bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biodegradable trimethyl chitosan nanofiber mats as bioabsorbable dressings for wound closure and healing
Authors: Anisiei Alexandru , Andreica Bianca-Iustina , Mititelu-Tartau Liliana , Coman Corneliu G. , Bilyy Rostyslav , Bila Galyna , Rosca Irina , Sandu Andreea-Isabela , Amler Evžen , Marin Luminita
Published: April 2023

Background Quaternary chitosan based fibers have emerged as promising biomaterials for tissue engineering, wound healing and hygiene related textiles, but their in vivo application is restricted by the lack of biodegradability of the synthetic polymers used as co-spinning agents. Herein, we report fully biodegradable chitosan/N,N,N-trimethyl chitosan (TMC) nanofibers prepared via electrospinning, when using poly(ethylene glycol) as sacrificial additive, as potential bioabsorbable wound dressings.Methods The composition and morphology of the fiber mats was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetric analysis, wide angle X-ray diffraction, polarized optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Their properties required for in vivo application, such as behavior in moisture media (dynamic vapor sorption, swelling and enzymatic degradation tests), muco- and bio-adhesive character, mechanical properties and antimicrobial activity were measured. The in vitro biocompatibility on normal human dermal fibroblasts was investigated in line with standards for biomedical devices and in vivo acute toxicity and biocompatibility was assessed by monitoring hematological, biochemical and immunological profile on Wistar rats. Wound closure and healing was studied on burn wound healing models in rats.Results The combination of chitosan with its TMC derivative into nanofibers enabled high swelling ability and fluid exchange, biodegradability rate controlled by the TMC content and pH of media, muco- and bio-adhesive character, mechanical properties similar to skin tissue, strong antimicrobial activity against relevant pathogens and in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility. Moreover, their subcutaneous implantation in rats revealed in vivo biodegradation and lack of toxicity. As a proof of concept, the fiber mats application on burn wound healing models in rats showed wound closure and active healing, with fully restoration of epithelia.Conclusions The use of poly(ethylene glycol) with double role, electrospinning and sacrificial additive, is a straight pathway to the obtaining of chitosan/TMC nanofibers. The combination of chitosan with its N,N,N-trimethyl chitosan derivative into nanofiber mats provide a bioabsorbable bandage which favors rapid wound closure and fully restoration of the skin tissue.
Recreational disturbance of river sediments during baseflow deteriorates microbial water quality
Authors: Pattis Isabelle , Moriarty Elaine , Anderson Juliet , McIntosh Angus , Gilpin Brent
Published: April 2023

Recreational water quality of rivers is typically assessed by microbial analysis of indicator organisms such as Escherichia coli and enterococci in samples collected directly from the water column, implying that risk to public health comes from free-floating microorganisms. In New Zealand, the Recreational Water Quality Guidelines apply certain E. coli concentration thresholds to categorize results into ‘meet guidelines’ (≤ 260 cfu E. coli 100 mL− 1), ‘alert level’ and ‘action level’ (≥ 550 cfu E. coli 100 mL− 1). The impairment of water quality due to resuspended riverbed sediment under flood conditions has been widely recognized. However, the potential risks posed by sediment-linked microorganisms associated with river recreational activities under base flow are less appreciated. We evaluated the water quality of 30 rivers in Canterbury, New Zealand, during base flow conditions prior to and after artificially stirring the sediment. Bacterial and protozoan indicators, pathogens, water quality and land use in surrounding areas were examined. While 71% of water samples (n = 64) met New Zealand Recreational Water guidelines prior to stirring, only 39% of samples (n = 35) met the guidelines after stirring. E. coli levels increased by 110% or more following sediment stirring. Campylobacter were detected in every river at least once, and increases were observed following stirring. We conclude that sediment-associated microbes become suspended by recreational activities and may pose a considerable risk to river users. To ensure public health is protected authorities should assess microorganisms in both sediment and water samples to rate the microbiological risk of recreational water use.
Psychobiological stress in South Sudan: Post-traumatic stress symptoms and emotion dysregulation during chronic political conflict
Authors: Lee Kellie Ann , Beranbaum Sarah , Khedari-DePierro Vivian , Yates Ellen H , Yacevich Ilya , Shankar Anita , Enosa Condition Emmanuel , D'Andrea Wendy
Published: April 2023

