bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge and attitude towards patient safety among registered nurses of a private hospital in Selangor Malaysia
Authors: Jamal Norhayati , Ahmad Aini , Kunjukunju Annamma
Published: May 2023

Background: Many patients experience losses during hospitalization due to various mistakes and unwanted events. Knowledge and attitudes of nurses toward patient safety greatly affect the provision of safe patient care. Registered nurses need good knowledge and attitudes to provide good nursing care during inpatient care.Purpose: To improve the knowledge and attitude of registered nurses toward patient safety with proper guidelines to prevent any incident or adverse event and simultaneously improve safety and quality health care in Malaysia.Method: This cross-sectional analytic study was conducted in 2021 at a private hospital in Klang Valley, Malaysia. One hundred twenty-eight (128) registered nurses (RNs) were recruited through non-probability sampling. This questionnaire was used to collect data, which was then analyzed using SPSS Version 26, descriptive analysis, Kruskal Wallis, and Mann-Whitney tests.Results: Showed that 124 respondents (96.9%) had good knowledge about patient safety, and 47.7% (61 respondents) had a good attitude. The relationship between nurses' knowledge of patient safety and age, education level, experience, and unit or department was not significant at p values 0.362, 0.902, 0.466, and 0.307, respectively.Conclusion: Determining the knowledge and attitudes of nurses toward patient safety will improve the quality of nursing care by preventing incidents that are detrimental to patients.
Determinants of cesarean delivery in Indonesia: An analysis of the 2017 Indonesia demographic and health survey
Authors: Fajarwati Dinda Dwi , Sari Nurhalina
Published: May 2023

Background: According to a statement by the World Health Organization (WHO), the optimal proportion of sectio caesarea (SC) is considered to be between 10-15%. In Indonesia, based on survey data for deliveries using the sectio caesarea (SC) method, the cases increased from 9.8% in 2013 and 17.6% in 2018.Purpose: To determinants of cesarean delivery in Indonesia:  An analysis of the 2017 Indonesia demographic and health surveyMethod: This type of research is a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design. The population and sample in this study were 14,087 women of childbearing age 15-49 years who had complete variables. Data analysis used chi-square and multiple logistic regression.Results: Found that there was a significant relationship between sectio caesarea with maternal age, mother's occupation, wealth index, place of residence, spouse's occupation, partner's education, type of birth, history of ANC visits, baby size, health facilities, history of pregnancy complications and delivery, history of miscarriage with p-value < 0,001. And there is no relationship between sectio caesarea and maternal education with a p-value of 0.862. The dominant factor that affects mothers giving birth by cesarean section is the type of birth with an OR of 2.854 times (CI 95% 1,932 – 4,206).Suggestion: It is expected that people who have undergone IVF or pregnancy insemination will carry out the fertilization alone in order to reduce the risk of giving birth by cesarean section and women who are already pregnant with multiple pregnancies are expected to be more diligent in conducting ante-natal care visits so that they can better detect the progress of their pregnancy and prevent complications. which will allow delivery by cesarean section.
Geschäfte mit Moskau. Die Handelsbeziehungen zwischen der Schweiz und der Sowjetunion 1964–1982 aus Schweizer Perspektive
Authors: Lohm Christina
Published: May 2023

1948, zwei Jahre nach der Wiederaufnahme der diplomatischen Beziehungen, schloss die Schweiz einen Handelsvertrag mit der Sowjetunion, auf dessen Basis sich die Handelsbeziehungen erfolgreich entwickelten. In der Breschnew-Zeit, dem Hauptzeitraum der Untersuchung, standen Handels- und Wirtschaftsfragen im Zentrum des schweizerisch-sowjetischen Verhältnisses. Sie bildeten ungeachtet des geringen Volumens die stabilisierende Grundlage für die Beziehungen der beiden Länder im Ganzen und liessen nach dem Zerfall der Sowjetunion schweizerische Unternehmen zu den ersten Investoren in Russland werden. Die vorliegende Studie basiert auf umfangreichem schweizerischem Archivmaterial, im Fokus steht die Bedeutung der wirtschaftlichen Beziehungen für die Schweiz. Die Entwicklung der Handelsbeziehungen wird chronologisch aufgezeigt und auf der wirtschaftspolitischen, der unternehmerischen und der personellen Ebene untersucht. Ein Schwerpunkt liegt auf den Besonderheiten und Herausforderungen der Kooperation zweier komplett unterschiedlicher Systeme, der zentral verwalteten sowjetischen Staatswirtschaft und der liberal organisierten schweizerischen Privatwirtschaft.
Paradise Tree Extract (Simarouba glauca) Selectively Induces Cell Death, Enhances Efficacy of Common Chemotherapeutics and Reduces Their Toxicity in In-Vitro and In-Vivo Models of Breast Cancer
Authors: Pupulin Alaina , Raad Chris , Wear Darcy , Raad Abby , Pupulin Lauren , Vegh Caleb , Pandey Siyaram
Published: May 2023

