bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A convenient research strategy for functional verification of epigenetic regulators during spermatogenesis
Authors: Li Shan , Yuan Ying , Zhang Ke-Yu , Guo Yi-Dan , Wang Lu-Tong , Zhang Xiao-Yuan , Zhang Shu , Yan Qi , Zhang Rong , Chen Jie , Yang Feng-Tang , Li Jing-Rui 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a fundamental process that requires a tightly controlled epigenetic event in spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). The mechanisms underlying the transition from SSCs to sperm are largely unknown. Most studies utilize gene knockout mice to explain the mechanisms. However, the production of genetically engineered mice is costly and time-consuming. In this study, we presented a convenient research strategy using an RNA interference (RNAi) and testicular transplantation approach. Histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methylation was dynamically regulated during spermatogenesis. As Jumonji domain-containing protein 1A (JMJD1A) and Jumonji domain-containing protein 2C (JMJD2C) demethylases catalyze histone H3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2), we firstly analyzed the expression profile of the two demethylases and then investigated their function. Using the convenient research strategy, we showed that normal spermatogenesis is disrupted due to the downregulated expression of both demethylases. These results suggest that this strategy might be a simple and alternative approach for analyzing spermatogenesis relative to the gene knockout mice strategy.
Case report of idiopathic scapular dyskinesia: Revisiting involuntary scapular movements from a neurologist’s perspective
Authors: Chouksey Anjali , Majigoudra Ganeshgouda 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Scapular dyskinesia, one of the rare forms of focal dyskinesia, is usually considered a peripheral induced movement disorder (PIMD), occurring in the background of previous trauma or surgery. Different terms are used interchangeably with scapular dyskinesia, many of which are misleading. In this article, we present 2 cases of patients with abnormal involuntary scapular movement suggestive of scapular dyskinesia. In both cases, there is no history of preceding trauma or surgical intervention. We will review the literature and try to understand the fundamental difference between the various terms used for abnormal scapular movement in literature. Our cases highlight the difference between the two commonly used terms for scapular movement, i.e., scapular dyskinesia and scapular dyskinesis. We further suggest that shoulder girdle dyskinesia should be preferred over scapular dyskinesia. Although scapular dyskinesia is often considered PIMD, not all cases of scapular dyskinesia are peripherally induced.
Safety and Efficacy Evaluation of PerkinRA in Comparison with Kineret in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Patients
Authors: Mirzaee Azadeh Zeinab , Sadeghi Setayesh , Shiari Reza , Ziaee Vahid , Karagah Amirhossein , Sinaei Reza , Ghotbabadi Shabnam Hajiani , Tahghighi Fatemeh , Fathi Mohammad Reza , Shirvani Armin , Miremarati Aye , Ghasemi Leila , Rahmani Khosro , Araghi Shahram , Parvaneh Vadood Javadi , Jaffaraghaei Morteza , Mohammadkarim Alireza 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) is marked with arthritis and several features of systemic inflammation, including fever, rashes, hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, and serositis. Interleukin-1 receptor blockers have been used as one of the most effective biologics for the treatment of resistant types of disease. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PerkinRA in comparison with Kineret in patients with sJIA.

Methods:
This was a double-blind, randomized clinical trial conducted on 72 patients with sJIA. The patients were enrolled based on the 2018 International League of Associations for Rheumatology criteria and were treated at the outpatient clinic of Mofid Children’s Hospital, Pediatric Medical Center, and four other centers between February 2020 and March 2021. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to one of two treatment groups: one group received PerkinRA (manufactured by Persis Gene, n = 36), while the other group received Kineret (manufactured by SOBI, n = 36). The primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients achieving an American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 30, ACR 50, and ACR 70 response. Secondary outcomes included changes in vital signs, incidence of adverse events, clinical laboratory assessments, and findings from physical examinations. These parameters were evaluated at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 weeks after the first injection, and the two treatment groups were compared.

Results:
A total of 35 patients in the PerkinRA group and 32 patients in the Kineret group were included in the final analysis. The results showed no clinically significant differences between the two treatment groups. Patients in both the PerkinRA and Kineret groups achieved similar proportions of ACR 30, ACR 50, and ACR 70 responses over the 6-month evaluation period.

Conclusion:
Based on the findings of this study, the two investigational medications, PerkinRA and Kineret, demonstrated comparable efficacy in the treatment of sJIA. The two treatment groups showed no significant differences in the primary and secondary outcomes assessed. Therefore, it can be concluded that PerkinRA and Kineret are noninferior to each other for the management of sJIA.
Assessment of the Potential Impact of Mycophenolate Mofetil on Lowering Renal Biomarkers in Patients with Class III Lupus Nephritis: A Pilot Study to Predict Renal Function Progress
Authors: Mohammed Nadia H. , Al-Taie Anmar , Al-Sultany Fadia H. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Lupus nephritis (LN) is a potentially severe complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is an oral immunosuppressive agent used in lupus patients who are intolerant of or refractory to other conventional therapies. The aim of this study was to assess the potential effect of MMF on lowering some biomarkers as a predictive of renal function in patients with Class III LN.