BackgroundMass conflict and related displacement in South Sudan has created a significant mental health need, however extant research on the impact of conflict is limited among South Sudanese people and has predominantly relied on Western-developed self report measures.MethodA total of 195 South Sudanese adults who work in both civil society and government leadership positions participated in a psychophysiological assessment of heart rate variability and self-reported PTSD and emotion dysregulation symptoms to participation in the Trauma-Informed Community Empowerment (TICE) Framework, developed and implemented by the Global Trauma Project (GTP). We utilized measures of heart rate variability to determine sympathetic and parasympathetic activity, both of which may be associated with difficulties responding to stressors as well as long-term physical health morbidity and mortality.ResultsFindings suggest pervasive difficulties in emotion regulation abilities among all participants and, consistent with the existing literature on PTSD in South Sudan, over a third of participants meet the clinical cut-off for PTSD. The majority of participants’ physiological profiles indicate unexpected levels of parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system activity given age and gender norms, demonstrating a sample with serious health risk. Participants within healthy parasympathetic norms report greater disturbance in emotion regulation abilities, while those in and above increasing concern levels report less distress, suggesting that parasympathetic activity may facilitate emotion regulation, albeit at risk of “overcompensating”.ConclusionsThese results demonstrate the feasibility and utility of using a multimethod approach to assessment in a community-based environment and highlight the psychophysiological burden of chronic socio-political strife.
Prevalence and risk factors associated with hepatitis B and C infection among patients with Non- Communicable Diseases in three rural Rwandan districts: A retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Musafiri Tumusime , Kamali Innocent , Kayihura Casmille , Gakuru Jean Paix , Nyirahabihirwe Francoise , Nizeyimana Esdras , Kandamage Pilar , Habinshuti Placide , Sekagarura Raymond , Makuza Jean Damascene , Karema Nadine , Serumondo Janvier , Ntakirutimana Theoneste , Ndahimana Jean d'Amour , Barnhart Dale A
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Rwanda’s Hepatitis C elimination campaign has relied on mass screening campaigns. An alternative “micro-elimination” strategy, which focuses on specific segments of the population such as non-communicable disease (NCD) patients, could be a more efficient approach to identifying patients and linking them to care.
Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study used routine data collected during a targeted screening campaign among NCD patients in Kirehe, Kayonza, and Burera districts of Rwanda and patients receiving oncology services from the Butaro District Hospital. The campaign used rapid diagnostic tests to screen for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and Hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV). We reported prevalence and 95% confidence intervals for HBsAg and anti-HCV, assessed for associations between patients’ clinical programs and hepatitis B and C, and reported outcomes along the cascade of care for the two diseases.
Results: out of 7,622 were NCD patients, 3398 (45.9%) of whom self-reported a prior hepatitis screening. Prevalence of HBsAg was 2.0% (95% CI: 1.7%-2.3%) and anti-HCV was 6.7% (95% CI: 6.2%-7.3%). The prevalence of HBsAg was significantly higher among patients younger than 40 years (2.4%). Increased age was significantly associated with anti-HCV (12.0% among patients ≥70 years). Of the 148 individuals who screened positive for HbsAg, 124 had viral load results returned, 102 had detectable viral loads (median viral load: 451 UI/mL), 9 were eligible for treatment, and three were linked to care of the 507 individuals who screened positive for anti-HCV, 468 had their viral load results returned (median viral load: 1,130,000 UI/mL), 304 had detectable viral loads, and 230 were linked to care.
Conclusion: Anti-HCV prevalence among Rwandan patients with NCD was high, likely due to their older age. Findings of this study indicated that HBsAg was high concentrated among NCD patients below 40 years maybe as consequence of their sexual behavior at late adolescent age. Repeated screening and elevated hepatitis risk among repeat screeners suggests suboptimal linkage to hepatitis treatment. NCD-HCV co-infected patients had high HCV viral loads and may be at risk of poor outcomes from hepatitis C. Hepatitis C micro-elimination campaigns among NCD patients are a feasible and acceptable strategy to enhance case detection in this high-prevalence population with elevated viral loads and may support linkage to care for hepatitis C among elderly populations.
Menstrual Health and Hygiene Amongst Adolescent Girls and Women of Reproductive Age: A Cross Sectional Study From Odisha, India
Authors: Panda Nishisipa , Desaraju Shyama , Panigrahy Rudra Prasad , Ghosh Upasona , Saxena Shipra , Singh Pratibha , Panda Bhuputra
Published: April 2023

Background- Menstruation is a major physiological change in a woman's life, but lack of knowledge, poor practices, socio-cultural barriers, poor access to products and their improper disposal have significant consequences on health, dignity and well-being of women and adolescent girls.
Objectives-This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices related to menstrual health and hygiene amongst females of 10-49 years of age; explore the experiences and challenges of women during menstruation; and identify the key predictors of healthy menstrual health and hygiene.
Methods- Using a cross-sectional study design, we adopted a mixed methods approach for data collection. For quantitative household survey, a total of 921 respondents were selected from three districts of Odisha. Qualitative findings through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews supplemented the survey findings and helped to identify the barriers affecting good menstrual practices. Epi data version 2.5 and R 4.2.2 was used for data entry and data analysis, respectively. Descriptive statistics was used to calculate proportion, mean and standard deviation; Chi square test was used to measure the association between categorical variables. Bivariate and multivariate logistics analyses were done to identify predictors of healthy menstrual health and hygiene.
Results-For 74.3% respondents, mothers were the primary source of information; about 61% respondents were using sanitary pad. The mean age at menarche was 12.9 years and almost 46% of respondents did not receive any information about menstruation before menarche. Lower age and education up to higher secondary level or above had statistically significant associations with the knowledge about menstruation. Age, caste, mother’s education, sanitation facility, and availability of water were found to be strongly associated with good menstrual hygiene practices.
Conclusion-Traditional beliefs regarding menstruation still persists at the community level. Educating mothers, increasing awareness about safe menstrual hygiene, providing adequate water and sanitation facilities and ensuring proper disposal of menstruation products need priority attention.
Controlling factors of latitudinal distribution of dissolved organic matter in the upper layers of the Indian Ocean
Authors: Shigemitsu Masahito , Sasaoka Kosei , Wakita Masahide , Yokokawa Taichi , Hashioka Taketo , Arulananthan K. , Murata Akihiko
Published: April 2023

