bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Omega-3 Fatty acid supplementation during chronic maternal hypoxia on behavioral disorders in male rat offspring
Authors: Ghotbeddin Zohreh , Khazaeel Kaveh , Tabandeh Mohammad-Reza , Aliheydari Maryam , Yaghobi Hooshyar
Published: March 2022

Background: Maternal hypoxia due to a lack of blood flow and insufficient oxygen supply in the brain leads to behavioral disorders in adult offspring. Fish oil includes docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a major component of membrane phospholipids of nerve cells, improved cognition and memory. Trk family receptors are activated by hypoxic induction factor (HIF) and are involved in the neurotrophin's protective effects at the cellular level. Here we studied the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of the protective effect of fish oil during the chronic maternal hypoxia model on behavioral responses in male rat offspring. Methods: Pregnant female rats were randomly divided into 4 experimental groups: 1) ctr; Control rats were pregnant 2) Hyp; Pregnant female rats recived hypoxia from 6th to 15th day of pregnancy with 10% oxygen intensity and 90% nitrogen; 3) FO; Pregnant female rats recived fish oil (F8020 1ml / day, for ten consecutive days Orally) and 4) FO / Hyp; Pregnant female rats received hypoxia plus fish oil in the same manner. Behavioral parameters were evaluated in 28-day-old male offspring. HIF-1α, TrkB, and P75 gene expression were measured in the offspring brain.Result: Maternal hypoxia impaired memory performance and locomotor activity in offspring.Besides, Trk family genes expression and oxidative stress indicators showed a significant increase in the brains of offspring exposed to maternal hypoxia compared to the control group. Conclusion: Overall, fish oil improved behavioral parameters by inhibiting oxidative stress and the expression of Trk family receptors.
Incidence and Risk Factors of Opportunistic Infections After Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation: A nationwide, population-based cohort study in Korea
Authors: Kim Da Jung , Jeong Seri , Kong Seom Gim , Lee Sangjin , Lim Sung-Nam , Oh Sung Yong , Do Young Rok , Lee Won Sik , Lee Mark Hong , Bae Sung Hwa , Kim Se Hyung , Kim Min Kyoung , Lee Ho Sup
Published: March 2022

Several guidelines classify autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) as a low to intermediate risk group for infection. In a nationwide population-based study, using the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database, patients with lymphoma and multiple myeloma (MM) who underwent ASCT from 2002 to 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Cumulative incidence rates (CIRs) and risk factors of opportunistic infections were investigated. CIRs of fungal, Varicella zoster virus (VZV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Pneumocystis jirovecii infections in lymphoma were 7.9%, 16.0%, 7.4%, and 5.1%, respectively, and CIRs in MM were 6.3%, 19.1%, 4.2%, and 5.6%, respectively. Fungal infection was significantly higher in patients with previous infection (Hazard ratio (HR) 2.003, p = 0.005) in lymphoma. Incidence of CMV infection was significantly higher in patients with prior infection: HR 4.920, p < 0.001 (lymphoma); HR 3.022, p = 0.030 (MM). VZV infection was significantly lower in patients receiving prophylaxis: HR 0.082, p < 0.001 (lymphoma); HR 0.096, p < 0.001 (MM). For P. jirovecii infection, busulfex and melphalan conditioning (HR 1.875, p = 0.032) and previous infection (HR 4.810, p < 0.001 in patients with MM only) had a higher incidence. Patients who underwent ASCT should receive VZV prophylaxis and prophylaxis for fungal and P. jirovecii may be considered in patients with previous same infection.
Orthostatic Intolerance as a Potential Contributor to Prolonged Fatigue and Inconsistent Performance in Elite Swimmers
Authors: Petracek Lindsay S. , Eastin Ella F. , Rowe Ian R. , Rowe Peter C
Published: March 2022

Background
Athletic underperformance is characterized by fatigue and an inability to sustain a consistent exercise workload. We describe five elite swimmers with prolonged fatigue and athletic underperformance in whom an approach that focused on orthostatic intolerance was associated with improved function.
Methods
Participants were referred for evaluation of fatigue and underperformance to the Chronic Fatigue Clinic at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. All patients were evaluated for overtraining syndrome, as well as for features commonly seen in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The latter included joint hypermobility, orthostatic intolerance, and non-IgE mediated milk protein intolerance. Orthostatic intolerance was tested by performing a ten-minute passive standing test or a head-up tilt table test.
Results
Orthostatic testing provoked fatigue and other symptoms in all five swimmers, two of whom met heart rate criteria for postural tachycardia syndrome. Treatment was individualized, primarily consisting of an increased intake of sodium chloride and fluids to address orthostasis. All patients experienced a relatively prompt improvement in fatigue and other orthostatic symptoms and were able to either return to their expected level of performance or improve their practice consistency.
Conclusions
Orthostatic intolerance was an easily measured and treatable contributor to athletic underperformance in the five elite swimmers we describe. We suggest that passive standing tests or formal tilt table tests be incorporated into the clinical evaluation of athletes with fatigue and underperformance as well as into scientific studies of this topic. Recognition and treatment of orthostatic intolerance provides a new avenue for improving outcomes in underperforming athletes.
Mechanism of Reduced Muscle Atrophy via Ketone Body (D)-3-Hydroxybutyrate
Authors: Chen Jin , Li Zihua , Zhang Yudian , Zhang Xu , Zhang Shujie , Liu Zonghan , Yuan Huimei , Pang Xiangsheng , Liu Yaxuan , Tao Wuchen , CHEN Xiaoping , ZHANG Peng , Chen Guo-Qiang
Published: March 2022

