bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limited Impact of the Inhibitory Receptor TIGIT on NK and T Cell Responses during Toxoplasma gondii Infection
Authors: Aldridge Daniel L , Phan Anthony T , de Waal Malefyt Rene , Hunter Christopher A
Published: June 2021

Resistance to the parasite Toxoplasma gondii is mediated by NK and T cell production of IFN-γ, but the failure to contract this response can lead to severe T cell–dependent immunopathology. Although the cytokines IL-10 and IL-27 prevent immune hyperactivity during toxoplasmosis, inhibitory receptors, expressed by NK and T cells, are also implicated in this process. The inhibitory receptor TIGIT is expressed on NK and T cells and competes with the costimulatory receptor CD226 for binding of the ligand CD155. During toxoplasmosis, the activation of NK and T cells is associated with increased expression of CD226 and TIGIT, whereas DCs express increased levels of CD155. To determine if the loss of TIGIT impacts NK and T cell activities, wild-type and TIGIT knockout mice were infected with T. gondii. During the acute stage of infection, wild-type and TIGIT knockout mice had comparable parasite burdens and similar NK and T cell responses. Likewise, during the chronic phase of this infection, the loss of TIGIT did not affect the magnitude or phenotype of the T cell response nor the ability to control pathogen load. These data suggest that during toxoplasmosis, despite upregulation of relevant ligands, TIGIT signaling does not limit NK and T cell activities. Thus, TIGIT-independent mechanisms dominate the restraint of the immune response during toxoplasmosis.
Increased Radiosensitivity of Solid Tumors Harboring ATM and BRCA1/2 Mutations
Authors: Kim Kyung Hwan , Kim Han Sang , Kim Seung-seob , Shim Hyo Sup , Yang Andrew Jihoon , Lee Jason Joon Bock , Yoon Hong In , Ahn Joong Bae , Chang Jee Suk
Published: June 2021

PurposePreclinical data indicate that response to radiotherapy (RT) depends on DNA damage repair. In this study, we investigated the role of mutations in genes related to DNA damage repair in treatment outcome after RT. Materials and MethodsPatients with solid tumor who participated in next generation sequencing panel screening using biopsied tumor tissue between October 2013 and February 2019 were reviewed and 97 patients that received RT were included in this study. Best response to RT and the cumulative local recurrence rate (LRR) were compared according to absence or presence of missense, nonsense, and frameshift mutations in ATM and/or BRCA1/2. ResultsOf the 97 patients, five patients harbored mutation only in ATM, 22 in only BRCA1/2, and six in both ATM and BRCA1/2 (ATMmtBRCAmt). Propensity score matching was performed to select the control group without mutations (ATMwtBRCAwt, n=33). In total, 90 RT-treated target lesions were evaluated in 66 patients. Highest objective response rate of 80% was observed in ATMmtBRCAmt lesions (p=0.007), which was mostly durable. Furthermore, the cumulative 1-year LRR was the lowest in ATMmtBRCAmt lesions and the highest in ATMwtBRCAwt lesions (0% vs. 47.9%, p=0.008). RT-associated toxicities were observed in 10 treatments with no significant difference among the subgroups (p=0.680). ConclusionTumors with ATM and BRCA1/2 mutations exhibited superior tumor response and local control after RT compared to tumors without these mutations. The results are hypothesis generating and suggest the need for integrating the tumor mutation profile of DNA repair genes during treatment planning.
Sniffin’ Sticks Screening 12 test: Presentation of odours on filter paper improves the recognition rate
Authors: Wirkner K. , Hinz A. , Loeffler M. , Engel C.
Published: June 2021

To the Editor: Monitoring of olfactory function and diagnosis of olfactory disorders using the pen-based “Sniffin' Sticks test” is problematic during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic due to hygienic concerns. The aim of this study was to find out whether the results of olfactory testing obtained by presenting odours on a single-use filter paper is identical to performing the test by presenting the odour pens according to the manufacturer’s manual.
Immunohistochemical studies of wound healing after monopolar electrocautery and ultrasound submucosal inferior nasal turbinate reduction in sheep
Authors: Nousia C.S. , Gouveris H. , Giatromanolaki A. , Katotomichelakis M. , Ypsilantis P. , Riga M. , Sivridis E. , Watelet J.B. , van Cauwenberge P. , Danielides V.
Published: June 2021

