bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Moringa Leaves (Moringa oleifera) in Liquid Organic Fertilizer for Red Spinach (Amaranthus tricolor L) Plant Growth
Authors: Fiddaroini Saidun , Yulianti Eny
Published: January 2024

Industrial and social activities have a significant impact on environmental degradation, with soil pollution being one of the consequences. Consequently, plants are unable to achieve proper growth. One viable solution lies in the application of liquid organic fertilizer. Liquid organic fertilizer derived from naturally fermented Moringa leaves presents a potential remedy to this issue. Moringa leaf liquid organic fertilizer contains essential macronutrients (N: 4.02%; Ca: 12.3%; P: 1.17%; Mg: 0.10%; K: 1.8%; and Na: 1.16%), micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Cu), and growth hormones (zeatin and cytokinin), making it highly suitable for use as a liquid organic fertilizer. The study encompassed two variables, namely the impact of soil pH and the effect of liquid organic fertilizer derived from Moringa leaves over a span of 30 days. The findings revealed that red spinach plants failed to thrive in soil with a pH ranging from 3.5 to 4. However, when cultivated in soil with a pH of 4.5, they exhibited a lifespan of 7 days, while in soil with a pH of 5, growth could be sustained for 9 days. Red spinach demonstrated favorable growth rates at pH levels of 5.5, 6, 6.5, and 7, albeit at different rates. Notably, the height growth of red spinach plants, when watered with the addition of liquid organic fertilizer derived from Moringa leaves, proved to be 1.4 times faster compared to those without organic fertilizer. Furthermore, the length growth ratio of red spinach leaves, when treated with the aforementioned liquid organic fertilizer, exceeded that of plants without organic fertilizer by 1.375 times, highlighting the accelerated growth of Moringa leaves.
Burden of Mental Depression in Patients with Chronic Heath Failure: A Cross-Sectional Study in Cameroon’s Reference Hospitals
Authors: Boombhi Jérôme
Published: January 2024

Background: Chronic Heath Failure (CHF) is a global public health problem. It is associated with psychological problem that have a great impact in Quality of life. Amongst the psychological disorders associated with CHF, mental depression is a major one. There are few studies done in Sub-Sahara Africa in general and specifically in Cameroon. The knowledge of the epidemiology of depression in Cameroon will help policymakers to reduce burden of CHF in this part of the world. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the prevalence of mental depression in patients with Chronic Heath Failure followed in three reference hospitals of Cameroon. Methodology: We carried out a cross-sectional study over a period of 04 months, from January to May 2017. The patients were recruited from the cardiology departments of three references Hospitals of Cameroon: Yaoundé Central Hospital (YCH), General Hospital of Yaoundé (GHY) and Yaoundé University Teaching Hospital (YUTH). We included all patients aged 18 years and above followed for CHF and consenting to participate in the study. Patients with other chronic conditions (chronic kidney disease, cancer, schizophrenia) were excluded. Evaluation and detection of mental depression was done by the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9). Results: A total of 119 patients were recruited. The mean age was 66 ± 13 years. More than 2/3 (70.6%) of the patients were unemployed. The majority of patients (83.2%) had low monthly income (<100 000 FCFA). Stage II of heart failure according to New York Heart Association (NYHA) was the most represented (50%). The prevalence of depression was 35.3% (n=42) with the respective frequency of 26.1%, 8.4%, 0.8% for mild, moderate, moderately severe. Conclusion: The prevalence of mental depression is high in patients with Chronic Heart Failure in Cameroon. The clinician should be aware of that in order to improve quality of life of these patients.
The MicroRNA-210/Casp8ap2 Pathway Alleviates Hypoxia-Induced Injury in Myocardial Cells by Regulating Apoptosis and Autophagy
Authors: Wang Dongjin
Published: January 2024

Aim: This study was conducted to investigate the role of the miR-210/Caspase8ap2 pathway in apoptosis and autophagy in hypoxic myocardial cells. Methods: The miR-control, miR-210 mimic and miR-210 inhibitor were transfected into rat myocardial H9C2 cells. The transfection efficiency of exogenous miR-210 was determined by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). H9C2 cells were then treated with CoCl2 for 24, 48 and 72 h to generate a myocardial injury model. The apoptosis of H9C2 cells was assessed by flow cytometry. Additionally, a western blot assay was used to determine the expression of the autophagy-associated proteins light chain 3 (LC3), p62 and Beclin-1, and apoptosis-associated proteins Caspase8ap2, cleaved caspase 8 and cleaved caspase 3. Results: We determined that a 48 h hypoxia treatment duration in H9C2 cardiomyocytes induced myocardial injury. Additionally, the overexpression of miR-210 significantly inhibited cell apoptosis. MiR-210 suppressed autophagy by upregulating p62 and downregulating LC3II/I in hypoxic H9C2 cells. Since Caspase8ap2 was a putative target of miR-210, miR-210 mediated apoptosis and autophagy of H9C2 cells via suppressing Caspase8ap2. Furthermore, the expression of caspase 8, caspase 3 and Beclin-1 were decreased in response to miR-210. Conclusions:miR-210 exhibits anti-apoptosis and anti-autophagy effects, which alleviate myocardial injury in response to hypoxia.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome Post Covid-19 Vaccination: An Overview
Authors: Nieto Salazar Maria Alejandra
Published: January 2024