Background:Muscle atrophy is an increasingly global health problem affecting millions, there is a lack of clinical drugs or effective therapy. Excessive loss of muscle mass is the typical characteristic of muscle atrophy, manifesting as muscle weakness accompanied by impaired metabolism of protein and nucleotide. (D)-3-hydroxybutyrate (3HB), one of the main components of the ketone body, has been reported to be effective for the obvious hemodynamic effects in atrophic cardiomyocytes and exerts beneficial metabolic reprogramming effects in healthy muscle. This study aims to exploit how the 3HB exerts therapeutic effects for treating muscle atrophy induced by hindlimb unloaded mice.Results:Anabolism/catabolism balance of muscle protein was maintained with 3HB via the Akt/FoxO3a and the mTOR/4E-BP1 pathways; protein homeostasis of 3HB regulation includes pathways of ubiquitin–proteasomal, autophagic-lysosomal, responses of unfolded-proteins, heat shock and anti-oxidation. Metabolomic analysis revealed the effect of 3HB decreased purine degradation and reduced the uric acid in atrophied muscles; enhanced utilization from glutamine to glutamate also provides evidence for the promotion of 3HB during the synthesis of proteins and nucleotides.Conclusions:3HB significantly inhibits the loss of muscle weights, myofiber sizes and myofiber diameters in hindlimb unloaded mouse model; it facilitates positive balance of proteins and nucleotides with enhanced accumulation of glutamate and decreased uric acid in wasting muscles, revealing effectiveness for treating muscle atrophy.
Impact of Tight Glycemic Control and Hypoglycemia After Pediatric Cardiac Surgery on Neurodevelopmental Outcomes at Three Years of Age: Findings from a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sadhwani Anjali , Asaro Lisa A. , Goldberg Caren , Ware Janice , Butcher Jennifer , Gaies Michael , Smith Cynthia , Alexander Jamin L. , Wypij David , Agus Michael S.D.
Published: March 2022

Background: Studies examining the impact of randomization to tight glycemic control (TGC) and resultant hypoglycemia on later neurodevelopmental outcomes have produced mixed results. Our study examined this association in children undergoing cardiac surgery.Methods: Participants who were enrolled in the Safe Pediatric Euglycemia after Cardiac Surgery (SPECS) trial returned for neurodevelopmental (ND) follow-up between 30 to 42.5 months of age. ND outcomes were assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition. ND scores were compared between the TGC and standard care groups and between patients with moderate to severe and no to mild hypoglycemia. To increase sample size and power, we combined the three-year-old assessments with previously collected assessments (at 9 to 42.5 months of age) to further examine differences between groups.Results: At three years of age, there were no statistically significant differences in ND outcomes according to treatment group or hypoglycemia status. In the combined analysis, we found no group differences. However, children who experienced moderate to severe hypoglycemia had lower scores on the Bayley-III cognitive and motor domains compared to children with no to mild hypoglycemia. Conclusions: For infants undergoing cardiac surgery, moderate to severe hypoglycemia, but not randomization to TGC, was associated with worse ND outcomes.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00443599. Registered: November 2016.
A Colorimetric Distinct Color Change Cu(II) 4-{[1-(2,5- dihydroxyphenyl)ethylidene]amino}-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one Chemosensor and its Application as a paper test kit
Authors: Patil Nilima , Dhake Rajesh , Phalak Raju , Fegade Umesh , Ramalingan Chennan , Saravanan Vadivel , Inamuddin . , Altalhi Tariq
Published: March 2022

A “4-{[1-(2,5-dihydroxyphenyl)ethylidene]amino}-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-3H-pyrazol-3-one” chemosensor (C1) synthesized by Condensation reaction using “4-amino-1,2-dihydro-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenylpyrazol-3-one” and “2,5-dihydroxy Actophenone”. It shows absorption peak at 326 nm due to the C=C bond (π-π* transition), while the absorption peak at 364 nm is caused by the C=O bond (n-π* transition). In the presence of copper C1 only demonstrated a change in absorption peak to higher wavelength (redshift) from 364 to 425 nm. The hue of both the C1+Cu(II) complex changed from bright yellow to dark brown colour with hypochromic shift appearance of a new peak at 425 nm. Even in the presence of other competing metal ions, the hypsochromic shift of the absorption band and the quenching of the fluorescence emission intensity were different for detecting Cu2+, in CH3OH-H2O (v/v = 6:4). Job's plot was used to compute the binding stoichiometry between C1 and Cu2+, and MASS and FTIR spectrophotometry were used to investigate the complexation process. The capacity of the C1 to bind Cu2+ was further proven using DFT simulations. The complex S1+Cu2+ has a HOMO-LUMO energy gap of 2.8002 eV, which is lesser than S1 (2.9991 eV). From these results, it can be seen that the specific binding of S1 to Cu2+ improves the stability of the S1+Cu2+ complex and effectively reduces the HOMO-LUMO energy gap. The C1 was successfully used in a real-world water sample analysis. Using the Benesi-Hildebrand and Scatchard plots, the Kb was calculated and found to be 47340M-1 and 48369M-1 respectively, showing the creation of stable complexation between Cu2+ and S1 with 1:1 Stoichiometry. The LOD of S1 for Cu2+ ion analysis was determined to be 649 nM. Strip sheets were also built and tested to detect varying amounts of Cu2+ aqueous solution, and their color change suggested that they might be used for on-site Cu2+ detection in polluted water.
Evaluation of sparing the pronator quadratus for volar plating of distal radius fractures: a retrospective clinical study
Authors: Zhao Yan , Huang Xiaoxia , Jia Qiyu , Li Huaqiang , Kerem Erxat , Peng Cong , Kong Weiqi , Tusunniyazi Maimaitiaili , Hamiti Yimurang , Feng Dongwei
Published: March 2022

