bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐ergot dopamine agonist therapy for Parkinson's disease in Japan: A claims database analysis
Authors: Wada‐Isoe Kenji , Tsuboi Yoshio , Kondo Hiroyuki , Kojima Yoshitsugu , Takeshima Tomomi , Iwasaki Kosuke
Published: January 2023

Background

Levodopa monotherapy and combination therapy with non‐ergot dopamine agonists (DAs; pramipexole, ropinirole, and rotigotine) are commonly used in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Changes in prescription preferences for each DA were reported previously; however, information regarding the selection of individual DAs is insufficient.

Aim

To investigate the reasons for selecting each DA.

Methods

This observational study used a Japanese claims database (April 2008–July 2017). The percentage of patients prescribed each DA was analyzed by year (2010–2017). The change in DA prescriptions and prevalence of comorbidities before DA initiation or before replacement with another DA were analyzed from 2013.

Results

The database included 50,408 patients with PD who received ≥1 levodopa and/or DA prescriptions. Pramipexole was the most popular DA; however, its prescription has decreased since 2012. Ropinirole prescriptions remained relatively unchanged, while that of rotigotine tended to increase since its launch in 2013 and recently surpassed that of ropinirole. The most frequent pattern of change (both in addition and replacement) was from pramipexole to rotigotine. Differences were observed in the prevalence of comorbidities among DAs.

Conclusion

Pramipexole was often prescribed at the beginning of the study period; the decrease in its prescription frequency might be mainly related to new DA options. The frequent change from pramipexole to rotigotine might be associated with the different DA characteristics, which may be a factor influencing the choice of a specific DA.
Is Patient‐Specific Instrumentation Accurate and Necessary for Open‐Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy? A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Pang Ran , Jiang Zhaohui , Xu Chunlei , Shi Wei , Zhang Xinglong , Wan Xin , Bahat Daniel , Li Hui , Senatov Fedor , Bulygina Inna , Wang Hu , Zhang Huafeng , Li Zhijun
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this meta‐analysis was to identify if patient‐specific instrumentation (PSI) could increase the accuracy of the correction in high tibial osteotomy (HTO) and to explore the assessment indices and the necessity of using a PSI in HTO. A systematic search was carried out using online databases. A total of 466 patients were included in 11 papers that matched the inclusion criteria. To evaluate the accuracy of PSI‐assisted HTO, the weight bearing line ratio (WBL%), hip‐knee‐ankle angle (HKA), mechanical medial proximal tibial angle (mMPTA), and posterior tibial slope angle (PTSA) were measured preoperatively and postoperatively and compared to the designed target values. Statistical analysis was performed after strict data extraction with Review Manager (version 5.4). Significant differences were detected in WBL% (MD = −36.41; 95% CI: −42.30 to −30.53; p < 0.00001), HKA (MD = −9.95; 95% CI: –11.65 to –8.25; p < 0.00001), and mMPTA (MD = –8.40; 95% CI:−10.27 to −6.53; p < 0.00001) but not in PTSA (MD = 0.34; 95% CI: −0.59 to 1.27; p = 0.47) between preoperative and postoperative measurements. There was no significant difference between the designed target values and the postoperative correction values of HKA (MD = 0.14; 95% CI: −0.19 to 0.47; p = 0.41) or mMPTA (MD = 0.11; 95% CI −0.34 to 0.55; p = 0.64). The data show that 3D‐based planning of PSI for HTO is both accurate and safe. WBL%, HKA, and mMPTA were the optimal evaluation indicators of coronal plane correction. Sagittal correction is best evaluated by the PTSA. The present study reports that PSI is accurate but not necessary in typical HTO.
Crosstalk and trade‐offs: Plant responses to climate change‐associated abiotic and biotic stresses
Authors: Leisner Courtney P. , Potnis Neha , Sanz‐Saez Alvaro
Published: December 2022

As sessile organisms, plants are constantly challenged by a dynamic growing environment. This includes fluctuations in temperature, water availability, light levels, and changes in atmospheric constituents such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and ozone (O3). In concert with changes in abiotic conditions, plants experience changes in biotic stress pressures, including plant pathogens and herbivores. Human‐induced increases in atmospheric CO2 levels have led to alterations in plant growth environments that impact their productivity and nutritional quality. Additionally, it is predicted that climate change will alter the prevalence and virulence of plant pathogens, further challenging plant growth. A knowledge gap exists in the complex interplay between plant responses to biotic and abiotic stress conditions. Closing this gap is crucial for developing climate resilient crops in the future. Here, we briefly review the physiological responses of plants to elevated CO2, temperature, tropospheric O3, and drought conditions, as well as the interaction of these abiotic stress factors with plant pathogen pressure. Additionally, we describe the crosstalk and trade‐offs involved in plant responses to both abiotic and biotic stress, and outline targets for future work to develop a more sustainable future food supply considering future climate change.
Long‐term results of liver transplantation for maple syrup urine disease: A single‐center experience in Turkey
Authors: Aras Arzu , Avanaz Ali , Inan Aydemir Nurel , Kayaalp Ece , Ulgen Tekerek Nazan , Kisaoglu Abdullah , Demiryilmaz Ismail , Soyucen Erdogan , Dursun Oguz , Yilmaz Aygen , Artan Reha , Aydinli Bulent
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder. Despite the advances in medical nutrition therapies, classical phenotype causes severe neurological disorders and sudden death. It is known that MSUD patients do not experience metabolic attacks despite their free diet after liver transplantation (LT). This study aims to reveal the long‐term results, development, mental, motor, intellectual and nutritional status of MSUD patients who underwent LT.

