bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical evaluation of fiber reinforced resin composite either with short glass or polyethylene fibers versus nanohybrid resin composite in restoration of class II MOD cavities in posterior teeth: An 18-Month randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed Hamdy , Mosallam Rania Sayed , Abouauf Eman Ali
Published: December 2024

Background: An optimal restoration for the reconstruction of carious teeth should provide superior marginal integrity, high fracture toughness and maximize conservation of remaining tooth structure. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinical performance of fiber reinforced resin composites with either short glass or polyethylene fibers compared with that of nanohybrid resin composite in restoring of class II MOD cavities over an 18-month follow-up period.
Methods: Forty-five participants with class II MOD cavities were randomly enrolled. The participants were allocated to three groups (n=15): Group (1): “fiber reinforcement” technique using short glass fiber reinforced resin composite (EverX Posterior) while Group (2): “fiber reinforcement” technique using polyethylene fibers (Ribbond-Ultra). Both groups (1) and (2) were layered with surface layer of nanohybrid composite (Filtek Z250). Group (3): conventional nanohybrid resin composite. The modified USPHS criteria were used to evaluate the restorations at baseline; and at three, six, 12 and 18 months. The categorical data was reported as frequency and percentage. Intergroup comparisons were analyzed using Chi-Square test after Bonferroni correction (P ≤ 0.016). Comparisons within each group were analyzed using Cochran's Q test after Bonferroni correction (P ≤ 0.005).
Results: Intergroup comparisons revealed no statistically significant difference regarding all evaluated criteria except for color match. Compared with the other groups, the short glass fiber-reinforced restorations group presented significantly lower color match at different follow-up periods
Conclusions: Direct fiber-reinforced resin composite class II MOD restorations showed satisfactory clinical performance similar to nanohybrid resin composite during an 18-month follow-up period.
Clinical Significance: Fiber reinforcement of resin composites with either short glass or polyethylene fibers could be a reliable technique for restoring posterior cavities.
Psychological Flexibility, Sleep Quality, Anxiety, and Depression in Women with Breast and Gynecologic Cancer: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis
Authors: Kiyak Sibel , Polat Hilal Türkben
Published: December 2024

Background
Patients with breast and gynecological cancers frequently encounter various psychological and physical challenges that impact their overall health. This study aims to describe the relationship between anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and psychological flexibility in these patients.
Methods
This descriptive study was conducted with 212 patients with breast and gynecological cancers in the day treatment unit of an oncology department of a medical facility of a state university. Data were collected with participant information form, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Psychological Flexibility Scale, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.
Results
Of the studied patients, 36.3% and 55.3% were in the risk group for anxiety and depression, respectively. Furthermore, 75.3% of participants had poor sleep quality and medium–high psychological flexibility. While psychological flexibility has a positive effect on anxiety and depression, poor sleep quality and high body mass index have a negative effect. Psychological flexibility, sleep quality, and BMI explained 27% variance in anxiety and depression levels.
Conclusions
Poor sleep quality, low psychological flexibility, and BMI negatively affected anxiety and depression levels in patients.
Malignant upgrade in lesions of uncertain malignant potential in the breast (B3 lesions) – is open excision always necessary?
Authors: Heindl Felix , Schiel Janina , Hack Carolin C. , Amann Niklas , Jud Sebastian M. , Preuss Caroline I. , Häberle Lothar , Hartmann Arndt , Schulz-Wendtland Rüdiger , Wetzl Matthias , Beckmann Matthias W. , Erber Ramona
Published: December 2024

Purpose Unclear or suspicious breast findings are typically clarified by interventional breast biopsy. Lesions with uncertain malignant potential are grouped as B3 lesions in histopathology. The B3 group according to the European Working Group for Breast Screening Pathology (EWGBSP) comprises various breast lesions with different upgrade rates to invasive breast cancer (BC) or ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) if surgical removal is performed. The objective of this study was to investigate malignant upgrade rates to DCIS and/or invasive breast cancer (BC) after open surgical excision for the different B3 lesions.Methods A total of 192 patients with histologically verified B3 lesions were followed up retrospectively for this analysis. Patients with the B3 lesions atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), flat epithelial atypia (FEA), and classical lobular neoplasia (LN1-2) were combined into one group, while cellular fibroepithelial lesions (CFL) and phyllodes tumors without suspicion of malignancy, as well as papillomas and radial scars/complex sclerosing lesions (RS/CSL) were summarized in two other groups. We investigated the association of the different B3 lesions with invasive BC or DCIS after open surgical excision.Results Histopathological investigation revealed in 21 (10.9%) of the 192 patients invasive BC or DCIS after open surgical excision. The rate of patients with BC and/or DCIS significantly differed between the patient groups (p < 0.01, Fisher’s exact test): The highest rate was 17.5% (95% confidence interval (CI), 10.7–26.2) in patients within the group of ADH, FEA, and LN1-2. In the other two groups, fewer malignant lesions occurred. In the group with papillomas and RS/CSL the malignant upgrade rate was 4.3% (95% CI, 0.9–12.2), while within the group with CFL and phyllodes tumors without suspicion of malignancy no malignant upgrade was observed (0.0%, 95% CI, 0.0-16.9).Conclusions B3 lesions harbor the risk of malignant upgrade after surgical excision. In our collective ADH, FEA, and LN1-2 had significant higher upgrade rates than other B3 lesions.
Comparative Analysis of Trifecta and Pentafecta Outcomes in T1a and T1b Renal Tumors Following Robotic Partial Nephrectomy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Sharma Rakesh , S Lohith , Mohan Amaresh , Reddy Bhasker , Singh Rohit , Kharadae Manoj , Meyyappan Vivek , Srir Srikanth
Published: December 2024

