bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating public awareness, prevailing attitudes and perceptions towards domestic violence and abuse: a qualitative study in the United Kingdom
Authors: Sivarajasingam Vasumathy , Webber Iman , Alaa Aos , El-Osta Austen
Published: April 2022

BackgroundReported Domestic Violence and Abuse (DVA) cases have increased since the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing lockdown. Understanding the general public’s view about DVA is vital, as it would help develop targeted interventions and effective public policies to tackle DVA. We investigated public awareness, attitudes and perceptions towards DVA, and explored mechanisms to tackle DVA in the community setting.Methods In-depth personal interviews were conducted with 29 participants who responded to study invitations and adverts on social media. A topic guide was used to ensure consistency across the interviews, which were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically to detect emergent themes concerning DVA. Results All respondents were aware of the concept of abuse. Thirty-eight percent declared either having experienced DVA directly or that they knew someone close to being abused. More than half of the respondents were not aware of existing DVA supportive services in the UK. Overarching themes generated from the contextual analysis included contributing factors for DVA, challenges and barriers facing victims and proposals for future interventions. ConclusionsThe public has a broad understanding of the impacts of DVA. Simultaneously, the public fail to recognise specific instances or events in their daily lives. Raising public awareness, particularly in children through the school curriculum, highlighting existing support services and introducing the routine use of short screening tools for DVA in primary care can increase awareness, early identification and effective interventions. Sustained, multi-level community facing interventions are recommended to reduce stigma and fear associated with DVA.
Evaluation of storm surge hazard along the mainland coast of China
Authors: fu xiang , Jingming Hou , Qiuuxing Liu , Mingjie Li , Sendong Liang
Published: April 2022

A storm surge hazard indicator was developed based on the storm surge index and high-water index. Based on this indicator, the storm surge hazard along the Chinese mainland coast was evaluated. Storm surges were simulated by the GPU-based high-resolution 2-D hydrodynamic operational storm surge model, driven by ERA5 reanalysis data. High waters were calculated from coastal warning water. The results show that the storm surge hazard of more than 80% of the mainland coast are moderate and low. The coast with a high-level storm surge hazard was distributed at the top area of Hangzhou Bay, in the Pearl River Estuary, along the eastern coast of the Leizhou Peninsula and in the coastal area of Guangxi Province, representing less than 20% of the total coast. In future work, different sea level rise scenarios will be considered in this indicator and method.
Diversity of High-Risk and Low-Risk Human Papillomavirus Genotypes Oncogenated in ENT Tumors in Burkina Faso
Authors: Kandé Ali , Ilboudo Maïmouna , Ouermi Djénéba , Zohoncon Théodora Mahoukèdè , Traoré Esther Mah Alima , Traoré Ina Marie Angèle , Djigma Florencia W. , Gyebre Yvette Marie Chantal , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas , Simpore Jacques
Published: April 2022

Background
Human papillomavirus is involved in several forms of tumors of the cervix, anal canal, vulva and vagina as well as ear, nose and throat (ENT). Among ENT tumors, there is a subgroup associated with oncogenic and non-oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV). Low-risk HPVs (LR-HPV) are most often associated with benign infections such as laryngeal papillomatosis, nasal and oral papilloma and high risk HPVs (HR-HPV) are linked to ENT cancers. The objective of this study was to characterize by real-time PCR the low-risk and high-risk oncogenic HPVs involved in histologically confirmed ENT tumors in Ouagadougou.
Methods
This was a descriptive cross-sectional study of archived tissues (175 blocks) obtained over the past ten years (2007–2017) in the cyto-pathology anatomy laboratories of Yalgado University Hospital, Shiphra Clinic, Sandof Clinic and Philadelphia Clinic in Burkina Faso. HPV DNA was extracted from tissue blocks by xylene and analyzed by real-time multiplex PCR at CERBA/LABIOGENE, Ouagadougou.
Results
Of the fourteen HR-HPV genotypes tested, nine were identified. The prevalence of HPV infection was 37.7% (66/175). HR-HPV was 25.76% (17/66), LR-HPV (6 and 11) 54.55% (36/66) and co-infection 19.7% (13/66). The most common genotypes were HPV56 (47%, 8/17) and HPV33 (17%. 3/17) for HR-HPV and HPV6 (55%) for LR-HPV.
Conclusions
The results show the involvement of HR-HPV and LR-HPV in ENT tumors with and relatively high HPV prevalence. Hence the need to ensure population-specific HPV vaccination coverage for effective management.
Preoperative dose-dense docetaxel and cyclophosphamide alternating with epirubicin and cisplatin(ddDCEP): an effective, novel way of incorporating platinum in the treatment of early TNBC
Authors: Singh Ashish , Georgy Josh Thomas , John Ajoy Oommen , Thumaty Divya Bala , Joel Anjana , Sharma Parth , Andrews Anand George , Patole Shalom , Rebekah Grace , Sigamani Elanthenral , Manipadam Marie Therese , Cherian Anish Jacob , Abraham Deepak Thomas , Paul Mazhuvanchary Jacob , Balakrishnan Rajesh , Sebastian Patricia , Backianathan Selvamani , Chacko Raju Titus
Published: April 2022

