bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Edukasi mengenai Makanan Pendamping Air Susu Ibu dengan Buku Kesehatan Ibu dan Anak Revisi 2015 terhadap Pengetahuan dan Sikap Ibu dalam Pemberian Makanan Pendamping Air Susu Ibu di Kecamatan Pontianak Barat
Authors: Hasanah Ridha , Ilmiawan Muhammad In'am , Andriani Rini
Published: April 2023

Complementary food is nutritious food and drink as a transition from breast milk to family food. The positive and negative aspects are contained in one's knowledge and will determine one's attitude. The 2015 revised Maternal and Child Health handbook contains records of maternal and child health to maintain and care for maternal and child health. The objective of this research is determine the effect of education on complementary feeding with the 2015 revised Maternal and Child Health handbook on mothers’ knowledge and attitude of complementary feeding in West Pontianak District. This is a quasi experimental research with a one group pretest-posttest design. Taking 66 samples with consecutive sampling. Knowledge and attitude questionnaires and material evaluation sheets are used as measuring tools. Data analysis use paired sample t-test with the wilcoxon signed-rank test as an alternative test. There were 12 mothers who had a moderate level of knowledge before education, then increased to 21 mothers after education. The results of the wilcoxon signed-rank test obtained the sig. value < 0.05. The mothers’ attitude in terms of complementary feeding and feeding rules are changed between before and after education. Education with the 2015 revised Maternal and Child Health handbook had a significant effect on increasing the category of mothers' knowledge of complementary food and changing mothers' attitude in feeding rules. However, it is still necessary to add material based on the latest scientific evidence in the 2015 revised Maternal and Child Health handbook.
Evaluasi Penanganan Dokumen Rekam Medis Terkait Penyebaran Infeksi Covid-19
Authors: Nadya Naila Zulfa , Wardhina Faizah , Ijami Riko
Published: April 2023

Medical recorders can be directly or indirectly infected with the coronavirus, and even the risk will be greater. Medical recorders who handle parts of patient files can be at risk of infection because they are in direct contact with patient files that may have been exposed to the coronavirus, so medical records need to be handled properly. This study aims to evaluate the handling of medical record documents related to the spread of covid-19 infection at the Tk.III Dr. R. Soeharsono Banjarmasin Hospital. This research uses a qualitative approach to descriptive methods, with 4 primary informants (2 nurses for COVID-19 patients and 2 medical record officers) and 2 triangulation informants (the head nurses for COVID-19 patients and the head of the medical record installation). The research instrument used was an observation and interview guide. The results showed that the procedures for maintaining medical records during the treatment period at Tk.III Dr. R. Soeharsono Banjarmasin Hospital have not made regulations in written form including Standard Operating Procedure. The nurse learned that the medical records of Covid-19 patients should be placed in the nurse station and should not be taken to the treatment room to avoid virus contamination. The filling of medical record documents for Covid-19 patients is no different from ordinary patients. Procedures for maintaining medical records of Covid-19 patients who go home or die at Tk.III.Dr.R. Soeharsono Banjarmasin hospital has made rules in the form of Standard Operating Procedure but some procedures cannot be carried out.
Faktor Risiko Keluhan Digital Eye Strain Pada Mahasiswa Karena Peningkatan Penggunaan Perangkat Digital di Masa Pembelajaran Daring
Authors: Firdani Fea , Aliffa Shafina Putri , Azkha Nizwardi
Published: April 2023

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, learning method is conducted through online learning and the number of students who use digital device is increasing. The purpose of this study was to determine the risk factors of DES in Informatic Engineering student of Polytechnic C. This research used cross-sectional design, was conducted in February-June 2022 on 90 respondents of Informatic Engineering of Polytechnic C students 2018-2021. The data was analyzed using univariate, bivariate, and multivariate methods. The result showed the highest score of DES was 102, lowest score was 5, and average score was 36.26. 54,6% of the respondents were male, 95,6% used digital device for >4 hour, 52,2% did not use glasses when using digital devices, 94,4% not doing eye rest, 76,7% used digital devices in non-ergonomic position, 70,0% used digital devices with risky viewing angle, and 83,3% used digital devices with risky vision distance. There were differences of DES between the duration of digital device usage >4 and ?4 hour (p=0.033), ergonomic and non-ergonomic position (p=0.022) and risky and non-risky angle of digital device usage (p=0.033). There were no differences of DES between gender (p=0.251), using and not using glasses (p=0.932), doing and not doing eye rest (p=0.543), and risky and non-risky vision distance (p=0.426). The position of digital device usage has the most influence on DES (B=-15.521). It is recommended for students when using digital devices to practice ergonomics position.
Concrete Poetics and Non-Art in John Cage and Dom Sylvester Houédard
Authors: Gillott Brendan C.
Published: April 2023

This essay considers the work of John Cage and Dom Sylvester Houédard (dsh) as both concrete poetry and non- or anti-art, paying special attention to their statements of poetics from the early Fifties through to the early Seventies. Although their contribution to the various manifestations of mid-century concrete poetics is well recognised, this recognition has served to obscure their concurrent commitment to anti-art and ‘Neo-Dada’. The inclusion of concrete poetry among the movements of poetic modernism is much debated, and I argue that the accompanying anti-art gestures of these two writers further troubles that designation; for them, concrete poetry as non-art intimated a rejection of their modernist inheritance.
Statistical Analysis in Research
Authors: Tzenios Nikolaos
Published: April 2023

