bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supervivencia y factores asociados en pacientes con cáncer cervicouterino atendidas por el Seguro Popular en México
Authors: Torreglosa-Hernández Sindy , Grisales-Romero Hugo , Morales-Carmona Evangelina , Hernández-Ávila Juan Eugenio , Huerta-Gutiérrez Rodrigo , Barquet-Muñoz Salim Abraham , Palacio-Mejía Lina Sofía
Published: April 2022

Objetivo. Estimar la supervivencia a cinco años por cáncer cervicouterino y sus factores asociados en pacientes mexica­nas, cuya atención fue financiada por el Fondo de Protección contra Gastos Catastróficos (FPGC) del Seguro Popular durante el periodo 2006-2014. Material y métodos. Se analizó la base de datos de las pacientes mencionadas y se vinculó con el Subsistema Epidemiológico y Estadístico de Defunciones. Se hizo un análisis de supervivencia a cinco años por etapa clínica y factores asociados, mediante el método de Kaplan-Meier y los modelos de riesgos proporcionales de Cox. Resultados. La supervivencia global por cáncer cervicouterino a los cinco años fue de 68.5%. Los factores asociados fueron la etapa clínica (locoregional [HR=2.8 IC95% HR: 2.6,3.0] y metastásica [HR=5.4 IC95% HR: 4.9,5.9]) com­parada con la etapa temprana y la edad (HR=1.003 IC95% HR:1.001,1.004). Conclusiones. Las mujeres que lograron el acceso a la atención del cáncer cervical financiadas por el FPGC tuvieron una supervivencia ligeramente superior a las reportadas en otros estudios.
Enjuagues antisépticos bucales como medida de control frente a la trasmisión de SARS-CoV-2 en la atención odontológica
Authors: Lomelí-Martínez Sarah M , Gómez-Sandoval Juan R
Published: April 2022

No disponible
Developing and pilot testing an oral health screening tool for diabetes care providers
Authors: George Ajesh , Poudel Prakash , Kong Ariana , Villarosa Amy , Calache Hanny , Arora Amit , Griffiths Rhonda , Wong Vincent , Gussy Mark , Martin Rachel E , Lau Phyllis
Published: April 2022

BackgroundPeople with poorly managed diabetes are at greater risk of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease that is not effectively managed can affect glycaemic levels. Diabetes care providers, including general practitioners and diabetes educators, are encouraged to promote oral health of their clients. However, valid and reliable oral health screening tools that assess the risk of poor oral health, that are easy to administer among non-dental professionals, currently do not exist. Existing screening tools are difficult to incorporate into routine diabetes consultations due to their length. Thus, this study aimed to develop and pilot a short oral health screening tool that would identify risk of existing oral diseases and encourage appropriate referrals to the dental service.MethodsA three-item screening tool was developed after a comprehensive review of the literature and consensus from an expert panel. The tool was then piloted as part of a larger cross-sectional survey of 260 adults with diabetes who were accessing public diabetes clinics at two locations in Sydney, Australia. As part of the survey, participants completed the three-item screening tool and a 14-item validated tool, the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14), which has been used previously in the preliminary validation of screening tools. Sensitivity and specificity analyses were then undertaken comparing the results of the two tools. ResultsA statistically significant correlation was found between the shorter screening tool and the OHIP-14 (rho=0.453, p<0.001), indicating adequate validity. The three-item tool had high sensitivity (90.5%, 95% CI 84.9%, 94.7%), with a specificity of 46.3% (95% CI 37.7%, 55.2%). The negative predictive value was 81.4 % (95% CI 71.3, 89.3). No single item performed as well regarding sensitivity and negative predictive value when compared to the three items collectively.ConclusionsThe three-item screening tool developed was found to be valid and sensitive in identifying risk of poor oral health, requiring oral health referrals, among people with diabetes in this pilot. This is a simple, accessible tool that diabetes care providers could incorporate into their routine consultations. Further validation against comprehensive dental assessments is needed to reassess the tool’s specificity and sensitivity in diverse settings.
A Fatal Case of Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome Caused By Genotype Emm1 In The Third Trimester of Pregnancy, China
Authors: Luo Yasha , Zheng Minling , Chen Yanyuan , Gu Chunming , Lv Lijuan , Mu Xiaoping
Published: April 2022

Background: Group A streptococcal (GAS) toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare invasive disease, causing a high risk of maternal and fetal mortality during pregnancy. We report a fatal case of a female caused by GAS-TSS in the third trimester of pregnancy in Guangzhou, China. Case presentation: The patient is a 33-year-old female who presented at 37 weeks’ gestation with a history of three hours fever. The patient underwent an early onset and rapid progression with dramatic clinical picture and laboratory characters within 24 hours. The neonate survived after an aggressive anti-infection treatment.The GAS strains were isolated from two bottles of blood cultures and airway secretion culture, which confirmed as Streptococcus pyogenes associated with genotype emm1 by molecular analysis.Conclusion: Dramatic clinical picture and laboratory characters of the pregnant woman presented here might help improve clinicians' awareness and recognition of Streptococcus pyogenes, which could be of great importance for the early diagnosis of GAS- TSS in pregnancy.
Study of Creep Settlement of Driven H-piles in Loading Tests
Authors: Lam Joley , Pak Kenneth , Li Victor
Published: April 2022