Background: Extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as fibronectin and collagen III, enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases and macrophages have been demonstrated to intervene in nasal and paranasal sinuses wound healing. Aim of the study: To compare concentration of ECM proteins, enzymes and the recruitment of macrophages during wound repair after monopolar electrocautery in contrast with ultrasound submucosal surgical tissue reduction of inferior nasal turbinate (INT) tested in sheep. Materials and methods: Prospective controlled study in sheep. Immunostaining for collagen III, fibronectin, CD68 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) was applied in tissue specimens of INT mucosa after monopolar electrocoagulation (MEC) and ultrasound tissue reduction (UTR). Twelve INTs were studied 1, 3 and 8 weeks post-operatively in each interventional group (MEC and UTR) and 5 INTs were studied in animals of the control group (without surgery). The immunoreactivity was quantitatively graded between 0% to 100% immunoreactivity by a blinded senior pathologist. Results: At the end of the study period collagen III, fibronectin and MMP9 were increased in both groups compared to the levels of the control group. When compared to control group, CD68 immunoreactivity was found higher in MEC group but not in UTR group. Fibronectin subepithelial immunoreactivity exhibited a substantial negative correlation with mucosal epithelial cell necrosis, a substantial positive correlation with fibrosis in MEC-treated specimens and a significant positive correlation with sinusoid engorgement in UTR-treated specimens. Collagen III tissue immunoreactivity showed a particularly significant negative correlation with sinusoid engorgement in MEC-treated specimens. Conclusion: Correlation of fibronectin and collagen III immunoreactivity to histopathologic findings suggests different ECM repair processes between MEC and UTR turbinate tissue reduction. The use of CD68 and MMP9 provides additional clues to the mode of actions of these techniques and to the molecular and cellular events of the nasal mucosa wound healing process.
Expression of Trefoil factor family peptides in the nasal allergic mucosa
Authors: Miyahara N. , Ishino T. , Kono T. , Go K. , Takeno S. , Takumida M. , Hirakawa K.
Published: June 2021

Objective: Trefoil factor family peptides (TFFs) are the secretory products of mucous cells and are closely associated with mucins. TFFs appear to be important in mucosal healing processes. Although TFF1/3 are expressed in the human respiratory tract, their role in the nasal mucosa is not thoroughly understood. We investigated the association between TFFs and mucins and the role TFFs in the human nasal mucosa. Material and methods: Patients undergoing turbinectomy were included and it was determined whether patients had nasal allergies or not. The localization of TFF1/3, MUC5AC/5B expression was investigated using immunohistochemistry. The levels of the mRNA transcripts were examined using quantitative real-time PCR. Results: TFF1/3 had a similar pattern of localization in epithelial goblet cells and submucosal glandular cells. TFF1/3 co-localized with MUC5AC in the epithelium, and co-localized with MUC5B in the epithelium and the submucosal glandular cells. The levels of TFF1/3 and MUC5B mRNA in allergic patients were significantly increased. Conclusion: Our results suggest that TFF1/3 may associate with MUC5AC and MUC5B in the nasal mucosa, and that up-regulation of TFF1/3 and MUC5B may play an important role in the clinical condition of the nasal allergic mucosa.
Sublingual immunotherapy in allergic rhinitis: indications, efficacy and safety
Authors: Kariyawasam H.H. , Rotiroti G. , Robinson D.S.
Published: June 2021

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is now an established treatment for allergic rhinitis. Whilst several systematic reviews have now confirmed clinical efficacy and safety, recent analysis also confirms that therapeutic benefit persists for several years after the com- pletion of SLIT. Such findings, along with the obvious ease of administration of sublingual preparations, have clearly promoted SLIT as an attractive option for treatment of allergic rhinitis resistant to medical treatment. This article reviews the development, efficacy and safety of SLIT in allergic rhinitis and the current indications for its use.
Effects of oxymetazoline nasal spray on the nasal cycle assessed by long-term rhinoflowmetry
Authors: Braun T. , Rich M. , Berghaus A. , Kramer M.F.
Published: June 2021

Background: Long-term rhinoflowmetry assesses bilateral nasal flow over 24 hours. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of a standard dose of oxymetazoline topical nasal spray, a widely used over-the-counter drug, on the nasal cycle, since the exact long-term effects, such as the duration of the decongestive effect, are not yet reported. Methodology/principal: Thirty healthy volunteers received a portable long-term rhinoflowmetry device and applied 22.5 μg oxymetazoline in each nostril. Results: In 90 % of the probands, effects of the nasal spray application could be seen as changes in nasal flow. A decongestive effect could be seen after 18 minutes on average. We found a mean duration of the maximal decongestive effect of four hours. However, it took more than six hours on average until the nasal cycle resumed its normal condition. We did not find significant differences of the effect between probands with a 'classic,' 'in concert' or impaired nasal cycle. In contrast to a substantial interindividual variability, repeated measurements showed that intraindividual variability of the effect of decongestive nasal spray seems to be rather small. Conclusion: Long-term rhinoflowmetry, yielding reliable results, is a valuable tool in the assessment of the effects of nasal drugs on the nasal cycle.
The golden ratio in facial symmetry
Authors: Prokopakis E.P. , Vlastos I.M. , Picavet V.A. , Nolst Trenite G. , Thomas R. , Cingi C. , Hellings P.W.
Published: June 2021

Symmetry is believed to be a hallmark of appealing faces. However, this does not imply that the most aesthetically pleasing proportions are necessary those that arise from the simple division of the face into thirds or fifths. Based on the etymology of the word symmetry, as well as on specific examples and theories of beauty, we conclude that φ-value, a ratio also known as the golden ratio or the divine proportion, can also characterize symmetrical forms. Therefore, we propose the utilization of this ratio in facial aesthetics.
Paranasal sinus osteoma: is there any association with anatomical variations?
Authors: Janovic A. , Antic S. , Rakocevic Z. , Djuric M.
Published: June 2021