Purpose
Carboplatin-containing treatment regimens in early TNBC have shown improved pCR(pathological complete response) and better EFS(event-free survival) but at the expense of increased toxicity, often leading to compromised delivery of planned treatment. We aimed to evaluate a novel alternating regimen to incorporate platinum in early TNBC.
Methods
We analyzed the data of women with early TNBC who were treated with four cycles each of docetaxel(D;75 mg/m2) and cyclophosphamide(C;600 mg/m2) alternating with cisplatin(P;60 mg/m2) and epirubicin(E;90 mg/m2) (ddDCEP) given every two weeks over a duration of 16 weeks. Pathological complete response was the primary endpoint assessed, along with treatment delivery, adverse events, and survival.
Results
A total of 116 women with stage I-III TNBC received neoadjuvant ddDCEP. Pathological complete response(pCR) defined as no residual invasive cancer in both breast(T0/Tis) and axilla(N0), was observed in 55.2% of all evaluable patients. The proportion of pCR in stage I/II disease was 62.2%, and stage III was 49.5%. 37.9% of patients developed grade 3 anaemia. Grade 3/4 neutropenia occurred in 16.3%, and febrile neutropenia in 4.3% of patients. 86% of patients completed all 8 cycles of chemotherapy, and 98% at least 6 out of 8 cycles. 12% of patients required a dose reduction of taxane, 13% for epirubicin, and 19% for platinum. The proportion of patients requiring dose reduction and the average total dose reduction was significantly higher in the pCR compared to the no pCR group for cisplatin and epirubicin. At 2 years of median follow-up, the recurrence-free survival was 91.2%, and overall survival was 97%.
Conclusion
In non-metastatic TNBC, treatment with ddDCEP as neoadjuvant therapy resulted in a high pCR(55.2%) proportion allowing good delivery of all planned therapy with manageable toxicity.
Effect of prepropeptide replacement on γ-carboxylation and activity of recombinant coagulation factor IX
Authors: Vatandoost Jafar , Bos Mettine H.A.
Published: April 2022

Based on observations indicating that γ-carboxylase enzyme has lesser affinity for propeptide of protein C (PC) and a higher net charge of γ-carboxylase region in PC propeptide, expression of recombinant chimeric Factor IX (FIX) equipped with PC propeptide was studied. The prepropeptide of FIX was replaced with PC by SOEing PCR and after cloning, recombinant pMT-prepro PC/FIX were transfected into the insect Drosophila S2 cells. The expression and activity of the active hFIX were analyzed by performing ELISA and coagulation test during 72 h of post-induction with copper ion. The results showed the higher secretion and activity level with an average of 1.2 and 1.6-fold, respectively, for chimeric prepro- PC/FIX construct in relation to normal FIX. Furthermore, after being precipitated with barium citrate, the evaluation of fully γ-carboxylated FIX indicated that more than 51% of the total FIX produced with the PC prepropeptide was fully γ-carboxylated, represents a substantial improvement (2 fold) over a system employing the native FIX propeptide, by which 25% of the protein is fully γ-carboxylated. The data illustrated that the expression of FIX using the PC propeptide led to much higher fully γ-carboxylated material, which is preferred to FIX constructs tolerating the sequence for the native FIX propeptide expressed in heterologous S2 systems.
Efficacy and safety of fenofibrate addition therapy in patients with decompensated primary biliary cholangitis refractory to UDCA
Authors: Ding Dawei , Liu Yansheng , Zheng Linhua , Jia Gui , Deng Juan , Sun Ruiqing , Wang Xiufang , Zhou Xia , Zhang Miao , Ren Pengwei , Guo Guanya , Shang Yulong , Han Ying
Published: April 2022

Background and aims There is no data regarding the efficacy and safety of fibrates in patients with decompensated liver disease associated with PBC, as published studies have systematically excluded this population. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of UDCA in combination with fenofibrate in patients with decompensated liver disease related to UDCA-refractory PBC. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis comparing the clinical results of additional fenofibrate (FF) therapy and continued UDCA monotherapy in decompensated patients refractory to UDCA. Results Total of 63 patients included: 32 cases underwent UDCA monotherapy and 31 cases underwent UDCA combined with FF therapy. Among UDCA-refractory patients with decompensated cirrhosis, FF add-on therapy for 60 months significantly improved the Mayo risk score, the Globe risk score and the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) normalization rate. Parallel changes in liver transplant-free survival, the UK-PBC risk score and surrogate serum indices of liver fibrosis were consistent with this effect. During follow-up, serum ALP, aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase decreased significantly, while total bilirubin, albumin, serum creatinine, blood urea, estimated glomerular filtration rate, APRI index, FIB-4 index and Forns index remained stable in FF-treated cases. Only the Globe risk score, not ALP normalization, was independently and negatively associated with improved outcomes on multivariable analysis (odds ratio, 2.934; confidence interval, 1.046-8.235; p = 0.041). No significant adverse effects associated with FF-related symptoms or nephrotoxicity were observed in our cohort. However, decompensated cirrhosis with deteriorated cholestasis should be considered as potential limiting factors for FF therapy. Conclusions Additional FF therapy clearly improves the Mayo risk score, the Globe risk score and the ALP normalization rate in patients with decompensated liver disease related to UDCA-refractory PBC. However, the survival rate was not significantly different between the groups. Decompensated cirrhosis with deteriorated cholestasis should be considered as potential limiting factors for FF therapy.
Night Eating Syndrome Subtypes: Differences in Binge Eating and Food Addiction Symptoms
Authors: Echeverri Brenda , Kozak Andrea T , Gildner Daniel J , Pickett Scott M
Published: April 2022