Background: Although chemotherapeutics have proven to be effective in treating metastatic breast cancer, their limited target selectivity has resulted in adverse side effects, rendering them unsuitable for long-term usage. Alternatively, certain natural extracts provide a promising strategy to selectively target cancer while being safe to consume. Specifically, paradise tree (Simarouba glauca) has shown potential anti-tumour activity; however, its efficacy against cancer, mechanism of action, and interaction with standard chemotherapies have not been investigated. Method: We have demonstrated the anti-tumour activity of ethanolic paradise tree extract (PTE) in triple-negative and ER-positive breast cancer cell lines and its interaction with chemotherapeutics when used in combination. The anti-tumour efficacy of PTE was evaluated through the expression of apoptotic biochemical markers as well as changes in cell morphology. For mechanistic studies, fluorogenic dyes were used to quantify reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial membrane potential destabilization. Results: Our results have shown that PTE selectively triggers apoptosis in breast cancer cells while having limited effects on noncancerous cells. Importantly, we have found that PTE enhances the anti-tumour efficacy of chemotherapeutics, cisplatin and Taxol, when given in combination, while reducing their toxicity in noncancerous cells. Furthermore, PTE inhibits growth of human tumour xenografts in immunocompromised mice. Importantly, PTE in combination with Taxol and cisplatin had the best anti-tumour effect. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that PTE could be a safe and effective treatment for breast cancer. Most importantly, as a supplement to chemotherapeutic regimens, it could enhance anti-tumour effects and reduce chemo-related toxicity.
Use of Ketorolac As An Adjuvant in Bier’s Block
Authors: Masud Habibul Hai , Khatun UH Shahera , Hossain Md Mozaffer , Shoman Mohiuddin , Alam Md Tanveer , Mondal Subrata Kumar
Published: May 2023

Background: Bier’s block has been most commonly used for hand and wrist surgery of short duration. Though it reduces the potential complication of general anaesthesia, significant post-operative pain is very common just after tourniquet release. Many adjuvants eg. fentanyl, pethidine, morphine, sodi-bicarb, pancuronium, ketorolac etc. have been used so far with local anaesthetic to produce a dense block and to provide adequate post-operative analgesia. Of them Ketorolac was used very successfully as it has got less potential side-effects. This study was done to see the effect of ketorolac in Bier’s block whether and how much it provides post-operative analgesia after tourniquet release.
Method: The effectiveness of combination of Lignocaine and Ketorolac as an anaesthetic solution in Bier’s block was assessed in terms of reduction of tourniquet pain, quality of anaesthesia, the time of first analgesic demanmd and the amount of total analgesic needed in post-operative 24-hours period. A total of sixty patients of ASA grade-1 and ASA grade-2 undergoing hand and wrist surgery of less than 40 minute duration were enrolled for the study. Patients in control group (Gr-L) were received forty ml of 0.5%Lignocaine and patients in trial group (Gr-LK) were received 39-ml of 0.5% Lignocaine with 1 ml (30 mg) of Ketorolac as an anaesthetic solution. Patient was observed postoperatively for 24 hours.
Result: Pain was assessed in terms of VAS , and by measuring Heart rate and Blood pressure to assess sympathetic stimulation due to pain. Tourniquet pain was significantly less in Gr- LK (p<0.000). Postoperative analgesia was also significantly prolonged in Gr- LK (76.40 ± 11.78 min) than in Gr- L (27.30 ± 8.18 min). The number of total analgesic demand in postoperative 24 hours period was also significantly reduced in Gr-LK (p<0.000)
Conclusion: The Lignocaine and Ketorolac mixture in Bier’s block produces significant anaesthesia and also provides adequate postoperative analgesia and causes less analgesic demand in postoperative period. These advantages ensure cost-effectiveness, shorter hospital stay and ultimately satisfactory patient outcome.
JBSA 2016; 29(2): 54-61
Anaesthesia for a Patient with Gorham’s Disease A Very Rare Disease to Report
Authors: Nimmi Nahida Parveen , Alam Golam Ferdous , Mitra SP , Aziz Lutful
Published: May 2023

Gorham disease, which is also known as massive osteolysis, vanishing bone disease or lymphangiomatosis, is an extremely rare condition, characterized by proliferation of vascular channels resulting in destruction and resorption of osseous matrix leading to bone loss, which in turn leads to joint instability and problems during airway management and positioning for surgery. Respiratory involvement may further complicate anaesthesia management. We are reporting the anaesthesia care of a 11-year-old boy of known GS with left sided chylothorax who came for amputation of left arm due to closed injury arm resulting from RTA.He was on cyclical Pamidronate therapy and had completed radiotherapy.
JBSA 2016; 29(2): 75-77
Investigating Asymmetry in Tourism and Growth Relationship in the Pacific Island Countries: Any Lessons for Policy Makers?
Authors: Makun1 Keshmeer
Published: May 2023

The global economy has been devastated by the Covid-19 pandemic, which began in
the first quarter of 2020. The unprecedented damages in terms of loss of lives,
livelihoods, and interruptions in international travel have caused deep contractions
in small islands and developing countries, which are known for their dependency on
tourism. This paper empirically examines the relationship between tourism and
economic growth in the selected Pacific Island Countries (PICs). Adopting a panel
nonlinear autoregression distributed lagged (NARDL) approach, we account for
potential nonlinearities in the relationship and empirically determine the asymmetric
response of per capita GDP to positive and negative tourism shocks. Our analysis
depicts that tourism and per capita GDP have a significant asymmetric relationship.
The estimates show that a decrease in tourism earnings has a larger negative impact
on economic growth when compared to the positive outcome of the same size rise in
tourism earnings. The negative impact of tourism is also found to be more
pronounced in the long run. The results are robust to different tourism indicators and
sub-sample periods. ICT and the financial market as control variables have a
significant positive effect on economic growth. The study findings have some policy
implications for PICs.
Pengaruh Komposisi Media Tanam dan Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria Terhadap Pertumbuhan Bibit Kakao
Authors: Hastuti Pauliz Budi , Titiaryanti Ni Made , Mardhatilah Dina
Published: May 2023