Purpose:
This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of Trifecta and Pentafecta outcomes between T1a and T1b renal tumors in patients undergoing robotic partial nephrectomy (RAPN). We explore the influence of clinical factors, including the RENAL nephrometry score components, on these outcomes.
Methods:
A retrospective multicentre study was conducted on 133 patients who underwent RAPN for T1a (n = 51) and T1b (n = 82) renal tumors between 2017 and 2023. We assessed Trifecta and Pentafecta outcomes, and statistical comparisons were made. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact of tumor size and RENAL components on these outcomes.
Results:
Trifecta was achieved in 74.5% of T1a tumors and 68.3% of T1b tumors (p = 0.429). Pentafecta outcomes were achieved in 56.9% of T1a and 47.6% of T1b tumors (p = 0.297). Warm ischemia time was significantly longer in T1b tumors (p = 0.037). In the univariate analysis, warm ischemia time and tumor size were significant predictors of Trifecta and Pentafecta outcomes, respectively. Nearness to the collecting system was also a significant factor in univariate analysis (p = 0.045). Other clinical factors such as exophytic/endophytic properties and location relative to polar lines did not significantly impact outcomes.
Conclusion:
RAPN is equally effective for T1a and T1b renal tumors, providing comparable Trifecta and Pentafecta outcomes. Warm ischemia time, tumor size, and nearness to the collecting system are important factors influencing these outcomes.
The Use of the Venous Excess Ultrasound Score as a Bedside Tool to Predict Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Septic Shock, a prospective observational study
Authors: Elfeky Hanady Mohammed , AttaAllah Hatem Amin , Fathy Yasser Ibrahim , Fawzi Gehad Mahmoud , Helwa Ahmed Taha
Published: December 2024

Background
Assessment of venous congestion in septic shock patients is important, but it is often lacking due to the absence of a noninvasive bedside tool. The Venous Excess Ultrasound Grading System (VExUS) is an ultrasound score that has been associated with acute kidney injury (AKI) in cardiac patients. The objectives of this study were to assess the grade of congestion using VExUS in septic shock patients and to evaluate the correlation between serial VExUS scores and AKI, as well as the associations between VExUS scores and fluid balance, fluid overload, intensive care unit (ICU) stay duration, mechanical ventilation duration, and in-hospital mortality.
Methods
This was a prospective observational cohort study. We included 40 adult septic shock patients admitted to the ICU at Menoufia University Hospitals, following approval by the Ethics Committee. Patients with pregnancy, heart failure, portal hypertension, inferior vena cava thrombosis, and liver cirrhosis were excluded. Daily VExUS examinations were performed on the included patients, who were then monitored for the onset of new AKI. On day 7, patients were categorized based on changes in their VExUS scores into improving, unchanged, and worsening groups. Patients who developed AKI were followed until either the resolution of the AKI or the initiation of dialysis.
Results
The study enrolled forty patients, and those with AKI had higher VExUS scores (VExUS 2 and 3) than those without AKI, with significant differences on Days 2, 3, 4, and 6 of admission. Regarding VExUS status after one week, 50% of patients who developed AKI had worsening VExUS scores, compared to 16.7% of those without AKI, which is statistically significant. Furthermore, among AKI patients, 50% who improved their AKI parameters also showed improved VExUS scores, whereas none with worsening AKI parameters did. However, this change was not statistically significant. VExUS scores ≥ 2 demonstrated good specificity (83.3%) with a low false-positive rate. However, sensitivity was low (25%). Patients with worsening VExUS scores required dialysis more often (41.7%) than those with stable VExUS scores (12.5%), had longer durations of mechanical ventilation, and experienced higher mortality compared to other patients.
Conclusion
The VExUS score may be a useful predictor of AKI in patients with septic shock.
Clinical trial registration: The study was registered in the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry: PACTR202409715853957, date:2/9/2024.
Changes in CD4 + T-cells subsets in patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis
Authors: Zuluaga Paola , Zurera Coral , Fuster Daniel , Hernandez-Rubio Anna , Teniente-Serra Aina , Martínez-Cáceres Eva , Muga Roberto
Published: December 2024