Through hypothesis testing, it is possible to evaluate whether sample data collected based on a circumstance or scenario is statistical significance and can help enhance decision-making processes on such circumstance or scenario. To undertake hypothesis testing, statistics measures and examines random population samples using a variety of statistical tests before establishing values that are compared with test statistics and levels of significance to establish whether they are statistically significant. Both null and alternative hypotheses will be developed based on the provided set of SPSS data related to various aspects of employees’ work environment and a Pearson’s correlation, independent samples t-test and ANOVA will be calculated using SPSS software to determine whether the null hypothesis should be accepted or rejected.
Análisis del nivel de satisfacción de la atención de pacientes en el área de hospitalización clínica de un hospital oncológico de Guayaquil
Authors: Galván Vanegas Graciela Alejandra , Mañez Ortiz Miguel Ángel
Published: April 2023

Introducción: La calidad asistencial es la relación entre los servicios prestados y la obtención de los resultados deseados, enfocándose en las necesidades de los pacientes y optimización de recursos, siendo oportuno conocer el nivel de satisfacción de los usuarios que consiste en el resultado de la evaluación de la atención recibida. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir el nivel de satisfacción obtenido en el área de Hospitalización Clínica de un hospital oncológico de Guayaquil.
Métodos: El presente estudio observacional se realizó en el Hospital de SOLCA Guayaquil-Ecuador de marzo del 2021 a marzo 2022. Se incluyeron pacientes o familiares en el área de hospitalización clínica. Las variables fueron sexo, tipo de cuidador, nivel de satisfacción (variable dependiente a escala Likert). La muestra fue probabilística. Se presenta un análisis de la calidad del cuestionario con el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach y la Prueba U de Mann-Whitney. Se utiliza un análisis de asociación entre las preguntas del cuestionario para observar la correlación.
Resultados: Participaron 345 encuestados, 19 pacientes, 326 familiares. Mayores a 56 años en familiares (29.1 %) y pacientes (78.9 %). La calidad del cuestionario fue alta , alfa de Cronbach =1. La satisfacción global fue de 4.85 ± 0.41 (sobre 5). La calificación mas baja fue para el tiempo de espera de cama con instancia intrahospitalaria 4.67 ± 0.65. Hubo asociación estadística entre el tiempo de espera para signación de cama y de habitación R: 0.80, P: 0.001.
Conclusiones: La atención a los usuarios puede verse afectada por la presencia de nudos críticos los cuales son situaciones que afectan el correcto funcionamiento de procedimientos técnicos, operativos o gerenciales de una organización como el tiempo de espera para hospitalización y el tiempo de espera dentro de la institución para la asignación de cama.
From the Five Freedoms to a more holistic perspective on animal welfare in the Dutch Animals Act
Authors: Voogt Annika M. , Ursinus Winanda W. , Sijm Dick T. H. M. , Bongers Johan H.
Published: April 2023

One of the aims of the Dutch Animals Act is to protect animal welfare. The assumption that animal welfare risks are managed and mitigated by the Act, however, has not been studied before. The aim of this paper is to evaluate whether or not animal welfare risks can be managed adequately under the current Dutch Animals Act and what modifications to the legislation could improve animal welfare in the Netherlands. For that purpose, welfare consequences identified in various supply chain risk assessments from the Office of Risk Assessment & Research (BuRO) were assessed in conjunction with the Dutch Animals Act and related legislation. A distinction was made between means- and goal-oriented legislation. The current Dutch Animals Act uses the “Five Freedoms” to define animal welfare. However, this seems outdated, given that current scientific insight also indicates that positive experiences should be included as an integral part of animal welfare. Currently, most welfare consequences in supply chains are linked to factors that are regulated by Dutch legislation as qualitative, goal-oriented, open standards. Furthermore, there is no species-specific legislation for some of the most common farm animals in the Netherlands, e.g., dairy cattle. By applying the latest scientific insights, both the current Dutch Animals Act and associated legislation can be improved to more appropriately manage animal welfare risks. As suggestions for improvement, we propose that the definition of animal welfare in the Dutch Animals Act is updated, that species-specific legislation for farm animals is developed where not already applicable, and that animal-based measures (ABMs) are integrated into legislation. As amendments to animal welfare legislation at the European level are currently being developed, our proposals to include the most recent scientific insights in animal welfare legislation also hold for European legislators.
3D dynamic cultures of HGSOC organoids to model innovative and standard therapies
Authors: Cavarzerani Enrico , Caligiuri Isabella , Bartoletti Michele , Canzonieri Vincenzo , Rizzolio Flavio
Published: April 2023