We studied chromophoric (CDOM) and fluorescent (FDOM) dissolved organic matter (DOM), and dissolved organic carbon in surface waters to determine the factors controlling the geographical distribution of DOM along two meridional transects in the Indian Ocean. For CDOM, we calculated the absorption coefficients, spectral slope, and absorption coefficient ratio from the observed absorption spectra. For FDOM, we calculated the biological (BIX) and humification (HIX) indices from the excitation emission matrices (EEMs); parallel factor analysis of the EEMs identified three fluorescent components, i.e., two humic-like and one protein-like. Using these DOM parameters, a factor analysis extracted fewer latent variables than the observed variables to account for the geographical distributions. We obtained three factors (F1, F2, and F3) which explained ~ 84% of the variance in the observed data. From the factor loadings, F1, F2, and F3 were the effects of net primary production-derived DOM and its horizontal transport, photodegradation, and vertical transport by physical processes. We characterized seven marine biogeochemical provinces by factor scores. F1 scores gradually decreased from the northernmost to the Antarctic province, with a small maximum around the subtropical front. F2 scores were highest in the subtropical province and decreased in both the northward and southward directions. F3 scores were high in the Antarctic and northernmost provinces, and lowest in the subtropical province. Only BIX was insufficiently explained by these factors. BIX was highest in the northern part of the subtropical province, where photodegradation of DOM was the most intense. This suggested that the interaction between photodegradation and biodegradation of DOM occurs in the subtropical province.
Solana a new blockchain revolution for Indian Agri products using Cloud based wallet
Authors: Premchandran Divya , Batchu Chalamayya
Published: April 2023

Agriculture is a wide industry in India and the supply chain for the same is very complex. Even though farming, distributing and selling Agri products are quite evolved. Still, Post-harvest dubiety is the biggest issue faced by the Indian agriculture market. Hence, farmers are never benefiting from fault pricing, improper sorting and grading of farmed products, Lack of proper storage facility and middleman hoarding of vegetables to manipulate rates in the market. These issues will take actual vegetables to reach consumers more time and hence quality and freshness of these products getting compromised. Blockchain technology can revolutionize these pertaining challenges in agriculture. It can help to provide quality Agri products from farmer to consumer. This paper examines the Solana blockchain enabled model in Indian farming. Solana provides the fastest blockchain ecosystem and follows Proof Of History which is more secure with less transaction cost. The framework proposed is to overcome current issues faced by supply chain in Indian agriculture through cost effective manner.
Shedding Light on Rechargeable Na/Cl2 Battery
Authors: Dai Hongjie , Zhu Guanzhou , Liang Peng , Huang Cheng-Liang , Wu Shu-Chi , Huang Cheng-Chia , Li Yuan-Yao , Jiang Shi-Kai , Huang Wei-Hsiang , Li Jiachen , Wang Feifei , Hwang Bing Joe
Published: April 2023

Advancing new ideas of rechargeable batteries represents an important path to meeting the ever increasing energy storage needs. Recently we showed rechargeable sodium/chlorine (Na/Cl2) (or lithium/chlorine Li/Cl2) batteries that used a Na (or Li) metal negative electrode, a microporous amorphous carbon nanosphere (aCNS) positive electrode and an electrolyte containing dissolved AlCl3 and fluoride additives in thionyl chloride (SOCl2)1-2. The main battery redox reaction involved conversion between NaCl and Cl2 trapped in the carbon positive electrode, delivering a cyclable capacity of up to 1200 mAh g-1 (based on positive electrode mass) at a ~ 3.5 V discharge voltage1-2. Here, we discovered by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) that upon charging a Na/Cl2 battery, chlorination of carbon in the positive electrode occurred to form C-Cl accompanied by molecular Cl2 infiltrating the porous aCNS, consistent with Cl2 probed by mass spectrometry. Synchrotron X-ray diffraction observed the development of graphitic ordering in the initially amorphous aCNS under battery charging when the carbon matrix was oxidized/chlorinated and infiltrated with Cl2. The C-Cl, Cl2 species and graphitic ordering were reversible upon discharge, accompanied by NaCl formation. The results revealed redox conversion between NaCl and Cl2, reversible graphitic ordering/amorphourization of carbon through battery charge/discharge, and for the first time probed trapped Cl2 in porous carbon by XPS.
Does symbiotic relationship between Hydra viridissima and photoautotrophic alga provide evolutionary advantage in securing the DNA against damage by cytotoxic or genotoxic mode of action of environmental stressors?
Authors: Želježić Davor , Kovačev Goran , Matijević Ana , Korać Petra , Mihalić Katarina
Published: April 2023

