bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth: Therapeutic privilege
Authors: Shalak M , Shariff MA , Doddapaneni V , Suleman N
Published: August 2022

The term therapeutic privilege is unfamiliar in the medical field and often sparks questions and discomfort about its ethical implications. Therapeutic privilege refers to the act of withholding information by a clinician, with the underlying notion that the disclosure of this information would inflict harm or suffering upon the patient. This is a case of a 56-year-old woman who presented to our facility under critical conditions. She developed sepsis with acute respiratory failure, requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation. Prior to her admission, her husband had been admitted at our facility's intensive care unit. On the same day when our patient was extubated, her husband had died. The palliative care team was consulted to assist with disclosing this information to the patient in light of her emotional fragility, her anxiety, and concerns for her ability to receive such news given her own active illnesses.
Early Clinical Management of Sepsis: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Anyalebechi Jerome C. , Coopersmith Craig M.
Published: August 2022

Abstract

Sepsis is a syndrome initiated by an infection in which an aberrant host response to the initiating microbe leads to organ dysfunction, and, all too frequently, mortality. An enormous increase in our understanding of sepsis has occurred over the past 25 years. Unfortunately, this increase has not been matched by successful new therapies, and sepsis treatment continues to be centered on timely antibiotics and supportive care. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign has focused practitioners on bundles for quality improvement and guidelines for bedside management. Adhering to standardized care has been associated with improvements in patient outcome. The mainstays of sepsis management, including diagnosis, fluid resuscitation, antimicrobial management, and vasopressors, are critical to successfully treating patients with sepsis and septic shock and play a major role in determining outcome from sepsis. At the same time, there is increasing recognition that a “one size fits all” model cannot always be the best approach to patient management because of the inherent heterogeneity associated with sepsis, both in terms of initiating microbe and the host response. Further, identifying new targets for therapy may allow for improved outcomes. This review study serves to highlight the past and present facets of early clinical management of septic patients and then illustrate future directions that will hopefully improve outcomes in this common and lethal syndrome.
Clinical Features and Surgical Outcomes of Branchial Cleft Cyst at a Tertiary Care Hospital, Saudi Arabia, a Retrospective Study
Authors: AlMutairi Nasser K. , AlMofada Hesham S. , AlaEdin Jebreel B.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Branchial cleft anomalies are the second-most common congenital malformation in the head-and-neck region. They arise from persistent ruminants of pharyngeal clefts and pouches and are classified into four distinct types; the most prevalent one is type 2, which involves the sternocleidomastoid muscles (SCM). The definitive treatment for the four types is complete surgical excision of the anomaly.

Objective:

The present study describes the clinical features and surgical outcomes for both unilateral and bilateral branchial cleft cysts at a tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Design and Setting:

This retrospective study involved collecting data from patients' records of King Faisal Specialist Hospital, Saudi Arabia, who had surgical excision for branchial cleft cyst in the duration between January 2010 and September 2020. The collected data included patients' demographics, characters of the branchial anomaly, complications, and characters of the procedure. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS v. 20. for both descriptive and comparative analysis.

Results:

A total of 18 cases were eligible for inclusion. Of the whole cohort, 55.6% were females. All cases were type 2, with the majority being in the anterior border of sternoclenomastoid (83.3%) and unilateral (77.8%). Discharge was reported as the most common complication, occurring among half of the patients. The diagnostic investigation was only performed in situations of recurrence (22.2%). The prevalence of the bilateral cyst is 22.2%. There was no statistically significant association between the associated genetic disease and the unilateral or bilateral cysts (P = 0.054).

Conclusion:

Type 2 unilateral cysts are the most prevalent for the examined population, specifically on the anterior border of SCM. A low recurrence rate and low incidence of complications propose an effective management strategy.
Barriers to uptake of cervical cancer screening among women in Nigeria: a systematic review
Authors: J Mafiana Joy , Dhital Sushma , Halabia Mohamednour , Wang Xiaohui
Published: August 2022

Background: Cervical cancer is the second most frequent cancer and cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Nigeria. The Visual inspection with acetic acid and cryotherapy "see and treat" screening approach is a feasible and effective method that can be implemented in low resource settings like Nigeria; however, screening utilization is still low.

Objective: This systematic review aims at offering a comprehensive synthesis of studies that assessed the barriers preventing women from utilizing cervical cancer screening services in Nigeria.

Methods: Electronic data search was performed on PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMbase, Directory of Open Access Journals, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, and quality assessment was conducted for the included studies. Data were extracted independently by two authors and thematically analysed for barriers to cervical cancer screening utilization.

Results: Fifteen studies, consisting of 9,995 women aged 15 and above published between 2007 and 2020, were included. Frequently reported barriers to cervical screening include lack of knowledge of cervical cancer and screening, health service factors, screening is unnecessary, fear of outcome and procedure, and financial constraints.

Conclusion: Lack of adequate information about cervical cancer is a significant hindrance to screening; this factor is strongly associated with the numerous misconceptions and negative perceptions. The study highlights the need for further assessment of the sociodemographic determinants of cervical cancer screening uptake in Nigeria. Preventive strategies should be targeted at improving the dissemination of valid information, reducing the knowledge gap among women, and addressing the financial and health service factors.