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a disease of autoimmune origin that causes demyelination of the nerves. It has been reported as a complication following the administration of some vaccines, such as the vaccine against Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Infection by this virus may also be responsible for this complication. In the United States, it has been observed as a side effect in vaccines manufactured by Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen). After the administration of the first dose of Pfizer’s vaccine, some cases of GBS have been reported, with most of the cases being female. Johnson & Johnson, on its part, reported some cases that required hospitalization and one that resulted in a fatality. Concerning Moderna vaccination and the development of GBS, no studies have demonstrated a clear link between the development of this condition. However, an apparent connection exists between the components of each vaccine, their mechanism of action, and each individual’s immunological response. Despite this, there is clear evidence that vaccination against COVID-19 has a low risk of causing GBS.
Varicella Zoster Virus Aseptic Meningitis: A Misleading Clinical and Laboratory Presentation: Three Cases Reports
Authors: Khedr Diana
Published: January 2024

Background: A septic meningitis caused by varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation was less described in the literature, Varicella-zoster virus is a neurotropic virus that remain dormant in dorsal root ganglion after primary infection, usually manifested as chickenpox which gets reactivated in immunocompromized state presented usually with vesicular rash complicated with multi-organ affection such as central nervous system. Rarely this characteristic skin rash can be absent initially requiring high clinical suspicion for diagnosis. When no skin lesions are present, a high clinical suspicion is required to reach the diagnosis. In this report we described three clinical of varicella- zoster virus reactivation presented in atypical way in terms of clinical presentation and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Case presentation: Three patients otherwise healthy were admitted to the hospital with a chief complaint of headache, nausea, vomiting and symptoms suggestive of increased intracranial pressure (IIH). Resembling IIH but due to acute presentation and positive meningeal signs this was unlikely. The clinical examination did not show any neurological deficits or rash except lately in the first case. Lumbar puncture unexpectedly showed high opening pressure with markedly elevated CSF total and high total cell count with lymphocytic predominance which was misleading raising suspicion of tuberculous meningitis. Further CSF analysis, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and detection of intrathecal synthesis of antibodies, showed a VZV infection. Clinical follow-up examinations later on proved successful antiviral treatment.
Transcranial Doppler: A Beginning of a New Era for Stroke Diagnosis
Authors: A Bafna
Published: January 2024

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) is an intracranial neurovascular exam that provides a real-time, rapid, non-invasive ultrasound technique to analyze cerebrovascular function. It uses high-frequency sound waves to assess the blood flow velocity, detect the deficit that causes focal vascular stenosis, and diagnose the embolic signals inside these arteries. Moreover, it can be used to analyze particular vascular territory of physiologic health by measuring cerebral vasoreactivity, cerebral autoregulation, and functional hyperemia. The information obtained from these examinations is increasingly becoming pertinent for therapeutic decision-making. In this study, we are going to focus on a comparative analysis of TCD findings using clinical and other modalities and assess the specificity, sensitivity, and positive and negative predictive value of TCD findings in Asymptomatic and Symptomatic high-risk elderly patients. Furthermore, we will study the clinical usefulness of TCD in evaluating patients with cerebrovascular accidents (CVA).
Gambaran Sel Darah Merah Kerbau Lumpur (Bubalus bubalis) pada Lingkungan Kering di Letekonda Selatan, Loura, Sumba Barat Daya, Nusa Tenggara Timur
Authors: Natara Berliani Susi Ester , Batan I Wayan , Nindhia Tjokorda Sari
Published: January 2024

Kerbau (Bubalus bubalis)merupakan salah satu ternak ruminansia yang dipelihara oleh para peternakyang berfungsi sebagai penghasil daging, ternak kerja, serta sarana upacara adat dan keagamaan.Pemeriksaan kondisi kesehatan kerbau sangat penting dilakukan untuk mempertahankan populasi.Pemeriksaan darah salah satu indikator yang digunakan dalam menunjang diagnosis terhadap suatu penyakit.Penelitian tentang gambaran darah pada kerbau betina dewasadi Indonesia belum banyak dilaporkan,khususnya pada kerbau yang dipelihara di lingkungan kering.Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui gambaran sel darah merahkerbau lumpur betina dewasayang dipelihara pada lingkungan kering. Sampel yang digunakan adalah sampel darah dari 20 ekor kerbau dewasa dengan jenis kelamin betina yang berasal dari Desa Letekonda Selatan, Kecamatan Loura,Kabupaten Sumba Barat Daya, Nusa Tenggara Timur. Pengambilan darah dilakukan pada vena jugularis dan darahyang telah diambil kemudiandimasukkan ke dalam tabung berisi antikoagulan Ethylene Diamine Tetraacetic Acid(EDTA). Pemeriksaan sel darah merahdilakukan menggunakan Hematology Analyzer di Balai Besar Veteriner Denpasar.Hasil penelitian yang telah dilakukan menunjukkan bahwa gambaran sel darah merahkerbau betina dewasadiperoleh hasil total eritrosit (6,29 ± 0,98 x 106/μL), hemoglobin (12,96 ± 1,12 g/dL), hematokrit (34,35 ± 3,33%), MCV (50,72 ± 4,50 fL), MCH (20,87 ± 2,26 pg),danMCHC (41,11 ± 1,32%). Nilai parameter yang telah diperoleh dapat dijadikan acuan profil sel darah merahpada kerbau yang dipelihara di Indonesia khususnya di daerah kering.
Paracetamol Induced Acute Interstitial Nephritis: A Pediatric Case Report
Authors: Miguel Pedro J. , Moiteiro da Cruz Rafael , Costa-Reis Patrícia , Sandes Ana Rita , Esteves da Silva José
Published: January 2024