Methods

The data of 12 patients who underwent deceased donor (5 recipients) and living donor liver transplantation (7 recipients) were retrospectively analyzed. The age, genotype, psychometric and mental status, development, BCAA values, type of LT, donor‐recipient proximity, complications, and survival were assessed.

Results

There were 4 (33%) girls and 8 (67%) boys. The mean current age was 9.33 ± 4.58 years. The mean follow‐up time was 3 ± 2.5 years. The repeated measures of leucine and isoleucine values revealed that there were no significant differences from the pre‐LT to post‐LT 1‐year. The protein‐restricted nutrition was switched to a free diet when oral intake was opened after LT. None of the recipients experienced metabolic attacks after the living donor or deceased donor LT. The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rate of the patients is 83.3%. There was no significant difference in survival between living and deceased donor liver transplantation.

Conclusions

Liver transplantation is a treatment option for MSUD in proper conditions to save the patient life, increase the quality of life, and provide essential amino acids with free diet intake for growth and development.
Heat‐KilledLactobacillus rhamnosusATCC7469 ImprovedUVB‐InducedPhotoagingViaAntiwrinkleandAntimelanogenesisImpacts
Authors: Zhang Xiaofang , Xu Jing , Ma Mingzhu , Zhao Yadong , Song Yan , Zheng Bin , Wen Zhengshun , Gong Miao , Meng Lingting
Published: January 2023

Exposure of ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is the main factor from the environment to cause skin photoaging.Lactobacillus rhamnosusATCC 7469, is a probiotic strain with a good track record for enhancing human health. The present study conducted the impacts of heat‐killedL. rhamnosusATCC 7469 (RL) on photoagingin vitrousing mouse skin fibroblast (MSF) cells and human epidermal melanocytes (HEM) exposed to UVB. The results showed that (1) RL‐protected UVB‐induced cytotoxicity relating to absorb UVB and reduce DNA damage. (2) RL exerted the antiwrinkle impact involved in two aspects. Firstly, RL downregulated MMP‐1, 2, 3 expressions associating with MAPK signaling, resulting in the increased the protein expression of COL1A1, further booting type I collagen abundant thereby promoting the antiwrinkle impact in MSF cells. Secondly, RL reduced ROS content, further decreasing oxidative damage relating to Nrf2/Sirt3/SOD2 signaling, thereby promoting the antiwrinkle impact in MSF cells. (3) RL suppressed tyrosinase and TYRP‐2 activity and/or levels associating with PKA/CREB/MITF signaling, thereby promoting antimelanogenesis impact in HEM cells. In conclusion, our findings suggest that RL could reduce photoaging caused by UVBviaantiwrinkle and antimelanogenesis properties and may be a potential antiphotoaging beneficial component, which is applied in the cosmetic industry.
Nanoformulation of Lipophilic Osmium Photosensitizers in Liposomes and Micelles as a General Strategy for Improving Reproducibility and Reducing Quenching†
Authors: Papish Elizabeth T.
Published: January 2023

Nanoformulation of an osmium photosensitizer within liposomes and micelles is used to improve the water‐solubility of this highly lipophilic molecule. This highlight report describes a recent paper by Cameron, Obaid and McFarland on this topic and discusses the context for this report. Nanoformulation has been explored as a strategy before, but this represents the first usage of this strategy with highly potent metal‐based photosensitizers having phototherapeutic indices (PIs) in excess of 104. The nanoformulation strategy is effective due to reducing aggregation and self‐quenching of the photosensitizer molecules.
Ultraviolet Light, Unfolded Protein Response and Autophagy†
Authors: Bahamondes Lorca Verónica A. , Wu Shiyong
Published: January 2023

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) plays an important role in the regulation of protein synthesis. Alterations in the folding capacity of the ER induce stress, which activates three ER sensors that mediate the unfolded protein response (UPR). Components of the pathways regulated by these sensors have been shown to regulate autophagy. The last corresponds to a mechanism of self‐eating and recycling important for proper cell maintenance. Ultraviolet radiation (UV) is an external damaging stimulus that is known for inducing oxidative stress, and DNA, lipid and protein damage. Many controversies exist regarding the role of UV‐inducing ER stress or autophagy. However, a connection between the three of them has not been addressed. In this review, we will discuss the contradictory theories regarding the relationships between UV radiation with the induction of ER stress and autophagy, as well as hypothetic connections between UV, ER stress and autophagy.
Does revenue‐motivated policing alter who receives traffic citations? Evidence from driver race and income in Indiana
Authors: Mughan Siân , Singla Akheil
Published: December 2022