Alcohol-related cirrhosis (AC) is a condition that impacts in immunity. We analyzed changes over time in CD4+subsets in AC-patients. We included patients with alcohol use disorder admitted at least twice for treatment. Patients without evidence of liver disease were the control group (CG). We analyzed naïve, memory, TEMRA, Th1, Th2, Th17, early-activated, and late-activated subsets. During the follow-up, TEMRA were increased (1.2 ± 1.1 vs. 2.1 ± 1.1, p = 0.03) in AC-patients (n = 5) and Th17 were decreased (14.1 ± 4.3 vs. 12.3 ± 6.4, p = 0.03) in the CG (n = 22). Late-activated cells were associated with a decrease in memory cells in both the groups. This association was stronger in AC-patients (r=-0.90, p = 0.04). The proportion of memory cells was correlated with an increased of Th1/Th2/Th17 in the CG (r = 0.70, r = 0.68, r = 0.63; p < 0.01, respectively), whereas in AC-patients was correlated with a decrease in Th17 (r=-0.90, p = 0.03). AC-patients showed an increase in the proportion of TEMRA, loss of heterogeneity and decreased CD4+ differentiation.
Radiography may not be accurate in assessing acute ankle sprains in children
Authors: Li Xiongtao , Shen Xiantao , Wang Si , Sun Jie , Liu Zhaoting
Published: December 2024

Background: Acute ankle sprains are among the most frequent injuries in children and are often associated with chondral avulsion fractures and ligament injuries. However, radiography may not be sufficiently accurate for assessing cartilage and ligament injuries in children. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the necessity of radiography in the diagnosis of acute ankle sprains in children. A secondary purpose was to assess whether ultrasonography can effectively enhance the diagnostic accuracy of acute ankle sprains in children.
Methods: We collected medical data from 78 children with acute ankle sprains who underwent both radiological and ultrasound examinations, 59 patients of whom also had ankle MRI results. The agreement between radiographic and ultrasonographic findings in these 78 patients was assessed using Cohen's kappa and McNemar tests. Using MRI results as the gold standard, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the radiography and ultrasonography were evaluated for the 59 patients. Cohen's kappa and McNemar's test were also utilized to assess the reliability of the radiography and ultrasonography in comparison to MRI.
Results: Among the 78 children with acute ankle sprains, 29 patients did not show fractures on radiological examination, but these fractures were detected by ultrasound examination. Of these 29 fractures, 20 were chondral avulsion fractures of the distal fibula, and 9 were avulsion fractures of the lateral talus process. The agreement between radiography and ultrasonography was fair (Kappa = 0.250), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Using MRI as the gold standard, radiography resulted in 17 false negative cases for lateral ankle fractures, with a sensitivity of only 47%. Ultrasonography had only one false negative case, achieving a sensitivity of 97%. Ultrasonography showed substantial agreement with MRI (Kappa = 0.797), while radiography showed fair agreement with MRI (Kappa = 0.384).
Conclusions: Acute ankle sprains in children frequently result in a high incidence of chondral avulsion fractures. However, radiography may be inadequate for accurately diagnosing these fractures. Reliance on radiography alone may lead to a substantial number of false negative cases. Compared to radiography, ultrasonography demonstrates high accuracy in the diagnosis of chondral avulsion fractures and ligament injuries in children. We believe that ultrasonography, as a non-invasive, radiation-free, and cost-effective dynamic diagnostic method, is particularly suitable for the early diagnosis of acute ankle sprains in children.
Level of evidence: Level III; Diagnostic Study
Circ0066187 promotes pulmonary fibrogenesis through targeting STAT3-mediated metabolism signal pathway
Authors: Liu Bo , Liu Weili , Li Hongbo , Zhai Nailiang , Lv Changjun , Song Xiaodong , Yang Shuanying
Published: December 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive interstitial pneumonia, with increasing incidence and prevalence. One of the cellular characteristics is the differentiation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. However, the metabolic-related signaling pathway regulated by circular RNAs (circRNAs) during this process remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that circ0066187 promoted fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation by metabolic-related signaling pathway. Mechanism analysis research identified that circ0066187 directly targeted signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)-mediated metabolism signal pathway to enhance fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation by sponging miR-29b-2-5p, resulting in pulmonary fibrosis. Integrative multi-omics analysis of metabolomics and proteomics revealed three pathways co-enriched in proteomics and metabolomics, namely, protein digestion and absorption, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and FoxO signaling pathway. In these three signaling pathways, seven differentially expressed metabolites such as L-glutamine, L-proline, adenosine monophosphate (AMP), L-arginine, L-phenylalanine, L-lysine and L-tryptophan, and six differentially expressed proteins containing dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4), cyclin D1 (CCND1), cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), collagen type VI alpha 1 (COL6A1) and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) were co-enriched. Gain-and loss-of-function studies and rescue experiments were performed to verify that circ0066187 promoted STAT3 expression by inhibiting miR-29b-2-5p expression to control the above metabolites and proteins. As a result, these metabolites and proteins provided the material basis and energy requirements for the progression of pulmonary fibrosis. In conclusion, circ0066187 can function as a profibrotic metabolism-related factor, and interference with circ0066187 can prevent pulmonary fibrosis. The finding supported that circ0066187 can be a metabolism-related therapeutic target for IPF treatment.
Isolation and Identification of Key Fungi in the Improvement of Composting Through the Takakura Technique
Authors: COBOS ANGELICA GEOVANNA ZEA , PEREZ PABLO CABALLERO
Published: December 2024