Symbiosis is an evolutionary strategy that provides biological advantages. The most complex cooperation between symbiotic organisms is endosymbiosis, as it is the symbiosis between green hydra (Hydra viridissima Pallas, 1766) and unicellular photoautotrophic alga. We aimed to evaluate whether this symbiotic cooperation bestows higher resistance to stressors, in terms of preservation of DNA integrity, compared to free-living brown hydra (Hydra oligactis Pallas, 1766). Hydras were exposed to herbicide norflurazon at 2×10− 7 or 2×10− 6 mol/L and UV-B light of 254 nm, 0.023 mW/cm separately or simultaneously. By alkaline comet assay the level of primary DNA damage and by fluorescent staining apoptosis and necrosis were determined. Norflurazon at 2×10− 6 mol/L significantly increased comet assay descriptors in brown hydra compared to negative control (6.17 ± 0.6µm and 5.2 ± 1.7% vs. 2.9 ± 0.2µm and 1.2 ± 0.2%). The frequency of apoptotic and necrotic cells was significantly elevated either, being higher in brown hydra (25.7 ± 3.5% and 8.2 ± 0.2%) than green hydra (20.3 ± 2.5% and 2.8 ± 0.2%). UV-B irradiation induced significant DNA damage in brown hydra only (13.5 ± 1.0µm, 4.1 ± 1.0%). Simultaneous exposure to UV-B light and norflurazon led to synergistic increase in intensity of adverse effects. Norflurazon at 2×10− 7 mol/L combined with UV-B light induced significantly increased DNA lesion-level in brown hydra (15.8 ± 3.1%) and at concentration of 2×10− 6 mol/L in both species (brown: 15.0 ± 2.6%, green: 22.0 ± 3.0%). Cytotoxicity and increased hedgehog nucleoids frequency were recorded, significantly more pronounced in brown (78.3 ± 9.4% and 56.4 ± 6.0%) compared to green hydra (34.7 ± 2.5% and 24.2 ± 0.6%). We proved that evolutionary established symbiotic cooperation may contribute to higher resistance to cyto/genotoxic stressors.
The role of social network diversity for self-perceptions of aging in later life
Authors: Meyer-Wyk Frauke , Richter Adrian , Wurm Susanne
Published: April 2023

While the link between self-perceptions of aging (SPA) and healthy aging is well established, less is known about how SPA relate to social factors. The present study investigated whether higher social network diversity is associated with more gain-related SPA and less loss-related SPA and whether this association is moderated by chronological age. We examined data from the German Ageing Survey of 2008 (DEAS; N = 6,205, 40–85 years, 49.5% female). Network diversity was assessed as the number of social roles in an individual’s social network. Three dimensions of SPA were measured with the Aging-Related Cognitions Scale (AgeCog; ongoing development, social losses, physical losses). We conducted multiple linear regression models and tested for a moderator effect of chronological age using an interaction term of age and network diversity. Results showed that at higher ages older adults with higher network diversity reported more gain-related SPA in the dimension of ongoing development than those with less diverse networks, supporting a moderating effect of age. Loss-related SPA in the dimension of social losses showed a small positive association with network diversity while loss-oriented SPA in the dimension of physical losses did not appear to be related to network diversity. Age had no relevance for either relationship. The present study adds to evidence on the role of social relationships for SPA. Our findings suggest that in certain dimensions and partly depending on age, social network diversity is both related to more gain-related and more loss-related SPA.
A comparative study of Chilli (Capsicum Annuum) on biomass production by phosphorus application through micro-dose placement, broadcast, and optimized seedling Root-dip in P-enriched slurry
Authors: Kalidas-Singh Sagolshem , Swain Sanatan Kumar , Thakuria Dwipendra , Puyam Anita , Maimom Sonia , Homeshwari-Devi Mayanglambam , Huidrom Sangeeta
Published: April 2023

A sustainable method of phosphorus (P) fertilizer application is needed to support crop production, due to the limited P reserves and negative environmental impact caused by excessive P application in agriculture. This study proposes a comparison of P management that enhance P nutrition of Chilli seedlings (variety: Arka Khyati) through seedling root-dipping (SRD) into P-enriched slurry (SSP-amended soil slurry; pH of 8.1), micro-dose placement (MDP; drill and place closer to plant root), and full dose placement by broadcasting (FD). In SRD method, seedlings were dipped in three different P concentrations (0, 50, and 100 mg P2O5 kg-1) for varying durations (0, ½, 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours) and then transplanted into pots, along with the MDP and FD treatments, resulting in 15 total treatments with 5 replications. The amount of P adhered to the seedling roots in the SRD treatments was 21 and 90 times lower than that P applied in MDP and FD treatments, respectively. The best performance in biomass production was observed in seedlings dipped in 100 mg P2O5 kg-1 for 2 hours in SRD, (dipping in higher concentrations with longer durations resulting in plant death). Overall, the comparison showed a 52%, 178%, and 293% increase in biomass production compared to the control for FD, MDP, and SRD, respectively. P-use and -recovery efficiency followed the same trend. Further multilocational trials are necessary to assess this method, and it is recommended to apply a reduced amount of P to maintain a balanced of native P in the soil.
Integrated optimization of train stop planning and seat allocation for high-speed railways based on active management for dynamic demand
Authors: Li Xiaojuan , Fu Zefan , Cao Zhichao , Yang Li , Li Chengbin , Yan Zhenying
Published: April 2023

