bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Necessidade de sacarose no cultivo in vitro de bananeira (Musa spp)
Authors: Henrique Condela Guambe Belton , Mulima Eduardo Pinto , Manuela De Franca Bettencourt Gisela
Published: May 2024

O cultivo de plantas in vitro é uma tecnologia que vem ganhando espaço em várias áreas do saber, desde a produção de fármacos, o melhoramento genético até a micropropagação de espécies de difícil multiplicação convencional. O meio de cultura é um elemento essencial para o alcance dos objetivos do cultivo in vitro e para a micropropagação de espécies vegetais, e dentre os componentes do meio de cultura, as fontes de carbono adicionadas ao meio de cultura são determinantes para o desenvolvimento dos explantes. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o cultivo in vitro da banana (Musa spp), da cultivar Banana maçã em diferentes concentrações de sacarose, como fonte de carbono para seu desenvolvimento. Os cultivos foram realizados tendo como explantes rizomas de bananeira, do tipo chifrinho, cultivados em frascos contendo 40 mL de meio de cultura Murashige e Skoog (MS), complementado por reguladores vegetais a 4 mL L-1 de Benzilaminopurina (BAP) e 175 µL L-1 de Ácido indol-3-acético (AIA) em diferentes concentrações de sacarose (0, 10, 20 e 30 g L-1), com o pH 5.8. O desenho experimental usado foi o delineamento completamente casualizado, com quatro tratamentos e oito repetições. Todos os dados coletados foram analisados e na comparação de médias foi usado o teste de Duncan à 5% de significância. O meio de cultura com 30 g L-1 de sacarose causou o maior número de brotações, folhas e altura de plantas, todavia foi o meio mais propenso à contaminação. Portanto, há necessidade de se incorporar ao meio de cultura bactericidas e fungicidas para um controle efetivo de contaminantes. Observou-se perda de vigor de crescimento nas plantas de todos os tratamentos 30 dias após o início do cultivo in vitro, o que deve estar relacionada à oxidação dos explantes ou à ausência de renovação do meio de cultura.
The Impact of Sick Building Syndrome and Physical Air Quality on Staff Productivity in the Hospital's Outpatient Room of Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Haji Indonesia
Authors: Drastyana Serlly Frida , Silvia Catalan Ambag  , Ningrum Listiana Dewi Widya , Diah Wijayanti Sutha
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The concept of SBS as an occupational health problem is related to air pollution, inadequate ventilation, and indoor air quality in office buildings. Lighting in the RSUD Haji Building still does not meet general and local lighting standards. Complaints of eye fatigue are also felt by administrative staff in the outpatient room of the RSUD Haji Indonesia. This research aimed to examine how physical air quality and sick building syndrome give impact to officer productivity in the outpatient room of the RSUD Haji Indonesia. Methods: This kind of study used a cross-sectional design and was observational. Simple random sampling was utilized in the sampling process, and logistic and linear regression were used to analyze the data. Results and Discussion: Lighting in outpatient rooms that is 100% compliant with standards. The percentage of rooms without proper temperature norms was 21.42%. The rate of rooms with inadequate noise requirements was 17.86%. Spaces without 50% relative humidity norms. SBS symptoms: 10.3% of respondents said they always had itchy skin, and 27.6% said they frequently experienced extreme stress and exhaustion symptoms. Conclusion: There was no effect of temperature, lighting, or noise in the room regarding the sick building syndrome symptoms of officers in the outpatient room, except humidity. However, most workers felt SBS symptoms. Officer productivity was not impacted by the physical quality of the air or by sick building syndrome symptoms.
Phylogenetic Analysis and Mutation of Sars-Cov-2 in Bats in Karst Malang City, Indonesia
Authors: Keman Soedjajadi , Moch Irfan Hadi  , Dedy Suprayogi  , Yudied Agung Mirasa
Published: May 2024