Purpose
The purpose of the current study was to examine differences in binge eating and food addiction symptoms between NES latent subtypes: evening hyperphagia with nocturnal ingestions (EHNI), evening hyperphagia-only (EHO; without nocturnal ingestions), and nocturnal ingestions-only (NIO; without evening hyperphagia). It was hypothesized that the EHNI group would report more binge eating behaviors and more food addiction symptoms than both the EHO and NIO groups. Further, it was hypothesized that the EHO and NIO groups would differ with the EHO group reporting more binge eating behaviors and the NIO group reporting more food addiction symptoms.
Methods
Participants completed measures online relating to night eating, binge eating, and food addiction symptoms. Responses to the NEQ (Allison et al., 2008) were used to create an EHNI group (n = 65), an EHO group (n = 32), and a NIO group (n = 69). ANOVAs were conducted to examine between-group differences on disordered eating symptoms.
Results
The results indicated that participants in the EHNI group reported more severe binge eating and food addition symptoms than those in the EHO and NIO groups. However, there were no significant differences in binge eating or food addiction between the EHO and NIO groups.
Conclusion
Individuals who meet both NES core criteria (evening hyperphagia and nocturnal ingestions) appear to be at a higher risk for experiencing more severe binge eating symptoms and meeting suggested criteria for food addiction diagnosis. Implications concerning assessment, treatment, and prevention for NES subtypes and comorbidities are discussed.
Level of Evidence:
Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study
Continuous activation of β1-AR/CaMKII pathway is participated in HHcy-induced myocardial injury
Authors: Chai Jiayin , Zhao Yuhui , Yan Wenjing , Xue Ke , Chen Shuai , Zhu Xinyu , Li Yan , Wang Wen
Published: April 2022

Purpose Although hyperhomocysteinemia（HHcy）is regarded as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, the role of HHcy in the development of heart failure has not been clarified yet. During the occurrence and progression of heart failure, usually the β1-adrenergic receptor（β1-AR）is activated continuously. Here we aim to evaluate the association of hyperhomocysteinemia with continuous activation of β1-AR in heart. Methods HHcy models were established by feeding mice with 2.5% methionine diet for 7 months, and HHcy+metoprolol group was established by feeding mice with 2.5% methionine diet and treating with metoprolol (15mg/Kg) through intragastric administration. Echocardiography was used to evaluate the cardiac function after 2, 6, and 7 months feeding. Myocardial injury was assessed by serum myocardial enzyme level. Myocardial ultrastructure was assessed by transmission electron microscopy. The activation level of β1-AR signal pathway was analyzed using immunoprecipitation and western blot. H9c2 cardiomyocytes and neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were treated with Hcy (500 μM) or metoprolol (100 μM) for 5-60 minutes or 48 hours separately. Results In HHcy mice, the cardiac function was decreased, the serum myocardial enzyme level was increased and the myocardial ultrastructure was destroyed, which could be alleviated by β1-AR receptor blocker metoprolol. Hcy activated the cardiac β1-AR signaling pathway, the downstream PKA signaling pathway was activated by Hcy stimulation within 5-60 min, and the CaMKII signaling pathway could be activated at 48h. Conclusion Continuous activation of β1-AR/CaMKII pathway is participated in HHcy-induced myocardial injury, which can be alleviated by β1-AR receptor blocker.
Can electrophysiological studies predict multiple sclerosis prognosis?
Authors: beton ozlem , Mungan Semra Ozturk
Published: April 2022

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease with an unpredictable course. MS lesions can affect the evoked potentials of electrophysiological studies. In this study we aimed to predict the prognosis of MS patients with electrophysiological parameters.Methods: MS patients with Visual Evoked Potentials (VEP) and Somatosensorial Evoked Potentials (SEP) were included in the study during two years period. Demographic characteristics, MS type, attack numbers, current Expanded Disability Status Scales (EDSS), electrophysiological evoked potentials (EP), blood tests, first cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of the patients were evaluated.Results: Two hundred and fifty-nine MS patients were evaluated. There was a statistically significant difference between EDSS scores and the pathologies detected in both electrophysiological examinations (p:0.000). The number of MS attacks were only associated with tibial SEP pathologies (p:0.045). IgG index of CSF had no significant effect on VEP (p:0.065) but had a statistically significant effect on posterior tibial SEP. Posterior tibial SEP was statistically significant in two-sided abnormalities in MS patients with an elevated IgG index (p:0.039). MS patients who met the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) consensus criteria had two-sided abnormalities that were statistically significant on both VEP and tibial SEP examinations (p:0.003 and 0.000 respectively). Patients who had pathology in electrophysiological examinations at the beginning have statistically significantly more frequent demyelinating lesions in spinal and infratentorial according to current MRI.Conclusion: Evoked potentials can predict clinical deterioration in MS patients.Neurophysiological abnormalities can be considered in MS disease as prognostic factor.
Locking intramedullary nailing for the treatment of severely displaced two-part surgical neck fractures of the proximal humerus: factors influencing outcomes in elderly patients
Authors: Asano Kenichi , Hiraiwa Hideki , Hidaka Satoki , Asami Yuta
Published: April 2022