Background: Developmental disturbances of the paranasal sinuses are proposed as the cause of osteoma. We examined whether such disturbances may result in the frequent presence of anatomical variations of the paranasal sinuses in patients with osteoma. Methodology/principal: The study was performed retrospectively on 2,820 patients subjected to CT examination during 2005 - 2011. Demographic and CT characteristics of osteoma, and associated pathological findings were evaluated for 104 patients with diagnosed osteoma. The presence of anatomical variations was assessed for 51 osteoma patients with a complete medical history, and for 1,233 patients from a control group. Results: The prevalence of osteomas was found to be 3.69%, with male to female ratio 1.08:1. The frontal sinus was most commonly affected. The presence of anatomical variations was more frequent in patients with osteoma than in controls, with significant differences confirmed for the sphenomaxillary plate, infraorbital cell, and crista galli pneumatization. Conclusions: The paranasal sinus osteoma is associated with higher prevalence of anatomical variations. This can be explained either by the stronger influence of genetic and/or environmental factors on the development of the paranasal sinuses in patients with osteoma, or by their higher susceptibility to above mentioned factors.
Septorhinoplasty by disarticulation: early assessment of a new technique for morphological correction of crooked noses
Authors: Boulanger N. , Baumann C. , Beurton R. , Elueque H. , Gallet P. , Grosjean R. , Lindas P. , Lorentz C. , Jankowski R.
Published: June 2021

Objective: This study was aimed to assess the early morphological results of a new septorhinoplasty technique based on disarticulation (SRD) between bony and cartilaginous nose structures. Methodology: A retrospective, multi-judge, blind comparison of pre- and post-operative photographs displayed on Google documents was designed. A nasal morphology analysis grid based on 10 items was fulfilled independently by 6 judges to assess pre- and post-operatively, two times with a 15 day interval, the severity of each deformity by a score between 0 and 2. The sum of all deformities in a single patient produced the individual global score of nasal deformity, which was set between 0 and 20 for each patient. Pre- and post-operative individual global scores were compared using Student`s t test on paired samples. Percentages of post-operative improvement and deterioration were calculated for each item. Results: Thirty-five SRD were analyzed. Before surgery, 80% of noses were humped and 86% were crooked; three months after surgery, 64% of noses had a rectilinear nasal crest on profile and 57% on facial view. The mean global score of deformities drop- ped from 11.1 before surgery to 5.8 after surgery, an improvement of 47% . Improvement rates of 82% and 74.3% were obtained, respectively, for hump profiles and orbitonasal lines. Discussion: The early morphological results of SRD allow to propose this technique as a possible solution to correct crooked noses with humps.
Response of the african catfish Clarias gariepinus, Burchell 1822 to diets of comercially and locally formulated fish feed in relation to cost benefits
Authors: Solomon J.R. , Abawale I.A.
Published: June 2021

The growth performance of catfish Clarias gariepinus using imported feeds and locally made feeds of the same crude protein were compared. C. gariepinus (mean weight 12.8g) juvenile were reared in cages for a period of 12 weeks on different feed. Two imported feeds (skretting and copens) were purchased and two local feeds (corresponding to treatment) were compounded to contain the same level of crude protein. Locally ingredients used are maize, fish meal, groundnut cake, soya bean meal, bone meal, lysine, methionine, premix, vegetable oil, salt but varying fish meal and soya bean meal as follows, treatment 1- (11.38% to 7.5%), treatment 2-(7.5% to 11.38%) respectively. The pelleted feeds were fed at the rate of 5% of the fish biomass. The growth response was assessed in terms of daily weight gain, relative weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, mortality and survival rate. The results showed that the two local feeds promoted positive growth, implying that the use of different levels fish meal and soya bean meal (11.38% and 7.5%) favoured culture of juvenile C. gariepinus.Key Words, Clarias gariepinus, diet, fish feed, formulation, growth
Anticoagulant potential and total phenolic content of six species of the genus Ficus from Azad Kashmir, Pakistan
Authors: Ambreen Sumaira , Tariq Muhammad , Masoud Muhammad S. , Ali Imran , Qasim Muhammad , Mushtaq Aamar , Ahmed Maqsood , Asghar Rehana
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To investigate the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of Ficus benghalensis, Ficus elasticaa, Ficus palmata, Ficus religiosa, Ficus semicordata and Ficus auriculata, and to determine their anticoagulant potential.

Methods: Crude methanol extracts were prepared from the plant leaves, and fractionated using liquidliquid partition with n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate. The total flavonoid and total phenolic contents of the extracts and their fractions were determined. The anticoagulant potential of the six Ficus species were evaluated in healthy human plasma, using activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) methods.

Results: Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of considerable amounts of flavonoids ranging from 5.3 ± 0.7 to 11.8 ± 0.3 mg rutin equivalents (RE)/g, and phenolic compounds ranging from 8.0 ± 0.7 to 86.5 ± 1.5 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g in each fraction of the six species. Results from in vitro anticoagulant potential assays showed significant anticoagulant properties, with prothrombin time (PT) ranging from 17.7 ± 0.7 to 26.7 ± 2.2 s, and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) varying from 47.7 ± 3.3 to 72.3 ± 5.4 s.