This study explores the role of filamentous fungi in enhancing composting efficiency using the Takakura technique. By preparing a mixture to generate fungal seeds, we investigated the decomposition of organic matter. Laboratory microbiological analysis identified key fungi, including Penicillium sp., Aspergillus nidulans, Fusarium sp., and Aspergillus versicolor. The resulting compost was evaluated for physical properties and nutritional quality, with a focus on nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels. Our findings indicate that these fungi significantly improve the decomposition process, resulting in compost that exhibits similar or superior quality compared to vermicompost. Statistical analysis demonstrated that Takakura treatments produced significantly higher compost yields (p < 0.05) than controls, while maintaining optimal physicochemical conditions for microbial activity. Enhanced nutrient levels further confirm the effectiveness of the Takakura method in producing high-quality compost. This comprehensive approach underscores the potential of filamentous fungi in sustainable organic waste management and agriculture, offering a viable strategy to optimize composting practices, improve soil health, and promote environmental sustainability.
Long-term Care following BMT: Healthcare professionals’ perceptions on shared care
Authors: McErlean Gemma , Ashley Christine , Pradhan Anisha , Yenson Vanessa , Kerridge Ian , Halcomb Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

Purpose This study explores the perspectives of blood and marrow transplant (BMT) specialist nurses and physicians, and General Practitioners (GPs) regarding the long-term management and follow-up care of BMT survivors.Methods A descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured online interviews with thirteen purposefully selected BMT Physicians (n = 4), Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) (n = 6) and GPs (n = 3), experienced in providing long-term care to survivors of BMT. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.Results Both specialist and community-based practitioners identified deficiencies in models of care delivery and in the organisation of long-term care for BMT survivors, particularly in relation to communication, transition and personalisation of care. Two themes were identified that explored 1) Efficiency and quality of current care provision for BMT survivors and 2) Characteristics of optimal care. All participants recognised the need for flexible, patient-centred models of shared care that bring together hospital and community-based healthcare professionals in providing optimal care to BMT survivors.Conclusion The growing population of survivors of BMT requires an urgent re-evaluation of healthcare models to address their complex long-term care needs. This will require a well-trained primary care-based workforce supported by collaborative relationships with specialist centres and easy access to essential information. Current approaches to post-BMT care that limit provision of care to specialist BMT services are unsustainable, inefficient, and do not support the transition of patients from tertiary to community healthcare services.Implications for Cancer Survivors: Our research suggests that models of shared care incorporating hospital- and community-based healthcare professionals provide the best approach to support BMT survivors’ experiences and improve their quality of survival.
Kinetics of reformation of the S0 state capable of progressing to the S1 state after the O2 release by Photosystem II
Authors: Boussac Alain , Sellés Julien , sugiura miwa
Published: December 2024

The active site for water oxidation in Photosystem II (PSII ) consists of a Mn4CaO5 cluster close to a redox-active tyrosine residue (TyrZ). The enzyme cycles through five sequential oxidation states, from S0 to S4, in the water splitting process. O2 evolution occurs in the final S3TyrZ● to S0TyrZ transition. Chloride is also involved in this mechanism. By using PSII from Thermosynechococcus vestitus in which both Ca and Cl have been substituted for Sr and Br, in order to slow down the S3TyrZ● to S0TyrZ + O2 transition, with a t1/2 ~ 5 ms at room temperature, it is shown that the kinetics of the recovery of a functional S0 has a t1/2 also close to 5 ms. It is suggested that, similarly, the reformation of a functional S0 state follows the S3TyrZ● to S0TyrZ + O2 transition in CaCl-PSII and that the insertion of a new substrate molecule of water (O5) and protons does not require further delay.
The Analysis of Multidimensional Poverty Reduction Effects of Binary Financial Participation: Evidence from Rural Household in China
Authors: Wang Qianling , Chen Zhigang , Gui Li
Published: December 2024