Revenue‐motivated policing is a common explanation for law enforcement behavior. This means in times of fiscal stress police alter their behavior to increase the financial returns to their actions. But does variation in the institutional features of local governments lead to variation in law enforcement behavior? Using a plausibly exogenous measure of revenue need, this research explores how fiscal institutions that determine a local government's ability to retain ticketing revenue interact with revenue need to affect the number of tickets issued and the type of driver ticketed. There are four major findings. First, revenue‐motivated policing only occurs when local governments retain the revenues from ticketing. Second, in the context of revenue retention and high revenue need, wealthier drivers are more likely to receive tickets. Third, these effects are particularly pronounced among White drivers. Finally, revenue‐motives extend beyond law enforcement by altering judicial decision‐making. When general purpose governments do not retain ticketing revenues from law enforcement action, there is little evidence of revenue‐motivated policing. Municipal courts play a vital role in revenue‐motivated policing by determining the distribution of ticketing revenues. When a municipality has an increased need for additional revenue, judges pursue unpaid ticketing debts more aggressively. Judicial behavior is thus affected by the same fiscal pressures that lead police to engage in revenue‐motivated policing. Increased revenue need leads police to target drivers who are not typically the subject of enforcement actions: wealthier, white drivers. We find no such effect for Black drivers. Policies altering revenue retention are a promising way to reduce revenue‐motivated policing. But reducing revenue‐motivated policing might not improve outcomes for Black drivers.
Elastodynamical resonances and cloaking of negative material structures beyond quasistatic approximation
Authors: Li Hongjie , Liu Hongyu , Zou Jun
Published: January 2023

Given the flexibility of choosing negative elastic parameters, we construct material structures that can induce two resonance phenomena, referred to as the elastodynamical resonances. They mimic the emerging plasmon/polariton resonance and anomalous localized resonance in optics for subwavelength particles. However, we study the peculiar resonance phenomena for linear elasticity beyond the subwavelength regime. It is shown that the resonance behaviors possess distinct characters, with some similar to the subwavelength resonances, but some sharply different due to the frequency effect. It is particularly noted that we construct a core–shell material structure that can induce anomalous localized resonance as well as cloaking phenomena beyond the quasistatic limit. The study is boiled down to analyzing the so‐called elastic Neumann–Poincaré (N‐P) operator in the frequency regime. We provide an in‐depth analysis of the spectral properties of the N‐P operator on a circular domain beyond the quasistatic approximation, and these results are of independent interest to the spectral theory of layer potential operators.
Fortune Teller and Midwife: A Reflective View on Pedagogical-Artistic Management in a Reality of Multiple Crises
Authors: Ofer Shlomit
Published: January 2023

The academic year of 2020-2021 was characterized by multiple crises, which affected the pedagogical-artistic management of the Department of Dance at the Kibbutzim College of Education, Technology and the Arts – one of the leading colleges in Israel for training teachers of dance. These crises occurred on three levels: the global, the national, and the local. On a global level, the Covid-19 outbreak brought about limitations imposed upon the public, from which emerged extreme social tensions, coupled with a political chasm that led to four election cycles, and finally a controversial military operation on the national level. On a local level, additional challenges included the department's shift to a new location in the city center, integration into a new "Faculty" organizational framework, a six-week lecturers' strike, and the replacement of two of the five administrative-staff members. These extreme conditions increased the number of secondary roles as an integral part of the Head of the Department's function described as fortune-teller, ombudswoman, clerk, real-estate agent, stunt artist, and midwife. The article focuses on presenting each of these roles and the transition from VUCA 1 (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity/Chaos, Ambiguity) to VUCA 2 (Vision, Understanding, Courage, Adaptability).
Evaluation of the Level of Variability of Niger Delta Community People’s Awareness and Knowledge of Chevron Regional Development Councils (RDCs) and Shell’s Cluster Development Boards (CDBs) Activities
Authors: Whiskey Monday Obukowho , Oji Majority
Published: January 2023

The study's objectives were to evaluate the level of variability in community people's awareness and knowledge of Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) Regional Development Councils (RDCs) and Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) Shell Cluster Development Boards (CDBs) and to determine whether the ascertained community people's awareness and knowledge have a significant impact on how well Multi-National Oil Corporations (MNOCs) development programmes are carried out in the host communities. Adopting the cross-sectional research design, the study surveyed 400 respondents from selected four states in the Niger Delta Oil Producing communities where RDCs and CDBs are operated. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means, and percentages were used to describe the socio-demographic information and the research questions. Inferential statistical tools like the One-Way Analysis of Variance and regression analysis had been used to take a look at the formulated hypotheses for the study. The findings indicate no relevant difference among community people in their state of awareness of the RDCs and CDBs but that the host community’s people poor involvement in the RDCs and CDBs resulted from inadequate requisite knowledge of the activities of MNOCs in their communities. The study recommended that every decision-making and taking process involve in project initiation, execution and implementation should involve the host communities in order to earn the people’s trust and respect.
Petrophysical Characterization and porosity-permeability log calculation by Dual-Energy CT scan: Morro do Chaves Formation, Sergipe-Alagoas Basin, Brazil
Authors: Mendes Marcelo , Favoreto Julia , Nunes Marcos , Rigueti Ariely , Valle Bruno , Borghi Leonardo , Corbett Patrick , Lima Maira , Martins Lorena , Arena Michele
Published: January 2023

Considered important analogues of pre-salt reservoirs in hydrocarbon-producing basins throughout eastern Brazilian shore, the coquinas of the Morro do Chaves Formation (Barremian-Aptian of the Sergipe-Alagoas Basin) were studied in this work from a petrophysical standpoint using advanced characterization methods for cores recovered from four wells (2-SMC-01-AL, 2-SMC-02-AL, 2-SMC-03-AL e 2-SMC-01-AL) drilled in the Atoll Quarry, which is located in city of São Miguel dos Campos, Alagoas State, Brazil. To understand the relationships between lithological and diagenetic heterogeneities that control the distribution of permeability-porosity properties of this rock type, the cores underwent Dual-Energy X-ray imaging, which determines bulk density and photoelectric factor data to define seven rock types and generate effective porosity curves for the studied wells. Permeabilities in wells were modeled based on the Flow Zone Index (FZI) concept, and each reservoir interval based on the Global Hydraulic Elements (GHEs) approach. Results were calibrated with laboratory measurements in plugs, and porosity was classified by petrographic analysis by Digital Image Analysis (DIA). All wells were correlated and four internal flooding surfaces identified, with a regressive surface (RS) dividing the Morro do Chaves Formation into an upper section with better reservoir characteristics and a lower one with worse ones.
How does authentic leadership influence the safety climate in nursing?
Authors: Mrayyan Majd T , AL-Atiyyat Nijmeh , Al-Rawashdeh Sami , Algunmeeyn Abdullah , Abunab Hamzeh Y , Othman Wafa'a W , Sayaheen Mohammad N
Published: January 2023