Focusing on dynamic demand for high-speed railways, demand management has its appeal in transforming its attention from supply-driven to on-demand. Active management involving with train stop planning and seat allocation is a key issue at the planning level. Concentrating on multi-type demand exhibitions, this paper designs four active demand management methods for different demand types, i.e., (i) a method determined by the mean value, (ii) a method based on the probability of passenger flow in a time period, (iii) a multi-scenario method based on each day, and (iv) a method as per similar passenger flow combinations, respectively. An integrated optimization model of stop planning, and seat allocation is constructed with the objective of minimizing the difference between demand and supply, the number of the trains and the cost of train stops. The number of train stops, carrying capacity, user satisfaction degree, and the seat attendance rate are taken into consideration. An algorithm combined particle swarm with CPLEX is proposed to handle this large-scale linear programming problem. A real case of different demand scenarios based on the Hohhot-Beijing high-speed railway in China verifies that the active demand management methods are feasible for different demand-type scenarios. The results indicate that the integrated optimization can be justified in many cases with mixed load patterns. Compared with the original scheme, the optimized train stop planning reduces the total number of trains by 23.2% and increases the seat attendance rate by 33.8%, respectively.
Quantum and Experimental Studies on the Adsorption Efficiency of Oyster Shells Based CaO Nanoparticles (CaONPO) Toward the Removal of MethyleneBlue Dye (MBD) from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Kelle Henrietta Ijeoma , Ogoko Emeka Chima , Eddy Nnabuk Okon
Published: April 2023

The significance of nanoparticles in environmental remediation of water pollution is attributed to their exceptional properties such as thermal stability, particle size, porosity, surface area and other properties. In this study, oyster shells were used as a precursor to synthesized CaO nanoparticles due to their high CaCO3 content. Sol gel method was employed. The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited strong thermal stability beyond 900 °C and exhibited \({}_{max}\), BET surface area, BET volume and mesoporous pore dimension of 281 nm, 10.395 m2/g, 369.30 m3 and 2.88 nm respectively. The Langmuir maximum adsorption capacity was 3333.33 mg/g and the adsorption process showed strong dependence on the period of contact, temperature, pH, initial concentration of the dye and ionic strength. The adsorption of the dye best fitted pseudo second order kinetic with boundary layer diffusion being the rate-limiting step. Perfect fitness was also observed for the Langmuir adsorption isotherm while two and three-parameters isotherms such as Redlich Peterson and Sipps were also useful in describing the adsorption behaviour of the dye. Based on the evaluated free energy of adsorption and adsorption energies, the mechanism of physical adsorption was proposed. Theoretical parameters derived from quantum chemical calculations indicated strong agreement with experimental values. The adsorbent can be re-used after washing and recalcination.
Prospects of food taxes for planetary health: a systematic review of modeling studies
Authors: Mészáros Ágota , Dósa Norbert , Péterfi Anna , Horváth Krisztián , Szarvas Zsófia , Balogh Jeremiás Máté , Vokó Zoltán
Published: April 2023

BackgroundFiscal policies on food can effectively fight the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and climate change. These policies should be modeled in advance to see the implications for the environment and health. The aim of this study was to analyze these modeling methodologies.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review, searching Scopus and Pubmed for studies that modeled fiscal policies on the food groups targeted by the EAT-Lancet Commission and examined their health or environmental outcomes. We then double-screened the records, and extracted data on modeling methods from the 55 included studies. The review protocol was registered on PROSPERO (2022 CRD42022291945).ResultsThe most frequently modeled interventions were fruit and vegetable subsidies and carbon taxes on food. One study also included a consumer education campaign to enhance the effect of fiscal policy. The outcomes are highly sensitive to consumption change and price elasticities. The stability of the amount of diet consumed was modeled 6 times with calorie stability, and twice with dietary weight stability. The outcomes were also sensitive to diseases and the system boundaries of environmental impacts. None of the studies modeled the health effects of environmental outcomes.ConclusionsWe did not find a model that covered all the relevant aspects of the issue. Some parts were missing from all the included models. It is advisable to model the stability of the amount of diet consumed, either by keeping the weight of the diet stable or by taking a more conservative approach and keeping the consumed calories stable. A fiscal policy is more equitable if a tax and a subsidy are combined to be less regressive. Additionally, an informational campaign as a complement could improve effectiveness. The included diseases and environmental boundaries are preferable to be broad to have more valid outcomes on this complex issue. A more comprehensive understanding of fiscal policies would allow us to better anticipate the impact of our actions and inactions and thus could lead to more sophisticated measures taken by policymakers.
An Exploration of General Practitioners’ and General Practice Nurses’ Opinions on Physical Activity Promotion amongst Patients
Authors: Kelliher Sean , Dowling Maura , Foley Sean Gerard , gupta ananya
Published: April 2023

Chronic disease rates are increasing globally, this is partially attributable to the global epidemic of physical inactivity. Physical activity promotion in primary care is regarded as the best approach for combating chronic disease. This study investigated the common beliefs and opinions among general practitioners and nurses on promoting physical activity to patients in Ireland. This research took a mixed-methods approach consisting of an online questionnaire (n=79) and semi-structured interviews (n=8). Lack of time, expertise, cohesiveness, referral pathways, and exercise professionals were the main barriers to physical activity promotion experienced. A small minority (7.6%) of participants were trained in exercise prescription, and 40.5% had knowledge of a local exercise professional. Furthermore, the research indicated that 70.2% of GPs and 86.4% of GP nurses did not provide an exercise referral. Physical activity promotion in primary care needs a cohesive approach. Involving an exercise professional is crucial to help facilitate to aid physical activity promotion.
Kaempferol induces DNA damage, cell apoptosis and cell cycle arresting by promoting DNA-PKcs ubiquitination degradation in Bel-7402/5-Fu cells
Authors: Liang Damin , Cheng Xiaoju , Zhang Ziping , Yang Zhengjiu , Li Tingchao , Tian Peng
Published: April 2023