This study systematically investigates the impact of formal and informal financial participation on the multidimensional poverty status of rural households in China, emphasizing its targeted effectiveness within the household context. Such insights are crucial for enhancing the endogenous poverty alleviation capabilities of rural households and promoting balanced regional economic development, offering valuable implications for addressing similar global issues. Using continuous panel data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) spanning 2014 to 2020, the Alkire-Foster (A-F) method was applied to measure rural households' multidimensional poverty status. Furthermore, panel Logit estimation and dynamic Probit models were employed to evaluate the poverty reduction effects of dual financial participation at the household level, alongside an analysis of mechanisms and heterogeneity effects. The findings are as follows: (1) Binary financial participation significantly alleviates the multidimensional poverty of rural households in China, a result that remains robust when accounting for poverty state dependence and endogeneity concerns; (2) The impacts of formal and informal financial participation on various dimensions of household poverty differ, with formal finance having a pronounced effect on assets, risk resilience, and education, while informal finance more effectively improves the quality-of-life dimension; (3) Substantial differences exist in the multidimensional poverty reduction effects of formal and informal financial participation across diverse household groups.
The immediate effects of kinesiology taping on muscle activity, functional balance, and tibial translation in anterior cruciate ligament injury: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ravanbod Roya , Moosavi Negin , Vaziri Arash Sharafat , Tahmasebi Mohammad Naghi
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To investigate the immediate effects of kinesiology taping (KT) on anterior cruciate ligament injury (ACLI).
Methods In this randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled study, 30 men with partial ACLI were randomly assigned to either KT (n=15) or placebo KT (PKT) (n=15) groups. Muscle facilitation for vastus medialis (VM) and mechanical correction of the knee was performed by KT. Pain, muscle force, and electromyography (EMG) activity of the VM, rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL) and biceps femoris (BF) that recorded during sit-to-stand (STS) and semi-squat (SS) tests. The tibial translation (TT) was also measured during maximum knee flexion (T1) and full standing (T2) in both STS and SS tests with a motion analysis system.
Results: Pain decreased significantly in the KT group (P=.04). The force of the VM, RF, and VL increased, while the EMG activity of only the VM improved in the KT group (P < .03). The weight transfer time in STS decreased (P = .006), and the maximum force during the counter movement increased in SS (P = .02) in the KT group. A statistically significant between-group difference was found in favor of the KT group in the STS test (P=.01, ηp2=0.23). In the T2 and SS test, the reduced TT in the KT group was almost significant (P=0.07).
Conclusions: Kinesiology taping can immediately improve pain, muscle activity, and function in ACLI and could be considered a beneficial treatment for controlling TT which is compromised in ACLI.
Characterizing selection signatures in coding and noncoding regions of 14,886 cancer genomes
Authors: Yang Jian , Zheng Mengyue , Sun Xiwei , Hou Junren , Guo Minmin , Liu Xinran , Yang Wen
Published: December 2024

Clonal selection drives cancer development, but quantifying selection on noncoding somatic mutations remains largely unexplored. Here, we introduce dNdS-Fun, an extension of the dN/dS framework to quantify selection of both coding and noncoding somatic mutations, thereby enhancing the discovery of driver genes. Applying dNdS-Fun to whole-genome sequencing data from 14,886 cancer patients across 31 cancer types, we identified 196 genes under positive selection across multiple cancer types or datasets. Of these, 83 were previously unrecognized as drivers, and 56 were identified solely through noncoding mutations. Additionally, we observed widespread negative selection throughout the genome, particularly enriched in essential or cancer-dependent genes. Twenty genes exhibited an overall signature of negative selection but showed positive selection in noncoding elements, indicating both their conserved functions and adaptive regulatory roles in tumorigenesis. Our study reveals pervasive selection signatures of non-coding mutations, providing important insights for future research on their roles in cancer progression.
Prevalence of virological failure and associated factors among adult patients on highly active anti retro viral treatment in public health facilities at Tulu Bolo Town Southwest Shoa, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2024
Authors: Lamesa Ashenafi
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The goal of antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection is to achieve and maintain virologic suppression. Review of charts of adult HIV-positive patients at public health facilities in Tulu Bolo Town reveals that approximately 6.07% of patients did not respond to first-line antiretroviral medication. The identified gap indicates that the study area's virologic failure prevalence and contributing factors are not well-documented. Thus, this study's objectives are to evaluate prevalence and fill up the knowledge gap about the causes of virologic failure.
Objective: To assess the prevalence of virological failure and associated factors among patients taking highly active anti-Retroviral therapy in Tulu Bolo Town Health facilities, Oromia, Ethiopia,2024.
Methods: Health facility based cross sectional study was conducted at Tulu Bolo town in public health facilities from September 30, 2024 to October 30, 2024. Total sample sizes of 274 records of clients were selected using simple random sampling technique. Data was cleaned and entered in to EPI info version 7.2.0.1 and exported to SPSS version 20.0 for further analysis. The association was identified using binary logistic regression model. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% conﬁdence intervals (CI) was computed to identify the presence and strength of association. Finally, statistically significant variables were declared at p-value < 0.05 along with 95% CI.
Results: A total of 274 charts of HIV positive clients were included in the study. The magnitude of virologic failure was 12.8% (95%CI 9%, 17%). Baseline CD4 count < 200 (AOR 6.1, 95%CI 2.06, 18.43), Clients infected with TB (AOR 4.8 95%CI (1.78, 12.96), treatment interruption (AOR 3.05, 95% CI 1.06, 8.77) and adherence (AOR 3.67, 95%CI 1.39, 9.66) were statistically significant association.
Conclusions and Recommendation: The overall prevalence of virologic failure of this study was high as compared to standard. Baseline CD4 Count, TB infection, treatment interruption and Adherence were significant factors. Health facility ART provider and HIV/AIDS program manager should give special attention for Clients with history of TB co infection and CD4 count < 200 needs care and support and providing TB preventive therapy.
Paclobutrazol induces adventitious rooting in chestnut by modulating auxin transport and signaling
Authors: Castro-Camba Ricardo , Sánchez Conchi , Rico Saleta , Vidal Nieves , Covelo Purificación , Cernadas María José , Aldrey Anxela , Vielba Jesús M.
Published: December 2024

