bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the COVID-19 on Bystanderism: Does a Pandemic Change the Canadian Public’s Willingness to Help during Cardiac Arrest Emergency?
Authors: Dainty Katie , Brooks Steven , Grunau Brian , Kline Scott , Shore Megan
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Bystander CPR rates have increase from 15% to 30% in many countries over the last 20 years. However, these gains are at risk of being lost in the face of fear of transmission of the SARS-COV-2 virus given the global COVID-19 pandemic. This survey study was designed to examine the opinions and perceptions of the Canadian public on bystanderism as it relates to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest during the COVID-19 pandemic with a view to understanding the implications of those opinions on our expectations of bystanders during, and after the pandemic. Methods: In order to capture a pan-Canadian sample of the general public, we engaged with a well-established public opinion polling vendor, IPSOS (www.ipsos.com), to conduct a robust survey on public willingness to do bystander CPR in the context of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Results: A total of n=1,000 surveys were completed by Canadian adults using the IPSOS eNation Canadian Online Omnibus survey platform.In summary there were five key findings from this pan-Canadian survey: 1) the ability to recognize cardiac arrest remains a point of confusion for the lay public, 2) at the time of the survey only about half of respondents said they would respond to someone having cardiac arrest, 3) the majority of respondents said the pandemic has changed their willingness to respond to someone in cardiac arrest, 4) willingness to use an AED is low and the greatest barrier was reported as lack of experience, and lastly 5) most Canadians say it is important to be certified in CPR and are willing to take a CPR training course, however only half are willing to pay for it. Conclusion: Bystander CPR is an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victim’s best chance of survival and so our understanding of how we encourage more citizens to respond given the current realities is more crucial than ever. Wider dissemination of the growing evidence on the safety of CPR in the context of COVID-19 and resuscitation training courses implemented with specific CPR maneuvers to reduce the risk of infection should be implemented to continued uncertainty and erosion in bystander CPR culture.
The Effect of Temperature on the Embryo Development of Sepiella japonica Suggests Crosstalk Between Autophagy and Apoptosis
Authors: Liu Yifan , Chen Long , Meng Fang , Zhang Tao , Luo Jun , Chen Shuang , Shi Huilai , Lv Zhenming , Liu Bingjian
Published: September 2023

Temperature is a crucial environmental factor that affects embryonic development, particularly for marine organisms with long embryonic development periods. However, the sensitive period of embryonic development and the role of autophagy/apoptosis in temperature regulation in cephalopods, enigmatic creatures, remain unclear. In this study, we cultured embryos of Sepiella japonica, a typical species in the local area of the East China Sea, at different incubation temperatures (18 ℃, 23 ℃, and 28 ℃) to investigate various developmental aspects, including morphological and histological characteristics, mortality rates, the duration of embryonic development, and expression patterns of autophagy-related genes (LC3, BECN1, Inx4) and apoptosis marker genes (Cas3, p53) at 25 developmental stages. Our findings indicate that embryos in the high-temperature (28 ℃) group had significantly higher mortality and embryonic malformation rates than those in the low-temperature (18 ℃) group. Furthermore, high temperature (28 ℃) shortened the duration of embryonic development by 7 days compared to the optimal temperature (23 ℃), while low temperature (18 ℃) caused a delay of 9 days. Therefore, embryos of S. japonica were more intolerant to high temperatures (28 ℃), emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining an appropriate incubation temperature (approximately 23 ℃). Additionally, our study observed, for the first time, that the Early blastula, Blastopore closure, and Optic vesicle to Caudal end stages were the most sensitive stages. During these periods, abnormalities in the expression of autophagy-related and apoptosis-related genes were associated with higher rates of mortality and malformations, highlighting the strong correlation and potential interaction between autophagy and apoptosis in embryonic development under varying temperature conditions.
Neo-Language Acquisition and Learning Theory: A New Perspective on Language Teaching
Authors: Eslit Edgar R.
Published: September 2023

In an era marked by rapid technological progress and global dynamics, the Neo-Language Acquisition and Learning Theory challenges conventional language acquisition paradigms through its conceptualization of 'Grit: The Unyielding Will to Connect,' emphasizing determination, motivation, and adaptability as the primary drivers of language learning, transcending age-related constraints and critical periods. This theory also underscores 'Self-Preservation: Language as the Canvas of Reality,' as language plays a pivotal role in preserving and conveying our individual and collective experiences. Recent global events have underscored the theory's relevance, prompting a reevaluation of language education in response to changing circumstances. Moreover, 'Techno-Training: Language Acquisition and Learning in the Digital Age' is integral to the theory, as it recognizes the influence of technology on modern language education. Beyond traditional methods, these three reshape our fundamental understanding of said theory. Drawing from historical evidence, psychological principles, and contemporary applications, they supported the conceptualization of the theory itself. Overall, the Neo-Language Acquisition and Learning Theory revolutionizes language education, spotlighting the power of motivation, determination, and adaptability to navigate the evolving landscape of language learning and acquisition.
A Scalable Data Structure for Efficient Graph Analytics and In-Place Mutations
Authors: Firmli Soukaina , Chiadmi Dalila
Published: September 2023