Background: 2-part surgical neck fractures of the proximal humerus were treated using the locking intramedullary nail. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes in elderly patients and to assess which factors are associated with the outcomes.Methods: Forty seven patients who were 60 years of age or older were included in this study. All patients with severely displaced 2-part proximal humeral fractures were treated using a locking intramedullary nail. The average age of the patients was 72 years and the average follow-up period was 25 months. We assessed fracture healing, head-shaft angulation on radiograph, and complications. Japan Orthopaedic Association shoulder score was used to assess clinical outcomes. Statistical significance was determined using multiple regression analysis, Student t-test and Mann-Whitney U test.Results: Radiographic fracture healing was obtained in all patients. The average head-shaft angulation was 129°. Complications included osteonecrosis in 1 patient. The average Japan Orthopaedic Association shoulder score was 87.3 points. In multiple regression analysis, head-shaft angulation was associated with significantly poor clinical outcomes (p =0.048). A lower head-shaft angulation was associated with significantly poor shoulder score especially in range of motion of the shoulder joint (p =0.012).Conclusions: The technique of locking intramedullary nailing for elderly patients gives satisfactory results, and has a low rate of complications. Postoperatively, we should pay attention to varus angulation as it was associated with significantly poor shoulder function in the treatment of 2-part surgical neck fractures.Trial registration: All patients were retrospectively registered in this study.
Experimental Investigation of Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing of Inconel 625 Using Spot Welding
Authors: Votruba Vojtěch , Diviš Ivan , Pilsová Lucie , Zeman Pavel , Beránek Libor , Horváth Jakub , Smolík Jan
Published: April 2022

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a progressive technology which holds promise for manufacturing of heat resistant super alloys. One of the most productive methods is Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). In this article an alternative WAAM welding strategy is investigated. Experimental welds and material tests were performed to evaluate the material properties obtained through a GMAW CMT spot welding strategy used in WAAM of Inconel 625 alloy. The GMAW CMT spot welding strategy has lower productivity and a higher consumption of shielding gas. However, it excels in low heat input and precise material cladding in comparison with a standard GMAW CMT continuous welding strategy. It enables fabrication of finer details even on thin walled components or in sections with problematic heat dissipation. Samples manufactured using this strategy were also compared with samples manufactured through a standard GMAW CMT continuous welding strategy. Two sets of manufactured samples were thus tested. The following material tests were performed: i) metallographic analysis, ii) x-ray tomography, iii) SEM analysis, iv) hardness, v) tensile strength (20°C, 650°C), and vi) pin-on-disc (20°C, 650°C). The results show that the spot welding strategy led to improved material properties in the Inconel 625 samples. Ultimate tensile strength improved by 15% at 20°C and by 4% at 650°C. Wear resistance at 650°C was about two times higher. This paper concludes that the GMAW CMT spot welding strategy for Inconel 625 is definitely suitable for WAAM manufacturing of complex shapes, fine details and thin walled components.
Diagnostic efficiency of adropin as a preliminary test to exclude acute pulmonary embolism: a prospective study
Authors: Orun Serhat , Celikkol Aliye , Basol Batuhan Ilbey , Yeniay Elif
Published: April 2022

Background: This study aims to investigate the efficiency of adropin as a biomarker to exclude the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism. Methods: Patients admitted to the emergency department of a tertiary health center (a university hospital) between August 2019 and August 2020 and diagnosed with pulmonary embolism were included in this prospective cohort study. The amount of serum adropin was determined in patients with pulmonary embolism (who were diagnosed using computerized tomography pulmonary angiography) and compared with healthy volunteers. Results: There were 57 participants in the study (28 controls and 29 PE patients). The mean value of the adropin level in the pulmonary embolism group was 187.33 ± 62.40 pg/ml which is significantly lower than the control group (524.06 ± 421.68 pg/ml) (p < 0.001). When the optimal adropin cut-off value was 213.78 pg/ml, the likelihood ratio of the adropin test was 3.4, and the sensitivity of the adropin test at this value was 82% with specificity of 75% (95% CI; AUC: 0.821). Conclusion: The adropin test can be used to exclude the diagnosis of acute pulmonary embolism in the emergency department. However, more research is required to verify and support the generalizability of our study results.
Dry matter partitioning of Rice crop as influenced by Date of planting and Nutrient Management
Authors: Patra Bishnupriya , Jena Satyananda , Mishra Prasannajit , Sahoo Hemanta kumar , Gantayat B.P. , Mangaraj Satyabrata
Published: April 2022

Dry matter accumulation reflects growth and metabolic efficiency of a plant, which ultimately influences the economic yield. A 2-year field experiment was conducted at the Agronomy research farm of Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha during 2018 (Y1) to 2019 (Y2) having subhumid climate. Experiment was designed to evaluate the effect of two date of planting (D1: 10 July, D2: 25 July) which were allotted to main plots and 3 combinations of Nutrient management (N1: STBFR, N2: STBFR + GM, N3: STBFR + FYM) allotted for Sub plots on Rice crop (Naveen). Early planting (15 days ahead) shows significant improvement in Leaf, stem, panicle over late planting while significantly higher drymatter accumulation in different plant parts were optimized under STBFR + GM method of nutrient management. Among all the plant parts Stem shows higher accumulation of dry weight than other plant parts, However Early planting and application of STBFR + GM was recommended for higher drymatter accumulation of Rice crop.
Does the toxicity of endocrine therapy persist into long-term survivorship? – Patient-reported outcome results from a follow-up study beyond a 10-year-survival
Authors: Albertini Carmen , Oberguggenberger Anne , Sztankay Monika , Egle Daniel , Giesinger Johannes , Meraner Verena , Hubalek Michael , Brunner Christine
Published: April 2022