Background: The most commonly used approach for distal radius fractures is the traditional Henry approach. However, it requires an intraoperative incision of the pronator quadratus (PQ) muscle, which results in a series of complications if the repair of the PQ fails.Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of sparing the pronator quadratus for volar plating of the distal radius fractures.Methods: Seventy-six patients who suffered from distal radius fractures of types 23-B, 23-C1, and 23-C2 as per the AO Foundation and Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) classification were treated with volar locking plate fixation using either the PQ muscle incision and repair (group A, n = 39) or the PQ muscle preservation approach (group B, n = 37). Intraoperative index, postoperative efficacy, and complications of the patients were evaluated.Results: All patients were followed up for more than one year after surgery. All fractures achieved union. There were significant differences in mean operative time, mean intraoperative blood loss, and mean fracture healing time between the two groups. Still, there were no significant differences in limb function scores between the two groups at the 12-month postoperative follow-up. Outcomes assessed at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery demonstrated significant differences in the mean range of motion and the visual analog scale (VAS) between the two groups. As the range of motion and grip strength increased, the VAS scores decreased, and there was no significant difference between the two groups at 12 months postoperatively. Although tendon irritation and delayed carpal tunnel syndrome were more common in group A than in group B (7.6% vs. 0% and 5.1% vs. 0%, respectively), the differences were not statistically significant.Conclusion: The modified Henry approach with sparing pronator quadratus muscle has no significant advantage in the range of wrist motion and upper limb function in the late stage. Nevertheless, the intraoperative placement of the plate under the pronator quadratus muscle can shorten the operation time, reduce intraoperative bleeding, reduce early postoperative pain, promote early activity, and improve the patient's quality of life. It is recommended that the pronator be preserved at the time of surgery.
Correlates and determinants of transport-related physical activity among adults: An interdisciplinary systematic review
Authors: Evans Jack , Phan Hoang , Buscot Marie-Jeanne , Gall Seana , Cleland Verity
Published: March 2022

Introduction - Transport-related physical activity (TRPA) has been identified as a way to increase physical activity due to its discretionary and habitual nature. Factors thought to influence TRPA span multiple disciplines and are rarely systematically considered in unison. This systematic review aimed to identify cross-sectional and longitudinal factors associated with adult TRPA across multiple research disciplines. Methods - Using four electronic databases, a systematic search of English, peer-reviewed literature from 2010 – 2020 was performed. Studies quantitatively examining factors associated with the outcome of adult TRPA were eligible. Results - Seventy-three studies (n=66 cross-sectional; n=7 longitudinal) were included, cumulatively reporting data from 1,278,632 observations. Thirty-six factors were examined for potential association with TRPA and presented in a social-ecological framework: individual (n=15), social (n=3), and environmental (n=18). Seven factors were found to be consistently associated with higher adult TRPA: lower socio-economic status, higher self-efficacy, higher social normalization, lower distance of travel, higher destination concentration, more streetlighting, and higher public transportation frequency with a greater number of terminals near route start and endpoints. Conclusions - This is the first comprehensive compilation of the correlates and determinants of adult TRPA. Seven individual, social, and environmental factors demonstrated consistent associations with TRPA. Models formed using these factors may facilitate more effective promotion of TRPA. There is a lack of longitudinal studies as well as studies assessing cognitive/attitudinal and social factors, highlighting gaps for further research. Those developing policies and strategies targeting TRPA need to consider a range of factors at the individual, social, and environmental level to maximise the likelihood of effectiveness.
Interaction Between Thin Conductive Fibers and Microwave Radiation
Authors: Kokodii Mykola G. , Natarova Anastasia , Genzarovskiy Andriy , Priz Ivan
Published: March 2022

