bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the efficacy of hexapeptide and azoximer bromide in coprehensive treatment of children with secondary pyelonephritis
Authors:   Kirov State Medical University, Kirov, Russian Federation, Kuligina E.S. , Razin M.P. ,   Kirov State Medical University, Kirov, Russian Federation, Akselrov M.A. ,   Tyumen State Medical University, Tyumen, Russian Federation, Petrov S.B. ,   Kirov State Medical University, Kirov, Russian Federation, Makhneva V.A. ,   Kirov State Medical University, Kirov, Russian Federation, Dunaeva E.B. ,   Kirov State Medical University, Kirov, Russian Federation
Published: July 2022

Objective. Secondary pyelonephritis occurs in children in a distant period after adequate surgical correction of congenital obstructive pathology due to long-lasting shifts of immunologic resistance. Patients and methods. The authors treated 80 children aged 5 to 15 years with secondary pyelonephritis with preserved renal function against hydronephrosis, megaureter, vesicoureteral reflux. Immunological parameters were assessed at the child's admission to the hospital and 3 months after in-patient treatment. Initial changes of immunological reactivity in the patients substantiated the treatment tactics. Group 1 consisted of 40 patients, whose complex treatment included the immunomodulator, the active ingredient hexapeptide; Group 2 consisted of 40 patients, whose complex treatment included the tablet preparation of Polyoxidonium, the active ingredient azoximer bromide. Results. Inclusion of and azoximer bromide in treatment of children with secondary pyelonephritis was found to lead to increasing of IgA, IgG, B-cells amount, phagocytosis rate and natural killer number; and to decreasing of the amount of T-lymphocytes and CD4-cells. Inclusion of hexapeptide in treatment of secondary pyelonephritis in children increases level of phagocytic activity of neutrophils, amount of natural killer cells, CD3–/CD19+-cells, CD3+/CD4+-lymphocytes number. Conclusion. Inclusion of immunotropic preparations in complex treatment of secondary pyelonephritis in children is justified in case of detection of above-mentioned disturbances. Key words: secondary pyelonephritis, immunocorrection, hexapeptid, children, azoximer bromide
Optimization of the algorithm for diagnosis, management, and surgical treatment of parameningeal tumors in children
Authors:   Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Zyabkin I.V. ,   Federal Research and Clinical Center for Children and Adolescents, Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation, Yaremenko E.Yu. ,   Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russian Federation, Yunusov A.S. ,   National Medical Research Center for Otorhinolaryngology, Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation, Grachev N.S. ,   Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Moscow State University of Food Production Technologies, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: July 2022

Objective. To optimize an algorithm for the management of children and adolescents with parameningeal tumors based on a comprehensive assessment of diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy in this type of tumors. Patients and methods. The article presents a retrospective study and prospective evaluation of follow-up of 249 patients who underwent surgical treatment in the Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology and in the Russian Children’s Clinical Hospital (Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University) from January 2003 to September 2021. The study included 139 patients with juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma, 82 patients with fibro-osseous lesions, and 28 patients with parameningeal rhabdomyosarcoma. The follow-up period was at least 1 calendar month. Results. A comparative analysis of the efficacy of preliminary diagnosis of parameningeal tumors depending on the nosology was described; analysis of patient safety during the intra- and postoperative periods, postoperative adaptation, surgical radicality and survival analysis according to the surgical treatment method was performed; algorithm for the management of patients with parameningeal tumors was described. Conclusion. It is advisable to introduce the algorithm developed by the authors into routine clinical practice to optimize medical care for children and adolescents with parameningeal tumors. Key words: children, tumors, parameningeal site, surgical interventions, juvenile angiofibroma, juvenile ossifying fibroma, rhabdomyosarcoma
Social Media Content Preferences and Political Participation among Nigerian Youths
Authors: Mande Mande Ande , Mustapha Lambe Kayode , Omar Bahiyah , Mustapha Maryam Lasisi , Ahmed Ismail Sheikh Yusuf
Published: July 2022

This study examines the influence of social media content preferences on political participation in Nigeria’s relatively nascent democracy. Due to mixed conclusions on the influence of news and entertainment preferences on political participation, we sampled 434 youths aged 18-35 in a Nigerian northern state, to investigate the differential influence of diverse social media content consumption on political participation. Incorporating the moderating and mediating influences of political efficacy and incidental news exposure, findings confirm that news and entertainment preferences are positive, significant predictors of political participation among respondents. While political efficacy moderated the influence of news preference on political participation, incidental news exposure did not mediate the influence of entertainment preference on political participation. We recommend further investigation into the influence of content preferences on political participation among Nigerian youths who constitute considerable members of the nation’s electorate.
Book review of 'The Psychology of Fake News. Accepting, Sharing, and Correcting Misinformation'
Authors: Guiu Gabriela
Published: July 2022

At a time when the line between facts and fake news has become increasingly difficult to identify, there is a need for a proper conceptualization of both the phenomenon and its implications so that policy makers can articulate effective strategies to reduce the effects of misinformation. In this unstable and turbulent context, the collective volume The Psychology of Fake News. Accepting, Sharing, and Correcting Misinformation, coordinated by Rainer Greifeneder, Mariela E. Jaffé, Eryn J. Newman and Norbert Schwarz, and published last year by the prestigious Routledge Taylor & Francis Group publisher, makes a valuable contribution to a better understanding of this social phenomenon and its functional mechanisms.
Penguatan Pendidikan Karakter untuk Membangun Peradaban Bangsa
Authors: Soraya Zazak
Published: July 2022

