bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Being Silenced, Loneliness and Being Heard: understanding pathways to Intimate Partner Violence & Abuse in young adults. A mixed-methods study
Authors: Barnes Maria , Szilassy Eszter , Herbert Annie , Heron Jon , Feder Gene , Fraser Abigail , Howe Laura D , Barter Christine
Published: April 2022

BackgroundInternational research shows the significance and impact of intimate partner violence and abuse (IPVA) as a public health issue for young adults. There is a lack of qualitative research exploring pathways to IPVA.MethodsThe current mixed-methods study used qualitative interviews and analysis of longitudinal cohort data, to explore experiences of pathways to IPVA. Semi-structured Interviews alongside Life History Calendars were undertaken to explore 17 young women’s (19-25 years) experiences and perceptions of pathways to IPVA in their relationships. Thematic analysis was undertaken. Based on themes identified in the qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis was conducted in data from 2127 female and 1145 male participants of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) birth cohort study. We fitted regression models to assess the association of child maltreatment, parental domestic violence, and peer-to-peer victimisation, by age 12, with loneliness during adolescence (ages 13-14), and the association of loneliness during adolescence with IPVA (age 18-21). Mediation analysis estimated the direct effects of maltreatment on IPVA, and indirect effects through loneliness.FindingsAll women interviewed experienced at least one type of maltreatment, parental domestic violence, or bullying during childhood. Nearly all experienced IPVA and most had been multi-victimised. Findings indicated a circular pathway: early trauma led to isolation and loneliness, negative labelling and being silenced through negative responses to help seeking, leading to increased experiences of loneliness and intensifying vulnerability to further violence and abuse in young adulthood. The pathway was compounded by intersectionality. Potential ways to break this cycle of loneliness included being heard and supported, especially by teachers.Quantitative analysis confirmed an association between child maltreatment and loneliness in adolescence, and an association between loneliness in adolescence and experience of IPVA in young adult relationships. ConclusionIt is likely that negative labelling and loneliness mediate pathways to IPVA, especially among more disadvantaged young women. The impact of early maltreatment on young people’s wellbeing and own relationships is compounded by intersectionality. Participants’ resilience was enabled by support in the community.
Phenomenology and Content of the Inhaled N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (N, N-DMT) Experience
Authors: Lawrence David Wyndham , Carhart-Harris Robin , Griffiths Roland , Timmermann Christopher
Published: April 2022

Background: Understanding the phenomenology and content of the inhaled N, N, dimethyltryptamine (N, N-DMT) experience is critical to facilitate and support ongoing research and therapeutic models targeting mental health conditions and central nervous system pathology. Methods: Qualitative analysis of all N, N-DMT experiences posted to the r/DMT Reddit community over a 10-year period from 2009-2018. Results: A total of 3778 experiences from 3305 posts were included in this study. A median dose of N, N-DMT of 40.0 mg [interquartile range (IQR), 27.5 to 50.0] and a median experience duration of 10 minutes (IQR, 5.0 to 15.0) were identified. The most common somatic effects were somaesthesias (n=1415, 37.5%) and an auditory ringing (n=583, 15.4%). Visualizations predominantly consisted of fractals, shapes, patterns (n=1231, 32.5%) and vivid colours (n=953, 25.2%). Entity encounters occurred in 45.5% (n=1719) of the experiences and involved predominantly a feminine phenotype (n=416, 24.2%); aliens (n=281, 16.3%); deities (n=238, 13.8%); creature-based entities (n=158, 9.2%, including reptilian and insectoid beings); mythological beings (n=138, 8.0%, including machine elves); and jesters (n=112, 6.5%). Entity interactions were predominantly positive (n=600, 34.9% of encounters) involving benevolent, comforting, protecting, or outwardly caring interactions. A companion-type, pedagogical, or guide-type interaction was identified 32.4% of encounters (n=557). Common typology, architectural, and structural features of the “DMT world” were descriptions of alternate or higher dimensions (n=952, 25.2%); room(s) [n=582, 15.4%, including the “waiting room” (n=105, 2.8%)], and a tunnel (n=390, 10.3%). Features of mystical and ego-dissolution experiences were common and additional rewarding aspects were reported, including familiarity and acceptance/removal of the fear of death. Challenging and difficult responses were less frequent but also documented. Statements of profundity were identified in 232 experiences (6.1%), including pronouncing the experience or an aspect of the experience as the most “beautiful” or feeling the most “beautiful” of their life (n=47, 1.2%).Conclusion: This study identified common phenomenological themes and content of naturalistic inhaled N, N-DMT experiences. Major thematic domains included (1) physical and somatic experiences; (2) content of visualizations and imagery; (3) entity encounters including entity phenotype, descriptors, attributes, disposition, and characteristics of the interaction; (4) typology, architectural features, structural characteristics, and scenery of the “DMT world”; (5) emotional responses (including positive, rewarding, difficult, and challenging); and (6) statements of profundity.
COVID-19 epidemic forecast in USA East coast by novel reliability approach
Authors: Gaidai Oleg , Xing Yihan , Xu Xiaosen
Published: April 2022

Novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease with high transmissibility to spread worldwide with considerable morbidity and mortality and presents an enormous burden on worldwide public health. Due to the non-stationarity and complicated nature of epidemic waves, it is challenging to model such a phenomenon. Few mathematical models can be used because epidemic data are generally not normally distributed. This paper describes a novel bio-system reliability approach, particularly suitable for multi-regional environmental and health systems, observed over a sufficient period of time, resulting in a reliable long-term forecast of the highly pathogenic virus outbreak probability. Traditional statistical methods dealing with temporal observations of multi-regional processes do not have the advantage of dealing efficiently with extensive regional dimensionality and cross-correlation between different regional observations. For this study, COVID-19 daily numbers of recorded patients in most affected US states were chosen. This work aims to benchmark state of the art method, which makes it possible to extract the necessary information from dynamically observed patient numbers, while taking into account relevant territorial mapping. The method proposed in this paper opens up the possibility of accurately predicting epidemic outbreak probability for multi-regional biological systems.
In Situ Observation of the Atomic-scale High-temperature Phase Transition Enhancement Mechanism at the ODS-W Interface
Authors: Wei Guoqing , Laima Luo , Zhang Qi , Liu Xuepeng , Zhang Yifan , Li Haixin , Li Zhipeng , Wu Yu-Cheng
Published: April 2022

Rare earth oxide doping Metal is a common strengthening method for metal matrices. Recent studies show that the ODS-W alloys exhibit a more superior mechanical properties at higher temperatures, but the underlying strengthening mechanism is obscure due to the experimental technical limitations. This study performed in situ tensile deformations at temperatures up to 1273 K inside a transmission electron microscope with atomic-scale resolution. The results uncovered that the crack source caused by tension is at the W grain boundary, rather than the expected weak interface between W and oxide. We showed that the W near the ODS-W interface occurs BCC–FCC phase transition and breaks away from the W matrix. By combining molecular dynamics simulation with first-principle theory calculations, we confirmed that the WFCC matrix after the BCC–FCC phase transition possesses excellent adhesion work, which remarkably enhances the W and the oxide bonding force. Based on these observations, we proposed a high-temperature phase transformation strengthening method, which provides essential guidance for oxide-strengthen alloys at high temperatures and adds new ideas to the second-phase strengthening mechanism.
Toxicity and inhibition mechanism of gallic acid on physiology and fermentation performance of Escherichia coli
Authors: liu lina , Ma Xiaolong , Bilal Muhammad , Wei Linlin , Tang Shijie , Luo Hongzhen , Zhao Yuping , Wang Zhaoyu , Duan Xuguo
Published: April 2022

Gallic acid is a natural phenolic acid that has a stress inhibition effect on Escherichia coli. This study elucidates the physiological mechanism of E. coli 3110 response to gallic acid by integrating fermentation characteristics and transcriptional analysis. Compared with the control (without stress), the cell growth was severely inhibited, and irregular cell morphology appeared in the case of high levels of gallic acid stress. With the increase of gallic acid content in the fermentation medium, the glucose consumption of E. coli decreased successively. Moreover, cofactor levels (ATP, NAD+ and NADH) of E. coli 3110 were also lowered under gallic acid after 20 h stress, indicating a stronger inhibitory effect of gallic acid on E. coli. The transcriptional analysis revealed that gallic acid altered the gene expression profiles related to five notable differentially regulated pathways. The genes related to the two-component system were up-regulated, while the genes associated with ABC-transporter, energy metabolism, carbon metabolism, and fatty acid biosynthesis were down-regulated. This is the first report on the systematic evaluation of the toxicity of gallic acid on E. coli. This study has a guiding significance for the efficient production of phenolic compounds by E. coli and provides new ideas for the study of microbial tolerance to environmental stress and the discovery of related tolerance targets.
A VIKOR-based group decision-making approach to software reliability evaluation
Authors: Yue Chuan
Published: April 2022

Software reliability evaluation is important to attribute of software quality. A new group decision-making (GDM) is provided to evaluate software reliability, where the model is based on an extended VIsekriterijumska optimizacija i KOmpromisno Resenje (VIKOR) technique. The individual utility and individual regret in general VIKOR technique are extended to group utility and group regret. A specific regret matrix is provided in new VIKOR-based GDM method. A new ranking method is provided in a static environment. Another new ranking method is provided in a dynamic environment. To implement a user-based evaluation for software reliability, the picture fuzzy set is used for handling the questionnaire information. It is noted that the existing projection measure is not always reasonable in picture fuzzy setting. To solve this problem, a new normalization projection measure is provided in picture fuzzy setting. And a new GDM method is established for software reliability evaluation. The feasibility and practicability developed method in this work are illustrated by an experimental analysis.
Clinical significance and molecular characteristics of circulating plasma cells in multiple myeloma
Authors: Xia Yuan , Xu Min , Zhang Jue , Zhang Run , Jin Yuanyuan , Wu Yujie , Shi Qinglin , Li Jianyong , Chen Lijuan
Published: April 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM) is one of the most common hematological malignancies and remains incurable to date. Clonal plasma cells can be detected in the peripheral blood of most MM patients, and previous studies have shown an association between the quantification of circulating plasma cells (CPC) and prognosis. However, the significance of CPC for response assessment and prognosis prediction as well as the mechanism underlying CPC formation in Chinese population has not been fully elucidated. In this investigation, we used multi-parameter flow cytometry (MFC) for CPC quantification and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology for mutational landscape mapping to identify the correlation of CPC level with clinical characteristics and the mutations. As a result, we demonstrated that CPC quantification could effectively mirror the tumor load, and CPC≥0.105% at diagnosis or detectable CPC after therapy indicates poor treatment response and adverse outcome, and it is verified that the introduction of CPC level into the R-ISS system enables a more accurate risk stratification. We also noticed an elevated percentage of light-chain MM in patients with high CPC, this is the first time, to the best of our knowledge, to report the subtype pattern regarding CPC. Mutational landscape revealed that TP53 mutations and pathways involving chromatin or chromosome regulation and adhesion may be potential mechanisms accounting for CPC formation. Accordingly, the detection of CPC by MFC may provide a less-invasive, convenient and, more importantly, reliable approach for risk stratification and disease monitoring in Chinese population.
Proof-of-concept Study to Estimate Individual Post-Therapy Dosimetry in Men with Advanced Prostate Cancer Treated with 177Lu-PSMA I&T Therapy
Authors: Xue Song , Gafita Andrei , Dong Chao , Zhao Yu , Tetteh Giles , Menze Bjoern H , Ziegler Sibylle , Weber Wolfgang , Afshar-Oromieh Ali , Rominger Axel , Eiber Matthias , Shi Kuangyu
Published: April 2022