N/a.
A autoformação como "cultivo de si"
Authors: Danelon Márcio , Lima Sílvia Cristina Fernandes
Published: January 2024

Este artigo busca refletir sobre o conceito de autoformação como um processo de “cultivo de si”, analisado com base na terceira extemporânea intitulada Schopenhauer como Educador. Investiga-se a autoformação como um processo que se efetiva na medida em que ocorre a afirmação da existência. Tomando como exemplo as figuras do artista, do filósofo e do santo como tipos pedagógicos na medida em que exemplificam a superação do modelo padronizado e massificado da educação e da vida presente na modernidade.
Fontes para a investigação científica sobre o cinema educativo no Brasil (1910-1939)
Authors: Faheina Evelyn Fernandes , Silva William Ferreira da
Published: January 2024

Este artigo comunica os resultados de uma pesquisa que investigou quais fontes, disponibilizadas no acervo Digital da Biblioteca Nacional, apresentaram notícias relacionadas à temática do cinema educativo no Brasil, de 1910 a 1939. Ao fixar esse período, fez-se o mapeamento das fontes, cujo processo de busca ocorreu a partir das seguintes palavras-chave: cinema educativo, cinema instructivo, cinema escolar, cinema recreativo, censura cinematographica, cinema e censura, film immoral, fiscalização do cinema, cinema immoral, fitas immoraes, maus films, cinema e educação religiosa, cinema e propaganda catolica. Com isso, foram identificadas 123 fontes, dentre as quais jornais e revistas que indicaram o cinema como estratégia para educar os brasileiros nas três primeiras décadas do século XX. Dos documentos analisados, verificou-se que essa ação foi reforçada, em todo o território nacional, pela igreja, pela polícia, pela imprensa e pela escola como colaboradoras da prática do cinema educativo no país. A análise das notícias, presentes nas fontes investigadas, possibilitou a compreensão sobre o cinema, a partir das seguintes perspectivas: I) como recurso facilitador do ensino; II) como estratégia disseminadora de valores cívicos e religiosos; III) como material indispensável à disseminação de conteúdos morais; IV) como recurso vantajoso a ser utilizado em práticas religiosas e educativas; V) como produção fiscalizada por entidades vinculadas a interesses governamentais.
Aprendizagem baseada em projetos aplicada ao ensino de programação
Authors: Andrade Juliana Cristina dos Santos de , Oliveira Carlos Henrique Rodrigues de , Oliveira Fabricia Benda de , Angelos Jacyelli Sgranci , Schimidt Marcelo Queiroz
Published: January 2024

Introdução. A Aprendizagem Baseada em Projetos (ABP) é um método de ensino centrado no aluno, que organiza o aprendizado e o estudo em torno de projetos, desafiando-os a trabalhar em grupos, na busca de soluções para problemas reais. Objetivo. Este estudo propõe uma revisão de literatura sistemática com metadados, sobre a aprendizagem Baseada em Projetos aplicada ao ensino da programação, que se aplica a qualquer área do conhecimento, entre elas as Ciências da Terra. Metodologia. O método de pesquisa baseou-se na seleção de trabalhos relacionados à área, por meio de Bibliometria. Resultados. A literatura mostrou que ambientes que usaram a prática ABP obtiveram evolução significativa dos alunos na capacidade de resolução de problemas, pensamento crítico e reflexivo e facilidade de trabalho em grupo. Conclusão. A revisão de literatura evidenciou que a Aprendizagem Baseada em Projetos é uma prática pedagógica cada vez mais utilizada para conectar o conhecimento abstrato com a prática autêntica no ambiente educacional.
Bumetanide to treat autism spectrum disorders: are complex administrative regulations fit to treat heterogeneous disorders?
Authors: Ben-Ari Yehezkel
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Extensive experimental observations suggest that the regulation of ion fluxes and, notably, chloride are impacted in autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders. The specific NKCC1 cotransporter inhibitor Bumetanide has been shown to attenuate electrophysiological and behavioral features of ASD in experimental models. Both pilot and phase 2 double-blind randomized independent trials have validated these effects with thousands of children treated successfully. Both brain imaging and eye tracking observations also validate these observations. However, final large phase 3 trials failed, with no significant differences between placebo and treated children.

Methods: Here, I discuss the possible reasons for these failures and discuss the exclusive reliance on complex patent cooperation Treaty (PCT) regulations. Indeed, available data suggest that bumetanide responders could be identified by relying notably on EEG measures, suggesting that biological sub-populations of patients might benefit from the treatment.

Results: These observations raise important debates on whether treating only a % of children with ASD is acceptable.

