencing. Among them, circ_0004641 was significantly increased both in in vivo and in vitro as ANP and β-MHC accumulated, while downstream target miRNA-1192 decreased and target mRNA (TRIM25/TRIM41) increased dramatically. Knock-down of circ_0004641 by transfecting siRNA shows a reverse effect on cardiac hypertrophy, along with contrary expressive trend of miR-1192 and TRIM25/TRIM41.Dual luciferase reporter assay identified the sponge-like interaction between circ_0004641 and miR-1192. By co-culturing NMVCs with miR-1192 mimics, its targets TRIM25/TRIM41 showed significant decrease. Moreover, NF-κB signaling pathway were identified to correlated by circ_0004641/miRNA-1192 axis as P65 protein present similar expressive trend with circ_0004641.
Conclusion circ_0004641 may exert a stimulative role in cardiac hypertrophy by regulating miR-1192-TRIM25/TRIM41 axis and NF/κB p65 pathway is the underlying downstream pathway.
Construction and evaluation of nomogram for risk prediction of cognitive impairment in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease comorbidity
Authors: Yang Weng , Luo JiaFeng , Fu AiShuang , Ji HongLian , Li XinRan , Bai Jing , Liu TieJun , Chen WeiBin , Zhang YanShu , Xiao Li , Mo GuoXin , Ge YanLei
Published: June 2024

Objectives Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) remains a serious public health problem globally, and the mortality rate for older COPD patients with cognitive impairment is almost three times that of older patients with cognitive impairment or COPD. The aim of this study was to construct a nomogram prediction model for the risk of comorbid cognitive impairment in COPD patients and to evaluate its clinical application. It helps to detect cognitive impairment in COPD patients at an early stage and give them effective interventions in time, so as to delay the progression of COPD patients and improve their prognosis.
Methods In this study, COPD patients hospitalised at the North China University of Science and Technology Affiliated Hospitalwere evaluated by the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) scale for cognitive function, and divided into a case group and a control group on the basis of whether or not they were combined with cognitive impairment. Based on the basic characteristics of the patients and the laboratory indexes in the first 24 hours of hospitalisation, we conducted statistical analyses, screened out the risk factors and established the Nomogram Prediction Model by using the R software, and finally, we evaluated the clinical value of the model through the calculation of ROC curves for sensitivity, specificity and kappa value. Finally, the sensitivity, specificity and Kappa value were calculated by ROC curve to evaluate the clinical value of the model.
Results After statistical analysis, C-reactive protein (CRP) and homocysteine (Hcy) were found to be the risk factors for combined cognitive impairment in COPD patients, and the Nomogram prediction model was constructed by combining CRP and Hcy and plotted the ROC curve, and it was found that its model finally screened the critical value of the total score of 62.55, and the area under the ROC curve of the model was 0.870, and the sensitivity was 84.7%, and the specificity was 80.4%, indicating that it has a high degree of consistency with the actual results. The area under the ROC curve of this model was 0.870, the sensitivity was 84.7%, the specificity was 80.4%, and the calculated Kappa value was 0.575, which indicated that the consistency between the prediction results and the actual results was better, and it had a higher clinical application value.
Conclusions CRP and Hcy are closely associated with comorbid cognitive impairment in COPD patients, and increased levels of CRP and Hcy are associated with an increased risk of comorbid cognitive impairment in COPD patients. Combining both CRP and Hcy to create a nomogram model for predicting comorbid cognitive impairment in patients with COPD has good predictive ability.
BNIP1 inhibits the fusion of autophagosome and lysosome in hippocampal neurons and promotes the development of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Li Chen , Zhang Miao , Xia Hongyan , Zhi Xiaoyan , Wang Ning , Long Yaolin , Yuan Yuan , Shen YanJun , Wang Li , Wang Xiaohui
Published: June 2024

Background
BNIP1 (BCL2 interacting protein 1) is a soluble N-ethyl maleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor, and its decreased expression is potentially associated with the occurrence and development of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and the regulation of BNIP1 has potential significance for the prevention and treatment of AD.
Methods
The expression of BNIP1 protein was detected in APP/PS1 transgenic mice and APP-overexpressed HT22 hippocampal nerve cells. The most relevant protein components of BNIP1 expression were investigated by mass spectrometry. After using small interfering RNA and plasmid to regulate the expression of BNIP1, the detection results were strengthened to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the experiment.
Results
In our study, we detected that the decrease of BNIP1 protein in APP/PS1 double-transgenic mice and APP-overexpressed HT22 hippocampal nerve cells inhibited the fusion of autophagosome and lysosome, and further induced the decrease of Rab7 protein in Rab5b recruitment. Overexpression of BNIP1 can promote the fusion of autophagosome and lysosome. The knockdown of BNIP1 resulted in further dysfunction of autophagosome and lysosome fusion of APP-overexpressed HT22 hippocampal nerve cells.
Conclusions
These results suggest that the decrease of BNIP1 can lead to the dysfusion of AD autophagosome and lysosome, while overexpression of BNIP1 can ultimately promote the fusion of AD autophagosome and lysosome by inducing Rab5b to recruit Rab7, which provides a potential intervention target for the treatment of AD.
Antenna Array Arbitrary Pattern Synthesis Using Conditional Generative Adversarial Network
Authors: Shoaee Mohammad , Nooramin Amir Saman , Oraizi Homayoon
Published: June 2024