Vegetative propagation of chestnut relies on the formation of adventitious roots. However, the recalcitrant nature of this species hinders the development of new roots, establishing a bottleneck for industrial and research purposes. Auxin is involved in all aspects of the adventitious rooting process. Exogenous auxin application is mandatory to induce rooting in chestnut, although other phytohormones are known to be involved in the signaling events leading to root induction and growth. Gibberellins, which are essential for several developmental processes in plants, inhibit the formation of adventitious roots. In the present study we used physiological and molecular analyses to investigate the role of gibberellins and paclobutrazol (gibberellins-synthesis inhibitor) on the adventitious root formation in chestnut. When paclobutrazol was applied to chestnut microshoots in the absence of exogenous auxin, it led to the formation of adventitious roots, although in a lower frequency than with auxin treatment. Interestingly, the inductive effect of auxins was blocked when gibberellins were applied concomitantly with auxin. Our results indicate that gibberellins have a negative effect on adventitious rooting in chestnut, particularly through their control on the activity of the CsPIN1 gene. This study helps explain the role of gibberellins in the rooting process, the signaling mechanisms involved and the role played by auxin transporters.
PhSLB1 Regulates Branch Development in Petunia
Authors: Deng Jichu , Deng Xinyi , Zhang Mengyu , Tang Ziyan , Dong Lili
Published: December 2024

F-box proteins play crucial roles in various developmental stages in plants, such as shoot branching. As an important ornamental and model plant, the branch development of petunia has always been a hot research topic. In our study, the homologous gene of SMALL LEAF AND BUSHY1 (SLB1) was isolated from Petunia ×hybrida cv. Mitchell Diploid. PhSLB1 contained a C-terminal WD40 repeat domain and an N-terminal F-box domain. An analysis of expression indicated that PhSLB exhibited the highest expression in roots, whereas expression levels were lowest in stems and leaves. Subcellular localization assays demonstrated that PhSLB1 was localized on the nucleus. Furthermore, RNA interference (RNAi) of PhSLB1 in petunia significantly increased the branch number. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that PhSLB1 not only regulated cytokinin and strigolactone pathway but also affected the expression of some key branching-related genes, such as PhBRC1, PhKNOX, PhH2A, and PhL27. Our research establishes a theoretical groundwork for revealing the mechanism by which SLB1 regulates branch development.
Ophthalmological concerns in spontaneous delivery
Authors: Akopyan V. S. , Semenova N. S. , Kravchenko A. A.
Published: December 2024

Spontaneous delivery is a natural process. But some pathological conditions can lead to dangerous consequences for the health of the mother and child in the process of physiological childbirth. In this case, there are indications for operative delivery, which may be accompanied by a number of complications. In accordance with the clinical guidelines of the Russian Federation in 2021, there are no absolute indications for operative delivery from the ophthalmological side. At the same time, some experts strongly recommend cesarean section for certain ophthalmic conditions. The objective of this review was to consider the validity of the concerns of obstetricians and gynecologists regarding some common diseases of the eye during spontaneous delivery.
New generation of monofocal intraocular lens for cataract surgery in comorbid conditions
Authors: Tereshchenko A. V. , Trifanenkova I. G. , Prokofiev Yu. E. , Ivanov A. M. , Okuneva M. V.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: to evaluate the functional results of using the Monofocal+ intraocular lens for cataract surgery in comorbid conditions of the eye.

Material and methods. The study included 31 patients (45 eyes) with cataracts. Patients underwent cataract phacoemulsification with implantation of ICB00 Eyhance IOL. The operation was performed on the TECNIS platform (Johnson & Johnson), based on Em, according to the Kane and Barrett Universal II formulas. Patients were divided into 3 study groups (15 eyes each) according to concomitant ocular pathology: primary open-angle glaucoma IIa, age-related macular degeneration, non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, dry form of intermediate stage. Each study group, using a retrospective analysis of data from patients operated on over the past 2 years, was divided into two control subgroups: in one of them, patients underwent implantation of a monofocal IOL (SA60AT AcrySof, Alcon), and in the other — an EDOF IOL (DFT015 AcrySof IQ Vivity, Alcon).

Results. Uncorrected visual acuity of 66 cm in patients with the Eyhance IOL was significantly higher than with the SA60AT IOL for all considered comorbid conditions (p < 0.05). Uncorrected visual acuity at near distance (33 cm) had a clear advantage in patients with the Vivity IOL compared to others (p < 0.05). The Eyhance IOL had uncorrected visual acuity of 0.23, and the SA60AT IOL had a value of 0.2. Uncorrected visual acuity at 33 cm in patients with Eyhance IOL with concomitant glaucoma was significantly higher than in patients with SA60AT IOL (p < 0.05), however, no different from those with age-related macular degeneration and non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (p>0.05). All patients with the IOL Monofocal+ expressed their satisfaction with the vision they received, which was reflected in the results of the VF test-14 QOL questionnaire.