Keywords: Cervical cancer screening; barriers; uptake; Nigeria; systematic review.
Exploring the use of p53 protein expression as an indicator of oesophageal cancer severity from a high incidence rural area of Africa
Authors: J Ndebia Eugene , Ngonyama Thandazile , Molaoa Steve
Published: August 2022

Background: The expression of p53 has been associated with the severity of other types of cancer. There is scanty information when it comes to oesophageal cancer.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the use of p53 protein expression as an indicator of oesophageal cancer severity from a high-risk incidence in the African rural population.

Methods: Fifty-one patients newly diagnosed with oesophageal cancer were recruited from the endoscopic unit at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha, South Africa. The serological expression of p53 was measured using the ELISA method and the severity of oesophageal cancer expressed in grade was obtained from the histopathology report from patient’s oesophageal biopsies.

Results: We found that the expression of p53 was equally distributed among the histological grades of cancer with the value of 2495 pg/mL ± 1736 pg/ mL for lower grades and 2520 ± 1539 pg/mL for higher grades. Furthermore, we found that the level of p53 expression was equally distributed in patients from grade 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Conclusion: The expression of p53 protein does not vary according to the histological grade of oesophageal cancer in the given population, therefore may not be helpful as a prognostic factor.

Keywords: p53 protein expression; aoesophageal cancer; Africa.
Outcome and prognostic markers of cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patients admitted to a hepatology ICU in a tertiary care university hospital
Authors: Abdellatif Zeinab , Eletreby Rasha , Samir Reham , Abdallah Mohamed , Lithy Rania , Zayed Naglaa
Published: August 2022

Background and aim: Patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis are not given priority for ICU admission in the settings of limited place availability. Recently, advances in medical care led to improvement in their survival. Our aim is to study the outcome of patients admitted to our hepatology ICU.

Methods: We retrieved the data of patients admitted to the Endemic Medicine Department ICU at Kasr Al-Ainy Hospital in the period from November 2014 to May 2018. We included 498 patients who had complete clinical and outcome data in this analysis. The primary outcome was ICU mortality and its predictors.

Results: The overall mortality was 48.1% in the liver cirrhosis versus 52.9% in the non-cirrhosis group. The most common presentations of cirrhotic patients were hepatic encephalopathy and hypovolemic shock. The SOFA score and sepsis independently predicted mortality in the overall cohort.

Conclusion:The mortality of cirrhotic patients admitted to ICU is not higher than non-cirrhotic patients. SOFA score is a good prognostic indicator in patients with cirrhosis.

Keywords: Liver cirrhosis; ICU; SOFA score; mortality.
Regulation of male sex hormones strongly heightens copulation behavior indices in rat’s model administered Cocos nucifera husks extract
Authors: Bolaji Odigie Efosa , Emosho Atoigwe Blessing , Francis Blessing , Kehinde Lawal Monsurat , Ogie Erameh Theophilus , Nwaobi Anthony , Precious Arugba Ewamazino
Published: August 2022

Background: Cocos nucifera (Coconut, Arecaceae family) is consumed as dietary fruit but little is known of it as sex enhancer.

Objective: To investigate male sex hormones and copulation behavior indices in male Wistar rats administered husks extract.

Materials and Methods: Rats were grouped into control A, and treatment B to E (n=4); and administered husks extract at varying doses: 125mg/kg, 250mg/kg, 375mg/kg and 500mg/kg for 48days by oral intubation. Copulation behavior was assessed by introducing female rats to males (1:1) in a rectangular Plexiglas chamber and monitored by veterinary Anatomists. Blood samples for male sex hormones were collected and assayed by ELISA method.

Results: Copulation behavior (500mg/kg treatment): mounting (9.66±0.79 to 29.08±2.16), ejaculation (7.66±0.38 to 16.93±0.76), intromission (22.01±1.67 to 38.11±3.35) frequencies, and ejaculation latency (7.92±0.43 to 12.28±0.41) increased remarkably (Group E). Correspondingly, mounting (133.31±1.18 to 93.39±0.43) and, intromission (88.13±3.12 to 74.55±1.19) latencies; post-ejaculation (3.16±0.14 to 2.18±0.34), inter-intromission (19.48±0.26 to 14.32±1.65) intervals reduced significantly (P≤0.05). Testosterone levels (Group E) increased: 3.82±0.6ng/dL to 5.14±0.3ng/dL while, LH and FSH values reduced: 2.92±0.6IU/L to 2.13±0.3IU/L and 2.28±0.7IU/L to 1.58±0.3IU/L significantly (p ≤ 0.05) while changes were dose-related.

Conclusion: C. nucifera husks extract improves sexuality indices by regulating male sex hormones in male Wistar rats.

Keywords: Cocos nucifera; coconut husk; Coconut fibre; copulation behaviour; male sex hormones; mating profile; hormonal indices; libido; natural sex enhancer; medicinal values.
Subclinical hypothyroidism among infertile women at a tertiary hospital in South-West Nigeria
Authors: E Jagun Olusoji , A Andu Babatunde , O Olawale Olatunbosun
Published: August 2022

Background: Overt thyroid dysfunction is an accepted cause of female infertility. Its milder form, subclinical hypothyroidism have also been implicated as a contributing factor to disturbed reproductive function.

