bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales in patients with bacteraemia at tertiary academic hospitals in South Africa, 2019 - 2020: An update
Authors: Lowe M , Shuping L , Perovic O
Published: August 2022

Background. The emergence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) has become a serious and significant public health threat worldwide, owing to the limited antimicrobial therapy options, and the elevated mortality rates associated with these infections.Objectives. To present an update on the epidemiology of CRE bloodstream infections among hospitalised patients reported under the Group for Enteric, Respiratory and Meningeal Diseases Surveillance in South Africa (GERMS-SA) between January 2019 and December 2020. Methods. Patients of all ages with CRE bacteraemia were included and isolates, when available, were sent to the reference laboratory for confirmatory testing and molecular characterisation. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess factors associated with in-hospital mortality.

Results. We included 2 144 patients with CRE bacteraemia with a median age of 33 (interquartile range 1 - 51) years, of whom 1 145 (54.2%) were male. Klebsiella pneumoniae accounted for 79.8% of infections (n=863/1 082), of which 89.5% (n=611/683) were healthcare associated (HA). The most common carbapenemase genes were carbapenem-hydrolysing oxacillinase-48 (blaOXA-48-like) (76.8%; n=761/991), New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (blaNDM) (21.1%; n=209/991) and Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase (blaVIM) (1.3%; n=13/991). None of the screened isolates with a colistin minimum inhibitory concentration >2 μg/mL harboured the mobilised colistin resistance (mcr)-1 to mcr-5 genes. The crude in-hospital mortality rate was 36.6% (n=377/1 029). Patients aged ≥60 years (v. 1.6 - 9 years) (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 4.53; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.21 - 9.28), those with comorbidities (diabetes, malignancy, renal and/or cardiovascular failure) (aOR 1.72; 95% CI 1.17 - 2.52), those with altered mental state (aOR 5.36; 95% CI 3.21 - 8.92) and those with previous antimicrobial use (aOR 1.88; 95% CI 1.27 - 2.77) had increased odds of in-hospital mortality.

Conclusion. The epidemiology of CRE bloodstream infections remained similar compared with the previous surveillance report. Most infections were HA and caused by OXA-48-like carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae with no plasmid-mediated colistin resistance. Standard infection control measures should be strengthened.
The tragedy of smoking, alcohol, and multiple substance use during pregnancy
Authors: Brink L T , Springer P E , Nel D G , Potter M D , Odendaal H J
Published: August 2022

Background. Antenatal substance use is a significant public health concern in South Africa (SA). Information on smoking, drinking and drug use during pregnancy was collected prospectively for the Safe Passage Study of the PASS (Prenatal Alcohol in Sudden infant death syndrome and Stillbirth) Network.Objectives. Data from 4 926 pregnant women in a community near Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, were examined to determine whether associations between different substance use groups and postnatal infant outcomes at birth and 1 year were significant.Methods. Gestational age (GA) was determined by earliest ultrasound. Maternal data were collected at enrolment or first antenatal visit. Substance use data were obtained at up to four occasions. Birthweight data were derived from medical records, and birthweight z-scores (BWZs) were specifically calculated using INTERGROWTH-21st study data. Statistical analyses were done with Statistica version 13. Results. Women who used more substances enrolled later, were younger, and had smaller mid-upper arm circumferences (MUACs), less education and lower monthly income than women who used no substances (control group). Infants born to women who used more substances had lower GA at delivery, birthweight and BWZ than infants from the control group. At 1 year, infants born to women who used more substances had a lower weight, shorter length and smaller head circumference. Education was positively associated with all infant outcomes at birth and 1 year. MUAC was positively associated with infant BWZ, and weight and length at 1 year. Income was negatively associated with BWZ, but positively associated with all 1-year outcomes.Conclusion. Substance use during pregnancy affects infant outcomes at birth and 1 year of age. The addictive properties of substance use make cessation difficult, so prevention strategies should be implemented long before pregnancy. Higher maternal education, associated with better infant outcomes at birth and 1 year and acting as a countermeasure to substance use, is of paramount importance.
Right of Reply
Authors: Andronikou S , Lotz J W , Bhorat I , Buchamann E , Soma-Pillay P , Nicolaou E , Pistorius L , Smuts I
Published: August 2022

To the Editor: The article by Bhorat et al. [1] in the SAMJ, entitled ‘Cerebral palsy and criteria implicating intrapartum hypoxia in neonatal encephalopathy – an obstetric perspective for the South African setting’, starts off by raising concerns about ‘steep rises in insurance premiums, placing service delivery under serious threat’. It does not acknowledge any service delivery issues that already exist in the public sector obstetric services in South Africa (SA). According to Whittaker,[2] in 2019, there were 303 obstetricians and gynaecologists employed in the SA public sector and 579 in the private sector, and of those employed in the public sector, 190 were performing private sector work. That a large number of the children with cerebral palsy (CP) were delivered in the public sector service was not noted by Bhorat et al.,[1] nor was the fact that the overwhelming majority of court cases are against the state (not against individual doctors) in provinces and hospitals with significant medical staffing and resource issues. For example, the liabilities for Eastern Cape Province in the 2019/20 period were ZAR36 751 207 v. only ZAR33 155 in Western Cape Province for the same period.[2]
Focal seizures are organized by feedback between neural activity and ion concentration changes
Authors: Gentiletti Damiano , de Curtis Marco , Gnatkovsky Vadym , Suffczynski Piotr
Published: August 2022