To obtain quality cocoa seedlings, maintenance efforts are required during the nursery stage, including meeting the nutritional needs of the planting medium which can be in the form of organic fertilizer from goat manure and husk charcoal. In addition, efforts to improve growing media in nurseries can be used with biological fertilizers, including plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Goat manure for plant nutrients, as well as a source of nutrients for PGPR. The research objective was to determine the effect of media composition and PGPR on the growth of cocoa seedlings. Research with the experimental method of factorial design consisting of two factors was arranged using a completely randomized design. The first factor was soil planting medium: goat manure: husk charcoal (v/v) consisting of 3 levels: M0 = 1:0:0 (control), M1 = 1:1:0 and M2 = 1:1:1. Factor II, namely the dose of PGPR consists of 3 levels: K1 = 10 ml/seedling, K2 = 20 ml/seedling, and K3 = 30 ml/seedling. With three repetitions. Observational data were analyzed with variance at the 5% level. To find out the differences between treatments, the Duncan's Multiple Range Test was continued at 5% level. The results showed that there was no significant interaction between media composition and PGPR dosage on the growth of cocoa seedlings. The composition of the soil medium : goat manure : husk charcoal 1:0:0 and 1:1:0 gave good growth of cocoa seedlings. PGPR doses provide the same growth of cocoa seedlings.
Spesies Serangga Hama Padi dan Jagung serta Intensitas Serangannya di Kabupaten Lahat
Authors: Novian Novian Dwisatria , Ramadhani Fitri
Published: May 2023

Insect pest attack on rice (Oryza sativa L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) could be potential in decrease production. This study aims to determine the insect pest species of rice and maize and attack intensity in Lahat District. This study was conducted using survey methods. The systematic random sampling methodology was adopted for sample population identification. Surveys were conducted in 3 subdistricts (Jarai, Pajar Bulan and Sukamerindu). Found three rice insect pests species. The third species was rice stem borer (Scirpophaga incertulas), leaf folder (Cnaphalocrosis medinalis) and rice bug (Leptocorisa sp). Found one maize insect pest species was fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). S. incertulas has attacked in 7 locations with low-intensity, Leptocorisa sp has attacked in 2 locations with low-intensity, C. medinalis has attacked in 1 location with low-intensity and S. frugiperda has attacked in 4 locations with low-intensity. Rice stem borer and fall armyworm can attack crop from the vegetative to generative phase.
Analisis pemahaman konsep matematis berdasarkan minat belajar siswa
Authors: Kuba Ristami Fatima Caprinata , Husna Asmaul , Amelia Fitrah
Published: May 2023

Penelitian dilatar belakangi oleh kurangnya pemahaman konsep siswa terhadap pelajaran matematika dan minat belajar matematika siswa masih terbilang rendah. Minat belajar berpengaruh untuk meningkatkan kemampuan pemahaman konsep siswa. Tujuan  Penelitian ini untuk mendeskripsikan kemampuan pemahaman konsep berdasarkan minat belajar matematika siswa kelas XI SMK Management Training Systems, dengan pendekatan penelitian deskriptif kualitatif. Data yang terkumpul dianalisis menggunakan prosedur menurut Miles dan Huberman yang meliputi reduksi data, penyajian data dan menarik kesimpulan. Adapun indikator pemahaman konsep yang diukur meliputi menyatakan ulang sebuah konsep ( 14I1" ), mengembangkan syarat perlu atau syarat cukup suatu konsep 14I2" , menggunakan prosedur atau operasi tertentu 14I3" , dan mengaplikasikan konsep untuk pemecahan masalah 14I4" . Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan test sebanyak 2 soal yang telah valid dan reliabel ( 14rii"  = 0,52), dan menggunakan instrumen angket dengan 27 butir pernyataan yang telah valid dan reliabel ( 14rii"  = 0,42). Serta diperkuat dengan hasil wawancara. Berdasarkan hasil analisis, siswa dengan minat belajar tinggi memenuhi indikator ( 14I1" ), 14 (I2" ), 14(I4" ) tetapi masih kurang dalam indikator 14(I3" ). Siswa dengan minat belajar sedang dapat memenuhi indikator 14(I1" ) dan 14(I2" ), masih terdapat kesalahan pada indikator 14(I3" ) dan 14(I4" ). Siswa dengan minat belajar rendah hanya memenuhi indikator 14(I1" ), tetapi masih kurang dalam indikator 14(I2" ), 14(I3" ), 14(I4" ).
Analisis pengendalian persediaan kelapa sawit sebagai bahan baku minyak dengan metode continous review system
Authors: Sari Nila , Cipta Hendra , Lubis Riri S
Published: May 2023