Conclusion. New generation monofocal IOLs showed good functional results in patients with cataracts and the considered comorbid pathology of the eye: primary open-angle glaucoma II a, intermediate stage of the dry form of age-related macular degeneration, non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy. There is a relatively high visual acuity at distance and at intermediate distances, and good patient satisfaction with the resulting vision. To clarify the indications and contraindications for the IOL Monofocal+ use in patients with various concomitant ophthalmopathologies more long-term clinical observations and analysis of implantations are required.
Choriodal melanoma: is enucleation still relevant?
Authors: Brovkina A. F. , Mirzaev K. B. , Kabardikova L. A. , Tsybikova N. D.
Published: December 2024

For many centuries, enucleation was the only method of treating Choriodal melanoma CM, and, despite the development of many organ-preserving methods, it has not lost it’s relevance today. In recent years, microRNAs, which began to receive attention from the beginning of the 2000s, now play the role of biological markers in many diseases both in diagnosis and in assessing the effectiveness of treatment. There are only a few studies on the significance of circulating microRNAs as a marker of the effectiveness of surgical treatment of cancers of certain locations (breast, lungs). As for uveal melanoma, there is practically no such information in the literature.

The purpose of the work is to determine the effectiveness of enucleation as a surgical method for treating large choroids, based on the nature of the expression of microRNA-223, microRNA-27b, microRNA-155 in the blood plasma of patients in M0N0 stage.

Material and methods. 83 patients with CM aged 61.5 ± 10.9 years (22–83 years) were examined. The thickness of the MC varied from 2.23 to 22.00 mm (on average 9.32 ± 3.97 mm). The control group consisted of 28 volunteers aged 45–78 years (average 62.90 ± 1.42 years). The expression pattern of microRNA-223, microRNA-27, microRNA-155 in the blood plasma of patients was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction before and over a period of 3 to 54 months after surgery.

Results. In all patients the expression pattern showed overexpression of all microRNAs compared to the control group at different periods of the study, starting from 3 months. During observation, 6 patients were diagnosed with liver metastases. A comparison of the study results in this group before and after enucleation with a group of patients without metastases showed an increase in the expression of a panel of microRNAs during the development of metastases.

Conclusion. Enucleation remains the operation of choice in patients with large choroidal melanomas at the M0N0 stage. Control of the nature of the expression of microRNA-223, microRNA-27b and microRNA-155 in the blood plasma of patients makes it possible to personalize the indications for enucleation.
Implementation of STEM-Integrated PjBL Based on Lesson Study: Improving Students' Critical Thinking Skills
Authors: Nurdiana Lizza , Winaryati Eny , Maharani Endang Tri Wahyuni , Ikhsan Zanaton H , Rauf Rose Amnah Abd , Salaffudin Affan
Published: December 2024

This study aims to examine the application of lesson study design on chemistry material in improving critical thinking skills of students in class XI-2 SMA Negeri 2 Semarang. The research was conducted for three meetings involving the implementation of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) learning model with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) approach. The lesson study stages included planning, implementation, and reflection focusing on reaction rate material, involving students in collaborative activities such as designing and testing simple tools. The results showed that the application of the STEM-based PjBL model significantly improved students' critical thinking skills. This improvement can be seen from students' ability to identify, analyse, and solve problems based on relevant theories. The learning activities implemented, such as group discussions and windows shopping activities, also play an important role in improving interaction and collaboration between students. The implementation of STEM in PjBL not only deepens students‘ understanding of chemical concepts, but also increases students’ interest and active participation in the learning process. This study concludes that the application of STEM-based PjBL learning model, collaborated with lesson study, is able to improve critical thinking skills and the quality of chemistry learning on reaction rate material.
Enhancing the efficiency of solar-powered water distillation units by utilization of waste heat
Authors: Reddy S. P. , Abd-Elhady M. S. , Mansour N. , Dahlhaus D.
Published: December 2024

Thermal water desalination is based on the evaporation and condensation of water, and such a process consumes a lot of energy, which lowers the economy of the process for commercial water desalination. The objective of this research is to improve the desalination energy efficiency of a novel domestic water desalination unit, which is based on thermal desalination, and this is done via utilization of the waste heat in the generated steam and reducing the operating costs. The distillation process begins with solar-powered evaporation of the salty water in the evaporator, followed by condensation of the generated water vapor coming from the evaporator over the cross-flow heat exchangers located in the condenser, which preheats the incoming saline water from the saltwater tank before it enters the evaporator. To assess the system's performance, comprehensive measurements are taken, including the electrical energy output from the photovoltaic (PV) panels and the volume of the output distilled water. Notably, the energy efficiency of the distillation is defined as the ratio of the heat energy gained by the distilled water, i.e. collected at the end of the day, to the electrical energy input to the electric heater, and it is found to be, on average, 82%.
Water quality challenges in rural Ethiopia: insights from the North Mecha district on physiochemical and microbial contamination
Authors: Eshetu Yesuf Assefa , Assefa Eshetu , Fentie Mesenbet , Aklog Dagnachew , Wondim Tilik Tena
Published: December 2024

