bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tax Carbon Policy
Authors: Jaya I. Made Laut Mertha , Esquivias Padilla Miguel Angel
Published: January 2024

The transition to a green economy has been widely discussed around the world as a response to the worsening climate change crisis. Carbon tax is predicted to be a significant first step. The authors conducted in-depth interviews related to the carbon tax policy as a momentum to accelerate the sustainability of Indonesia's economic growth that is in accordance with the concept of green economy or not. Therefore, the new hypothesis that emerges later can show the true purpose and role of the carbon tax policy for Indonesia's future. It is concluded that, similar to other countries in the world, Indonesia has the potential to implement a carbon tax policy in order to reduce and control carbon emissions. The sectors that can be directly burdened by carbon tax are power generation, transportation, building industry, pulp and paper industry, cement, and petrochemicals. Although not perfect, this carbon tax should be implemented immediately.
Greenpreneurship Pioneering Solutions for Climate Change
Authors: Jain Pooja , Aruna P. , Purswani Geetanjali
Published: January 2024

In an era marked by pressing global climate challenges, the role of green entrepreneurship, or “greenpreneurship,” has gained paramount significance. The present chapter begins by elucidating the inherent connection between greenpreneurship and climate change, followed the contributions of the greenpreneurs appreciating their efforts to make a difference to the society. The chapter mentions certain skills and traits required by greenpreneurs to run their business. It states the challenges that the greenpreneurs face. The chapter then takes a dive into the realm of greenpreneurship from an Indian perspective. India, with its unique blend of environmental challenges and a burgeoning entrepreneurial ecosystem, presents an intriguing case study. The chapter illustrates how Indian greenpreneurs are contributing to a cleaner, greener future. It states the policies which the government has made to support greenpreneurs in the country. Finally, recommendations are given for existing greenpreneurs, budding entrepreneurs, the public, and the government to collectively drive green solutions.
The optimization of continuous discount function through the continuous yield curve trajectories involving the parsimonious Nelson-siegel model
Authors: Michael Ogungbenle Gbenga , Solomon Adeyele Joshua , Silas Ihedioha Abahia
Published: January 2024

Yield curves which explain the variation in interest rates over varying maturities, provide important indicators with potentially useful implications on the investment choices, risk management strategies of financial institutions and fiscal policies of regulators. Accurately estimating the parsimonious parameters of the yield curve and modelling the discount function is highly important. The continuous forward rate function is a transformed discount function as a numerical device employed to obtain the price of a collection of bonds since the present value of a set of cash flows is computed by finding the product of these cash flows and the associated discount function. Nigeria’s bond market representing a major segment of the capital market and an important means of monetary transmission framework has suffered continuous liquidity problems. The lack of functional capital market instruments in form of government bonds has accounted for the poor performance of bond market. Consequently, this study intends to (i) Compute the discount function and (ii) Show its applications on life insurance offerings. This study analysed the term structure of interest rates using the Nigerian Eurobond which was collected for the years 2018 and 2019 from which the discount functions were constructed by adopting the continuous Nelson Siegel continuous function. A t-test conducted on the adjusted R2 on the model using Ordinary Least Square method after fixing the shape parameters was applied after computing the exponentially decaying factor. Computational evidence from the results reveals that the adjusted 𝑅square for 2018 and 2019 are 0.976and respectively0.986. This indicates that 97.6%of 2018 and 98.6% of the observed data can be explained by the Nelson-Siegel model of data using the estimated parameters for the two years and hence the result suggests a high level of accuracy confirming the degree to which the Nelson-Siegel yield curve parameters has estimated the illiquid Nigerian financial market.
Oscillometry-Defined Small Airway Dysfunction in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Rath Amit K. , Sahu Dibakar , De Sajal
Published: January 2024

Background: The prevalence of small airway dysfunction (SAD) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) across different ethnicities is poorly understood. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of SAD in stable COPD patients.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 196 consecutive stable COPD patients. We measured pre- and post-bronchodilator (BD) lung function and respiratory impedance. The severity of COPD and lung function abnormalities was graded in accordance with the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines. SAD was defined as either difference in whole-breath resistance at 5 and 19 Hz > upper limit of normal or respiratory system reactance at 5 Hz < lower limit of normal.Results: The cohort consisted of 95.9% men, with an average age of 66.3 years. The mean forced expiratory volume 1 second (FEV1) % predicted was 56.4%. The median COPD assessment test (CAT) scores were 14. The prevalence of post-BD SAD across the GOLD grades 1 to 4 was 14.3%, 51.1%, 91%, and 100%, respectively. The post-BD SAD and expiratory flow limitation at tidal breath (EFLT) were present in 62.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 56.1 to 69.9) and 28.1% (95% CI, 21.9 to 34.2), respectively. COPD patients with SAD had higher CAT scores (15.5 vs. 12.8, p<0.01); poor lung function (FEV1% predicted 46.6% vs. 72.8%, p<0.01); lower diffusion capacity for CO (4.8 mmol/min/kPa vs. 5.6 mmol/min/kPa, p<0.01); hyperinflation (ratio of residual volume to total lung capacity % predicted: 159.7% vs. 129%, p<0.01), and shorter 6-minute walk distance (367.5 m vs. 390 m, p=0.02).Conclusion: SAD is present across all severities of COPD. The prevalence of SAD increases with disease severity. SAD is associated with poor lung function and higher symptom burden. Severe SAD is indicated by the presence of EFLT.
Discovery of TIM-3: Beyond a Th1 Regulator
Authors: Anderson Ana C
Published: January 2024