It is still debating if individualized dose should be applied for the emerging PSMA-targeted radionuclide therapy (RLT). A critical consideration in this debate is the necessity and feasibility of individual estimation of post-therapy dosimetry before the treatment. In this study, we aimed to prove the concept of individual dosimetry prediction based on pre-therapy imaging and laboratory measurements. Methods: 23 patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) treated with 177Lu-PSMA-I&T RLT were included retrospectively. Included patients had available pre-therapeutic 68Ga-PSMA-HEBD-CC PET/CT and at least 3 planar and 1 SPECT/CT dosimetry imaging. Overall, 43 cycles of 177Lu-PSMA I&T RLT were applied. Organ-based standard uptake value (SUV) uptake was obtained from pretherapy PET/CT scans. Patient individual dosimetry was calculated for kidney, liver, spleen, and salivary glands using Hermes Hybrid Dosimetry 4.0 from the post-treatment 177Lu-PSMA I&T imaging studies. Machine learning methods were explored for individual dose prediction from PET images. The accuracy of these dose predictions was compared with the accuracy of population-based dosimetry estimates. Mean absolute percentage error was used to assess the prediction error of estimated dosimetry. Results: An optimal machine learning method achieved a dosimetry prediction error of 15.8 ± 13.2% for kidney, 29.6%±13.7% for liver, 23.8%±13.1% for salivary glands and 32.1 ± 31.4% for spleen. In contrast, the prediction based on literature population mean has significantly larger error (p < 0.01), 25.5 ± 17.3% for kidney, 139.1%±111.5% for liver, 67.0 ± 58.3% for salivary glands, and 54.1 ± 215.3% for spleen. Conclusion: The preliminary results confirmed the feasibility of individual estimation of post-therapy dosimetry before the RLT and its added value to empirical population-based estimation. The exploration of individual dose prediction may support the identification of the role of treatment planning for RLT.
The antidepressant effects of Atorvastatin are mediated by reduction of nitric oxide pathway in ovariectomized mice
Authors: Jahanabadi Samane Jahanabadi , Safshekan Pegah Safshekan , Moradi Ali Moradi
Published: April 2022

Atorvastatin has been associated with reduced depressive-like behavior and nitric oxide (NO) has been suggested to play a major role in the pathogenesis of some neurodegenerative diseases, including depression. Hormonal fluctuations throughout ovariectomy, postpartum and menopause contribute to the higher incidence of depression in women. We therefore investigated the antidepressant-like effects of atorvastatin and the possible role of nitric oxide pathways in ovariectomized (OVX) mice.To this end, female mice were undergone bilateral ovariectomy and various doses of atorvastatin were injected alone and combined with non-specific NO synthase inhibitor (L-NAME) or an NO precursor (L-arginine). Behavioral changes were recorded in the open-field test (OFT), forced swim test (FST) and Tail Suspension Test (TST). Additionally, hippocampal levels of nitrite, a major metabolite of NO, were determined. Seven days following the procedure, OVX mice showed significantly prolonged immobility time in comparison with the sham group. Atorvastatin (0.1 and 1 mg/kg) exerted antidepressant-like effects in OVX mice and combination of sub-effective dose of atorvastatin (0.01 mg/kg) with a sub-effective dose of L-NAME (10mg/kg) resulted in a robust antidepressant-like effect in OVX mice. NO precursor L-arginine (750 mg/kg) suppressed the antidepressant-like effect of a potent dose of atorvastatin (0.1 mg/kg) in OVX mice. None of the treatments altered the locomotor activity of mice in OFT. Moreover, the increased hippocampal nitrite concentrations caused by ovariectomy were also prevented by atorvastatin administration.The study demonstrated that atorvastatin exerts antidepressant-like effects of in OVX mice through a mechanism probably involving suppression of nitric oxide pathway.
TTYH3, a potential prognosis biomarker associated with immune infiltration and immunotherapy response in lung cancer
Authors: Wei Zimeng , Zeng Xingruo , Lei Yufei , He Hengjing , Jamal Muhammad , Zhang Chengjie , Tan Haiyan , Xie Songping , Zhang Qiuping
Published: April 2022