Human and animal EEG data demonstrate that focal seizures start with low-voltage fast activity, evolve into rhythmic burst discharges and are followed by a period of suppressed background activity. This suggests that processes with dynamics in the range of tens of seconds govern focal seizure evolution. We investigate the processes associated with seizure dynamics by complementing the Hodgkin-Huxley mathematical model with the physical laws that dictate ion movement and maintain ionic gradients. Our biophysically realistic computational model closely replicates the electrographic pattern of a typical human focal seizure characterized by low voltage fast activity onset, tonic phase, clonic phase and postictal suppression. Our study demonstrates, for the first time in silico, the potential mechanism of seizure initiation by inhibitory interneurons via the initial build-up of extracellular K+ due to intense interneuronal spiking. The model also identifies ionic mechanisms that may underlie a key feature in seizure dynamics, that is, progressive slowing down of ictal discharges towards the end of seizure. Our model prediction of specific scaling of inter-burst intervals is confirmed by seizure data recorded in the whole guinea pig brain in vitro and in humans, suggesting that the observed termination pattern may hold across different species. Our results emphasize ionic dynamics as elementary processes behind seizure generation and indicate targets for new therapeutic strategies.
Effectiveness of physical activity on immunity markers and quality of life in cancer patient: a systematic review
Authors: AL-Mhanna Sameer Badri , Wan Ghazali Wan Syaheedah , Mohamed Mahaneem , Rabaan Ali A. , Santali Eman Y. , H. Alestad Jeehan , Santali Enas Y. , Arshad Sohaib , Ahmed Naveed , Afolabi Hafeez Abiola
Published: August 2022

Background

Cancer is a huge group of diseases that can affect various body parts of humans but also has a psychological, societal, and economic impact. Physical activity can improve the quality of life (QOL) and immunity, while moderate intensity exercise can reduce the probability of this lethal disease. The current study aimed to determine the effect of physical activity on immune markers and QOL in cancer patients as well as to evaluate cancer-related fatigue (CRF) and its association with physical activity.

Methodology

Before starting the study, the study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (registration number CRD42021273292). An electronic literature search was performed by combining MeSH terminology and keywords used with the Boolean operators “OR” and “AND” to find relevant published studies on PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect databases. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical evaluation checklist was used to assess the quality of selected studies, while the GRADE approach was used to see the quality of evidence.

Results

A total of 13,931 studies were retrieved after the search on databases. After the scrutiny of studies by reading the title of articles and the inclusion/exclusion criteria, a total of 54 studies were selected for further screening by reading the full texts. In the final, a total of nine studies were selected for the current systematic review and proceeded for data extraction. The patients who were doing different exercises showed improvements in immunity, QOL, and reduction in CRF. A significant reduction in tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), C reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-8 (IL-8), IL-6, and an increase in natural killer (NK) cells levels was also observed.

Conclusions

The exercise program is safe and beneficial to improve the quality of life and immunity markers before, during, and after cancer treatment. Physical exercise may also help patients to overcome the adverse effects of the treatment and to reduce the chance of developing new tumours in the future.
Digital technology for orthognathic surgery training promotion: a randomized comparative study
Authors: Su Zhan , Liu Yao , Zhao Wenli , Bai Yuanyan , Jiang Nan , Zhu Songsong
Published: August 2022

Background

This study aims to investigate whether a systematic digital training system can improve the learning efficiency of residents in the first-year orthognathic surgery training course and evaluate its effectiveness in teaching orthognathic surgery.

Methods

A digital training system was applied, and a comparative research approach was adopted. 24 first-year orthognathic surgery residents participated in the experiment as part of their professional skill training. The Experimental group was required to use a digital training system, and the Control group was trained in lectures without digital technologies. Three indicators, including theoretical knowledge and clinical operation, were assessed in tests, and evaluations from instructors were analyzed to evaluate learning efficiency.

Results

The results showed that the scores in theoretical tests, practical operations, and teacher evaluations, the Experimental groups were all higher than the Control group (P = 0.002 for anatomy,P = 0.000 for operation theory) after using digital technology, except for the understanding of complications (P = 0.771). In addition, the questionnaire survey results showed that the study interest (P = 0.001), self-confidence (P = 0.001), satisfaction (P = 0.002), and academic performance (P = 0.001) of the residents of the Experimental group were higher than those of the Control group.

Conclusions

The outcomes indicated that the digital training system could benefit orthognathic residents’ learning efficiency, and learning interest and teaching satisfaction will also improve.
Advanced oxidation protein products induce annulus fibrosus cell senescence through a NOX4-dependent, MAPK-mediated pathway and accelerate intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Dai Xiangheng , Chen Yu , Yu Zihan , Liao Congrui , Liu Zhongyuan , Chen Jianting , Wu Qian
Published: August 2022

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is closely associated with senescence. Annulus fibrosus (AF) cell senescence is a crucial driver of AF tissue tearing and fissures, thereby exacerbating IVDD. Increased advanced oxidative protein products (AOPPs) were found in human degenerative discs and aged rat discs and may be involved in IVDD. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of AOPPs-induced senescence in AF cells.