Background

Authentic leadership controls quality care and the safety of patients and healthcare professionals, especially nurses.

Aim

This study examined the influence of nurses’ authentic leadership on the safety climate.

Methods

In this predictive research, 314 Jordanian nurses from various hospitals were convenience sampled for cross-sectional and correlational design. This research included all hospital nurses with 1 year of experience, at least at the present hospital. SPSS (V.25) conducted descriptive statistics and multivariate analyses. As needed, sample variables’ means, SD and frequencies were supplied.

Results

The mean scores on the entire Authentic Leadership Questionnaire and its subscales were moderate. The mean score of the SCS was below 4 (out of 5), indicating negative safety climate perceptions. A significant positive moderate association was found between nurses’ authentic leadership and safety climate. Nurses’ authentic leadership predicted a safe climate. Internalised moral and balanced processing subscales were significant predictors of safety climate. Being woman and having a diploma inversely predicted the nurses’ authentic leadership; however, the model was insignificant.

Conclusion

Interventions are needed to enhance the perception of the safety climate in hospitals. Nurses’ authentic leadership increases their perceptions of a positive safety climate, and thus different strategies to build on nurses’ authentic leadership characteristics are warranted.

Implications for nursing management

The negative perceptions of the safety climate mandate that organisations create strategies to increase nurses’ awareness about the safety climate. Shared leadership, learning environments and information sharing would improve nurses’ perceptions of the safety climate. Future studies should examine other variables influencing safety climate with a more extensive and randomised sample. Safety climate and authentic leadership should be integrated into the nursing curricula and continuing education courses.
E- and T-model hybrid inflation
Authors: Pallis C.
Published: January 2023

We consider the impact of a kinetic pole of order one or two on the non-supersymmetric model of hybrid inflation. These poles arise due to logarithmic Kähler potentials which control the kinetic mixing of the inflaton field and parameterize hyperbolic manifolds with scalar curvature related to the coefficient $$(-N)<0$$

(
-
N
)
<
0

of the logarithm. Inflation is associated with the breaking of a local $$SU(2)\times U(1)$$

S
U
(
2
)
×
U
(
1
)

symmetry, which does not produce any cosmological defects after it, and remains largely immune from the minimal possible radiative corrections to the inflationary potential. For $$N=1$$

N
=
1

and equal values of the relevant coupling constants, $$\lambda $$
λ
and $$\kappa $$
κ
, the achievement of the observationally central value for the scalar spectral index, $$n_{\textrm{s}}$$

n
s

, requires the mass parameter, m, and the symmetry breaking scale, M, to be of the order of $$10^{12}~{\textrm{GeV}}$$

10
12

GeV

and $$10^{17}~{\textrm{GeV}}$$

10
17

GeV

respectively. Increasing N above unity the tensor-to-scalar ratio r increases above 0.002 and reaches its maximal allowed value for $$N\simeq 10{-}20$$

N
≃
10
-
20

.
Single-Machine Scheduling with a Deteriorating Maintenance Activity and DeJong’s Learning Effect
Authors: Gao Jie , Zou Juan , Zhang Yuzhong
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we study the single-machine scheduling problems with DeJong’s learning effect and deteriorating maintenance activity, where DeJong’s learning effect is a special position-based learning effect and the duration of the deteriorating maintenance activity is a linear increasing function of its starting time. Our goal is to determine the job sequence of all jobs and the position of the maintenance activity to minimize some performance measures. When the performance measures are the makespan and the total completion time, we show that both of them can be solved in polynomial time. When the performance measure is the total weighted completion time, we develop a pseudo-polynomial time dynamic programming algorithm under a special case. When the performance measure is the maximum lateness, we show that the earliest due date first (EDD) order is a bad algorithm for the general case, and develop a polynomial time algorithm under a special case.
Multiple exp-function method to solve the nonlinear space–time fractional partial differential symmetric regularized long wave (SRLW) equation and the (1+1)-dimensional Benjamin–Ono equation
Authors: Aderyani Safoura Rezaei , Saadati Reza , Vahidi Javad
Published: December 2022

In this study, we apply relatively analytical techniques, the multiple [Formula: see text]-function method, [Formula: see text]-function method and [Formula: see text]-expansion method to get approximate and analytic solutions of some nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs), i.e., the nonlinear space–time fractional partial differential symmetric regularized long wave equation, an impressive model to characterize ion-acoustic and space change waves, the nonlinear [Formula: see text]-dimensional Fokas PDE, a meaningful multi-dimensional extension of the Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (KP) and Davey–Stewartson (DS) equations, [Formula: see text]-dimensional Bateman–Burgers equation, a simplification of a more complex and sophisticated model, and the [Formula: see text]-dimensional Benjamin–Ono equation, a model for the propagation of unidirectional internal waves in stratified fluids. Finally, we propose the numerical results in tables and discuss advantages and disadvantages of the mentioned methods.
A Comparative Analysis of the Biden Administration’s Indo-Pacific Strategy vs. the Trump Administration’s
Authors: HAENLE Paul
Published: December 2022

