bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic Regulation of EMP/EMT-Dependent Fibrosis
Authors: Sisto Margherita , Lisi Sabrina
Published: January 2024

Fibrosis represents a process characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. It often represents the evolution of pathological conditions, causes organ failure, and can, in extreme cases, compromises the functionality of the organs to the point of causing death. In recent years, considerable efforts have been made to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying fibrotic evolution and to identify possible therapeutic strategies. Great interest has been aroused by the discovery of a molecular association between epithelial to mesenchymal plasticity (EMP), in particular epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and fibrogenesis, which has led to the identification of complex molecular mechanisms closely interconnected with each other, which could explain EMT-dependent fibrosis. However, the result remains unsatisfactory from a therapeutic point of view. In recent years, advances in epigenetics, which is based on chromatin remodeling through various histone modifications or through the intervention of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), have provided more information on the fibrotic process, and this could represent a promising path forward for the identification of innovative therapeutic strategies for organ fibrosis. In this review, we summarize current research on epigenetic mechanisms involved in organ fibrosis, with a focus on epigenetic regulation of EMP/EMT-dependent fibrosis.
Association of Alkaline Phosphatase with Cardiovascular Disease in Patients with Dyslipidemia: A 6-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Adamidis Petros-Spyridonas , Florentin Matilda , Liberopoulos Evangelos , Koutsogianni Amalia Despoina , Anastasiou Georgia , Liamis George , Milionis Haralampos , Barkas Fotios
Published: January 2024

Background and Aim: Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity has been associated with ath-erosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). We aimed to investigate the association of ALP with ASCVD in patients with dyslipidemia.
Methods: Retrospective cohort study including consecutive adults with dyslipidemia followed-up for ≥3 years (from 1999 to 2022) in the outpatient Lipid Clinic of Ioannina University General Hospital, Greece. The primary endpoint was the association between baseline ALP and incident ASCVD after adjusting for traditional risk factors (i.e. sex, age, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, dyslipidemia), baseline ASCVD and lipid-lowering treatment. ALP levels were stratified by ter-tiles as follows: low:<67 U/L, middle: 67-79 U/L, high: ≥79 U/L.
Results: Overall, 1178 subjects were included; 44% were males and their median age was 57 years (range 49-65). During a 6-year median follow-up (interquartile range IQR: 4-9), 78 new ASCVD events (6.6%) occurred. A statistically significant association between baseline ALP levels and incident ASCVD was demonstrated (Odds Ratio, OR: 6.99, 95% Confidence Interval, CI: 2.29-21.03, p=0.001). Subjects in the highest ALP tertile had the highest odds for ASCVD when compared with those in the lowest tertile (OR: 2.35; 95% CI: 1.24-4.41, p=0.008).
Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that ALP is associated with ASCVD development in patients with dyslipidemia.
Assessing the Risk Factors of Detectable Viral Loads after Switching to Dolutegravir and Lamivudine or Bictegravir, Emtricitabine and Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate in a Real-World Cohort of Treatment-Experienced Adults Living with HIV
Authors: Lee Shu-Yuan , Lin Yi-Chun , Chen Cheng-Pin , Cheng Shu-Hsing , Chang Shu-Ying , Ku Shin-Yen , Cheng Chien-Yu
Published: January 2024

In the TANGO study, the long-term noninferior efficacy of switching to dolutegravir/lamivudine (DTG/3TC) compared to continuing tenofovir alafenamide–based regimens was demonstrated in treatment-experienced adults with HIV. However, there is limited real-world data comparing the effectiveness and safety of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (BIC/FTC/TAF) and DTG/3TC in Asia. This retrospective observational study, conducted at a designated HIV-care hospital from March 2019 to January 2023, aimed to address this gap. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data, including HIV viral loads and lipid profiles, were collected and analyzed. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with HIV RNA <50 copies/mL at week 48 in both groups, utilizing a snapshot, per-protocol–exposed population. A total of 1086 patients were included, with 511 in the DTG/3TC group and 575 in the BIC/FTC/TAF group. At week 48, 98% of patients in the DTG/3TC group and 94% in the BIC/FTC/TAF group achieved HIV RNA <50 copies/mL (p <0.01). Logistic regression analysis identified risk factors for detectable viral loads at week 48, including HIV RNA >100,000 copies/mL (AOR 5.13, 95% CI 1.42–18.53), low-level viremia (AOR 3.91, 95% CI 1.07–14.25), and record of virologic failure ≥2 times (AOR 4.21, 95% CI 1.64–10.85) before the switch. Furthermore, no significant difference was found between the DTG/3TC and BIC/FTC/TAF regimens (AOR: 1.51, 95% CI 0.70–3.24). In conclusion, the study demonstrates that the effectiveness and safety profiles of DTG/3TC and BIC/FTC/TAF were comparable in treatment-experienced adults with HIV, particularly among those with undetectable viral loads at baseline.
Type I IFN in Glomerular Disease: Scarring beyond the STING
Authors: Jimenez-Uribe Alexis Paulina , Mangos Steve , Hahm Eunsil
Published: January 2024