In Hong Kong, the maximum test load is required to be maintained constant for 72 hours during loading tests of piles according to the loading test procedures in the Code of Practice for Foundations 2017. Such a long duration of maintained loading is uncommon in pile loading tests overseas. In the paper, the behaviour of driven H-piles under maintained loading will be studied using creep settlements measured during the 72 hours of maintained loading of piles from various sites in Hong Kong. The reason for such a long period of maintained loading is not discussed in the literature. The paper aims to address the more fundamental issues of (a) usefulness of maintained loading if any, (b) whether it is meaningful to conduct maintained loading at peak test load and (b) whether the period of maintained loading can be reduced the time needed for loading test.
A Study of Heaving Material Resulted from Deep Cement Mixing Construction
Authors: Chen Jian , Chen L. Tony , Chan Yuen Ping
Published: April 2022

The deep cement mixing (DCM) method has been used to form foundations for some of the marine structures in Hong Kong. Injection of cementitious slurry into the seabed will inevitably cause the seabed to rise, resulting in a raised soil-and-cement mixture above the top of DCM clusters, which is referred to as heaving material in this paper. The amount and characteristics of heaving material are influenced by several factors such as soil type, improvement depth and area ratio, cement-water ratio, cement injection pressure and workmanship. Due to its weaker strength, heaving material is conventionally dredged to avoid forming a weak layer in the DCM foundation. This paper aims to investigate how to retain heaving material in the DCM foundation system to avoid both causing pollution and incurring additional costs due to dredging. It has four objectives, namely: firstly, to study its formation mechanism; secondly, to investigate its shear strength characteristics, through the results of various lab and in-situ tests; thirdly, to discuss design and construction considerations concerning heaving material; and finally, to discuss the results of a full scale test involving heaving material. It is shown that heaving material may be retained provided it can meet design requirements.
A Comparison of Empirical and Numerical Approaches for Estimating Rock Support Pressure on Permanent Tunnel Lining
Authors: To Franklin K.L.
Published: April 2022

In Hong Kong, the rock support pressure acting on the permanent tunnel lining is usually estimated using the empirical equations by Terzaghi's rock arching theory (1946) and Grimstad & Barton’s Q support pressure (1993). However, with the advanced technologies, the assumptions behind these studies may become too conservative and subsequently lead to high construction cost and time. According to the Geoguide 4 (2018 Edition), it is suggested that the rock support pressure should be estimated either by an empirical method or an analytical/numerical assessment. By establishing different comparison models, this paper investigates the difference in estimated rock support pressure acting on the permanent lining using empirical approaches and finite element modelling. The influence of missing parameters in empirical equations and the rock mass behavior around the excavation profile are also studied.
Intersection-Based Potential Plane Failure Detection on 3D Meshes for Rock Slopes
Authors: Tsui R. , Cheung C. , Hart J. , Hou W. , Ng A.
Published: April 2022

Plane failure, a major class of rock block failures, will be considered kinematically feasible on a rock discontinuity if it fulfills certain criteria when plotted and analysed on a stereonet. However, it is often the case that this approach does not consider if a block is present above the discontinuity. With significant advances in digital surveying techniques in recent years, high-resolution 3D meshes can be readily produced for rock slope stability assessments. A semi-automatic, intersection-based approach has been developed by the authors to detect potentially adverse planar discontinuities and their intersections with planar blocks on 3D meshes. The approach involves the detection of the necessary geometrical conditions for a rock block located above a planar discontinuity and in a potentially detachable condition.
Effectiveness of Cross-Walls in Reducing Wall Deflections in Deep Excavations
Authors: Wong L. W. , Hwang R. N.
Published: April 2022

Three cross-walls were installed to brace the diaphragm walls prior to excavation for a cross-over tunnel of the Taipei Metro in front of the South Gate of the old Taipei City and has now been a National Heritage. The tunnel had the maximum excavation depth of 20.1 m. Three-dimensional finite element analyses have been performed to evaluate the effectiveness and the influence of the cross-walls in reducing the wall deflections. The nonlinear Hardening-Soil model has been adopted in the analyses. The results of the analyses indicate that the maximum wall deflections are much reduced as a result and the effectiveness of cross-walls is thus proved.
An Innovative Design of Retaining Wall in Lung Shan Tunnel Construction
Authors: Choi Kelvin Y.M. , Li Victor , Tam Alan Y.S.
Published: April 2022

The Heung Yuen Wai Highway opened on 26 May 2019. The 4.8km Lung Shan Tunnel, as one of the main sections of the Heung Yuen Wai Highway, is the longest land-based road tunnel in Hong Kong. It was a success after 5 years of efforts by the project team. Most of tunnel excavation commenced at its Northern Portal near Princess Hill where a mega-sized tunnel boring machine was launched. The original design of the Northern Portal required 3m diameter bored pile walls for supporting a slope cutting to reach the invert level of the tunnel. Early completion of the portion formation works would be essential to accelerating the overall construction programme for the project. An innovative design involving composite retaining walls and gravity wall with sloping wall backs was proposed to replace the bored pile walls to enhance the programme and improve works quality. The composite wall involved installation of a soldier pile wall temporarily supported by tie-backs. Upon reaching the final excavation level, the soldier pile wall was integrated with a reversed L-shaped R.C. wall to form a permanent composite wall with a maximum retaining height of 29.33m under the temporary stage and 20.975m under the permanent stage for supporting the cut slope behind the wall.
Digital Twin for Geotechnical Engineering Applications
Authors: Haryono I. S. , Saw A. L. , Lee S. W. , Wong Lewis C.K.
Published: April 2022