Methods

The pathological effects of AOPPs in vivo were investigated using a rat lumbar disc persistent degeneration model and a rat caudal disc puncture model. Rat primary AF cells were selected as in vitro models, and AOPPs were used as direct stimulation to observe their pathological effects. Setanaxb (NOX1/4 inhibitor), apocynin (NADPH oxidase inhibitor) and adenovirus (ADV) packed NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) specific shRNAs were used for pathway inhibition, respectively. Finally, adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) packed with NOX4-specific blocking sequences were used to inhibit the in vivo pathway.

Results

AOPPs accumulated in the rat lumbar and caudal degenerative discs. Intra-discal loading of AOPPs up-regulated the expression of NOX4, p53, p21, p16, IL-1β, and TNF-α, ultimately accelerating IVDD. Exposure of AOPPs to AF primary cells up-regulated NOX4 expression, induced phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), triggered senescence and increased IL-1β and TNF-α. Apocynin, setanaxib, and ADV pre-cultured AF cells abrogated AOPPs-induced senescence. AAV-mediated inhibition of NOX4 expression in vivo reduced the expression of p53, p21, p16, IL-1β and TNF-α in vivo and delayed IVDD.

Conclusions

AOPPs induced AF cell senescence through a NOX4-dependent and MAPK-mediated pathway.
Modeling the potential distribution of different types of Dendrocalamus sinicus, the strongest woody bamboo in the world, with MaxEnt model
Authors: Dou Peitong , Dong Yuran , Chen Lingna , Yang Han-Qi
Published: August 2022

Climate change will significantly affect the distribution area of species. Through establishing distribution model, we can simulate the current and future potential distribution range and provide reference for the introduction and cultivation planning of rare or economic plants. Dendrocalamus sinicus, endemic to Yunnan Province of China, is the strongest woody bamboo in the world. In the present study, the MaxEnt model was performed to simulate the distribution of different types of D. sinicus in China and neighboring countries or regions. The results suggested that the suitable distribution range of “straight type”, the main type for cultivation and utilization, was 8°–30°N and 73°–122°E under the current climate conditions, while the potential distribution range of “bending type” was 6°–31°N and 79°–109°E. The two most key climate variables associated with distribution of “straight type” were “Temperature Annual Range” with 36.6% contribution rate and “Temperature Seasonality” (32.4%), while “Isothermality” (47.8%) and “Precipitation of Driest Month” (24.8%) for “bending type”. Under different climate change scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP5-8.5) and periods (2050, 2090), the potential distribution area of the “straight type” were apparently different, indicating that the distribution area of D. sinicus will be affected significantly by climate changes in the future. Our findings would be not only beneficial to understanding limiting factors for natural distribution of D. sinicus, but also helpful for further germplasm conservation, introduction and cultivation planning of this rare woody bamboo.
Statistical Characteristics of Scattering Ratio Based on Three Optical Wavelengths for Smoke Particles
Authors: Han Kyuwon , Kim Soocheol , Yang Hoesung , Cho Kwang Soo , Lee Kangbok , Han Ho-Sik
Published: August 2022

Photoelectric smoke detectors, which operate by reacting to the scattering of light caused by particles entering the light path, are widely used and extremely sensitive. Owing to higher standards imposed by Underwriters Laboratories, researchers have begun analyzing the properties of smoke particles. In particular, several wavelengths are used to classify particles by their scattering reactivity. The performances of actual smoke detectors are limited by their hardware and price. Therefore, properties that can distinguish particle types in these limited conditions must be determined. In addition, algorithms for extracting valid data intervals from unstable scattering data must be developed. In this study, scattering intensity ratios for three wavelengths are derived via simulations of light scattering by particles. An upper cumulative sum is defined for the three wavelengths, and an index for the start of particle inflow is extracted. In addition, valid intervals are extracted based on the scattering intensity ratios and the moving variance of adjacent wavelengths, and the properties of each particle are defined using the extracted indexes. For verification, a data acquisition device that can obtain data using the three selected wavelengths (470, 525, and 850 nm) from two sensors is designed. Five types of fire sources and non-fire alarm sources are selected and used in a test chamber designed to generate particle data. After applying the algorithm, the data in the valid data intervals can be used to derive a sample mean scattering intensity ratio that is more constant than that of the overall data or the data processed using the CUSUM index. In addition, the fire sources have a higher sample mean scattering intensity ratio than water vapor, which is a non-fire alarm source. The scattering intensity ratios for smoke particles can be extracted in real time via a comparison with experimental results obtained from the selected sensors.
Dilemas do processo de sucessão: desafios da gestão familiar frente ao crescimento acelerado
Authors: Souza Marina Caetano , Souza Jenifer , Cembranel Priscila
Published: August 2022