The field of nephrology has recently directed a considerable amount of attention towards the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) molecule since it appears to be a potent driver of chronic kidney disease (CKD). STING and its activator, the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) are among the most relevant inducers that promote the expression of type I interferons (IFN-Is). These cytokines have been long recognized as part of the mechanism used by the innate immune system to battle viral infections; however, their involvement in sterile inflammation remains unclear. Mounting evidence pointing to the involvement of the IFN-I pathway in sterile kidney inflammation provides potential insights into the complex interplay between the innate immune system and damage to the most sensitive segment of the nephron, the glomerulus. The STING pathway is often cited as the cause of renal disease originating from non-infection related caused by the induction of IFN-I expression. However, other receptors have been implicated in this process, mainly by recognizing host-derived nucleic acids. This review explores the main endogenous inducers of IFN-I in glomerular cells, discusses what exposure to the main autocrine and paracrine cytokines has on these cells, and identifies the pathways that are implicated in the development of glomerular damage.
Clinical Analysis of Stroke Patients: Unveiling ASPECT Scoring in a Case Series
Authors: Soni Zeal , Gami Vismit , Teraiya Tushar , Shah Sahil , Desai Dev
Published: January 2024

Introduction:ASPECTS (Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score) help in detecting early ischemic changes in stroke patients. This scoring system helps in predicting the stroke outcome, treatment options like thrombolysis and prognosis. It is a 10-point scaling system based on anatomical regions supplied by the middle cerebral artery and each point is subtracted for areas with ischemic changes. Aims and objectives:To study the effectiveness of the ASPECTS scoring in the assessment of the anterior and posterior cerebral circulation stroke. Materials and methods:A retrospective study was performed on stroke patients referred to our institute for an NCCT scan. 40 stroke patients with a mean age of 59+/-3 years were selected and patients with intracranial hemorrhage or hemorrhagic transformation of infarct were excluded. Scans were performed on a 128-slice multidetector CT PHILIPS Perspective scanner. The ASPECTS score was determined using standardised axial CT cuts. Result: In this case series study of 40 patients, a total of 28 patients (70%) had a score of 7 or more and these patients had better prognoses with proper treatment and follow-up.The remaining 12 patients (30%) had a score of less than 7 and even with treatment and sequential follow-up, they had no neurological recovery. Conclusion: Thus, it can be concluded that the ASPECTS can be used as a tool for predicting treatment outcomes in stroke patients. A score of 7 or more is associated with a good prognosis.
Faster Curing in BMI for 3D Printing Ink
Authors: Bhattacharyya Arnab , Ghosh Tridha
Published: January 2024

Bismaleimide (BMI) is a high-performance thermosetting resin widely used in the aerospace, automotive, and mechanical and electronics industries due to its chemical and mechanical stability. It also has the capability of being used as an ink in polyjets used for 3D printing evident from thinner mellamide FTIR bands and faster curing rates as observed from TGA-DSC studies.
Plasma Vitamin C Levels Associated with the Diet and Supplement Consumption
Authors: Trifunschi Svetlana , Munteanu Melania Florina , Borcan Florin , Tașcău Gyöngyvér , Pogurschi Elena Narcisa
Published: January 2024

The purpose of the study is to show the effect of the intake of vitamin C obtained from a diet rich in fruit and vegetables or vitamin C supplements on the level of vitamin C in the plasma. The level of vitamin C in plasma were determined before the study (T1), and after five months (T2). Moreover, a medical record was carried out and a questionnaire on the habits such as general eating and specific consumption of food rich in vitamin C. Both of them were completed before and after five months. In addition, related anthropometric analyses were carried out. The results of the first determination of vitamin C level in plasma were between 1.0 and 16.0 mg/L and the results of the second determination of vitamin C in plasma were between 4.9 and 14.1 mg/L. Furthermore, it was identified that 50% of the questioned people had a low fruit intake. Raw vegetables were consumed by fewer people, the intake being higher during the main meals. The correlation of plasma vitamin C with the eating habits of the subjects to the study points out an interdependence between the consumption of fruit and vegetables and the level of vitamin C in the plasma.
The Role of New Morphological Parameters Provided by the BC 6800 Plus Analyzer in the Early Diagnosis of Sepsis
Authors: Sacchetti Sara , Vidali Matteo , Esposito Teresa , Zorzi Stefano , Burgener Alessia , Ciccarello Lorenzo , Cammarota Gianmaria , Zanotti Valentina , Giacomini Luca , Bellan Mattia , Pirisi Mario , Lopez Ramon Simon , Dianzani Umberto , Vaschetto Rosanna , Rolla Roberta
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims: Late diagnosis of sepsis is associated with adverse consequences and high mortality rate.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of hematologic research parameters, that reflect the cell morphology of blood cells, available on the BC 6800 plus automated analyzer (Mindray) for the early detection of sepsis.
Materials and Methods: A complete blood count (CBC) was performed by Mindray BC 6800 Plus Analyzer in 327 patients (223 with a confirmed diagnosis of sepsis following sepsis-3 criteria, 104 without sepsis), admitted at the Intensive Care Unit of the Novara’s Hospital (Italy) and in 56 patients with localized infection.
Results: In univariate logistic regression, age, Hb, RDW, MO#, NMR, NeuX, NeuY, NeuZ, LymX, MonX, MonY, MonZ were associated with sepsis (p<0.005). In multivariate analysis, only RDW, NeuX, NeuY, NeuZ, MonX and MonZ were found to be independent predictors of sepsis (p<0.005). Morphological research parameters are confirmed to be predictors of sepsis even when analyzing the group with localized infection.
Conclusions: In addition to already established biomarkers and basic CBC parameters, new morphological cell parameters can be a valuable aid in the early diagnosis of sepsis at no additional cost.
Sex Differences in Visceral Pain and Comorbidities: Clinical Outcomes, Preclinical Models, and Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Tiwari Namrata , Qiao Liya Y
Published: January 2024