Objective: To determine the contribution of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) to the burden of infertility.

Methodology: This is a cross sectional, comparative study of One hundred and twenty women with primary or secondaryinfertility who presented for evaluation at gynaecological clinic and controls which are clients that came to access Family planning services.

Results: The prevalence of infertility among gynaecological patients seen in the clinic was 38.8% (192/495). The prevalence of SCH among the studied infertile women was 11.7% (7/60) compared with 3.3% (2/60) of the control group (p=0.222).The commonest type of infertility was secondary, 76.7% (46/60). All thestudied infertile women with SCH presented with secondary infertility. There was an observed statistically significant difference in the mean serum TSH (3.19±4.38mIU /L vs 1.60±1.22mIU /L) and FT3, FT4 (0.29±0.074ng/dl vs 0.95±0.16ng/dl and 0.33±0.071ng/dl vs 1.09±0.19ng/dl respectively)

Conclusion: Subclinical hypothyroidism was found to be higher among infertile women but this finding was not statistically significant, therefore, the routine screening for SCH among infertile women might be unnecessary.

Keywords: Hypothyroidism; Infertility; Subclinical; TSH; Women.
Relationship of serum lipid profiles in preeclampsia and normal pregnancy, Bangladesh
Authors: Salma Umme
Published: August 2022

Objective: The purpose of this present study to investigate the lipid profile levels and basal body mass index in preeclampsia and normal pregnancy in Bangladeshi women.

Material and methods: This case-control study was conducted at Sheba Hospital Kaligonj Bangladesh with 70 participants among 35 normal pregnancy (control) and 35 preeclampsia women (case) were enrolled from August 2018 to July 2019. Blood samples were obtained for analysis of total cholesterol, triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein by enzymatic assays and low-density lipoprotein by using Fried Ewald’s formula in between 22-36 weeks of gestation.

Results: This study found the mean age of preeclampsia and normal pregnancy women were 24.71±2.56 and 23.09±2.1 respectively with significant (P= 0.005). Basal body mass index, total cholesterol, triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein significantly higher (P=0.002), (P= 0.000), (P= 0.022) and (P=0.000) in preeclampsia compared to normal pregnancy respectively. While high-density lipoprotein comparatively lower in preeclampsia than normal pregnancy and consider significant as (P=0.037).

Conclusion: Abnormal lipid profile and increased body mass index is contributed to the development of preeclampsia. The frequent antenatal monitoring of lipid profiles provides the status which helps to require management and reduces the preeclampsia which enhances maternal and fetal wellbeing and fetal outcome.

Keywords: Preeclampsia; normal pregnancy; lipid profile; basal body mass index.
Significant hyperbilirubinemia among well neonates due for discharge at Kawempe-Mulago Hospital, prevalence, factors associated, and accuracy of transcutaneous bilirubinometry for screening
Authors: Nassuna Carolyn , Yaser Abdallah , Karamagi Charles , Mugalu Jamir
Published: August 2022

Background: Neonates in low resource settings with a lack of pre-discharge screening and early intervention are at risk for complications associated with significant hyperbilirubinemia (SHB).

Objectives: To determine the prevalence, factors associated and performance of transcutaneous bilirubin (TCB) in identifying well neonates with SHB.

Methods: Over a one month period 235 well neonates 24 to 72 hours of age due for discharge at Kamempe-Mulago Hospital were enrolled in this study. Visual inspection using Kramer rule, transcutaneous bilirubin over the sternum using Draeger JM103 bilirubinometer, and serum bilirubin were determined. Neonates with SHB (total serum bilirubin warranting treatment) were referred for treatment. Relevant data were analyzed. A P-value of <0.05 was considered significant at 95% confidence interval.

Results: Thirty two (13.6%) of the neonates had SHB and three (1.3%) had levels above exchange transfusion threshold. Significant hyperbilirubinemia was independently associated with CRP ≥ 10mg/l (AOR 3.96, CI 1.23-12.73, p 0.021), ABO discordance (AOR 3.67, CI 1.28-10.49, p 0.015), jaundice in a previous sibling (AOR 3.565, CI 1.10-11.51, p 0.034) and time of first feed > 1 hour (AOR 2.74, CI 1.10-6.90, p 0.007). The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of TCB were 96.5%, 84.6%, 47.5% and 99.4% respectively compared to 31.2%, 98.5%, 76.9% and 90% respectively for visual assessment (Kramer grading).

Conclusions: A significant number of well neonates have SHB. Transcutaneous bilirubinometry is a suitable screening tool in this setting. Early initiation of feeding should be promoted. The cause for high CRP among well neonates with SHB needs to be studied further.

Keywords: Significant Hyperbilirubinemia; transcutaneous bilirubinometer.
Predictors of exclusive breastfeeding practice among nursing mothers attending a health care facility in a peri-urban setting in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Ayodeji Sokan–Adeaga Micheal , Allen Sokan–Adeaga Adewale , Deborah Sokan–Adeaga Eniola , Osibogun Akin , Edris Hoseinzadeh
Published: August 2022

Background: The Nigerian government initiated various national infant and young child feeding programmes (1992-2005) to improve juveniles well-being. Despite these efforts, under-five children feeding related diseases and mortality still escalate. Investigating the drivers of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is exigent in tackling this menace.