We study the effect of an anomalously strong interaction of electromagnetic radiation with very thin conducting fibers. Metal, semiconductor or graphite fibers, which diameter is several hundred times smaller than the radiation wavelength, strongly absorb and scatter the electromagnetic waves, which electric vector is parallel to the fiber axis. The efficiency factors of attenuation, absorption, scattering and pressure of radiation for fibers with a diameter of several micrometers in the centimeter and millimeter ranges reach several thousand. We determine the nature of this effect. It occurs when the transverse dimension of the fiber is comparable to the thickness of the skin layer. Then the electric field of the incident wave fills the entire volume of the fiber, and the absorbed power is the highest. We also provide a theoretical analysis of such effect, determine conditions for its existence: the ratio between the radiation wavelength and the diameter of the fiber, the value of conductivity. We also provide an experimental study of the effect, when unfocused radiation beam with a wavelength of 8 mm at the output of waveguide with a \(7.2 \times 3.4\) mm cross section transfers more than 10% of the beam power to a 12 µm diameter graphite fiber. We make an analysis of the mathematical model of the process of heating of graphite fiber by a microwave radiation beam. Then we solve a heat conduction equation and find the temperature distribution along the fiber, which is in agreement with the measured one.
Fenbendazole Attenuates Bleomycin-induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Mice via Suppression of Fibroblast-to-myofibroblast Differentiation
Authors: Wang Lan , Xu Kai , Wang Ningdan , Zhao Wenyu , Wan Ruyan , Zhao Weiming , Guo Xiaoshu , Pan Xin , Yu Guoying
Published: March 2022

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive, and fatal interstitial lung disease with unknown etiology. Despite substantial progress in our understanding of pulmonary fibrosis pathogenesis and drug development, there is still no cure for this devastating disease. Fenbendazole (FBZ) is a benzimidazole compound that is widely used as an anthelmintic agent and recent studies have expanded the scope of its pharmacological effects and application prospect. In this study, we demonstrated that FBZ treatment blunt bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis in mice. In vitro study showed that FBZ inhibited the proliferation and migration of human embryo lung fibroblasts. Further studies showed that FBZ significantly inhibited glucose consumption, moderated glycolytic metabolism in fibroblasts, thus activated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and reduced activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, thereby inhibiting transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β1)-induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation and collagen synthesis. In summary, our data suggested that FBZ has the potential as a novel treatment of pulmonary fibrosis and other fibrotic diseases.
E2 Level >2950 pg/ml on hCG Trigger Day is An Independent Predictor for Birthweight Loss of Full-Term Singletons Born After Fresh Embryo Transfers in Non-PCOS Patients
Authors: Wu Jing , Zhang Hengde , Wang Xiaohong
Published: March 2022

Background: Previous studies have demonstrated that the supraphysiological E2 level is negatively correlated with birthweight. However, the cut-off value of E2 level that significantly affects birthweight is unknown, and there is no definite conclusion regarding this level. Our study aimed to explore the threshold of the effect of E2 levels on birthweight.Design: A retrospective cohort study of 1,846 samples was performed. All patients ≤42-years-old underwent autologous IVF cycles between August 1st, 2016 and April 30th, 2020. We categorized our data into four groups according to the E2 level: Group 1: ≤2,000 pg/mL; Group 2: 2,001–3,000 pg/mL; Group 3: 3,001–4,000 pg/mL; and Group 4: >4,000 pg/mL.Results: The results of the multivariate regression analyses showed that when the E2 level was 3,001-4,000 pg/mL (adjusted β: -89.64, 95% [CI]: -180.29 to -6.01; P=0.0336) and greater than 4,000 pg/mL (adjusted β: -138.10, 95% [CI]: -272.87 to -10.33; P=0.0181), weight loss was significant. Furthermore, the odds of full-term SGA were 1.40 times higher with E2 levels of 3,001-4,000 pg/mL (adjusted OR: 1.40, 95% [CI]: 1.090 to 3.18; P=0.0256) and 2.55 times higher with E2 >4,000 pg/mL (adjusted OR: 2.55, 95% [CI]: 1.84 to 3.86; P=0.0063) compared to the reference group. It can also be seen from the adjusted curves and the threshold effects that when the E2 level >2,950 pg/mL and >3,121 pg/mL, the incidence of SGA increased and the birthweight decreased, respectively.Conclusions: Our data suggest that E2 levels >2,950 pg/mL is an independent predictor for greater odds of full-term SGA singletons born after fresh embryo transfer.
Fatty liver is associated with significant liver inflammation but does not increase fibrosis burden in Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Dai Yi-Ning , Meng Di , Xu Cheng-Fu , Yu Chao-Hui , Pan Hong-Ying
Published: March 2022

Background: Concurrent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is common in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). But the impact of fatty liver on the histologic progression of CHB remains controversial.Methods: Consecutive CHB patients who underwent liver biopsy between 2016 and 2021 were included. Alcohol consumption and other types of viral hepatitis were excluded. All biopsies were scored for grading and staging by Scheuer’s score, and the steatosis was scored as an estimate of the percentage of liver parenchyma replaced by fat. Logistic regression analyses were applied to assess the associated factors for significant liver inflammation (G≥2) and significant fibrosis (S≥2). Results: Among the 873 CHB patients, hepatic steatosis was prevalent in 255 patients (29.21%). Significant liver inflammation was present in 461 patients (52.81%), while significant fibrosis was observed in 527 patients (60.37%). Fatty liver was an independent risk factor for significant liver inflammation (OR: 2.117, 95% CI: 1.500-2.988), but it could not predict significant fibrosis. We developed a predictive model for significant liver inflammation with the area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.825, and a model for significant fibrosis with the AUROC of 0.760.Conclusions: NAFLD is independently associated with significant liver inflammation, but does not increase the fibrosis severity.
Plasmonic Colloidal Au Nanoparticles in DMSO: A Facile Synthesis and Characterisation
Authors: Dzhagan Volodymyr , Kapush Olga , Plokhovska Svitlana , Buziashvili Anastasiya , Pirko Yaroslav , Yeshchenko Oleg , Yukhymchuk Volodymyr , Yemets Alla , Zahn Dietrich RT
Published: March 2022