Comparing to males, females require much more morphine to produce comparable levels of analgesia, suggesting a difference in the endogenous hyperalgesia and analgesia modulation between sexes. Aside from hormones, emerging evidence suggests sex-differential intrinsic neural regulation of pain generation and maintenance. According to the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) and American College of Gastroenterology (ACG), up to 25 % of the population having visceral pain at any one time, and in the United States 10-15 percent of adults suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Here we analyzed literatures on clinical reports of sex differences in visceral pain focusing on IBS, other form of bowel dysfunction and comorbidities, and summarized animal models that provided means to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms in sexual dimorphism of visceral pain. Neurons and nonneuronal cells (glia and immune cells) in the peripheral and central nervous systems all contribute to sex-dependent nociception and nociplasticity in the painful signal processing. Emotion is another factor in pain perception and appears to have sexual dimorphism.
Autologous Cord Blood vs Individualized Supplements in Autistic Spectrum Disease – Results of the CORDUS Study
Authors: Stancioiu Felician , Dumitrescu Radu , Bogdan Raluca , Ivanescu Bogdan
Published: January 2024

Cellular therapies have started an important new therapeutic direction for Autistic Spectrum Disease (ASD), and the ample diversity of ASD pathophysiology and the different types of cell therapies need an equally ample effort for studying the applicable ASD causes and the specific benefits of cell therapies via clinical studies.CORDUS Clinical Study is a crossover study in which autologous cord blood was administered intravenously to 56 patients between January 2019 and July 2023, and has compared its efficacy versus an individualized combination of supplements; both treatments were administered in a different sequence to all participants. Treatment efficacy was evaluated pre- and post- treatments by an independent psychotherapist with ATEC, Q-CHAT and a 16-item comparative table score, after interviews with the children’s parents and therapists.Cord blood was beneficial in the group of 3–7-year-old children (n=28; 3 out of 4 children – 78.57% - improved scores), but was much less effective in kids older than 8 years or with body weight of more than 35 kg (n=28; 1 out of 10 children improved scores). Individualized supplements were more efficacious than cord blood in 5 cases out of 28, while in 23 kids cord blood brought more improvement than supplements; 6 kids registered minor or no improvement. Statistically significant improvements were seen after cord blood infusion on areas such as verbalization and social interaction, but not on irritability or aggressive behavior; also ample individual differences were noted. No serious adverse reactions were noted during and after cord blood or supplement administration.
Associations between Physical Disability and Chronic Diseases with Depressive Symptoms in Vietnamese-Origin Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Miyawaki Christina E , Garcia Joshua M , Medina Luis D , Nguyen Kim N , Meyer Oanh L , Markides Kyriakos S
Published: January 2024

Background. A strong association between Activities of Daily Living (ADL)/Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) disability, chronic disease, and depressive symptoms among different racial/ethnic groups of older adults has been well established. However, whether this relationship remains true among refugee populations such as Vietnamese in the United States has not yet been investigated.
Methods. Using linear regressions, we tested the relationships between ADL/IADL disability, common chronic diseases, and depressive symptoms among 208 Vietnamese-origin older adults from the two convenience samples in 2017 and 2018 (≥65 years) from the Vietnamese Aging and Care Survey (VACS) in the Houston, Texas area.
Results. Study participants (N=208) were 56.2% female of average 75.4 years old with low education and low socioeconomic status. Most self-rated their health as fair/poor (80%). Regression analyses showed significant associations between liver disease and total ADL/IADL difficulties with higher depressive symptoms.
Conclusions. Older Vietnamese with more ADL/IADL disability and liver disease reported higher depressive symptoms. Complications from chronic conditions and pain might limit activities and impact older Vietnamese psychologically. Healthcare professionals can connect older Vietnamese with culturally and linguistically relevant adult daycare centers to provide them with social and exercise opportunities.
A Class of Efficient Sixth-Order Iterative Methods for Solving the Nonlinear Shear Model of a Reinforced Concrete Beam
Authors: Padilla José Javier , Chicharro Francisco I. , Cordero Alicia , Hernández-Díaz Alejandro M. , Torregrosa Juan R.
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we present a three-step sixth-order iterative schemes to estimate the solutions of a nonlinear systems of equations, for predicting the shear strength of a reinforced concrete beam. This procedure is designed by means of a weight function technique. The values for the parameters of this system were randomly selected inside the prescribed ranges by technical standards for structural concrete; moreover, some of this parameters were fixed taking into consideration the solvability region of the adopted steel constitutive model. The efficiency of the new class is compared with other current schemes, with very good results.
Fertility Preservation and Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome Management in Cancer Care: A Pathophysiological Perspective on Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonists and Antagonists – a Narrative Review
Authors: Bedoschi Giuliano , Ingold Caroline , Navarro Paula Andrea
Published: January 2024