Purpose: Drug resistance is the main cause of chemotherapy failure in hepatocellular carcinoma. Kaempferol (KAE) is a natural flavonoid compound, which has a certain chemo-sensitivity enhancement effect. However, the potential molecular mechanism of KAE reversing drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma remains unclear.
Methods: RT-qPCR was used to evaluate the interference effect of siDNA-PKcs. RT-qPCR and WB assays were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of DNA damage repair related genes (γ-H2AX, DNA-PKcs, Artemis) and drug delivery pump gene (P-gp). Flow cytometry was used to detect cell cycle and apoptosis.
Results: In this study, we found that KAE significantly increased the mRNA and protein levels of γ-H2AX, and down-regulated the mRNA and protein levels of DNA-PKcs and Artemis, on the other hand, it also down-regulated the mRNA and protein levels of P-gp, and ultimately jointly promoted the DNA damage, cell apoptosis, and cell cycle arresting in the G2/M phase of drug-resistant Bel-7402/5-Fu cells. Mechanically, KAE mainly promoted the degradation of DNA-PKcs through ubiquitin proteasome pathway, down-regulated the protein level of DNA-PKcs, inhibited the DNA-PKcs/Artemis pathway, promoted DNA damage, induced cell apoptosis and cell cycle arresting.
Conclusions: KAE may be used as a sensitizer for clinical treatment of chemotherapy resistance of HCC, and inhibition of DNA-PKcs may also become a new strategy and target for the treatment of HCC.
Dose-volume parameters of MRI-defined active bone marrow spared predict hematologic toxicity in pelvic malignancies patients undergoing radiotherapy: a cohort study
Authors: Gao Ting , Wei Liqun , Jiang Li , Ma Shanshan , Zhang Wei , Zhang Yong , Wu Fang
Published: April 2023

Background The objective of this investigation is to evaluate the superiority of dose-volume parameters relying on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-defined active bone marrow (ABM) over those based on total bone marrow (TBM)contoured via CT in the prediction of hematologic toxicity (HT) occurrence among patients with pelvic malignancies undergoing radiotherapy.
Methods and materials The clinical data of 116 patients with pelvic malignancies treated with pelvic radiotherapy were analyzed retrospectively. The statistical significance between TBM and ABM dose-volume measures was assessed through the utilization of either Student's t-test or Wilcoxon signed rank test. Furthermore, logistic and linear regression models were employed to analyze the correlation between dose-volume parameters and HT occurrence in pelvic ABM and TBM. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to compare predictors of grade 2 or higher HT (HT2+).
Results There were significant differences in dosimetric parameters between ABM and TBM. Logistic regression analysis showed that ABM V5, ABM V10, ABM V15, ABM V20, and TBM V5 were significantly associated with the occurrence of HT2+ in pelvic malignancies. Linear regression analysis showed that ABM V5, ABM V10, and ABM V15 were significantly associated with white blood cell (WBC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC), and hemoglobin (Hb) nadir. ABM V5, ABM V10, ABM V15 and ABM V30 were predictive of HT2+.
Conclusion More accurate prediction of HT in patients receiving pelvic radiotherapy can be achieved by relying on dose-volume parameters of MRI-based ABM. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm this.
Herbal medicine (Curcuma longa) inspired volatile compounds as potential inhalants against SARS-CoV-2: An in-silico strategy and modeling study
Authors: Jayashankar J. , Punith M. S. , Nanjundaswamy S. , Karthik C. S. , Mallu P. , Ramalingam R. Jothi , Karnan Muthusamy , Arjun Kowsalya , Dinakarkumar Yuvaraj
Published: April 2023

From the metabolite ecology (KNapSAcK) and herbs medicinal plants, phytochemistry, and therapeutics (IMPPAT) databases, the phytoconstituents from the herbal natural inhalant (turmeric) were taken. More samples of the phytoconstituents that adhere to drug likeness limits were obtained for in-silico research. To identify SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors, the Drug Likeness and ADMET experiments were used to screen volatile molecules from natural medicinal inhalants. The seven chemicals that make up turmeric all adhere to the ADMET restrictions and interact well with the Covid-19 proteins. Two active molecules are predicted by molecular docking studies to have strong binding affinity with the Sars-CoV-2 proteins (6LU7 and 6M0J). Based on this study 2 phytochemicals from turmeric, they have good binding affinity. DFT computing is applied to elucidate the molecular characteristics, and the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) is generated to analyses the distribution of charges. These substances could be further subjected to in-vitro studies to evaluate their efficacy against Covid-19.
Assessment of satisfaction with antiretroviral drugs and the need for long-acting injectable medicines among people living with HIV in Japan and its correlative determinants: a prospective multicenter cross-sectional observational study
Authors: Ishihara Masashi , Higasa Shinichi , Tsukiji Mariko , Kunimoto Yusuke , Nobori Kazuko , Kimura Takeshi , Onishi Kenta , Yamamoto Yuki , Haruta Kyohei , Kashiwabara Yohei , Fujii Kenji , Shimabukuro Shota , Watanabe Daichi , Tsurumi Hisashi , Suzuki Akio
Published: April 2023