This Pillars of Immunology article is a commentary on “Th1-specific cell surface protein Tim-3 regulates macrophage activation and severity of an autoimmune disease,” a pivotal article written by L. Monney, C. A. Sabatos, J. L. Gaglia, A. Ryu, H. Waldner, T. Chernova, S. Manning, E. A. Greenfield, A. J. Coyle, R. A. Sobel, G. J. Freeman, and V. K. Kuchroo, and published in Nature, in 2002. https://www.nature.com/articles/415536a.
Development of measles‑rubella surveillance health information system in the working area of health center tanjung selor, bulungan district
Authors: Pertiwi Andi C. , Leida Ida , Amiruddin Riwdan , Wahiduddin Wahiduddin , Suriah Suriah , Syamsuar Syamsuar
Published: January 2024

The Tanjung Selor Health Center reported 2 labora‑ tory‑confirmed negative measles suspected cases that occurred in the Tanjung Selor Hilir urban village area, thus meeting the Discarded Rate target of 80% for North Kalimantan Province. This study aims to design and determine the effectiveness of measles‑rubella surveillance applications based on increasing measles suspect case finding. This research used pre‑exper‑ imental study design and system development with the prototype method. This study was conducted in the working area of the Tanjung Selor Health Center. Samples of research were teachers and children of kindergarten/early childhood, elementary/boarding schools, and private pediatrician health service facilities in the Tanjung Selor Hilir village. The name of the application is SICARE (Sistem Campak Rubella/ Measles‑Rubella Surveillance) and expected to facilitate moni‑ toring reporting cases of measles rubella. Data were analyzed by univariate and bivariate t‑tests on Stata and then interpreted in the form of tables and narratives. The results showed the frequency of reporting (P=0.010), the difference in case of reporting before and after treatment (P=0.160), the effective‑ ness of surveillance attributes in schools and private facilities after treatment (P=0.00), and the effectiveness of reporting on Health Center officers (P=0.22). Significant results from the development of the SICARE application are the frequency of reporting and the effectiveness of surveillance attributes in schools and private facilities. It is recommended for health center staff to further develop the application that has been built through optimal planning to improve early detection and rapid response in an active measles‑rubella surveillance system.
Transplantation of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia living donor liver resulting in early myocardial infarction: a possible dangerous link
Authors: Kholaif Naji , Batha Lin , Elmahi Isra , Alnaser Sulaiman , Alzaher Sultan , Almallohi Norah , Alhussein Mosaad , Alhalees Dana , Alshehri Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is a lifesaving procedure that is often curative for several liver diseases. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a metabolic disease that results from an autosomal dominant mutation in the low-density lipoprotein receptor; yet, young patients with FH can live years without detection. Herein, we report a case of a patient who developed early myocardial infarction (MI) after having a transplant from a donor with undetected heterozygous FH. This was a 67-year-old female with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis-related liver cirrhosis, free from coronary artery disease, who underwent LDLT from her daughter, a 45-year-old female with no past medical history. One year post-transplant, she presented with an acute MI with a large atherosclerotic burden. Genetic analysis confirmed heterozygous FH in the donor but not in the recipient. This case emphasizes the importance of incorporating a thorough clinical history and lipid profile into pre-transplant testing for both the recipient and donor, as well as aggressive lipid-lowering therapy post-transplantation to avoid cardiovascular complications.
Regional lake-sediment geochemical data from northwestern Manitoba (NTS 064-F): re-analysis data and QA/QC evaluation
Authors: Bourdeau J E
Published: January 2024

This report presents the geochemical data, quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) results of the re-analysis of lake sediment samples collected from north-western Manitoba (NTS 064-F). The original survey was conducted in 1984 and the re-analysis in 2021.
Original survey results are presented in OF 1104. A total of 1,024 lake sediment samples were re-analyzed, covering an area of 13,400 km2, averaging a density of 1 sample per 13 km2. Samples were analyzed for 65 elements via modified aqua-regia - ICP-MS and 35 elements via INA. To ensure high
quality data, the geochemical data was evaluated for contamination, accuracy, precision and fitness-for-purpose (ANOVA). QA/QC results have identified a number of elements to be monitored carefully for future analyses. Overall, the dataset is of good quality.
Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound for essential tremor: a prospective, single center, single-arm study
Authors: Zong Rui , Li Xuemei , Yin Chunyu , He Jianfeng , Zhang Dekang , Bian Xiangbing , Huang Lichao , Zhou Jiayou , Ling Zhipei , Ma Lin , Lou Xin , Pan Longsheng , Yu Xinguang
Published: January 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202409000-00041/figure1/v/2024-01-30T062302Z/r/image-tiff