The graph model enables a broad range of analysis, thus graph processing is an invaluable tool in data analytics. At the heart of every graph processing system lies a concurrent graph data structure that stores the graph. Such a data structure needs to be highly efficient for both graph algorithms and queries. Due to the continuous evolution, the sparsity, and the scale-free nature of real-world graphs, graph processing systems face the challenge of providing an appropriate graph data structure that enables both fast analytical workloads and low-memory fast graph mutations. Existing graph structures offer a hard tradeoff between read-only performance, update friendliness, and memory consumption upon updates. In this paper, we introduce CSR++, a new graph data structure that removes these tradeoffs and enables both fast read-only analytics and quick and memory-friendly mutations. CSR++ combines ideas from CSR, the fastest read-only data structure, and adjacency lists to achieve the best of both worlds. We compare CSR++ to CSR, adjacency lists from the Boost Graph Library, as well as state-of-the-art update-friendly graph structures: LLAMA, STINGER, GraphOne, and Teseo. In our evaluation, which is based on popular graph processing algorithms executed over real-world graphs, we show that CSR++ remains close to CSR in read-only concurrent performance (within 10% on average), while significantly outperforming CSR (by an order of magnitude) and LLAMA (by almost 2×) with frequent updates. We also show that both CSR++’s update throughput and analytics performance exceed that of several state-of-the-art graph structures, while maintaining low memory consumption when the workload includes updates.
Isoniazid-Resistant Tuberculosis—A Series of Clinical Cases
Authors: Butnaru Teodora , Mihaltan Florin Dumitru , Constantin Ancuta Alina
Published: September 2023

The emergence of M. tuberculosis strains resistant to Isoniazid (INH) and Rifampicin (RIF), the two most potent drugs of first-line anti-TB therapy is termed multidrug drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis has been a serious medical and epidemic problem all over the world. We present here a series of clinical cases consist of two patients diagnosed with isoniazid resistant tuberculosis. Histopathological examination supports the diagnosis of tuberculous granulomas. And the pathology molecular examination revealed the presence of Isoniazid-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis1,2 via the following mutation c.947G>A; p.Gly316Asp. Isoniazid-resistance is associated with mutations in the furA-katG and fabG1-inhA operons, as well as mutations in the ahpC gene. 64% of the isoniazid-resistance phenotypes were associated with the katG315 mutation worldwide. The second most common mutation is inhA-15, and it has been reported in 19% of the Isoniazid-resistant isolates. The significant association between the two mutations, inhA c-15 and katG 315 respectively, and the high-level resistance is of interest in the interpretation of current and future molecular diagnostic testing, as an early prediction of the level of Isoniazid-resistance is essential to decide the benefit of high-dose Isoniazid use.
Balanced Definition of Thresholds for Mode-Tracking in a Long-Term Seismic Monitoring System
Authors: Coccimiglio Stefania , Miraglia Gaetano , Coletta Giorgia , Epicoco Rodolfo , Ceravolo Rosario
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the use of long-term seismic monitoring systems for the protection of structures is becoming increasingly widespread. This is because more and more awareness is gradually developing regarding the importance of keeping structures under observation so as to prevent any damage scenarios. Within the field of Structural Health Monitoring, data driven techniques allow to process and analyze data collected on site. This paper presents a Mode Tracking procedure to obtain the time-histories of the natural frequencies of a monumental structure. The procedure is applied on the Sanctuary of Vicoforte, an important monumental structure site in Piedmont known for its imposing oval dome and characterized by a permanent structural monitoring system. Through the procedure presented in the paper it has been possible to obtain and observe the time series of the first natural frequencies of the structure considering various aspects, including the temperature variation.
SALIQ in Rhabdomyosarcoma: A Repurposed Multidrug Regimen to Augment Standard Treatments by Adding Simvastatin, All Trans Retinoic Acid, Lithium, Itraconazole, and Quercetin
Authors: Kast Richard E. , Zaghloul Mohamed S. , Sardi Iacopo , Halatsch Marc-Eric
Published: September 2023