Discussion: It is likely that in many disorders, the heterogeneity of the pathological event precludes a single general treatment for all, suggesting that trials centered on selective populations of responders might be essential for large clinical trials to succeed.
Emerging mechanisms and implications of cGAS-STING signaling in cancer immunotherapy strategies
Authors: Zhang Jiawen , Yu Sihui , Peng Qiao , Wang Ping , Fang Lan
Published: January 2024

The intricate interplay between the human immune system and cancer development underscores the central role of immunotherapy in cancer treatment. Within this landscape, the innate immune system, a critical sentinel protecting against tumor incursion, is a key player. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway has been found to be a linchpin of innate immunity: activation of this signaling pathway orchestrates the production of type I interferon (IFN-α/β), thus fostering the maturation, differentiation, and mobilization of immune effectors in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, STING activation facilitates the release and presentation of tumor antigens, and therefore is an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy. Current strategies to activate the STING pathway, including use of pharmacological agonists, have made substantial advancements, particularly when combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors. These approaches have shown promise in preclinical and clinical settings, by enhancing patient survival rates. This review describes the evolving understanding of the cGAS-STING pathway’s involvement in tumor biology and therapy. Moreover, this review explores classical and non-classical STING agonists, providing insights into their mechanisms of action and potential for optimizing immunotherapy strategies. Despite challenges and complexities, the cGAS-STING pathway, a promising avenue for enhancing cancer treatment efficacy, has the potential to revolutionize patient outcomes.
Petrographic and Mechanical Study of Aggregates from Central Chad: a case for Natural Selection of hard rocks
Authors: Al-hadj Hamid Zagalo , Rochette Pierre , Allafouza Annour Birké
Published: January 2024

This study focusses on the geological formations of the Alfallé massif located approximately 75km east of the town of N'Goura, in the Hadjer-Lamis Province of Chad (13°N, 17°E), and their ability to provide good quality aggregates in an area with poor hard rock ressources. We investigated the petrographic and mechanical characteristics of these formations in a resource perspective. The massif is made up of three lithologies: alkali feldspar megacrystalline granite, biotite-rich fine grained quartz monzonite and biotite-rich fine grained gneiss. Alkali feldspar megacrystalline granite is composed of quartz (30%), orthoclase (30%), plagioclase (20%), biotite (15%) and opaque minerals (≈5%). Micro-monzonite is composed of quartz (15-20%), orthoclase (20-25%), plagioclase (18-25%), biotite (20-25%) and opaque minerals (≈4%). The biotite gneiss is composed of quartz (25-30%), alkali feldspars (25-27%), plagioclase (17%), biotite (25-27%) and opaque minerals (≈5%). The mechanical characteristics of the aggregates show that the aggregates studied have specific density values of between 2.58 and 2.75g/cm3 with an average value of 2.66g/cm3, a Los-Angeles coefficient of 11.2% to 28.9% with an average value of 20.1% and a wet Micro-Deval coefficient of 5.2% to 10.8% with an average value of 7.6%. The values obtained indicate that the materials studied have excellent to satisfactory properties, and that Alfallé massif provide the best characteristics among six different quarrying area in Central Chad. We propose that such rare residual reliefs within the mega-Chad paleolake area reach optimal mechanical properties through a natural selection process, specific of the paleolake erosional conditions.
Optimising Hip and Knee Joint Mobility in College Women Students: Assessing the Influence of Hydraulic Resistance Training with Self-Myofascial Release
Authors: K Manosakthi , K Dr Divya
Published: January 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to examine the impact of a modern lifestyle on college female students' health, specifically focusing on their hip and knee joint mobility. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of hydraulic resistance training with the self-myofascial release technique on improving joint mobility in female college students. The training also aimed to compare the effectiveness of hydraulic resistance exercise with and without the self-myofascial release technique on hip and knee joint mobility.Methods The study used a randomized controlled trial design to recruit 30 female college students aged 18-25 through campus advertisements and announcements. Medical conditions or injuries that might have affected participation was screened. Participants were indiscriminately allocated to Group A (Hydraulic Resistance Training with Self-Myofascial Technique) or Group B (Hydraulic Resistance Training without Self-Myofascial Technique). The baseline assessments included joint range of motion (ROM) measurements using a goniometer. Certified trainers supervised the training sessions, and the data were analyzed using SD and mean using SPSS. ResultsThis study aimed to evaluate the impact of hydraulic resistance training with self-myofascial release on hip and knee joint mobility in female college students. The results showed that both groups showed improved hip and knee flexion with and without the self-myofascial release technique. However, the Group A using the self-myofascial release technique (Group A) showed a more significant enhancement, as indicated by the smaller p value compared to Group B. It has been suggested that the self-myofascial release technique may improve hip and knee joint mobility. ConclusionThis study concluded that Hydraulic Resistance Training with Self-Myofascial Release (HSMR) could improve hip and knee joint mobility among female college students. These findings suggest that integrating the self-myofascial release technique into training regimens can improve joint mobility. However, further research with larger sample sizes and extended intervention periods was needed to understand the long-term effects and sustainability of these improvements.
The Future of AI in IoT: Emerging Trends in Intelligent Data Analysis and Privacy Protection
Authors: Marengo Agostino
Published: January 2024