Berbagai masalah pendidikan di Indonesia seperti budaya mencontek, tawuran antar kelompok, bullying, pergaulan bebas, pornografi, narkoba,dan sebagainya saat ini menjadi pertanda bahwa negara ini benar- benar sedang mengalami pengeroposan sendi-sendi kebangsaan. Krisis pendidikan karakter ini perlu menjadi perhatian penting bagi seluruh masyarakat. Sejatinya, sumber daya manusia merupakan faktor terbesar dalam kemajuan bangsa. Maka, sebuah bangsa bisa hancur jika generasi penerusnya kehilangan karakter. Oleh karena itu, proses pendidikan idealnya tidak hanya menitikberatkan pada aspek kognitif saja, namun juga diperlukan keseimbangan pada ranah aspek afektif dan psikomotorik. Dengan demikian, penguatan pendidikan karakter bukan sebuah keniscayaan untuk dikembangkan pada lembaga pendidikan sebagai salah satu upaya untuk menanggulangi dekadensi moral serta meneguhkan kembali jati diri bangsa.Berbagai masalah pendidikan di Indonesia seperti budaya mencontek, tawuran antar kelompok, bullying, pergaulan bebas, pornografi, narkoba,dan sebagainya saat ini menjadi pertanda bahwa negara ini benar- benar sedang mengalami pengeroposan sendi-sendi kebangsaan. Krisis pendidikan karakter ini perlu menjadi perhatian penting bagi seluruh masyarakat. Sejatinya, sumber daya manusia merupakan faktor terbesar dalam kemajuan bangsa. Maka, sebuah bangsa bisa hancur jika generasi penerusnya kehilangan karakter. Oleh karena itu, proses pendidikan idealnya tidak hanya menitikberatkan pada aspek kognitif saja, namun juga diperlukan keseimbangan pada ranah aspek afektif dan psikomotorik. Dengan demikian, penguatan pendidikan karakter bukan sebuah keniscayaan untuk dikembangkan pada lembaga pendidikan sebagai salah satu upaya untuk menanggulangi dekadensi moral serta meneguhkan kembali jati diri bangsa.
Kompetensi Kewirausahaan Kepala Sekolah dalam Program Eduprenuership di SMPN 2 Kecamatan Pulung Kabupaten Ponorogo
Authors: Ainul Ainul Nurhayati Istiqomah
Published: July 2022

Abstract
This study aims to determine how the entrepreneurial competence of the principal of SMPN 2 Pulung District, Ponorogo Regency based on five main characteristics according to Permendiknas No. 13 of 2007 in the edupreneurship program. This study uses qualitative research through three steps in data analysis, namely data reduction, data display, and data analysis. The results of the study indicate that entrepreneurial competence which is one of the competencies that must be met by school principals which includes five characteristics is very supportive in the edupreneurship program that has been implemented at SMPN 2 Pulung District, Ponorogo Regency. The application of the five characteristics include: first, the creation of innovations that are beneficial for school development, namely the innovation of the edupreneurship program. Second, work hard in achieving school success as a collection of effective learners, namely the principal is always ready to take on task experts in dealing with various problems that arise. Third, a strong motivation to succeed in carrying out his main duties and functions as a leader, namely the principal always provides motivation in every formal and non-formal meeting related to the edupreneurship program. Fourth, never give up and always look for a solution to a problem that arises in the school. Fifth, the entrepreneurial instinct for managing school service production activities as a source of student learning, namely the existence of SMEs or small businesses and the management of cooperatives in the edupreneurship program. The program is run by the school in order to grow young entrepreneurs who are creative, innovative, and able to compete in facing various challenges.
Keywords: Entrepreneurship Competence, Eduprenuership
Technology Focus: Acidizing (June 2022)
Authors: Chang Frank
Published: July 2022

The pulse of our industry is driven not only by simple supply and demand but also by political debate around climate change. It should be kept in mind that the majority of greenhouse-gas emissions is caused by using fossil fuels, not by producing them. Published data showed 5.6% of the global greenhouse-gas emission was from energy production through fugitive gas, compared with 73.2% from the use of energy in various industries, buildings, and transportation. The oil and gas industry is a provider of the basic needs for human activities instead of being the cause of major environmental damage. In fact, the world will have to rely on our knowledge of the subsurface to reach net zero through CO2 sequestration. Nevertheless, today, sustainability is a key matter in our industry. The knowledge we have accumulated in matrix acidizing can play an important role not only in supplying low-cost energy but also in contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases.

It is pleasantly surprising to find a revival in sandstone acidizing. For many years, sandstone acidizing was becoming almost a lost art, overshadowed by carbonate acidizing and hydraulic fracturing. The complex reaction equilibrium of hydraulic fracturing and siliceous minerals, and hence the arduous sequencing of the fluids, impedes its effectiveness. A single-step formulation that works well in carbonate acidizing may mean broader acceptance by operators.