Objective: To investigate maternal socio-demographic and index child variables that serve as predictors of EBF practice among nursing mother attending a healthcare facility in Lagos, western Nigeria.

Methods: One hundred and twenty (N=120) consenting nursing mothers (15-49 years) with infants between 0-24 months completed a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Scores of current practice level for EBF was computed and adjusted odd ratios (aORs) generated from a logistic regression model.

Results: Respondents mean age was 28.7 ± 2.3 years. Of 120 respondents, 82(68.3%) and 38(31.7%) had good and poor EBF practice respectively. Having an index child <6months age (aOR=5.02, 95% confidence intervalCI=1.28–15.43), being in monogamy (aOR=3.0, 95% CI=1.80–6.73), having tertiary education (aOR=3.12, 95% CI=1.39–8.96), being married (aOR=2.0, 95% CI=0.1–0.8) and vaginal delivery (aOR=2.96, 95% CI=1.75–7.48) increased the odds of EBF practice.

Conclusion: Age of index child, marriage type, maternal education, marital status and nature of delivery independently predicted EBF practice.

Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding practice; Nursing mothers; Predictors; Infant feeding; Child index.
Prevalence and correlates of multiple non-communicable diseases risk factors among male and female adults in Sudan: results of the first national STEPS survey in 2016
Authors: Pengpid Supa , Peltzer Karl
Published: August 2022

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are on the rise in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and correlates of multiple NCD risk factors (inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, low physical activity, tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, diabetes, hypertension, raised total cholesterol and overweight/obesity) among adults in Sudan.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using nationally representative data. The analytic cohort included 7,722 participants who were between the ages of 18-69 years old individuals (median age=36 years) that took part in the “2016 Sudan STEPS survey.”

Results: In all, 34.2% had 0-1 NCD risk factor, 33.5% 2 risk factors, and 32.4% 3 or more NCD risk factors. In adjusted ordinal logistic regression analysis, the odds of having a higher count of NCD risk factors increased from 2.04 to 3.52 from the age group of 35-49 years to age group of 50-69 years when compared to the younger people aged 18-34 years. Men had higher odds (1.21) of higher NCD risk factor count than women. Individuals residing in urban areas had higher odds (1.86) of higher NCD risk factor count than individuals residing in rural areas.

Conclusion: Almost one in three participants had three or more NCD risk factors and several associated variables were identified for men and women that can facilitate in designing intervention programmes.

Keywords: Multiple non-communicable diseases; sociodemographic factors; adults; Sudan.
Response of RLC network circuit with steady source via rohit transform
Authors: Gupta Rohit , Gupta Rahul , Verma Dinesh
Published: August 2022

The electric network circuits are designed by using the elements like resistor R, inductor L, and capacitor Ϲ. There are a number of techniques: exact, approximate, and purely numerical available for analyzing the R L Ϲ network circuits. Since the application of numerical method becomes more complex, computationally intensive, or needs complicated symbolic computations, there is a need to seek the help of integral transform methods for analyzing the RLϹ network circuits. Integral transform methods provide effective ways for solving a variety of problems arising in basic sciences and engineering. In thispaper, a new integral transform Rohit transform is discussed for obtaining the response of a series RLϹ electric network circuit connected to a steady voltage source, and a parallel R L Ϲ electric network circuit connected to a steady current source. The response of a series R L Ϲ network circuit connected to a steady voltage source via the application of Rohit transform will provide an expression for the electric current, and that of a parallel R L Ϲ network circuit connected to a steady current source will provide an expression for the voltage across the parallel RLϹ electric network circuit. The nature of the response of such series (or parallel) network circuits is determined by the values of R, L, and Ϲ of the electric network circuit. The Rohit transform will come out to be a powerful technique for analyzing such series or parallel electric network circuits with steady voltage or current sources.
Growth, lipids, proteins, and carotenoid contents of some freshwater green microalgae under simulated day/night temperature fluctuation
Authors: Eze C.N. , Ogbonna I.O. , Ogbonna J.C.
Published: August 2022