Purpose
The recognition of new diagnostic and prognostic biological markers for lung cancer is an essential and eager study. It’s shown that ion channels play important roles in regulating various cellular processes and have been suggested to be associated with patient survival. However, TTYH3, as a novel maxi-Cl− channel, its role in lung cancer remains elusive.
Methods
The expression, diagnosis and prognostic efficacy of TTYH3 were analyzed by public databases and clinical samples. Cell functional experiments used to explore the effects of TTYH3 on cell ability. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed pathway that TTYH3 and its co-expressed genes were enriched in. TIMER and R language analyses were used to detect the correlation between TTYH3 and immune cell infiltration and the immunotherapy response.
Results
TTYH3 was found up-regulated in lung cancer tissues compared to normal tissues and possessed a prominent diagnostic and prognostic value. Knockdown TTYH3 significantly inhibited the proliferation of lung cancer cells. Enrichment analyses results showed that TTYH3 and its co-expressed genes were mainly involved in immune related signaling pathways. Further investigation clarified that TTYH3 had a positive correlation with the infiltration of macrophage, T cell regulatory, CD4+ T cell and high TTYH3 expression indicated worse immunotherapy response and shorter survival after immune checkpoint blockade treatment.
Conclusion
This study not only deciphers the diagnostic and prognostic value of TTYH3 but also provides TTYH3-based estimation of immunotherapy response for lung cancer patients, which might provide new strategies like anti-TTYH3 combined with immune therapy for the treatment of lung cancer.
Adapalene synergistically with doxorubicin promotes apoptosis of TNBC Cells by hyperactivation of the ERK1/2 pathway through ROS induction
Authors: Mehraj Umar , Mir Irfan Ahmad , Hassan Mahboob ul , Mir Nissar Ahmad , Mir Manzoor Ahmad
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Doxorubicin (DOX) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent to treat several malignancies, including aggressive tumors like triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacking hormonal receptors and HER2 amplification. It has a limited therapeutic index owing to its extreme toxicity and the emergence of drug resistance. As a result, there is a pressing need to find innovative drugs that enhance the effectiveness of doxorubicin while minimizing its toxicity. Recently, the third-generation retinoid adapalene (ADA) was reported as an effective anticancer agent in several malignancies. This study aimed to determine the anticancer activity of ADA in TNBC cells and its effectiveness in combination with DOX and the mechanistic pathways in inhibiting tumorigenicity.Methods: Cell viability was evaluated using the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-Yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) and pharmacodynamic interactions (synergism, antagonism, or additivity) by Chou-Talalay's method. Flow cytometry and fluorimetry were used to determine apoptosis, cell cycle and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Western blotting was utilized to analyze the molecular mechanism and apoptotic protein levels.Results: We found that ADA in synergistic manner with doxorubicin inhibits growth, colony formation, and migration of TNBC cells. Moreover, ADA as single agent or in combination with DOX resulted in ROS accumulation triggering hyperphosphorylation of Erk1/2 and activating caspase 3 and apoptosis. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) pre-treatment inhibited ROS accumulation triggered by DOX-ADA and substantially reduced Erk1/2 phosphorylation.Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that ADA is a potent antitumor agent that may be used as a single agent or combined with present therapeutic regimens for TNBC treatment.
Gross Tumor Volume Delineation in Primary Prostate Cancer on 18 F-PSMA-1007 PET/MRI and 68 Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI
Authors: Zhang Yan-Nan , Lu Zhen-Guo , Wang Shuai-Dong , Lu Xin , Zhu Lei-Lei , Yang Xu , Fu Li-Ping , Zhao Jun , Wang Hai-Feng , Xiang Zuo-Lin
Published: April 2022

Purpose: We aimed to probe the clinical value of 18F-PSMA-1007 and 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI in the GTV delineation of radiotherapy for prostate cancer (PCa). Methods: 69 patients were retrospectively enrolled (57 in 18F subgroup and 12 in 68Ga subgroup). First, three physicians delineated the GTVs by visual method and threshold method with thresholds of 30%, 40%, 50%, and 60% SUVmax. The volume correlation and differences in GTVs were assessed. Second, the DSC was applied to estimate the spatial overlap between GTVs. Then we also evaluated the association between DSCs and clinical parameters (including age, the reference GTV-MRI, PSA, Gleason score, risk classification, and SUVmax). Last, the interobserver variability was evaluated. GTV-MRI was set as a reference. Results: In 18F subgroup: (1) GTV-PET/MRI and GTV-PET60% had significant correlation and difference with the reference GTV-MRI (p<0.05). (2) DSC between GTV-MRI and GTV-PET/MRI was>0.7. (3) The GTV-MRI (R2=0.462, p<0.05) was the influencing factor of the DSC, and positively affected the DSC. In 68Ga subgroup: (1) GTV-PET/MRI, GTV-PET30% had significant correlation and difference with the reference GTV-MRI (p<0.05). (2) DSC between GTV-MRI and GTV-PET/MRI were>0.7. (3) There was a significant correlation between GTV-MRI (r=0.580, p<0.05) and the DSC. There were no significant differences in tumor volume delineated by different observers in both subgroups. Conclusion: It is feasible to visually delineate GTV on PSMA PET/MRI in PCa radiotherapy, we emphasize the GTV delineation on the PET/MRI fusion image. In addition, the overlap degree was the highest between GTV-MRI and GTV-PET/MRI, and it increased with increasing volume.
WITHDRAWN: Assessment of Genetic Diversity and Population Genetic Structure of Santalum album L. in India by Genic and Genomic SSR markers
Authors: Fatima Tanzeem , Srivast Ashutosh , Hanur Vageeshbabu S. , Srinivasa M.
Published: April 2022