Engineers have been motivated to push boundaries and find better tools for a more efficient design process and innovative solutions in construction industry. Digital engineering is the synergistic application of electronic and software technologies. The ultimate goal is to produce digital twins which are digital replicas of real and potential physical assets. With the rise of Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twin in geotechnical engineering focuses more on the data management. However, the inherent information in digital models can be further exploited for optimizing engineering works. In this paper, this process is illustrated from the viewpoint of geotechnical works. Examples on the use of digital twin to design complex deep excavation and earthwork projects in difficult ground conditions are presented. The geotechnical design process was streamlined and the estimated time saving was up to 50% compared with a traditional design method relying on 2D cross sections.
Application of BIM in Deep Excavation Projects
Authors: Hung H. C. , Liu Y. Y. , Chang J. F. , Chou C. R.
Published: April 2022

This paper presents a Taipei MRT project as an example to illustrate the process and benefit of using BIM in a deep excavation case. The BIM concepts that are being used in this project include, (1) transforming and integrating soil boring information and soil profiles data into a comprehensive 3D models, (2) establishing 3D BIM for excavation and its strutting system, (3) detecting conflicts between interfaces, such as support and hoist systems, and creating a 4D construction simulation model by integrating construction schedule into the original 3D BIM model, and (4) creating and displaying the structure model, design and construction drawings, and quantity calculation sheets with the support of other compatible software. BIM is expected to bring a more direct and visual display and presentation of information for construction progress, and to make construction control and management simpler and more efficient. The project in the paper could be a reference for other geotechnical design and construction cases.
Use of complex medications to treat patients with back pain
Authors: Elena Yu. Shuteeva , Anna B. Krapiva , Tatiana V. Shuteeva
Published: April 2022

Purpose of the study: to assess the dynamics of pain indicators and various characteristics of the quality of life in patients with back pain when using a one-course treatment complex with the use of Clodifen Neuro. Materials and methods. The study included men and women aged 44 to 52 years with complaints of lower back pain caused by exacerbation of chronic dorsalgia. The main group included 30 patients (14 men and 16 women). The control group consisted of 24 patients (12 men and 12 women). The groups were comparable in terms of the severity of symptoms and the length of the disease. All patients received muscle relaxants and gastroprotectors of the corresponding pharmacological groups, patients in the main group received Clodifen Neuro 1 capsule twice a day for 2 weeks, patients in the control group received diclofenac tablets (enteric form) 50 mg twice a day. The effectiveness of therapy was assessed using the VAS scale and the Oswestry questionnaire. Assessment of the condition of patients in both groups was carried out before the start of the study, after the end of treatment (after 14 days) and 2 months after the end of therapy. Results. The study of the effectiveness of the use of Clodifen Neuro showed that in patients with chronic back pain, the drug favored a decrease in pain syndrome, an increase in the mobility of the spine, and the functional potential of patients. Conclusion. Treatment with Clodifen Neuro for 14 days (1 capsule orally 2 times a day) as a part of complex therapy contributed to a steady reduction in pain in the study group of patients with chronic back pain. The analgesic effect persisted for 2 months after the end of therapy. Clodifen Neuro can be recommended as a polytropic agent in the complex therapy of chronic back pain.
Review of Voltage-gated Calcium Channel α2δ Subunit Ligands for the Treatment of Chronic Neuropathic Pain and Insight into Structure-activity Relationship (SAR) by Pharmacophore Modeling
Authors: Chen Yuting , Wu Qingqing , Jin Zhengsheng , Qin Yanlan , Meng Fancui , Zhao Guilong
Published: April 2022

Background:

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a complex symptom related to nerve damage. The discovery of new drugs for treating chronic NP has been continuing for several decades, while more progress is still needed because of the unsatisfactory efficacy and the side effects of the currently available drugs. Among all the approved drugs for chronic NP, voltage- gated calcium channel (VGCC) α2δ subunit ligands, also known as gabapentinoids, are among the first-line treatment and represent a class of efficacious and relatively safe therapeutic agents. However, new strategies are still needed to be explored due to the unsatisfied response rate.

Objectives:

The aim of the study is to review the latest status of the discovery and development of gabapentinoids for the treatment of chronic NP by covering both the marketed and the preclinical/clinical ones. Moreover, it aims to analyze the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of gabapentinoids to facilitate the future design of structurally novel therapeutic agents targeting the VGCC α2δ subunit.

Methods:

We searched PubMed Central, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, and Espacenet for the literature and patents on diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, postherpetic neuralgia, fibromyalgia, voltage-gated calcium channel α2δ subunit and related therapeutic agents from incipient to June 10, 2021. The SAR of gabapentinoids was analyzed by pharmacophore modeling using the Phase module in the Schrödinger suite.