PT. Multiagro Sumatrajaya adalah perusahaan yang bergerak di bidang pengolahan minyak kelapa sawit. Menurut sumber dari perusahaan, permasalahan yang sering terjadi adalah bahan baku  yang cukup intens  mengalami perubahan ketika musim panen. Perubahan ini menyebabkan penumpukkan kelapa sawit yang mengakibatkan naiknya harga simpan perawatan kelapa sawit di gudang. Hal ini menyebabkan kekurangan dan kelebihan minyak kelapa sawit. Akibat dari pemesanan atau pembelian yang kurang efesien dan efektif  yang  dapat mempengaruhi proses produksi crude palm oil (CPO). Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk meminimalkan total biaya persediaan minyak kelapa sawit sebagai bahan baku minyak. Metode yang digunakan adalah  continuous review system (CRS), yaitu metode persediaan yang memantau apakah pesanan R sudah benar dan ukuran pemesanan atau jumlah pesan Q untuk setiap pemesanan selalu benar. Maka,  berdasarkan  hasil analisis metode CRS diperoleh bahwa total biaya penyimpanan minimal  sebesar Rp 362.029.346.319. Sedangkan menurut perhitungan perusahaan sebesar Rp 362.295.973.755, sehingga menghasilkan penghematan biaya sebesar Rp. 266.627.439 dengan persentase penghematan biaya sebesar 0,07% dari total biaya metode persediaan perusahaan atau keadaan sebenarnya dari perusahaan. Metode pengendalian persediaan terbaik dalam pengambilan keputusan untuk pengendalian persediaan adalah metode CRS dikarenakan total biaya persediaan yang dihasilkan oleh metode CRS lebih kecil dibandingkan metode yang digunakan oleh perusahaan.
Infecções oportunistas decorrentes de diagnóstico tardio de HIV: Relato de caso
Authors: Alexandre José de Almeida , Lopes Thalisson Max de Oliveira , Santos Junior José Ledesvan Pereira dos , Alves Eloisa Simões , Brito Letícia Maria Cavalcanti , Silva Júlia Carla Oliveira , Oliveira Fernanda Lopes de , Alves Isabela Simões , Silva Jéssica Laís da , Ceryno Bernadete Barros
Published: May 2023

As infecções oportunistas representam um grave problema de saúde pública, especialmente em pacientes com imunodeficiência causada pelo HIV. Se não forem tratadas adequadamente, essas infecções podem ser graves e até mesmo fatais. O objetivo deste estudo é relatar o caso de um paciente com diagnóstico tardio de HIV, que apresentou infecções oportunistas. Trata-se de um relato clínico de um homem bissexual de 36 anos, que foi admitido no hospital com sintomas de anorexia, dor retal, dor abdominal e anemia severa. Durante sua admissão, foi descoberto que ele estava infectado pelo HIV e também apresentava infecções oportunistas, incluindo candidíase esofágica, HPV e CMV. Após receber uma série de terapias, o paciente apresentou melhora significativa, com resolução dos sintomas iniciais e controle das infecções oportunistas, sendo assim, foi encaminhado para acompanhamento em regime ambulatorial. Embora o paciente tenha apresentado melhoras em sua condição, é crucial ressaltar que sua participação no estudo revelou danos irreversíveis em termos de prevenção. Durante anos, ele inadvertidamente transmitiu o vírus HIV, expondo a risco um número significativo de pessoas. Isso destaca o desafio crítico que o atraso no diagnóstico do HIV representa para o controle da epidemia.
O uso do eucaliptol na Odontologia
Authors: Andrade Luiz Carlos Prince Junqueira de , Marçal Ricardo Lellis
Published: May 2023

O Eucaliptol é obtido da essência de eucalipto ou de outras fontes produtoras. É um líquido límpido, incolor, de odor aromático, canforáceo, característico, de sabor picante, seguida da sensação de frescor. O eucaliptol, largamente utilizado pela classe odontológica, é um óleo essencial considerado de baixa toxidade e possui uma boa capacidade de dissolução sobre os cones de guta-percha. Diante disso, o presente estudo teve o objetivo de realizar um estudo sobre o uso do eucaliptol na Odontologia, apresentando os seus aspectos gerais e indicações e contra-indicações. Para isso, esta pesquisa teve como base uma revisão bibliográfica descritiva, ao qual foi fundamentada em trabalhos científicos já publicados entre os anos de 2018 a 2022 em língua portuguesa e que tratavam especificamente sobre a temática proposta. A coleta de dados se deu em base de banco de dados, tais como Google Acadêmico, Scielo, PubMed e Lilacs, do qual resultaram 18 trabalhos científicos analisados e divulgados no decorrer desse estudo. Nos resultados encontrados, ficou claro observar que dada a importância que possui para a solvência de guta-percha, o eucaliptol na Odontologia, é bastante utilizado. Por essa razão, estudos clínicos têm concluído que o eucaliptol é considerado uma alternativa viável para substituir outros solventes, pois é menos irritante, tem atividade antibacteriana, melhor odor, e ao contrário de outros, é biocompatível e seguro.
Conservation and monitoring of wildlife in logged tropical forests
Authors:   , Zwerts Joeri Alexander
Published: May 2023