High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) needs new technologies for improving cancer diagnosis and therapy. It is a fatal disease with few options for the patients. In this context, dynamic culture systems coupling with patient-derived cancer 3D microstructures could offer a new opportunity for exploring novel therapeutic approaches. In this study, we optimized a passive microfluidic platform with 3D cancer organoids, which allows a standardized approach among different patients, a minimum requirement of samples, multiple interrogations of biological events, and a rapid response. The passive flow was optimized to improve the growth of cancer organoids, avoiding the disruption of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Under optimized conditions of the OrganoFlow (tilting angle of 15° and an interval of rocking every 8 min), the cancer organoids grow faster than when they are in static conditions and the number of dead cells is reduced over time. To calculate the IC50 values of standard chemotherapeutic drugs (carboplatin, paclitaxel, and doxorubicin) and targeted drugs (ATRA), different approaches were utilized. Resazurin staining, ATP-based assay, and DAPI/PI colocalization assays were compared, and the IC50 values were calculated. The results showed that in the passive flow, the IC50 values are lower than in static conditions. FITC-labeled paclitaxel shows a better penetration of ECM under passive flow than in static conditions, and cancer organoids start to die after 48 h instead of 96 h, respectively. Cancer organoids are the last frontiers for ex vivo testing of drugs that replicate the response of patients in the clinic. For this study, organoids derived from ascites or tissues of patients with Ovarian Cancer have been used. In conclusion, it was possible to develop a protocol for organoid cultures in a passive microfluidic platform with a higher growth rate, faster drug response, and better penetration of drugs into ECM, maintaining the samples’ vitals and collecting the data on the same plate for up to 16 drugs.
Recent advances in optical aptasensors for biomarkers in early diagnosis and prognosis monitoring of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Dong Jia-Mei , Wang Rui-Qi , Yuan Ning-Ning , Guo Jia-Hao , Yu Xin-Yang , Peng Ang-Hui , Cai Jia-Yi , Xue Lei , Zhou Zhi-Ling , Sun Yi-Hao , Chen Ying-Yin
Published: April 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for approximately 90% of all primary liver cancers and is one of the main malignant tumor types globally. It is essential to develop rapid, ultrasensitive, and accurate strategies for the diagnosis and surveillance of HCC. In recent years, aptasensors have attracted particular attention owing to their high sensitivity, excellent selectivity, and low production costs. Optical analysis, as a potential analytical tool, offers the advantages of a wide range of targets, rapid response, and simple instrumentation. In this review, recent progress in several types of optical aptasensors for biomarkers in early diagnosis and prognosis monitoring of HCC is summarized. Furthermore, we evaluate the strengths and limitations of these sensors and discuss the challenges and future perspectives for their use in HCC diagnosis and surveillance.
Reduced levels of NGF shift astrocytes toward a neurotoxic phenotype
Authors: Tiberi Alexia , Carucci Nicola Maria , Testa Giovanna , Rizzi Caterina , Pacifico Paola , Borgonovo Giulia , Arisi Ivan , D’Onofrio Mara , Brandi Rossella , Gan Wen-Biao , Capsoni Simona , Cattaneo Antonino
Published: April 2023

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is critical for neuronal physiology during development and adulthood. Despite the well-recognized effect of NGF on neurons, less is known about whether NGF can actually affect other cell types in the central nervous system (CNS). In this work, we show that astrocytes are susceptible to changes in ambient levels of NGF. First, we observe that interfering with NGF signaling in vivo via the constitutive expression of an antiNGF antibody induces astrocytic atrophy. A similar asthenic phenotype is encountered in an uncleavable proNGF transgenic mouse model (TgproNGF#72), effectively increasing the brain proNGF levels. To examine whether this effect on astrocytes is cell-autonomous, we cultured wild-type primary astrocytes in the presence of antiNGF antibodies, uncovering that a short incubation period is sufficient to potently and rapidly trigger calcium oscillations. Acute induction of calcium oscillations by antiNGF antibodies is followed by progressive morphological changes similar to those observed in antiNGF AD11 mice. Conversely, incubation with mature NGF has no effect on either calcium activity nor on astrocytic morphology. At longer timescales, transcriptomic analysis revealed that NGF-deprived astrocytes acquire a proinflammatory profile. In particular, antiNGF-treated astrocytes show upregulation of neurotoxic transcripts and downregulation of neuroprotective mRNAs. Consistent with that data, culturing wild-type neurons in the presence of NGF-deprived astrocytes leads to neuronal cell death. Finally, we report that in both awake and anesthetized mice, astrocytes in layer I of the motor cortex respond with an increase in calcium activity to acute NGF inhibition using either NGF-neutralizing antibodies or a TrkA-Fc NGF scavenger. Moreover, in vivo calcium imaging in the cortex of the 5xFAD neurodegeneration mouse model shows an increased level of spontaneous calcium activity in astrocytes, which is significantly reduced after acute administration of NGF. In conclusion, we unveil a novel neurotoxic mechanism driven by astrocytes, triggered by their sensing and reacting to changes in the levels of ambient NGF.
The mechanism of chronic intracellular infection with Brucella spp.
Authors: Guo Xiaoyi , Zeng Hui , Li Mengjuan , Xiao Yu , Gu Guojing , Song Zhenhui , Shuai Xuehong , Guo Jianhua , Huang Qingzhou , Zhou Bo , Chu Yuefeng , Jiao Hanwei
Published: April 2023