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a cancer arising from arrested myogenic differentiation, seen mainly in children or adolescents. Metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma is often fatal even with aggressive cytotoxic chemotherapies, surgery, and irradiation. SALIQ is an acronym for a multidrug augmentation regimen designed as an adjunct to current rhabdomyosarcoma chemotherapies. SALIQ uses five common non-oncology drugs, repurposed from general medicine use, to promote malignant clone maturation and inhibit rhabdomyosarcoma growth. The five drugs are: the cholesterol lowering drug simvastatin, the acne medicine tretinoin (ATRA), the psychiatric drug lithium carbonate, the antifungal drug itraconazole, and the food supplement quercetin. All five drugs are in common use for non-cancer conditions, are cheap, have an eminently safe side effect profile, and all five have preclinical evidence and good rationale for inhibiting rhabdomyosarcoma growth.
Pengembangan Media Pembelajaran Matematika Berbasis Sosial Media Instagram dan software Geogebra pada Pokok Bahasan Dimensi Tiga
Authors: Leny Dhianti  , Flavia Aurelia Hidajat  , Tri Murdiyanto
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian pengembangan atau Research and Development (RnD). Berdasarkan analisis kebutuhan, produk yang dikembangkan dalam penelitian ini adalah media pembelajaran matematika berbasis software GeoGebra dan Instagram pada materi dimensi tiga di kelas XII SMA. Model pengembangan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah model pengembangan ADDIE yang terdiri dari lima tahapan yaitu Analyse (analsiis), Design (desain), Development (pengembangan) dan Implemetation (implementasi). Produk akhir pada penelitian pengembangan ini adalah konten pembelajaran tentang dimensi tiga yang dibuat menggunakan software geogebra. Hasil uji coba kepada siswa kelompok besar mendapatkan persentase sebesar 82,54 % yang mana dapat diinterpretasikan sebagai sangat layak Setelah produk selesai dikembangkan, produk akhir diupload di social media Instagram, dimana siswa dapat mengakses dimanapun dan kapanpun.
Russia's Nuclear Strategy: Changes or Continuities
Authors: Singh Arushi
Published: September 2023

Contemporaneous events such as the invasion of Ukraine in 24 February 2022 by Russia has brought to the front debates and discussions concerning nuclear weapons and their potential uses in warfare that encompass nuclear strategy, tactics, and doctrines. The current nuclear strategy of Russia has been informed by the nuclear strategies under different leaders of its predecessor state, the Soviet Union. This article attempts to understand the evolution of the USSR’s nuclear strategy and its continuation toward Russia’s strategy; to assesses the reasons behind the changes in Russia’s nuclear strategy in the twenty-first century; to study the major factors that influence the nuclear strategy of Russia under Vladimir Putin; and to evaluate the possible geopolitical implications of the current Russian nuclear strategy.
Enemy at the Gates: A Strategic Cultural Analysis of Russian Approaches to Conflict in the Information Domain
Authors: Vidal Nicholas H.
Published: September 2023

When studying the strategic behavior of a foreign adversary, the act of mirror imaging one’s own conceptual frames often risks producing inaccurate assessments. To avoid such outcomes, some scholars promote the study of strategic culture as a framework for generating more empathetic analyses of foreign state decision-making. This article maintains that strategic cultural approaches are particularly useful for conceptualizing contemporary Russian understandings of confrontation in the information domain. To this end, it is argued that while contemporary Russian thinkers view information as a crucial asset in their country’s ongoing “struggle” with the West, Moscow’s use of informational nonmilitary means remains ultimately a critical, albeit subordinate element of a broader multidomain coercive strategy.
Patrones de hipercementosis y su relación con posibles factores etiológicos locales en radiografías de individuos de una población mexicana
Authors: Bernal Ruiz María Alejandra , Fiori Chíncaro Gustavo Adolfo
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: La hipercementosis (HPC) es una patología asintomática que, según la literatura existente, presenta una prevalencia baja, por lo que poco se ha investigado sobre ella; entre estos estudios, son pocos los elaborados para grupos étnicos. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar la prevalencia y los patrones radiográficos de dicha condición, así como el análisis de la relación de la patología con algunos de los que son considerados posibles factores locales desencadenantes (FDL) en individuos mexicanos. Metodología: Se analizaron 1193 ortopantomografías (OPG), seleccionadas de manera aleatoria de pacientes de ambos sexos, con un rango edad cronológica entre los 18 y 90 años, identificando la prevalencia de HPC, así como su relación entre grupos etarios, sus patrones morfológicos (focal, difuso y en forma de manga), su distribución por región anatómica y órgano dental (ODs), y la asociación de su presencia con posibles factores desencadenantes locales. Resultados: Se encontraron 348 OD con HPC en un total de 194 pacientes (16,30%), sin diferencias relevantes entre género (p > 0,05). Se registró un aumento significativo respecto de la presencia de HPC en relación con el incremento de la edad de los pacientes (p = 0,001), encontrándola presente en el 10% del grupo etario < 40 años, en un 20;30 % en el grupo de 40 a 60 años y en un 30.20% en > 60. Se encontró con mayor frecuencia de forma difusa (75,28 %), seguida por el patrón focal (19,54%) y fue menos común la morfología en forma de manga (5,17 %). La mandíbula presentó la mayor cantidad de OD con presencia de HPC, 136 (39,08%), y el lado izquierdo fue el más afectado, con 86 OD. El grupo dentario con mayor afectación fue el de molares y premolares. Conclusiones: La prevalencia de hipercementosis fue del 16,30% en los individuos mexicanos evaluados. Su presencia aumenta al incrementar la edad de los pacientes. Su localización principal es la región mandibular con predilección de premolares y molares. A pesar de que el origen idiopático es el más frecuente, se observó que la impactación dental es un posible factor local desencadenante.
Asphaltene Flow Assurance Risk Evaluation Case Study to Establish Guidelines for CCUS in Arabian Gulf Carbonate Oil Field
Authors: Tange Masaaki , Hiraiwa Takeshi , Khlaifi Khuloud Tareq , Sakurai Risa , Bahri Sami , Abed Abdalla Abdelfattah , Uematsu Hiroshi , Makishima Ken , Inokuma Yuto , Sawata Masaru , Alkaabi Sultan Hamdan , Yonebayashi Hideharu
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we present a case study for a comprehensive series of asphaltene flow assurance risk evaluations in the Arabian Gulf Carbonate Oil Field, where CO2 enhanced oil recovery (EOR) is recognized as one of the highest potential technologies for full-field implementation. At first, the sampling location was carefully selected considering the target reservoir’s features because the reliability of asphaltene studies highly depends on sample representativeness. After the quality assurance and quality control of collected samples, asphaltene onset pressures (AOPs) were measured at multiple temperatures under CO2 mixing conditions. The experimental design was optimized in terms of not only improving evaluation accuracy but also minimizing the experimental/sampling cost. The AOP measurements showed clear potential risks associated with CO2 injection. Subsequently, the numerical model analysis was conducted with the cubic-plus-association equation of state model to identify the risk area during CO2 injection. The analysis suggested that risk area is applicable to not only near-wellbore region at the sampling location but also tubing section/surface facility. Furthermore, risk level can be higher at the deeper location of the target reservoir. Finally, CO2-induced asphaltene formation damage risk was investigated from the viewpoints of precipitated asphaltene particle size and pore throat size in the porous media. As a result, the clogging risks from CO2-induced asphaltene were estimated to be high in the target reservoir. By virtue of the comprehensive risk evaluation, the asphaltene flow assurance risk associated with CO2 injection was identified field-wide. The findings from the evaluation encouraged us to move on to future actions, such as more detailed formation damage risk evaluation and mitigation plan development.