Results:

A variety of gabapentinoids were identified as VGCC α2δ ligands that have ever been under development to treat chronic NP. Among them, four gabapentinoids are marketed, one is in the active late clinical trials, and eight have been discontinued. Pharmacophore models were generated using the phase module in the Schrödinger suite, and common pharmacophores were predicted based on pharmacophoric features and analyzed.

Conclusion:

The latest progress in the discovery and development of gabapentinoids for the treatment of chronic NP was reviewed. Moreover, the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of gabapentinoids has been analyzed by pharmacophore modeling, which will be valuable for the future design of structurally novel therapeutic agents targeting the VGCC α2δ subunit.
TROP2 Down-regulated DSG2 to Promote Gastric Cancer Cell Invasion and Migration by EGFR/AKT and DSG2/PG/β-Catenin Pathways
Authors: Yang Zhiping , Feng Zhenqing , Yang Tingting , Jia Lizhou , Bian Susu , Chang Xinxia , Zhang Qian , Tang Qi , Zhu Jing
Published: April 2022

Background:

Gastric cancer (GC) is the fourth most commonly found cancer and the second- highest cause of cancer-related death worldwide. TROP2 overexpression is closely related to many cancers, including gastrointestinal tumors. DSG2 is an important protein in cell adhesion, and its loss affects cell migration.

Aims and Objective:

This study aimed to explore the specific mechanism of TROP2 in promoting gastric cancer and provide a basis for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer.

Method:

DSG2 was identified as an interacting protein of TROP2 in GC cells by coimmunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry. The regulated behavior of TROP2 on DSG2 expression was investigated with TROP2 over-expressure or knockdown. Cell-cell adhesion capacity mediated by DSG2 was evaluated by adhesion-related assays. Electron microscope observation was made for accessing GC tumor desmosome assembly. Proteins in EGFR/AKT and DSG2/PG/β-catenin pathways were evaluated by western blotting.

Result:

This study suggests that abundant expression of TROP2 in GC cells lessened DSG2 levels as well as desmosome adhesion, increased cell invasion and migration, and promoted malignant progression through EGFR/AKT and DSG2/PG/β-catenin pathways.

Conclusion:

TROP2 promotes cell invasion and migration in gastric cancer by decreasing DSG2 expression through EGFR/AKT and DSG2/PG/β-catenin pathways.
Review on Deep Learning Methodologies in Medical Image Restoration
and Segmentation
Authors: Anandharaj Hepzibah Christinal , Hephzibah R. , Kowsalya G. , Jayanthi R. , Chandy D. Abraham
Published: April 2022

This paper presents a comprehensive review of two major image processing tasks such as restoration and segmentation in the medical field on deep learning perspective. These processes are essential as restoration helps in the removal of noise and segmentation helps in extracting the particular region of interest of an image which is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This paper mainly focuses on deep learning techniques as it plays a prominent role over other conventional techniques in handling a large number of datasets in the medical field and also provides accurate results. In this paper, we reviewed the application of different convolutional neural network architectures in the restoration and segmentation processes. Based on the results in the case of image restoration, TLR-CNN and Stat-CNN are promising in achieving better PSNR, noise suppression, artifact suppression and improves the overall image quality. For segmentation process, LCP net achieves the Dice score as 98.12% and sensitivity as 98.95% in the cell contour segmentation;3D FCNN model is found to be the best method for segmentation of brain tumors. This review work shows that deep learning methodologies can be a better alternative for medical image restoration and segmentation tasks as the data size is an important concern as on today.
Attenuation of Lipopolysaccharide-induced Liver Injury by Bone Marrow
Mesenchymal Stem Cells via Inhibiting the NLRP3 Inflammasome and
Hepatocyte Pyroptosis
Authors: Yin Yunyu , Tang Lu , Liu Kui , Ding Xuefeng , Wang Daqing , Chen Li
Published: April 2022

Background:

The transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal cells (BMSCs) has been
shown to be an effective mean for treating sepsis-related organ damage. Pytoptotic cell death, in turn, has
recently been identified as a key driver of sepsis-related damage. At present, there are few studies on the
effect of BMSC transplantation on pyroptotic cell death.

Objective:

We explored the ability of BMSCs to attenuate hepatic damage in a pyroptosis-related manner
in a rat model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury.

Methods:

Following injury modeling and BMSC transplantation, we assessed the expression of the NLR
family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, and key downstream pyroptosis-related signaling
molecules.

Results:

It was found that BMSC transplantation was sufficient to significantly improve rat survival after
LPS injection. A significantly reduced expression of the pyroptosis-related proteins NLRP3, caspase-1,
IL-1β, and IL-18 in rats that had undergone BMSC transplantation compared to control animals was observed.
Notably, this activity was superior to single-agent administration of the NLRP3 inhibitor
MCC950.

Conclusion:

Our data suggest that BMSC transplantation may alleviate LPS-induced hepatic damage by
suppressing the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the induction of pyroptotic cell death.
Identifying Biomarkers of Cisplatin Sensitivity in Non-Small Cell Lung
Cancer via Comprehensive Integrative Analysis
Authors: Xie Xin-Ping , Yang Wulin , Zhang Lei , Wang Hong-Qiang
Published: April 2022

Background:

Only 30-40% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients are clinically
sensitive to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Thus, it is necessary to identify biomarkers for personalized
cisplatin chemotherapy in NSCLC. However, data heterogeneity and low-value density make it challenging
to detect reliable cisplatin efficacy biomarkers using traditional analysis methods.