Introduction: A group of people in China were hospitalized with an initial diagnosis of pneumonia of unknown cause. The patients were linked to a wholesale wet seafood and animal market in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. The disease has spread to other provinces in China, Thailand, Japan, and South Korea in less than a month. SARS-CoV-2 was found to originate from bats. Therefore, this research aims to analyze SARS-CoV-2 mutation in bats in Malang Karst, Indonesia. Methods: Other bat body parts used as research samples include the brain, liver, kidneys, intestines, pancreas, fetus, blood, lungs, and ectoparasites. The samples were taken separately and placed in a container containing 10% PBF. For further analysis, we used RNA Extraction, Real-Time PCR, Sequencing, and CoV Gisaid mutation analysis software to analyze the sequencing data. Then, EMBL software will be used to analyze the phylogenetically. Results and Discussion: There was 1 sample that showed a positive result for Covid-19, namely the intestine of the Cynoptera brachyotis species. There were differences between SARS-CoV-2 in bats in Malang Karst in Indonesia compared to SARS-CoV from 2000 to 2019. The spike protein's receptor binding domain (RBD) is the most variable part of the coronavirus genome. Conclusion: From the research results, one positive sample was obtained using Real-Time PCR, and based on mutation analysis, mutations were found in SARS-CoV-2 against the SARS-CoV virus from 2000-2019. Further research is needed, especially regarding SARS-CoV-2 as a vaccine.
Automatically targeting the dorsolateral subthalamic nucleus for functional connectivity-guided rTMS therapy
Authors: Zhao Na , Qiao Yang , Yue Juan , Jing Ying , Ge Qiu , Zhang Meng , Zhang Jianguo , Zhen Yuan , Xiang Yu-Tao , Wang Jue , Zang Yu-Feng
Published: May 2024

Aim: Many resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) studies have provided evidence that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) exerts treatment effects via functional connectivity (FC) from a superficial stimulation target to a deep effective region. The dorsolateral subthalamic nucleus (DL-STN) is an effective target in deep brain stimulation surgery for Parkinson’s disease (PD), but its targeting highly depends on well-trained neurosurgeons and is not easily used for FC-guided rTMS. We aimed to devise a method for automatically localizing the DL-STN, and further develop a one-stop plug-in of rs-fMRI FC analysis to assist future individualized FC-guided rTMS.

Methods: Based on structural and iron-sensitive MRI of 78 participants, two raters defined the DL-STN coordinates with very high reliability. The averaged coordinates in the standard Montreal Neurological Institute (MNI) space were: left DL-STN, x: -11.89 ± 0.82, y: -14.51 ± 1.00, and z: -6.40 ± 1.01 and the right DL-STN, x: 12.53 ± 0.77, y: -13.97 ± 0.86, and z: -6.57 ± 0.99. As the individual distances from the averaged coordinates were less than 3 mm (within one voxel for most rs-fMRI studies) for all 78 participants, we defined the average coordinates as AutoSTN. We then developed a one-stop plug-in named Connectivity and Coordinates Converting Assistant Toolbox (CC-CAT) and performed AutoSTN FC analysis.

Results: The AutoSTN seed showed significant FC with the motor cortices in all participants.

Conclusion: The AutoSTN-based rs-fMRI FC could guide future rTMS on PD. The one-stop plug-in CC-CAT can be used for any FC-guided rTMS treatment.
Current knowledge about immunotherapy resistance for melanoma and potential predictive and prognostic biomarkers
Authors: Song Lanni , Yang Yixin , Tian Xuechen
Published: May 2024