Conclusion: The results indicate that F. semicordata and F. Religiosa have higher anticoagulant potential than the other Ficus species studied.
Effect of total flavonoids of Cuscuta chinensis Lam. (Convolvulaceae) on oxidative stress injury in mouse testis and epididymis, and on serum levels of reproductive hormones in oligoasthenospermia mice model
Authors: Cui Hongliang , Dong Panpan , Chen Bin
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of total flavonoids of Cuscuta chinensis (TFCC) on oxidative stress injury in testis and epididymis, and serum levels of reproductive hormones in an oligoasthenospermia (OAS) mice model.

Methods: Thirty male Wistar mice were randomly assigned to three groups of 10 mice each: control group, OAS group and TFCC group. With the exception of control group, OAS was orally induced in the mice with ornidazole. The TFCC group received TFCC. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined. Serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone were also measured.

Results: The levels of ROS and MDA in the testis and epididymis significantly increased in OAS group, when compared to control mice (p < 0.05). However, TFCC administration significantly reduced their levels in these tissues (p < 0.05). In contrast, SOD activity significantly decreased in the testis and epididymis of mice in OAS group, relative to control group, but increased significantly after TFCC exposure (p < 0.05). Serum FSH and LH were markedly elevated in OAS group, but treatment with TFCC significantly reduced the levels of these hormones (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These results suggest that TFCC effectively improves sperm quality and reduces oxidative damage in testis and epididymis of mice with oligoasthenospermia via a mechanism involving the regulation of serum levels of reproductive hormones. Thus, TFCC may be useful in the treatment of oligoasthenospermia.
Seven-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4- one reduces atherogenic index and Nrf2 and GPx gene expressions in hyperlipidemic rats
Authors: Prasetyastuti  , Ayunda Rahmah Dara , Sunarti
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of 7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one isolated from mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) seeds on atherogenic index, expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and expression of the glutathione peroxidase (GPx) genes in hyperlipidemic rats.

Methods: A total of 25 rats male aged 8 weeks and weighing an average of 200 g were used. They were divided into five groups as follows: (I) normal (N), (II) hyperlipidemic (HL), (III) hyperlipidemic rats treated with simvastatin (HL+SV), (IV and V) hyperlipidemic rats treated with 30 or 90mg, respectively, of 7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one per 200 g body weight per day for 4 weeks. Atherogenic index (AI) was calculated from the levels of triglyceride (TG) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) while Nrf2 and GPx gene expressions were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results: Two different doses of 7-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one in hyperlipidemic rats significantly reduced their atherogenic index (p < 0.05). Nrf2 and GPx expression levels were lower than (p > 0.05) those of hyperlipidemic group.

Conclusion: Seven-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-chromen-4-one reduces the atherogenic index and expression levels of Nrf2 and GPx genes in hyperlipidemic rats. Thus, this compound has potential as an antihyperlipidemic agent
Sun protection factor, total phenol, flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity of medicinal plants from Iran
Authors: Hashemi Zahra , Ebrahimzadeh Mohammad Ali , Khalili Masoumeh
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the correlation between sun protection factor (SPF) and the content of phenol and flavonoid and antioxidant activity.

Methods: Different parts of 9 medicinal plants were extracted with methanol using three extraction methods (percolation, Soxhlet and ultrasonically assisted extraction) to obtain 42 crude extracts. Their phenol and flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activities were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, aluminum chloride method and DPPH radical-scavenging activity, respectively. The SPF values were determined and correlated with the phenol and flavonoid contents as well as antioxidant activities.

Results: The phenol and flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activities ranged from 54.16-688.97mg GAE/g, 13.38-146.60 mg QE/g and 9.5-1472.4 µg/mL, respectively while the SPFs were between 0.067 and 0.841. The highest SPF was related to Cucumis melo L. ultrasonically assisted leaf extract (0.841) and Artemisia absinthium L., aerial parts extracted with percolation method (0.717). A significant correlation was found between SPF and phenolic (p= 0.003) and flavonoid contents (p= 0.023).