This investigation's overarching goal is to ensure that drinking water quality remains a key public health issue in rural Ethiopia. The study aimed to evaluate the physiochemical and microbial quality of drinking water sources and household storages in rural Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 24 kebeles of the district during the wet season. Escherichia coli presence was analyzed in water samples collected from selected community water points and household storages using membrane filtration, while physiochemical parameters were analyzed following standard water examination protocols. Findings revealed that turbidity (35.7%), pH (78.6%), iron (20%), and free residual chlorine (89.3%) levels in the water samples did not conform with the standard. E. coli contamination detected in 42.9% (n = 56) and 47.9% (n = 96) of samples collected at sources and household storage, respectively. This study revealed that significant water quality contamination was observed at both sources and household storages; hence, public health is at high risk. Additionally, the study emphasizes that improved water sources do not always guarantee safety and highlights the need for comprehensive protective measures. Therefore, proper source protection and treatment and appropriate treatment at the household level should be implemented to provide safe drinking water.
Avaliação de medidas coletadas de forma automatizada em um lisímetro de lençol freático constante
Authors: Franco José Rafael , Calça Marcus Vinícius Contes , Cremasco Caroline Pires , Raniero Matheus Rodrigue , Oliveira Victor Crespo de , Rodrigues Sérgio Augusto , Stucchi Giovana , Dal Pai Alexandre
Published: December 2024

O lisímetro de lençol freático constante é um dos métodos de instrumentação agrometeorológica capaz de obter a evapotranspiração de uma determinada localidade. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar a avaliação das medidas de evapotranspiração registradas em um lisímetro de lençol freático constante automatizado por Pellison et al (2023), em relação às medidas de um lisímetro de pesagem construído por Gomes Junior, Dal Pai e Dal Pai (2019) na mesma área experimental, e de valores de evapotranspiração estimados pelo modelo de Penman-Monteith (PM-FAO56). O experimento foi realizado na Estação de Lisimetria do Departamento de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia da Faculdade de Ciências Agronômicas (UNESP) - Botucatu (SP) - Brasil. Foram utilizados dados diários de evapotranspiração medidos pelos lisímetros de lençol freático constante e de pesagem e estimados pelo modelo de Penman-Monteith a partir de medidas meteorológicas (temperatura do ar, umidade relativa do ar, radiação solar e vento), no período 21/06/2015 a 22/09/2015. Para realizar a avaliação e análise estatística foram calculados o coeficiente de correlação linear de Pearson (r), índice de concordância de Wilmott (d), erro quadrático médio (MSE) e raiz do erro quadrático médio (RMSE). Foi aplicado, também, o teste de Kruskall-Wallis complementado pelo teste de Dunn. O método automatizado para coleta de medidas de evapotranspiração criado por Pelisson (2023) não apresentou diferença significativa comparado ao lisímetro de pesagem, o que o valida como um método de obtenção de medidas de evapotranspiração de baixo custo, porém apresentou diferença ao ser comparado aos valores obtidos pelo método de PM-FAO56.
Characterizing Pharmacokinetic Variability of Topiroxostat in Chinese Population: Insights from a Phase I Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Zhong Tianqi , Huang Kaizong , Han LuYao , Pang Wenbo , Xia Yan , Qu Shengjun , Yu Guo , Chen Yangsheng , Fan Hongwei
Published: December 2024

Objective:

This Phase I clinical trial aimed to address the knowledge gap regarding topiroxostat's
use outside Japan by characterizing its pharmacokinetic profile, safety, and efficacy in healthy Chinese subjects.

Methods:

The trial followed a randomized, open-label, three-dose group design, enrolling 12 healthy participants
and administering topiroxostat at three different dose levels. The study utilized NONMEM software for
pharmacokinetic analysis, evaluating the impact of demographic and biochemical covariates on drug disposition.

Results:

Pharmacokinetic analysis shows the peak drug concentration (Cmax) under a single oral administration
of 20, 40, and 80 mg of Topiroxostat, which was found in healthy subjects to be 215.46 ± 94.04 ng/mL,
473.74 ± 319.83 ng/mL and 1009.63 ± 585.98 ng/mL, respectively. The time to peak drug concentration
(Tmax) was longer in females (0.79–0.98 h) than in males (0.53–0.93 h). Activated partial thromboplastin
time (APTT) and triglycerides (TG) were included as covariates for the typical value of the absorption rate
constant (TVKA) in our pharmacokinetic model. The dose (DOSE) was considered a covariate for the typical
value of bioavailability (TVF1), and sex (SEX) was considered a covariate for the typical value of clearance
(TVCL). The typical population values for topiroxostat included Q/F at 4.91 L/h, KA at 0.657 h-¹, Vc/F at
32.5 L, Vp/F at 30 L, and CL/F at 124 L/h.

Conclusion:

The trial successfully established the pharmacokinetic parameters of topiroxostat in a Chinese
population, confirming its safety and efficacy. The results support the need for individualized dosing strategies
and optimize therapeutic outcomes.