Melanoma still reaches thousands of new diagnoses per year, and its aggressiveness makes recovery challenging, especially for those with stage III/IV unresectable melanoma. Immunotherapy, emerging as a beacon of hope, stands at the forefront of treatments for advanced melanoma. This review delves into the various immunotherapeutic strategies, prominently featuring cytokine immunotherapy, adoptive cell therapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and vaccinations. Among these, immune checkpoint inhibitors, notably anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) antibodies, emerge as the leading strategy. However, a significant subset of melanoma patients remains unresponsive to these inhibitors, underscoring the need for potent biomarkers. Efficient biomarkers have the potential to revolutionize the therapeutic landscape by facilitating the design of personalized treatments for patients with melanoma. This comprehensive review highlights the latest advancements in melanoma immunotherapy and potential biomarkers at the epicenter of recent research endeavors.
ANALYSIS OF TOPOLOGY OF THE AUTOTRANSFORMER FORWARD-FLYBACK CONVERTER FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL
Authors: Nerubatskyi Volodymyr , Hordiienko Denys
Published: May 2024

Thе аnаlysіs оf cоnvеrtеrs cоntrоllіng оnly а pаrt оf thе оutput pоwеr іn phоtоvоltаіc systеms wаs cаrrіеd оut. Thе аrchіtеcturе оf dіstrіbutеd trаckіng оf thе mаxіmum pоwеr іs cоnsіdеrеd, whіch іs оnе оf thе mоst prоmіsіng sоlutіоns fоr оvеrcоmіng thе shоrtcоmіngs аssоcіаtеd wіth а dеcrеаsе іn thе еnеrgy еffіcіеncy оf phоtоvоltаіc pаnеls. Thе tоpоlоgy оf thе аutоtrаnsfоrmеr fоrwаrd-flybаck cоnvеrtеr fоr phоtоvоltаіc pаnеl іs gіvеn. Thе prіncіplе оf оpеrаtіоn оf thе cоnvеrtеr аnd thе flоw оf currеnt іn thе cіrcuіt durіng swіtchіng аrе prеsеntеd. Thе mеthоd оf cаlculаtіng thе оutput pоwеr оf thе cоnvеrtеr іn thе DMPPT аrchіtеcturе wіth а sеrіеs cоnnеctіоn, іn whіch thе cіrcuіt vоltаgе іs fіxеd by thе cеntrаl іnvеrtеr, dеpеnds оn thе gеnеrаtеd pоwеr оf thе phоtоvоltаіc pаnеls cоnnеctеd tо оnе cіrcuіt, іs оbtаіnеd. Thе pоwеr gеnеrаtеd by phоtоvоltаіc pаnеls wаs cаlculаtеd dеpеndіng оn thе stаtе оf thеіr shаdіng.
Reinforcement Learning in the Task of Spherical Robot Motion Control
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Nor N. V.
Published: May 2024

The output control algorithm is a pair of trained neural networks — actor and critic, where the actor-network is used to obtain the control torques applied to the robot wheel and the critic-network is only involved in the learning process. The results of the training are shown below, namely how the robot performs the motion along ten arbitrary trajectories, where the main quality functional is the average error magnitude over the trajectory length scale. The algorithm is implemented using the PyTorch machine learning library.
The Industrial Profile of the EAEU Countries: Effects of the First Decade
Authors: Rekeda S.
Published: May 2024

The article delves into the analysis of the industrial progress of the Eurasian Economic Union nations spanning from 2014 to 2023. It elucidates the theoretical underpinnings on which the transnational framework for industrial advancement within the Union rests. The empirical endeavours of the Union in this realm are scrutinized. Drawing upon statistical evidence, an evaluation of the efficacy of the established industrial support mechanism in the EAEU member states is proffered. The article endeavours to delineate a comprehensive industrial portrait for each EAEU nation based on an array of economic benchmarks, which delineate the caliber of industrial sector growth and its integration into the economic fabric of the Union. The author arrives at discernments regarding the standard of industrial development in the EAEU and puts forth suggestions for augmenting its caliber and vigor.
Advancements in Fault Detection Techniques for Transmission Lines: A Literature Review
Authors: Daang Jewelle Abbygale M. , Omas-as Andrey M. , Arboleda Edwin R.
Published: May 2024