Day/night or seasonal temperature fluctuation is a major factor during outdoor cultivation of microalgae. In the present study, we investigated the impact of simulated day/night temperatures (20oC night and 30oC day) on the growth, lipid, protein and carotenoid contents of four local oleaginous microalgae strains under mixotrophic and heterotrophic conditions. The impact of simulated day/night temperatures on the growth and biochemical compositions varied across species and culture conditions (mixotrophic or heterotrophic). The lipid productivity by Dictyosphaerium sp. under heterotrophic condition was twice the value obtained at constant temperature but showed no significant (p > 0.05) impact under mixotrophic condition. Desmodesmus subspicatus elicited higher lipid (15%) and carotenoid (56%) contents under simulated day/night temperature regime than at constant temperature (30oC) (p<0.05). There was a negative impact on the protein content of the microalgal species under mixotrophic and heterotrophic conditions. The above results have shown that these species have high potentials for co-production of lipids, protein and carotenoid under outdoor conditions.
Pomolic acid inhibits proliferation of human lung carcinoma cells via induction of apoptosis and suppression of cell migration and invasion
Authors: Yang Lixin , Guo Ying , Hao Qian , Li Danqing , Qiao Zhian , Cui Yanli , Li Jing
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To investigate the anti-proliferative effect of pomolic acid on lung cancer cells (A549), and theunderlying mechanism.Methods: The viability of pomolic acid-treated A549 cells was determined by MTT and colony formation assays. Cell colony formation was monitored with acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) staining. Protein expressions of Bax and Bcl-2 were assayed by western blotting.Results: Pomolic acid suppressed the growth of A549 cells, with an half-maximal inhibitory concentration of (IC50) of 10 μM (p < 0.05). However, the IC50 of pomolic acid for normal BEAS-2B cells was 80 μM. Pomolic acid also decreased colony formation of A549 cells. At 20 μM, the percentage of A549 colonies decreased to 14 % of control. The dose-dependent cytotoxicity of pomolic acid against A549 cells was mediated via induction of apoptosis and oxidative stress. Pomolic acid treatment enhanced the expression of Bax and decreased the expression of Bcl-2 in A549 cells. Moreover, pomolic acid inhibited the migration and invasion in A549 cells in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05).Conclusion: These results indicate the potent anticancer effect of pomolic acid against human lung cancer cells. Thus, pomolic acid has promising potential as a lead molecule for the development of chemotherapy.
Determination of essential oil from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (Lamiaceae) by GC-MS, and assessment of its insecticidal properties
Authors: Wang Xiang-Dong , Shi Sheng-Li , Ma Yan-Zhi
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To isolate essential oil from the aerial parts of Scutellaria baicalensis using GS-MS, and to assess its insect-killing effect against booklice (Liposcelis bostrychophila).Methods: The oil from the aerial parts of S. baicalensis was hydro-distilled and subjected to gas chromatographic and mass spectroscopic (GC-MS) techniques. The components of the oil with insectkilling potentials were fractionated through bioactivity-guided isolation, and the isolated oil and its components were screened for their toxic effects on booklice.Results: A total of 31 components were obtained, with eugenol as the most abundant. When used to fumigate S. baicalensis, the oil and two of its constituents (myristicin and eugenol) exerted appreciable toxic effects. Moreover, the oil and its isolates manifested contact toxicity against booklice.Conclusion: These findings indicate the insecticidal benefits of the essential oil and its components against Liposcelis bostrychophila.
SLC6A14 promotes cell migration and inhibits autophagy in gastric cancer by regulating JAK2/STAT3 signaling
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Wang Jindao
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To investigate the role of solute carrier family 6-member 14 (SLC6A14) in gastric cancer (GC) tumorigenesis.Methods: The GC cell proliferation was evaluated by CCK8 and colony formation assays. Flow cytometry and wound healing assays were used to investigate cell apoptosis and migration, respectively.  Immunofluorescence was used to investigate autophagy.Results: The SLC6A14 was elevated in GC cells (p < 0.001). Overexpression of SLC6A14 increased GC cell viability and migration (p < 0.001), increased colony formation, and suppressed cell apoptosis (p < 0.05). However, knockdown of SLC6A14 inhibited GC tumorigenesis by decreasing cell viability and migration, reducing colony formation, and promoting cell apoptosis (p < 0.001). Overexpression of SLC6A14 decreased the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio. Silencing of SLC6A14 increased the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio and increased the fluorescence intensity of LC3. Overexpression of SLC6A14 increased phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3 (p < 0.001).Conclusion: Knockdown of SLC6A14 suppresses GC cell migration and proliferation and promotes autophagy through inactivation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling.
Protective effects of β-eudesmol against septic liver injury via inhibition of NF-κB signaling
Authors: Xu Qigang , Li Junjian , Chen Zhe , Mao Yefan , Tao Chonglin
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To investigate the role of β-eudesmol in septic liver injury in mice.Methods: Mice were intraperitoneally injected with 50 or 100 mg/kg β-eudesmol, and then subjected to cecal ligation and puncture for the establishment of a septic model 2 h later. Haematoxylin and eosin staining was used to evaluate histopathological changes in the liver tissues. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were employed to determine liver damage, while inflammation and oxidative stress were evaluated by ELISA.Results: Liver tissues of septic mice showed infiltration of inflammatory cells, vacuolar degeneration and obscure nucleus. However, treatment with β-eudesmol ameliorated the histopathological changes (p < 0.01). Moreover, β-eudesmol also reduced hepatocyte apoptosis, and decreased the levels of biomarkers for liver damage. The up-regulation of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 in septic mice were significantly down-regulated by β-eudesmol (p < 0.01), but increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in order to protect the mice against sepsis. In addition, β-eudesmol attenuated the cecal ligation and punctureinduced up-regulation of p-p65 in mice (p < 0.01).Conclusion: β-Eudesmol exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects in septic mice by inactivating NF-κB signaling, and thus may be useful as a potential agent in the management of sepsis.
Estrategias de supervivencia y desempeño de mipymes en un ambiente de incertidumbre
Authors: Galicia-Gopar Mariela Abigail , Mendoza-Ramírez Luis , Espinosa-Trujillo Marco Antonio
Published: August 2022