The safety and effectiveness of magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy has been broadly established and validated for the treatment of essential tremor. In 2018, the first magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound system in Chinese mainland was installed at the First Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital. This prospective, single center, open-label, single-arm study was part of a worldwide prospective multicenter clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03253991) conducted to confirm the safety and efficacy of magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound for treating essential tremor in the local population. From 2019 to 2020, 10 patients with medication refractory essential tremor were recruited into this open-label, single arm study. The treatment efficacy was determined using the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor. Safety was evaluated according to the incidence and severity of adverse events. All of the subjects underwent a unilateral thalamotomy targeting the ventral intermediate nucleus. At the baseline assessment, the estimated marginal mean of the Clinical Rating Scale for Tremor total score was 58.3 ± 3.6, and this improved after treatment to 23.1 ± 6.4 at a 12-month follow-up assessment. A total of 50 adverse events were recorded, and 2 were defined as serious. The most common intraoperative adverse events were nausea and headache. The most frequent postoperative adverse events were paresthesia and equilibrium disorder. Most of the adverse events were mild and usually disappeared within a few days. Our findings suggest that magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound for the treatment of essential tremor is effective, with a good safety profile, for patients in Chinese mainland.
Young adult sexual health: Masturbation behaviors among para-medical trainees
Authors: Shekar Chandra , Shetty Kannappa V , Gowda Mahesh R , Srinivas Preethi , Gurusamy Periyasamy , Kumbar Prabha , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background:

Students’ life is a very exciting phase of life fraught with many challenges in sex and sexuality. Understanding masturbation is important in maintaining a positive attitude toward sex and sexuality.

Materials and Methods:

It is a descriptive study conducted among 150 bachelors of nursing students from three different nursing colleges in Bengaluru city, Karnataka. The sociodemographic data, semi-structured questionnaire, and the attitudes toward masturbation scale were used for data collection.

Results:

Masturbation is more common among male students than among female students. 45% of males reported that after masturbation they felt relaxed, whereas 41% of females were ashamed of their masturbation. Most nursing students view sex as an important aspect of life and masturbation as a natural practice of human sexuality.

Conclusion:

Health professionals have a distinct role to play in society in spreading healthy sexual behaviors.
Analytical and clinical performance evaluation of enhanced chemiluminescence-based fourth-generation HIV combo assay: Report from tertiary health-care setup in North India
Authors: Tiwari Aseem Kumar , Aggarwal Geet , Pabbi Swati , Mitra Subhasis , Yadav Neeti , Verma Virendra , Cheirmaraj K.
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION:

HIV fourth-generation assay, designed for the detection of HIV p24 antigen along with anti-HIV antibodies of both immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G type against HIV 1 and HIV 2 viral antigens, have helped in the early detection of HIV infection and supports in minimizing the transmission risk in the acute phase of infection. The objective of this study was to evaluate the analytical and clinical performance of HIV fourth-generation assay based on enhanced chemiluminescence technology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The analytical performance of the assay was evaluated in terms of accuracy, precision, limit of detection, type of sample (serum vs. plasma), cross-reactivity (with other transfusion transmissible infections markers), and interference (with endogenous substances). Proficiency control material included kit-controls, archived known positive donor samples, third-party controls, and World Health Organization (WHO)/National Institute for Biological Standards and Controls (NIBSC, MHRA, UK) controls. The clinical performance was evaluated using routine donor and patient samples received during the study period.

RESULTS:

HIV fourth-generation assay showed reliable and reproducible results measured in terms of coefficient of variation % with kit-controls, archived known positive donor samples, third-party controls, and WHO international standards for anti-HIV 1 and 2 antibodies, HIV1 p24 antigens and HIV2 p26 antigen controls. The analytical sensitivity of the HIV fourth-generation assay was found to be 0.1 IU/mL of HIV1 p24 antigen control and there was no cross-reactivity or interference observed. In the clinical performance of the assay, HIV fourth-generation assay showed reliable performance in both donor and patient samples.

CONCLUSION:

HIV fourth-generation assay meets the requirements for its use as a screening assay for HIV infection based on the analytical and clinical performance of the assay.
Determination of the Rh/Kell phenotypes in donor as well as patients might be significant to provide phenotype-matched blood to cancer patients: A retrospective analysis from a tertiary care oncology center in North India
Authors: Pathak Amardeep , Tejwani Narender , Panda Devasis , Mehta Anurag
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Multiple reports are available from different parts of the globe indicating the incidences of alloimmunization and blood transfusion-related reactions, which emphasizes the need for phenotyping and providing antigen-matched safe blood.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

This study aims to determine the frequency of Rh and Kell antigens and phenotype for both donors and patients to propose the importance of providing Rh Kell phenotype cross-matched packed red blood cell (RBC) units to minimize the alloimmunization and transfusion reactions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Ten thousand blood donors and four thousand patients were investigated between October 2017 and July 2019. Each donor unit was tested for blood grouping, antibody screening, and Rh Kell antigen Phenotyping, and the blood unit was issued after the patient’s blood grouping, antibody screening by 3 cell panels, and Rh Kell antigen phenotyping followed by cross-matching with an Rh Kell-matched phenotype RBC unit.