The extended asphaltene risk evaluation covering the precipitation to deposition phenomena and the reverse engineering for sampling operations based on the experimental design made a worthy demonstration to reduce unnecessary cost and time while obtaining the key information to drive the project. The procedure in this work can contribute to establishing a subsurface part of a guideline for carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) from the viewpoint of asphaltene flow assurance risk evaluation.
Sucuk, Turkish Style Fermented Sausage: Evaluation of the Effect of Bioprotective Starter Cultures on the Microbiological, Physicochemical and Chemical Changes
Authors: TOPCAM Mahide Muge YILMAZ , Arslan Betul , Soyer Ayla
Published: September 2023

Bioprotection, which is preferred in controlling food safety and shelf life by using natural protection methods, is one of the most popular of these natural protection methods. Lactic acid bacteria, especially Lactobacilli strains, are used in the food industry for this purpose due to probiotic properties and, accordingly, bioprotective properties. We aimed to investigate the role of bacteriocin-producing lactic acid bacteria, Lactobacillus sakei, and Pediococcus acidilactici, in microbiological, physicochemical and chemical changes of Turkish-style fermented sausage, sucuk. The effects of protective cultures were compared with commercial starter cultures consisting of Pediococcus pentosaceus + Staphylococcus carnosus and a non-cultured control group. L. sakei inoculation resulted in the rapid domination of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in the environment followed by P. acidilactici inoculation whereas commercially used starter culture and non-culture groups had lower counts of LAB. Moreover, L. sakei and P. acidilactici succeeded to inhibit significant levels of pathogens including S. aureus, E. coli, and Enterobacteriaceae. The number of enterococci decreased notably in the L. sakei inoculated sucuk samples; however, an increase was determined in samples inoculated with P. acidilactici. On the other side, the effect of commercial starter cultures was not as sufficient as protective cultures for the inhibition of food-borne pathogens in sucuk samples. Consequently, the inoculation of protective cultures, particularly L. sakei, provided a considerable contribution to improving microbial quality and food safety, retards lipid oxidation and increases proteolytic activity without important changes in sensory properties.
Lack of univariate, clinically-relevant biomarkers of autism in resting state EEG: a study of 776 participants
Authors: Dede Adam , Xiao Wenyi , Vaci Nemanja , Cohen Michael , Milne Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Neurodevelopmental disorders are difficult to diagnose, requiring expert clinicians and subjective judgements. Consequently, there has been interest in finding quantitative biomarkers for some disorders using resting state electroencephalogram (EEG) data. Here, we focus on resting state EEG biomarkers of autism. Although many previous reports have pointed to EEG-based differences between autistic and neurotypical participants, results have often failed to replicate and sample sizes have typically been small. Taking a big-data, open-science approach, we combined data from five studies to create a large sample of autistic and neurotypical individuals (n = 776) and used high-power computing to extract 942 variables from each participant’s data. Using a systematic, preregistered analysis pipeline, we failed to identify even a single EEG-based variable that could serve as a practically useful biomarker of autism clinical diagnosis. Our results highlight that a biomarker for autism drawn from resting state EEG data is an elusive construct that may not exist.
Effectiveness of cognitive rehearsal programs for the prevention of workplace bullying among hospital nurses in South Korea: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jeong Yulliana , Jung Hye Sun , Baek Eun- Mi
Published: September 2023