Conclusion: This study showed a correlation between SPF and phenolic and flavonoid contents. Ultrasonically assisted extract of C. melo leaf has suitable SPF and can be used in sun screen formulations.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus confers protection against colorectal cancer in rats
Authors: Huang Jian , Wang Dan , Zhang Anye , Zhong Qinglian , Huang Qun
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To investigate the protective effect and mechanism of action of Lactobacillus rhamnosus against colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods: A total of 40 healthy female Sprague Dawley rats weighing 100 – 140 g (mean weight = 120 ± 20 g) were used for this study. The rats were randomly assigned to four groups of 10 rats each: normal control group, L. rhamnosus group; 1, 2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) group and treatment group. Rats in L. rhamnosus group were inoculated with L. rhamnosus (1 x 108 CFU/mL) orally for 20 weeks, while rats in DMH group received 35 mg DMH/kg /week intraperitoneally for 10 weeks for induction of CRC. Treatment group rats received 35 mg DMH/kg bwt intraperitoneally for 10 weeks for induction of CRC, and were treated with L. rhamnosus (1 x 108 CFU/mL) orally for 20 weeks. After 20 weeks, the rats were euthanized using ether anesthesia. Expressions of inflammatory, angiogenesis and proapoptotic genes were determined using Western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results: Treatment with L. rhamnosus significantly reduced the incidence of CRC in the rats (p < 0.05). The incidence of multiple tumors in the treatment group was also significantly reduced, when compared to DMH group (p < 0.05). The protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), bcl-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor α (VEGF-α) were significantly upregulated in DMH group, when compared with normal control group (p < 0.05). However, treatment with L. rhamnosus significantly down-regulated the expressions of these proteins (p < 0.05). DMH treatment also significantly upregulated the expressions of iNOS, TNF-α, VEGF-α, NF-kB, β-catenin and bax genes (p < 0.05). However, L. rhamnosus significantly reversed the effects of DMH on the expression levels of these genes (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These results show that L. rhamnosus prevents CRC via suppression of expressions of inflammatory and angiogenesis genes, and upregulation of apoptotic gene expression.
Factors associated with poor glycemic control among type-2 diabetes mellitus patients in Yemen
Authors: Saghir Sultan A.M. , Alhariri Abdullah E.A. , Alkubat Sameer A. , Almiamn Amer A. , Aladaileh Saleem H. , Alyousefi Naelah A.
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To determine the status of glycemic control and its associated factors among adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Hodeidah City, Yemen.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved T2DM patients attending an outpatient clinic at the Military Hospital in Hodeidah, from January to March 2017. Relevant socio-demographic characteristics, clinical factors and self-management behaviours were recorded in face-to-face interviews. Blood pressure, body weight, and height measurements were also obtained. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and lipid profile were evaluated. Urine samples were also obtained and analysed by albuminuria assay.

Results: Of 246 participants, 73.2 % showed poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7 %). Female patients, those aged ≥ 40 years, the illiterate, and Khat chewers were more likely to have poor glycemic control. Moreover, longer disease duration, insulin administration and albuminuria were significantly associated with poor glycemic control. In contrast, a healthy diet, physical exercise, proper self-monitoring of blood glucose levels and taking medicines as prescribed significantly increased the likelihood of good glycemic control.

Conclusion: A majority of the Yemeni diabetic patients have poor glycemic control. To achieve better awareness, diabetes educational programs that highlight the benefits of self-management are recommended.
High androgen level causes recurrent miscarriage and impairs endometrial receptivity
Authors: Su Yan , Shi Haofan
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of androgen (A2) at different concentrations on human endometrial epithelial cancer cell line (HHUA) using iTRAQ and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LCMS/MS) analysis.

Methods: Human endometrial cells were cultured in Dulbecco Modified Eagle Medium. Total protein was isolated from human endometrial cells and HHUA cells were treated with A2 in three different concentrations (10-9 , 10-8 and 10-7 M). The proteins were digested using filter-aided sample preparation (FASP) method, and labeled using iTRAQ. The proteins were then subjected to LC-MS/MS. The resultant peptides were identified using Expasy tool, and the up-stream and down-stream proteins were confirmed. Moreover, the up-regulated proteins: isoform 2 of nuclear ubiquitous casein and cyclindependent kinase substrate 1 (NUCKS1), isoform 2 of endothelial differentiation-related factor 1 (EDF1), and acid phosphatase 1 (ACP1) were independently confirmed using western blotting and immunohistochemistry techniques.

Results: Transforming growth factor (TGF), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38-MAPK), cyclindependent kinase (CDK), and tumor protein p53 (TP53) were the major regulators of the upstream process, and were upregulated RM-linked endometrial epithelial cells. Androgen-associated proteins NUCKS1, EDF1, and ACP1 were significantly responsible for miscarriage-related changes in endometrial tissues (p < 0.05). The results showed that a high level of androgen significantly (p < 0.05) distorts the expression levels of proteins associated with endometrium development, resulting in impaired endometrial accessibility which led to miscarriage.

Conclusion: Androgen-associated proteins are responsible for changes in endometrial tissues which, in turn, lead to recurrent miscarriage.
Artemisinin derivative SM934, influences the activation, proliferation, differentiation and antibody-secreting capacity of β-cells in systemic lupus erythematosus mice via inhibition of TLR7/9 signaling pathway
Authors: Li Yajuan , Zhao Lixin , Yang Xuehui , Chen Jing , Xu Wenjing , Gu Quankai
Published: June 2021

Purpose: To study the influence of artemisinin derivative, SM934 on activation, proliferation, differentiation and antibody-secreting capacity of B cells of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) mice, and the underlying mechanism.

Methods: Female MRL/lpr mice (n = 60) were randomly assigned to four groups of 15 mice each: SLE, 2.5 mg/kg SM934; 5 mg/kg SM934, and 10 mg/kg SM934 groups. Serum levels of interleukins 6, 10, 17 and 21 (IL-6, IL-17, IL-10 and IL-21) were determined. The secretions of immunoglobulins G and M (IgG and IgM) by B cells were determined. The population of B lymphocyte subtypes was determined flow cytometrically. The expressions of Blimp-1 and Bcl-6, Toll-like receptors 7 and 9 (TLR7 and TLR9) mRNAs were determined.