This literature review delves into the realm of fault detection techniques for transmission lines, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements and key trends in the field. Employing a structured approach, the review synthesizes a plethora of research spanning from 2019 to 2024, sourced from diverse databases including IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, Scopus, Litmaps, and Google Scholar. The methodology encompasses a systematic literature search protocol, stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, meticulous data extraction, and a multi-dimensional analysis framework. The literature review uncovers a spectrum of fault detection methodologies, ranging from traditional signal processing techniques like Discrete Wavelet Transform and phase angle-based methods to cutting-edge deep learning algorithms such as Capsule Networks and Convolutional Neural Networks. Insights gleaned from the review underscore the critical importance of fault detection in maintaining the reliability, safety, and efficiency of power grids, highlighting its role as a frontline defense against widespread outages and equipment damage. Key findings from the review shed light on the efficacy of different fault detection approaches, showcasing their strengths and limitations across diverse system conditions. Furthermore, the review identifies common trends and challenges, including the need for real-world validation, scalability, adaptability to various network configurations, and cybersecurity considerations. This literature provides valuable insights and recommendations for future research endeavors in fault detection for transmission lines. By embracing advancements in both traditional and emerging techniques, researchers can continue to enhance the resilience and dependability of power transmission systems, ensuring their ability to withstand evolving challenges and safeguard critical infrastructure.
Suitability Analysis of Solar Energy Plant Sites in Yemen Using AHP and GIS Methods
Authors: Noman Abdulrakeeb Algawbery , Shukri Mohamed Ali , AL-Moutawakel Mohammed Qaseem
Published: May 2024

This research aimed to determine the most viable locations for establishing solar energy facilities in Yemen through the utilization of the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Best-Worst Method (BWM), and Geographic Information System (GIS). A total of twelve key criteria were meticulously selected and evaluated based on their impact on the appropriateness of sites for solar power plants. These criteria were amalgamated using a weighted overlay tool, resulting in a map that classified regions as either optimal, highly suitable, or suitable. The findings of the study indicated that the eastern, southern, and northern parts of Yemen are prime candidates for solar energy installations due to their moderate climate and flat topography. On the other hand, the western regions were deemed less favorable. The breakdown of site classifications revealed that 38% of areas were optimal, 61% were highly suitable, and only 1% were considered suitable, based on the assigned weights from the AHP and BWM methodologies. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis was carried out to evaluate the impact of adjusting the weights of Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) and slope on site classifications. A minor increase in the weights of GHI (from 30% to 31%) and slope (from 10% to 11%) resulted in a significant alteration in the suitability categories, highlighting the importance of weight adjustments in multi-criteria decision-making processes. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the effectiveness of AHP, BWM, and GIS in assessing site suitability for solar energy facilities, as well as the significance of sensitivity analyses. These approaches provide valuable insights for decision-makers, aiding in strategic planning and fostering sustainable energy development in Yemen.
IDENTIFYING THE UNDERSTANDING OF THE PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV REGARDING PREVENTING HIV TRANSMISSION IN JAYAPURA CITY, INDONESIA
Authors: Ramban Windy Marini , Assa Inriyanti , Mamoribo Sherly N. , Asmuruf Frans , Asriati Asriati , Yufuai Agustina R
Published: May 2024

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a virus that can attack and reduce the human immune system, causing various symptoms of the disease called AIDS. Prevention is very important for people living with HIV in order to break the chain of HIV transmission. The aim of this research is to identify the understanding of the people living with HIV regarding preventing HIV transmission in Jayapura City.

Method: The type of research is quantitative analytic with a cross sectional design. The research was conducted at the Waena and Hebeybhulu Yoka Community Health Centers in June-July 2023. The respondents in this study were PLWHA who came to take medicine at the community health centers. Using a saturated sampling technique, there were 63 respondents. The measuring instrument used was a questionnaire, data was analyzed univariately and bivariately using the chi-square test (α < 0.05).