Background: To solve the problem of workplace bullying among nurses, it is necessary to review the effects of interventions and generalize the findings. We conducted a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of cognitive rehearsal programs on workplace bullying among hospital nurses.
Methods: Data were collected from March 30 to April 11, 2021, and 11,048 journal articles published in South Korea and internationally were examined across seven databases. Nine articles were selected for inclusion in the systematic literature review; five of the nine studies were included in the meta-analysis. For randomized controlled trials, the risk of bias was evaluated, and for non-randomized controlled trials, the study quality was evaluated using the Risk of Bias for Non-randomized Studies version 2.0. Egger’s regression test was performed to determine publication bias.
Results: Of the nine articles selected for this study, two were randomized controlled trials and seven were non-randomized controlled trials. The I2 value was 18.9%, indicating non-significant heterogeneity. The overall effect size of the cognitive rehearsal programs was -0.40 (95% confidence interval: -0.604 to -0.196; Z = -3.85; p = .0001) in a random-effects model, indicating a large effect size with statistical significance.
Conclusions: Therefore, cognitive rehearsal programs that address workplace bullying among hospital nurses are effective. Health policymakers must implement cognitive rehearsal programs in a policy manner to address the problems of bullying in the workplace.
Edge Computing Environment for Real-Time Automated Satellite Image Classification using Deep Learning Algorithms
Authors: M Praneesh
Published: September 2023

Classification of image is one of the decisive processes in image processing. When the classification is coursed up manually, may extend inaccuracy in analysis methods. Consequently, sensing the satellite images leads to more complexity; it has become an important problem unconcealed by technologists and researchers globally. Prevalently, space-to-ground observation technique confining the surface of the earth, civil security and remote sensing for ocean monitoring were included. In order to afford a clear pixel composition a classified image is required. It confers a high computational cost if a high pixel composition of data with a high sustainable feature in order to establish a highly accurate image classification with proper data representation. To ascertain the above mentioned properties we require a better architectural model for finest classification. The righteous delivery of remote sensing images is the upmost utility of satellite images which renders an outcome of less cost effectiveness by a long way. In this paper, we encompass an integrate feature for classifying remote sensing images that is Support Vector Machine with Genetic Algorithm (HGA-SVM) architecture with 3D-CNN and SE-Net. The network Model initiates advents a straightforward and uncomplicated learning model that helps to encompass our proposed architecture that help the model to achieve an even classification of landscapes, a manageable pushover of accuracy and a reasonable computational cost to classify remote sensing images. In this work, we first train the features based on proposed deep learning model in agriculture fields using visible spectrum camera. After that, we develop an AI based edge computing system to fully automate the classification process. For the classification, SVM exemplify with SE-Net based CNN ultimately offshoot an optimal solution and enhanced classification of remote sensing images.
Impact of a virtual coaching program for women physicians on burnout, fulfillment, and self-valuation
Authors: Smith Sunny , Goldhaber Nicole , Maysent Kathryn , Lang Ursula , Daniel Michelle , Longhurst Christopher
Published: September 2023

Background: Coaching has been demonstrated to be an effective physician wellness intervention. However, this evidence-based intervention has not yet been widely adopted in the community. Documentation and implementation research of interventions to address physician burnout in real world settings is much needed.
Objective: Assess the impact of a virtual physician coaching program in women physicians
Design: Pre- and post-intervention surveys administered to participants enrolled in the program (N=329). Effect size was calculated comparing pre- and post-intervention paired data (N=201).
Participants: 201 women physicians from 40 states in the United States of America and 3 international participants
Interventions: Participants were given access to an 8 week virtual coaching program including eight individual, six small group, and 24 large group sessions.
Main Measures: Stanford Professional Fulfillment Inventory (PFI) containing categories for assessing professional fulfillment, burnout, and the Clinician Self-Valuation (SV) Scale (a measure of self-compassion).
Key Results: Burnout was found in 77.1% (N=155) of participants at baseline, which reduced to 33.3% (N=67) at completion with large effect size (Cohen’s d 1.11). The percentage of participants who endorsed significant professional fulfillment started at 27.4% (N=55) and improved to 68.2% (N=137) with a large effect size (Cohen’s d 0.95). Self-valuation improved from 17.9% (N=36) of the participants endorsing a compassionate self-improvement perspective to 64% of the same participants eight weeks later. The self-valuation metric showed a very large effect size (Cohen’s d 1.28).
Conclusions: Virtual physician coaching programs led by physician coaches can decrease burnout, improve professional fulfillment, and increase self-compassion. Non-institution-based opportunities for coaching available to any physician across the United States and internationally can facilitate access to effective physician well-being interventions.
Determination of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidant and antibacterial potential of the bark extracts of Syzygium guineense (Wild.) DC
Authors: Dessalegn Engeda , Mathewos Mengisteab , Gebremeskel Hiwot , Tuasha Nigatu
Published: September 2023