This narrative review delves into the evolving landscape of fertility preservation techniques with a particular focus on their use in patients undergoing oncology treatment that carries a risk of ovarian insufficiency. Advances in established methods such as cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos are highlighted and the increasing use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists is discussed. The review also addresses the complexities and controversies associated with these approaches, such as the 'flare-up' effect associated with GnRH agonists and the potential of GnRH antagonists to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Despite advances in fertility preservation, the report highlights the challenges we face, including the need for personalized treatment protocols and management of associated risks. It calls for continued research and collaboration between healthcare professionals to refine these techniques and ultimately improve reproductive outcomes for patients facing the prospect of fertility-impairing treatment.
Integrated Nutrient Management Boosts Inflorescence Biomass and Antioxidant Profile of Carlina diae (Asteraceae) – an Endangered Local Endemic Plant of Crete with Medicinal and Ornamental Value
Authors: Paschalidis Konstantinos , Fanourakis Dimitrios , Tsaniklidis Georgios , Tsichlas Ioannis , Tzanakakis Vasileios A. , Bilias Fotis , Samara Eftihia , Ipsilantis Ioannis , Grigoriadou Katerina , Matsi Theodora , Krigas Nikos , Tsoktouridis Georgios
Published: January 2024

Due to combined climate and biodiversity crisis, the sustainable utilization of phytogenetic resources stands as one-way alternative while nutrient management strategies gain an increasing role in agriculture. Building on previous studies regarding the Endangered local endemic of Crete (Greece) Carlina diae (Asteraceae) with medicinal and ornamental value, this investigation focused on its pilot cultivation and fertilization (foliar or root application). Foliar application included chemical fertilizer (conventional) or integrated nutrient management (INM). Root application consisted of chemical fertilizer, biostimulant, or INM with biostimulant. Above-ground biomass content of nutrients, together with leaf chlorophyll fluorescence and colour parameters (SPAD meter, DA meter, Chroma Meter) were determined. The leaf content of chlorophyll, three key antioxidant compounds and minerals’ titers were also assessed. The fertilization scheme did not influence plant growth and visually perceived quality (leaf color and shape). Notably, foliar INM fertilization increased biomass partitioning to inflorescences (harvestable organ for either medicinal or ornamental purposes), and decreased tissue water content (facilitating processing). Considering all three antioxidants together, INM with biostimulant appeared the optimum scheme, being associated with the highest (carotenoids, phenolics) or the second highest (flavonoid) content. In C. diae, therefore, INM fertilization was optimal for upgrading yield (foliar) and herbal quality in terms of antioxidant profile (INM with biostimulant), which might be embraced as an eco-friendly approach for high quality yields.
Another Compression after Low-Velocity Impact Test Setup: A Case Study of Reversing the Symmetric Lay-Up for an Angle-ply CFRP Laminated Composite
Authors: Baba Marius Nicolae
Published: January 2024

This paper reports an experimental investigation on compression after low-velocity impact response for two lay-up configurations of symmetric CFRP laminated composite specimens obtained by reversing their angle-ply orientation, namely [0/-45/45/90]s versus [90/45/-45/0]s, the impact velocity of the projectile up to the BVID level being subsequently considered. To this aim, a modified Compression-After-Impact (CAI) test device is proposed that involves clamping the specimen's upper and lower edges between two adjustable wide and flat anti-buckling plates through a removable bolt-nut assembly. Such a solution relies on the fact that the specimen's active length is shortened, reducing the risk of global buckling. Besides, the bolts carry part of the load with minor localized bearing damage, provided that the metallic plates act as washers by supporting the bolt-bearing region laterally, thus avoiding crashing failures at the specimens’ loaded edges. With these settings, roughly the same percent decrease in the average values of maximum compression load (i.e., 22%) was recorded for both lay-up configurations impacted up to their BVID threshold, whereas in terms of compressive stiffness behavior, a reduction of 17 % was found for [0/-45/45/90]s specimens compared to 6 % obtained for [90/45/-45/0]s specimens.
Recent Advances in Solid-State Modification for Thermoplastic Polymers: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Perez Bravo Jona Jose , Gerbehaye Caroline , Raquez Jean-Marie , Mincheva Rosica
Published: January 2024