Sandalwood (Santalum album L.) is a highly valued aromatic tropical tree. It is known for its high quality heartwood and oil. In this study, 39 genic and genomic SSR markers were used to analyze the genetic diversity and population structure of 177 S. album accessions from 14 populations of three states in India. High genetic diversity was observed in terms of number of alleles 127, expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 0.63-0.87 and the average PIC was 0.85. The selected population had relatively moderate genetic diversity with Shannon’s information index (I) >1.0 followed by 0.02 (mean coefficient of genetic differentiation) FST. AMOVA revealed that 92% of the variation observed within accessions. Based on cluster and Structure result, individuals were not clustered as per their geographical origin. Furthermore the clusters were clearly distinguished by principal component analysis and the result revealed that PC1 reflected the moderate contribution in genetic variation (6%) followed by PC2 (5.5%). From this study, moderate genetic diversity and genetic differentiation was observed in S. album populations. The genetic results are of great significance for scientifically selection of superior genotypes and germplasm conservation to promote the tree improvement of S. album populations.
The risk factors and outcomes for radiological abnormalities in early convalescence of COVID-19 patients caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant in Tianjin, China: a retrospective, multicenter follow-up study
Authors: Wang Hong , Yang Qingyuan , Li Fangfei , Wang Huiying , Yu Jing , Ge Xihong , Gao Guangfeng , Xia Shuang , Xing Zhiheng , Shen Wen
Published: April 2022

Background: The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant has been triggering the new wave of COVID-19 globally. However, the risk factors and outcomes for radiological abnormalities in the early convalescent stage (1 month after onset) of Omicron infected patients are still unknown.Methods: Patients were retrospectively enrolled if they were admitted to the hospital due to COVID-19 and underwent chest CT scans during hospitalization between 8 January and 24 February 2022. The chest CTs and clinical data obtained at admission and 1 month after onset were longitudinally analyzed. Spearman rank correlation analysis was used to investigate the correlation between laboratory markers and CT scores. Uni-/multi-variable logistic regression tests were performed to explore independent risk factors for radiological abnormalities at admission and residual pulmonary abnormalities after 1 month. Results: We assessed 316 COVID-19 patients, including 47% with radiological abnormalities at admission and 23% with residual pulmonary abnormalities at 1-month follow-up. In a multivariate regression analysis, age ≥ 50 years, body mass index ≥ 23.87, days after vaccination ≥ 81 days, lymphocyte count ≤ 1.21×10-9/L, Interleukin-6 ≥ 10.05 pg/mL and IgG ≤ 14.140 S/CO were independent risk factors for CT abnormalities at admission (odds ratio = 2.870, 4.171, 2.360, 2.826, 3.886 and 2.828, respectively; P < 0.05 for each comparison). The presence of interlobular septal thickening and IL-6 ≥ 5.85 pg/mL were the independent risk factors for residual pulmonary abnormalities at 1-month follow-up (odds ratio = 3.619 and 3.197, respectively; P < 0.05 for each comparison). There were no significant changes in the number of involved lung lobes (P = 0.308) and total CT score (P = 0.068) during the early convalescent stage. And the level of IL-6 showed positive correlation with CT score at admission (spearman r = 0.202, P = 0.030).Conclusions: The higher IL-6 level was a common independent risk factor for CT abnormalities at admission and residual pulmonary abnormalities at 1-month follow-up. And there were no obvious radiographic changes during the early convalescent stage in patients with residual pulmonary abnormalities.
Application of Columba livia Feather as a Bioindicator of Industrial Pollution
Authors: Asgari Fariba , Sajjadi Nooshin , Zaeimdar Mojgan , Sadeghi Mostafa , Tehrani Mahnaz Mirza Ebrahim
Published: April 2022

In developing countries, due to the development of industrial technologies and heavy metals pollution in the environment, the use of bioindicators such as bird feathers could be a good way to transmit pollutants to the environment. In this study, the accumulation of heavy metals such as lead, zinc and cadmium in Columba livia feathers in males and females and live and dead species in Industrial town of Zinc-Zanjan and comparison with control species outside industrial town were studied. The feathers of 164 pigeons were collected and dissolved by chemical digestion method. In this study, heavy metals were measured by the avanta GBC atomic absorption device. The mean concentrations of lead, zinc and cadmium were determined greater in dead female pigeons, dead male pigeons, live female pigeons, and live male pigeons respectively. This was also the case with the control species. Statistical analysis of data was performed with SAS software (Statistical Analysis System). (P ≤ 0.05, 95% confidence level) and (P ≤ 0.01, 99% confidence level) were considered as significant differences. The results of statistical tests in the samples inside Industrial town of Zinc-Zanjan showed that there is a significant statistical relationship between gender (male-female) and live and dead bird and elements of lead, zinc and cadmium, while for the control species were different. Significant levels of heavy metals in bird feathers indicate their usefulness as a non-invasive tool to show the concentration of metals in pigeons to control the level of pollution in the environment. The present study showed that Columba livia had suitable biological characteristics for use as a bioindicator of industrial pollution.
Core community persistence despite dynamic spatiotemporal responses in the associated bacterial communities of farmed Pacific oysters
Authors: King Nathan , Smale Dan , Thorpe Jamie , McKeown Niall , Andrews Adam , Browne Ronan , Malham Shelagh
Published: April 2022