Objective:

This paper aims to find reliable cisplatin efficacy biomarkers for NSCLC patients using
comprehensive integrative analysis.

Method:

We searched online resources and collected six NSCLC transcriptomics data sets with responses
to cisplatin. The six data sets are divided into two groups: the learning group for biomarker
identification and the test group for independent validation. We performed comprehensive integrative
analysis under two kinds of frameworks, i.e., one-level and two-level, with three integrative models.
Pathway analysis was performed to estimate the biological significance of the resulting biomarkers. For
independent validation, logrank statistic was employed to test how significant the difference of Kaplan-
Meier (KM) curves between two patient groups is, and the Cox proportional-hazards model was used to
test how the expression of a gene is associated with patients’ survival time. Especially, a permutation
test was performed to verify the predictive power of a biomarker panel on cisplatin efficacy. For comparison,
we also analyzed each learning data set individually, in which three popular differential expression
models, Limma, SAM, and RankSum, were used.

Results:

A total of 318 genes were identified as a core panel of cisplatin efficacy markers for NSCLC
patients, exhibiting consistent differential expression between cisplatin-sensitive and –resistant groups
across studies. A total of 129 of 344 KEGG pathways were found to be enriched in the core panel, reflecting
a picture of the molecular mechanism of cisplatin resistance in NSCLC. By mapping onto the
KEGG pathway tree, we found that a KEGG pathway-level I module, genetic information processing, is
most active in the core panel with the highest activity ratio in response to cisplatin in NSCLC as expected.
Related pathways include mismatch repair, nucleotide excision repair, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis,
and basal transcription factors, most of which respond to DNA double-strand damage in patients.
Evaluation on two independent data sets demonstrated the predictive power of the core marker panel for
cisplatin sensitivity in NSCLC. Also, some single markers, e.g., MST1R, were observed to be remarkably
predictive of cisplatin resistance in NSCLC.

Conclusion:

Integrative analysis is more powerful in detecting biomarkers for cisplatin efficacy by
overcoming data heterogeneity and low-value density in data sets, and the identified core panel (318
genes) can help develop personalized medicine of cisplatin chemotherapy for NSCLC patients.
Case Report of a Novel NFkB Mutation in a Lymphoproliferative Disorder Patient
Authors: Danandeh Khashayar , Jabbari Parnian , Rayzan Elham , Zoghi Samaneh , Shahkarami Sepideh , Heredia Raul Jimenez , Krolo Ana , Shamsian Bibi Shahin , Boztug Kaan , Rezaei Nima
Published: April 2022

Background:

Lymphoproliferative disorders include a heterogeneous list of conditions that
commonly involve dysregulation of lymphocyte proliferation resulting in lymphadenopathy and bone
marrow infiltration. These disorders have various presentations, most notably autoimmune
manifestations, organomegaly, lymphadenopathy, dysgammaglobulinemia, and increased risk of
chronic infections.

Case Presentation:

A young boy presented with symptoms overlapping different lymphoproliferative
disorders, including episodes of chronic respiratory tract infections, dysgammaglobulinemia,
lymphadenopathy-associated with splenomegaly as well as skin rashes. Genetic studies revealed
multiple heterozygous variants, including a novel mutation in the NFκB1 gene.

Conclusion:

This novel mutation can reveal new aspects in the pathogenesis of lymphoproliferative
disorders and propose new treatments for them.
Software Measurements Using Machine Learning Techniques - A Review
Authors: Goyal Somya
Published: April 2022

Background:

Software Measurement (SM) is pivotal for efficient planning,
scheduling, tracking, and controlling software projects, which significantly affects the success or
failure of a project. Machine Learning (ML) techniques have been applied for software
measurements for the past three decades.

Objective:

This review aims to synthesize the studies conducted from the years 1990 to 2020 to
provide a broad picture of the role of machine learning in the world of software measurement.

Method:

The Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach is adopted to conduct this review.
Inclusion/exclusion criteria are defined to select the most relevant studies. The researcher
searched the prominent databases and archives and obtained around 2310 studies, from which
108 studies were selected as primary studies, which were then summarized to accomplish the
goals of this review.

Results:

The distinguished contribution of this review is that it covers all aspects of software
measurements from the perspective of the application of machine learning techniques. It guides
the software practitioners regarding the journey of software measurements to date using machine
learning techniques in a single synthesized study. It further provides future guidelines for the
researchers working in this field.

Conclusion:

Machine learning techniques have extensive applications for software
measurements. Software fault prediction and software effort estimation are the most prevailing
SM tasks harnessing the ML techniques. The most popular ML technique is the artificial neural
network for SM. For empirical studies, NASA and promise datasets are extensively used. Over
the last decade (2011-2020), SM paradigm has been shifting towards ensembles of individual
ML models and deep learning models.
Primary signs of pituitary macroadenomas of diff erent hormonal activity and specialists to whom patients referred at the fi rst time
Authors: Krivosheeva Y. G. , Ilovayskaya I. A.
Published: April 2022

Purpose: evaluate the fi rst complaints of patients with pituitary macroadenomas, as well as the specialization of doctors, to whom they referred at the fi rst time.