Tropical forests harbor the largest share of all terrestrial biodiversity, including 62% of all terrestrial vertebrate species. Of the remaining tropical forests, more than one-quarter are designated as logging concessions, potentially putting wildlife at risk. Forest certification systems like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) claim that they address threats to biodiversity, but studies have to date not resulted in robust verification of impacts of certified logging on wildlife communities due to limitations in research design and scale. Measuring impact is important for informed decision-making and data-driven policies. For this, reliable population monitoring is a prerequisite. In this thesis the general aims are to assess whether wildlife is more effectively conserved in FSC-certified logging concessions than in non-FSC concessions, and to explore how wildlife populations can best be monitored in tropical forests. I start this thesis by reviewing the applications of the three main monitoring methods to provide guidance on wildlife monitoring in tropical forests. Then, I examine the knowledge gap concerning the impacts of FSC-certified forestry, by assessing whether wildlife is more effectively conserved in FSC-certified logging concessions than in non-FSC concessions. The data were gathered by using camera traps in fourteen forestry concessions in Western Equatorial Africa. I found that FSC-certified forestry benefits mammals when compared to non-FSC forestry, with the most pronounced positive impacts for mammals weighing 10 kg and more. Next, I develop and test two wildlife monitoring methods: the use of sound for primate monitoring, and the use of soundscapes as a proxy for the overall biodiversity in a forest. Species-specific monitoring using sound covers a different species range than camera traps. However, sound monitoring requires automated classification for it to be useful. For soundscapes, interpretation of changes in the soundscape and quantification of individual species’ contributions are the main challenges, as well as interpreting the relationship between the structure of the soundscape and local landscape heterogeneity. Further development and enhancement of wildlife monitoring methods is essential for impact verification and improvement of forest certification. Improved wildlife monitoring methods may also aid the development of biodiversity credit systems, potentially yielding new revenue streams for conservation.
Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and Crohn’s Disease Association: Case Report
Authors: AlShahrabally Aamir , Coghlan D , Quinn S
Published: May 2023

We described a 15-year-old- a boy who presented with neurofibromatosis type 1 and Crohn’s disease. Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is the most common form of NF, affecting 1 in 3000 individuals. Crohn’s disease is one of the inflammatory bowel diseases. Its incidence is significantly rising in Ireland. Concomitant association of NF1 and Crohn’s disease is a rare finding. This is the first case reported in the paediatric population.
A práxis da performance violonística: três gravações de “Omaggio a Boccherini”, de Tedesco
Authors: Victor de Oliveira Lemos Caio , Lindenberg Lemos Carolina
Published: May 2023

Neste trabalho propomos traçar vetores para as movimentações que determinados usos performáticos perfazem através dos tempos em performances de violão solo. Para isso, fazemos a análise comparativa de três gravações distanciadas temporalmente – Segovia (1936), John Wiliams (1965) e Meng Su (2016) – do quarto movimento da sonata “Omaggio a Boccherini” op. 77, de Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. Utilizamos alguns conceitos basilares da proposta tensiva de Claude Zilberberg (2011) a fim de operacionalizar os desdobramentos analíticos de nossas análises. Por fim, discutimos as aproximações e distanciamentos que os elementos performáticos adquirem no decorrer histórico, bem como os efeitos de sentido que tais usos assumem tanto nas estratégias discursivas utilizadas, bem como nos diálogos estabelecidos com a tradição performática de seus contemporâneos, com a práxis em que se inserem.
The crust-mantle transition beneath Northeast China from P–wave receiver functions
Authors: Sebastian Nita , Tkalčić Hrvoje , Sippl Christian , Kim Seongryong , Reading Anya M. , Chen Youlin , Fontaine Fabrice R.
Published: May 2023

Introduction: The continental lithosphere of the Northeast China Plain (NECP) is probed using P–wave receiver function analysis of passive seismic data. The NECP is much–discussed as it includes different geological provinces of varying tecto–magmatic origin and dates back from Archean to Holocene. Quantifying the tectonic and magmatic influences on the structure and composition of the lithosphere puts important constraints on evolution of NECP. For this, we explore 75 sites across NECP using receiver function analysis.

Methods: A recently developed technique of inverting for 1–D S–wave velocity profiles beneath seismic stations that is based on the principles of Bayesian statistics (hierarchical transdimensional Bayesian Inversion; HTBI) is applied to receiver functions from the NECP. In addition, an improved crustal thickness–compressional to shear wave velocity ratio (H–κ) analysis was conducted to retrieve the crustal thickness and Vp/Vs ratio of the region. These estimated point measurements are integrated and systematically studied for a regional view of the current crustal architecture.

Results and Discussion: We observe a laterally varying and highly complex lithosphere beneath the NECP. A shallower crust–mantle transition (≤32 km) characterises the Precambrian North China craton and Late Mesozoic–Cenozoic Songliao Basin from the adjacent Central Asian Orogenic Belt and the Changbaishan Volcanic field (35–40 km). Beneath the latter, low Vp/Vs ratios (~1.65) are obtained, whereas all other regions feature ratios in excess of 1.75. Multiple velocity gradients are observed at crustal depths within the craton, in contrast to the adjacent orogen, which indicates a higher degree of crustal complexity of the former. The width of the crust–mantle transition across the NECP is found to be mainly intermediate (2–7 km) and occasionally sharp (≤2 km). From our observations, we infer that there is a substantial difference between the eastern North China Craton’s lithospheric architecture and the rest of the NECP, with most of the NECP exhibiting more complexity than previously reported.
The efficacy of alendronate for the treatment of thalassemia-associated osteoporosis: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Piriyakhuntorn Pokpong , Tantiworawit Adisak , Phimphilai Mattabhorn , Srichairatanakool Somdet , Teeyasoontranon Waralee , Rattanathammethee Thanawat , Hantrakool Sasinee , Chai-Adisaksopha Chatree , Rattarittamrong Ekarat , Norasetthada Lalita , Fanhchaksai Kanda , Charoenkwan Pimlak
Published: May 2023