Matrix stimulation is not limited to pumping acids. Assessing reservoir properties and well-completion designs to properly integrate chemical formulations and mechanical tools, such as tunneling or jetting, can help extend the reach into the reservoir and, therefore, deliver the optimal economic result of the treatment.

Protecting well tubulars from corrosion is another critical consideration during acidizing. The reality of constructing wells with nonmetallic materials is still in the future. Use of corrosion-resistant liner can prove more reliable than chemical inhibitors, especially when long production life of the well is a critical consideration.

Acidizing has long been practiced, yet the evolution of chemicals seems slow to stagnant. However, huge amounts of data are available. Collecting and organizing them using artificial-intelligence algorithms will help us improve practices and perhaps even trigger the next breakthroughs. Let’s look forward to integrating the digital transformation with the development of acidizing products and technology in the future.

Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org.

IPTC 21997 - A Delayed In-Situ-Generated Acid System To Enhance Carbonate Acidizing by Albert Bokkers, Nouryon, et al.

SPE 208807 - Stimulation Treatment Design Compatible With Glass-Reinforced-Epoxy Lining by Anastasia Bird, BP, et al.

IPTC 22665 - Low-Viscosity Polymer Free Acid Retarded System, a Novel Alternative to Emulsified Acid: Successful Application in West Kuwait Field by Salem Hamad Al-Sabea, Kuwait Oil Company, et al.
Alterations in the gut microbiota with the accumulation of cardiovascular disease risk factors among Chinese children
Authors: Sun Jiahong , Ma Xiaoyun , Yang Liu , Jin Xuli , Zhao Min , Xi Bo , Song Suhang
Published: July 2022

Background
The evidence on the effect of gut microbiota on the accumulation of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk factors among children is scarce. We aimed to examine the alterations of gut microbiota with different numbers of CVD risk factors among children.
Methods
Data were from the baseline study of the Huantai Childhood Cardiovascular Health Cohort Study in Zibo, China. We compared the differences in gut microbiota based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing among 72 children with different numbers of CVD risk factors matched by age and sex (i.e., none, one, two-or-more, 24 children for each group).
Results
The community richness and diversity of gut microbiota decreased with an increased number of CVD risk factors in children (P for trend < 0.05). Among genera with relative abundance greater than 0.01%, the relative abundance of Lachnoclostridium (PFDR=0.009) increased in the CVD risk groups, whereas Alistipes (PFDR<0.001) and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group (PFDR=0.043) decreased in the CVD risk groups compared to the non-risk group. Genus Christensenellaceae_R-7_group performed a high ability in identifying one and two-or-more risk from non-risk (area under the ROC curve [AUC]: 0.84–0.92), and genera Family_XIII_AD3011_group (AUC: 0.73–0.91) and Lachnoclostridium (AUC: 0.77–0.80) performed moderate abilities in identifying none, one, and two-or-more CVD risk factors in children. The disorders of gut microbiota participating in the D-Glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism and cysteine and methionine metabolism pathways might lead to the accumulation of CVD risk factors in children.
Conclusions
Dysbiosis of gut microbiota particularly for genera Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, Family_XIII_AD3011_group, and Lachnoclostridium may contribute to the early detection and the accumulation of CVD risk factors in childhood.
Constituent Heparin and Unusual Hemostatic Mechanisms in Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma
Authors: Onkar Vedak , Pathak Preetam , mishra anupam , pandey shivani , mishra subhash chandra
Published: July 2022

Background/ ObjectiveAs the hemorrhagic blood during surgical resection of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) does not clot in the suction bottle, the aim is to investigate the characteristics of abnormal coagulation profile of this postoperative hemorrhagic blood.Material and methodsHemostatic profile of systemic (pre/post-operative) and intraoperative (hemorrhagic) blood (N = 18) was analyzed with in-vitro comparison of clotting along with effect of mixing oropharyngeal secretions (OS). In addition, tissue heparin level (N = 31) was assessed.ResultsThe hemorrhagic blood in 88% strikingly revealed small miniscule friable clots. FDP or d-dimers were demonstrated (N = 12) suggesting fibrinolysis along with normal fibrinogen without clotting (N = 3). The systemic blood samples revealed normal hemostasis while tumor size/ hemorrhage influenced postoperative prothrombin time(PPT). Enhancement of tissue-heparin levels was statistically significant.ConclusionConstituent-heparin and ‘plasmin-like-substance’ is likely to influence clotting, enhance hemorrhage and prevents consumption of coagulation factors. PPT was surrogate marker for stressed haemostatic mechanism.
Venous Thromboembolism: Exploring Incidence and Utility of Screening in Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Draganich Christina , Park Andrew , Sevigny Mitch , Charlifue Susan , Coons David , Makley Michael , Fenton James , Alvarez Raul
Published: July 2022