A breakdown in host-bacteria relationships have been associated with the progression of a number of marine diseases and subsequent mortality events. For the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, Summer Mortality Syndrome (SMS) is one of the biggest constraints to growth of the sector and is set to expand into temperate systems as ocean temperatures rise. Currently, a lack of understanding of natural spatiotemporal dynamics of the host-bacteria relationship limits our ability to develop microbial-based monitoring approaches. Here, we characterised the associated bacterial community of C. gigas, at two Irish oyster farms, unaffected by SMS, over the course of a year. We found C. gigas harboured spatiotemporally variable bacterial community that were distinct from bacterioplankton in surrounding seawater. Whilst the majority of bacteria-oyster associations were transient and highly variable, we observed clear patterns of stability in the form of a small core consisting of six persistent Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs). This core made up a disproportionately large contribution to sample abundance (34 ± 0.14 %), despite representing only 0.034% of diversity across the study, and have been associated with healthy oysters in other systems. Overall, our study demonstrates the consistent features of oyster bacterial communities across spatial and temporal scales and provides an ecologically meaningful baseline to track environmental change.
The connection between Triglyceride to non- density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and incident diabetes mellitus: a secondary retrospective analysis based on a Chinese cohort study
Authors: Fang Xiaokang , Hu Haofei , Huang Xiaohong , Hao Mingyu , Deng Jiangxing , Wu Yan , Cai Jinlin , Yan Dewen
Published: April 2022

objective
Existing studies have confirmed that both high triglyceride(TG) and high non-density lipoprotein cholesterol(Non-HDL-c) are often closely linked with diabetes or insulin resistance. However, there are no large prospective cohort studies that have discussed the connection between the TG/non-HDL-c ratio and incident type 2 diabetes. Therefore, using data from a large cohort representative of the Chinese population, we conducted a retrospective study to explore the relationship between TG/ non-HDL-c ratio and the incidence of type 2 diabetes.
Method
We did a retrospective study. Participants were comprised of 114,854 Chinese adults, aged over 20 years, distributed in 32 locations and 11 cities in southern China (Shenzhen, Beijing, Wuhan, Shanghai, Nanjing, Suzhou, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Nantong, Hefei, Changzhou); Participants were free of diabetes at baseline. The data included triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), age, gender, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), BUN, serum creatinine (Scr), AST, ALT, smoking and family history of diabetes and drinking status. Non-HDL-c is equal to total cholesterol minus HDL-c. And Cox proportional risk model was used to explore the relationship between TG/ Non-HDL-c and diabetes risk. Generalized additive model (GAM) and smooth curve fitting were used to assess the non-linear relationship between diabetes risk and TG/ non-HDL-c. In addition, subgroup analysis was performed for some variables, such as age, gender, BMI, FPG, ALT, SBP, DBP, smoking status, drinking status, family history. For the record, the data came from the DATADRYAD website.
Result
Finally, gender, age, systolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, FPG, BMI, smoking, family history of diabetes, drinking status, LDL, BUN, ALT, AST and Scr were adjusted, the results showed that TG/non-HDL was positively correlated with the occurrence of diabetes (HR = 1.191 (1.148, 1.235) p < 0.00001). And two-piecewise linear regression model proved a non-linear connection between TG/non-HDL -C and the risk of diabetes, and there was an obvious turning point of 0.544. When the TG/non-HDL-c < 0.544, HR = 5.888 (3.959, 8.757) p < 0.0001, when the TG/non-HDL-c > 0.544, HR = 1.509 (1.056, 2.156) p < 0.0238. The sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results. Subgroup analysis showed a stronger association among participants who were female, SBP < 140mmhg, FPG < 6.1 mmol/L, BMI (≥ 18.5, < 24kg/m 2), and never drinking status.
Conclusion
Increased TG/non-HDL-c was independently and nonlinearly associated with the occurrence of diabetes, and the correlation was stronger when the TG/non-HDL-C < 0.544.
Ventral Striatum Modifies the Activity of Basal Ganglia Circuit: A Computational Model
Authors: Elibol Rahmi , Şengör Neslihan Serap
Published: April 2022