This paper explores the dynamic intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), focusing on emerging trends in intelligent data analysis and privacy protection. Employing a systematic literature review, we analyze recent advancements and challenges in AI-IoT integration. The paper highlights key developments in sensor data anomaly detection, AI-driven big-data analytics, and IoT-based communication techniques. It delves into the complexities of privacy protection in IoT, examining innovative solutions like federated learning and blockchain technologies. The study also addresses the challenges in AI for IoT, prioritizing the most pressing issues such as data security, ethical implementation, and compliance with regulations like GDPR. The research underscores the need for adaptable solutions that balance technological advancements with privacy and security considerations, setting a path for future exploration in AI-empowered IoT applications.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Risk Factors Among the Households of Migrant Construction Workers at Bhopal
Authors: Reddy Akhila , Sagar Khadanga , Gupta Pradeep Kumar , Karuna Tadepalli
Published: January 2024

Intestinal Parasitic infections are one of the most common infections in tropics. There is paucity of data on prevalence of intestinal parasite infections among migrant construction workers and their house holds so this study was taken up. A cross sectional study was conducted for eight months with an aim to determine the prevalence and assess the associated risk factors among the households of migrant construction workers at AIIMS Bhopal. A semi-structured interview questionnaire survey was conducted prior to collection of stool samples. Each stool sample was examined macroscopically followed by occult blood testing. Wet mount observation was followed by modified acid fast staining and formal ether sedimentation. Recruits with pathogenic parasites in any of the three samples were considered positive and treated as per the national guidelines for age, drug and dose by clinical consultation. 361 participants were recruited. 122/361 (33.8%) were between 21 to 30 years. 55.2% females, 47.4% had occupation of digging soil, 93.1% practiced open field defecation. 36.9% (133/361) was the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection. 88.7% monoinfection, E.histolytica/dispar (41%) and H.nana( 10.2%) were most prevalent parasites. 26.7%) was commonest. 11.28%coinfection, G. intestinalis with A. duodenale (26.7%) was commonest. In our study only hand washing was independent predictor having Odds Ratio of 3.6 with confidence interval 1.00-13.00(those who don’t wash hands before meals are 3.6 times more likely to develop infection). Only few studies address migrant construction workers, their nomadic behaviour makes them vulnerable for intestinal parasitic infections and not benefitting from prevention programmes as deworming programme.
Lobocalines A–I: Antibacterial Diterpenes and Steroids From the South China Sea Soft Coral Lobophytum catalai
Authors: Zhu Sheng-Hui , Chang Yuan-Min , Su Ming-Zhi , Yao Li-Gong , Li Song-Wei , Wang Hong , GUO Yue-Wei
Published: January 2024

Five new cembrane-type diterpenes, lobocalines A–E (1–5), and four new steroids, lobocalines F–I (9–12), along with six known related compounds (6–8 and 13–15) were isolated from the Yalong Bay soft coral Lobophytum catalai. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis, NMR calculation with DP4+ analysis, time-dependent density functional theory-electronic circular dichroism (TDDFT-ECD) calculations, X-ray diffraction analyses, and the comparison with the reported spectroscopic data of known compounds. Further, with the aid of X-ray diffraction analysis, the structure of lobocrasol B (15) was firmly revised as 15a. In in vitro bioassays, compound 2 showed moderate antibacterial activities against fish pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus parauberis KSP28 and Phoyobacterium damselae FP2244 with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 8.7 and 17.3 µg/mL, respectively. All the steroids exhibited antibacterial activities against the S. parauberis KSP28 with MIC values ranging from 12.3 to 53.6 µg/mL. Compounds 2, 7 and 14 have remarkable inhibitory effects on the hemolysin production of Staphylococcus aureus, while compounds 8–12 have medium inhibitory effects on the pyocyanin production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
A Comprehensive Review on the Impact of Climate-Induced Livelihood, Health and Migration on Women and Girls
Authors: Bhardwaj Laxmi Kant , Rath Prangya , Yadav Poornima
Published: January 2024

Climate change is one of the widely acknowledged challenges faced by international communities in the 21st century. It poses challenges to fundamental elements of our understanding of appropriate goals for socioeconomic policies, such as the connection of prosperity, growth, equity and sustainable development. Human activities-induced climatic changes have been widely perceived as threatening criteria for the long-term resilience of societies and communities throughout the world. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (UNIPCC) reported that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels for energy generation, is changing the climate of Earth. Despite contributing less towards the causes, poor citizens of developing countries bear a lot of its impacts. In particular, women and girls face a major impact and finally, they migrate due to the social gender division and scarcity of food. Studies on gender and climate change-induced migration are scarce. This study provides an overview of the induced impact of climate change on the livelihood, health and migration of women and girls. The aim of this study would significantly advance our understanding of the current inter-linkages between migration, displacement patterns and climate change impacts.
Groundwater Hydraulics in Increased Spring Discharge Following Earthquakes: Some Applications and Considerations
Authors: Pérez Eugenio Sanz , Mosquera-Feijóo Juan Carlos , Sanz de Ojeda Joaquín , Rosas-Rodrigo Pablo
Published: January 2024