Study DesignRetrospective chart review. ObjectiveTo assess the incidence and possible risk factors for VTE in patients admitted to a SCI rehabilitation center. SettingAcute neurorehabilitation hospital specializing in SCI.MethodsRecords of 228 consecutive admissions were reviewed. All patients received screening four limb ultrasounds on admission. Charts were reviewed to determine whether VTE was diagnosed at the acute care hospital or in the rehabilitation center; either on admission screening or later in the rehabilitation stay. Charts were reviewed to identify potential risk factors for VTE as well as incidence of bleeding complications in patients placed on full anticoagulation. ResultsIn this patient cohort, 115 DVTs were identified in the following settings: 27% in acute care [n=31], 70% on admission to rehabilitation [n=80], and 24% during the course of rehabilitation stay [n=28]. Of those who were on therapeutic anticoagulation due to admission diagnosis of VTE [n=63], 12.7% developed recurrent DVT and 9.5% had bleeding complications. Of those who were initiated and continued on therapeutic anticoagulation, there was zero incidence of PE. Risk factors for development of VTE included age, BMI, rehabilitation length of stay, injury etiology, a spinal cord related surgery, and history of inferior vena cava filter.ConclusionsDVT was identified in 70% of this cohort with screening ultrasound on admission to rehabilitation and of those initiated and continued on therapeutic anticoagulation, none developed PE, while 9.5% had bleeding complications. Given the findings of this study, prospective research in non-invasive vascular ultrasound screening for VTE should be considered.
Quality of Life of Patients Undergoing Haemodialysis at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital
Authors: Sambou Mamina , Bah Haddy Tunkara , Sanyang Yusupha
Published: July 2022

Background: Renal Replacement Therapies (RRTs) like haemodialysis only partially corrects the symptoms experienced by the patient and provokes additional changes in the lifestyles of patients. These changes can affect Quality of life (QOL) of the patients. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to measure the quality of life of patients undergoing haemodialysis at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), The GambiaMethod: A cross-sectional study design was used. The Kidney Disease Quality of Life –Short Form (KDQOL-SF) questionnaire was adapted and used to collect data from 44 participants undergoing haemodialysis at the time of data collection. The data was analysed using SPSS version 20 and t-test and Analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to determine the difference of quality of life, among the patients in relation to their demographic variables.Results: The finding showed that the majority of the patients were female 30(68.2%) and the mean age was 43.3 years ranging from 20- 80 years. Hypertension was the major cause of renal failure (n=27; 61.4%) of the patients. The patients have a poor quality of life with a mean score of 34. 8%. Independent t-test shows that the physical composite score (PCS), Mental composite score (MCS), Kidney disease composite score (KDCS) were all higher in males compared to females, with PCS being significant at a p- value of 0.007 and KDCS at a P-value of 0.01. The MCS was significantly higher among the unmarried patients at a p-value of 0.022 as well as for diabetes and hypertension compared to unknown causes of KidneyConclusion: The low PCS, MCS and KDCS among the patients receiving haemodialysis treatment in EFSTH indicate a poor quality of life. Therefore, more efforts need to be done to improve the quality of life for this patients.
War-related traumatic brain injuries during the Syrian armed conflict in Damascus 2014-2017: a cohort study and a literature review
Authors: HANAFI Ibrahem , MUNDER Eskander , AHMAD Sulafa , ARABHAMO Iman , DIAB Suzan , BADIN Noor , OMARAIN Ahmad , JAWISH Mhd Khaled , DUFNER Vera , WIPPLINGER Tamara , WIPPLINGER Christoph , SALEH Muhannad , NICKL Robert
Published: July 2022

Background: The decade-long Syrian armed conflict killed or injured more than 11% of the Syrian population. Head and neck injuries are the most frequent cause of war-related trauma, about half of which are brain injuries. Reports about Syrian brain trauma victims were published from neighboring countries; However, none are available from Syrian hospitals. This study aims to report war-related traumatic brain injuries from the Syrian capital.Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study between 2014 and 2017 at Damascus Hospital, the largest public hospital in Damascus, Syria. Target patients were the victims of combat-related traumatic brain injuries who arrived alive and were admitted to the neurosurgery department or to another department but followed by the neurosurgery team. The collected data included the mechanism, type, and site of injury based on imaging findings; types of invasive interventions; intensive-care unit (ICU) admissions; as well as neurological status at admission and discharge including several severity scales.Results: Our sample consisted of 195 patients; Ninety-six of them were male young adults, in addition to 40 females and 61 children. Injuries were caused by shrapnel in 127 (65%) cases, and by gunshots in the rest, and most of them (91%) were penetrating. Sixty-eight patients (35%) were admitted to the ICU, and 56 (29%) underwent surgery. Neurological impairment was reported in 49 patients (25%) at discharge, and the mortality rate during hospitalization was 33%. Mortality and neurological impairment associated significantly with higher values on clinical and imaging severity scores.Conclusions: This study captured the full spectrum of war-related brain injuries of civilians and armed personnel in Syria without the delay required to transport patients to neighboring countries. Although the clinical presentation of injuries at admission was not as severe as that in previous reports, the inadequate resources (i.e., ventilators and operation rooms) and the lack of previous experience with similar injuries might have resulted in the higher mortality rate. Clinical and imaging severity scales can provide a handy tool in identifying cases with low probability of survival especially with the shortage of personal and physical resources.
Production Performance, Defensive, Hygienic, Swarming, and Foraging Behavior of Apis mellifera scutellata bee race
Authors: Tarekegn Alayu , Faji Mulisa , Abebe Alemayehu , Bezabeh Amssalu
Published: July 2022