Background

With adequate blood transfusion and iron chelation, thalassemia patients have a longer life expectancy and experience long-term metabolic complications, including osteoporosis, fractures, and bone pain. Alendronate, an oral bisphosphonate, is currently used to treat various types of osteoporosis. However, the efficacy for the treatment of thalassemia-associated osteoporosis remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of alendronate for the treatment of osteoporosis in thalassemia patients. Patients were included if they were males (18–50 years) or premenopausal females with low bone mineral density (BMD) (Z-score < -2.0 SD) or positive vertebral deformities from vertebral fracture analysis (VFA). Stratified randomization was performed according to sex and transfusion status. Patients were 1:1 allocated to receive once weekly alendronate 70 mg orally or placebo for a total duration of 12 months. BMD and VFA were re-evaluated at 12 months. Markers of bone resorption (C-terminal crosslinking telopeptide of type I collagen; CTX) and bone formation (Procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide; P1NP), and pain scores were measured at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. The primary outcome was the change of BMD. The secondary endpoints were changes in bone turnover markers (BTM) and pain scores.

Results

A total of 51 patients received the study drug, 28 patients were assigned to receive alendronate and 23 patients to receive placebo. At 12 months, patients in the alendronate group had significant improvement of BMD at L1-L4 compared to their baseline (0.72 ± 0.11 vs 0.69 ± 0.11 g/cm2, p = 0.004), while there was no change in the placebo group (0.69 ± 0.09 vs 0.70 ± 0.06 g/cm2, p = 0.814). There was no significant change of BMD at femoral neck in both groups. Serum BTMs were significantly decreased among patients receiving alendronate at 6 and 12 months. The mean back pain score was significantly reduced compared to the baseline in both groups (p = 0.003). Side effects were rarely found and led to a discontinuation of the study drug in 1 patient (grade 3 fatigue).

Conclusion

Alendronate 70 mg orally once weekly for 12 months effectively improves BMD at L-spine, reduces serum BTMs, and alleviates back pain in thalassemia patients with osteoporosis. The treatment was well tolerated and had a good safety profile.
Financial sustainability of oil and gas companies—basis for building resilience strategies
Authors: Grosu Veronica , Tiron-Tudor Adriana , Socoliuc Marian , Ciubotariu Marius-Sorin , Hlaciuc Elena , Macovei Anamaria-Geanina , Tulvinschi Mihaela , Mihalciuc Camelia-Cătălina , Melega Anatol
Published: May 2023

The crisis situations that have affected the oil and gas market have had a significant impact on the companies’ performance from this sector and especially on their customers. In these circumstances, many companies faced increasing difficulties and in some cases, in order to survive, they had to restructure their business or even leave the market. Considering this context, this kind of situations are also manifesting in Romania where we can identify companies facing the erosion of their competitive position, with economic, financial and capital consequences, while other companies still managed to react positively to the crisis generated by the energy sector through innovation and internationalization. This article analyses the sustainability of the operational activity of oil and gas extraction companies from Romania, based on financial and economic data and information, having the aim of investigating the way in which the performance of different markets has influenced the economic and financial results and consequently, the implications of this influence for the structure of the activity and on the financial-economic sustainability. The research methodology is specific to a quantitative research, based on a sample of financial and economic data reported by all 29 oil and gas extraction companies from Romania over the period of 2008–2022. The data collected from the financial reports formed the basis for the calculation of the financial indicators and ratios considered relevant in forecasting the economic and financial sustainability of these companies. The results obtained are materialised in the development of a model whose aim is to assess the financial and economic sustainability, its independent variables being grouped into performance, activity and risk indicators. The usefulness of the results obtained is relevant both for the companies concerned and for their customers and suppliers who will show a visible dependence on energy costs, but also for investors and financiers directly interested in performance and sustainability information, on the basis of which they will determine the value of their own economic benefits.
Single-nucleus transcriptome analysis reveals transcriptional profiles of circadian clock and pain related genes in human and mouse trigeminal ganglion
Authors: Chu Yanhao , Wu Yaqi , Jia Shilin , Xu Ke , Liu Jinyue , Mai Lijia , Fan Wenguo , Huang Fang
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Clinical studies have revealed the existence of circadian rhythms in pain intensity and treatment response for chronic pain, including orofacial pain. The circadian clock genes in the peripheral ganglia are involved in pain information transmission by modulating the synthesis of pain mediators. However, the expression and distribution of clock genes and pain-related genes in different cell types within the trigeminal ganglion, the primary station of orofacial sensory transmission, are not yet fully understood.

Methods

In this study, data from the normal trigeminal ganglion in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were used to identify cell types and neuron subtypes within the human and mouse trigeminal ganglion by single nucleus RNA sequencing analysis. In the subsequent analyses, the distribution of the core clock genes, pain-related genes, and melatonin and opioid-related genes was assessed in various cell clusters and neuron subtypes within the human and mouse trigeminal ganglion. Furthermore, the statistical analysis was used to compare the differences in the expression of pain-related genes in the neuron subtypes of trigeminal ganglion.

Results

The present study provides comprehensive transcriptional profiles of core clock genes, pain-related genes, melatonin-related genes, and opioid-related genes in different cell types and neuron subtypes within the mouse and human trigeminal ganglion. A comparative analysis of the distribution and expression of the aforementioned genes was conducted between human and mouse trigeminal ganglion to investigate species differences.