RESULTS:

Nine thousand four hundred and fifty-two donors were D positive (94.5%) while 548 tested D negative (5.5%). Overall Rh and K antigens frequencies in donors were: “e” (98%) >“D” (94.5%) >“C” (86.6%) > “c” (57.5%) >“E” (18.8%) >K (0.98%). Among patients, 3762 tested D positive (94.05%), and 238 tested D negative (5.95%). Overall Rh and K antigens frequencies in patients were: “e” (98.5%) >“D” (94.05%) >“C” (90.2%) >“c” (51%) >“E” (18.2%) >K (1.8%).

CONCLUSION:

Our study has given us more clarity on the prevalence of major Rh and K antigens in our donor as well as patient populations, highlighting the similarities as well as differences. This variance holds a great significance, since such donor units when transfused into patients may lead to alloimmunization and adverse transfusion reactions. Hence, the determination of Rh and Kell phenotypes and providing phenotype-matched blood will help prevent such events.
Experience from an immunohematology reference testing center
Authors: Mathur Ankit , Prinja Nippun , Srivalli A. , Chakraboty Santanu , Reddy T. S. Vijay Kumar
Published: January 2024

Blood Centres in India lack infrastructure to investigate immunohematology problems. Reference Testing Center (RTC) was established in 2014 to investigate Immunohematological problem as it is not possible for small blood centers to go for complete immunohematology work up due to lack of financial and technical resources in remote and rural areas. Objective of this study is to share our experience as RTC of past 6 years so that more RTC are established across Indian subcontinent. 1456 Discrepant samples received from various hospitals of South India for Immunohematology problems were analysed in 6 years. Maximum requisitions obtained in 2014 were more than 40 years of age and then 21-40 years of age group in 2015 and same was observed till 2020.75% of total samples received were for antibody identification followed by blood group discrepancy resolution, investigation of positive DAT, red cell phenotype and pre-natal evaluation & antibody titration. Single allo-antibodies were identified in 773 cases whereas multiple allo-antibodies were found in 118 cases. Most common single and multiple antibody found was anti D and Anti-D+C. Weak D subgroup was the most common blood group discrepancy.22 cases & 4 cases of Bombay and para-bombay were also investigated.
Indian clinical practice consensus guidelines for the management of oropharyngeal cancer: Update 2022
Authors: Noronha Vanita , Prabhash Kumar , Babu K Govind , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Kuriakose Moni , Birur Praveen , Anand Anil K , Kaushal Ashish , Mahajan Abhishek , Syiemlieh Judita , Singhal Manish , Gairola Munish , Ramachandra Prakash , Goyal Sumit , John Subashini , Nayyar Rohit , Patil Vijay M , Rao Vishal , Roshan Vikas , Rath G.K.
Published: January 2024

The aim of oropharyngeal cancer treatment should be to treat the disease while preserving speech and swallowing abilities. Early-stage disease is generally treated with surgery/radiotherapy (RT). A combination of chemotherapy and RT should be considered instead of RT alone for patients with locally advanced disease. Patients with locally advanced resectable disease can be treated with transoral or open resection of the primary + ipsilateral/bilateral neck dissection ± adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CTRT)/adjuvant RT. In unresectable locally advanced disease, sequential induction chemotherapy (TPF [docetaxel, cisplatin, fluorouracil]) followed by locoregional treatment with RT or CTRT can be considered. Adding targeted therapies like nimotuzumab to cisplatin-based CTRT in locally advanced head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma improves the progression-free survival, locoregional control, and disease-free survival without negatively impacting the quality of life.
Indian clinical practice consensus guidelines for the management of laryngeal cancer: Update 2022
Authors: Singhal Manish , Prabhash Kumar , Babu K. Govind , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Kuriakose Moni , Birur Praveen , Anand Anil K. , Kaushal Ashish , Mahajan Abhishek , Syiemlieh Judita , Gairola Munish , Ramachandra Prakash , Goyal Sumit , John Subashini , Nayyar Rohit , Patil Vijay M. , Rao Vishal , Noronha Vanita , Roshan Vikas , Rath G. K.
Published: January 2024

In laryngeal cancer, the goal of treatment is to achieve maximum cure and preserve function of the larynx with good voice quality. In early disease, transoral laser microsurgery is the preferred choice of treatment. An option for treatment of carcinomain situis radiotherapy (RT). In locally advanced laryngeal carcinoma, concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CTRT) is an option. Induction therapy with docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5-flourouracil (TPF), followed by definitive RT or definitive CTRT can be one of the organ preservation approaches for patients undergoing total laryngectomy. For resectable locally advanced disease (T3, N0-3), surgery (laryngectomy with thyroidectomy, ipsilateral or bilateral neck dissection, and pretracheal and ipsilateral paratracheal lymph node dissection) with RT or CTRT should be considered.
Effect of three different intracanal medications on canal wall cleanliness and radicular dentin microhardness
Authors: Mohamed Amira Ibrahim , Abdou Soha Adel , Aly Yousra
Published: January 2024

Background/aim

Complete removal of intracanal medication from the canals before root canal obturation is an essential step. This research was conducted to comparatively assess the remaining debris after the removal of three intracanal medications: silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) paste, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with curcumin paste, and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) paste on the root canal walls and their effect on microhardness of radicular dentin.