Background: Syzygium guineense (Wild.) DC. is a wild indigenous tree widely used as a traditional medicine for various human ailments in Ethiopia. The purpose of this study was to quantify total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid (TFC) contents and determine antioxidant and antibacterial activities of various solvent extracts of the bark of the plant.
Methods: The TPC and TFC were determined using Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. The 2, 2-diphenyl-1–picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, ferric reducing power (FRAP) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assays were used to evaluate the antioxidant activities. Antibacterial properties were determined using the disc-diffusion assay based on minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against four bacterial strains (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium).
Results: The ethanol extract of the bark was found to have high TPC (37.80 ± 3.70 mgGAE/g) and TFC (19.22 ± 1.44mgQE/g). Similarly, the ethanol extract showed stronger DPPH scavenging activity (EC50=5.62 µg/mL). The FRAP and TAC were also strong (163.08±11.67 mgAAE/g and 143.72±2.86 mgBHTE/g of dried extract of 1 mg/mL, respectively). The lowest MIC was observed in acetone extract against S. aureus and in ethanol extract against K .pneumoniae. The chloroform extract was impotent against all microbial strains.
Conclusion: The bark of S. guineense possesses high TPC and TFC and strong FRAP and TAC asserting high antioxidant contents. The extracts have shown antibacterial activities against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial species. Thus, further in-depth investigations may warrant the isolation of powerful antioxidants and potent antimicrobial agents from the plant.
Orofacial Fascial Space Abscess Disguised as Temporomandibular Disorder: A Report of 3 Cases and Literature Review
Authors: Kim Tae-Seok , Lee Yeon-Hee
Published: September 2023

Fascial space abscess is a condition in which infections spread into fascial spaces. It is a severe and life-threatening disease unless treated at an early stage. Due to the similarity of clinical symptoms, fascial space abscesses in the orofacial area are often disguised as other diseases, such as temporomandibular disorder (TMD). In this case series, we report three cases of fascial space abscesses disguised as TMD. In all cases, patients complained of severely limited mouth opening and pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masseter muscles, which led clinicians to diagnose them with TMD. After two patients showed facial swelling and the third complained of dyspnea, clinicians realized the possibility of an orofacial fascial space abscess. On further evaluation, all patients showed increased C-reactive protein in blood tests, and the location of the fascial space abscess was confirmed by enhanced computed tomography images. Moreover, all patients had suspicious sources of odontogenic infections in panoramic images, periapical abscess on maxillary molars and periodontal disease on maxillary and mandibular molars, which were not appropriately evaluated at the first visit. This case series emphasizes the need for clinicians to realize the possibility of orofacial fascial space abscesses based on: clinical symptoms of severely limited mouth opening (< 15mm) with pain in the facial area, including TMJ or masseter muscle, and possible sources of infection such as odontogenic infection, other infectious lesions, trauma, or invasive treatments. These clinical insights will enable the early detection of fascial space abscesses.
Whole-genome resequencing provides insights into the diversity and adaptation to desert environment in Xinjiang Mongolian cattle
Authors: Xu Lei , Zhou Kaiqing , Huang Xixia , Chen Hong , Dong Hong , Chen Qiuming
Published: September 2023

Background: Xinjiang Mongolian cattle is an indigenous breed living in the Taklimakan Desert and with small body size. However, the genomic diversity, origin, and genetic basis underlying the adaptation to the desert environment have been poorly studied.
Results: We analyzed patterns of Xinjiang Mongolian cattle genetic variation by sequencing 20 genomes and comparing them to the 136 genomes of 10 representative breeds worldwide. We found the highest nucleotide diversity associated with the lower inbreeding coefficient, the lowest linkage disequilibrium, and the highest effective population size in Xinjiang Mongolian cattle. The genomic diversity pattern could be explained by the Bos taurusclade property of Xinjiang Mongolian cattle with a limited introgression of Bos indicus genes. More importantly, we identify signatures of convergent selection in desert animals (Xinjiang Mongolian cattle, camel and sheep originating from the Taklimakan Desert region) including genes, GO terms, and/or KEGG pathways controlling water reabsorption and osmoregulation, metabolic regulation and energy balance,and small body size.
Conclusions: Our results imply that Xinjiang Mongolian cattle might have acquired distinct genomic diversity by virtue of the introgression of Bos indicus, which helps understand the demographic history. The identification of selective signals can provide novel insights into the genomic basis underlying the adaptation of Xinjiang Mongolian cattle to the desert environment.
Association between Predicted Lean Mass and Abdominal Aortic Calcification in US Adults
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Wu QingChen , ye liu , Shao Yue , lai qiancheng
Published: September 2023

Background: The association between different body compositions and artery calcification has been proven in several studies. Evidence is still limited concerning abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) and predicted lean mass. This finding examined the relationship between predicted lean mass and abdominal aortic calcification in the United States (US) adults based on 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
Methods: Herein, 3077 respondents were selected from NHANES. Outcome variables were AAC score and severe AAC. We applied survey-weighted multiple regression analysis to examine the correlation between predicted lean mass and AAC. The restricted cubic spline was carried out to depict the linear correlation between predicted lean mass and AAC. Furthermore, we used stratification analysis to find if the correlation of predicted lean mass with severe AAC was sustained across various subclasses.
Results: Compared to other groups, participants in the first quintile presented higher AAC scores and a higher incidence of severe AAC. The weighted multivariable regression analysis indicated that predicted lean mass showed independent and significant inverse relationships to AAC score and severe AAC (all P<0.05). Restricted cubic splines observed that the correlation between predicted lean mass and AAC score, AAC severe were linear (P for non-linearity >0.05). Relationship between predicted lean mass and severe AAC was still significant in mostsubclasses.
Conclusions: Predicted lean mass was correlated with a decreased risk of AAC in US adults.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice toward allergic rhinitis among parents
Authors: Lu Lingya , Feng Jinyan , Zhu Lihua , Chen Aina , Chen Xuenai , Lu Yanming
Published: September 2023