O estudo refere-se a uma empresa familiar de pequeno/médio porte situada no Estado de Santa Catarina/SC que passa por dificuldades administrativas, sucessórias e de relacionamento familiar. Através de um estudo de caso nesta empresa, busca-se entender o processo de sucessão em empresas familiares, e identificar os mecanismos que levam as empresas familiares a errarem no processo de sucessão, adaptando os problemas às possíveis soluções. Tendo como objetivos específicos analisar as interferências e dificuldades dos relacionamentos, propor soluções para resolução de problemas administrativos e discutir a percepção dos herdeiros sobre a possibilidade de sucessão na empresa familiar. Ao aplicar o questionário na empresa, obtiveram-se respostas parecidas na maioria das perguntas. Os fundadores e sucessores têm ciência dos problemas administrativos da empresa e de como a relação familiar é prejudicada com a extrapolação do ambiente profissional para o pessoal. Também é abordado sobre a importância da profissionalização da mão de obra e o processo de sucessão, discorrendo sobre as dificuldades, cobranças e inseguranças do sucessor.
Análise documental da matriz curricular do curso de Secretariado Executivo Trilíngue na Universidade Federal de Viçosa: o egresso está preparado para organizar eventos?
Authors: Nogueira Gabriela Boner , Franklin Luiza Amália Soares
Published: August 2022

A produção de eventos nas organizações do segundo setor é considerada como um instrumento institucional promocional, que objetiva creditar conceitos positivos acerca de sua imagem, ideia, serviço ou produto. Compreende-se que por meio sua capacidade multiplicadora, os eventos possuem influência na expansão comercial da empresa, atingindo com assertividade o seu público de interesse, resultando no aumento das vendas e na popularização da marca. Consequentemente, busca-se identificar quais são os profissionais habilitados para realizar essa atividade, destacando os de Turismo, Relações Públicas e Secretários Executivos. Dentro disso, realizou-se uma análise documental que verificou se o egresso de Secretariado Executivo Trilíngue da Universidade Federal de Viçosa está pronto, de acordo com a Matriz Curricular do curso, para organizar eventos. A pesquisa observou as ementas e unidades didáticas das disciplinas, a fim de verificar se os tópicos ensinados em sala condizem com o desenvolvimento de competências e habilidades necessárias para os organizadores de eventos. Constatou-se que o curso prepara os egressos, principalmente quanto aos assuntos relacionados à Comunicação e Assertividade, Planejamento, Organização, Gestão de Tempo e Equipes e Consciência sobre Investimentos.
Os estágios do empreendedorismo social no projeto Gastromotiva
Authors: Bonfim Giovani , Parisotto Iara Regina dos Santos , De Miranda Ronaldo Leão
Published: August 2022

A sociedade civil tem buscado por meio do empreendedorismo social soluções inovadoras e sustentáveis. O projeto Gastromotiva surge com o intuito de tirar indivíduos da condição de excluídos socialmente por meio da capacitação em gastronomia. Neste contexto, este estudo tem por objetivo analisar os estágios de desenvolvimento do empreendedorismo social no projeto Gastromotiva. Optou-se por um estudo de abordagem qualitativa e caráter descritivo. Os resultados demonstraram que a Gastromotiva passou por todos os estágios de desenvolvimento do empreendedorismo social. A identificação de oportunidades ocorreu após a visita do fundador a uma favela, quando ele sentiu que havia potencial nos indivíduos que lá viviam. A avaliação de oportunidades, começou quando o fundador avaliou utilizar seus conhecimentos e a rede de contatos que possuía para iniciar um empreendimento social naquela localidade. A formalização de oportunidades, desenrolou-se por meio do aprimoramento das atividades, definindo os princípios norteadores do projeto, os valores, o enquadramento jurídico da atividade, bem como a questão dos voluntários do projeto. A exploração de oportunidades, ocorreu de forma natural no projeto, pois os resultados iniciais atraíram outros empreendedores que formaram redes, parceiros que proporcionaram o aporte de recursos financeiros, materiais e de estruturas, o que possibilitou que o projeto se expandisse. E quanto ao último estágio do empreendedorismo social, o escalonamento de oportunidades, foi por meio do desejo do fundador que se criou uma tecnologia social capaz de ser replicada em outros contextos, proporcionando mudança e criação de oportunidades para indivíduos de outras localidades.
Effect of Preoperative Oral Melatonin on Postoperative Sedation and Analgesia among Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery under General Anaesthesia: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Gandhi Monika , Singh Shrutika , Arora Kishore Kumar , Barde Ravi
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Postoperative pain is one of the major causes of dissatisfaction and prolonged hospital stay in patients undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia. Melatonin has been used for sleep regulation and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) sedation but there is limited knowledge regarding its effect postoperative analgesia and sedation. Aim: To evaluate the effects of preoperative melatonin on postoperative sedation and analgesia. Materials and Methods: This randomised controlled study was conducted from June 2020 to June 2021, at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College and M.Y. Hospital, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. Total 100 patients belonging to American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade I and II of either gender, of age 18 to 60 years who were planned for elective surgery under general anaesthesia were randomly divided into two groups. Group M (n=50) was given 6 mg oral melatonin (two capsules of 3 mg each), and group C (n=50) was given multivitamin capsules, 90 minutes before induction of anaesthesia. General anaesthesia was induced using standard method for both the groups. Sedation score was assessed in preoperative period as well as after giving drugs and till 4 hours postoperatively by using Ramsay Sedation score. Pain was evaluated by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score till 8 hours postoperatively. Time of request of first rescue analgesia was noted and compared to that of control group. Results: At preoperative time sedation score was comparable between both the groups. At postoperative time, sedation score 4 was seen in significantly higher number of patients of group M in comparison to group C, while at all the other time intervals, sedation scores were comparable between the two groups. Mean VAS score was found to be significantly higher in group C (3.2±0.4) in comparison to group M (3.02±0.14), 4 hours postoperatively. The mean time to request for first rescue analgesia in group M was 7.27±1.01 hours and in group C was 5.40±0.78 hour (p-value=0.001). Conclusion: Preoperative oral melatonin can be used to effectively reduce the postoperative pain without producing undue sedation.
Optimization of Process Parameters for Adsorption of Phenol from Aqueous Solution Using Unripe Plantain Peels Activated Carbon
Authors: Udeh N. U. , Tanimomo S. O.
Published: August 2022