Results: The majority of respondents were adults (92.1%), the majority of gender was female (58.7%), high education (79.4%), not working (54.0%), the majority of marital status was unmarried. (52.4%), information about HIV through print media (81%), direct media from health workers (74.6%), good understanding regarding preventing HIV transmission (69.8%). The results of the chi-square test showed a relationship between understanding of PLWHA and actions to prevent HIV transmission in Jayapura City (p-value = 0.005 < 0.05).

Conclusion: PLWHA will undergo regular treatment and take preventive measures so as not to infect partners or other people.
Profil Sosio-Demografi dan Evaluasi Kepuasan Penghuni Rusunawa pada Aspek Infrastruktur, Pelayanan, dan Pengelolaan
Authors: Sukmana Febrian Humaidi , Purnama Lisa , Utomo Pandu Kusumoputro
Published: May 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi kesesuaian profil sosio-demografi penghuni Rumah Susun Sewa Selagalas Kota Mataram (RSKM) dengan kriteria regulasi yang berlaku, serta untuk menilai tingkat kepuasan penghuni terhadap infrastruktur, pelayanan, dan pengelolaan di RSKM. Pendekatan penelitian dilakukan dengan mengumpulkan data primer dan sekunder. Data primer diperoleh melalui survei menggunakan kuesioner yang disebarkan kepada 72 responden yang representatif, dengan menerapkan desain survei cross-sectional. Pertanyaan survei meliputi aspek-aspek infrastruktur, fasilitas, dan utilitas umum (14 pertanyaan) serta manajemen di RSKM (9 pertanyaan). Analisis dilakukan dengan mengeksplorasi sembilan variabel sosio-demografi penghuni. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa beberapa aspek, seperti ketersediaan fasilitas bermain anak dan sarana olahraga, serta sosialisasi pencegahan dan keselamatan terhadap bencana, dinilai kurang memadai oleh penghuni RSKM. Selain itu, pemeliharaan gedung secara berkala juga dinilai kurang memuaskan. Implikasi temuan ini adalah pentingnya pengembangan kebijakan yang lebih efektif bagi pengelolaan Rumah Susun Sewa yang layak dan berkelanjutan, untuk memenuhi kebutuhan dan meningkatkan kepuasan penghuni.
Global Impact of Breach of Good Faith in Insurance Contracts
Authors: Nugraha Delsa Wahyu , Setyawan Fendi , Soetijono Iwan Rachmad
Published: May 2024

This study explores the principle of utmost good faith (itikad baik) in insurance contracts, which mandates full and honest disclosure by all parties to prevent agreement nullification. Despite its critical importance, the enforcement and consequences of breaches are poorly documented, particularly regarding legal outcomes and claims processes. Through normative legal research utilizing primary and secondary sources, this research examines the implications of such breaches and suggests regulatory enhancements. Key findings indicate breaches can lead to contract cancellation, claim denial, or legal actions. The study highlights the necessity of regulatory improvements and increased notarial involvement to ensure equitable and transparent insurance practices.
Highlights:

Critical Role of Disclosure: Utmost good faith requires complete honesty from all parties in insurance contracts.
Consequences of Breach: Violations can lead to severe outcomes like contract termination and denied claims.
Need for Regulation: Suggests stronger legal frameworks and notarial oversight to ensure fairness and transparency.

Keywords: Utmost Good Faith, Insurance Contracts, Legal Implications, Regulatory Enhancements, Notarial Involvement
OCUPAÇÃO PIONEIRA, FORMAÇÃO DA REDE URBANA E DISTRIBUIÇÃO ESPACIAL DE INDICADORES SOCIOECONÔMICOS EM REGIÕES PRODUTIVAS DO TOCANTINS E DA BAHIA
Authors: SOUZA SANTANA SOBRINHO ORIMAR , Luiz Araújo Sobrinho Fernando
Published: May 2024