Results: SLE-induced upregulation of serum IL-10, IL-6, IL-17 and IL-21 was significantly and dosedependently reduced following a 2-month treatment with SM934 (p < 0.01). Treatment with SM934 significantly and dose-dependently accentuated B cell germinal center B cell populations, but significantly and dose-dependently decreased the populations of plasma and activated B cells (p < 0.01). The splenic levels of IgG and IgM were decreased in a dose-dependent fashion after 8 weeks of treatment (p < 0.01). Artemisinin derivative SM934 decreased the expression of Blimp-1, and upregulated the expression of Bcl-6, both in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.01). Moreover, SM934 decreased the mRNA expressions of TLR7 and TLR9 in a dose-based manner (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Artemisinin derivative SM934 mitigates LSE syndromes by suppressing the TLR-induced B-cell stimulation and plasma cell generation
Nocturnal enuresis among children in Morogoro region in Tanzania: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Kilongo Nehemia , Furia Francis F.
Published: June 2021

Background: Enuresis is common childhood disorders which affecting quality of life of children and causing significant psychosocial disturbances to children and their families. This condition has been widely reported globally with increasing data from sub-Saharan African region. In Tanzania there is no reports on its magnitude and therefore this study was carried out with the aim of determine the prevalence of this condition among children in Tanzania.Methods: This was a community based cross-sectional study conducted among children aged between 5 and 14 years recruited from 12 streets in Morogoro Municipality in Tanzania. Standardized Swahili questionnaire was used to collect data including socio-demographic details of parents,  children and presence of enuresis. Socio-demographic data included age of the child, sex, level of education of the parents, education of the child, presence of bed wetting, history of enuresis in the family.Results: Five hundred and ten children were recruited into this study out of which 271 (53.1%) were females and mean age of study participants was 9±2.8 years. Enuresis was noted in 19% (97/510) of children, 68% (66/97) and 32% (31/97) had primary and secondary enuresis respectively. Significantly higher prevalence rates of enuresis were noted for children aged below 8 years 26.4% (43/162) and those with family history of enuresis 47% (18/38) with p values of 0.01 and < 0.001 respectively. Forty-one (42.3%) out of 97 respondents whose children had enuresis reported to have punished their children and only 21.4% (20/97) reported to have sought treatment for their children.Conclusions: Enuresis is common among children in Tanzania particularly those with positive family history. Punishment to children with enuresis was noted in this study and only one in five parents/guardians sought treatment for their affected children. Therefore, there is a need for initiatives for raising community awareness about enuresis in Tanzania

Key words: Enuresis in children, prevalence of enuresis in Tanzania, factors affecting enuresis in children.
Intestinal Amebiasis and associated risk factors among pregnant Women attending University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Authors: Abubakar Abubakar , Balla Habiba J. , Abdullahi Idris N. , Zakari Maryam M. , Umar Kabir , Musa Muhammad H. , Yunusa Thairu
Published: June 2021

Background: Entameba histolytica (E. histolytica), the etiological agent of intestinal amebiasis poses significant community health concern especially in pregnant woman due to their physiological status. Pregnancy-induced immunodeficiency can lead to reduced IgA activities which makes pregnant women susceptible to penetration of intestinal mucosal linings and placental barrier especially by E. histolytica. Objective of studyThis study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of intestinal amebiasis among pregnant women with acute diarrhea (˂3 days post onset) attending University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), Maiduguri, Nigeria.Materials and Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 randomly selected acute diarrheic pregnant women attending UMTH. Fresh fecal samples were collected and immediately analyzed microscopically for E. histolytica oocytes using iodine wet  preparation method. Structured questionnaires were used to assess sociodemographic variables and risk factors for amebiasis. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 (IBM, California Inc., USA).Results: Out of the 200 fecal samples analyzed for E. histolytica, 10 (5%) were positive. Those infected by moderate E. histolytica cysts had the highest occurrence rate, 4 (40%) and least by those infected by many E. histolytica cysts, 1 (10%). E. histolytica infection was associated with rural residence (OR=6.86 [95% CI:1.42-33.2]), lower Socioeconomic status (OR=22.0 [95% CI: 4.69-103.1]) and primigravity (OR= 5.76 [95% CI:1.19-27.8]) (p˂0.05). Drinking water from borehole (OR=0.24 [95% CI: 0.06-0.95], p=0.043) and large household (OR=0.1 [95% CI: 0.02-0.41], p=0.001) were significant risk factors of intestinal amebiasis.Conclusion: The results indicate that E. histolytica infection is one of the etiological agents of acute diarrhea in study participants. Its recommended that pregnant women should avoid risk factors for intestinal amebiasis identified in this study.