In recent years the United States has placed the Indo-Pacific at the centre of its foreign policy and national security strategy. While the Trump administration introduced the United States’ first strategy for the Indo-Pacific, the administration fell short of implementing an effective policy that catered to the regional realities on the ground. The Biden administration has improved upon its predecessor’s shortcomings in the diplomatic domain but has yet to implement a comprehensive economic strategy for the region. This article compares the distinctive diplomatic, economic and security characteristics of the Trump and the Biden administrations’ Indo-Pacific strategies and argues that the latter administration crafted a more effective, albeit incomplete, strategy for advancing US interests.
The South Pacific: A New Arena for Strategic Competition among the Major Powers
Authors: WILKINS Thomas
Published: December 2022

The South Pacific region is in the international spotlight once more as resident and extra-regional powers jockey for influence and allegiance as part of a broader strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific. This article reveals the geostrategic, geopolitical and geoeconomic issues at stake and provides a capsule analysis of the approach taken by all the key competitors. It also reveals the responses of the Pacific Island countries themselves to the strategic rivalry unfolding on their doorstep.
Not All Robots are Evaluated Equally: The Impact of Morphological Features on Robots’ Assessment through Capability Attributions
Authors: Kunold Laura , Bock Nikolai , Rosenthal-von der Pütten Astrid
Published: January 2023

Favorable assessments of social robots are addressed in several research and development attempts because positive attitudes and intentions towards technology are regarded as a necessary prerequisite for usage. To predict a favorable evaluation, it is inevitable to understand the appraisal process and determine crucial variables that affect the evaluative and behavioral consequences of HRI. Robotic morphology has been identified as one of these variables. In the present work, we expand previous work by demonstrating that capability attributions associated with robots’ morphological features explain variations in evaluations. Based on two large picture-based online studies (Study 1,
n
= 673; Study 2,
n
= 586) we show that robots with similar morphological features (e.g., robots with arms and grippers) can be clustered along their assigned capabilities, and that these capabilities (e.g., to manipulate objects) explain evaluations of the robots in terms of acceptance and social attributes (i.e., warmth, competence, and discomfort). We discuss whether these initial assessments are relevant to live interactions and how our results can inform robot design.
Small Bowel Obstruction due to Migrated Intragastric Balloon: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tan Min Yien , Fok Kar Yin , Nguyen Huong , Edirimanne Senarath , Devadas Michael
Published: December 2022

Introduction. With the rising rate of obesity world-wide, there are increasing weight loss options including operative and non-operative techniques. Endoscopic intragastric balloons (IGB) have gained popularity since its inception three decades ago and is viewed as a less invasive alternative to bariatric surgery. However, complications, though rare and probably under-reported, can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Case Presentation. We present the case of a 44-year-old woman who presented with a two-day history of upper abdominal pain, nausea, and obstipation, on the background of a Spatz3™ Balloon (Spatz FGIA, Great Neck, NY, USA) endoscopically placed seven months prior. Computed tomography scan confirmed small bowel obstruction due to a migrated IGB, requiring laparotomy and enterotomy for retrieval. Conclusion. With the development of new types of IGB and increasing usage, it is important to monitor for issues and complications.
Dietary Thymol Improved Growth, Body Composition, Digestive Enzyme Activities, Hematology, Immunity, Antioxidant Defense, and Resistance to Streptococcus iniae in the Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Hafsan Hafsan , Saleh Marwan Mahmood , Zabibah Rahman S. , Obaid Rasha Fadhel , Jabbar Hijran Sanaan , Mustafa Yasser Fakri , Sultan Mohammed Q. , Gabr Gamal A. , Ramírez-Coronel Andrés Alexis , Khodadadi Mohammad , Dadras Mahnaz
Published: December 2022

In this study, thymol (TYM) at dietary levels of 0, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 g/kg diet was used to evaluate its effects on growth, digestive performance, immunity, and resistances to the infection induced by Streptococcus iniae in the rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. A number of 450 fish (

35.8
±
4.4
 
g

;

Mean
±
SD

) were distributed to 15 tanks (30 fish/tank) in three replicates and fed TYM for 60 days. After feeding period, Fish fed 1.5-2.5 g TYM showed better growth, higher digestive enzyme activity, and body protein content compared to other diets (

P
<
0.05

). Regression analysis indicated a polynomial relationship between growth parameters and dietary TYM levels. Based upon the varied growth parameters, the optimum dietary TYM level was 1.89% for FCR. TYM at dietary levels of 1.5-2.5 g significantly enhanced liver antioxidant enzyme activity [superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT)], immune components in blood [alternative complement activity (C3), total immunoglobulin (Ig), lysozyme activity, bactericidal activity, and total protein], and in mucus [alkaline phosphatase (ALP), protease activity, lysozyme activity, bactericidal activity, and total protein] compared to other diets (

P
<
0.05

). TYM at dietary levels of 2-2.5 g significantly decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared to other experimental groups (

P
<
0.05

). In addition, use of TYM at dietary levels of 1.5-2.5 g upregulated the expression of the immune-related genes (C3, Lyz, and Ig) (