Este estudo analisa o movimento pioneiro de ocupação e formação da rede urbana e a distribuição espacial de indicadores socioeconômicos e populacionais no período de 2000 a 2010 para compreender a realidade dos municípios da Mesorregião Oriental do Tocantins e da Mesorregião Extremo Oeste Baiano neste período. Nesta região, a reestruturação produtiva da agropecuária requisitou acréscimos técnicos e outras alterações nos sistemas produtivos tradicionais que ocasionaram rebatimentos no interior das cidades e na vida das pessoas. Temos como pressuposto que o processo histórico de ocupação e formação dos núcleos urbanos condicionou a concentração da população e das atividades em municípios específicos e portanto, neles ocorrem as melhores condições de vida e de desenvolvimento humano. A pesquisa orientou-se pelo rastreamento de bibliografia sobre a formação da rede de cidades da região, os resultados do Censo Demográfico 2000 e 2010 e do Atlas Brasil para elaboração de documentos cartográficos como subsídio para futuros estudos a partir dos dados atualizados do Censo 2022 em andamento. Espera-se assim compreender processos pretéritos que condicionaram o aparecimento das cidades e os fatores políticos, econômicos, ambientais e culturais que no longo tempo garantem a permanência e as transformações ocorridas na dinâmica do desenvolvimento humano deste segmento de rede urbana.
Heme oxygenase-1 is involved in the erastin-induced ferroptosis in acute myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Zhao Jingyuan , Tian Siyu , Liu Jinnan , Liu Sichu , Ma Xiaolu , Yuan Hong
Published: May 2024

Emerging evidences have suggested that ferroptosis is one of the targeted mechanisms in tumor therapy. However, whether erastin can induce ferroptosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and the potential mechanisms remains to be explored. CCK8 assay was first used to detect the toxicity of erastin to human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL60), and the toxicological effect of erastin on HL60 cells performed a significant dose-dependent manner. Ferroptosis in HL60 was affirmed through the manifestation of mitochondrial ultrastructural damage, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), depletion of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX)4. Proteomics analysis identified heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) as a key protein involved in the ferroptosis pathway. Further experiments showed that activation of HO-1 with Hemin worsened erastin-induced ferroptosis, while inhibition of HO-1 with Znpp partially alleviated it , without affecting protein levels of P62, LC3B, and nuclear receptor coactivator (NCOA)4. Thus, our study has indicated that erastin significantly induced ferroptosis in HL60 cells, which can be reversed by ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1). Overexpression of HO-1 deteriorates erastin-induced ferroptosis, which can be partially alleviated by inhibition of HO-1 independent on ferritinophagy. Ferroptosis, as a new cell death mechanism, may provide new clues and strategies for the treatment of AML.
A remote health intervention to reduce impairing post-concussional mild-to-moderate symptoms in adults (GAIN Lite): Study protocol for a parallel group randomised trial
Authors: Pedersen Sedsel Kristine Stage , Thastum Mille Møller , Odgaard Lene , Næss-Schmidt Erhard Trillingsgaard , Pedersen Carsten Bøcker , Nygaard Charlotte , Pallesen Hanne , Silverberg Noah D , Brunner Iris
Published: May 2024