We report a new pathway for the synthesis of plasmonic gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) in a bio-compatible medium. A modified room temperature approach based on the standard Turkevich synthesis, using sodium citrate as a reducing and stabilizing agent, results in highly stable “colloidal” suspension of Au NPs in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The mean NP size of about 15 nm with fairly low size distribution is revealed by scanning electron microscopy. The stability test through UV-vis absorption spectroscopy indicates no sign of aggregation for months. The Au NPs are also characterized by X-ray photoelectron, Raman scattering, and FTIR spectroscopies. The stabilisation mechanism of the Au NPs in DMSO is concluded to be similar to that of NPs synthesized in water. The Au NPs obtained in this work are applicable as SERS substrates, as proved by common analytes. In terms of bio-applications, they do not possess such side effect as pronounced antibacterial activity, based on the tests performed on non-pathogenic Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria.
Enhancement photocatalytic activity of Mn doped CdS/ZnO nanocomposites for the degradation of methylene blue under solar light irradiation
Authors: Jegan Dharmaraja , Sivaranjani R. , Sivakumar S.
Published: March 2022

Heterogeneous photocatalysis is an effective and gifted waste water treatment technology for the removal of textile effluents. Among the effective photocatalytic treatment, Hybrid semiconductor photocatalysts have been extensively applied and received greater attention in the last few decades. This effective statement has a predominate key for choosing hybrid nanocomposite photocatalysis. In this study, Mn doped CdS/ZnO nanocomposites synthesized by co-precipitation method and its photocatalytic activity tested using methylene blue under solar light irradiation. The as prepared hybrid nanocomposites is characterized by using different physicochemical techniques including X-ray diffraction, FESEM, EDX, TEM, UV-vis DRS and PL analysis. The photocatalytic degradation results have revealed that the Mn doped CdS/ZnO nanocomposites exhibits admirable activity toward the photocatalytic degradation of the MB. The fitted kinetic plots were showed a pseudo-first-order reaction model and the appropriate rate constants were found to be 0.0068 min− 1, 0.00846 min− 1, and 0.0188 min− 1, for ZnO, 25% CdS/ZnO, and 0.8 mol% Mn doped CdS/ZnO nanocomposites, respectively. The maximum photocatalytic activity was achieved by 0.8 mol% Mn doped CdS/ZnO nanocomposites with a 95% degradation efficiency of MB. Hydroxyl and superoxide radicals were having a vital role in the degradation of MB, confirmed by scavenging experiments. In addition, the recycling tests display that the Mn doped CdS/ZnO nanocomposites shows good stability and long durability. The enhanced photodegradation activity of Mn doped CdS/ZnO nanocomposites indicates the potential of the nanocomposite for the treatment of organic pollutants from the textile wastewater.
Ruptured mycotic aneurysm of intercostal arteries associated with vertebral osteomyelitis: A case report
Authors: Tsukamoto Masatsugu , Morimoto Tadatsugu , Yoshihara Tomohito , Mawatari Masaaki
Published: March 2022

BackgroundHere, we report a rare case of massive hemothorax caused by rupture of an intercostal artery pseudoaneurysm associated with pyogenic spondylitis, which was successfully treated with endovascular intervention.Case presentationA 49-year-old man with schizophrenia, idiopathic esophageal rupture, postoperative mediastinal abscess, and pyothorax, diagnosed with pyogenic spondylitis caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography (CT) showed extensive vertebral body destruction. The patient underwent a two-stage operation: anterior vertebral debridement and fixation with iliac bone graft and posterior fixation with instrumentation. Seven days postoperatively, the patient’s right chest pain increased, his blood pressure dropped, and he had shock. Chest X-ray showed massive hemothorax in the right lung. Chest CT and subsequent intercostal arteriography showed a pseudoaneurysm in the right T8 intercostal artery and active contrast extravasation from it. This seemed ruptured mycotic aneurysms involving intercostal vessels. These vessels were successfully embolized using micro-coils. Then, the patient completed the prescribed antimicrobial therapy in the hospital without any complications.ConclusionsIntercostal artery aneurysms are rare vascular abnormalities. They have the risk of rupture and may sometimes cause hemothorax and can be potentially life-threatening. Septic embolization from infective endocarditis and contiguous spread of local infection can cause intercostal artery mycotic aneurysms. In this patient, the aneurysm was deemed caused by septic embolization, not surgical manipulation. There are no established criteria for treating intercostal artery aneurysms. Ruptured intercostal artery pseudoaneurysms are a good indication of endovascular intervention, and prompt embolization saved the life of the patient in this case report. Endovascular treatment should be the first choice even in ruptured cases. Doppler ultrasonography and CT are the most appropriate diagnostic modalities for evaluating intercostal artery pseudoaneurysms. In this patient, CT could depict an intercostal aneurysm. Appropriate diagnosis and prompt treatment of these rare vascular lesions are essential in preventing rupture. This case report highlights the possibility of a ruptured intercostal mycotic aneurysm in patients with pyogenic spondylitis and reminds physicians to be alert of this rare but potentially fatal complication.
Smallholder Farmers Participation in Small-Scale Irrigation: The Case of Emba Alaje District, Tigray regional state, Ethiopia
Authors: Phogella Moges Girmay , Anbaw Workie Sahlu
Published: March 2022