This review provides an extensive overview of the developments in the field of polymer science, focusing on the solid-state modification (SSM) of thermoplastic materials. The background of the study places thermoplastics within the context of their increased use over the past century, highlighting their versatility in various applications and the associated environmental and health concerns due to certain additives. The methods section delves into the specifics of SSM, a technique that involves the incorporation of monomers or oligomers into the amorphous phase of polymers through multiple exchange reactions, distinguishing it from traditional melt polymer modification methods. The results section outlines the unique aspects of SSM and its increasing recognition for its potential to enhance material performance in areas such as catalysts and composites. It also discusses the application of SSM in modifying different thermoplastic polymers, highlighting various studies demonstrating the method's effectiveness in altering polymer properties. Finally, this work emphasizes SSM's importance in environmental sustainability and its potential in the recycling and upcycling of plastic materials. It acknowledges the challenges and future perspectives in the field, particularly regarding the scalability of SSM techniques for industrial applications and their role in advancing a circular economy in the polymer industry.
Enhancing Anatomy Education Through Flipped Classroom and Adaptive Learning. A Pilot Project on Liver Anatomy
Authors: Vertemati Maurizio , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Porrini Marisa
Published: January 2024

Anatomy education plays a critical role in medical practice, and the level of anatomical knowledge among students and physicians significantly impacts patient care. This article presents a pilot project conducted by the University of Milan aimed at exploring the effectiveness of the Area9's Rhapsode platform, an intelligent tutoring system that uses artificial intelligence to personalize learning and collect data on mastery acquisition. The study focused on liver anatomy and employed a flipped classroom approach, incorporating adaptive learning modules and an interactive in-class session. The project's execution, outcomes and preliminary pedagogical considerations are discussed. The results demonstrated improved learning quality, positive repurposing of study time, enhanced metacognitive awareness among students, with most of students demonstrating conscious mastery of the materials and a clear understanding of their level of competence. This approach, by providing valuable insights into the potential of artificial intelligence-based adaptive learning systems in anatomy education, could address the challenges posed by limited teaching hours, shortage of anatomist and the need for individualized instruction, with recommendations for future research and the expansion of adaptive learning modules to other anatomical districts.
Exosomes as Novel Diagnostic and Therapeutic Agents for Non-melanoma Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Seretis Konstantinos , Boptsi Elena , Boptsi Anastasia
Published: January 2024

Standard Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC) treatment involves surgery, recently combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy in case of advanced tumors. Exosomes, integral to carcinogenesis, are found in NMSC, releasing mediators impacting tumor progression. Nevertheless, the precise intercellular signaling role of NMSC-derived exosomes remains unclear. This review aims to elucidate their potential role in NMSC diagnosis and treatment. A systematic review encompassed literature searches in electronic databases from inception to September 2023, based on certain inclusion and exclusion criteria, addressing NMSC-derived exosomes, their molecular cargo and their implications in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of NMSC. Key components were identified. Extracellular vesicle (EV) proteins and RNA emerged as diagnostic biomarkers in EV-based liquid biopsy. Circular RNA CYP24A1, known for its molecular stability, holds promise as a diagnostic biomarker. Long noncoding RNAs (lincRNA-PICSAR) and Desmoglein 2 (DSg2) are linked to drug resistance, serving as prognostic biomarkers. EV mediators are actively investigated for their potential role as drug delivery agents. In conclusion, this systematic review showed that NMSC-derived EVs display promise as therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers. Further research is imperative to fully comprehend exosome mechanisms and explore their potential in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Causes and Consequences of Coronavirus Spike Protein Variability
Authors: Zech Fabian , Jung Christoph , Jacob Timo , Kirchhoff Frank
Published: January 2024

Coronaviruses are a large family of diverse enveloped RNA viruses found in numerous animal species. They are well-known for their ability to cross species barriers and have been transmitted from bats or intermediate hosts to humans on several occasions. Four of the seven human coronaviruses (hCoVs) are responsible for approximately 20% of common colds (hCoV-229E, -NL63, -OC43, -HKU1). Two others (SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV) cause severe and frequently lethal respiratory syndromes but have only spread to very limited extents in human populations. In contrast, SARS-CoV-2, while exhibiting intermediate pathogenicity, has a profound impact on public health due to its enormous spread. In this review, we discuss which initial features of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and subsequent adaptations to the new human host may have helped this pathogen to cause the COVID-19 pandemic. Our focus is on host forces driving changes in the Spike protein and their consequences for virus infectivity, pathogenicity, immune evasion and resistance to preventive or therapeutic agents. In addition, we discuss the significance and perspectives of broad-spectrum therapeutics and vaccines.
The Potential Harmful Effects of Genetically Engineered Microorganisms (GEMs) on the Intestinal Microbiome and Public Health
Authors: Lerner Aaron , Benzvi Carina , Vojdani Aristo
Published: January 2024