Globally, brucellosis is a widespread zoonotic disease. It is prevalent in more than 170 countries and regions. It mostly damages an animal’s reproductive system and causes extreme economic losses to the animal husbandry industry. Once inside cells, Brucella resides in a vacuole, designated the BCV, which interacts with components of the endocytic and secretory pathways to ensure bacterial survival. Numerous studies conducted recently have revealed that Brucella’s ability to cause a chronic infection depends on how it interacts with the host. This paper describes the immune system, apoptosis, and metabolic control of host cells as part of the mechanism of Brucella survival in host cells. Brucella contributes to both the body’s non-specific and specific immunity during chronic infection, and it can aid in its survival by causing the body’s immune system to become suppressed. In addition, Brucella regulates apoptosis to avoid being detected by the host immune system. The BvrR/BvrS, VjbR, BlxR, and BPE123 proteins enable Brucella to fine-tune its metabolism while also ensuring its survival and replication and improving its ability to adapt to the intracellular environment.
Characterizing the microbiota of cleft lip and palate patients: a comprehensive review
Authors: Gershater Elizabeth , Liu Yuan , Xue Binglan , Shin Min Kyung , Koo Hyun , Zheng Zhong , Li Chenshuang
Published: April 2023

Orofacial cleft disorders, including cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P), are one of the most frequently-occurring congenital disorders worldwide. The health issues of patients with CL/P encompass far more than just their anatomic anomaly, as patients with CL/P are prone to having a high incidence of infectious diseases. While it has been previously established that the oral microbiome of patients with CL/P differs from that of unaffected patients, the exact nature of this variance, including the relevant bacterial species, has not been fully elucidated; likewise, examination of anatomic locations besides the cleft site has been neglected. Here, we intended to provide a comprehensive review to highlight the significant microbiota differences between CL/P patients and healthy subjects in various anatomic locations, including the teeth inside and adjacent to the cleft, oral cavity, nasal cavity, pharynx, and ear, as well as bodily fluids, secretions, and excretions. A number of bacterial and fungal species that have been proven to be pathogenic were found to be prevalently and/or specifically detected in CL/P patients, which can benefit the development of CL/P-specific microbiota management strategies.
School inclusion of children with disabilities in Mozambique: The teachers’ perspective
Authors: Franco Vitor
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The inclusion of children with special needs is one of the biggest challenges faced by educational systems around the world, corresponding to the UNICEF Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. This process is even more complex process in low-income countries, where the entire education system has significant insufficiencies and support for families with children with disabilities is limited. This present study aims to chart the challenge of implementing inclusive education in Mozambique. Its main objective is to sound the perspectives and expectations of teachers about the education for children with disabilities in their country: (a) its advantages and suitability, (b) needs, obstacles, and difficulties, and (c) resources, practices and strategies already used.

Methods

A qualitative approach was used, with 40 teachers participating in three focus group, submitted later to a content analysis.

Results

The results denote the value and importance of moving toward greater inclusion of children with disabilities in Mozambique and increased awareness among teaching staff to uphold the basic right to education, although the conception of inclusion as a distinct special education subsists.

Discussion

Teachers identify multiple needs and difficulties in terms of equipment, resources, and practices, and recognize a path that must be continued for inclusion to take place, namely with regard to inclusive public policies and the need for major investment and change in the level of teacher training, which is central to educational transformation.
Add-on effect of the Guizhi Fuling formula for management of reduced fertility potential in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Rong Anna , Ta Na , E. Lihua , Meng Wenbin
Published: April 2023

Background

Guizhi Fuling (GZFL) pill, a traditional Chinese herbal formula including Semen Persicae, Ramulus Cinnamomi, Poria, Radix Paeoniae Alba, and Cortex Moutan, has been widely applied in the management of gynecological diseases.

Objective

To evaluate the add-on effect of the GZFL formula for treating reduced fertility potential in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Two reviewers independently searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, SinoMed, and CKNI databases until 09/11/2022. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the GZFL formula plus Western medicine versus the Western medicine for treating PCOS. The primary endpoint was the ovulation, pregnancy, and miscarriage rate. The secondary endpoints included the serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).

Results

There were 16 RCTs with 1,385 patients identified. The GZFL formula plus Western medicine significantly improved the ovulation rate (risk ratios [RR] 1.24; 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.15–1.34) and pregnancy rate (RR 1.53; 95% CI 1.38 to 1.69) than the Western medicine alone. Adjuvant treatment with the GZFL formula also significantly decreased the serum FSH (mean difference [MD] -0.48 U/l; 95% CI -0.80 to -0.15), total testosterone (standard mean difference [SMD] -1.07; 95% CI -1.71 to -0.44), LH level (MD -2.19 U/l; 95% CI -3.04 to -1.34), and HOMA-IR (MD -0.47; 95% CI -0.60 to -0.34). However, there was no significant difference in the miscarriage rate (RR 0.89; 95% CI 0.36–2.20) and serum estradiol level (SMD 0.34; 95% CI -0.25 to 0.94) between two groups.

Conclusions

The GZFL formula as adjuvant therapy can improve the ovulation and pregnancy rates in women with PCOS. Its beneficial effects may correlate with reducing FSH, total testosterone, and LH and ameliorating insulin resistance. However, more well-designed RCTs with larger samples and multicenter trials are required to confirm the current findings due to uncertainty of the evidence.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO identifier, CRD42022354530.
Deep learning radiomics model based on breast ultrasound video to predict HER2 expression status
Authors: Quan Meng-Yao , Huang Yun-Xia , Wang Chang-Yan , Zhang Qi , Chang Cai , Zhou Shi-Chong
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The detection of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression status is essential to determining the chemotherapy regimen for breast cancer patients and to improving their prognosis. We developed a deep learning radiomics (DLR) model combining time-frequency domain features of ultrasound (US) video of breast lesions with clinical parameters for predicting HER2 expression status.