Background: This study examined the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward allergic rhinitis (AR) among parents.
Methods:This cross-sectional study enrolled parents of children with AR at Ningbo Hangzhou Bay Hospital between December 2022 and March 2023. A self-administered questionnaire was developed to collect the demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice toward AR.
Results:This study included 480 questionnaires and 78.33% were mother. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 13.49±6.62 (possible range: 0-24), 33.99±3.40 (possible range: 8-40), and 21.52±3.36 (possible range: 5-26), indicating poor knowledge, positive attitudes, and proactive practice. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed living in urban areas in Ningbo outside Hangzhou Bay New Zone (OR=4.14, 95%CI: 1.43-11.97, P=0.009), living in rural areas in Ningbo (OR=2.21, 95%CI: 1.03-4.73, P=0.042), child with one biological sibling (OR=0.48, 95%CI: 0.29-0.78, P=0.003), and >6 times hospital visits for AR (OR=2.23, 95%CI: 1.34-3.72, P=0.002) were independently associated with adequate knowledge. Knowledge (OR=1.09, 95%CI: 1.05-1.13, P<0.001) and >6 times hospital visits for AR (OR=1.84, 95%CI: 1.06-3.22, P=0.032) were independently associated with positive attitude. Knowledge (OR=1.08, 95%CI: 1.04-1.13, P=0.001), attitude (OR=1.41, 95%CI: 1.28-1.55, P<0.001), monthly income per capita >20,000 CNY (OR=3.59, 95%CI: 1.49-8.65, P=0.004), and no previous hospital visit for AR (OR=0.38, 95%CI: 0.20-0.72, P=0.003) were independently associated with proactive practice.
Conclusions: The parents of children with AR had poor knowledge but positive attitudes and proactive practice toward AR. This study has identified a need for specific and reliable information initiatives to be introduced as a means of reducing parental concern and ensuring evidence-based strategies for managing child with AR.
Evaluating the Impact of an Educational Intervention on the History of Racism in America for Teaching Structural Competency to Medical Academicians
Authors: Glenn Jason E. , Bridges Kristina M. , Boye-Doe Kakra , Taylor LesLee , Peltzer Jill N. , Alexander Shawn Leigh , Binion Danielle , Schuette Matthew , Francis Carrie L. , McGee Jerrihlyn L.
Published: September 2023

Background.
A challenge facing many Academic Health Centers (AHCs) attempting to revise health professions education to include the impact of racism as a social and structural determinant of health (SSDoH) is a lack of broad faculty expertise to reinforce and avoid undermining learning modules addressing this topic. To encourage an institutional culture that is in line with new anti-racism instruction, we developed a six-part educational series on the history of racism in America and its impact on contemporary health inequities for teaching structural competency to health professions academicians.
Methods.
We developed a six-hour elective continuing education (CE) series for faculty and staff with the following objectives: 1) describe and discuss race as a social construct; 2) describe and discuss the decolonization of the health sciences and health care; 3) describe and discuss the history of systemic racism and structural violence from a socio-ecological perspective; and 4) describe and discuss reconciliation and repair in biomedicine. The series was spread over a six-month period and each monthly lecture was followed one week later by an open discussion debriefing session. Attendees were assessed on their understanding of each objective before and after each series segment.
Results.
We found significant increases in knowledge and understanding of each objective as the series progressed. Attendees reported that the series helped them grapple with their discomfort in a constructive manner. Self-selected attendees were overwhelmingly women (81.8%), indicating a greater willingness to engage with this material than men.
Conclusions.
The series provides a model for AHCs looking to promote anti-racism and structural competency among their faculty and staff.
First-principles investigation on the structural properties, mechanical, anisotropy properties, electronic structure and optical properties of AlTi3N, AlTi2N, AlTi4N3 and Al2Ti3N2 nitrides
Authors: Wang Kun , Zhang Xudong , Wang Feng
Published: September 2023