Esta investigación analiza el efecto del ambiente de incertidumbre originado por cambios en la política comercial estadounidense sobre el desempeño de las micro, pequeñas y medianas empresas (mipymes) exportadoras de mezcal de la región de los Valles Centrales de Oaxaca, en México. Particularmente, se enfoca en conocer las estrategias que los directivos de esas empresas implementaron para hacer frente a dicha situación. Para tal fin, se recabó información de 48 mipymes productoras de mezcal mediante un cuestionario estructurado, misma que es procesada a través del Paquete Estadístico para Ciencias Sociales. Según los resultados, el impacto del ambiente de incertidumbre en el desempeño de las mipymes es directo y negativo, aunque poco significativo. No obstante, la implementación de estrategias para disminuir la incertidumbre y adaptarse al ambiente intensifica ese efecto; particularmente las estrategias de estabilidad, en cuya presencia se manifiesta una asociación negativa entre la incertidumbre política-regulatoria y el desempeño empresarial.
Técnicas e instrumentos de investigación. Diseño y validación desde la perspectiva cuantitativa
Authors: Suárez P. Isabel T. , Varguillas C. Carmen Siavil , Ronceros Morales Cristhian
Published: August 2022

Técnicas e Instrumentos de Investigación. Diseño y Validación desde la Perspectiva Cuantitativa tiene como propósito responder a las preguntas planteadas por el investigador, además de generar conocimientos, habilidades y destrezas que permitan la selección de los medios idóneos confiables y útiles en el proceso de investigación. Se trata de un texto que puede ser usado como material de apoyo en cursos y seminarios de investigación, así como también, en el apoyo a la labor de tutores y tutorizados, puesto que el mismo ofrece ejercicios y ejemplos que facilitan su comprensión y aplicación en diferentes acciones de recolección y análisis de información.
Study of Mechanical Properties of Metal Matrix 150 Microns of Red
Mud
Authors: Megha .C. Soppihiremath  , R.S. Matti  , Shivanand.C. Yali
Published: August 2022

Al6061 is referring to the class of light weight high performance centric material systems. The
reinforcement in Al6061 matrix composites could be in the form continuous / discontinuous fibers or
particulates in volume fractions. This work focus on the fabrication of Al6061 Alloy matrix composites
reinforced with 0%, 12%,14%,16%,18%,20 wt% Red Mud of 150micron using stir casting. Material is
melt in furnace at 7500C temperature. After the completion of process pre –heat the casted specimen in
the furnace at 3500C temperature for a half-hour to reduce the porosity and also increase the strength.
The mechanical properties of fabricated AMCs were analyzed .i.e. tensile strength, hardness and also
microstructure study. Thus the tensile strength and hardness have improved with the increase wt% of
RM in Al6061 Alloy.
EXCITATION OF WAKE FIELDS BY A RELATIVISTIC ELECTRON BUNCH IN A POLAR SEMICONDUCTOR WAVEGUIDE
Authors: Balakirev V.A. , Onishchenko I.N.
Published: August 2022

The process of wake fields excitation by a relativistic electron bunch in polar semiconductors is studied. Cylindrical semiconductor waveguide, in which relativistic electron bunch moves along axis, is considered. It is shown that the excited wake field in the terahertz and infrared frequency ranges consists of the field of longitudinal HF and LF hybrid plasmon-phonon oscillations and the field of the HF and LF transverse polaritons, which are a set of eigen electromagnetic waves of the polar semiconductor waveguide. The spatio-temporal structure of the total excited wake field is obtained, the intensity of the excited wake waves is determined.
Estudio de factibilidad económica en una finca bananera aplicando energía alternativa: fotovoltaica
Authors: Zapata Mercedes Elizabeth Zapata , Carpio Eveligh Cecilania Prado , Alava Abrahan Rodolfo Cervantes , Márquez Javier Oswaldo Yunga , Soto Moisés Enrique Martínez , Montealegre Víctor Javier Garzón
Published: August 2022

Este desarrollo tecnológico e innovador fomenta la conciencia ambiental al contribuir al ahorro energético y mitigar los efectos del cambio climático producido por los sistemas tradicionales de producción de energía en los cuales se debate en un constante reto de sostenibilidad económica y medioambiental. El método propuesto para realizar este análisis se basa en un estudio de factibilidad en una finca bananera para la implementación de un sistema de energía fotovoltaica. Por lo descrito, la presente investigación tiene como objetivo realizar un estudio de factibilidad económica en una finca bananera aplicando energía alternativa: Fotovoltaica, con la finalidad de saber su viabilidad. Con los resultados de este proyecto se pretende dar alternativas para una posible planificación de finca autosostenible, en donde la racionalidad y ordenamiento del lugar no solo reduzca de manera económica los costos, sino que también dé alternativas ambientales. Las inversiones se pueden abaratar aprovechando los sistemas de transformación y distribución de las subestaciones existentes. Dentro del análisis de factibilidad del proyecto de la implementación del sistema fotovoltaico, es factible tener en cuenta que los paneles pueden suplir la necesidad de la demanda que se presenta dentro de la finca. Además, cabe resaltar la viabilidad del proyecto debido a los beneficios tributarios que el Gobierno otorga.
ANALISIS RASIO LIKUIDITAS, SOLVABILITAS, DAN RENTABILITAS DALAM LAPORAN KEUANGAN PT. BANK TABUNGAN NEGARA,Tbk YANG TERDAFTAR DIBURSA EFEK INDONESIA
Authors: Putri Ethika Kirana , Wahadah Tri Nur , Endarwati Endarwati , Ayudiati Citra
Published: August 2022