Background:Long-acting injectable formulations for HIV infection have been approved and are now available in Japan. Although not currently recommended as first-line drugs in Japanese or overseas guidelines, use of such formulations may increase, in accordance with patient conditions and preference. We determine the level of satisfaction with current anti-HIV drugs and analyzed the preferences of patients who favor long-acting injectable drugs based on their satisfaction level with the present anti-HIV drugs.Methods:People living with HIV (PLWH) who had received antiretroviral therapy (ART) for at least one month and consented to the study between 1 April and 31 December 2021 were included in a survey conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. The content of the survey included satisfaction with seven items (tablet size, ease and feeling when taking the medicine, color, taste, portability, daily oral therapy, and co-payment) related to the anti-HIV drugs they were taking and their need for future drugs (dosage form, frequency of dosing, long-acting injectable, etc.). In addition, factors related to the need for long-acting injectable medications were analyzed with regard to the relationship with satisfaction with anti-HIV drugs.Results:Overall, 667 patients available for analysis were included in this study. Satisfaction with anti-HIV drugs was highest with regard to "co-payment" and lowest with "daily oral therapy". Regarding the need for long-acting injectable medications, logistic regression analysis indicated that tablet size and daily oral therapy were significant predictors of patient preference for a once-every-eight-weeks intramuscular formulation in terms of their requirement for long-acting injectable medications (tablet size, OR=2.14, 95%CI 1.030-4.430, p=0.042; and daily oral therapy, OR=1.75, 95%CI 1.010-3.030, p=0.044).Conclusions:Patients currently receiving anti-HIV drugs who express dissatisfaction with tablet size and daily oral therapy may prefer a long-acting injectable formulation, taking into consideration patient age, employment status, ART history, frequency of daily dosage and concomitant medications other than ART.
AMFC: A New Approach Efficient Junctions Detect via Maximum Flow Approach
Authors: ÖZTEMİZ Furkan
Published: April 2023

In this study, max flow analysis processes are carried out with a graph theory-based approach that can be used in optimizing the traffic load in transportation networks. The data used in the study consists of 2 years of vehicle number data consisting of 438 million vehicle passes of a real city. Bottleneck points affecting traffic flow, maximum flow values, and effectiveness values of traffic generating and attracting locations were determined in the uniquely created transportation network. The Ford-Fulkerson algorithm was used to determine the maximum flow and bottleneck road connections in the designed transportation network. According to the maximum traffic flow to the junction point, the most effective junction points were determined by the PageRank algorithm. In addition, a unique algorithm is presented in the study that determines the effective intersection points that transfer vehicle traffic at maximum capacity to all junction points according to the maximum demand capacity data.
Climate change impacts and responses index: risks, opportunities and policy implications
Authors: Xie Yi , Li Huimin , Liu Jingshu , Han Lefei , Zhang Xiaoxi , Zhou Xiaonong , Guo Xiaokui , Xiu Leshan , Yin Hao , Yin Kun
Published: April 2023

Identifying climate change risks, vulnerability of exposed population and responses to climate change are critical to develop effective strategies to mitigate climate hazards. In this study, we have developed a climate change impacts and responses (CCIR) index that incorporates comprehensive information on climate risks, health burdens and actions that are taken in response to climate risks and damage. According to our knowledge, the CCIR index is the first of its kind that explores both climate impacts and mitigation actions. The CCIR index was positively correlated with national GDP per capita because wealthier countries can allocate more resources to mitigating climate impacts. Countries with better climate education tended to lower their carbon footprint. Furthermore, countries with higher risks of emerging infectious diseases that were more likely to consume more renewable energy. By identifying climate risks and opportunities, the CCIR index can help policymakers design, refine, and implement adaptation policies and actions to respond to the impacts of climate change.
Combinatorial slot-die coating for high-throughput compositional screening of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Li Jinzhao , Shargaieva Oleksandra , Maticiuc Natalia , Zizak Ivo , List-Kratochvil Emil , Unger Eva
Published: April 2023

We here present a generic methodology enabling the accelerated optimization of the composition and processes conditions for functional solution-processable materials compatible with later transfer of optimized conditions to scaled device manufacturing. In combinatorial slot-die coating, two or more precursor inks are fed with different rates into the slot-die enabling fast screening of the precursor solution composition on coating property in one experimental run, which can either be implemented as consecutive coatings with different compositions or as a continuous compositional gradient. As a first example, we here present combinatorially slot-die coated halide perovskite thin-films ranging from the precursor compositions of pure formamidinium lead iodide, FAPbI3, to methylammonium lead bromide, MAPbBr3. In this series, both the optical and morphological properties of the deposited thin-films change dramatically. An increasing faction of MAPbBr3 resulted in larger optical bandgaps. At very high MAPbBr3 ratios, differences in the thin-film crystallization kinetics due to the simultaneous change of the precursor solution solvent resulted in thin-films with low quality morphology. The spatial compositional homogeneity of the coated thin-films was characterized by grazing incidence wide angle X-ray scattering mapping. We fabricated inverted perovskite solar cells in the full compositional range and found a performance maximum for FAPbI3-richer devices with a MAPbBr3-content of 20 mol%. The performance maximum can be rationalized with the improved thermodynamic stability of the halide perovskite crystal structure due to a more ideal tolerance factor upon incorporation of the smaller methylammonium cation and bromide anion into the crystal structure. At high MAPbBr3-content, the device performance drops due to two effects: light-induced phase-segregation and a dramatically decreased thin-film morphology exhibiting pinholes. The example highlights the critical balance of precursor solution composition and processing conditions as the crystallization kinetics critically affect the resulting thin-film quality and morphology. This generic methodology can be further optimized and exploited to identify optimal precursor solution compositions and process conditions to achieve high-quality thin films with a target composition and sample morphology with high experimental throughput.
Characterization of Nutrients in the Leaves and Fruits of Embaúba (Cecropia Pachystachya) Trécul
Authors: De Souza Lima Elaine Cristina , Da Silva Feijó Marcia Barreto , Dos Santos Edna Ribeiro , Sabaa-Srur Armando U.O. , Luo Rensheng , Dobbs Thomas , Smith Robert E
Published: April 2023