The activity of the brain is multi-scale in time and space, and there are enormous data collected related to activities at all levels. To reveal the knowledge hidden in these data, computational models are convenient tools. So, to have a better understanding of the evidences assembled through the experimental work carried out at different levels and scales on striatum, we focused on obtaining a computational model encompassing the role of ventral and dorsal striatum in basal ganglia circuit. Beginning from the single neuron behaviors and synaptic currents, concluding with the interactions between the nuclei of the basal ganglia circuit, at each level we showed that our model is in harmony with the data. We demonstrated the cascading neuronal activity within the basal ganglia circuit under different stimuli conditions. The frequency analysis based on the results of the computational model revealed the beta frequency presence in the deficiency of dopamine. Once, we showed the validity of the proposed computational model, we investigated the effect of ventral striatum on the activity of dorsal striatum further, revealing the modulatory role of ventral striatum. With the proposed model, it is possible to follow the neuronal information transfer between the prefrontal cortex and thalamus, through striatum.
Synthesis and characterisation of Gd(BO2)3:Tb loaded composite scintillator
Authors: Thomas Jose Mundiyanikal , Rajakrishna Kalvala , Dhanasekaran A , Yuvaraj N , Ajoy K C
Published: April 2022

Plastic scintillators (PS) loaded with neutron sensitive powders to detect special nuclear material without degrading the light yield is well sought. This work reports the synthesis of neutron absorbing gadolinium and boron containing microcrystalline Gd(BO2)3:Tb phosphor and fabrication of composite scintillators by loading the powder in PS. Gd(BO2)3:Tb phosphor (~ 1 µm size) powder prepared through solid-state sintering technique is loaded in polystyrene-based PS which showed increased detection efficiency for neutrons and low energy gammas. A thin film coating method which allows the uniform dispersion of the filled particles in the PS is followed for the preparation of 250 µm thick sheets. 2,5diphenyl oxazole (PPO) and 1,4-bis(5-phenyl-2-oxazolyl)benzene (POPOP) are added as primary and secondary wavelength shifters in the polystyrene dissolved p-xylene solution. The newly developed composite scintillator is tested using alpha, beta, gamma and neutron radiations for the scintillation efficiency. Three different weight percentage Gd(BO2)3:Tb loaded PS are studied for their response towards different radiations to optimize the filling. The newly developed thin PS sheet exhibits 2 times enhancement in the radioluminescence emission compared to unloaded PS. Pulse height spectra are acquired and analysed for different types of radiation. The neutron response is studied for moderated and unmoderated configurations of the Am-Be neutron source.
Hyperfibrinolysis and Fibrinolysis Shutdown in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Nakae Ryuta , Murai Yasuo , Wada Takeshi , Fujiki Yu , Kanaya Takahiro , Takayama Yasuhiro , Suzuki Go , Naoe Yasutaka , Yokota Hiroyuki , Yokobori Shoji
Published: April 2022

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been associated with coagulation/fibrinolysis disorders, but the pathogenesis of hyperfibrinolysis and subsequent fibrinolysis shutdown in the acute phase of TBI is not well understood. We sought to analyze the time course of coagulation, fibrinolysis, and subsequent fibrinolysis shutdown in the acute phase, and the relationship of each to long-term outcome.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 61 consecutive cases of isolated TBI transported to the hospital within 1 h after injury. Plasma levels of the coagulation marker thrombin-antithrombin III complex (TAT), the fibrinolysis marker D-dimer, and the fibrinolysis inhibition marker plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were measured on arrival and 3 h, 6 h, 12 h, 1 d, 3 d and 7 d after injury. The differences in plasma TAT, D-dimer, and PAI-1 levels between the good outcome group with an extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS-E) of 6–8 at 6 months post-injury and the poor outcome group with a GOS-E of 1–5 at 6 months post-injury were compared using a generalized linear mixed model. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors for coagulation and fibrinolysis at each time point.Results: Plasma TAT levels peaked at admission and decreased significantly until 1 d after injury. Plasma D-dimer levels increased significantly, peaking up to 3 h after injury, and significantly decreased up to 3 d after injury. Plasma PAI-1 levels increased significantly up to 3 h after injury, the upward trend continuing until 6 h after injury, followed by a decrease lasting until 3 d after injury. The plasma TAT, D-dimer, and PAI-1 levels were all higher in the acute phase of TBI in patients with a poor outcome than in patients with a good outcome at 6 months. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, elevated D-dimer levels from admission to 3 h after injury and elevated PAI-1 levels from 6 h to 1 d after injury were significant negative prognostic indicators.Conclusions: After TBI, hypercoagulation, fibrinolysis, and fibrinolysis shutdown were activated consecutively. Hyperfibrinolysis immediately after injury and subsequent fibrinolysis shutdown were associated with poor long-term outcome.
Clinical Analysis of Infectious Endophthalmitis from the Largest Medical Center in North China: A 30-Year Review
Authors: Yin Lan , Huang Yu-lei , Zhang Shi-feng , Kang Xin
Published: April 2022