Materials and methods

Thirty human extracted single-rooted teeth were selected from the National Research Centre Dental Clinic, Egypt. The crowns of the teeth were decapitated at the cementoenamel junction. All root canals were mechanically prepared. The specimens were randomly divided into three groups (each = 10) according to the type of medication used. Group A: AgNPs paste. Group B: AgNPs with curcumin paste. Group C: Ca(OH)2 paste. Intracanal medications were injected into the root canals and all specimens were incubated at 37°C for 7 days, then the intracanal medications were removed from the root canals and specimens were longitudinally sectioned. One-half of each specimen was examined under a stereomicroscope to evaluate the amount of remaining debris. The other half of each specimen was used to measure dentin microhardness using the Vickers Microhardness Tester. Statistical analysis was done.

Results

AgNPs paste showed a significantly low mean value of the remaining debris than AgNPs with curcumin paste, while Ca(OH)2 paste had a significantly highest mean value of the remaining debris than AgNPs paste alone or mixed with curcumin. AgNPs paste had the highest significant mean value of microhardness, then AgNPs with curcumin paste, while Ca(OH)2 paste had a significantly lowest mean value of microhardness.

Conclusion

AgNPs paste and AgNPs with curcumin paste used as intracanal medications were removed from the root canals with a minimal amount of the remaining debris and less effect on dentin microhardness than the Ca(OH)2 paste.
Post-coronavirus disease 2019 frequent use of disinfectants and sanitizers affect lung tissue: experimental study
Authors: Khattab Amr , ElShebiney Shaimaa
Published: January 2024

Background/aim

Regular and excessive use of general household disinfectants and hand sanitizers has increased since coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) hit as per World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations. However, existing knowledge about hypochlorite use as a disinfectant is inadequate for the applied experimental conditions are generally not translated to real life. This study explores the effect of the regular use of the commonly recommended disinfectants such as alcohol-based solutions and 0.1% hypochlorite on the lung and liver tissues of rats.

Materials and methods

Sixteen Wistar rats were assigned to two housing conditions, first group cages were cleaned regularly with tap water. The second group was exposed to regular sanitization of the cages twice daily for 2 months using 70% alcohol followed by 1% hypochlorite solution, 30 min apart. Serum redox state was evaluated and serum liver enzymes were assessed. Lung and liver tissues were examined biochemically for inflammatory markers such as IL-1B, NF-kB, VEGF, and oxidant biomarkers such as MDA and antioxidant markers including GSH, SOD, and GPx. A histological examination was performed.

Results

Serum liver enzymes, antioxidants in serum or liver tissues and the inflammatory biomarkers in liver tissue were insignificantly changed, while lung tissue was inflamed and proceeded to fibrotic changes and the inflammatory biomarkers of IL-1β and NF-kβ, and VEGF of lung tissue were significantly elevated (P < 0.05) after surface disinfectant exposure to alcohol followed by 0.1% hypochlorite solution for two months. Moreover, the GSH and GPx levels were significantly reduced (P < 0.05), while the MDA level was significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the serum and lungs of a disinfectant exposed group of rats.

Conclusion

Frequent and excessive exposure to alcohol followed by 0.1% hypochlorite solution even as recommended can pose a risk to the respiratory system. Their application in cleaning routine should be wisely considered.
Influence of food consumption and packaging on urinary Bisphenol-A level in a sample of Egyptian students
Authors: Sabry Rania N. , Moustafa Rehab S.I. , Wahba Saneya A. , Salah El-Din Ebtissam M. , Boseila Samia , Youssef Mai M. , Abushady Mones M. , Hussein Jihan , Medhat Dalia , Morsy Safaa M. , Salah Dina A.
Published: January 2024

Background/aim

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high-production volume industrial chemical used in the manufacture of plastic products as polycarbonate and epoxy resin that line food cans. It has a hazardous effect on human health. This study aimed to investigate whether increased consumption of different food types and food packing will be associated with higher urinary levels of BPA or not, in a sample of Egyptian students.

Subjects and methods

A random sample of 125 Egyptian children and adolescents from 6–18 years old of different social levels was included. Participants were classified into two groups. The first group included participants less than 12 years old, and the second group included those 12 years or above. Sixty four participants were males, and sixty-one were females. Urine samples were analysed from the studied children and adolescents to assess urinary BPA levels.

Results

The present results indicated that urinary BPA levels were significantly increased in older adolescents (≥12 years) than those less than twelve years old (P=0.01). Higher juice consumption was significantly associated with higher BPA levels in urine (P=0.002).