The dependency on rain fed agriculture coupled with the erratic nature of rainfall is the major factors blamed for the poor performance of the agricultural sector of widespread food insecurity in the country. To solve this problem, use of the available water resources for irrigation development is the most promising option. This study was conducted to identify determinant factors of household’s participation in irrigation in the Emba Alaje district. In this study, multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 137 target respondents. The primary data were collected using an interview schedule and conducting focus group discussions and key informant interview. Various documents were reviewed to collect the secondary data. The probit model result indicates that participation in small-scale irrigation is positively and significantly influenced by livestock holding, total cultivated land size, and frequency of extension contact. Whereas, participation in small-scale irrigation is negatively influenced by age of the household head, distance to irrigation water and distance to farmer training center. participation in small-scale irrigation. To solve the problems and improve small-scale irrigation participation, the government, especially irrigation development office of the district should create awareness to farmers about utilization of irrigation scheme.
Minimally Invasive Cerclage Wiring Technique for Femoral Fracture Fixation : Technical Note and Cases Series
Authors: Hsiao Yu-Ning , Wu Tsung-Mu , Chien Chi-Sheng , Lin Sheng-Hui
Published: March 2022

BackgroundCerclage wiring has become less popular because of the development of minimally invasive fixation and concerns regarding neurovascular injury. However, cerclage constructs provide hoop pressure resistance, which complements plating and intramedullary nailing fixation. We developed a minimally invasive cerclage wiring technique to achieve high fixation rigidity and reliable bony union.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study enrolled 6 men and 12 women (mean age, 63.2 years) who underwent internal fixation at any time between May 2005 and May 2021 with nailing and a minimally invasive technique for wiring.ResultsWhen the nail system and minimally invasive cerclage wiring technique were applied, all patients exhibited optimal reduction and alignment of both fracture sites under intra-operative fluoroscopy. No intra-operative complications were noted. Radiography revealed proper alignment and satisfactory union of the fractures at the final follow up.ConclusionsThe minimally invasive wiring technique for spiral-, oblique-, and wedge-type femoral fracture provided satisfactory reduction, stability, and healing. It causes less soft tissue injury and periosteal stripping than does an open wiring technique. It serves as an alternative adjunct for achieving closed reduction and maintaining the reduction of difficult femoral fractures.
Association between polymorphisms in the gene encoding beta-defensin 1 and gingivitis, in children
Authors: Nelson-Filho Paulo , Azulay Marcos , Lucisano Marília Pacífico , Silva Lea Assed Bezerra da , Silva Raquel Assed Bezerra da , Vasconcelos Katia Regina , Küchler Erika Calvano
Published: March 2022

Background
The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible association between genetic polymorphisms in DEFB1 (rs1799946 and rs11362) and the development of gingivitis in children from the Amazon region of Brazil.
Methods
The study included 27 healthy children, 10–12 years old, from public schools in Manaus. For the oral examination, the parameters described in the gingival index of Löe and Silness were used to identify the presence or absence of gingivitis. The dependent variable was categorized as “Yes” for children with gingivitis (experimental group; n = 10) and “No” for children without gingivitis (control group; n = 17). Genomic DNA was extracted from saliva, the selected polymorphisms in the DEFB1 gene (rs1799946 and rs11362) were genotyped by TaqMan PCR and an endpoint analysis was performed. Genotypic and allelic distribution between groups was performed using the Fisher's exact test with an established alpha of 5%.
Results
It was found that evaluated SNPs in the DEFB1 gene (rs1799946 and rs11362) were not associated with gingivitis (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
The single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of references rs1799946 and rs11362 in the DEFB1 gene had no function on gingivitis, promoting neither harmful nor beneficial effects, in children.
Altered miR-10, miR-24a, miR-124, and miR-21 Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Abolghasemi Mahsa , Ashrafi Sepide Ali , Asadi Milad , Shanehbandi Dariush , Etehad Saeed Sadigh , Poursaei Elham , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Shaafi Sheida
Published: March 2022

Background: MicroRNAs (miRs) are involved in the autoimmune and neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS), through modulating post-transcriptional gene regulation. Accumulating evidence indicates that miR-10, miR-24a, miR-124 and miR-21 play an imperative role in MS pathogenesis. Therefore, the current research aimed to survey the potential of these miRs as diagnostic targets for MS in Iranian population. Methods and Results: Blood sample of 75 relapsing-remitting MS patients and 75 healthy individuals suffering no neurodegenerative illness was collected. Subsequently, the isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was performed by employing Ficoll-Hypaque density gradient method. Afterward, total RNA was extracted and subjected to qRT-PCR analysis.The obtained results evidenced that the relative expression of miR-10 (P=0.0002), miR-21 (P=0.0014) and miR-124 (P=0.0091) significantly decreased in relapsing-remitting MS patients compared to healthy participants. On the contrary, no notable change was observed between the studies groups regarding miR-24a expression levels (P=0.107). Furthermore, the ROC curve analysis illustrated that miR-10, miR-124 and miR-21 could serve as promising diagnostic targets for MS. Conclusions: The change in miR-10, miR-124, and miR-21 expression patterns was implied to participate in MS development and could serve as potential novel diagnostic targets in relapsing-remitting MS.
Effect of unreinforced masonry infill walls with and without ECC layer performance of R.C framed structure
Authors: metwaly Mohamed
Published: March 2022