Background: Endocrine treatment (ET) is a highly effective breast cancer treatment but can distinctly impair breast cancer patients’ quality of life (QOL). In a patient-reported outcome (PROs) study conducted by the authors in 2011, patients reported higher ET-induced symptom levels than known from the registration trials, and was underestimated. Based on these study results, we investigated the long-term sequelae of ET reported by breast cancer survivors (BCS) in a follow-up study conducted 5-10 years after an earlier assessment.Methods: BCS who had participated in the earlier study (n=436) were approached for study participation; consenting patients were asked to completed the same PRO assessment used in the original study (FACT-B+ES). BCS with relapse/ progressive disease were excluded from the analysis. We compared long-term endocrine symptomatology and overall QOL outcome (i.e. FACT-G and -ES sum score).Results: A final sample of 268 BCS was included in the analysis. BCS reported a significant improvement of the overall endocrine symptomatology (baseline mean=59 vs. follow-up mean=62, p<0.001), physical (baseline=23.9 mean vs. follow-up mean=24.8, p<0.01) and functional well-being (baseline mean=21.7 vs. follow-up mean=22.7, p=0.013) and overall QOL (mean baseline=88.3 vs. mean follow-up=90.9, p=0.011). However, the prevalence of particular symptoms, well-known to be ET induced, did not change over time such as joint pain (baseline=45.5% vs. 44.2%, n.s. difference), lack of energy (36.4% vs 33.8%, n.s. difference), weight gain (36.8% vs. 33.9%, n.s. difference) or vaginal dryness (30.2% vs. 33%, n.s. difference) and loss of interest in sex even deteriorated over time (40.4% vs. 48.7%, p<0.05).Conclusion: Presented results indicate that BCS recover well in terms of overall endocrine symptomatology and quality of life but experience some clinically relevant and unfavorable ET related long-term effects.
Using CUSUM in Real Time to Signal Clinically Relevant Decreases in Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate
Authors: Zafarnejad Reyhaneh , Dumbauld Steven , Dumbald Diane , Adibuzzaman Mohammad , Griffin Paul , Rutsky Edwin
Published: April 2022

Background The electronic health record (EHR), utilized to apply statistical methodology, assists provider decision-making, including during the care of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. When estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) decreases, the rate of that change adds meaning to a patient’s single eGFR and may represent severity of renal injury. Since the cumulative sum chart technique (CUSUM), often used in quality control and surveillance, continuously checks for change in a series of measurements, we selected this statistical tool to detect clinically relevant eGFR decreases and developed CUSUMGFR.Methods In a retrospective analysis we applied CUSUMGFR to signal identification of eventual ESKD patients prior to diagnosis date. When the patient signaled by reaching a specified threshold CUSUMGFR value, days from CUSUMGFR signal date to ESKD diagnosis date were measured, along with the corresponding eGFR measurement at the signal. Results Signaling occurred 790 days prior to ESKD diagnosis date with sensitivity of 0.830 and specificity of 0.910. Mean days prior to ESKD diagnosis were significantly greater in Black patients (875 ), and in patients with hypertension (849 ), diabetes (940 ), cardiovascular disease (1037 ), and hypercholesterolemia (971 ). Sensitivity and specificity did not vary by sociodemographic and clinical risk factors.Conclusions CUSUMGFR correctly identified nearly 25% of CKD patients destined for ESKD when eGFR was > 60 ml/min/1.73 m2. If utilized in an EHR, signaling patients could focus providers’ efforts to slow or prevent progression to ESKD.
Stratigraphical reassessment of Grotta Romanelli sheds light on Middle-Late Pleistocene palaeoenvironments, sea-level history and human settling in the Mediterranean
Authors: Pieruccini Pierluigi , Forti Luca , Mecozzi Beniamino , Iannucci Alessio , Yu Tsai-Luen , Shen Chuan-Chou , Bona Fabio , Lembo Giuseppe , Muttillo Brunella , Sardella Raffaele , Mazzini Ilaria
Published: April 2022

During the last century, Grotta Romanelli (Southern Italy) has been a reference site for the European Late Pleistocene stratigraphy, due to its geomorphological setting and archaeological and palaeontological content. The beginning of the sedimentation inside the cave was attributed to MISs 5e and the oldest unearthed evidence of human occupation, including remains of hearths, was therefore referred to the Middle Palaeolithic. Recent surveys and excavations produced new U/Th dates, palaeoenvironmental interpretation and a litho-, morpho- and chrono-stratigraphical reassessment, placing the oldest human frequentation of the cave between MIS 9 and MIS 7, therefore embracing Glacial and Interglacial cycles. These new data provide evidence that the sea reached the cave during the Middle Pleistocene and human occupation occurred long before MISs 5e and persisted beyond the Pleistocene- Holocene boundary.
Cancer Care Unit Missed Care and Related Factors: View of Nurses of Southeast Iran
Authors: Shamsi Ala , Anari Mahlagha Dehghan , Canillas-Dufau Tori , Forouzi Mansooreh Azzizadeh
Published: April 2022