Economic development in a country is highly dependent on the development and real contribution of the banking sector. Financial performance measurement is very necessary in line with the level of banking competition that is increasingly advanced and developing. This study aims to gain an understanding of the condition and health position of bank BTN as one of the companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. This type of research method uses a descriptive method with a quantitative approach. The data source used is secondary data with analytical techniques using the ratio of Liquidity, Solvency and Profitability. The results of the analysis of the financial statements of the balance sheet, profit and loss and changes in equity using the CR, QR, DR, DER indicators show that the financial performance of Bank BTN in 2018-2021 is declared liquid and solvable, while the ROA and ROE indicators have decreased significantly in 2019. Bank BTN needs to utilize abandoned assets to increase profits and reduce short-term and long-term debt.
The Impact of Behavioral Nudging in Economic Theory on High School Grading Policies and Student Achievement
Authors: Parikh-Briggs Alexander , Nair Suraj , Sharma Prakriti
Published: August 2022

This research paper examines the implications of neoclassical economic theory and behavioral economic nudges on high school teachers' grading policies and the motivation and academic achievement of students. I further develop the literature in education economics to investigate various grading policies chosen by teachers and the impact on student motivation and educational outcomes. I highlight teacher preferences which include a traditional grading policy or five-point system, using the letters A-E/F. On the other hand, students prefer grading systems that evaluate what they are learning, allow for effort-based achievement, and consider classroom participation, as opposed to homework and exam scores alone. I examine the benefits and detriments of different grading policies within my high school, Menlo-Atherton High School including traditional grading, standards-based grading (SBG) and pass-fail grading.  First, I review the current literature and analyze the major differences between the approaches of neoclassical versus behavioral economics including nudges. Specifically, I examine factors that contribute to a student’s academic achievement and review the literature on grading. Second, I focus on student behavior and motivation that help to incentivize greater academic achievement. Third, I interview several teachers to characterize their grading policy and overall student motivation.  Last, I compare the student and teacher findings and the associated behavior and motivation. Overall, my findings and analysis appear to support directionally that a new educational policy focused on a standards-based grading (SBG) policy combined with various behavioral nudges impact student decisions, motivate high school students, and improve educational outcomes.
Credit Risk Analysis of Canara Bank – A Case Study
Authors: Kamath Shaila , Pai Ramesh
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Credit risk has become a serious issue in the present scenario. No banking transactions are free from credit risk. Banks can survive in the modern world only if they can manage the risk efficiently. The study is been undertaken to find out the different types of loans provided by Canara Bank and the rate of default resulting in NPA over 5 years. The author mainly considered the study on loans provided by Canara Bank and the credit risk encountered by the bank due to non-payment of loans and the interest amount on the due date. Methodology: Qualitative research is grounded on secondary data. Information is gathered through annual reports, manuals, previous bank records and balance sheets. For depth information, Focus group interactions with the manager and the staff are carried out. Findings: Better credit risk policy of the bank reduces the NPA percentage which in turn increases the profitability of the bank. Originality: The study highlights the effect of profitability due to credit risk arising out of NPAs. Paper type: Case study
"New" Ideas in Tree Care
Authors: Shigo Alex , Shortle Walter
Published: August 2022

Some controversy has arisen over statements made recently in this JOURNAL about wound dressings, cavity fillings, and boring holes in trees. Some quotations from other researchers are given here as support for the statements. Often what is considered new is really a restatement of older information. Or sound older information may be com­bined with information from recent studies to form conclu­sions that can be considered new.
Specifications and Landscaping of Utility Installations
Authors: Denno William
Published: August 2022

To keep pace with the increasing demand for electrical service within the last 10 years, Jersey Central Power & Light Company has found it necessary to construct several substations and more generating facilities. Today many municipalities have stringent requirements and ordi­nances which govern the planting and maintenance of these installations. Therefore, the Company realizes that good plant­ing and maintenance specifications, combined with profes­sional supervision, are essential to design, landscape and maintain its facilities, so that they are an asset to the Company and the communities.
University Arboricultural Education in North America
Authors: Andresen John
Published: August 2022

In 1975, the Urban Forestry Committee of the International Society of Arboriculture made a survey that revealed ar­boriculturally oriented courses were offered in at least 52 North American University Horticultural Schools. Titles of these courses as well as related curricula are listed. Com­ments are also given on arboricultural education in general. It is the author's opinion that current and planned arboricultural educational opportunities are more than adequate to meet the educational and training needs of commercial, municipal, and utility arboricultural management organizations. Research and development activities, however, should be strengthened to support educational and management programmes.
Myxozoan Research Forum 2021 - the ‘MyxoMixer’: Advances, methods, and problems yet to be solved in myxozoan research
Authors: Holland J.W. , Holzer A.S.
Published: August 2022