P
<
0.05

). In contrast, the expression of inflammatory genes, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and Interleukin-8 (IL-8) significantly were downregulated in response to 2-2.5 g TYM (

P
<
0.05

). The hematology of the fish also altered in response to dietary TYM, where the values of corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC), hematocrit (Hct), and white blood cell (WBC) significantly increased in fish fed 2-2.5 g TYM compared to other diets (

P
<
0.05

). In addition, MCV significantly decreased in response to 2-2.5 g TYM (

P
<
0.05

). After challenge with Streptococcus iniae, the survival rate was significantly higher in fish fed 2-2.5 g TYM compared to other diets (

P
<
0.05

). The results of the present study concluded that TYM in the diet of rainbow trout can improve the fish growth and immunity and increase the resistance of the fish to Streptococcus iniae infection. The results of this study recommend an optimized dietary level of 2-2.5 g TYM for the fish.
The Strange Case: The Unsymmetric Cisplatin‐Based Pt(IV) Prodrug [Pt(CH3COO)Cl2(NH3)2(OH)] Exhibits Higher Cytotoxic Activity with respect to Its Symmetric Congeners due to Carrier‐Mediated Cellular Uptake
Authors: Gabano Elisabetta , Zanellato Ilaria , Pinton Giulia , Moro Laura , Ravera Mauro , Osella Domenico
Published: December 2022

The biological behavior of the axially unsymmetric antitumor prodrug (OC‐6‐44)‐acetatodiamminedichloridohydroxidoplatinum(IV), 2, was deeply investigated and compared with that of analogous symmetric Pt(IV) complexes, namely, dihydroxido 1 and diacetato 3, which have a similar structure. The complexes were tested on a panel of human tumor cell lines. Complex 2 showed an anomalous higher cytotoxicity (similar to that of cisplatin) with respect to their analogues 1 and 3. Their reduction potentials, reduction kinetics, lipophilicity, and membrane affinity are compared. Cellular uptake and DNA platination of Pt(IV) complexes were deeply investigated in the sensitive A2780 human ovarian cancer cell line and in the corresponding resistant A2780cisR subline. The unexpected activity of 2 appears to be related to its peculiar cellular accumulation and not to a different rate of reduction or a different efficacy in DNA platination and/or efficiency in apoptosis induction. Although the exact mechanism of cell uptake is not fully deciphered, a series of naïve experiments indicates an energy‐dependent, carrier‐mediated transport: the organic cation transporters (OCTs) are the likely proteins involved.
Physiochemical Analysis of Drinking Water and Treatment with a Homemade Filter: A Case Study of Illu Abba Bor Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Gudeta Badhane , Ratnam M. Venkata , Mohan Raja
Published: December 2022

The drinking water quality was evaluated in order to provide a continuous supply of clean and safe drinking water for the preservation of public health. The study area consists of three villages: Tulube, Seddo, and Serdo, all of which are located near Mettu town, which is about 550 kilometers south-west of Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa. The physical and chemical parameters of the collected drinking water samples were assessed, including pH, turbidity, conductivity, total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), and the presence of heavy metals. The samples were examined in the laboratory, and the findings were compared to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Almost all of the physiochemical indicators were safe and within the permissible limit for drinking water quality. However, lead ion concentrations were found to be above the WHO standards. An adsorbent produced from banana pseudostems was used to remove lead ions from drinking water. The equilibrium parameters were determined using the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The drinking water was treated for 4 h in a homemade adsorption column composed of filter medium (sand, charcoal, and powder of treated banana pseudostem). The data revealed that lead ions removal was nearly 70%, but still above the WHO standards.
Drug Disposal and Ecopharmacovigilance Practices in the Krowor Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Esseku Yvonne Yirenkyiwaa , Mante Priscilla Kolibea , Dodoo Alex Nii Oto , Woode Eric
Published: December 2022

Introduction. The use of medicines is a ubiquitous practice for the management of healthcare conditions. In the delivery of healthcare, medicines may remain unused and may expire within the various stakeholders in the pharmaceutical value chain. If these unused and expired medicines are not disposed of properly, they may result in the concentration of pharmaceuticals in environmental media contaminating food sources for humans and animals. Implementation of ecopharmacovigilance strategies will reduce the quantities of pharmaceuticals in the environmental media, reduce the potential for inadvertent consumption by humans and animals, and reduce potential pharmacological effects on the environment, humans, and animals. The drug disposal flow diagram (DDFD) provides an effective way of assessing the most cost-effective strategies to reduce environmental contamination. Method. A combined method of desk study and questionnaires, both structured and unstructured was used. The desk study reviewed the institutional arrangements for the regulation of disposal of pharmaceutical waste in Krowor. The questionnaires were used to gather information from community members, community pharmacies, and pharmaceutical manufacturers in Krowor. Results. The drug disposal flow diagram shows that up to 96% of pharmaceuticals are handled and disposed of in ways that are harmful to the environment with only 4% being handled in ways that are environmentally friendly. Forty-nine percent (49%) of generated pharmaceutical waste ends up in the local and surrounding areas, 21% contaminates the drainage system and 25% is discharged into receiving waters. Discussion. The DDFD for Krowor shows that engagement with community members and institutional healthcare service providers and strategies that result in separation of pharmaceutical waste from general household waste will reduce the quantities of pharmaceuticals that end up in the environmental media. Conclusion. The DDFD will support the effective implementation of ecopharmacovigilance (EPV) strategies.
Carotenoid Accumulation in Common and Orange-Muscle Mutant of Abalone, Haliotis gigantea, Fed with Different Macroalgae
Authors: Wei Xiaohui , Yang Bingye , Zeng Wencui , Tang Bin , Huang Miaoqin , Luo Xuan , You Weiwei , Ke Caihuan
Published: December 2022