In recent years, nitrides have attracted more and more attentions. Understanding how nitrides are used in practice demands, we considered the material characteristics of the hexagonal AlTi2N, AlTi4N3 and Al2Ti3N2 and cubic AlTi3N compounds. First-principles calculations are used to examine the structural integrity, electrical characteristics, elastic anisotropy and optical characteristics of these nitrides. The findings demonstrate that the estimated parameter values and experimental data correlate rather well. The structures of these nitrides appear to be thermodynamically stable based on the calculated formation enthalpies of AlTi3N, AlTi2N, AlTi4N3 and Al2Ti3N. The electric properties of these nitrides have been analyzed. The findings indicate that the materials possess metallic properties. According to elastic constants and elastic modulus results, it is found that AlTi2N has the more robust deformation resistance. The G/B ratio and ν values both support that AlTi2N and AlTi4N3 are brittle materials. Through the drawn 3D contours and 2D projected Young's modulus graphs, the different anisotropy degrees of these nitrides are obtained. These nitrides have the potential to be used as materials for anti-ultraviolet coatings, according to their optical characteristics.
Low-latitude mesopelagic nutrient recycling controls on productivity and export
Authors: Rodgers Keith , Aumont Olivier , Toyama Katsuya , Resplandy Laure , Ishii Masao , Nakano Toshiya , Sasano Daisuke , Bianchi Daniele , Yamaguchi Ryohei
Published: September 2023

Low-latitude oceans (30°S-30°N) account for approximately half of the global net primary production and export. A long-standing paradigm holds that the Southern Ocean dominates low-latitude primary production and export, with implications for the response of global primary production and export to climate change. Here we apply observational and model analyses to argue instead that 66% of low-latitude primary production and 50% of export is controlled by local mesopelagic macronutrient recycling. An additional supply of nutrients locally upwelled from the deep ocean balances the loss of nutrients to the deep ocean via the soft tissue pump, with only a 5% supply through shallow (considered over the upper 870m) transfer from the Southern Ocean. Further analyses of a set of five CMIP6 models run to 2300 under high emissions reveal significant disparities in their projections of not only the amplitude but also the sign of low latitude primary production, with temperature-dependent remineralization promoting enhanced low-latitude mesopelagic nutrient retention and associated increases in primary production through low-latitude overturning and upwelling. This underscores the importance of mechanistic understanding of mesopelagic remineralization and its sensitivity to ocean warming for predicting future ecosystem changes.
Hydroxylamine production by Alcaligenes faecalis challenges the paradigm of heterotrophic nitrification
Authors: Lücker Sebastian , Lenferink Wouter , Bakken Lars , Jetten Mike , Kessel Maartje van
Published: September 2023

Heterotrophic nitrifiers continue to be a hiatus in our understanding of the nitrogen cycle. Despite their discovery over 50 years ago, the physiology and environmental role of this enigmatic group remains elusive. The current theory is that heterotrophic nitrifiers are capable of converting ammonia to hydroxylamine, nitrite, nitric oxide, nitrous oxide, and dinitrogen gas via the subsequent actions of nitrification and denitrification. In addition, it was recently suggested that dinitrogen gas may be formed directly from ammonium. Here, we combine complementary high resolution gas profiles,15N isotope labelling studies and transcriptomics data to show that hydroxylamine is the major product of nitrification inAlcaligenes faecalis. We demonstrated that denitrification and direct ammonium oxidation to dinitrogen gas did not occur under the conditions tested. Our results indicate thatA. faecalisis capable of hydroxylamine production from an organic intermediate. These results fundamentally change our understanding of heterotrophic nitrification and have important implications for its biotechnological application.
Germline mutations in hereditary breast-ovarian cancer spectrum in Thailand: Results from multi-gene panel testing in 4,567 Thai patients
Authors: Pithukpakorn Manop , Kansuttiviwat Chalermkiat , Lertwilaiwittaya Pongtawat , Roothumnong Ekkapong , Nakthong Panee , Dungort Peerawat , Meesamarnpong Chutima , Tansa-Nga Warisara , Pongsuktavorn Khontawan , Wiboonthanasarn Supakit , Tititumjariya Warunya , Phuphuripan Nannipa , Lertbussarakam Chittapat , Wattanarangsan Jantanee , Sri Jiraporn , Punuch Kittiporn , Kammarabutr Jirayu , Mutirangura Pornthira , Thongnoppakhun Wanna , Limwongse Chanin
Published: September 2023

Multi-gene panel testing has led to the detection of pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in many cancer susceptibility genes in patients with breast-ovarian cancer spectrum. However, the clinical and genomic data of Asian populations including Thai cancer patients was underrepresented and the clinical significance of multi-gene panel testing in Thailand remains undetermined. In this study, we collected the clinical and genetic data from 4,567 Thai patients with cancer in the hereditary breast-ovarian cancer (HBOC) spectrum who underwent multi-gene panel testing. Six hundred and ten individuals (13.4%) had germline P/LP variants. Detection rates of germline P/LP variants in breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer were 13.4%, 19.8%, 14.0%, and 7.1%, respectively. Non-BRCA gene mutations accounted for 35% of patients with germline P/LP variants. ATM was the most common non-BRCA gene mutation. Four hundred and thirty-two breast cancer patients with germline P/LP variants (80.4%) met the current NCCN genetic testing criteria. The most common indication was early-onset breast cancer. Ten patients harbored double pathogenic variants in this cohort. Our result showed that significant proportion of non-BRCA P/LP variants were identified in patients with HBOC-related cancers. These data support the benefit of multi-gene panel testing for inherited cancer susceptibility in among Thai HBOC patients. Some modifications of the testing policy may be appropriate for implementation in diverse populations. (Word count: 214 words)