Reinforced concrete infilled-frames (IF) are commonly used in buildings in the world nowadays. They are often built schools, offices, dwellings, and hospitals, and other kinds of residential and public buildings. The infilled is generally considered a nonstructural element and is ignored in design and analysis despite his strong interaction with the bounding RC frame. Recently, the engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC) layer is utilized to improve the behavior of numerous structural elements. In this research, the behavior of infilled frames are inspected through studying four frame models; bare frame (BF) as a control model, infilled-frame (IF), infilled-frame provided with a single layer of ECC (SIF), and infilled-frame provided with double layers of ECC (DIF). Verification studies are performed on one previous experimental works through nonlinear pushover analysis. The analysis showed that providing the infilled-frame models with the ECC layer increases its capacity.
Comparison of the biomechanical effects of lumbar disc degeneration on normal patients and osteoporotic patients: a finite element analysis
Authors: Zhang Xin-Ying , Han Ye
Published: March 2022

Background: With an increasing life expectancy, more and more people suffered from age-related diseases and sought more medical care. Disc degeneration and osteoporosis were typical orthopaedic diseases in this situation. And there was a lack of FE studies that predicted combined effects of the disc degeneration and osteoporosis.Methods: A normal lumbar spine finite element model (FEM) was developed based on the geometric information of a normal male subject (age 35 years; height 178 cm; weight 65 kg). This normal lumbar spine FEM was modified to build three lumbar spine degeneration models simulating mild, moderate, and severe grades of disc degeneration at L4-L5 segment. Then the degenerative lumbar spine models for osteoporotic patients were constructed on the basis of the above mentioned degeneration models. Under a 400N follower compressive load, the 7.5 Nm moment was applied on these models to simulate different motion postures. Finally, the range of motion (ROM), Mises stress in cortical (MSC1), Mises stress in endplate (MSE), Mises stress in cancellous (MSC2) and Mises stress in post (MSP) were solved and analyzed.Results: The results indicated that compared with disc degeneration patients without osteoporosis, the ROM, MSC1 and MSE of osteoporosis patients suffering from various disc degeneration decreased in all postures, while the MSC2 and MSP of disc degeneration patients with osteoporosis increased. With the increase in degree of disc degeneration, the reduction proportions of ROM and MSE in osteoporotic patients almost gradually increased, while the reduction percentages in MSC1 of osteoporotic patients almost gradually decreased. And the increase percentages of MSC2 in osteoporotic patients gradually increased. It's worth noting that, with the progressive changes of disc degeneration, the changes of MSP in osteoporosis patients were uneven.Conclusions: In summary, the effect of disc degeneration on flexibility in the two kinds of patients (osteoporosis and non-osteoporosis patients) was nearly identical. By comparing the remaining biomechanical parameters (MSC1, MSE, MSC2 and MSP), we found that osteoporosis may accelerate disc degeneration and the osteoporotic patients who suffer from disc degeneration had a higher risk of vertebral fracture.
FBPP: Software to design PCR primers and probes for nucleic acid base detection method of foodborne pathogen
Authors: Soliman Mohamed A. , Azab Mohamed , Hussein Hala A. , Roushdy Mohamed M. , el-naga Mohamed N. Abu
Published: March 2022

Many foods have foodborne pathogens, and detection of it, is very important to serve safe supply of food, consequently reduce of foodborne diseases. Nucleic acid base detection method is one of the most rapid widely methods used in the detection of foodborne pathogens, it depends on the hybridizing between target sequence of the nucleic acid and oligonucleotide primers or probes complementary to the specific nucleic acid sequence of the targeted bacteria. Designing primers and probes for this method is a preliminary and critical step‏.‏ however, new bioinformatics tools are needed to automate, specific and improve the design sets to be used in Nucleic Acid base method. Thus, we developed Foodborne Pathogen primer prob design (FBPP), ‎an open-source Python-based application supported with SQL database for foodborne pathogen virulence factor, for (i) ‎ design primer /probe for detection purpose (ii) PCR & Gel electrophoreses Photo simulation (iii) check the specificity of primers / probe.
Performance of proportional assist ventilation plus (PAV+) after being challenged by a mechanical simulator
Authors: Matilde Isabela Naiara Evangelista , Palazzo Roberta Fittipaldi , CSV Barbas
Published: March 2022