Discussion

Overall, the results of this study serve as a primary and valuable resource for exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying oral facial pain and pain rhythms.
Antioxidant and antibacterial activity of Apis laboriosa honey against Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Tan Weihua , Tian Yuanyuan , Zhang Qingya , Miao Siwei , Wu Wenrong , Miao Xiaoqing , Kuang Haiou , Yang Wenchao
Published: May 2023

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is a common food-borne pathogen that commonly causes gastroenteritis in humans and animals. Apis laboriosa honey (ALH) harvested in China has significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis. We hypothesize that ALH has antibacterial activity against S. Typhimurium. The physicochemical parameters, minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC) and the possible mechanism were determined. The results showed that there were significantly different physicochemical parameters, including 73 phenolic compounds, among ALH samples harvested at different times and from different regions. Their antioxidant activity was affected by their components, especially total phenol and flavonoid contents (TPC, TFC), which had a high correlation with antioxidant activities except for the O2- assay. The MIC and MBC of ALH against S. Typhimurium were 20–30% and 25–40%, respectively, which were close to those of UMF5+ manuka honey. The proteomic experiment revealed the possible antibacterial mechanism of ALH1 at IC50 (2.97%, w/v), whose antioxidant activity reduced the bacterial reduction reaction and energy supply, mainly by inhibiting the citrate cycle (TCA cycle), amino acid metabolism pathways and enhancing the glycolysis pathway. The results provide a theoretical basis for the development of bacteriostatic agents and application of ALH.
How Large is the Potential of Brain Dead Donors and what Prevents Utilization? A Multicenter Retrospective Analysis at Seven University Hospitals in North Rhine-Westphalia
Authors: Englbrecht Jan Sönke , Schrader Daniel , Kraus Holger , Schäfer Melanie , Schedler Dirk , Bach Friedhelm , Soehle Martin
Published: May 2023

Organ donation after brain death is constantly lower in Germany compared to other countries. Instead, representative surveys show a positive attitude towards donation. Why this does not translate into more donations remains questionable. We retrospectively analyzed all potential brain dead donors treated in the university hospitals of Aachen, Bielefeld, Bonn, Essen, Düsseldorf, Cologne and Münster between June 2020 and July 2021. 300 potential brain dead donors were identified. Donation was utilized in 69 cases (23%). Refused consent (n = 190), and failed utilization despite consent (n = 41) were reasons for a donation not realized. Consent was significantly higher in potential donors with a known attitude towards donation (n = 94) compared to a decision by family members (n = 195) (49% vs. 33%, p = 0.012). The potential donor´s age, status of interviewer, and the timing of the interview with decision-makers had no influence on consent rates, and it was comparable between hospitals. Refused consent was the predominant reason for a donation not utilized. Consent rate was lower than in surveys, only a known attitude towards donation had a significant positive influence. This indicates that survey results do not translate well into everyday clinical practice and promoting a previously documented decision on organ donation is important.
Performance Evaluation of Vertical Discs and Disc Coulters for Conservation Tillage in an Intensive Rice–Wheat Rotation System
Authors: Xu Gaoming , Xie Yixuan , Peng Shenjie , Liang Lei , Ding Qishuo
Published: May 2023

As an advanced agricultural production technology, conservation tillage has been developed rapidly and adopted widely for many crops all over the world, but challenges remain with regard to dealing with excessive residues, especially for intensive rice–wheat rotation systems. Most studies to date have been based on a single type of tool and the indoor bin test to explore its performance. Accurate field test data on the tillage performance of different types of tools for conservation tillage are lacking in this area. In this study, five tillage tools were tested in a paddy field with plenty of crop residues to compare their performance. They were three vertical discs with plain disc (PD), notched disc (ND), and rippled disc (RD) and two disc coulters with plain disc coulter (PDC) and notched disc coulter (NDC). All five tools were tested using a specific field test rig at two different working depths of 70 and 100 mm. Tillage forces, straw cutting efficiency, soil disturbance width, and soil cutting depth were measured. The results showed that tool geometry and working depth had a significant impact on tillage performance. The vertical disc performed a higher average straw cutting efficiency, as well as lower tillage forces and lower soil disturbance width than the disc coulter. For straw handling and furrowing operations, RD had the highest straw cutting efficiency, moderate tillage force, and appropriate soil disturbance width among the five tools. For all five tools, the 100 mm working depth results in 40% higher draught force, 39% greater vertical force, and 18% higher straw cutting efficiency on average. For no-tillage seeding in the intensive rice–wheat rotation system, the RD would be a more suitable rotary tool for conservation tillage practice.
Optimizing Rice Sowing Dates for High Yield and Climate Adaptation in Central China
Authors: Liu Kaiwen , Song Chunyan , Ye Pei , Liu Huan , Xia Zhihong , Waseem Hassan , Deng Yanjun , Liu Zhixiong , Wang Lu , Wang Bin , Yang Xinhao , Zhu Jianqiang
Published: May 2023

Optimizing the sowing date of rice can change the seasonal patterns and distributions of climate factors during the crop growing season, making it one of the most effective ways to adapt to climate change and achieve high yield. A four–year field experiment (2018–2021) was conducted at Jingzhou Agricultural Meteorological Experiment Station, central China, with four different sowing dates (SD) each year, late April (SD1), early May (SD2), mid–May (SD3) and late May (SD4). Dry matter accumulation, grain yield and climate conditions were observed across sowing dates. Our findings revealed that delaying the sowing date from early May to mid or late May could increase grain yield by 5.6% to 8.6%. However, sowing too early could increase heat stress, decrease the net effective accumulated temperature, inhibit rice growth, and reduce grain yield. On the other hand, sowing too late could increase the risk of low temperatures after flowering. From the perspective of increasing net effective accumulated temperature, reducing heat stress and low temperature after flowering, mid to late May was the most favorable sowing date to ensure high yield. It is suggested that optimizing rice sowing dates can effectively avoid the threat of heat stress and better match thermal resources, thereby increasing rice productivity.
Effect of Nitrogen Fertilization and Inoculation with Bradyrhizobium japonicum on Nodulation and Yielding of Soybean
Authors: Szpunar-Krok Ewa , Bobrecka-Jamro Dorota , Pikuła Wojciech , Jańczak-Pieniążek Marta
Published: May 2023