Honey bee colonies exhibit a wide range of behavior variations depending on genetic origin and environmental factors. Therefore, the performance evaluation of honey bee races is critical to laying a foundation for future selection and improvement in Ethiopia. Thirty colonies of Apis mellifera scutellata (A.m.scutellata) were kept in improved box hives and their difference in performance was evaluated through reproductive swarming tendency, absconding behavior, defensive behavior, hygienic behavior, brood population, and foraging activity during the active season (October to December and April to May. This study showed that the A.m.scutellata race has a higher swarming tendency, with up to 3.24 queen caps per hive prepared per year. The result also revealed that A.m.scutellata was very aggressive, taking time below 1 minute after disturbances and following up to a 400-meter distance from the hive. The A.m.scutellata exhibited an absconding tendency was 34.5% if any disruption. The yielding honey performance of the race per frame ranged from 1.3 kg to 1.5 kg, and an average of 14 kg per harvest. A.m. scutellata showed good performance in hygienic behaviors (93.65%), but undesirable behaviors in defensive behavior and swarming tendency make it difficult to manage honey bees. Overall, our results demonstrate that A.m.scutellata honeybee colonies show a higher defensive and absconding tendency. In addition to this, the honeybees have a high tendency for swarming. However, the race has good performance in foraging and hygienic behaviors. Further, studies of the honey bee race through selection and breeding could be conducted to reduce the higher aggressiveness and swarming tendency of A. m. scutellata to improve production performance.
The human microbial exposome: expanding the Exposome-Explorer database with gut microbial metabolites
Authors: Neveu Vanessa , Nicolas Geneviève , Amara Adam , Salek Reza M. , Scalbert Augustin
Published: July 2022

Background. Metabolites produced by the gut microbiota play an important role in the cross-talk with the human host. Many microbial metabolites are biologically active and can pass the gut barrier and make it into the systemic circulation, where they form the gut microbial exposome, i.e. the totality of gut microbial metabolites in body fluids or tissues of the host. A major difficulty faced when studying the microbial exposome and its role in health and diseases is to differentiate metabolites solely or partially derived from microbial metabolism from those produced by the host or coming from the diet.Objective. To collect data from the scientific literature and build a database on gut microbial metabolites and on evidence of their microbial origin.Methods: Three types of evidence on the microbial origin of the gut microbial exposome were defined: 1/ metabolites are produced in vitro by human faecal bacteria; 2/ metabolites show reduced concentrations in humans or experimental animals upon treatment with antibiotics; 3/ metabolites show reduced concentrations in germ-free animals when compared with conventional animals. Data was manually collected from peer-reviewed publications and inserted in the Exposome-Explorer database. Furthermore, to explore the chemical space of the microbial exposome and predict metabolites uniquely formed by the microbiota, genome-scale metabolic models (GSMMs) of gut bacterial strains and humans were compared.Results: A total of 1854 records on one or more types of evidence on the gut microbial origin of 462 metabolites was collected in Exposome-Explorer. Data on their known precursors and concentrations in human blood, urine and faeces was also collected. About 66% of the predicted gut microbial metabolites (n = 1543) were found to be unique microbial metabolites not found in the human GSMM, neither in the list of 462 metabolites curated in Exposome-Explorer, and can be targets for new experimental studies.Conclusion: This new data on the gut microbial exposome, freely available in Exposome-Explorer (http://exposome-explorer.iarc.fr/), will help researchers to identify poorly studied microbial metabolites to be considered in future studies on the gut microbiota, and study their functionalities and role in health and diseases.
First description of the shelf epipelagic plankton layers at a Mediterranean basin-scale
Authors: Ventero Ana , Iglesias Magdalena , Giannoulaki Marianna , Pyrounaki Maria Myrto , Leonori Iole , de Felice Andrea , Tičina Vjekoslav , Saraux Claire , Genovese Simona , Baeza Josep , Córdoba Pilar , Kapelonis Zacharias , Somarakis Stylianos , Hattab Tarek , Biagiotti Ilaria , Malavolti Sara , Juretić Tea , Bourdeix Jean-Hervé , Basilone Gualtiero , Ferreri Rosalia , Aronica Salvatore
Published: July 2022

This research represents the first approach to the study of the shelf zooplankton community at a Mediterranean scale, using acoustic standardized data collected in June-July in 10 different geographical sub-areas (GSAs) established by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) within the framework of the MEDiterranean International Acoustic Survey (MEDIAS). The analysis of the zooplankton layers based on their acoustic characteristics has revealed the potential of these surveys for the study of zooplankton at a Mediterranean basin scale and, also, the need to collect biological samples to interpret the acoustic records in terms of species. The fish population’s direct assessment is established in the MEDIAS framework, but the integration of zooplankton community data would constitute a qualitative step for the understanding of the fluctuations of fish populations and therefore to achieve the objective of an ecosystem-based management. Results have revealed the ubiquity of the zooplankton layers and its ability to form layers detectable by scientific echosounders throughout the Mediterranean at the common fish assessment frequency (38 kHz). In addition, the use of two frequencies (38 and 120 kHz) has allowed to apply the dB difference method, observing changes in the difference of the Mean Volume Backscattering Strength (∆MVBS) at 38 and 120 kHz frequencies, which would be related to changes in the composition of the zooplankton community.
Single center retrospective subgroup analysis of “primary aortic” (aneurysm, aortic dissection, PAU) and “secondary aortic” (iatrogenic, trauma and aortoesophageal fistula) indications for emergency TEVAR
Authors: Rebelo Artur , Partsakhashvili Jumber , Ronellenfitsch Ulrich , John Endres , Kleeff Jörg , Ukkat Jörg
Published: July 2022