The fruits and leaves of the embaúba tree (Cecropia Pachystachya Trécul) harvested in the region of the state of Rio de Janeiro were analyzed for moisture, protein, fat, ash, soluble fiber, insoluble fiber, carbohydrates, pH, acidity and minerals. The fresh fruit and leaves had 71.8 and 62.4% moisture, 0.54 and 1.13% protein, 0.68 and 0.46% total fat, 0.50 and 0.96% ash, 0.11 and 0.19% soluble fiber, 2.60 and 2.19% insoluble fiber, 23.8 and 32.7% total carbohydrates, 0.04 and 0.06% acidity and pH values of 5.98 and 5.1, respectively. The fruit and leaves are also good sources of magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe). They provide >100% of the dietary reference intake (DRI) for adults. Lyophilized fruits and leaves were also extracted by hot, pressurized, dry methanol (100°C, 10 MPa). This solubilized 27% of the fruit and 15% of the leaves. The extract was partitioned between water and methylene chloride (CH2Cl2). The amphiphilic compounds went into the CH2Cl2 phase. They accounted for 2.13% and 5.15% of the lyophilized fruit and leaves, respectively. The amino acid concentrations were also measured. NMR analysis showed that the methanolic extract contained primarily fatty acid glycosides, with smaller amounts of aromatic compounds. The NMR spectra of the amphiphilic compounds showed the presence of triglycerides in the fruit, but not the leaves. This will give regulators several ways of determining whether or not food products labeled as containing embauba are genuine. In addition, it will help regulators decide if embaúba should be classified as generally regarded as safe (GRAS). It will also help regulators decide what should be on the label for food products made from embauba.https://doi.org/10.21423/jrs-v04n04p029 (DOI assigned 5/14/2019)
Regulatory Science and Practices
Authors: Dai Susie Y.
Published: April 2023

In terms of regulation and the scientific disciplines, the scientific infrastructure for the modern world needs innovation. The need for science-based regulation is urgently needed to enable regulators to systematically review the vast scientific data, extract and analyze the most useful information, and develop best practices. Included in the current issue of Journal of Regulatory Science, practices in medicine regulatory agencies and environment polices are discussed. It is not the intent for this current issue of JRS to present or recommend the best science or practices; it is our intent to bring the topics into discussion.https://doi.org/10.21423/jrs-v04n04pi (DOI assigned 5/14/2019)
Determination of Multiclass Harmful Residues in Shellfish Using LC-MS
Authors: Gong Xiaoming , Ma Ronghui , Li Kai , Zhang Hongwei , Wu Zhenxing , Wang Hongtao , Sun Jun , Zhao Han
Published: April 2023

A multi-residue procedure with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis was developed to simultaneously detect the presence of 4 diarrheic shellfish poisoning toxins, 14 sulfonamides, chloramphenicol and thiamphenicol in shellfish tissues. Samples were first purified by a modified rapid procedure and separated on a ZOBRAX Eclipse Plus C18 column and quantified using electron spray ionization-mass spectrometry-mass spectrometry. The results showed that the limits of quantification (LOQ) of SPX1, OA-C, GYM, and PTX-2 were 1.0, 2, 0.5 and 2 μg/kg, respectively. The LOQ for the antibiotics was below acceptable limits established by most countries. Compared to the external standard method, this matrix matched the calibration method effectively, overcame the matrix effects and gave better quantitative results. Recoveries of spiked compounds ranged between 67.6% and 109.8%, with relative standard deviations below 15% for most target analytes. Only sulfathiazole had a %RSD of 18.6% at the lowest spiked concentration. The proposed method was accurate, rapid and reliable.https://doi.org/10.21423/jrs-v05n01p009 (DOI assigned 4/17/2019)
A Systematic Procedure for Screening Counterfeit Pharmaceutical Tablet Coatings and Cores Utilizing Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Lanzarotta Adam , Crowe John , Andria Sara
Published: April 2023

Suspect counterfeit tablet coatings and cores have been examined and compared to authentic coatings and cores using attenuated total internal reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FT-IR) spectroscopy. The analytical approach described in this study is currently employed on a routine basis by the Forensic Chemistry Center (FCC) as an initial screen prior to confirmatory analyses.https://doi.org/10.21423/jrs-v05n01p021 (DOI assigned 4/17/2019)
Regulatory Science and Regulatory Affairs
Authors: Molins Ricardo
Published: April 2023

Regulatory science is a relatively new field of study and practice, brought about by the need to develop and apply tools and guidelines designed to give laws and regulations a solid scientific basis. Without a scientific basis, guidelines, laws, regulations, and standards would hardly be objective and able to withstand the scrutiny and opposition that they often generate.https://doi.org/10.21423/jrs-v05n02pi (DOI assigned 3/11/2019)