Gut luminal dysbiosis and pathobiosis result in compositional and biodiversify alterations in the microbial and host co-metabolites. The main mechanism of bacterial evolution is horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and acquisition of new traits can be achieved through mobile genetic element (MGEs) exchange. Introducing genetically engineered microbes (GEMs) might break the harmonized balance in the intestinal compartment. The present objectives are: 1. To reveal the role played by GEMs' horizontal gene transfers in changing the landscape of the enteric microbiome eubiosis 2. To expand on the potential detrimental effects of those changes on human genome and health. A search of articles published in PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scielo from 2000 to august 2023, using appropriate MeSH entry terms were performed. GEMs' horizontal gene exchanges might induce multiple human diseases. The new GEMs can change the long-term natural evolution of the enteric pro- or eukaryotic cells inhabitants. The worldwide regulatory authority's safety control of GEMs is not enough to protect public health. Viability and biocontainment and many other aspects are only partially controlled and harmful consequences for public health should be avoided. Always remember that prevention is the most cost- effective strategy and "primum non nocere" is the name of the game.
In Vitro Combinatorial Activity of Direct Acting Antivirals and Monoclonal Antibodies against the Ancestral B.1 and BQ.1.1 SARS-CoV-2 Viral Variants
Authors: Fiaschi Lia , Biba Camilla , Varasi Ilenia , Bartolini Niccolò , Paletti Chiara , Giammarino Federica , Saladini Francesco , Zazzi Maurizio , Vicenti Ilaria
Published: January 2024

Combination antiviral therapy may be helpful in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection, however no clinical trial data are available and combined use of direct acting antivirals (DAA) and monoclonal antibodies (mAb) has been reported only anecdotally. To assess the cooperative effects of dual drug combinations in vitro, we used a VERO E6 cell based in vitro system with the ancestral B.1 or the highly divergent BQ.1.1 virus to test pairwise combinations of the licensed DAA, including nirmatrelvir (NRM), remdesivir (RDV) and the active metabolite of molnupiravir (EIDD-1931) as well the combination of RDV with four licensed mAbs (sotrovimab, bebtelovimab, cilgavimab, tixagevimab; tested only with the susceptible B.1 virus). According to SynergyFinder 3.0 summary and weighted scores, all the combinations had an additive effect. Within DAA/DAA combinations, paired scores with the B.1 and BQ.1.1 variants were comparable. In the post-hoc analysis weighting synergy by concentrations, several cases of highly synergistic scores were detected at specific drug concentrations, both for DAA/DAA and for RDV/mAb combinations. This was supported by in vitro confirmation experiments showing a more than linear shift of a drug effective concentration (IC50) at increasing concentrations of the companion drug, although the effect was prominent with DAA/DAA combinations but minimal or null with RDV/mAb combinations. These results support a cooperative effects of dual drug combinations in vitro, which should be further investigated in animal models before introduction into the clinic.
Efficacy of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (r-TMS) Therapy on Improving Motor Strength in Storke Patients at Dr. Moewardi Surakarta
Authors: Revianto Ari , Hambarsari Yetty
Published: January 2024

Background: Stroke, an acute neurological dysfunction, poses a health challenge with potential fatality, emerging as a leading cause of long-term disability. This study explores the efficacy of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (r-TMS) with medical rehabilitation in enhancing stroke patients' motor strength, comparing it with standard therapy, focusing on the Medical Research Council score.
Objective: Stroke is an acute manifestation resulting from neurological dysfunction, persisting for ≥24 hours or leading to death due to blood vessel disorders. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of r-TMS therapy in improving stroke patients' motor strength, comparing it with standard therapy based on the Medical Research Council score.
Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a pre-post control group design involved 30 respondents selected through consecutive sampling in stroke units and outpatient clinics. Upper extremity muscle strength, measured with the Medical Research Council score, was analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Result: The post-test ranking value of the r-TMS group (20.56) exceeded that of the Non r-TMS group (10.46). The Mann-Whitney U test indicated a significant difference in the average ranking of the Medical Research Council scores between the two groups (p < 0.05, 0.001), highlighting the efficacy of r-TMS therapy in enhancing motor strength.
Conclusion: This study shows that stroke patients receiving standard therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation exhibit improvements in extremity motor strength compared to those undergoing medical rehabilitation alone. The r-TMS group notably showed a significant increase in extremity motor strength.
High-Precision Grinding of Thin and Large Optical Workpieces with the Kinematic Support
Authors: Hashigaya Takeshi , Kino Masaru , Takahashi Keisuke , Kurita Mikio
Published: January 2024