Background: The aim of the study was to analyse the outcome of emergency thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in the treatment of “primary aortic” (aneurysm, aortic dissection, penetrating aortic ulcer [PAU]) and “secondary aortic” (iatrogenic, trauma and aortoesophageal fistula) pathologies. Methods: Retrospective review of a cohort of patients treated at a single tertiary referral center from 2015 to 2021. Primary end point was postoperative in-hospital mortality. Secondary end points were the duration of the procedure, duration of postoperative intensive care treatment, length of hospital stay, and the nature and severity of postoperative complications according Dindo-Clavien Classification Results: A total of 34 patients underwent TEVAR for emergency indications. 22 patients were treated for primary and 12 patients for secondary aortic pathologies. Concerning in-hospital mortality, no statistically significant difference could be observed between the primary and secondary aortic groups (27.3% vs 33.3 %, p=0.711). Patients with aortoesophageal fistula had a mortality rate of 66.7%. Postoperative morbidity (Dindo-Clavien >3) was also not statistically significant different between the aortic and non-aortic groups (36.4% vs 33.3%, p=0.86). Preoperative hemoglobin level (mmol/L) (p<0.001), postoperative creatinine level (umol/L) (p=0.009) and pre- and postoperative lactate levels (p<0.001) were found to be independent factors associated with early mortality and morbidity (Dindo-Clavien >3). Conclusions: Morbidity and in-hospital mortality are still considerable after emergency TEVAR, for both aortic and non-aortic indications. Pre- and postoperative levels of hemoglobin, creatinine and lactate may be valuable to predict the patient outcomes.
A novel camptothecin derivative, ZBH-01, exhibits superior antitumor efficacy than irinotecan by regulating the cell cycle
Authors: Li Yongqi , Zhao Dawei , Zhang Wenqiu , Yang Miaomiao , Wu Zhihui , Shi Weiguo , Lan Shijie , Guo Zhen , Yu Hong , Wu Di
Published: July 2022

Irinotecan (CPT-11) is a classic chemotherapeutic agent that plays an important role in the clinical treatment of metastatic colon cancer and other malignant tumors. We previously designed a series of novel irinotecan derivatives and selected one representative, ZBH-01, to investigate its sophisticated antitumor mechanisms in colon tumor cells. Our current results showed that ZBH-01 has superior antitumor activity against colon cancer cells compared to CPT-11 and SN38 (7-Ethyl-10-hydroxy camptothecin), both in vivo and in vitro. However, its inhibitory ability on topoisomerase I (TOP1) was weaker than these two control drugs. Moreover, 842 mRNAs were downregulated and 927 were upregulated in the ZBH-01-treated group by Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics analysis. The most significantly enriched KEGG pathways for these dysregulated mRNAs were DNA replication, the p53 signaling pathway, and the cell cycle. Then, we constructed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and identified a significant cluster containing 73 genes, including 14 involved in the cell cycle process. ZBH-01 induced G0/G1 phase arrest and enhanced the levels of p53 protein in colon cancer cells, while CPT-11/SN38 caused S phase arrest. The initiation of apoptosis by ZBH-01 was also superior to CPT-11/SN38, followed by the increased expression of Bax, active caspase 3, and cleaved-PARP, and decreased expression of Bcl-2. Additionally, CCNA2 (cyclin A2), CDK2 (cyclin-dependent kinase 2), and MYBL2 (MYB proto-oncogene like 2) might be involved in the G0/G1 cell cycle arrest induced by ZBH-01. Overall, ZBH-01 can be an antitumor candidate drug for preclinical study in the future.
Effectiveness and Safety of Statins on Outcomes in Patients with HIV Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vigny Njeodo Njongang , Bonsu Kwadwo Osei , Kadirvelu Amudha
Published: July 2022

Statins are hypolipidaemic in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive individuals. However, their all-cause mortality and discontinuation rates improvement is unclear. We evaluated statins impact on all-cause mortality, discontinuation rates, and adverse effects incidence among HIV patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). We searched four electronic databases from inception until October 2021 for trials and cohort studies in HIV patients evaluating statins versus placebo. Forty-seven studies involving 91,594 patients were included. Statins significantly decreased discontinuation rates (RR, 0.701; 95% CI, 0.508–0.967; p = 0.031), but insignificantly reduced all-cause mortality (RR, 0.994; 95% CI, 0.561–1.588; p = 0.827). Also, statins insignificantly lowered the incidence of any adverse effects (RR, 0.780; 95% CI, 0.564–1.077; p = 0.131), diabetes mellitus (RR, 0.272; 95% CI, 0.031–2.393; p = 0.241) and raised the incidence of myalgia (RR, 1.341; 95% CI, 0.770–2.333; p = 0.299), and elevated creatine kinase (RR, 1.101; 95% CI, 0.457–2.651; p = 0.830) and liver enzyme (RR, 1.709; 95% CI, 0.605–4.831; p = 0.312) activities. In HAART-experienced patients, statins reduced discontinuation rates and had comparable effects on all-cause mortality with placebo. Furthermore, statin therapy did not increase the onset of any adverse effects, myalgia, elevated creatine kinase and liver enzyme activities, and decrease the onset of diabetes mellitus.
Optimized analysis of waveguides bends and Y-junctions with the Method of Lines
Authors: Spiller Waldemar
Published: July 2022