Conclusions

Food consumption had no obvious effect on BPA levels except for juice consumption which has a significant influence on BPA secretion. Also, food storage and packaging had no significant role in BPA levels.
Evaluation of two-dimensional ultrasound fetal thymus size in correlation to infection parameters in pregnancies complicated with preterm premature rupture of membranes
Authors: Abdallah Amal Kotb , Mohesen Mohamed , Kamal Nagwan , Elsalam Sahar Mahmoud Abd , Salem Sondos , Salama Ehab , Abdel-Rasheed Mazen , Eweis Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Background/aim

The thymus is essential for developing the fetal immune system and may show involution upon exposure to acute stress. Early detection of intrauterine infection is urgently needed to avoid fetal affection and sepsis. The present study aims to correlate the fetal thymus size with the infection parameters in pregnancies complicated with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

Subjects and methods

The present study recruited pregnant women who fulfilled the inclusion criteria in a ratio of 1 case to 4 controls according to the study design; Group 1 of twenty cases presenting in PPROM, and Group 2 of eighty cases of women without PPROM. The primary outcome of the study was to measure fetal thymus size by abdominal ultrasound and its correlation with maternal total leukocytic count (TLC) and its differential count, C-reactive protein (CRP), and maternal fever. The secondary outcomes involved the correlation of the fetal thymus size with fetal distress, the occurrence of neonatal infection, Apgar neonatal score, and histological examination of the placenta and membranes for evidence of chorioamnionitis.

Results

Group 1 had a significantly higher CRP level (P<0.001), higher TLC level (P=0.035), and higher Staff (P<0.001). On the contrary, group 2 had significantly higher AFI (P=0.022), greater Thymus perimeter (P<0.001), and greater thymus transverse diameter (P<0.001). In addition, the pathological examination of the placenta revealed positive signs of infection in group 1 in only 65% of cases. Group 1 had a positive correlation between Thymus perimeter and APGAR score of the neonates (r=0.658, P=0.002), Thymus perimeter and birth weight (r=0.741, P<0.001), Thymus transverse diameter and APGAR score of the neonates (r=0.741, P<0.001), and finally Thymus transverse diameter and birth weight (r=0.734, P<0.001). Group 2 showed a significant positive correlation between the Thymus perimeter and neonatal APGAR score (r=0.232, P=0.039) and Thymus transverse diameter and birth weight (r=0.320, P=0.004). In Group 1, Cases with placental signs of infection (n=13) had higher CRP levels (P=0.046), higher TLC levels (P=0.014), higher Staff (P<0.001), but lower AFI (P=0.032).

Conclusion

The assessment of the fetal thymus during the routine second- and/or third-trimester scan could be a predictive measure for intra-amniotic infection. However, there is no association between small fetal thymus and adverse perinatal outcomes in uncomplicated pregnancies. Further larger studies with different demographic, maternal characteristics, and different inflammatory processes with and without active management to summarize whether fetal thymus can be used in clinical practice to avoid infection-related fetal morbidities or not.
Characterization and ameliorative effects of Chenopodium murale hydroethanolic extract against diethylnitrosamine-induced hepato-renal damage and malfunction
Authors: Abou- Seif Howida S. , Ahmed Osama M. , El-Newary Samah A. , Shabana Marwa E. , EL-Kassaby Mahitab I. , Elqattan Ghada M. , Sawie Hussein G.
Published: January 2024

Background/aim

Chenopodium genus has broad applications in folk medicine. Chenopodium murale (C. murale) exhibited several pharmacological benefits, including hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antifungal, antibacterial, phytotoxic, hepatoprotective and renoprotective effects. The principal objective unveils the preventive effects of C. murale against hepato-renal damage and malfunction induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN).

Materials and methods

Forty rats were included in the present study divided into 4 groups, group 1, animals were given saline solution every day for 14 weeks. Group 2, animals were injected double times per week by intraperitoneal route with DEN at 150 mg/kg body weight for 2 weeks. Animals in group 3 were injected with DEN like in group 2 and subjected orally to C. murale hydroethanolic extract (500 mg/kg body weight) daily for 14 weeks. Animals in group 4 received the same dose of the hydroethanolic extract of C. murale for a similar period.

Results

DEN has injurious effects, associated with elevated liver enzyme activities (AST, ALT and ALP), urea and creatinine in serum. Also, lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide were elevated markedly. DEN lowered the hepatic and renal activities of endogenous antioxidants (CAT and SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH) level. Conversely, treatment with C. murale restored liver function biomarker activities, urea and creatinine levels as well as mitigated the oxidative damage induced by DEN. C. murale reflecting its ameliorative potential which diminished obviously the DEN-induced elevated hepato-renal levels of IL-1β and TNF-α (immuno- inflammatory indicators), also down regulated Bcl-2, NF-κB, and Nrf-2 (inflammatory mediators).

Conclusion

These findings proved that C. murale might protect and ameliorate DEN-induced hepato-renal damage through activation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory systems.
Morphological changes in root dentin after irradiation with diode laser 980 nm in two directions: an in-vitro study
Authors: Eltayeb Elsayed Abdallah , Abdou Soha Adel
Published: January 2024

Background/aim

Laser technology is an essential aid tool for endodontic treatment procedures. The most common type of laser used in the endodontic field was diode laser 980 nm. The present work aimed to assess the morphological variations and chemical changes in root canal dentin treated with diode laser 980 nm in two directions parallel and perpendicular by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS).