Keywords: Immunosuppression, Amebiasis, Risk factors, Diarrhea.
Assessing Concordance to an Intensified Upendo Ward Wilms Tumor Treatment Protocol in Tanzania: An Institutional Review
Authors: Nyagabona Sarah , Sama Godfrey , Mkuchika Evelyne , Dharsee Nazima , Scanlan Patricia
Published: June 2021

Background: In Tanzania Wilms tumor (WT) ranks second among the most frequently diagnosed childhood cancer. Due to late presentation an intensified treatment protocol was established aiming for tumor reduction before surgery for achieving better surgical outcomes. We used two indicators for measuring the protocol concordance. First indicator was assessing the number of patients that received radiotherapy and second was number of patients treated with the high-risk regimen as per the protocol indications.Methodology: This was a cross sectional study. Data was collected using a retrospective chart review of all children with WT at Muhimbili National Hospital Pediatric Oncology Unit for a period between April 2016 to May 2017 who were treated using the intensified treatment protocol (combination of two WT protocols with neoadjuvant as per SIOP-PODC and adjuvant as per modified SIOP International). Analysis was conducted using excel sheet and SPSS v20.Results: A total of 74 children were eligible. The median age was 3 years ranging from 6 months to 17 years with small female predisposition of 57% (n=42). On clinical presentation all patients presented with history of abdominal swelling. In terms of clinical stage; 45% (n= 33) and 43% (n= 32) presented with stage 4 and 3 disease, respectively. Radiotherapy treatment was administered to 30% (n=22). As per protocol stage III and IV disease require radiotherapy thus only 34% of eligible candidates received radiotherapy. On histology report; 34% (n = 25) reports were never found and 66% (n=49) were available. High-risk cases were 27% (n = 20). We noted high-risk regimen was given to 12% (n=9) of study participants; thus only 45% of eligible candidates received high-risk regimen. All patient had intention to treat on admission with noted 19% (n = 14) default rate.Conclusion: Measuring concordance with guidelines allows for identification of best practices, which in turn inform on quality improvements. This snapshot identified opportunities for improvement in protocol uptake in our unit.

Key words: Wilms Tumor, low income country, pediatric malignancy.
Impact of Training to Improve Knowledge on Blood Transfusion among Health Care Providers from Tertiary Hospitals in Tanzania
Authors: Bhombo Abdu J. , Mwashiuya Oscar , Mauka Wilhellmuss I. , Meda Elineema , Ngerageza Iragi , Furia Francis F. , Lyimo Magdalena A.
Published: June 2021

Background: Blood transfusion is a lifesaving therapy which is linked to the adverse outcome when given inappropriately. Inadequate knowledge and skills among health care providers have been reported to contribute to safety issues for recipients and wastage of the precious resource. This study was conducted to determine the impact of training of health care providers in Tanzania on improving the knowledge regarding the transfusion of blood and blood components.Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study which used secondary data from pre and post training assessment questionnaire whereby trainees answered the same set of questions before training (pre-test) and after training (post-test). The questionnaire consisted of two Likert scale questions and eight YES/NO questions which assessed the perception of clinicians, nurses and Laboratory personnel on blood transfusion practices. Moreover, there were thirty multiple-choice questions for assessment of basic knowledge related to usage of blood and blood components.Results: One hundred and eleven (111) health care providers who attended training on blood transfusion were recruited into this study, out of which 72.1% (80/111) were from secondary health care facilities and 6.3% (7/111) were from tertiary health care facilities. The pre-test mean percent score was 32.8% (SD ±12.9%), while the post-test mean percent score was 56.6% (SD ±12.9%). The mean percentage of knowledge gain was 26.6% (SD±13.0%) and 27.1% (SD±12.5%) for health care providers and National Blood Transfusion Service staff respectively. It was observed that only 25.8% (24/93) and 19% (19/100) of participants were aware of the transfusion timing of various blood components and principles of platelet transfusion, respectively. Regarding bedside blood handling practices, only 52.9% (46/87) responded, ‘warm whole blood unit and packed red blood by putting under room temperature for 30 minutes and the majority of participants 63.1% (65/103) reported not to ask for consent before blood transfusion.Conclusion: There was a modest improvement in the knowledge on blood transfusion practice among participants. The overall performance of participants increased from 33% in the pre-test to 57% in the post-test. Therefore, this study has shown the positive impact of training for health care providers in improving their knowledge. We recommend regular on job training courses and mentorship program for health care providers for proficiency in clinical transfusion practice.

Key words: Blood Transfusion, Training and Health care providers.
A Retrospective Study of Patients with Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer at Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania
Authors: Nyongole Obadia V. , Kivuyo Nashivai E. , Mushi Fransia A. , Akoko Larry O. , Mizinduko Mucho , Mtaturu Gabriel F. , Aboud Muhsin , Mkony Charles A.
Published: June 2021

Background: Prostate cancer (PC) is a common health problem among men globally with high incidence and mortality. The mortality following PC is associated with advanced disease progressing to castrate resistance following androgen ablation therapies. While advances to addresscastrate resistant prostatic cancer (CRPC) have shown good results, the burden of castrate resistant cancer in Tanzania has remained unknown hence our patients cannot benefit from such advances. This study therefore aimed to determine the magnitude and clinical presentation among patients with a diagnosis of castrate resistant cancer at Muhimbili National Hospital in 2018-2019.

Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive hospital based study carried out at Muhimbili National Hospital. Patients who were treated with androgen blockade, had evidence of attainment of castrate levels of testosterone with a diagnosis of castrate resistant prostate cancer were identified. Information regarding primary prostatic cancer treatment, clinical disease progression symptoms, and age of the patients were collected. Descriptive statistics were prepared and summarized as tables and figures.

Results: We recruited 293 patients with prostate cancer treated by androgen deprivation therapy. Bilateral orchiectomy was the most common treatment modality offered for advanced PC. Castrate levels of testosterone were achieved in 189 (95.5%) of the patients who had testosterone levels checked. Ninety-Six (50.8%) had met the criteria for diagnosis of castrate resistant prostate cancer with mean age of 71.23±4.2 years. Patients presented with lower urinary tract symptoms and metastatic features. Most of the patients had a poorly differentiated histology with prostate specific antigen (PSA) over 100ng/l. Only 13.5% of the patients had spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for their work up.

Conclusion and recommendation: Half of patients treated for advanced PC at MNH will progress to castrate resistance following androgen deprivation therapy. More studies are needed to understand the predictors of CRPC and related treatment strategies.

Key words: Castrate Resistant Prostate cancer, androgen deprivation therapy, advanced prostate cancer
Gaseous Emission from the Combustion of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company (KRPC) in Nigeria
Authors: Adedayo Osunnusi Oluwaseun , Abidemi Oke Michael , Leke Odekanle Ebenezer , Ademola Sonibare Jacob , Ayodele Ige Oluwafunmiso , Oyeleke Oyewale Babatunde , Ayodele Odewale Stephen
Published: June 2021

Objectives : This study characterizes the gaseous emission from the combustion of PMS of different volumes from Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company.Methods : The E8500 plus combustion analyzer was used for gaseous emission characterization of different volumes. Oxygen (O2), Hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), Oxides of Nitrogen NOx (NO, NO2), Sulphur dioxide (SO2), and Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) were measured using the analyzer. The values were recorded and the descriptive statistics graph was plotted.Results and Discussion : The concentrations for the gaseous emission from the combustion of PMS were 69.85 mg/m3 HC, 117.33 mg/m3 CO, 334 mg/m3 NOx for 10 ml, 58.93 mg/m3 HC, 130.33 mg/m3 CO, 784.33 mg/m3 NOx for 20 ml, 50.20 mg/m3 HC, 84.00 mg/m3 CO, 798.67 mg/m3 NOx for 30 ml, 65.48 mg/m3 HC, 160.33 mg/m3 CO, 850.33 mg/m3 NOx for 40 ml, 87.31 mg/m3 HC, 212.67 mg/m3 CO, 801.33 mg/m3 NOx, 3.67 mg/m3 SO2 for 50 ml. This study shows that CO and HC exceeded the permissible limit for stationary sources while NOx and SO2 were below the permissible limit.Conclusions : Hence, there is a need for rapid response and urgent attention from government and regulatory bodies to develop and implement appropriate policies that will help in reducing the effect. Appropriate measures to control air emissions that may be embarked upon by regulatory bodies include increase in the use of low-emission fuels and renewable fuels such as bio-fuels and introduction of the use of devices with low CO emissions.
Comparison Between Random Forest and Recurrent Neural Network for Photovoltaic Power Forecasting
Authors: Kim Ramek , Kim Kyungmin , Ahn Johng-Hwa
Published: June 2021

Objectives : Photovoltaic power generation which significantly depends on meteorological conditions is intermittent and unstable. Therefore, accurate forecasting of photovoltaic power generation is a challenging task. In this research, random forest (RF), recurrent neural network (RNN), long short term memory (LSTM), and gated recurrent unit (GRU) are proposed and we will find an efficient model for forecasting photovoltaic power generation of photovoltaic power plants.Methods : We used photovoltaic power generation data from photovoltaic power plants at Gamcheonhang-ro, Saha-gu, Busan, and meteorological data from Busan Regional Meteorological Administration. We used solar irradiance, temperature, atmospheric pressure, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, duration of sunshine, and cloud amount as input variables. By applying the trial and error method, we optimized hyperparameters such as estimators in RF, and number of hidden layers, number of nodes, epochs, and validation split in RNN, LSTM, and GRU. We compared proposed models by evaluation indexes such as coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE).Results and Discussion : The best RF at 1,000 of number of decision tree achieved test R2=0.865, test RMSE=16.013, and test MAE=9.656. The best choice of RNN was 6 hidden layers and the number of nodes in each layer was 90. We set the epochs at 450. RNN achieved test R2=0.942, test RMSE=10.530, and test MAE=6.390. To find the best result of LSTM, we used 3 hidden layers, and the number of nodes was 600. The epochs were set to 200. LSTM achieved test R2=0.944, test RMSE=10.29, and test MAE=6.360. GRU was set to 3 hidden layer and the number of nodes was 450. The epochs were set to 500. GRU achieved test R2=0.945, test RMSE=10.189, and test MAE=5.968.Conclusions : We found RNN, LSTM, and GRU performed better than RF, and GRU model showed the best performance. Therefore, GRU is the most efficient model to predict photovoltaic power generation in Busan, Korea.