Material and methods: data of medical records of 343 patients with pituitary macroadenomas (at least one tumor size >10 mm) were analyzed: non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPA, n=143), prolactinomas (n=67), somatotropinomas (n =133). Patients were examined prior to any treatment.

Results: In total, the most common fi rst complaints of patients with pituitary macroadenomas were: headache - 137/343 (40%), visual impairment - 86/343 (25%), general weakness and fatigue - 69/343 (20.1%), in female patients of reproductive age - menstrual irregularities. Headache did not depend on tumor size and volume, while visual disturbances were more common in patients with larger tumor volume and MR signs of chiasm compression. Th e most oft en patients with pituitary macroadenomas referred to: a neurologist 91/343 (26.5%), an ophtalmologist 44/343 (12.8%), 44/265 (16.6%) a gynecologist and a general practitioner – according to 41/343 (12%).

Conclusions: A neurologist, ophthalmologist, gynecologist, and general practitioner should be aware of a pituitary macroadenoma in patients with headaches, visual disturbances, menstrual disorders (in women of reproductive age) and non-specific general complaints that may be a marker of the presence of a pituitary tumor macroadenoma.
Clinical features of the course of overt diabetes mellitus during pregnancy
Authors: Tiselko A. V. , Tsyganova M. K. , Yarmolinskaya M. I. , Zinina T. A.
Published: April 2022

Objective: to analyze the features of diagnosis, course and outcomes of pregnancy in women with manifest diabetes mellitus.

Materials and methods: the study included 19 delivery medical records of women with MDM (manifest diabetes mellitus during pregnancy) and 500 records of women with GDM (gestational diabetes mellitus).

Results: Th irteen women out of nineteen were diagnosed with MDM in the fi rst half of pregnancy. Th e average level of glycemia at the onset of the disease was 9,3±3,0 mmol/l. Mean HbA1c was 7,2±1,1%, which signifi cantly exceeded this indicator in GDM. All women with MDM required insulin therapy, while in the group of women with GDM insulin therapy was used in 27.8% of cases. MDM women showed increased rates of preeclampsia (36,8%) compared to GDM women (15%). Fetal macrosomia was more common in MDM women (36.8%) than in GDM women (17%).

Conclusion: Th e high frequency of obstetric and perinatal complications of MDM during pregnancy requires the early detection of hyperglycemia and the prompt initiation of insulin therapy. Screening for carbohydrate metabolism disorders at the fi rst prenatal visit and early initiation of insulin therapy reduce maternal and perinatal mortality.
Evaluation eff ects of IDPP4 therapy diff erent duration on the functional state of α- and β- cells in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tuchina T. P. , Kolchanova I. A. , Meltonyan A. R. , Abramyan L. K. , Babenko A. Yu. , Galagudza M. M.
Published: April 2022

Purpose: evaluate the eff ects of DPP4i on fasting and postprandial insulin and glucagon secretion by examining basal secretion and response to food loading.

Materials and methods: patients (n = 54) were divided into treatment groups: long-term (more than a year) therapy with iDPP4 with Metformin, Metformin + sulfonylurea, fi rst-time therapy with iDPP4. Biochemical parameters, levels of insulin, glucagon, C-peptide before and aft er a standard breakfast were measured. Th e HOMA IR and HOMA β indices were calculated. Results: we obtained a signifi cant diff erence in fasting glucagon and insulin levels between the iDPP4 over a year and Metformin + SM groups. In addition, insulin levels before and aft er standard breakfast, C-peptide aft er standard breakfast, and fasting glucagon decreased aft er 6 months of fi rst-time DPP4 therapy.

Summary: the data obtained indicate the ability of iDPP4 to positively infl uence the two earliest and most signifi cant links in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes.
Transvaginal mesh-reconstruction of anterior apical prolapse: a selective implant choosing approach
Authors: Snurnitsyna O. V. , Nikitin A. N. , Lobanov M. V. , Inoyatov Zh. Sh. , Rapoport L. M. , Enikeev M. E.
Published: April 2022

Introduction. Transvaginal mesh-reconstruction of urogenital prolapse remains a controversial trend in modern urogynecology. We have seen growth in transvaginal mesh surgery since 2004, followed by a sharp decline after 2011 due to FDA restrictions related to imperfections in previously available prostheses and implantation techniques. Improving the efficacy and minimizing complications of transvaginal mesh-surgery is at the forefront of research in the field of modern urogynecology.

Purpose of the study. To optimize the indications for transvaginal mesh-reconstruction of anterior apical prolapse.

Materials and methods. The study enrolled 375 patients with anterior apical prolapse. The grade of prolapse was assessed using POP-Q. In patients with endopelvic pelvic fascia insufficiency, severe cystocele (Aa ≥ +1) and hysteroptosis grade II – IV, the correction was carried out using the six-arm OPUR® («ABISS», Saint-Étienne, France). lightweight polypropylene monofilament implant (n = 290). When the cystocele was not prominent (Aa ≤ -1) and grade III – IV hysteroptosis, posterior sacrospinal hysteropexy was preferred with the CYRENE® («ABISS», Saint-Étienne, France) tape (n = 85). In 35 patients, the operation was combined with anterior colporrhaphy. In 5 patients, a simultaneous conization/amputation of the cervix was performed. The examination was performed 1 month after surgery and then annually. Prolapse ≥ grade II was as recurrent. The follow-up period of 67 patients was more than 4 years.