Legumes’ nutrition relies on two sources of nitrogen (N): mineral N from soil, and biological N fixation (BNF). The aim of this study was to verify the effect of bacterial inoculation, as well as to compare it with the effect of different mineral N fertilization on the main nodulation characteristics, yield components and seed yield of two soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) cultivars in the conditions of south-eastern Poland. A randomized block design was used with four replications and combining the application rates of mineral N (0, 30 and 60 kg·ha−1), and seed inoculation with Bradyrhizobium japonicum (HiStick® Soy and Nitragina) were applied for two soybean cultivars (Aldana, Annushka). It has been shown that inoculation of B. japonicum increases the nodulation on plant roots, yield components and seed yield, but no significant effect of the bacterial preparation used on the seed yield was observed. The application of 30 kg N·ha−1 did not result in a significant reduction in the number and weight of nodules, including on the main root and lateral roots, compared to seeds inoculated and not fertilized with N, as observed under a dose of 60 kg N·ha−1, but resulted in an increase in the number of pods and the number and weight of seeds per plant. For both soybean cultivars, the best combination was nitrogen fertilization at 30 kg N·ha−1 and seed inoculation with B. japonicum, regardless of the bacterial preparation used.
Maize/Peanut Intercropping Reduces Carbon Footprint Size and Improves Net Ecosystem Economic Benefits in the Huang-Huai-Hai Region: A Four-Year Study
Authors: Yan Zhenhui , Wang Jianguo , Liu Ying , You Zhaoyang , Zhang Jialei , Guo Feng , Gao Huaxin , Li Lin , Wan Shubo
Published: May 2023

The dual challenges of global climate change and reductions in the amount of arable land represent growing threats to the stability of global human populations. Efforts to further optimize cropping systems to maximize yields while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions in limited land areas have thus emerged as a focus in modern agriculture. Cereal-intercropping management strategies may represent a promising approach to simultaneously addressing both of these challenges in China. We aimed at comprehensively assessing changes in yield, carbon footprint, and net ecosystem economic benefit when transitioning from maize/peanut monoculture to intercropping in a field-scale study in an effort to aid in the development of low-carbon intercropping systems that do not have an adverse impact on Chinese grain yields. Beginning in June of 2018, a randomized complete block design with three treatments was used to initiate this study: (1) peanut monoculture (P), (2) maize monoculture (M), and (3) maize/peanut intercropping (MP). We compared yield, greenhouse gas emissions, carbon footprint and net ecosystem economic benefit. Results over four years showed that the land equivalent ratio associated with MP was greater than 1. All three of these cropping systems were net CO2 and N2O sources as well as net CH4 sinks, with MP generating significantly (p < 0.05) lower N2O and CO2 flux as well as smaller seasonal N2O and CO2 emissions relative to M. MP additionally reduced the carbon footprint associated with this cropping system by 11.11–31.65% and 30.37–43.62% relative to M and P, respectively. Consistently, MP treatment resulted in respective 70.69% and 26.25% net ecosystem economic benefit (NEEB) increases relative to the M and P conditions while simultaneously enhancing energy use efficiency. In summary, MP systems have potential economic benefit with lower environmental risk alternative to traditional peanut or maize monocropping systems. Converting from peanut or maize monocropping systems to MP systems practices contributed to improved farmland use efficiency, clean production and increased farmers’ income in an agricultural system.
The Influence of Photoperiod, Intake of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, and Food Availability on Seasonal Acclimatization in Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
Authors: Gasch Kristina , Habe Manuela , Krauss Julie Sophie , Painer-Gigler Johanna , Stalder Gabrielle , Arnold Walter
Published: May 2023

Hypometabolism and hypothermia are common reactions of birds and mammals to cope with harsh winter conditions. In small mammals, the occurrence of hibernation and daily torpor is entrained by photoperiod, and the magnitude of hypometabolism and decrease of body temperature (Tb) is influenced by the dietary supply of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids. We investigated whether similar effects exist in a non-hibernating large mammal, the red deer (Cervus elaphus). We fed adult females with pellets enriched with either linoleic acid (LA) or α-linolenic acid (ALA) during alternating periods of ad libitum and restricted feeding in a cross-over experimental design. Further, we scrutinized the role of photoperiod for physiological and behavioral seasonal changes by manipulating the amount of circulating melatonin. The deer were equipped with data loggers recording heart rate, core and peripheral Tb, and locomotor activity. Further, we regularly weighed the animals and measured their daily intake of food pellets. All physiological and behavioral parameters measured varied seasonally, with amplitudes exacerbated by restricted feeding, but with only few and inconsistent effects of supplementation with LA or ALA. Administering melatonin around the summer solstice caused a change into the winter phenotype weeks ahead of time in all traits measured. We conclude that red deer reduce energy expenditure for thermoregulation upon short daylength, a reaction amplified by food restriction.