In fabrication of a thin and large optical element, grinding with the conventional fixture cannot achieve high precision. When such a thin and large workpiece is tightly fixed to the grinder table, the inconsistency in the form of the contact surfaces and thermal expansion of them produce unexpected stress on the workpiece. After finishing grinding with the fixture, the deformation of the ground surface would happen, accompanied by the release of the stress. This paper proposes a stress-free fixture method by removing over-constraint from the fixture structure. Corrective grinding is executed by calculating the deformation of the workpiece due to the load of the grinding wheel. Furthermore, the fixture enables on-machine measurement by an interferometer above the grinder by replicating the same condition as when the optical element is in use. We achieved a precision of RMS 0.30 µm on a one-meter-size glass ceramic of 60 mm in thickness.
COVID-19 Vaccination Rates Among North Dakota Residents Who Gave Birth Between April 1, 2021, and July 15, 2022
Authors: Aguilar Olenka , Woinarowicz Mary
Published: January 2024

Objectives. To assess COVID-19 vaccination rates among North Dakota residents who gave birth.

Methods. We used data from North Dakota Vital Records and the North Dakota Immunization Information System for North Dakota residents who gave birth between April 1, 2021, and July 15, 2022. We evaluated vaccination with 1 dose, primary series, and monovalent booster for timing before and during pregnancy and postpartum.

Results. Among North Dakota residents who gave birth, 44% received at least 1 COVID-19 vaccine, 34% received a complete primary series, and 10% received a monovalent booster dose. Among those who received a COVID-19 vaccine, the majority was vaccinated during pregnancy. Obstetrics and gynecology providers administered just 9.2% of COVID-19 vaccine doses.

Conclusions. Most persons who gave birth in North Dakota did not receive the primary series of the COVID-19 vaccine while pregnant. Providers have an opportunity to counsel their pregnant and recently pregnant patients on vaccine recommendations. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(2):237–240. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307500 )
ERDC-PT : a multidimensional particle tracking model
Authors: Trahan Corey , Cheng Jing-Ru , Hines Amanda
Published: January 2024

This report describes the technical engine details of the particle- and species-tracking software ERDC-PT. The development of ERDC-PT leveraged a legacy ERDC tracking model, “PT123,” developed by a civil works basic research project titled “Efficient Resolution of Complex Transport Phenomena Using Eulerian-Lagrangian Techniques” and in part by the System-Wide Water Resources Program. Given hydrodynamic velocities, ERDC-PT can track thousands of massless particles on 2D and 3D unstructured or converted structured meshes through distributed processing. At the time of this report, ERDC-PT supports triangular elements in 2D and tetrahedral elements in 3D. First-, second-, and fourth-order Runge-Kutta time integration methods are included in ERDC-PT to solve the ordinary differential equations describing the motion of particles. An element-by-element tracking algorithm is used for efficient particle tracking over the mesh. ERDC-PT tracks particles along the closed and free surface boundaries by velocity projection and stops tracking when a particle encounters the open boundary. In addition to passive particles, ERDC-PT can transport behavioral species, such as oyster larvae. This report is the first report of the series describing the technical details of the tracking engine. It details the governing equation and numerical approaching associated with ERDC-PT Version 1.0 contents.
Trends of Medicolegal Autopsy Cases in a Government Medical College in Southern Odisha: An Autopsy based study
Authors:   Assistant Professor,Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, SLN Government Medical College, Koraput 764020, Odisha, India., Munda Bhakta Narayan , Jena Manoj Kumar ,   Professor & Head, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, SLN Government Medical College, Koraput 764020, Odisha, India., Mishra Ashim ,   Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal Tata Medical College, Jamshedpur 576104, Jharkhand, India.
Published: January 2024

introduction: Background: Koraput district is one of the largest forest districts of Odisha with a dominant tribal population. This study was done with the objective to assess the cause and manner of death along with the epidemiological profiling of medicolegal cases and was the first attempt to conduct an autopsy-based study at this recently established Government Medical College of Southern Odisha. Materials and Methods: A record based cross sectional study of total number of 1168 medicolegal autopsies was done conducted at SLN Government Medical College, Koraput during the period 1st January 2019 to 31st December 2021. results: 72.43% of the cases were males with male to female ratio of 2.62:1 with 87.21% cases belong to rural population. Almost 50 percent of cases belonged to young adult age group (21-40 years). The cause of deaths in majority of the cases were due to road traffic accidents (416;35.62%) followed by poisoning cases (278;23.81%). Natural disease was observed in 114 cases (9.77%). Our study revealed that 53.51% of cases were accidental in a manner with 27.22% being due to intentional self-harm. The most preferred method in suicide cases was due to poisoning (206; 64.77%) followed by hanging (64; 20.12%). Unnatural death due to suicidal poisoning was seen more in females (109; 52.9%) as compared to males whereas male preponderance was observed more in hanging (49;76.56%). conclusion: This study could provide valuable insight to authorities for future multidimensional studies.
Impact of Biomedical Engineering on Human & Social Dynamics: A Review on Recent Approaches Through Bioengineering from Recent Past to Post-Covid-19
Authors:   B-Tech Scholar, School of Bioengineering, VIT Bhopal University, Bhopal 462026, Madhya Pradesh, India., Shukla Ujjawal
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The paper aims to discuss the various issues/ problems that people face in day to day life. Using diverse scenarios ranging from mental health issues to common grafting procedures, the author here strives to link these issues to bioengineering and how they are being impacted by modern technology. Most methods and procedures discussed attempt to utilize day-to-day activities and ease of access. The paper has adopted rapid review method. For literature collection, Google scholar database has been used with a scope of specific keywords and time frame of 5 weeks to complete the study.
Epidemiology of Snake Bite in A Medical College in Karnataka
Authors:   Associate Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Karnataka 586103, India, Bhuyyar Chandrashekhar B. , M.R Tyagaraju ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Mahavir Institute of Medical Sciences, Vikarabad 501102, Telangana, India., Gannur Dayanand ,   Professor and HOD,Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Karnataka 586103, India., Kumar Uday ,   Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Karnataka 586103, India., B. Shrikant. ,   Tutor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Karnataka 586103, India., Allagi V. M ,   Tutor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Karnataka 586103, India.
Published: January 2024