An analysis of bends and Y-junctions in different waveguide structures was described in the past using the Method of Lines. The impedance/admittance and field transformation were combined with finite differences. This paper will shown how waveguide bends and Y-junctions can be analyzed in an efficient way. The computation time is thus almost halved. It is also shown how different coordinate systems can be combined in the different sub-parts of the structures. For the demonstration, 2D defect waveguides in photonic crystals in the form of bends and Y-junctions are considered.
Accumulation of Heavy Metals and its Health Risk Assessment in Vegetables of India
Authors: Fazili Mohammad Afaan , Ahmad Naushad , War John Mohd , Nazir Romaan , Akram Mohammad
Published: July 2022

In the present study, the vegetable grown in different areas of Aligarh and sold in different places were studied for the extent of accumulation of eight selected heavy Metals. Samples of twenty selected vegetables were collected from three market sites of Aligarh city. The vegetables studied include different edible parts as root, stem, leaf, nascent inflorescence and fruit. The eight metals mainly cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb) and Zinc (Zn) have been determined in the edible parts and compared. The optimum Oral reference doses (RfD) mg kg-1 day-1 for heavy metals is (Cd =0.001), Chromium (Cr =1.5), Copper (Cu =0.04), Iron (Fe = 0.7), Manganese (Mn = 0.14), Nickel (Ni =0.02), Lead (Pb = 0.004) and Zinc (Zn =0.3) as per Indian standard.
Bioactivity of essential oils from Croton grewioides and its major compounds: toxicity to soybean looper Chrysodeixis includens and selectivity to the predatory stink bug Podisus nigrispinus
Authors: Santos Natielli Conceição , Silva Jefferson Elias da , Santos Ane Caroline Celestino , Dantas Jaciele de Oliveira , Tavares Swamy Rocha Siqueira Abreu , Andrade Valfran Silva , Oliveira Sara Dayan da Silva , Blank Arie Fitzgerald , Araújo Ana Paula Albano , Bacci Leandro
Published: July 2022

Natural biological control is a key factor that ensures the regulation of insect pest populations in agroecosystems. However, the indiscriminate use of pesticides has compromised this environmental service. Thus, the search for environmentally safe pesticides is an increasing requirement for sustainable food production. In this study, we analyzed the toxicity of essential oils from two accessions (CGR112 and CGR126) of Croton grewioides and its major compounds, methyl eugenol and eugenol, on the soybean pest Chrysodeixis includens. In addition, we investigated the sublethal effects of these compounds on the predatory bug Podisus nigrispinus, analyzing its developmental, reproduction and life table parameters. Essential oils and their major compounds were toxic to C. includens and P. nigrispinus. In general, the presence of eugenol made the essential oil more toxic to the pest and selective to the natural enemy. Eugenol was the most toxic compound for second instar larvae of C. includens at LD50, followed by CGR126 essential oil from C. grewioides which was equally toxic and this compound at higher doses. The estimated lethal times for essential oils to cause mortality in 50% of the population of C. includens were less than 15 hours. There was selectivity of the essential oil of CGR126 accession of C. grewioides at lethal doses above 90%. Although the treatments showed little effect on the development of P. nigrispinus, body mass and reproductive parameters were negatively affected, with the exception of the essential oil of CGR126 accession of C. grewioides. The essential oil of C. grewioides may represent a promising source to be used in the synthesis of new insecticides, which are efficient against C. includens and at the same time are safer for the natural enemy P. nigrispinus.
Paired Associative Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Synchronized With Endogenous Human Hippocampus Activity Enhances Memorization Capacity
Authors: Agustín Arantzazu San , Crevillén David , Soto-León Vanesa , Moreno Juan C. , Oliviero Antonio , Pons Jose L.
Published: July 2022

The hippocampus is considered a fundamental cortical structure in the memory process of encoding, retaining, and recalling information. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) following a Paired Associative Stimulation (PAS) protocol is known to induce nervous system excitability enhancement and promote cortical plasticity mechanisms, synchronizing two stimuli in the same neural pathway. However, PAS has not been shown to improve memorization capacity yet. Here, we present an innovative PAS based on the paired application of single-pulse TMS towards the hippocampus synchronized with the endogenous hippocampal activity during a memory task. 96 volunteers were randomized across one experimental group and three parallel groups (motor cortex stimulation, sham stimulation and no stimulation) for a single PAS session. This new configuration of PAS resulted in an increased memorization capacity in the working memory task, dependent on the cortical location of the stimulation and subjects’ basal memory performance. Future research in PAS parameter variability would be required to unveil the PAS derived changes in neural mechanisms that enhance the ability to memorize. These results are potentially significant to clinical research on memory dysfunction and related neurological disorders.
UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase as a target for regulating carbon flux distribution and antioxidant capacity in Phaeodactylum tricornutum
Authors: Zhang Ruihao , Zhu Baohua , Sun Changze , Li Yun , Yang Guanpin , Zhao Yan , Pan Kehou
Published: July 2022

UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (UGPase) is a key enzyme for polysaccharide synthesis, and its role in plants and bacteria is well established; however, its functions in unicellular microalgae remain ill-defined. Here, we performed bioinformatics as well as in vitro and in vivo analyses to elucidate the functions of two UGPs (UGP1 and UGP2) in the model microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Despite differences in amino acid sequence, substrate specificity, and subcellular localization between UGP1 and UGP2, both enzymes could efficiently increase the production of chrysolaminarin (Chrl) or lipids by regulating carbon flux distribution without impairing growth and photosynthesis in transgenic strains. Productivity evaluation indicated that UGP1 played a bigger role in regulating Chrl and lipid production than UGP2. In addition, UGP1 enhanced antioxidant capacity, whereas UGP2 was involved in sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol (SQDG) synthesis in P. tricornutum. Taken together, the present results suggest that ideal microalgal strains can be developed for the industrial production of Chrl or lipids and lay the foundation for the development of methods to improve oxidative stress tolerance in diatoms.
Complication Rates in Concurrent Inflatable Penile Prosthesis and Incontinence Surgery: Comparing the Penoscrotal Versus Perineal Incision Approach
Authors: Blum Kyle , Mehr Justin , Green Travis , Macharia Kirema , Kim Daniel , Westney Ouida , Wang Run
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Limited data exist on inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) complication rates following dual implantation with an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) or bulbourethral male sling via a single perineal incision. Herein, we assess IPP complication rates after dual implantation via a single perineal incision versus more traditional penoscrotal approach. Methods: Patients with dual implantations of an IPP and AUS or sling between the 2011-2021 were identified. Postoperative IPP complications were assessed using the Clavien-Dindo (CD) classification at <30 days, 30 days–6 months, and >6 months. Treatment satisfaction was assessed using the validated EDITS questionnaire. IPP complication rates and mean EDITS scores were compared between the perineal and penoscrotal groups. Results: A total of 38 patients underwent dual implantation; 24 perineal vs 14 penoscrotal. There was no statistical difference in rate of complications between the two groups. The penoscrotal group had only two CD Grade I complications reported in the 30-day period and one Grade III complication in the >30 day to 6-month postoperative period. The perineal group had only two Grade III reported complications in the >6 month time frame. One patient in the perineal group and two in the penoscrotal group reported device malfunction at any point during follow-up, with no statistical difference in the rate of device malfunction. Conclusion: Patients undergoing dual IPP and AUS/sling placement via a perineal vs penoscrotal incision had similar IPP complication rates. A single perineal incision is a viable surgical approach for the dual implantation of an IPP and AUS or bulbourethral male sling.
Direct yield benefits of soil carbon increases in low-carbon soils: A global meta-analysis of cover cropping co-benefits
Authors: Vendig Isaac , Guzman Aidee , De Lacerda Gisel , Esqu Kenzo , Ponisio Lauren , Bowles Timothy
Published: July 2022

Cropland management practices that restore soil organic carbon (SOC) are increasingly presented as climate solutions that provide the additional benefit of yield enhancement. But how often these benefits align at the farm level — the scale of farmers’ decision-making — remains uncertain. We examined concurrent SOC and yield responses to cover cropping, including their direct connection, with a global meta-analysis. We showed that cover cropping simultaneously increased yields and SOC in 59.7% of 434 paired observations. Direct yield benefits from SOC enhancement were evident in soils with initial SOC concentrations below 9.2 g kg-1. These yield benefits did not vary with nitrogen inputs or cover crop type, suggesting they are not substitutable with fertilization. In all types of soils, the largest yield increases (up to +20.2%) coincided with the largest SOC increases (up to +16.8%) when legume cover crops were integrated into systems with simplified rotations or with nitrogen inputs < 136 kg N ha-1 season-1, thus providing substantial benefits for farmers and society regardless of direct effects of SOC on yield.
Letrozole, an anti-proliferative agent from Glycosmis pentaphylla (Retz.) DC. downregulates the expression of cyclin D1, PCNA and Bcl – xL in human neuroblastoma cell lines
Authors: Babu Vinitha S , B Surumi , Radhamany P M , Nair A Jayakumaran
Published: July 2022

BackgroundTo evaluate the effect of letrozole, an anti-proliferating agent from Glycosmis pentaphylla (Retz.) DC. on regulating the proliferation, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis and key mechanisms in human neuroblastoma cell lines.MethodsThe human neuroblastoma cell lines, IMR 32 were treated with different doses of letrozole. The effects of letrozole on cell viability were measured by MTT assay, and the cell cycle distribution was determined by flow cytometry. The expression change in mRNA of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclin D1 and Bcl-xL were taken from real-time PCR analysis and the protein levels were detected by Western blotting.ResultsThe results of the present study showed that letrozole could cause significant inhibitory effect on proliferation of IMR 32 cells in a dose dependent manner. Cell arrest was obtained at S phase with the treatment of letrozole. Apart from this, the expression of PCNA, cyclin D1 and Bcl-xL were decreased both at mRNA and protein levels for the same treatment.ConclusionLetrozole can inhibit proliferation, induce cell arrest and cause apoptosis in IMR 32 cell lines. The decreased expression of PCNA, cyclin D1 and Bcl-xL induced by letrozole contributes to the above effects in vitro.