Materials and methods

Thirty extracted human single-rooted lower premolars teeth with mature apex were chosen from Dental Department of Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Egypt. Their crowns were resected at the cement-enamel junction (CEJ), and their roots were mechanically prepared. The roots were categorized into two groups (each = 15): according to the direction of laser application. In group A the laser was directed parallel to the root canal, while in the group B it was directed perpendicular to the root canal. All groups were analyzed by SEM and EDS examination. Statistical analysis was done by Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests and comparison between two groups was performed by independent t-analysis, while in qualitative data Chi-square test was used.

Results

The results of group A where the laser was directed parallel to the root canal exhibited score 1 (86.7%) in the coronal section, score 3 (80%) in the middle section, and score 4 (80%) in the apical section. The results of group B where the laser was directed perpendicular to the root canal represented score 1 (86.7%) in the coronal section, score 1 (73.3%) in the middle section, and score 3 (73.3%) in the apical section.

Conclusion

Diode laser 980 nm in a perpendicular direction to root canal dentin surface produced more morphological changes than when used in a parallel direction, however regarding the chemical changes, there were no chemical changes detected between the two directions.
Prevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in the saliva of individuals with coronavirus disease 2019: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Araujo Nara Santos , Paty Diana Sofia Patrocinio , Brites Carlos , Costa Denis Damião , Vaz Sara Nunes , de Santana Daniele Souza , Araki Daniel Ribeiro , dos Santos Jean Nunes , Cury Patricia Ramos
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Saliva is involved in the transmission and spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); however, there are conflicting data regarding the detection rate of SARS-CoV-2 in the saliva. This study aims to investigate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the saliva of individuals with a mild form of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Materials and methods: A sample of 110 participants who showed flu-like symptoms for 3 to 7 days and tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 after rapid antigen testing of nasopharyngeal swabs were included. Immediately after testing positive for COVID-19, the participants were asked to spit 1.5 mL saliva sample into sterile collectors. Salivary samples were homogenized and diluted, and viral nucleic acid was extracted and amplified by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assays (qRT-PCR genes N1 and N2). A Ct value <40 was defined as a positive result. Results: The N1 and N2 genes were amplified in 98.2% of the participants. In one case (0.9%), only the N2 gene was amplified, and there was no amplification in another case. The virus load was high (Ct ≤ 25) in 9.3% of the participants, moderate (Ct between 25 and 30) in 31.5%, and low (Ct between 30 and 40) in 60.2%. Conclusion: SARS-CoV-2 was present in the saliva of most individuals with mild COVID-19, with majority having a low salivary concentration of the virus. Dental care should be postponed during the COVID-19 outbreak. For urgent treatment, infection prevention measures should be adopted.
Assessment of Tumor Budding in Different Grades of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Selvaraj Freeda Mary , Pillai Varun Raghavan , Joseph Anna Palliath , Ramani Prathiba , Pazhani Jayanthi , Mony Vinod
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignancy affecting the oral cavity in which patient prognosis and treatment primarily depend upon histological grading and clinical staging. Tumor budding has been recognized as a morphological marker of tumor invasion, which represents an aggressive feature of epithelial malignancies. This study was done to assess the activity of tumor budding in different grades of OSCC. Materials and Methods: An immunohistochemical study was performed on tissue sections obtained from 30 paraffin-embedded blocks of clinically and histologically diagnosed cases of OSCC. The sections were stained with pan cytokeratin and observed under high-power magnification. Tumor budding activity and cell nest size were assessed in different grades of OSCC. Results: A significant correlation was observed between tumor budding and cell nest size in OSCC. Conclusion: This study suggests the importance of using tumor buds as an additional parameter in the diagnosis and grading of OSCC.
Nesting statistics in the $O(n)$ loop model on random maps of arbitrary topologies
Authors: Borot Gaëtan , Garcia-Failde Elba
Published: January 2024

We pursue the analysis of nesting statistics in the

O(n)

loop model on random maps, initiated for maps with the topology of disks and cylinders by Borot, Bouttier and Duplantier (2016), here for arbitrary topologies. For this purpose, we rely on the topological recursion results by Borot, Eynard and Orantin (2011, 2015) for the enumeration of maps in the

O(n)

model. We characterize the generating series of maps of genus

\mathsf{g}

with

k

boundaries and

k'

marked points which realize a fixed nesting graph. These generating series are amenable to explicit computations in the loop model with bending energy on triangulations, and we characterize their behavior at criticality in the dense and in the dilute phase.
Microplastic Pollution in Turkish Aquatic Ecosystems: Sources, Characteristics, Implications, and Mitigation Strategies
Authors: Aydın İlhan , Terzi Yahya , Gündoğdu Sedat , Aytan Ülgen , Öztürk Rafet Çağrı , Atamanalp Muhammed , Alak Gonca , Sivri Nüket , Akarsu Ceyhun , Atıcı Ataman Altuğ , Guven Olgac , Bat Levent , Kilic Ece , Oztekin Aysah , Ucar Arzu , Sönmez Vildan Zülal , Pasli Serap , Kideys Ahmet E.
Published: January 2024