Patients and Methods

Data for this research was obtained from 807 breast cancer patients who visited from February 2019 to July 2020. Ultimately, 445 patients were included in the study. Pre-operative breast ultrasound examination videos were collected and split into a training set and a test set. Building a training set of DLR models combining time-frequency domain features and clinical features of ultrasound video of breast lesions based on the training set data to predict HER2 expression status. Test the performance of the model using test set data. The final models integrated with different classifiers are compared, and the best performing model is finally selected.

Results

The best diagnostic performance in predicting HER2 expression status is provided by an Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost)-based time-frequency domain feature classifier combined with a logistic regression (LR)-based clinical parameter classifier of clinical parameters combined DLR, particularly with a high specificity of 0.917. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for the test cohort was 0.810.

Conclusion

Our study provides a non-invasive imaging biomarker to predict HER2 expression status in breast cancer patients.
Genetically predicted alterations in thyroid function are associated with the risk of benign prostatic disease
Authors: Huang Yan , Chen Cheng , Zhou Wanqing , Zhang Qian , Zhao Yanfei , He Dehao , Ye Zhi , Xia Pingping
Published: April 2023

Background

Benign prostatic diseases (BPDs), such as benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis, harm the quality of life of affected patients. However, observational studies exploring the association between thyroid function and BPDs have hitherto yielded inconsistent results. In this study, we explored whether there is a causal genetic association between them using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods

We used publicly available summary statistics from the Thyroidomics Consortium and 23andMe on thyrotropin (TSH; 54,288 participants), thyroxine [free tetraiodothyronine (FT4); 49,269 participants], subclinical hypothyroidism (3,440 cases and 49,983 controls), overt hypothyroidism (8,000 cases and 117,000 controls), and subclinical hyperthyroidism (1,840 cases and 49,983 controls) to screen for instrumental variables of thyroid function. Results for BPD such as prostatic hyperplasia (13,118 cases and 72,799 controls) and prostatitis (1,859 cases and 72,799 controls) were obtained from the FinnGen study. The causal relationship between thyroid function and BPD was primarily assessed using MR with an inverse variance weighted approach. In addition, sensitivity analyses were performed to test the robustness of the results.

Results

We found that TSH [OR (95% CI) = 0.912(0.845-0.984), p =1.8 x 10-2], subclinical hypothyroidism [OR (95% CI) = 0.864(0.810-0.922), p =1.04 x 10-5], and overt hypothyroidism [OR (95% CI) = 0.885 (0.831-0. 944), p =2 x 10-4] had a significant effect on genetic susceptibility to BPH, unlike hyperthyroidism [OR (95% CI) = 1.049(0.990-1.111), p =1.05 x 10-1] and FT4 [OR (95% CI) = 0.979(0.857-1.119), p = 7.59 x 10-1] had no effect. We also found that TSH [OR (95% CI) =0.823(0.700-0.967), p = 1.8 x 10-2] and overt hypothyroidism [OR (95% CI) = 0.853(0.730-0.997), p = 4.6 x 10-2] significantly influenced the prostatitis, whereas FT4 levels [OR (95% CI) = 1.141(0.901-1.444), p = 2.75 x 10-1], subclinical hypothyroidism [OR (95% CI) =0. 897(0.784- 1.026), p = 1.12 x 10-1], and hyperthyroidism [OR (95% CI) = 1.069(0.947-1.206), p = 2.79 x 10-1] did not have a significant effect.

Conclusion

Overall, our study results suggest that hypothyroidism and TSH levels influence the risk of genetically predicted BPH and prostatitis, providing new insights into the causal relationship between thyroid function and BPD.
AVP deficiency (central diabetes insipidus) following immunization with anti-COVID-19 BNT162b2 Comirnaty vaccine in adolescents: A case report
Authors: Partenope Cristina , Pedranzini Quincy , Petri Antonella , Rabbone Ivana , Prodam Flavia , Bellone Simonetta
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has prompted the development of new vaccines to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease. Recognition and report of potential adverse effects of these novel vaccines (especially the urgent and life-threatening ones) is therefore essential.

Case presentation

A 16-year-old boy presented to the Paediatric Emergency Department with polyuria, polydipsia and weight loss over the last four months. His past medical history was unremarkable. Onset of symptoms was referred to be few days after first dose of anti-COVID-19 BNT162b2 Comirnaty vaccine and then worsened after the second dose. The physical exam was normal, without neurological abnormalities. Auxological parameters were within normal limits. Daily fluid balance monitoring confirmed polyuria and polydipsia. Biochemistry laboratory analysis and urine culture were normal. Serum osmolality was 297 mOsm/Kg H2O (285-305), whereas urine osmolality was 80 mOsm/Kg H2O (100-1100), suggesting diabetes insipidus. Anterior pituitary function was preserved. Since parents refused to give consent to water deprivation test, treatment with Desmopressin was administered and confirmed ex juvantibus diagnosis of AVP deficiency (or central diabetes insipidus). Brain MRI revealed pituitary stalk thickening (4 mm) with contrast enhancement, and loss of posterior pituitary bright spot on T1 weighted imaging. Those signs were consistent with neuroinfundibulohypophysitis. Immunoglobulin levels were normal. Low doses of oral Desmopressin were sufficient to control patient’s symptoms, normalizing serum and urinary osmolality values and daily fluid balance at discharge. Brain MRI after 2 months showed stable thicken pituitary stalk and still undetectable posterior pituitary. Due to persistence of polyuria and polydipsia, therapy with Desmopressin was adjusted by increasing dosage and number of daily administrations. Clinical and neuroradiological follow-up is still ongoing.