Snake bites are a cause of considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. Out of 68 cases, the maximum was between the age group of 20 - 30 years (26%). 47 of 68 (69%) victims were male, and 31% of victims were female. More than half of the victims are farmers. 39 of 68 (>57%) victims belonged to a lower class of socioeconomic status. 24% were illiterates, and 76% were literates. Maximum victims, 91%, were from a rural region. A maximum number of victims, 68% had snake bites in the fields, followed by 19% snake bites at home. 56% of snake bites occurred in the rainy season and 26% in the winter season.
Incidental Findings of Silent Liver Diseases in Autopsy: A Study at Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors:   Final year Post Graduate, Department of Pathology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bangalore 560066, Karnataka, India., S Niveditha. , R. K Radha ,   Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bangalore 560066, Karnataka, India., S Prathima. ,   Professor and HOD, Department of Pathology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bangalore 560066, Karnataka, India.
Published: January 2024

Autopsy survey of 80 cases of liver specimens over a period of 2 years done in Vydehi Institute of Medical Science and Research Center, Department of Pathology, Bangalore. Quite rightly liver is, called “The custodian of the milieu interior” Autopsy study is useful to monitor the cause of death and to planning medical strategy. The term “alcoholic liver disease” encompasses a spectrum of pathologic conditions ranging from isolated steatosis to established cirrhosis. Within this spectrum, varying degrees of inﬂammation, hepatocellular ballooning degeneration, hepatocyte necrosis, cholestasis, and fibrosis may be encountered. This article reviews the characteristic histologic features of the many forms of alcoholic liver disease.
Histopathological Spectrum of Appendicectomy Specimens with Emphasis on Unusual Findings
Authors:   Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College, Kalaburagi 585105, Karnataka, India., Andola Sainath K , Patil Priyanka ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology, Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College, Kalaburagi 585105, Karnataka, India, Patil Rohit ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College, Kalaburagi 585105, Karnataka, India., Andola Shruti Sainath ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, KLE’S Dr Prabhahkar Kore Hospital and J N Medical College, Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The present study was carried out to assess the value of routine histopathological examination of appendectomy specimens An attempt is made to review the histopathological spectrum of appendectomy over a period of 2 years and 3 months. aims and objectives: To study the spectrum of histopathological lesions in appendectomy specimens and special emphasis is made to highlight the unusual lesions observed in surgically resected appendicectomies and appendices in medicolegal autopsies. material and methods: The study was carried out on appendectomy specimens received in the department of pathology Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College during a period of 2 years and 3 months from Jan 2019 to March 2021. Clinical data collected from records of corresponding appendectomy specimens were processed. Sections studied various histopathological patterns with an emphasis on unusual findings. results: A total of 500 specimens were analyzed among which 298 were males and 202 were females with M: F 1.4:1. The histopathological examination showed Acute appendicitis (57.4%), Acute ulcerative appendicitis (0.8%), Recurrent/Eosinophilic appendicitis (03%), Acute necrotizing appendicitis (1.6%), Acute appendicitis with periappendicitis (1.4%), Acute suppurative appendicitis (2.4%), Gangrenous appendicitis (0.8%), Healed appendicitis (2.2%), Chronic appendicitis (25.2%) and Chronic sclerosing appendicitis (1.0%). The unusual fngings were observed in 22 cases (4.4%) which include Tubercular appendicitis (1.0%), Foreign body granuloma (0.8%), Xanthogranulomatous appendicitis (0.2%), Enterobiusvermicularis (0.8%), Round worm (0.2%), Retention mucocele (0.4%), Carcinoid tumor (0.4%), Mucinous adenocarcinoma (0.4%) and Metastatic adenocarcinoma (0.2%). conclusion: Though the present study revealed usual findings of appendicitis and variants in most of the cases, the observation of unusual findings like granulomas, parasites, and neoplasms warrants a careful study of all appendectomy specimens received in the pathology department with emphasis on relevant clinical and laboratory findings thus modulating the management and follow up.