Aquatic environments are one of the final destinations for microplastics. In this review, a combination of systematic and narrative literature review was conducted to identify and summarise advances, gaps, and future directions in microplastic monitoring studies in the Turkish aquatic environment and in inhabiting aquatic organisms. A total of 62 peer-reviewed publications available on Web of Science were considered in the systematic review. Additionally, the current state of microplastic pollution in Turkish aquatic environments which includes marine and freshwater ecosystems, as well as aquatic organisms, and sources and characteristics of microplastics were reviewed narratively. Türkiye`s position on the global plastic treaty and mitigation practices were also addressed. Although an increase in the number of publications over time was observed, the number and extent of studies carried out in freshwater ecosystems are limited. Strict legislation should be enacted and enforced to tackle plastic pollution in Türkiye. Additionally, nationwide, long-term monitoring studies at sufficiently regular intervals in aquatic environments should be considered.
Enhancing Cargo Transportation Using Intelligent Systems for Better Logistic Management
Authors: Jagtap Pramod Prakash , Kale Shreeja , Mahali Rakesh
Published: January 2024

Efficient cargo transportation plays a crucial role in logistics management and supply chain operations. Accurately detecting and utilizing cargo space within vehicles is vital for maximizing transport capacity, minimizing costs, and optimizing resource allocation and time management. This research paper focuses on enhancing cargo utilization using intelligent systems to improve logistics management. The major research is on developing a system that combines computer vision algorithms and intelligent systems to detect and implement a combination of features for efficient use of cargo space within vehicles and monitor cargo to reduce losses. The proposed approach will use and utilize image processing methods to get relevant features and identify cargo areas. Machine learning models, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and object detection frameworks, will be trained and evaluated on a comprehensive dataset of cargo images to identify the most effective approach for cargo space detection. The proposed research will involve collecting and analyzing relevant data, including vehicle dimensions, and cargo types. Various computer vision algorithms, such as object detection and machine learning algorithms, will be employed to accurately identify and quantify the available cargo space. Machine learning models, including deep learning frameworks, will be trained and evaluated to improve the accuracy and robustness of the cargo space detection system. The outcomes of this research will provide valuable insights and practical solutions for logistics managers, transportation companies. By enhancing cargo space utilization by observing different parameters, transportation efficiency can be improved, leading to reduced costs, optimized resource utilization, and enhanced overall logistics management.
Review on Laser Welding of High Strength Aluminium Alloy for Automotive Applications
Authors: Sahu Hemant , Dave Rajeev , Chauhan Shiv , Dwivedi Ravi
Published: January 2024

High strength aluminium alloys are an ideal material in the automotive sector leading to a significant weight reduction and enhancement in product safety. In recent past extensive development in the field of high strength steel and aluminium was undertaken. This development has been propelled due to demand for light weight automotive parts. The high strength to weight ratio possessed by Al alloy helps in reducing the total weight of the vehicle without effecting the overall performance, thereby increasing the fuel economy, and reducing the carbon emission level. Joining of high strength aluminium alloy is critical to develop durable automotive products. Joining of high strength aluminium alloy for mass production in automobile industry is a challenging task. Laser welding is recognized as an advanced process to join materials with a laser beam of high-power, high- energy density. In the present study efforts are made to summarize the influence of important process parameters of laser welding on the mechanical and metallurgical behaviour of the weld joint. It includes literature review of previous important articles on laser welding of high strength aluminium alloy. Major issues and possible solutions for laser welding of high strength aluminium alloy are described in this article. Critical observations, statistics and overall summary related to laser welding presented in this work will be useful to the research community.
Leaf trichome diversity, acylsugar concentration, and their relationships to leaf area in Solanum galapagense
Authors: Henzler Ilan , Khazaei Hamid
Published: January 2024

Glandular trichomes are physical and chemical barriers used by some tomato wild relatives to confer resistance against insect pests and diseases transmitted by them. Solanum galapagense has been identified as one of the potential sources of insect pest resistance. The present study aimed to examine the trichome diversity and acylsugar concentration of 26 accessions of S. galapagense along with one cultivated tomato (S. lycopersicum) and one cherry tomato (S. l. cerasiforme) cultivar. The results revealed large phenotypic variation among S. galapagense accessions for all studied traits. The S. galapagense accessions had significantly higher trichome types IV density on the adaxial and abaxial surfaces of the leaf and greater acylsugar concentration but a smaller leaflet area than the cultivated tomato. The selected cherry tomato line represents greater trichome type IV density and acylsugar concentration than other groups. The acylsugar concentration was positively associated with trichome type IV but negatively associated with trichome type V on both leaf surfaces. DNA markers revealed the presence of two previously identified whitefly-resistance alleles in S. galapagense accessions. This study will support breeding programs aiming to improve insect pest resistance in tomato cultivars using crop wild relatives.