Conclusion

Hypophysitis is a rare disorder characterized by lymphocytic, granulomatous, plasmacytic, or xanthomatous infiltration of the pituitary gland and stalk. Common manifestations are headache, hypopituitarism, and diabetes insipidus. To date, only time correlation between SARS-CoV-2 infection and development of hypophysitis and subsequent hypopituitarism has been reported. Further studies will be needed to deepen a possible causal link between anti-COVID-19 vaccine and AVP deficiency.
Nuclear data uncertainty quantification on PWR spent nuclear fuel as a function of burnup
Authors: Grimaldi Federico , Romojaro Pablo , Fiorito Luca , Belfiore Enrica , Bruggeman Christophe , Dulla Sandra
Published: April 2023

Nuclear data uncertainty analysis on the spent nuclear fuel inventory was performed on the Takahama-3 NT3G23 assembly, where the sample SF95-4 was irradiated up to a burnup of approximately 36GWdtaccording to the SFCOMPO benchmark. The cross-section covariance matrices stored in the ENDF/B-VIII.0, JEFF-3.3 and JENDL-4.0u evaluated nuclear data libraries were propagated with the stochastic sampling algorithms implemented in the SANDY code. A comparison of the concentration uncertainty differences obtained using data from the three libraries is reported. Similarities were found with the fuel composition uncertainty results obtained for the Calvert Cliffs MKP109 sample P SFCOMPO benchmark. Such a similarity was also found when comparing concentration uncertainties along the sample irradiation. Therefore, the main contributors to the concentration uncertainty of a number of nuclides were identified at different burnup levels in the two samples. To complement the similarity analysis, a correlation study of the concentration distributions predicted by the two models was performed. The reported results hint a dominance of the common uncertainty propagation mechanisms over the model differences in the determination of concentration uncertainty.
A global spatial-temporal land use regression model for nitrogen dioxide air pollution
Authors: Larkin Andrew , Anenberg Susan , Goldberg Daniel L. , Mohegh Arash , Brauer Michael , Hystad Perry
Published: April 2023

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) recently revised its health guidelines for Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) air pollution, reducing the annual mean NO2 level to 10 μg/m3 (5.3 ppb) and the 24-h mean to 25 μg/m3 (13.3 ppb). NO2 is a pollutant of global concern, but it is also a criteria air pollutant that varies spatiotemporally at fine resolutions due to its relatively short lifetime (~hours). Current models have limited ability to capture both temporal and spatial NO2 variation and none are available with global coverage. Land use regression (LUR) models that incorporate timevarying predictors (e.g., meteorology and satellite NO2 measures) and land use characteristics (e.g., road density, emission sources) have significant potential to address this need.

Methods: We created a daily Land use regression model with 50 × 50 m2 spatial resolution using 5.7 million daily air monitor averages collected from 8,250 monitor locations.

Results: In cross-validation, the model captured 47%, 59%, and 63% of daily, monthly, and annual global NO2 variation. Daily, monthly, and annual root mean square error were 6.8, 5.0, and 4.4 ppb and absolute bias were 46%, 30%, and 21%, respectively. The final model has 11 variables, including road density and built environments with fine (30 m or less) spatial resolution and meteorological and satellite data with daily temporal resolution. Major roads and satellite-based estimates of NO2 were consistently the strongest predictors of NO2 measurements in all regions.

Discussion: Daily model estimates from 2005–2019 are available and can be used for global risk assessments and health studies, particularly in countries without NO2 monitoring.
Executive compensation stickiness and ESG performance: The role of digital transformation
Authors: Chen Lifeng , Mao Chuanmei , Gao Yuying
Published: April 2023

A growing number of institutional investors have realized that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance has become financial in the long run, but the implementation of ESG approaches at the enterprise’s executive level remains insufficient. Furthermore, urgent attention needs to be paid to the full application of digital solutions for resource allocation and sustainable development. We have directed this research interest toward searching for potential approaches to sustainable digital transformation for the environment. Encouraged by the asymmetric effect between executive compensation stickiness (ECS) and ESG goals, executives are more willing to improve the ESG indices by digital transformation (DT) activities. This study employs 18,098 observations from Chinese A-share listed companies to examine the impact of ECS on ESG indicators. Our results show that ECS can significantly improve the ESG scores, whereas DT played a partial mediating role within this promotion. We further examined this relationship by the bootstrap and Sobel methods and found that all empirical results are robust and credible. Our findings provide more practical enlightenment at the management aspect for improving environmental performance through digital transformation.
Genomic analysis of matrix metalloproteinases affecting the prognosis and immunogenic profile of gastric cancer
Authors: Yuan Chaofeng , Yuan Jialin , Xiao Huijie , Li Haitao , Jiang Yang , Zhai Rongnan , Zhai Jinjing , Xing Hua , Huang Jiannan
Published: April 2023