Methods:
This was a single-center, prospective cohort study that enrolled patients with Class III LN who received 2 g/day of oral MMF. The potential impact of MMF on renal biomarkers was evaluated at baseline and subsequently at 3-month intervals for 6 months according to changes in antinuclear antibodies (ANA), antidouble stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (anti-dsDNA), elastase α-1 proteinase inhibitor (α-1 PI), proteinuria, and the urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (P/C ratio).

Results:
A significant decrease over the course of MMF treatment compared to the baseline regarding ANA (1.37 ± 0.47 vs. 2.90 ± 1.05, P = 0.03); anti-dsDNA (23.39 ± 3.19 vs. 39.91 ± 8.1 IU/mL, P = 0.02); elastase α-1 PI (512.4 ± 74.12 vs. 696.35 ± 105.35 ng/mL, P = 0.03); proteinuria (0.25 ± 0.44 vs. 1.95 ± 0.76 g/24 h., P = 0.01); and P/C ratio (0.20 ± 0.22 vs. 1.37 ± 0.26, P = 0.04).

Conclusion:
MMF is effective in lowering renal biomarkers of Class III LN revealed by a significant reduction in ANA, anti-dsDNA, elastase α-1 PI, proteinuria, and P/C ratio over 6 months of MMF treatment.
Seroprevalence and Clinical Profile of Leptospirosis and Scrub Typhus in Clinically Suspected Patients at a Tertiary Care Center: A Retrospective Study from Theni, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Ramlingam Gopinath , Muthukumar Arundadhi , Aridass Dhanasezhian , Ganesan Sucila Thangam 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:

Leptospirosis and Scrub typhus are zoonotic illnesses that are found worldwide. Scrub typhus is a rickettsial infection caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi and spread through the biting of a mite’s chigger. Leptospirosis is an anthropozoonotic illness that can be found anywhere but is most common in tropical and subtropical areas. In this study, we report the seroprevalence of Scrub typhus and Leptospirosis with relation to demographic factors in clinically suspected patients attending a tertiary care hospital in Theni, Tamil Nadu.

Methods:
This is a retrospective study in which 9574 serum samples from clinically suspected cases were collected from January 2018 to December 2023 and tested for immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies for Scrub typhus using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and rapid test. A blood sample was taken from each patient, and an IgM ELISA was performed to make the diagnosis. The ELISA cut-off was determined.

Results:
In this study, 9574 probable cases, 4306 were examined for Leptospira IgM ELISA and 5268 for Scrub typhus IgM ELISA. Out of 4306 suspected Leptospira cases, 167 (3.8%) were positive and 485 (9.2%) were positive in 5268 suspected Scrub typhus cases. The bulk of Leptospirosis and Scrub typhus cases were in the 21–40 years’ age range, followed by the 0–20 years’ age range. Males were found to have higher seroprevalence (57.1%) than females (42.9%).

Conclusions:

Scrub typhus and leptospirosis are developing infections, and prompt treatment can save many lives. It is strongly advised to take a programmatic approach to the prevention, control, and management of these developing diseases.
Polymorphisms in MicroRNA Biogenesis Genes and the Risk of Preeclampsia in Jordan
Authors: Makhlouf Sahar Jawad , Khabour Omar Falah , Rawashdeh Hasan Mohammad , Sakee Baraa Layth 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Preeclampsia (PE) is a serious pregnancy condition with a complex etiology involving both environmental and genetic factors. This study investigated the association between polymorphisms in the microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis genes DICER (rs3742330) and RAN (rs14035) and the risk of PE among Jordanian women.

Methods:
A total of 224 pregnant Jordanian women were recruited. Genotypes of rs3742330 and rs14035 were determined using polymerase chain reaction techniques. This was a cross-sectional case–control study conducted in Jordan. Genotype and allele frequencies were compared using Chi-square tests, and hematological parameters were compared using t-tests.

Results:
The G allele and AG/GG genotypes of rs3742330 were more frequent in the PE group than controls (P < 0.05). However, no association was found between rs14035 and PE. Higher body mass index (BMI) was associated with increased PE risk (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:
The DICER rs3742330 polymorphism and increased BMI were associated with PE in Jordanian pregnant women. This suggests that genetic variations in miRNA biogenesis pathways may contribute to the development of PE.
Multidrug-resistant Organism and Antibiotic Sensitivity Patterns, before, during, and after the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic in the Dr. M. Djamil Central General Hospital, Padang, Indonesia
Authors: Fadrian Fadrian , Linosefa Linosefa , Ahmad Armen , Simanjuntak Rohayat Bilmahdi , Aisy Rohadatul 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted the prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity patterns of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). This study aimed to investigate the MDRO incidence and antibiotic sensitivity trends before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic at Dr. M. Djamil Central General Hospital in Padang, Indonesia.