Aquatic animals cannot synthesize carotenoids, thus they must come from diet or from symbionts. Previous studies have found that orange-muscle abalones are rich in carotenoids, but the effects of different diets on the accumulation of carotenoids are unknown. In this study, the effects of macroalgae (Gracilaria lemaneiformis), fresh and dried kelp (Laminaria japonica) on the contents of the predominant carotenoids, including zeaxanthin, β-carotene, and fucoxanthin, between the common and orange-muscle mutant of Haliotis gigantea were compared through a one-year culture experiment. Our study confirmed that carotenoids in abalones mainly come from diets, and the carotenoid types in the muscles were similar to their diets. We also found that feeding on G.lemaneiformis played an important role in maintaining a stable carotenoid content over time, especially zeaxanthin in H.gigantea. Our data also provided that abalones had a good growth performance under the feeding conditions of G.lemaneiformis. Finally, compared with common abalones, orange-muscle abalones had a notably enhanced ability to accumulate carotenoids through their diet, especially zeaxanthin (

P
<
0.01

). However, the growth performance of orange-muscle abalones was lower than those of common abalones fed the same diets. These results inferred that the content of carotenoid in abalone may be controlled by genetic factors, and diet had a significant influence on the accumulation of carotenoid in abalone to some extent.
A Review of the Antimicrobial Potential of Musca domestica as a Natural Approach with Promising Prospects to Countermeasure Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Niode Nurdjannah Jane , Mahono Charles Kurnia , Lolong Felicia Maria , Matheos Merina Pingkan , Kepel Billy Johnson , Tallei Trina Ekawati
Published: December 2022

Drug-resistant pathogens have become a serious public health concern worldwide considering the rapid emergence and distribution of new strains, which outpace the development of antimicrobial drugs. It is a complex and serious clinical problem that can cause an epidemic of a disease; consequently, numerous research studies are conducted to determine the solution to these problems, including the development of new antibiotics derived from natural sources such as insects. The housefly (Musca domestica L.), an insect known as a cosmopolitan pest, possesses several qualities that can ameliorate diseases; consequently, they can be used as a bioactive component in the development of medicines. These qualities include its potential as a source of antibacterial agents. The external surface components, wings, internal organs, and whole body extract of M. domestica can all contribute antimicrobial potential due to bioactive compounds they produce. This article discusses several antimicrobial properties of M. domestica that could be utilized for healthcare benefits.
РОЗРОБКА СКЛАДУ ГРАНУЛ ДЛЯ ОРАЛЬНОЇ СУСПЕНЗІЇ НА ОСНОВІ НІМЕСУЛІДУ
Authors: Тарапон Катерина
Published: January 2023

Мета роботи. Розробка складу гранул для оральної суспензії на основі німесуліду, вивчення впливу розміру часток активного фармацевтичного інгредієнту та допоміжних речовин на критичні показники якості препарату.

Матеріали і методи. В процесі досліджень використовували діючу речовину німесулід, а також допоміжні речовини з груп наповнювачів, зв’язуючих речовин, стабілізаторів рН, коригентів смаку, ароматизаторів та солюбілізаторів. Приготування гранул здійснювали методом вологої грануляції. Визначення фармако-технологічних показників проводили за допомогою сучасного обладнання. Для аналізу характеристик порошкових мас, готової суспензії використовували органолептичні методи. Кількісний вміст діючої речовини визначали методом ВЕРХ.

Результати й обговорення. За результатами експериментальних досліджень встановлено, що мікронізована субстанція німесуліду (D90 < 30 мкм) забезпечує відповідність приготованої суспензії німесуліду за показником «Опис», а також відповідність профілю розчинення референтному препарату. Найкращі органолептичні характеристики суспензії отримано при використанні в якості наповнювача цукру подрібненого в кількості від 75,50 % до 90,00 %. Для забезпечення значення рН, аналогічного референтному препарату, необхідно до складу розроблюваного лікарського засобу вводити кислоту лимонну безводну в кількості від 0,95 % до 1,0 %. Використання у складі солюбілізатору кетомакроголу 1000 у кількості 1 % забезпечує профіль розчинення препарату та кількісний вміст відповідно встановленим вимогам.

Висновки. При розробці складу препарату з діючою речовиною німесулід у формі гранул для оральної суспензії встановлено цільовий профіль препарату, визначено критичні показники якості, проведено оцінку ризиків варіабельності формуляції. В ході роботи підібрано оптимальний розмір часток діючої речовини, вивчено вплив допоміжних речовин на фамако-технологічні та фізико-хімічні показники та запропоновано науково-обґрунтований склад препарату, який відповідає цільовому профілю.
Зміни магістрального артеріального та венозного кровотоку і шкірної мікроциркуляції від величини медичної еластичної компресії при лікуванні венозної трофічної виразки
Authors: Русин В. І. , Павук Ф. М. , Федусяк В. Я.
Published: January 2023

Мета роботи: визначити вплив еластичної компресії на венозну та артеріальну швидкість магістрального кровотоку нижньої кінцівки та шкірну мікроциркуляцію тильної частини стопи при лікуванні венозних трофічних виразок.