This study systematically and comprehensively analyzed the characteristics of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in gastric cancer (GC) and revealed the relationship between MMPs and prognoses, clinicopathological features, tumor microenvironment, gene mutations, and drug therapy response in patients with GC. Based on the mRNA expression profiles of 45 MMP-related genes in GC, we established a model that classified GC patients into three groups based on cluster analysis of the mRNA expression profiles. The 3 groups of GC patients showed significantly different prognoses as well as tumor microenvironmental characteristics. Next, we used Boruta’s algorithm and PCA method to establish an MMP scoring system and found that lower MMP scores were associated with better prognoses, lower clinical stages, better immune cell infiltration, lower degrees of immune dysfunction and rejection, and more genetic mutations. Whereas a high MMP score was the opposite. These observations were further validated with data from other datasets, showing the robustness of our MMP scoring system. Overall, MMP could be involved in the tumor microenvironment (TME), clinical features, and prognosis of GC. An in-depth study of MMP patterns can better understand the indispensable role of MMP in the development of GC and reasonably assess the survival prognosis, clinicopathological features, and drug efficacy of different patients, thus providing clinicians with a broader vision of GC progression and treatment.
Using landscape genomics to assess local adaptation and genomic vulnerability of a perennial herb Tetrastigma hemsleyanum (Vitaceae) in subtropical China
Authors: Wang Yihan , Zhang Lin , Zhou Yuchao , Ma Wenxin , Li Manyu , Guo Peng , Feng Li , Fu Chengxin
Published: April 2023

Understanding adaptive genetic variation of plant populations and their vulnerabilities to climate change are critical to preserve biodiversity and subsequent management interventions. To this end, landscape genomics may represent a cost-efficient approach for investigating molecular signatures underlying local adaptation. Tetrastigma hemsleyanum is, in its native habitat, a widespread perennial herb of warm-temperate evergreen forest in subtropical China. Its ecological and medicinal values constitute a significant revenue for local human populations and ecosystem. Using 30,252 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived from reduced-representation genome sequencing in 156 samples from 24 sites, we conducted a landscape genomics study of the T. hemsleyanum to elucidate its genomic variation across multiple climate gradients and genomic vulnerability to future climate change. Multivariate methods identified that climatic variation explained more genomic variation than that of geographical distance, which implied that local adaptation to heterogeneous environment might represent an important source of genomic variation. Among these climate variables, winter precipitation was the strongest predictor of the contemporary genetic structure. FST outlier tests and environment association analysis totally identified 275 candidate adaptive SNPs along the genetic and environmental gradients. SNP annotations of these putatively adaptive loci uncovered gene functions associated with modulating flowering time and regulating plant response to abiotic stresses, which have implications for breeding and other special agricultural aims on the basis of these selection signatures. Critically, modelling revealed that the high genomic vulnerability of our focal species via a mismatch between current and future genotype-environment relationships located in central-northern region of the T. hemsleyanum’s range, where populations require proactive management efforts such as assistant adaptation to cope with ongoing climate change. Taken together, our results provide robust evidence of local climate adaption for T. hemsleyanum and further deepen our understanding of adaptation basis of herbs in subtropical China.
Patient attitudes and preferences about expanded noninvasive prenatal testing
Authors: Dubois Marie-Line , Winters Patricia D. , Rodrigue Marc-André , Gekas Jean
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) using cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is typically carried out to screen for common fetal chromosomal anomalies, with the option to screen for a wider range of chromosomal changes (expanded NIPT) becoming increasingly available. However, little is known about pregnant patients’ attitudes and preferences regarding expanded NIPT.

Methods: To address this gap, we surveyed general-risk patients having first-tier cfDNA screening at a private prenatal clinic on their expectations for expanded NIPT. Patients were asked questions regarding their current pregnancy and previous pregnancy history, their opinions on fetal DNA screenings during pregnancy and incidental findings, information and opinions on financial resources for NIPT, as well as socio-cultural questions to determine patient demographics.

Results: Of the 200 survey participants, the majority were educated, self-reported as white, had a higher than average income, and reported no aneuploidy risk factors. When asked what information they would like to receive from cfDNA screening, the vast majority of participants wanted all information available that could have an immediate impact on fetal health (88%) or an immediate impact on infant health from birth (82%). Many participants also wanted information that could have a future impact on the child’s health or an immediate or future impact on the pregnant woman’s own health. Most participants wanted information about the sex of fetus (86%) and common trisomies (71%), with almost half of participants desiring information about rare autosomal aneuploidies and/or all genetic information that may affect the baby. In addition, participants were found to be comfortable screening for conditions that are well-known, influence care during pregnancy, and are treatable. Finally, while most respondents either had insurance coverage for NIPT or were able to afford NIPT out of pocket, the majority of our participants felt that expanded NIPT should be either free for everyone or for those considered high risk.