Myxozoans are morphologically reduced and genetically derived cnidarian parasites that have acquired annelids and bryozoans as their primary hosts, and vertebrates, predominantly fish, as their secondary hosts. Several myxozoans are known pathogens impacting freshwater and marine aquaculture production systems, with some species classified as emerging pathogens promoted by climate change processes. Despite the obvious need, there is currently no general legalized treatment or vaccine for myxozoans. Solutions are delayed due to quirks in the biological and molecular characteristics of myxozoans, and by the lack of tools and consensus in research approaches used to tackle the most economically impactful myxozoans.
Effect of Antibiotics and Glycerol on Improving Bacteriophage Detection and Enumeration
Authors: Türe M. , Cebeci A. , Aygür E. , Balcı F. , Çalışkan N. , Polat E.K.
Published: August 2022

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are a growing issue in aquaculture, and phage therapy offers an alternative approach to the use of antibiotics. Phages for phage therapy can be isolated, identified and enumerated using a Double-Layer Agar (DLA) technique. While some phages form large and well-defined plaques that can be enumerated when plated with the DLA technique, some produce small and turbid plaques that are difficult to detect and count. A phage, Aeromonas phages-T65, was isolated from Aeromonas hydrophila, which formed small and turbid plaques making it hard to count. The use of antibiotics and chemicals have been suggested as a way to increase plaque size for easy detection and enumeration of phage plaques. To increase the plaque size of Aeromonas phages-T65, antibiotics and glycerol were added to the culture media, and tested at different concentrations. Application of penicillin-streptomycin and/or glycerol showed an increase in plaque size and the biggest improvement in plaque size were observed using either 40 U/μl penicillin-streptomycin or a 5 % glycerol in the top agar layer of the DLA technique. These findings suggest that such modifications could be implemented into the standard DLA overlay method to investigate new Aeromonas phages for the development of phage therapy against Aeromonas spp. in aquaculture.
Investigation of Corrosion Inhibitor Adsorption on Mica and Mild Steel Using Electrochemical Atomic Force Microscopy and Molecular Simulations
Authors: Wang Huiru , Sharma Sumit , Pailleret Alain , Brown Bruce , Nešić Srdjan
Published: August 2022

Electrochemical atomic force microscopy (EC-AFM) experiments, including simultaneous linear polarization resistance (LPR) tests and in situ AFM imaging, under a CO2 atmosphere, were performed to investigate the adsorption characteristics and inhibition effects of a tetradecyldimethylbenzylammonium corrosion inhibitor model compound. When the inhibitor bulk concentration was at 0.5 critical micelle concentration (CMC), in situ AFM results indicated nonuniform tilted monolayer formation on the mica surface and EC-AFM results indicated partial corrosion of the UNS G10180 steel surface. At 2 CMC, a uniform tilted bilayer or perpendicular monolayer was detected on mica, and corrosion with UNS G10180 steel was uniformly retarded. Consistently, simultaneous LPR tests showed that corrosion rates decreased as the inhibitor concentration increased until it reached the surface saturation value (1 and 2 CMC). Molecular simulations have been performed to study the formation of the inhibitor layer and its molecular-level structure. Simulation results showed that at the initiation of the adsorption process, islands of adsorbed inhibitor molecules appear on the surface. These islands grow and coalesce to become a complete self-assembled layer.
Deep Learning-based ECG Classification on Raspberry PI using a Tensorflow Lite Model based on PTB-XL Dataset
Authors: Sharma Kushagra , Eskicioglu Rasit
Published: August 2022

The number of IoT devices in healthcare is expected to rise sharply due to increased demand since the COVID-19 pandemic. Deep learning and IoT devices are being employed to monitor body vitals and automate anomaly detection in clinical and non-clinical settings. Most of the current technology requires the transmission of raw data to a remote server, which is not efficient for resource-constrained IoT devices and embedded systems. Additionally, it is challenging to develop a machine learning model for ECG classification due to the lack of an extensive open public database. To an extent, to overcome this challenge PTB-XL dataset has been used. In this work, we have developed machine learning models to be deployed on Raspberry Pi. We present an evaluation of our TensorFlow Model with two classification classes. We also present the evaluation of the corresponding TensorFlow Lite FlatBuffers to demonstrate their minimal run-time requirements while maintaining acceptable accuracy.
Developing Algorithms for Image Steganography and Increasing the Capacity Depending on Choosing the Best Pixels
Authors: khaled Mayar , H. Abu El-Atta Ahmed
Published: August 2022

Steganography is a vital technique for transferring confidential information via an insecure network. In addition, digital images are used as a cover to communicate sensitive information. The Least Significant Bit (LSB) method is one of the simplest ways to insert secret data into a cover image. In this paper, the secret text is compressed twice by an Arithmetic coding algorithm, and the resulting secret bits are hidden in the cover pixels of the image corresponding to the pixels of each of the following three methods, one of three methods is used in each experiment: The first method, the edges of the image are modified to increase the number of edges, in the second method the lighter-colored regions are selected, and in the third method, the two methods are combined together to increase security and keep the secret message unrecognized. Hiding in each of the previous methods is done by using the LSB technique in the last 2-bit. The correction approach is used to increase the stego image's imperceptibility. The experimental results show that with an average message size of 29.8 kb, the average Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) for the second proposed (Light regions) method equals 62.76 dB and for the third proposed (Edge and region) method equals 62.72 dB, which is a reasonable result when compared to other steganographic techniques.