Background: In assisted mechanical ventilation, the work of breathing (WOB) should be shared by patient and ventilator. In PAV+, there is an association between respiratory muscle pressure and the pressure generated by the ventilator. There are still knowledge deficits about the influence of different types of inspiratory efforts on mechanical ventilator outputs during PAV+ assistance.Methods: A mechanical simulator (ASL-5000 Ingmar Medical®) set with Compliance of 100 mL/cmH20 and resistance of 10 cmH20-L-s) was coupled to the Medtronic 980 (Purittan-Benett ®) mechanical ventilator in the Laboratory of Mechanical Ventilation of INCOR-Faculdade de Medicina Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil. A sequential script of three different inspiratory efforts (-3, -7 and -11 cmH2O) and three different respective inspiratory delays (5%, 15% and 20%), pre-programmed in the ASL5000 simulator software started to run and triggered the ventilator 15 times for each of the 9 sequences, in 19 levels of PAV+ assistance (from 5% to 95%) in a total of 2.565 combinations. The measured outputs from the ventilator were: Expired Tidal Volume (ETV: mL); Inspiratory time (IT: s); Peak inspiratory flow (PIF: cmH20); Peak inspiratory pressure (PP: cmH20); and Work of breathing (WOB) that were recorded in the ASL-5000_ software and analyzed by R software for Windows, version 4.0.5.Results: A exponential significant increase in ETV (from 88.46 mL to 1095.34 mL), IT (from 0.83 to1.64 s), PIF (from 10.88 to 125.53 L/min) and PP (from 7.53 to 33.23 cmH20) were observed with the increase of both inspiratory efforts and PAV+ assistance. This increment was amplified by the addition of 5%, 10% and 15% of inspiratory delays. WOBpt was compensated by PAV+ % of assistance increment as the inspiratory effort increase. Conclusion: PAV+ responded promptly to increments of inspiratory effort and progressive increase of inspiratory assistance. Delaying the inspiratory muscle effort significantly booster PAV+ ` outputs proportionally to inspiratory efforts levels and PAV+ % of assistance.
Impact of Pharmacists’ Integrated Care (PIC) on Diastolic Performance Index (DPI) in Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Dominic Elizabath Mariya , Mehta Hiral R , A Iruthaya Shiny , J Jane Miracline , S Balaji , S Manoharan , J SAM JOHNSON UDAYA CHANDER
Published: March 2022

Diastolic dysfunction represents a combination of impaired left ventricular (LV) relaxation, restoration forces, myocyte lengthening load and atrial function culminating in increased LV filling pressures. Current Doppler ECHO cardiographic guidelines recommend using early to late diastolic transmitral flow velocity (E/A). Although has important diagnostic and prognostic implications, they should be interpreted in the context of patients age and the rest of the echo-cardiogram to describe diastolic function and guide patient management. To investigate whether ratio of mitral peak velocity of early filling (E) to mitral peak velocity of late filling (A) can be used as a tool to check the drug’s effectiveness and outcome of any intervention. To prepare a counseling plan to educate patients with reserved ejection fraction. To measure pharmacists’ intervention using E/A ratio. This is a retrospective and prospective, open-label, parallel-arm, randomized controlled study carried out in the Cardiology Department of a 1000 bedded multispecialty tertiary care private teaching hospital in Coimbatore on 80 patients for a period of six months. After the baseline measurements were carried out, the patients were randomized into either Usual Care Group or Interventional Group. The Usual Care Group is subjected to usual care by physician. The Interventional Group were counseled by the pharmacist in addition to the usual care provided by the physician. Statistical analysis was carried out using Student’s T test and One way ANOVA.A total of 80 patients were evaluated for change in the E/A ratios during their subsequent follow-up in a period of 3 months. The Usual Care Group totaled for about of 55% male and 45% female while the Interventional Group contained 65% male and 35% female. The patients were graded according to their respective E/A ratios at the baseline and 45% of the patients had normal E/A values, 47.5% of them with impaired filling and 7.5% had pseudonormal values in the Interventional Group whereas in the Usual Care Group 60% normal, 30% impaired and 10% pseudonormal. The patients were again graded according to the respective E/A ratios at the subsequent follow up after a period of 2 months and the values were found to be 77.5% in the Interventional Group, 17.5% impaired and 5% pseudonormal in the Usual Care Group whereas 80% normal and 20% impaired in Usual Care Group. The study was not able to demonstrate a significant difference between the grading of the ratios in the first and second reviews among both the groups. But the study demonstrated a significant difference in the E/A ratios of the two reviews and was better observed in patients of the Interventional Group when compared to those of the Usual Care Group.
Physics-Informed Data-driven Model for Predicting Streamflows: A Case Study of the Voshmgir Basin, Iran
Authors: Parisouj Peiman , Mokari Esmaiil , Mohebzadeh Hamid , Goharnejad Hamid , Jun Changhyun
Published: March 2022

Accurate rainfall-runoff modeling is crucial for water resource management. However, the available models require more field-measured data to produce accurate results, which has been a long-term issue in hydrological modeling. Machine learning (ML) models have shown superiority in the hydrological field over statistical models. The primary aim of the present study was to advance a new coupled model combining model-driven models and ML models for accurate rainfall-runoff simulation in the Voshmgir basin in northern Iran. Rainfall-runoff data from 2002 to 2007 were collected from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite and the Iran Water Resources Management Company. The findings revealed that the model-driven model could not fully describe river runoff patterns during the investigated time period. The extreme learning machine and support vector regression models showed similar performances for 1-day-ahead rainfall–runoff forecasting, while the long short-term memory (LSTM) model outperformed these two models. Our results demonstrated that the coupled physically based model and LSTM model outperformed other models, particularly for 1-day-ahead forecasting. The present results open a new avenue for the adoption of deep learning models in hydrological studies.