Discussion: Our findings suggest that with appropriate pre-test counseling, pregnant patients may choose NIPT for an expanding list of conditions.
Identification of gut dysbiosis in axial spondyloarthritis patients and improvement of experimental ankylosing spondyloarthritis by microbiome-derived butyrate with immune-modulating function
Authors: Min Hong Ki , Na Hyun Sik , Jhun JooYeon , Lee Seon-Yeong , Choi Sun Shim , Park Go Eun , Lee Jeong Su , Um In Gyu , Lee Seung Yoon , Seo Hochan , Shin Tae-Seop , Kim Yoon-Keun , Lee Jennifer Jooha , Kwok Seung-Ki , Cho Mi-La , Park Sung-Hwan
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Dysbiosis is an environmental factor that affects the induction of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) pathogenesis. In the present study, we investigated differences in the gut microbiota of patients with axSpA and revealed an association between specific gut microbiota and their metabolites, and SpA pathogenesis.

Method

Using 16S rRNA sequencing data derived from feces samples of 33 axSpA patients and 20 healthy controls (HCs), we examined the compositions of their gut microbiomes.

Results

As a result, axSpA patients were found to have decreased α-diversity compared to HCs, indicating that axSpA patients have less diverse microbiomes. In particular, at the species level, Bacteroides and Streptococcus were more abundant in axSpA patients than in HCs, whereas Faecalibacterium (F). prausnitzii, a butyrate-producing bacteria, was more abundant in HCs. Thus, we decided to investigate whether F. prausnitzii was associated with health conditions by inoculating F. prausnitzii (0.1, 1, and 10 μg/mL) or by administrating butyrate (0.5 mM) into CD4+ T cells derived from axSpA patients. The levels of IL-17A and IL-10 in the CD4+ T cell culture media were then measured. We also assessed osteoclast formation by administrating butyrate to the axSpA-derived peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The CD4+ IL-17A+ T cell differentiation, IL-17A levels were decreased, whereas IL-10 was increased by F. prausnitzii inoculation. Butyrate reduced CD4+ IL-17A+ T cell differentiation and osteoclastogenesis.

Discussion

We found that CD4+ IL-17A+ T cell polarization was reduced, when F. prausnitzii or butyrate were introduced into curdlan-induced SpA mice or CD4+ T cells of axSpA patient. Consistently, butyrate treatment was associated with the reduction of arthritis scores and inflammation levels in SpA mice. Taken together, we concluded that the reduced abundance of butyrate-producing microbes, particularly F. prausnitzii, may be associated with axSpA pathogenesis.
Signaling pathways of oxidative stress response: the potential therapeutic targets in gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Yingying , Shi Yu , Han Ruiqin , Liu Chaoge , Qin Xiaogang , Li Pengfei , Gu Renjun
Published: April 2023

Gastric cancer is one of the top causes of cancer-related death globally. Although novel treatment strategies have been developed, attempts to eradicate gastric cancer have been proven insufficient. Oxidative stress is continually produced and continually present in the human body. Increasing evidences show that oxidative stress contributes significantly to the development of gastric cancer, either through initiation, promotion, and progression of cancer cells or causing cell death. As a result, the purpose of this article is to review the role of oxidative stress response and the subsequent signaling pathways as well as potential oxidative stress-related therapeutic targets in gastric cancer. Understanding the pathophysiology of gastric cancer and developing new therapies for gastric cancer depends on more researches focusing on the potential contributors to oxidative stress and gastric carcinogenesis.
Identification and characterization of Toll-like receptor 14d in Northeast Chinese lamprey (Lethenteron morii)
Authors: Zhou Zebin , Ding Shaoqing , Wang Yaqian , Ren Janfeng , Zhang Xiangyang , Li Weiming , Zhang Qinghua
Published: April 2023

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in innate immunity of defense against bacterial or viral pathogens. To study the biological characteristics and functions of the TLR genes, TLR14d was identified from Northeast Chinese lamprey (Lethenteron morii) and named LmTLR14d. LmTLR14d coding sequence (cds) is 3285 bp in length and encodes 1094 amino acids (aa). The results showed that LmTLR14d has the typical structure of TLR molecule, which contains the extracellular domain of leucine-rich repeats (LRR), transmembrane domain, and intracellular domain of Toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR). The phylogenetic tree showed that LmTLR14d is a homologous gene of TLR14/18 in bony fish. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) revealed that LmTLR14d was expressed in various healthy tissues, including immune and non-immune tissues. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection up-regulated LmTLR14d in the supraneural body (SB), gill, and kidney tissues of infected Northeast Chinese lamprey. Immunofluorescence results showed that LmTLR14d was located in the cytoplasm of HEK 293T cells in clusters, and its subcellular localization was determined by the TIR domain. The immunoprecipitation results showed that LmTLR14d could recruit L.morii MyD88 (LmMyD88) but not L.morii TRIF (LmTRIF). Dual luciferase reporter results showed that LmTLR14d significantly enhanced the activity of L.morii NF-κβ (LmNF-κβ) promoter. Furthermore, co-transfection of LmTLR14d with MyD88 significantly enhanced the L.morii NF-κβ (LmNF-κβ) promoter activity. LmTLR14d can induce the expression of inflammatory cytokine genes il-6 and tnf-α downstream of NF-κB signal. This study suggested that LmTLR14d might play an important role in the innate immune signal transduction process of lamprey and revealed the origin and function of teleost-specific TLR14.