A new approach to the real-time synthesis of antenna array factor and weight calculation is introduced, utilizing a conditional Generative Adversarial Network (cGAN). To our knowledge, we are the first to employ a GAN for array antenna pattern synthesis. The neural network takes a predefined simple array pattern as input, which includes only the main lobes and null angles, and certain constraints like SLL control. The output of the network is the actual antenna array factor. We demonstrate that by performing a fast Fourier transform on the network's output, the corresponding weights can be obtained instantly since the patterns on which the network is trained are derived from an iterative FFT algorithm explained extensively in the main body of the text. The proposed method eliminates the need for computationally expensive and time-consuming iterative methods. Furthermore, unlike other AI-based array antenna pattern synthesis methods, our approach requires minimal data, even for large array antennas. It will be demonstrated that for a planar array, with only 1000 array factor featuring a single main lobe and null at random angles, the trained neural network is capable of generating patterns with any desired number of main lobes or nulls, at any arbitrary angle.
Challenges and Expectations on Diabetic Foot Care among Diabetic Patients Attending Diabetic Clinics in Zanzibar: A qualitative Study
Authors: Muhsin Arafa Abdulhakim , Xu Professor Qin , Msesa Daniel Joshua , Kafi Lina , Ngwali Abdulla Khamis , Hamad Hajra Ali
Published: June 2024

Background
Diabetic foot ulcer is one the mutual difficulties of diabetic mellitus indorsed to a number of morbidity and mortality cases in diabetic patients. Nowadays, the occurrence of diabetic foot ulcer is amassed due to the increased prevalence of diabetes. Though, the challenges and expectations of the foot care among diabetic patients ‘are less studied in Zanzibar. Hereafter, this study was conducted to explore Challenges and Expectations of Diabetic Foot Care among Diabetic Patients Attending Diabetic Clinics in Zanzibar
Methods
A qualitative study with focused group discussion of 16 DFU patients, the discussed questions were arranged on views of foot care, current health practice and their expectations on DFU care and its prevention. The conversation was transcribed and thematically analyzed.
Results
Six themes were found after the transcription, which are Living experience with diabetic foot, challenges on foot diabetic care, expectations of support, recommendation for improvement, self-care practice and self-management strategies.
Conclusion
Patients expressed awareness in avoidance the existence of DFU so it is suggested that the effective health education on foot care and other crucial information concerning living with DM must be provided to patients as early as they have been diagnosed with Diabetic Mellitus.
Synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles using Mussaenda frondose and its Applications in Sensor with Antibacterial Studies
Authors: Naik Mamata , Kini Jyothi , Velho-Pereira Sheryanne , Swamy B.E.Kumara
Published: June 2024

This work reports the synthesis of as-prepared nanostructured Zinc oxide (ZnO) using Mussaenda frondose leaf extract. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were examined using UV-Visible spectrophotometry (UV-VIS), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Transmission electron microscopy illustrating its Hexagonal Wurtzite structure. Electrochemical behaviour of the dopamine was studied using modified ZnO NPs/CPE. These studies revealed high sensitivity and selectivity for the dopamine(DA) detection in presence of 0.2M phosphate buffer solution of pH 7.4. Antibacterial studies revealed activity against the test pathogens evaluated namely Klebsiella sp. (Gram negative) and S. aureus (Gram positive) by assessing the zone of inhibition in mms following the agar cup diffusion assay.
Cell Viability or Image-based Analysis: Evaluation of Dose Response of Patient- derived Cancer Organoids to Irradiation Running Title: Dose Response of Cancer Organoids to Irradiation
Authors: Yu Haina , Lin Canfeng , Chen Lifeng , Liu Weizhen , Liu Hualong , Li Jing , Yao Ye
Published: June 2024

Patient-derived cancer organoids emerged as an innovative model in basic and translational medicine research, as well as precision medicine. However, most radiation oncologists are still unaware of the value of organoids in radiation oncology research, especially in precision radiation oncology. The methods for assessment of organoids cell death after irradiation was also undefined. In this study, three organoid lines were successfully established from the surgical specimens of rectal cancer patients. These organoid lines displayed diverse architecture and captured heterogeneity of the tumors. Genetic characterization of rectal cancer organoids showed that the most frequently mutated genes and pathways among rectal cancer tumors also presented in rectal cancer organoids. Our results also revealed that cancer organoids were easy to use for the research of radiobiology of cancer. The survival of rectal cancer organoids after X rays irradiation could be validated by image-based analysis, while the cell viability tested by cell counting kit-8 failed. The survival curves generated from imaging analysis were more representative, which had an initial linear slope, followed by a shoulder, and tended to become straight again. As far as we know, this was the first study to investigate the appropriate testing method of using organoids to study cancer radiosensitivity, suggesting that image-based analysis is more accurate than cell viability.
Research on site selection of emergency material reserve based on set pair analysis and TOPSIS integration method: A case study of Hebei Province, China
Authors: Kong Dekun , Yang Wenguang
Published: June 2024