Methods:
A total of 5539 clinical samples were collected and analyzed using the VITEK2 system to identify MDRO types. The study periods were defined as before (prepandemic), during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results:
The incidence of MDROs increased significantly during and after the pandemic, with 1.64 and 1.42 times higher rates compared to the prepandemic period, respectively. Specific MDRO types that showed increased prevalence included Escherichia coli-producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (Eco-ESBL), carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP), carbapenem-resistant E. coli (CREC), carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Antibiotic sensitivity decreased during and after the pandemic for K. pneumoniae-producing ESBL s, CRKP, and CRAB, as well as for CREC and CRPA during the pandemic. In contrast, antibiotic sensitivity increased for Eco-ESBL and MRSA during and after the pandemic.

Conclusion:
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly contributed to the increased incidence of MDROs and decreased antibiotic effectiveness against these pathogens in the study setting. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive infection control measures and antimicrobial stewardship programs to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on MDRO epidemiology.
Identification and Evaluation of Survival-associated Common Chemoresistant Genes in Cancer
Authors: Patel Mansi , Singh Pratik , Gandupalli Lithip , Gupta Reeshu 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Chemoresistance is a major challenge in the effective treatment of cancer patients. This study aimed to identify common chemoresistance-associated genes that impact cancer survival.

Methods:
RNA-sequencing datasets for colorectal cancer (CRC) and ovarian cancer (OC) were analyzed using the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database and R Studio. Survival analysis was conducted using patient data from the cBioPortal database, where patients were stratified into high- and low-risk groups based on gene expression levels. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to compare the binding energies of inhibitors targeting the identified genes.

Results:
Six common chemoresistance-associated genes were identified in both CRC and OC: cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), inhibitor of differentiation (ID1), DUSP6, c-JUN, PLA2G2A, and SKP2. The expression of these genes was also evaluated in chemosensitive and chemoresistant oral cancer samples. Survival analysis revealed that high expression of CDK2 and ID1 significantly reduced the disease-free survival (DFS) of CRC and oral cancer patients with Grade II, III, or IV tumors. Conversely, low expression of ID1 was associated with reduced DFS in OC patients. Molecular simulations showed that the inhibitors dinaciclib (for CDK2) and vinblastine (for ID1) had higher binding energies compared to other inhibitors.

Conclusion:
The present study highlights the significance of CDK2 and ID1 as important mediators of chemoresistance and their potential as therapeutic targets to improve the survival of cancer patients exhibiting drug resistance.
Comparison of American Thyroid Association and Conventional Criteria in Diagnosing Hypothyroidism among Pregnant Ladies Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Dutta Mita , Islam Mohammad Aminul , Tabassum Maliha , Islam Md. Shafikul , Rezwana Israt , Sumyia Umme , Ghosh Parijat , Afsana Faria , Amin Md. Feroz , Pathan Md. Faruque 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
There is continuing debate regarding universal screening, the use of a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) cutoff value, and levothyroxine replacement in frequently encountered issues like subclinical hypothyroidism in pregnancy. The study was intended to compare the American Thyroid Association (ATA)-2011 defined trimester-specific TSH with conventional TSH values in the diagnosis of newly detected hypothyroidism in pregnancy, as there are no trimester-specific reference ranges of TSH in Bangladesh.

Methods:
This cross-sectional, observational study enrolled 175 pregnant women recruited by convenient sampling from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BIRDEM General Hospital. As per the study protocol, investigations were advised. TSH, free thyroxine, and antithyroid antibodies were tested using the chemiluminescent technique. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 25. Nonparametric tests were chosen for statistical analysis.

Results:
The majority (53%) of the participants, were 30 years of age or younger. Using the ATA-2011 defined trimester-specific reference ranges of TSH, 32% had hypothyroidism. While using the conventional criteria (TSH – 0.4–4 mIU/L), hypothyroidism was diagnosed in 20.6% of cases.