The study investigated the optimum conditions for the adsorption of phenol from aqueous solution using plantain peels activated carbon. Low-cost adsorbents were produced from unripe plantain peel by both physical and chemical activation processes at carbonization temperature of 400oC for 2 hrs. The chemical activated unwashed carbon (UPPAC) was activated with ZnCl2 at impregnation ratio of 1:2 while the physical activated carbon (NAPPC) was not impregnated with any chemical. The produced carbons were characterized in terms of surface area, porosity, iodine number, ash content, carbon yield and pH. The result showed that the physicochemical properties of UPPAC were significantly higher than those of NAPPC having surface area of 957 m2/g, porosity of 32.2%, iodine number of 736 mg/g, ash content of 9.02% and carbon yield of 65%. The optimum conditions for the adsorption of phenol from the aqueous solution using UPPAC was based on three variables, contact time, adsorbate concentration and adsorbate pH. A total of 27 experimental runs were used to study the effects of these parameters using the response surface methodology (RSM) as the experimental design. The result of the batch adsorption was found to increase with initial adsorbate concentration and contact time but decreases with increase adsorbate pH. UPPAC achieved optimum percentage removal of 91% at initial phenol concentration of 21 mg/g and its removal was pH dependent (pH 2), better at acidic conditions. The amount adsorbed also increased with contact time until equilibrium was reached at 150 mins. Thus, chemically activated unripe plantain peel can be used for the removal of phenol from aqueous solution.
Influence of the Consumption of Four Diets on the Biological Blood Parameters of Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica) Farmed in Côte D’ivoire
Authors: King N’Gbo Martin Luthère , Anon Hyacinthe Attoh , Josi-Noelline Sinh , Fagbohoun Jean Bedel , Kouamé Patrice Lucien
Published: August 2022

To ensure that newly formulated food (A1, A2 and A3) based on local products and commercial love (AT), fed to quail reared in captivity for 9 weeks, did not affect their health biologicaly, biochemical blood analysis were carried out on them at the end of the experiment. The results obtained show that the quails fed with A3 and AT foods have the highest respective crude protein levels (55.67 ± 1.70 and 55 ± 0.82 g/l). In addition, the blood Ca/P ratio which represents the index of a good metabolism of these electrolytes, between 1 and 2, is in accordance with the recommendations in force. In addition, the average urea and creatinine levels of all the quails studied are identical to those of the control quails. Similarly, in quail fed with commercial food AT, uricemia is the highest (66 ± 0.82 mg/l) in this study. Quails fed with commercial food AT have the highest cholesterol level (2.24 ± 0.04 g/l). However, quails fed with feed A3 are those with the lowest level of triglycerides (6.80 ± 0.02 g/l). Thus, consumption of the newly formulated feeds A1, A2 and A3 by quails did not affect their renal, hepatic, pancreatic and heart health like that of quails fed the commercial feed AT.
Is Defibrotide Prophylaxis Effective on Graft Versus Host Disease in Patients with Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation?
Authors: Yavaşoğlu İrfan , Turgutkaya Atakan , Küçükdiler Hilal Eroğlu , Kadıköylü Gürhan , Sargın Gökhan , Bolaman Ali Zahit
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) is one of the complications of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). Defibrotide (DF) is used effectively in SOS prophylaxis and treatment. Graft versus host disease (GVHD) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in allo-SCT. Here, we retrospectively investigated the effect of DF on the development of GVHD in these patients.

Methods: We evaluated 81 allo-transplanted patients due to various diagnoses (benign or malignant), retrospectively. Thirty-four patients used DF as prophylaxis while 47 patients did not receive it. Acute and chronic GVHD assessments were performed at +30/100th day and throughout the life of the patients, respectively.

Results: Acute GVHD was more common with DF use (82% vs 61%). There was no statistical significance in terms of the effect on chronic GVHD. We observed that one patient in the non- DF group developed SOS.