Introduction: A key element affecting care quality is missed or unfinished care, especially in oncology departments. This study aimed to evaluate missed care and related factors in oncology wards of southeast Iran.Methods: This study was conducted in five cities located in southeastern Iran. Ninety-three (93) health care providers of oncology departments participated in this study. Missed nursing care and related factors questionnaires were used for data collection. SPSS 22 was utilized to perform descriptive and inferential statistics. The significance level was set at p<0.05.Results: Study results revealed that the highest missed nursing care was “Participation in interdisciplinary patient care conferences” (2.82 ± 1.08), and “Supervision of food preparation for the patient who can eat on his own” (2.67 ± 1.30). The highest reason of missed care was an “Unexpected increase in the number of patients or crowded wards” (3.78 ± 0.69) and “High volume of activities related to patient admission and discharge” (3.73 ± 0.58). Study findings also showed a significant relationship between missed nursing care and city.Conclusion: According to the study results, allocating sufficient nursing staff to oncology wards can provide sufficient time for caregivers, resulting in decreased missed care which has been documented to contribute to increased quality of care, and improved patient safety.
Effects of smoking on the retina in of patients with dry age-related macular degeneration by optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Yang Weizhou , Song Chunyuan , Gao Meng , Wang Shuna , Yu Haonan , Li Yan
Published: April 2022

Purpose: The macula of the retina is analysed using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) to provide clinical basis and explain the mechanism of smoking as a risk factor in dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 49 normal control nonsmokers, 12 normal control smokers, 38 dry AMD nonsmokers and 35 dry AMD smokers. The foveal avascular zone (FAZ), foveal density (FD) in a 300 μm region around FAZ, vessel densities of the superficial (SCP) and deep (DCP) capillary plexuses and central fovea retinal thickness (FRT) were compared using OCTA. The bivariate correlation analysis was used to evaluate the effect of pack–year history on retina-related indices. Results: The vessel densities of whole, foveal and parafoveal of SCP and whole and parafoveal of DCP in the control nonsmoking group were all significantly higher than those in the dry AMD nonsmoking group (all P < 0.05), whereas the whole vessel density of SCP in the normal smoking group was higher than that in the dry AMD smoking group (P = 0.04). The thickness values of the inner and full-layer FRT in the normal nonsmoking group were significantly thicker than those in the dry AMD nonsmoking group (all P < 0.01). The pack–year history was negatively correlated with the parafoveal vessel density of DCP (r = −0.224, P < 0.01). Conclusions: FD, SCP, DCP and FRT are sensitive indices for the detection of early and intermediate dry AMD. DCP is a sensitive indicator that reflects the effects of smoking on the retina. Considerable changes are observed in retinal vessels, suggesting that dry AMD may affect the retinal tissue to a certain extent.
Fusion of AraBERT and DF-GAN for Arabic Text to Image Generation
Authors: BAHANI Mourad , OUAAZIZI Aziza EL , MAALMI Khalil
Published: April 2022

Current AI systems have shown impressive results in the Automatic synthesis of high-resolution realistic images from texts descriptions. Specifically, Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) as a powerful technology that utilizes computer vision tools to create two models, the Generator that generates realistic images and the discriminator that distinguishes whether the images synthesized are real or fake. Further, Most text-to-image generation frameworks leverage the power of GANs to generate realistic images conditioned with texts descriptions. In this paper, we fuse a sample and efficient text-to-image generation framework called DF-GAN and AraBERT architecture to generate images conditioned with Arabic texts descriptions. Firstly, we recreate new datasets matching the Arabic text-to-image generation task by applying super translation using the DeepL-Translator from English to Arabic on texts descriptions. Secondly, we leverage the power of AraBERT which is trained on billions of Arabic words to produce a strong sentence embedding, and we reduce that vector’s dimension to match with DF-GAN shape. Thirdly, we inject the reduced sentence embedding into the DF-GAN framework to generate high-resolution realistic, and text-matching images conditioned with Arabic texts descriptions. Such as in previous work, we use CUB and Oxford-102 flowers as original datasets. Further, we measure our framework with FID and IS. Our framework is the first that achieve much success in generating high-resolution realistic and text matching images conditioned with Arabic text.
Herpesvirus and neurological manifestations in patients with severe coronavirus disease
Authors: Carneiro Vanessa Cristine de Souza , Leon Soniza Vieira Alves , Sarmento Dmitry J S. , Coelho Wagner L. C. N. P. , Moreira Otacilio C. , Salvio Andreza L. , Ramos Carlos Henrique Ferreira , Filho Carlos Henrique Ferreira Ramos , Marques Carla A.B. , Gonçalves João Paulo da Costa , Leon Luciane A. Amado , Paula Vanessa Salete
Published: April 2022

Background
.Certain clinical manifestations of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) mimic those associated with human herpesvirus (HHV) infection. In this study, we estimated the prevalence of herpesvirus in patients with COVID-19 and determined if coinfection is associated with poorer outcomes and neurological symptoms.
Methods
We analyzed samples of 53 patients diagnosed with COVID-19. The samples were evaluated for the presence of alphaherpesviruses, betaherpesviruses, and gammaherpesviruses, and the viral loads were quantified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method.
Results
Among the patients, in 73.6% had detection at least one type of herpesvirus. HHV-6 (47.2%), cytomegalovirus (43.3%), and HHV-7 (39.6%) showed the highest detection rates. Patients with a high severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 ) load were more likely to show herpes simplex virus 1 detection (p = 0.037). Among patients coinfected with SARS-CoV-2 and HHVs, 26.4% showed central nervous system-associated neurological symptoms and herpetic manifestations. A statistically significant association was observed between neurological changes and HHV-6 detection (p = 0.034).
Conclusions
The findings showed a high prevalence of herpesvirus in patients with COVID-19. Furthermore,even though SARS-CoV-2 and HHV coinfection was not associated with poorer outcomes, the findings demonstrated the association between neurological symptoms and HHV-6 detection.
Effectiveness of a visual tool developed to promote adherence to early mobilization protocol and increase the out-of-bed mobilization rate for adult patients in the intensive care unit: a quality improvement before-and-after study
Authors: Souza Patricia Nery , Kroth Jessica Borges , Ligero Amanda dos Santos , Mendes Juliana Mesti , Vasconcelos Ana Ligia Maida , Pastore Laerte , Yamaguti Wellington Pereira dos Santos
Published: April 2022