Earthquakes often entail alterations in the groundwater flow regime, in the phreatic level, in the surge and loss of springs, and discharge in brooks and springs. As for the latter, there are diverse feasible mechanisms, so there is a variety of theoretical approaches to elucidate the post-earthquake effects on spring discharge. This study adopts a conceptual approach, primarily presenting various methods for estimating water released by earthquakes by calculating discharge surpluses in springs. This study delves into refined techniques rooted in groundwater hydraulics, displaying applications of analytical and simulation methodologies to quantify seismic-induced groundwater discharge in springs. Investigating springs as natural indicators, this research applies mathematical precipitation-runoff models, specifically the CREC model, for simulating hydrographs in post-earthquake scenarios. We apply analytical procedures or mathematical simulation techniques employed in groundwater hydraulics for natural aquifer recharge calculations. Firstly, we briefly describe the methods based on the analysis of depletion curves of hydrographs in spring discharge. Additionally, certain mathematical rainfall-runoff models utilized in simulating hydrographs of karstic springs, along with derived analytical approximations, are adapted for this scenario. These hydraulic calculations involve the depletion coefficient and hydrodynamic volumes of aquifers, parameters that reveal certain aspects of the relation between groundwater and earthquakes, such as: a) Acknowledging faults as the primary geological structures in transmitting pore pressures due to earthquakes. b) Clarifying mechanisms of permeability enhancement during earthquakes. c) Highlighting the substantial volumes in motion within the Earth's interior, which, for instance, could constitute a significant source for the origin of mineral deposits. The findings highlight diverse features of the complex interplay between hydrogeological and tectonic processes at challenging spatial and temporal scales.
Sporadic Inclusion Body Myositis at the Crossroad between Muscle Degeneration, Inflammation and Aging
Authors: Guglielmi Valeria , Cheli Marta , Tonin Paola , Vattemi Gaetano
Published: January 2024

Sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM) is the most common muscle disease of older people and is clinically characterized by slowly progressive asymmetrical muscle weakness, predominantly affecting quadriceps, deep finger flexors and foot extensors. At present there are no enduring treatments for this relentless disease that eventually leads to severe disability and wheelchair dependency. Although sIBM is considered a rare muscle disorder, its prevalence is certainly higher as the disease is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The histopathogical phenotype of sIBM muscle biopsy includes muscle fiber degeneration and endomysial lymphocytic infiltrates that mainly consist of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells surrounding nonnecrotic muscle fibers expressing MHCI. Muscle fiber degeneration is characterized by vacuolization and accumulation of congophilic misfolded multi-protein aggregates, mainly in their non-vacuolated cytoplasm. Many players have been identified in sIBM pathogenesis including environmental factors, autoimmunity, abnormalities of protein transcription and processing, accumulation of several toxic proteins, impairment of autophagy and ubiquitin proteasome system, oxidative and nitrative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, myonuclear degeneration, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Aging has been also proposed as a contributor to the disease. However, the interplay between these processes and the primary event that leads to the coexistence of autoimmune and degenerative changes is still under debate. Here, we outline our current understanding of disease pathogenesis, focusing on degenerative mechanisms, and discuss the possible involvement of aging.
Outcomes of Pregnancy Affected by Overt Type 2 Diabetes in a Diabetic Care Unit of Padova
Authors: Dalfrà Maria Grazia , Burlina Silvia , Fioretti Maria Giulia , Lapolla Annunziata , Lapolla Annunziata
Published: January 2024

Pregestational diabetes mellitus, if not well controlled, determines maternal and fetal complications. According to the new diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus can also occur in early pregnancy (overt diabetes ).The aim of this study was to determine pregnancy outcomes in women with overt type 2 diabetes. In this retrospective study we selected women with type 2 diabetes, pregestational or overt diabetes, who had at least one pregnancy followed in the period 2010-2022 at the Diabetic Care Unit of Padova.We analyzed 83 pregnancies in 68 diabetic patients; overt diabetes was diagnosed in 21,7% of pregnancies . 95% of patents with overt diabetes was immigrate . None of patients with overt type 2 diabetes planned their pregnancy, while pregnancy was planned in 26,3% of patients with pregestationalType 2 diabetes. Pre-pregnancy and first trimester glycemic control was worst in patients with overt diabetes(HbA1c 9.7± 3.1% vs 7.3% ± 2.3%, p< 0.044 at first visit; 8.1±1.9%, and 7.0±1.6%, p< 0.037 in the first trimester) with respect to type 2 diabetic mothers.As for maternal outcomes, 16,6% of pregnancy ended in miscariage and 5,5% of women developed gestational hypertension . 16,6% of newborn were LGA and 11,1% were affected by congenital anomalies. The high rate of congenital malformations in overt diabetes pregnancies is probably due to the worse metabolic control during the first trimester of pregnancy, when the organogenesis of the fetus takes place. So it is essential to identify these patients in the preconception phase so they can conceive in good glycemic control.
Enhancing Healthcare Professionals' Culinary Skills, Food Management, Counseling Confidence, and Mediterranean Diet Adherence through a Culinary Medicine Boot Camp: A Pilot Implementation Program (PIP)
Authors: Fernando Joan , Alonso Lucía , Gastaldo Isabella , Coll Alba , Lozano Josep , Martini Vinicius , Roura Elena , Williamson Lina , Escarrabill Joan , Moizé Violeta
Published: January 2024

Introduction: In an era of increasing public awareness regarding the pivotal role of nutrition in the onset and progression of chronic degenerative diseases, there is a growing demand for information and assistance pertaining to the intricate relationship between diet and disease. Nutritional practices, therefore, emerge as a fundamental element in the prevention and management of these maladies, necessitating a proactive response from healthcare professionals (HCP). This study sought to evaluate the impact of participation in a Culinary Medicine (CM) program on Mediterranean diet adherence, food management skills, culinary proficiency, and counseling confidence among HCP.