Purpose: To analyse clinical features and prognosis of infectious endophthalmitis, and provide basis for the treatment. Methods: Retrospective clinical data analysis for 485 eyes (479 patients) in the past 30 years (1993-2022). Demographic features, clinic-microbiological profile, antimicrobial susceptibilities, and visual outcomes were analysed.Results: The mean age of patients was 41.6±22.6 years and 72.0% were males. The mean age of Endogenous endophthalmitis (EnE) patients was elder than that of Exogenous endophthalmitis (ExE) patients, but there was no difference in sex ratio. The percentage of ExE was 86.0% and that of EnE was14.0%. Gram positive cocci (GPC) (39.3%) was the commonest pathogen, followed by Gram negative bacilli (GNB) (32.0%), fungi (16.4%), Gram positive bacilli (GPB) (11.4%), and Gram negative cocci (GNC) (0.9%). Vancomycin owned 100% susceptibility to GPC and GPB. Ceftazidime and imipenem owned the same as the best susceptibility to GPB (both 91.5%). Top three pathogens in ExE were Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa respectively. Top three etiologies of ExE were ocular trauma, ophthalmologic surgery and infectious keratitis. Top three surgery related with ExE were: cataract extraction, intravitreal injection and vitrectomy. Top three pathogens in EnE were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus epidermidis respectively. Total best corrected visual acuity (hereinafter referred to as VA) of admission was 2.54 ± 0.62 and improved to 2.12 ±0.93 (P < 0.05). VA related with GPC or fungi increased after the treatment, and there was no significant improvement both in GNB and GPB. VA of ExE increased after the treatment, but did not change significantly in EnE. Final VA of ExE was superior to EnE.Conclusions: GPC was the commonest pathogen in endophthalmitis, and Staphylococcus epidermidis was the commonest pathogen in ExE. Combination of vancomycin and ceftazidime covered the broadest spectrum of bacteria in endophthalmitis. ExE, GPC and fungi infection were related with good prognosis (improved VA).
Subperiosteal Fluid Misdiagnosed on MRI as Abscess. Potential to Miss Non-Accidental Trauma
Authors: Zember Jonathan , Rohrer Rebecca J. , Hinds Tanya , Friend L. Kaleb , Shet Narendra , Rana Eglal Shalaby
Published: April 2022

Purpose
The literature is confusing when it comes to defining/differentiating periosteal reaction from periostitis, subperiosteal new bone formation (SPNBF), and calcifying subperiosteal hemorrhage. Furthermore, subperiosteal fluid, readily seen on MRI, can be pus from osteomyelitis as well as hemorrhage from trauma. However, MRI is often obtained to evaluate for osteomyelitis, thus potentially leading to a confirmation bias where subperiosteal fluid is attributed to infection. This is particularly concerning in cases of non-accidental trauma (NAT), where the history may be vague. In addition, trauma can produce elevated inflammatory markers, further clouding the picture. The purpose of this study is to report our experience with MRI and x-ray in patients with subperiosteal hemorrhage, all of whom were ultimately diagnosed with NAT.
Methods
Overtourism: The Impact of Tourism on Madeira’s Social and Economic Environment
Authors: Majdak Piotr , Mosz Jakub , Martins de Almeida António Manuel
Published: April 2022

The main goal of the analyses presented in the article is to identify the phenomena and consequences concomitant with the phenomenon of overtourism in the economic (with particular emphasis on energy) and social dimensions, regarding the Portuguese island of Madeira. The starting point for considerations includes a review of the issues that define the theoretical framework of “excessive tourism”, as well as a discussion of the most important determinants of the socio-economic development of Madeira. Then, the results of own research are presented, including the original analysis of existing data on electricity production, population growth and the number of overnight stays, as well as the results of a survey conducted in April 2021[1], among both permanent residents and tourists visiting the island. The obtained results indicate, among others, that for each increase in the number of overnight stays by 1%, the production of electricity increases by 0.597%; and for every 1% increase in the number of inhabitants, there is a 5.617% increase in electricity production. At the same time, the data on the number of inhabitants indicates a population growth rate close to zero, and thus a higher level of consumption will come from the tourist sector. Based on the results of the survey, key problem areas have been identified (including, for example, issues related to the sense of local identity, security or relations between tourists and residents). The volume of tourist traffic has also been assessed, and a number of reflections and recommendations have been formulated to limit the negative effects of “excessive tourism”.

 

[1] More information about research and obtained results are available in the following publications (Majdak et al. 2021a; Majdak et al. 2021b).
Isolated Pituitary Metastasis of Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report
and Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Demir Mustafa Kemal , Öven Bala Başak , Çelik Serkan , Moujawaz Riad , Somay Adnan , Kılıc Turker
Published: April 2022

Background:

Isolated pituitary gland metastasis is an extremely rare event in renal cell carcinoma.
We present a unique case of isolated pituitary metastasis of renal cell carcinoma and a systematic
review of literature on it.

Case report:

In this case, an abdominal ultrasound in an asymptomatic 51-year-old female patient
showed a mass in her left kidney. Radical nephrectomy was performed and the tumor was diagnosed as
a stage 1 clear cell carcinoma. Throughout the 3 months of the follow-up period, the patient started
complaining of visual disturbances and headaches. A pituitary mass was found on brain magnetic resonance
imaging and was suspected to be a macroadenoma. Surgical resection of the tumor was performed
and the final pathological diagnosis was made as a pituitary metastasis of the renal cell carcinoma.
After surgery, radiotherapy with sunitinib, a receptor tyrosine inhibitor, was performed.

Conclusion:

The clinical symptoms are usually related to the mass effect of the tumor and anterior
pituitary involvement. Most of the cases mimic pituitary macroadenoma on MRI. The most preferred
treatment combination is surgery and radiotherapy. We recommend adding sunitinib to this combination.
This illustrative case and those found in a systematic review of the literature highlight the importance
of histopathologic diagnosis and appropriate management since isolated pituitary metastasis is
challenging to preoperative diagnosis.