Background
The ABCDE bundle in critical care is recommended to reduce long-term consequences of intensive care unit (ICU) and to promote better outcomes for the patients. Early progressive mobilization, represented as letter “E”, despite of had been proposed as a safe strategy in intensive care unit, it is still considered challenging by the inherent ICU barriers and poor adherence to early mobilization protocol. Recently, the letter “F” was incorporated into the bundle, representing the patient’s family participation, which can optimize care and patient’s recovery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness to improve the adherence to the early mobilization protocol after a quality improvement multifaceted strategy which resulted in the development of a specific visual tool, the “mobility clock”, in order to involve in the process beyond the healthcare professionals the patients, and family members.
Methods
A single-center before-after study was conducted using data from medical records or hospital electronic databases. A sample size of 88 patients per period was calculated to verify a reduction by 10% on the non-compliance rate with the institutional early mobilization protocol.
Results
Patients from different periods presented similar baseline characteristics. After the intervention, a decline in non-compliance with the protocol was observed compared to the previous period (10.11% vs. 26.97%, p < 0.004). Regarding mobility landmarks, the proportion of patients walking was significantly higher in the “after” period (49.44% vs. 29.21%, p < 0.006). The ICU readmission rate was lower on the “after” period (2.25% vs. 11.24%; p = 0.017).
Conclusions
The multifaceted strategy specifically designed to the institutional barriers was effective in increasing adherence to early mobilization protocol causing an increasing in the out of bed mobilization rate in the adult ICU of a tertiary hospital.
Uncovering a miltiradiene biosynthetic gene cluster in the Lamiaceae reveals a dynamic evolutionary trajectory
Authors: Bryson Abigail , Lanier Emily , Lau Kin , Mathieu Davis , Yocca Alan , Miller Garret , Edger Patrick , Buell Carol Robin , Hamberger Björn Robert
Published: April 2022

The spatial organization of genes within plant genomes can drive evolution of specialized metabolic pathways. In this study we investigated the origin and subsequent evolution of a diterpenoid biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) present throughout the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Terpenoids are important specialized metabolites in plants with diverse adaptive functions that enable environmental interactions, such as chemical defense. Based on core genes found in the BGCs of all species examined across the Lamiaceae, we predict a simplified version of this cluster evolved in an early Lamiaceae ancestor. The current composition of the extant BGCs highlights the dynamic nature of its evolution. We elucidate the terpene backbones generated by the Callicarpa americana BGC enzymes, including miltiradiene and the novel terpene (+)-kaurene, and show oxidization activities of BGC cytochrome P450s. Our work reveals the fluid nature of BGC assembly and the importance of genome structure in contributing to the origin of novel metabolites.
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Zuspan Regime With The Alternative Regime In The Maintenance Therapy Of Magnesium Sulphate In Severe Pre-Eclampsia
Authors: Choudhary Amruta , Acharya Neema , Inamdar Saunitra , Acharya Shourya
Published: April 2022

Hypertensive disorder of pregnancy causes 14% mortality and is considered second common direct cause for maternal mortality. Pre-eclampsia is a new onset of hypertension detected after 20 weeks of pregnancy with proteinuria. It is categorised as severe and non severe. The definitive management of severe preclampsia is termination of pregnancy but prevention of seizures is most important part of management. The anticonvulsant of choice is magnesium sulphate (MgSO4 ). The doses of magnesium sulphate are given as per the regimens of Pritchard or Zuspan regimen which are accepted as standard regimen globally. There is narrow therapeutic window of magnesium sulphate and can cause life threatening complications. Thus, considering the complications of magnesium sulphate in women of low BMI and difficulty in monitoring the magnesium levels in low resourse settings, many modified and alternate regimens have been developed. Rationale: In treatment of severe preclampsia, 24 hours maintenance therapy of magnesium sulphate is considered as standard regimen but no justification is given for this duration in present literature. Aims and objective: To develop a short duration regimen of maintenance dose of anticonvulsive magnesium sulphate therapy and compare with the standard regimen for treatment of severe pre-eclampsia in an effort to reduce adverse events and improve early recovery without compromising the effectiveness.Material and methods: This will be a randomised controlled trial, total 54 cases will be recruited in the case and control group each as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. All enrolled patients of study will receive loading dose of MgSO4, 4 gm intravenously. Maintenance dose will be given as 1gm/hour as continuous intravenous infusion with infusion pump for 12hours in study group and for 24 hours in control group. The primary outcome will be the occurrence of a seizure any time after the completion of treatment in both groups and secondary outcome will be maternal health outcomes and magnesium sulphate toxicities.Results-The result would be undertaken in SPSS software.Conclusion-The conclusion will be based on finding of study. Ethical clearance: Ethical approval was obtained from Institutional ethics committee.
SARS-CoV-2 infection, vaccination and antibody response trajectories in adults: a cohort study in Catalonia
Authors: Karachaliou Marianna , Moncunill Gemma , Espinosa Ana , Castaño-Vinyals Gemma , Rubio Rocío , Vidal Marta , Jiménez Alfons , Prados Esther , Carreras Anna , Cortés Beatriz , Blay Natàlia , Bañuls Marc , Pleguezuelos Vanessa , Melero Natalia Rodrigo , Serra Pau , Parras Daniel , Izquierdo Luis , Santamaría Pere , Carolis Carlo , Papantoniou Kyriaki , Goldberg Ximena , Aguilar Ruth , Garcia-Aymerich Judith , de Cid Rafael , Kogevinas Manolis , Dobaño Carlota
Published: April 2022