Methods: A mixed-methods pilot implementation program (PIP) was meticulously designed and executed, engaging a cohort of 20 HCP recruited from Hospital Clinic Barcelona. The program unfolded at the Alícia Foundation kitchen-lab and encompassed a series of interactive, hands-on sessions that delved into the realms of gastronomy, food management, culinary skills, and culinary diet therapy, with a specific focus on prevalent diseases and their prevention, treatment, and care. Tailored questionnaires were administered to all participants both before and after the PIP.

Results: Of the 20 participants, 14 successfully completed the study, comprising 86% women, 86% aged above 40, 71% nurses, and 7% medical doctors. Interestingly, 86% of the participants had previously received nutrition training, whereas only 14% had received culinary training. Following the completion of the program, there was a remarkable improvement in adherence to the Mediterranean diet (p < 0.01). However, no statistically significant improvements were observed in food management and culinary skills or counseling confidence (p > 0.5). Despite the absence of statistical significance, there was a noteworthy trend towards greater advocacy for dietary changes before resorting to medication, along with enhanced confidence in providing nutritional and culinary guidance to patients.

Conclusion: The findings from this study underscore the potential of hands-on CM training as a vital component of nutrition education for HCP. While statistically significant improvements in certain domains were not observed, the program did demonstrate its ability to influence attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors related to healthy cooking and eating for both HCP themselves and their patients. Given these promising trends, future studies with a larger sample size must be performed to further elucidate the impact of CM training on HCP and its potential benefits for public health.
Chemogenetics Modulation of Electroacupuncture Analgesia in Mice Spared Nerve Injury-Induced Neuropathic Pain through TRPV1 Signalling Pathway
Authors: Hsiao I-Han , Yen Chia-Ming , Hsu Hsin-Cheng , Liao Hsien-Yin , Lin Yi-Wen
Published: January 2024

Neuropathic pain is initiated by a malfunction of the somatosensory cortex system. Acupuncture had been shown to have therapeutic effects for neuropathic pain, although with uncertain mechanisms. We used electroacupuncture (EA) to treat mice spared nerve injury (SNI) model and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms through novel chemogenetic techniques. Both me-chanical and thermal pain were found in SNI mice till four weeks (mechanical: 3.23 ± 0.29 g; thermal: 4.9 ± 0.14 s). Hyperalgesia was attenuated by 2 Hz EA (mechanical: 4.05 ± 0.19 g; ther-mal: 6.22 ± 0.26 s) but not with sham EA (mechanical: 3.13 ± 0.23 g; thermal: 4.58 ± 0.37 s), sug-gesting EA’s specificity. In addition, animals with transient receptor potential V1 (Trpv1) deletion showed no significant induction of neuropathic pain (mechanical: 4.43 ± 0.26 g; thermal: 6.24 ± 0.09 s). Moreover, we found increased levels of inflammatory factors such as interleukin-1 beta (IL1-β), IL-3, IL-6, IL-12, IL-17, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interferon gamma after SNI modeling, which decreased in EA and Trpv1-/- group rather than sham group. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis showed similar tendency in the dorsal root ganglion, spinal cord dorsal horn, somatosensory cortex (SSC), and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). In addition, a novel chemogenetics method was used to precisely inhibit SSC to ACC activity showed an analgesic effect through TRPV1 pathway. In summary, our findings indicate a novel mechanism underlying neuropathic pain as beneficial targets for neuropathic pain.
EMS for Active and Reactive Power Management in a Polygenerative Microgrid feeding a PED
Authors: Sawhney Abhinav , Delfino Federico , Bonvini Barbara , Bracco Stefano
Published: January 2024

Energy management systems (EMS) play a central role in improving the performance of microgrids by ensuring their efficient operation while minimizing operational costs and environmental impacts. This paper presents a comprehensive study of a MILP-based EMS developed and implemented in MATLAB using Yalmip software for the energy management of a new positive energy district in the city of Savona, Italy, as part of the Interreg Alpine Space Project ALPGRIDS.
The main objective of this research is to optimize the functioning of the microgrid, focusing on cost efficiency and environmental sustainability. In pursuit of this objective, the EMS undergoes comprehensive testing and analysis, replicating actual conditions and addressing the diverse demands of end-users across typical days throughout the year considering real electricity selling and purchase price. The EMS also accounts for the reactive power capabilities of the various technologies integrated into the microgrid. The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) serves as a metric for assessing curtailment costs, while penalties related to reactive power absorption from the distribution network are appraised in alignment with prevailing regulatory guidelines.
The case study provides valuable insights into the practical implementation of EMS technology in microgrids and demonstrates its potential for sustainable energy management in complex urban energy districts. The insights and strategies developed through this research contribute to the overall goals of improving energy efficiency and reducing the environmental footprint of future energy districts.
An Innovative Information Hiding Scheme Based on Block-Wise Pixel Reordering
Authors: Liu Jui‐Chuan , Chi Hengxiao , Chang Ching-Chun , Chang Chin‐Chen
Published: January 2024