Conclusions:
There is statistically significant discordance in diagnosing hypothyroidism in pregnancy between the two criteria.
Modulation of Neurotransmission by Acid-Sensing Ion Channels
Authors: Wu Pu-Yeh , Lien Cheng-Chang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Interstitial pH fluctuations occur normally in the brain and significantly modulate neuronal functions. Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs), which serve as neuronal acid chemosensors, play important roles in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. However, the specific mechanisms by which ASICs influence neurotransmission remain elusive. Here, we report that ASICs modulate transmitter release and axonal excitability at a glutamatergic synapse in the rat and mouse hippocampus. Blocking ASIC1a channels with the tarantula peptide psalmotoxin 1 down-regulates basal transmission and alters short-term plasticity. Notably, the effect of psalmotoxin 1 on ASIC-mediated modulation is age-dependent, occurring only during a limited postnatal period (postnatal weeks 2–6). This finding suggests that protons, through the activation of ASICs, may act as modulators in synapse formation and maturation during early development.
The Flip and Fix internal limiting flap technique versus the classic temporal flap for macular hole repair
Authors: Abou Shousha Mohsen , Lolah Mohamed M , Ahmed Islam S H 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
To describe a novel technique of macular hole (MH) repair and compare it to the perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL)-assisted temporal internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique.

Methods:
Twenty-two eyes of 22 patients with MH were randomized on a 1:1 basis into two groups. Group A cases were treated using the Flip and Fix technique, in which the single-layer ILM flap was flipped, flattened over the macula using PFCL, and fixed in place using two drops of autologous nonheparinized blood over the superonasal and inferonasal edges of the flap (away from the MH center). Group B patients had the classic temporal ILM flap technique without using the PFCL or autologous blood. All patients were followed up for a period of 6 months after the surgery.

Results:
No significant difference was observed in initial and final visual acuities between Groups A and B. Intraoperative flap displacement did not occur in Group A and occurred in two eyes in Group B (18.2%). One of them showed failed MH closure and required reoperation. These two cases had a final (W shape) MH closure and a worse final vision than the remaining cases, which had either a U shape or V shape final MH closure.

Conclusions:
The study results show that the Flip and Fix technique is as effective as the PFCL-assisted temporal ILM flap technique and is associated with less ILM flap displacement risk for the repair of macular holes.
Rupture of liver myelolipoma in a patient who underwent mitral valve replacement 16 years ago: A case report
Authors: Sayar Ufuk , Küçük Hatice 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
Myelolipoma is a rarely encountered benign tumour of the liver. Patients may be asymptomatic or may present with clinical signs such as silent hepatomegaly, pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, and anorexia. The patient, who had a history of mitral valve replacement, had been on warfarin for 16 years. The pain, which began in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen two days ago, has since spread to the entire abdomen. The patient, who was in hypovolemic shock, underwent an exploratory laparotomy with a preliminary diagnosis of bleeding. During the procedure, a ruptured mass in the liver was incidentally discovered. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations revealed that the mass consisted of fat and bone marrow cells, leading to a definitive diagnosis of myelolipoma. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of spontaneous rupture of a liver myelolipoma in the literature.
Clinico-pathological association of BCL2 in invasive breast carcinoma: A study from tertiary care health centre in Northern India
Authors: Tiwari Sarjana , Kaur Kanwalpreet 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) is an antiapoptotic protein and an important clinical breast cancer prognostic marker. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the BCL2 expression and clinico-pathological parameters in breast cancer.

Materials and Methods:
Present study is observational cross-sectional study of 100 biopsy proven cases of breast cancer, and cases with resection specimens were included. IHC analyses for ER, PR, Her2neu, Ki67 and Bcl2 were performed in each case.

Results:
Bcl2 expression was seen in 52% cases. BCL2-positive expression was associated with lower histological grade (0.026), low Ki-67 level (<14%, P < 0.001), hormone receptor positivity (P < 0.001) and luminal breast cancer (P < 0.001) but no association with tumour size, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion and TNM stage.

Conclusion:
Expression of Bcl-2, an antiapoptotic protein, is associated with low-grade, slowly proliferating, luminal A-type BC. IHC analysis of Bcl-2 is simple, inexpensive, readily available test to stratify early-stage hormone-positive patients who can be included in clinical trials for Bcl-2 inhibitors.
A rare case of concurrent JAK2V617F-positive essential thrombocythemia, multiple myeloma, and colorectal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Fenghong , Chen Yu , Huang Dongping , Chen Suning 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
Multiple myeloma (MM), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and colorectal adenocarcinoma (CA) are three distinct diseases. The co-occurrence of MM, ET, and CA in a single patient is exceedingly rare. Our study presents a remarkable case involving a 75-year-old patient who was simultaneously diagnosed with these three diseases. The JAK2V617F mutation was detected in the bone marrow with a variant allele frequency (VAF) of 13.38%, whereas the isolated CD138-positive plasma cells exhibited a significantly lower VAF of 0.38%. This notable difference implies the potential for separate origins of MM and ET. Additionally, the patient responded well to a bortezomib-based treatment regimen, despite the absence of specific therapy for ET. We believe that our findings add new understanding to these rare diseases and encourage further research in this area.