Results. After OPUR® prosthesis implantation, recurrent hysteroptosis was detected in 6 women with cervical hypertrophy / elongation within a period of 1 mo to 3.5 yr and cystocele in 4 patients. The efficacy was 96%. In 9 patients, an postoperative ischuria was found associated with extensive dissection and hypotension of the bladder wall due to chronic urinary retention in severe cystocele. Urination improved in 88% of cases. In the remaining cases, long-term mediator and hormone replacement therapy were continued., One recurrent hysteroptosis was observed during the implantation of the CYRENE® prosthesis. No damage to the bladder was observed. Acute urinary retention was detected in 1 case, which resolved after intermittent catheterization.

Conclusion. The availability of 2 types of transvaginal prostheses for various degrees and configurations of urogenital prolapses allows a differentiated approach to their choice. Both prostheses suggest reliable «reconstruction-imitation» of the sacroiliac ligament by sacrospinal hysteropexy. If necessary, the operation can be supplemented with anterior colporrhaphy. The prevalence of anterior prolapse with endopelvic fascia insufficiency requires more extensive reconstruction, which can be performed relatively safely and effectively by implantation of a 6-arm OPUR® prosthesis.
A REVIEW OF MERELY POLYMERIC NANOPARTICLES IN RECENT DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM
Authors: PARAMESHWAR KONDAPURAM , SAHOO SUVENDU KUMAR
Published: April 2022

Synthetic, semi-synthetic, and natural polymers make up the colloidal formations of polymeric nanoparticles. Because of their large surface area and nanoscale size, nanoparticles have unique physical and chemical capabilities. Their distinct size, shape, and structure influence their optical characteristics, reactivity, durability, and other attributes. Supercritical fluids, in which the fluid retains a single-phase regardless of pressure, are environmentally beneficial. It is in a state of minor criticality. Because the precipitate is solvent-free, this method is environmentally friendly. Due to their qualities, they are good candidates for various commercial and marital uses, including catalysis, imaging, pharmaceutical applications, energy-based research, and ecological applications. This review provides a supercritical fluid technology-based polymeric nanoparticles overview of various forms uses, synthesis, properties, and forthcoming prospects.
HEPATIC DYSFUNCTION IN DENGUE: A TERITARY CARE HOSPITAL EXPERINCE
Authors: VERMA ANITA , CHOUHAN PRATIMA , SINGH RAJENDRA , MEENA RATTIRAM
Published: April 2022

Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate liver dysfunction in patients with dengue infections and corelation between liver function test and platelet count.
Methods: Hospital-based case−control study conducted on 141 hospitalized with Dengue infection (NS 1 and IgM positive). Dengue seropositive patients are selected and subjected to complete blood count and liver function tests were analyzed.
Results: The participants were found to have elevated levels of SGOT, SGPT levels, and lower levels of serum albumin and platelet count as compare to control on evaluation. The significant negative correlation was noted between SGOT/SGPT levels and baseline platelet counts levels. The Pearson correlation between platelet count and SGOT showed r=−0.185 and p<0.01 which proves that when platelet count decreases, the SGOT levels increases. Similarly, for the correlation between platelet count and SGPT showed r=−0.166 and <0.01 which proves that when platelet count decreases, the SGPT levels increase.
Conclusion: Statistically significant corelation was observed between liver enzymes with platelet count. Furthermore, the severity of dengue infection predicted the severity of liver derangements. It is recommended that patients with dengue infections be screened for hepatic dysfunction. As hepatic dysfunction in dengue is transient and reversible, early identification of the same would help to reduce life threatening complications.
A RANDOMIZED CASE–CONTROL PILOT STUDY ON THE NEUROCHEMICAL BASIS OF PAIN MODULATION IN PATIENTS WITH MIGRAINE, WHO PRACTICED INTEGRATED AMRITA MEDITATION TECHNIQUE
Authors: BALAKRISHNAN VANDANA , KUMAR ANAND , CS ARYALAKSHMI , M MRUDULA , RAJAN RENJU , RAVINDRAN GREESHMA C
Published: April 2022

Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the changes in duration and intensity of headache and associated changes in the plasma levels of neurochemicals, serotonin, glutamate, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and nitric oxide (NO) in patients with migraine after 6 months of regular practice of integrated Amrita meditation (IAM).
Methods: Sixteen patients aged 18–50 with migraine were randomly assigned to 2 groups, one with standard medical care and IAM, and the other only standard medical care. Data were collected before IAM, after 3 and 6 months of IAM practice.
Results: After 6 months, a significant decrease in the duration of headache from 2.4±0.54 to 1.4±0.54 (p=0.034) hours and intensity of pain from 3.6±0.54 to 2.6±0.89, (p=0.035) was seen in patients who practiced IAM. Plasma levels of serotonin dropped from 47.29±26.85 to 31.88±8.07 ng/ml, (p=0.050), glutamate reduced from 31.47±8.23 to 21.77±13.62 μg/ml, (p=0.010) and NO levels increased from 423.17±97.90 to 540±88.30 μmol/L, and (p=0.023) in the IAM group in comparison with control after 6 months. A correlating trend was seen within the IAM group in serotonin (47.29±26.85 to 53.85±29.73 ng/ml), glutamate (38.47±8.2 to 29.68±12.57 μg/ml), VIP (28.01±13.64 to 22.23±7.79 pg/ml), and NO (642.26±167.42 to 423.18±97.96 μmol/L).
Discussion: The results of our study have been discussed with other migraine and meditation-related studies.
Conclusion: Regular practice of IAM reduces the intensity and duration of headache in migraine patients and is associated with alterations in the neurotransmitter levels.
Adverse drug reaction patterns of anti-retroviral drugs: A study in a tertiary care teaching Institute of north east India
Authors: ZOSANGPUII CHRISTINA , DATTA SWAGATA , GUNINDRO NGANGOM , MEENA DN , NAMEIRAKPAM SURJIT SINGH
Published: April 2022

Objective: The use of antiretroviral drugs is associated with significant safety concerns but there is still insufficient data about the toxicity profile of ART drugs especially in developing countries. Hence, this study was done to describe the severity and pattern of different types of adverse drug reactions that occurs with antiretroviral therapy.Method: A retrospective cross-sectional study was done at Pharmacovigilance centre RIMS utilizing data from January 2016 till December 2019.Result: A total of 190 cases reported during the study period were included in this study. Incidence was higher in females (109) as compared to males (81). The most common regimen responsible was TLE (69.5%) followed by ZLN (16.3%). Involvement of dermatological system (27.4%) was most common. The most common ADR associated with TLE was skin rash (28.3%) which was less severe as compared to the most common ADR associated with ZLN, which was anaemia (40.6%). On evaluation of WHO-UMC causality of ADRs, majority were found to be possible (78.2%).Conclusion: TLE regimen requires special focus as it was the most common regimen causing ADR but patients on ZLN regimen need to be closely monitored as they were found to cause more serious ADRs. A more active pharmacovigilance is needed for better understanding of toxicities related to ART.Key words: Adverse drug reactions, Pharmacovigilance, WHO-UMC criteria, Anti-retroviral therapy.
THROMBOTIC THROMBOCYTOPENIC PURPURA AFTER VACCINATION AGAINST COVID-19 – A CASE REPORT
Authors: PANCHAL YASH N , M PATEL MAITRI , V PATEL MUKUNDKUMAR
Published: April 2022

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare but fatal thrombotic microangiopathy. Circulating AntiADAMTS13 antibodies produced in response to various triggering events, such as vaccinations, autoimmune disorders, malignancy, and administration of several drugs lead to acquired TTP (aTTP). This case concerns a 26-year-old male with aTTP after receiving the second dose of the Covishield vaccine (Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, code-named AZD1222). He presented with bruises, petechia, fatigue, dyspnea, and arthralgia post-vaccination. Laboratory reports showed thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, a significant ADAMTS13 deficiency, and a high level of autoantibody titer against ADAMTS13. We treated the patient with plasma exchange therapy and prednisolone, and after the treatment, he recovered.
CLINICOEPIDEMIOLOGICAL FEATURES OF COVID-19 PATIENTS OF SECOND WAVE AT A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL IN GUJARAT, INDIA
Authors: CHAWDA HIREN M , HEDAMBA RUTVIJ H , KOTHARI NITIN , PANCHAL KIRAN M
Published: April 2022

Objective:

The studies describing the clinicoepidemiological features of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients of first wave are available but about second wave very few studies have documented. This study was aimed to describe the clinicoepidemiological features and the causes of mortality of COVID-19 patients of second wave admitted in our center.

Methods: This retrospective observational cross sectional study was carried out among 200 randomly selected and confirmed COVID-19 indoor patients admitted between 7th April, 2021 and 3rd July, 2021 in Dr. N. D. Desai Hospital, Nadiad. The demographic profile, clinical features, comorbidities, inflammatory markers and causes of mortality in these patients were analyzed.

Results: A total 200 patients of COVID-19 of second wave were analyzed. Majority of them were males (64.5%) and the patients between 18 and 60 years of age constituted 60%. Hypertension (70.93%) and Diabetes mellitus (46.51%) were common comorbidities followed by ischemic heart diseases and chronic kidney disease. The most common presenting features were fever (75.7%), cough (68.8%), and shortness of breath (60%). The median duration of hospital stay was 7 days [interquartile range (IQR), 4–12]. The patients needed any kind of mode of oxygen therapy were 82.5%. The most common cause of death was cardiac arrest (70.58%) followed by severe acute respiratory distress syndrome ARDS (35.29%). 

Conclusions: In this retrospective study, most patients were young males with the age less than 60 years. The patients had one or more comorbidities, hypertension being the most common. Inflammatory markers were significantly higher in patients who died in our hospital.

Keywords: COVID-19, Clinicoepidemiological features, Comorbidities, ICU, Second wave, Wave-2, COVID-19 deceased, Mortality.