Information is uploaded and downloaded through the Internet day in and day out ever since we immersed ourselves in the Internet. Data security becomes an area demanding high attention and one of the efficient techniques to protect data is data hiding. Among various data hiding schemes, more applications prefer the schemes with reversibility. In recent reversible data hiding studies, the indices of a codebook can be reordered to hide secret bits. The hiding capacity of the codeword index reordering scheme increases when the size of the codebook gets larger. Since the codewords in the codebook are not modified, the visual performance of compressed images is retained. We propose a novel scheme making use of the fundamental principle of codeword index reordering technique to hide secret data in encrypted images. By observing our experimental results, the embedding capacity is significantly larger. Secret data can be extracted when a receiver owns a data hiding key and image can be recovered when a receiver owns an encryption key.
Design, Characterization, and Preliminary Assessment of a Two-Degree-of-Freedom Powered Ankle-Foot Prosthesis
Authors: Hsieh Tsung-Han , Song Hyun Geon , Shu Tony , Qiao Junqing , Yeon Seong Ho , Carney Mattew , Mooney Luke , Duval Jean-François , Herr Hugh
Published: January 2024

Powered ankle prostheses have been proven to improve the walking economy of people with transtibial amputation. All commercial powered ankle prostheses that are currently available can only perform one-degree-of-freedom motion in a limited range. However, studies have shown that the frontal plane motion during ambulation is associated with balancing. In addition, as more advanced neural interfaces have become available for people with amputation, it is possible to fully recover ankle function by combining neural signals and a robotic ankle. Accordingly, there is a need for a powered ankle prosthesis that can have active control on not only plantarflexion and dorsiflexion but also eversion and inversion. We designed, built, and evaluated a two-degree-of-freedom (2-DoF) powered ankle-foot prosthesis that is untethered and can support level-ground walking. Benchtop tests were conducted to characterize the dynamics of the system. Walking trials were performed with a 77 kg subject that has unilateral transtibial amputation to evaluate system performance under realistic conditions. Benchtop tests demonstrated a step response rise time of less than 50 milliseconds for a torque of 40 N·m on each actuator. The closed-loop torque bandwidth of the actuator is 9.74 Hz. Walking trials demonstrated torque tracking errors (root mean square) of less than 7 N·m. These results suggested that the device can perform adequate torque control and support level-ground walking. This prosthesis can serve as a platform for studying biomechanics related to balance and has the possibility of further recovering the biological function of the ankle-subtalar-foot complex beyond the existing powered ankles.
Time to First Abrasion: A Comparative Evaluation of Flip Flop Strap Designs on Preserved Fetal Pig Skin and Implications for Dorsal Foot Health
Authors: Rao Shreya , Edwards William
Published: January 2024

Objective: To compare the incidence of skin abrasions caused by traditional straight edge flip flop straps versus rolled inner seam (RIS) designs in a controlled laboratory setting using preserved fetal pig skin as a proxy for human skin.Methods: This study utilized a custom-built apparatus to apply friction from two flip flop strap designs to preserved fetal pig skin samples. Three trials were conducted for each strap design to determine the time to initial abrasion onset. A paired t-test was employed for statistical analysis.Results: The RIS design demonstrated a statistically significant delay in abrasion onset compared to the standard design across all trials (p < 0.05), indicating a gentler interaction with the skin.Conclusion: The RIS strap design may offer a beneficial alternative to traditional straps by reducing the friction that can lead to skin abrasions, suggesting a potential to decrease the risk of dorsal foot ulcers. Further studies involving human subjects are warranted to validate these findings in a real-world context.Keywords: Flip flop strap design, skin abrasions, dorsal foot ulcers, footwear design, developing countries, diabetic foot care.
A Polysaccharide-Based Integrated Nutrient Management System Enhances the Antioxidant Properties in Origanum dictamnus (Lamiaceae), a Local Endemic Plant of Crete with Antimicrobial Potential
Authors: Paschalidis Konstantinos A , Fanourakis Dimitrios , Tsaniklidis Georgios , Tzanakakis Vasileios A. , Kardamaki Ioanna , Bilias Fotis , Samara Eftihia , Ipsilantis Ioannis , Grigoriadou Katerina , Matsi Theodora , Tsoktouridis Georgios , Krigas Nikos
Published: January 2024

Origanum dictamnus L. (Lamiaceae), a local endemic plant of Crete (Greece), creates polysaccharide-containing subcuticular compartments presenting biological activity against phytopathogenic fungi, and, among others, significantly affecting the fungal cell wall polysaccharides. This field study introduces a fertilization scheme for O. dictamnus, which was developed and refined to optimize yield as well as critical herbal quality aspects. Five fertilization schemes were investigated, based on a polysaccharide-based Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), a mixture of chemical fertilizers and two biostimulants (not algae) via foliar and soil application. Plant growth, together with leaf chlorophyll fluorescence and colour (SPAD meter, DA meter, Chroma Meter) were determined. The leaf content of chlorophyll, three critical antioxidant compounds (carotenoids, flavonoids, phenols) and minerals were also assessed. Considering all three antioxidants together, the enhanced efficiency, non-toxic, water-soluble, polysaccharide-based INM by foliar application was the most stimulatory scheme, playing an important role in plant growth and development. The present field study provides for the first time baseline fertilization data improving key herbal quality features in O. dictamnus and unravels the attainment of high antioxidant properties. The latter may be exploited in favor of its further utilization as raw material for tea preparation, medicinal purposes, natural food flavoring and/or food preservative.