Матеріали і методи. У дослідженні взяли участь 15 пацієнтів із варикозною хворобою в стадії декомпенсації. Серед них було 9 (60 %) жінок та 6 (40 %) чоловіків. Середній вік пацієнтів становив (56±5,7) року. У всіх субʼєктів дослідження вимірювали індекс кісточково-плечового тиску, глибокостегново-підколінний індекс, індекс регіонарної перфузії, tcpO2, tcpCO2, швидкість артеріального кровотоку в стегновій артерії (AFV) та швидкість венозного кровотоку (VFV) дистальніше сафенофеморального співустя. Після виконаних замірів наступні заміри проводили після застосування еластичного медичного трикотажу різного класу компресії.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. При I класі компресії (15–21 мм рт. ст.) виявлено значні зміни в показниках на 12 % (p<0,01). Швидкість артеріального кровотоку зменшилась у 2 рази порівняно із вхідними даними при максимальному тиску четвертого класу компресії (p=0,0001). TcpO2 мав тенденцію до зниження і при четвертому класі компресії (>46 мм рт. ст.) і становило (61,2±1,3) мм рт. ст. (p=0,0001). Значення транскутанного тиску кисню знижувалось при зростанні тиску еластичної компресії. З іншого боку, значення tcpCO2 значно зросли вже при І класі компресії (p=0,0001) і далі збільшувалися до кінця дослідження. Аналізуючи зміни транскутанного тиску вуглекислого газу встановлено, що його значення зросли на 40 % порівняно із вхідними даними (p=0,0001). Значення індексу регіонарної перфузії знижуються починаючи із рівня тиску в 10 мм рт. ст., як і показник tcpO2, тому застосування ІРП може слугувати критерієм вибору для діагностики ступеня ішемії.

Венозна швидкість кровотоку в стегновій вені знижується на 22 % при компресії у 15 мм рт. ст., а при максимальному тиску еластичної компресії зниження венозної швидкості порівняно із початковою від норми становило 78 % (p=0,0001). TcpCO2 значно зростає при компресії 15 мм рт. ст. (p=0,0001), також паралельно із зменшенням індексу регіонарної перфузії, яке починається при зовнішній компресії 15 мм рт. ст. (p<0,05), що є свідченням погіршення перфузії шкіри тилу стопи у хворих з варикозною хворобою в стадії декомпенсації.
Вплив колатерального кровообігу на результати інвазивного лікування у хворих із гострим коронарним синдромом
Authors: Маслій Б. Я.
Published: January 2023

Мета роботи: дослідити клінічний портрет хворих із розвинутими колатералям и на тлі ГКС та їх вплив на результати інвазивного лікування.

Матеріали і методи. У дослідження включено 135 пацієнтів, з них 105 чоловіків (77,78 %) та 30 жінок (22,22 %). Середній вік обстежених склав (61,81±1,13) року, у тому числі чоловіків – (60,15±0,91) року, жінок – (66,43±1,27) року, p<0,0009. У 113 (83,70 %) пацієнтів діагностовано ГКС з елевацією сегмента ST (STEMI), у 22 (16,30 %) – ГКС без елевації сегмента ST (NSTEMI). У хворих оцінювали колатеральний кровообіг за методикою Rentrop під час виконання коронароаніографії з наступною ангіопластикою та стентуванням інфаркт-залежної артерії. Залежно від розвитку КК усі пацієнти були поділені на дві групи: 1-ша – з добре розвинутими колатералями (2–3 бали за Rentrop), 2-га – із слаборозвинутим КК (0–1 бали за Rentrop). У цих групах порівнювали особливості клінічного перебігу ГКС, вплив коморбідності, розрахункову масу некрозу за ЕКГ, показники ехокардіоскопії, коронароангіографічні паралелі між ураженням різних відділів вінцевого русла та розвитком КК, безпосередні та віддалені наслідки інвазивного лікування. Ризики несприятливого прогнозу оцінювали за шкалою GRACE-2.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. За даними коронароангіографії, розвинутий КК (Rentrop 2–3) встановлено у 43 пацієнтів, а у 92 – недостатній КК або відсутність колатералів. Встановлено пряму залежність між ступенем обструкції коронарної артерії та наявністю добре розвинутих колатералей (r=0,316, p<0,001). За даними парціального кореляційного аналізу (з вилученням віку) простежувався певний зв’язок між наявністю КК та шестимісячним ризиком несприятливого прогнозу за шкалою GRACE-2 (r=0,205, p=0,018). Оцінка загальної смертності за весь період спостереження виявила дещо вищу смертність у групі пацієнтів, які мали розвинуті колатералі, порівняно з пацієнтами, у яких останніх не виявлено, відповідно, 25,58 % проти 17,39 %, однак статистично різниця виявилась недостовірною. При аналізі смертності упродовж 6 місяців після ІМ фактична смертність за наявності розвинутих колатералей була 9,3 %, а розрахункова за шкалою GRACE становила 15,24 %. Водночас ті ж показники у групі пацієнтів, у яких при коронароангіографії не виявлено колатералей, становили, відповідно, 3,26 % та 3,00 %, тобто у останніх фактична і розрахункова смертність виявилась ідентичною.

Колатералі краще розвинені у пацієнтів із тяжким стенозом коронарної артерії. У виборі тактики лікування гострого коронарного синдрому слід враховувати особливості колатерального кровообігу. На відносно короткому проміжку часу наявність колатерального кровотоку має позитивний вплив при гострому коронарному синдромі.