Background Heterogeneity of the population in relation to infection, COVID-19 vaccination and host characteristics is likely reflected in the underlying SARS-CoV-2 antibody responses.Methods We measured IgM, IgA and IgG levels against SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid antigens in 1,076 adults of a cohort study in Catalonia between June-November 2020 and a second time between May-July 2021. Questionnaire data and electronic health records on vaccination and COVID-19 testing were available in both periods.Results Antibody seroreversion occurred in 35.8% of the 64 participants infected almost a year ago and non-vaccinated, and was related to asymptomatic infection, age above 60 years and smoking. Among vaccinated, 2.1% did not present antibodies at the time of testing. In previously infected individuals, vaccination boosted the immune response and there was a slight but statistically significant increase in responses after a 2nd compared to 1st dose. Infected vaccinated participants had superior antibody levels across time compared to naïve vaccinated people. mRNA vaccines and, particularly the Spikevax, induced higher antibodies after 1st and 2nd doses compared to Vaxzevria or Janssen COVID-19 vaccines. In multivariable regression analyses, antibody responses after vaccination were predicted by type of vaccine, infection age, sex, smoking, mental and cardiovascular diseases.Conclusions Our data support that infected people would benefit from vaccination. Results also indicate that hybrid immunity results in superior antibody responses and infection-naïve people would need a booster dose earlier than previously infected people. Mental diseases are associated with less efficient response to vaccination.
Minocycline protects PC12 cells against cadmium- induced neurotoxicity by modulating apoptosis
Authors: Shayan Mersedeh , Mehri Soghra , Razavi Bibi Marjan , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: April 2022

Cadmium (Cd) is a well-known heavy metal and an environmental toxic agent. Upon human exposure, severe outcomes, such as neurotoxicity, can be anticipated. Minocycline (Mino) is an anti-microbial agent with a lipophilic structure that crosses the blood-brain barrier and enters the cerebral tissue. Based on recent studies, Mino has been introduced as an anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic chemical compound, and therefore it was examined as a protective candidate against Cd-induced neurotoxicity. In this study, PC12 cells were exposed to Cd alone, or after being pre-treated with Mino. Initially, the cell viability and oxidative stress were analyzed using the MTT assay and fluorimetry, respectively. Then, Cd-induced apoptosis and Mino anti-apoptotic effect were evaluated in both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways using western blot analysis. Exposing PC12 cells to Cd for 24 hours decreased cell viability and increased production of reactive oxygen species in comparison with the control group. Cd (35 µM) also elevated the level of caspase-8, Bax/Bcl-2, and caspase-3 proteins in the cells. Mino pre-treatment for 2 hours (100 nM) increased the number of viable cells, and decreased the production of reactive oxygen species, and the level of all apoptotic markers in comparison to Cd-treated cells. Considering all the evidence, it appears that Mino holds promising anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic activity and can protect cells against Cd-induced oxidative stress and prevent apoptotic cell death.
Canal-Net: Automatic and Robust 3D Segmentation of Mandibular Canals in CBCT Images Using a Continuity-Aware Contextual Network
Authors: Jeoun Bo-Soung , Yang Su , Lee Sang-Jeong , Kim Tae-Il , Kim Jun-Min , Kim Jo-Eun , Huh Kyung-Hoe , Lee Sam-Sun , Heo Min-Suk , Yi Won-Jin
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study was to propose a continuity-aware contextual network (Canal-Net) for the automatic and robust 3D segmentation of the mandibular canal (MC) with high consistent accuracy throughout the entire MC volume in cone-beam CT (CBCT) images. The Canal-Net was designed based on a 3D U-Net with bidirectional convolutional LSTM (ConvLSTM) under a multi-task learning framework. Specifically, the Canal-Net learned the 3D anatomical context information of the MC by incorporating spatio-temporal features from ConvLSTM, and also the structural continuity of the overall MC volume under a multi-task learning framework using multi-planar projection losses (MPL) complementally. The Canal-Net achieved higher segmentation accuracies compared to popular deep learning networks in 2D performance metrics of the Dice similarity coefficient score (DSC), Jaccard index (JI), precision (PR), and recall (RC), 3D performance metrics of volume of error (VOE), relative volume distance (RVD), and mean curve distance (MCD). The Canal-Net demonstrated a higher consistent accuracy of segmentation compared to other networks throughout the entire MC volume in the areas of low visibility by the unclear and ambiguous cortical bone layer. Furthermore, the Canal-Net outperformed other state-of-the-art networks in MC segmentation. Therefore, the continuity-aware contextual network (Canal-Net) demonstrated substantially enhanced performance for the automatic and robust 3D segmentation of the MC throughout the entire MC volume in CBCT images.