Conclusions: DF may be beneficial to prevent acute GVHD. However, we observed that GVHD and mortality were more common in patients using DF. This is probably due to the similarity of high-risk criteria between GVHD and SOS. We have not found a significant association between defibrotide use and the development of chronic GVHD.
Effect of Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria L.)
Authors: Sireesha Inaganti , Singh Devi
Published: August 2022

The present experiment was carried out in Research field, Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD), with 12 treatments, replicated thrice with Organic manures and inorganic fertilizers. The treatments rendered their significant effect on growth, flowering and yield characters as well as fruit yield of bottle gourd. Treatment consists of 25%NPK+75% Vermicompost was recorded maximum performances with respect to almost all the characters viz., growth, flowering and yield. Ii is concluded from the investigation that the treatment 25%NPK+ 75% vermicompost was found suitable for application in kharif season bottle gourd cultivation for better yield (50.59 t ha-1).
Molecular Docking of Mangrove Plant as Therapeutic Agent to Treat Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Hamzah Haidar Ali , Afladhanti Putri Mahirah , Romadhan Muhammad Despriansyah , Agustini Dessy , Deanasa Raehan Satya , Theodorus .
Published: August 2022

Background: Cancer is one of the biggest health problems worldwide, with lung cancer as the first rank in the number of new cases and deaths. Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is a type of lung cancer that accounts for about 85% of all lung cancer cases. Previous research identified the role of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as the most suitable target to treat NSCLC. This study aims to identify the potential compounds derived from mangrove plants as agents to treat NSCLC using a molecular docking study.  

Methodology: Six natural compounds, which include taraxasterol, stigmasterol, tretinoin, heritonin, ascochitine, and tricin, along with gefitinib as a drug comparative were used. Docking was carried out on EGFR as a receptor target by Autodock Tools. The visualizations of molecular interactions were carried out by BIOVIA Discovery Studio 2020. 

Results: The results showed that all six compounds were compiled from several criteria as drugs based on Lipinski analysis and had an affinity to EGFR receptors. The docking results were found in the order of stigmasterol (-11.84 kcal/mol), taraxasterol (10.80 kcal/mol), tretinoin (-10.60 kcal/mol), tricin (-9.24 kcal/mol), ascochitine (-7.85 kcal/mol), heritonin (-7.81 kcal/mol), and gefitinib (-8.62 kcal/mol). Among these natural compounds, stigmasterol exhibited the highest binding affinity. ADME profile showed that these natural compounds are safe and drug-like compounds. 

Conclusion: Stigmasterol exhibited the highest binding energy of -11.84 kcal/mol. All three compounds bind in the binding pocket of EGFR. All compounds have drug-likeness properties based on Lipinski rules.
Coliform Bacteria Profile of the Surface of Raw Salad Vegetables Sold in Open Markets in Owerri Metropolis, South Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Chinakwe E. C. , Nwogwugwu N. U. , Ajugwo G. C. , Madumere M. C. , Ngumah J. C. , Mike-Anosike E. E. , Nnadozie R. I. , Iwuji J. C.
Published: August 2022

The consumption of fresh vegetables has great health benefits. However, this has been linked to several food borne infections and disease outbreaks in the past because some of these vegetables have been identified as agents in the transmission of human food pathogens. This study examined the coliform bacteria profile of raw salad vegetables sold in open markets in Owerri metropolis, South Eastern Nigeria. The samples of different raw salad vegetables (cabbage, cucumber, carrot and tomatoes) bought from different vendors in open markets were examined for the presence of coliform bacteria. Surface wash water of samples were used for the enumeration of total and fecal coliforms. The results from the study showed that all the samples harboured coliform bacteria with the cabbage recording the highest coliform count (CA3= 2.8 x 107cfu/g on MacConkey agar) while the highest E. coli count occurred in tomato (TO3=2.7 x 106cfu/g on EMB agar); carrot (CB3= 2.6 x 104cfu/g on MacConkey agar)and cucumber (CU2= 3.9 x 102cfu/g on EMB agar) recorded the lowest coliform and E. coli counts respectively. The percentage prevalence of the isolates on the samples were Enterobacter species (83.3%), Escherichia coli (66.6%) and Klebsiella species (33.3%).The counts were obviously above the coliform acceptable limit (<100cfu/g) for salad vegetables. This suggests that salad vegetables used in this study are of public health concern because, they harbour microorganisms that could be hazardous to human health. Positive detection of coliforms (especially, E. coli) is an effective confirmation of fecal contamination, hence good hygiene measures should be observed throughout the processing chain and consumers should also practice appropriate hygiene during the preparation of salad vegetables for consumption. This will eventually help in reducing the microbial contents of the vegetables before consumption.
Editorial by Peter Hubbard
Authors: Hubbard Peter
Published: August 2022

Since our inception we have had the concept of ourselves as an umbrella organisation of psychotherapists. In embracing different modalities, we look for our similarities. listen for our differences, and attempt to define the common core competencies of our profession.
The original practitioners came together for professional warmth- and we still do. We have been pioneering something special by resisting the tendency to factionalise and split that has characterised the profession elsewhere, and by maintaining this uniquely inclusive consciousness.
Mind, Body and 'I'
Authors: Broom Brian C
Published: August 2022

How compartmentalised are mind and body in personal and clinical experience? This question can be illustrated by an ancient story. The Old Testament tells of the prophet Nehemiah who is leading the Israelites in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. There is intense opposition from local non-Israelites who try several ways of stopping the work. In the end they resort to spreading a false report that the Jews are plotting a revolt and setting up a new kingdom, intending by this to activate surrounding forces against the Jews. Nehemiah's reported response is:-
"They were trying to frighten us, thinking, 'Their hands will get too weak for the work, and it will not be completed'.  But I prayed, 'Now strengthen my hands'."
it is very unlikely that a modern educated westerner would express him/herself in this manner. The language shows that, for Nehemiah, being frightened and physically weak are two faces of the same thing. This is emphasised when he prays for his hands to be strengthened.  A modern Western religious would almost certainly go the psychological route and pray that his fear be reduced, or his courage be increased. Nehemiah somatises the issue (whilst clearly acknowledging the fear) but our modern Westerner would psychologise it (very often to such an extent that any real awareness of the relationship of the fear to the physical concomitant is lost).
Dilemmas of Love and Discipline in Therapy with Couples and Parents
Authors: Hart Bruce
Published: August 2022