The site selection of emergency material reserve is very important for emergency management, which is related to disaster rescue efficiency and social stability. To solve this site selection problem, an evaluation system for the site selection of emergency materials reserve was established. 11 prefecture-level cities in Hebei Province were selected as research objects, and an index system including 3 pri-mary criteria and 8 secondary criteria was constructed. The aim is to find ascientific and reasonable storage location to reduce costs and ensure the time-liness of materials. And on the basis of combination of set pair analysis (SPA) and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS),an evaluation method named MGSPA-TOPSIS is proposed in this paper. This method fully considers the weight determination, positive ideal solution (PIS) and negative ideal solution (NIS) problems. When determining the weights, the maximizing deviation method is used to obtain the objective weights, which can objectively and comprehensively consider the importance of each index in site selection evaluation. At the same time, in order to fully consider subjective needs, we also used order relation analysis (G1 method) to obtain subjective weights, and synthesized objective weights and subjective weights through the principle of game theory to obtain the final weight allocation scheme and ensure the object-tivity and fairness of the evaluation results. In the calculation of PIS and NIS,MAX-MIN standardization method is adopted to ensure the scale consistency of each index. In terms of the incidence of the final verification rank reversal, the criteria extended maximum and criteria extended minimum values are obtained by using the central limit theorem, and the value range of the verification data is delimited, so as to reduce the deviation of the evaluation results as much as possible, and thus improve the effectiveness and reliability of the method.
An Efficient Energy Makespan Optimization Based Task Mapping In Fog Enabled IoT Application
Authors: Tripathy Niva , Sahoo Sampa , Tripathy Subhranshu Sekhar , Shah Mohd Asif , Mallik Saurav
Published: June 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) points to billions of connected devices that share data through the Internet. However, the increasing amount of data generated by IoT devices makes remotely placed cloud data centers inefficient for delay-sensitive applications. In this regard, fog computing, which brings computation near the data source, plays a significant role in overcoming the above issue. However, resource constraints in fog demand an effective task-scheduling technique for the enormous amount of data. Many researchers have proposed a variety of heuristic and meta-heuristic approaches for effective scheduling; however, there is still scope for improvement. In this paper, we propose EMAPSO (energy makespan-aware PSO). The makespan and energy minimization simultaneously are presented as a bi-objective optimization problem. The approach also considered the load balancing factor while assigning a task to a VM in a fog/cloud environment. The proposed algorithm EMAPSO is compared to standard PSO, Modified PSO (MPSO), Bird swam optimization (BSO), and the Bee Life Algorithm (BLA). The experimental results show the proposed method outperforms the compared algorithms in terms of resource utilization, makespan, and energy consumption.
Feasibility of Community-based Hypertension Screening and Referral by Village Health Teams in Eastern Uganda: a Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Kanyike Andrew Marvin , Kihumuro Raymond Bernard , Kintu Timothy Mwanje , Seungwon Lee , Nakawuki Ashley Winfred , Apio Kevin , Katuramu Richard
Published: June 2024

Background
Hypertension (HTN) is a significant public health challenge in Uganda, with a high prevalence and low diagnosis rate due to healthcare system deficiencies, like scarce diagnostic resources and a shortage of medical professionals. Task-shifting roles for community health workers (CHWs) could potentially fill gaps in the control of HTN, but this is still underexplored. This study determined the feasibility of leveraging CHWs, called Village Health Teams (VHTs), for HTN screening and referral in Eastern Uganda.
Methods
We conducted a quasi-experimental study from June to November 2023 in Jinja City and Bugembe town council, Eastern Uganda. Twelve VHTs were trained and deployed to screen and refer hypertensive patients in their communities. The training covered hypertension basics, blood pressure measurement, and referral protocols. Over four months, VHTs screened adults aged 18 and above using automatic blood pressure machines. Participants with elevated blood pressure (≥ 140/90 mmHg) on two different occasions at least 15 minutes apart were referred to a local health center for diagnosis and management. Data were collected on participant demographics, blood pressure readings, and referral outcomes and analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and reliability assessments in STATA version 15. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
The VHTs screened 5,215 individuals, surpassing the target by 48%. The prevalence of HTN was 22.4% (n = 1167). Factors associated with HTN were older age, being male, having had previous blood pressure measurements, and alcohol use. The blood pressure measurements taken by VHTs compared to health professionals showed a high agreement (95.65%; 95% CI: 90.72% − 100%). However, of the hypertensive individuals identified, only 278 (23.8%) accepted referral to the health center. The monthly average number of new patients at the health center significantly increased from 4.6 ± 0.9 to 12.7 ± 1.4 four months before and after the intervention (t = 4.37, p = 0.0014).
Conclusion
VHTs can reliably screen for HTN, comparable to qualified health professionals. However, to improve the VHT-led screening and referral intervention, community trust in blood pressure measurements taken by VHTs must be enhanced to address the low referral rates.