Feminist contributions to systemic approaches to human behaviour have led to gender being defined in interactional terms. Gender is seen not as a fixed quality or trait but as one socially constructed between men and woman. This idea is discussed in relation to the gender debate in family therapy, attachment theory and feminist contributions to psychoanalytic thinking. Gender relationships are created as part of a person's internal working models of self and other. The ways that gender patterns are carried forward are examined, especially with respect to the contradictions between a person's gendered internal working models and their experience. These ideas will be examined through case examples.
Narcissistic Vulnerability in Manic Psychosis and How it Parallels with the 'Ritual Process'
Authors: Puthenpadath Laetitia
Published: August 2022

Anthropologist Arnold Van Gennep has studied the transformative potential of rights of passage. He identified a basic symbolic structure common in all forms of rituals. Self-psychology attempts to explain manic psychosis in terms of narcissistic vulnerability and shame. This paper reflects on the underlying similarities and contrasts between the ritual process and hypomanic episodes and draws out its implications for psychotherapy.
Stanislav Grof's System of Holotropic Therapy
Authors: Jackson Peter A
Published: August 2022

This paper explores the Holotropic Therapy System of Stanislav Grof. Although Grof's psychotherapeutic system is not well known, it is an important system and, in fact, acts as a theoretical framework within which many better known and more traditional systems of psychotherapy can be located. Grof has always fully recognised the psyche (soul) in psychotherapy, where the trans-egoic experiences tapped during therapeutic sessions facilitate the movement to full psychological health and, from there, to the full utilisation of human potential. An overview will be given, covering origins, underlying theory, the practice and the relationship between Grof's system and more traditional therapies. This will cover the cartography developed by Grof to embrace the range of therapeutic experiences undergone by 4000 clients. These experiences were located by Grof into one of three categories: psychodynamic, perinatal and transpersonal. Grof argues that healing comes about in the reliving of these experiences where they are integrated into adult waking consciousness.
Psychotherapy in the Age of Accountability
Authors: Morgan Marilyn
Published: August 2022

I picked up this book with reluctance. It felt like a 'should read',  rather than a book that would be enjoyable or constructive, or both. For some time I have been aware of the direction ACC, and other funding agencies, are moving with regard to funding counselling and psychotherapy. Less of it, more controlled by them, and accountability from us. This move takes place in a general social climate that is putting an increasing value on efficiency, outcomes, economic units, accountability and cost effectiveness. To put it simply, funders want to cut costs and be reassured that they are funding a service that can be seen to work in a measurable way.
Herbicide control of the invasive Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) does not alter soil microbial communities or activity
Authors: James Jonathan J. , Bach Elizabeth M. , Baker Kaleb , Barber Nicholas A. , Buck Ryan , Shahrtash Maryam , Brown Shawn P.
Published: August 2022

Invasive plants are a major problem for land managers and have widespread and lasting environmental impacts. The invasive shrub Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) is a pervasive and noxious plant in the Midwest region of the United States.

Despite this, many land managers may be uncomfortable with herbicide control of this and other invasive plants due to unknown impacts on ecosystem components including soils.

To examine if herbicide control of Amur honeysuckle impacts soil enzyme activity and soil communities, we treated Amur honeysuckle with Garlon® 4 (triclopyr) suspended in Basal Bark Oil, Basal Bark Oil alone and untreated controls, then assessed soil community, soil enzyme activity and arbuscular mycorrhizal density changes among treatments and across the subsequent growing season.

We found that basal bark herbicide treatments of Amur honeysuckle do not negatively impact soil enzyme activity, nor do they impact fungal, prokaryotic or oomycotan diversity or community structure. There was a slight but likely ecologically unimportant effect on community structure associated with basal bark oil applications, but not with herbicide applications. Arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization was negatively affected by herbicide use but this is likely due to reduction in host health and/or mortality.

Taken together, this suggests that herbicide control of Amur honeysuckle does not impact soils and land managers can treat these invasive plants without concern for negative soil outcomes.
One‐Phototransistor–One‐Memristor Array with High‐Linearity Light‐Tunable Weight for Optic Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Dang Bingjie , Liu Keqin , Wu Xulei , Yang Zhen , Xu Liying , Yang Yuchao , Huang Ru
Published: August 2022

The recent advances in optic neuromorphic devices have led to a subsequent rise in use for construction of energy‐efficient artificial‐vision systems. The widespread use can be attributed to their ability to capture, store, and process visual information from the environment. The primary limitations of existing optic neuromorphic devices include nonlinear weight updates, cross‐talk issues, and silicon process incompatibility. In this study, a highly linear, light‐tunable, cross‐talk‐free, and silicon‐compatible one‐phototransistor–one‐memristor (1PT1R) optic memristor is experimentally demonstrated for the implementation of an optic artificial neural network (OANN). For optic image recognition in the experiment, an OANN is constructed using a 16 × 3 1PT1R memristor array, and it is trained on an online platform. The model yields an accuracy of 99.3% after only ten training epochs. The 1PT1R memristor, which shows good performance, demonstrates its ability as an excellent hardware solution for highly efficient optic neuromorphic and edge computing.
Design Strategies for Hydroxyapatite‐Based Materials to Enhance Their Catalytic Performance and Applicability
Authors: Yook Hyunwoo , Hwang Jinwoo , Yeo Woonsuk , Bang Jungup , Kim Jaeyoung , Kim Tae Yong , Choi Jae‐Soon , Han Jeong Woo
Published: August 2022

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is a green catalyst that has a wide range of applications in catalysis due to its high flexibility and multifunctionality. These properties allow HAP to accommodate a large number of catalyst modifications that can selectively improve the catalytic performance in target reactions. To date, many studies have been conducted to elucidate the effect of HAP modification on the catalytic activities for various reactions. However, systematic design strategies for HAP catalysts are not established yet due to an incomplete understanding of underlying structure–activity relationships. In this review, tuning methods of HAP for improving the catalytic performance are discussed: 1) ionic composition change, 2) morphology control, 3) incorporation of other metal species, and 4) catalytic support engineering. Detailed mechanisms and effects of structural modulations on the catalytic performances for attaining the design insights of HAP catalysts are investigated. In addition, computational studies to understand catalytic reactions on HAP materials are also introduced. Finally, important areas for future research are highlighted.
Evaluation of the dietary supplementation of autochthonous bacteria on growth, survival and resistance to Aeromonas veronii challenge in Clarias batrachus and Heteropneustes fossilis
Authors: Paul Sagar , Farjana Kaniz , Mahamud A.G.M.Sofi Uddin , Mondal Debashis Kumar , Tabassum Tamanna , Khoiam Md. Umor , Ahmed Fee Faysal , Rahman Tanvir
Published: August 2022

The study focused on identifying autochthonous bacteria from the indigenous catfish intestine and evaluating their impacts on survival, growth and against Aeromonas veronii infection in Clarias batrachus and Heteropneustes fossilis under laboratory conditions. Candidate bacteria were isolated using Nutrient Agar (NA) and de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) agar in duplicate. An immersion technique was employed to determine the biosafety of these isolates in both catfish species at a dose of 107 CFU/mL. Three experimental diets: D1 (basal diet + putative Bacillus sp., 108–109 CFU/g), D2 (basal diet + 3% BioFav Aqua) and D3 (basal diet + putative Lactobacillus sp., 108–109 CFU/g) were prepared to conduct a 4‐week long feeding trial, whereas the control diet received no probiotic supplementation. The probiotic performance was analysed by comparing the growth performance and survival of C. batrachus and H. fossilis. Resistance against Aeromonas veronii infection was determined by a challenge test of catfish. Initially, 16 autochthonous isolates were collected, and among them, an isolate from C. batrachus intestine and another from the gut of H. fossilis were selected for further studies. A series of biochemical analyses identified that the putative bacteria were Bacillus sp. and Lactobacillus sp., respectively. The biosafety test showed no clinical signs of infection or mortality among experimental catfishes. All probiotic‐treated fish showed higher growth increments than control. Incorporation of Bacillus sp. and Lactobacillus sp. in the basal diet significantly (p < 0.05) improved growth and survival in both catfish, where Bacillus sp. showed the best effects in C. batrachus, and Lactobacillus sp. in H. fossilis. Intramuscular (IM) injection with A. veronii revealed that probiotic‐treated fish had better survival rates. The study demonstrated the potentiality of autochthonous bacteria to enhance growth, survival, feed efficiency and immunity and hence recommended as a better health management approach in catfish aquaculture.
Combining molybdenum carbide with ceria overlayers to boost Mo/CeO2 catalyzed ammonia synthesis
Authors: Fang Biyun , Zhang Chuanfeng , Qi Zeliang , Li Chunyan , Ni Jun , Wang Xiuyun , Lin Jianxin , Au Chak‐Tong , Lin Bingyu , Jiang Lilong
Published: August 2022

The design of an efficient non‐noble metal catalyst is of burgeoning interest for ammonia synthesis. Herein, we report a Mo2C/CeO2 catalyst that is superior in ammonia synthesis activity. In this catalyst, molybdenum carbide coexisted with the ceria overlayers which is from the ceria support as the strong metal–support interaction. There is a high proportion of low‐valent Mo species, as well as high concentration of Ce3+ and surface oxygen species. The presence of Mo2C and CeO2 overlayers not only leads to enhancement of hydrogen and nitrogen adsorption, but also facilitates the desorption and exchange of adsorbed species with the gaseous reagents. Compared with the Mo/CeO2 catalyst prepared without carbonization, the Mo2C/CeO2 catalyst is more than sevenfold higher in ammonia synthesis rate. This work not only presents an explicit example of designing Mo‐based catalyst that is highly efficient for ammonia synthesis by tuning the adsorption and desorption properties of the reactant gases, but opens a perspective for other elements in ammonia synthesis.