Background: Mild traumatic brain injury, commonly known as concussion, has been estimated to be around 600 per 100.000 yearly in Denmark, and 30-50 million new cases worldwide. Although complete resolution normally occurs within a few weeks, up to a third develop persistent post-concussion symptoms (PPCS) beyond 3 months. However, evidence for effective treatment strategies is scarce. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the novel intervention GAIN Lite added to enhanced usual care (EUC) for adults with mild-to-moderate PPCS compared to EUC only.
Methods: An open-label, parallel-group, two-arm randomized controlled superiority trial (RCT) with 1:1 allocation ratio. Participants will be randomly assigned to either: 1) EUC or; 2) GAIN Lite added to EUC. GAIN Lite is characterized as a complex intervention and has been developed, feasibility-tested, and process evaluated before effect evaluation in the RCT. Sixty-six participants will be recruited to each group. Potential participants will be identified through the hospital's Business Intelligence portal of the Central Denmark Region or referred by general practitioners within 2-4 months post-concussion. Primary outcomes are mean changes in PPCS and limitations in daily life from baseline to 24 weeks after baseline
Discussion: GAIN Lite is a low-intensity intervention for adults with mild-to-moderate PPCS. Offering a remote intervention may improve access to rehabilitation and prevent chronification for individuals with mild-to-moderate PPCS. Moreover, GAIN Lite will facilitate access to healthcare, especially for those with transportation barriers. Overall, GAIN Lite may provide an accessible, flexible, and convenient way to receive treatment based on sound theories and previous evidence of effective interventions for adults with mild-to-moderate PPCS.
Trial Registration: URL: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT05233475. Registered on 10th of February 2022.
The influence of environmental factors related to Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM), its course and refractoriness to treatment.
Authors: Valoes Clarissa C.M. , Arabi Tamima M. , Braga Alfésio L.F. , Campos Lucia M.A. , Kozu Katia T. , Aikawa Nadia E. , Silva Clovis A. , Farhat Sylvia C.L. , Elias Adriana M.
Published: May 2024

Objective To evaluate the influence of environmental factors and prematurity relating to juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM), its course and refractoriness to treatment.Methods A case-control study with 35 patients followed up at a tertiary hospital and 124 healthy controls, all residents in metropolitan area of São Paulo city. Patients were classified according to monocyclic, polycyclic or chronic disease courses and refractoriness to treatment. The daily concentrations of pollutants (inhalable particulate matter-PM10, sulfur dioxide-SO2, nitrogen dioxide-NO2, ozone-O3 and carbon monoxide-CO) were provided by the Environmental Company of São Paulo. Data from the population were obtained through a questionnaire.Results Fifteen patients had monocyclic course, and 19 polycyclic/chronic courses. Eighteen patients were refractory to treatment. Maternal occupational exposure to inhalable agents (OR = 17.88; IC 95% 2.15-148.16, p = 0.01) and exposure to O3 in the fifth year of life (third tertile > 86.28µg/m3; OR = 6.53, IC95% 1.60-26.77, p = 0.01) were risk factors for JDM in the multivariate logistic regression model. The presence of a factory/quarry at a distance farther than 200 from daycare/school (OR = 0.22; IC 95% 0.06–0.77; p = 0.02) was a protective factor in the same analysis. Prematurity, exposure to air pollutants/cigarette smoke/sources of inhalable pollutants in the mother's places of residence and work during the gestational period were not associated with JDM. Prematurity, maternal exposure to occupational pollutants during pregnancy as well as patient’s exposure to ground-level pollutants up to the fifth year of life were not associated with disease course and treatment refractoriness.Conclusion Risk factors for JDM were maternal occupational exposure and exposure to O3 in the fifth year of life.
Biomonitoring of Yozgat Çamlık National Park’s Anthropogenic Microfiber Pollution: A Comprehensive Analysis of Lichen-Supported Air Quality Assessment and Microplastic Composition Insights
Authors: Kocakaya Zekiye , Yılmaz Erkan , Duman Fatih , Kocakaya Mustafa , Pekdemir Sami
Published: May 2024

The use of bioindicator organisms such as lichens has been a longstanding field of study to demonstrate levels of environmental pollution, as they are sensitive to air pollution but can also withstand and live in polluted environments, making them ideal for assessing air pollution levels. This study aimed to measure the level of anthropogenic microfibres, a type of microplastic, in lichen samples collected from Yozgat Çamlık National Park (Turkey). In the Yozgat Çamlık National Park region, 3 groups have been formed, starting from the region where the people are most crowded, towards the far regions where fewer people set foot. A comparative study was carried out in terms of the type and number of anthropogenic microfibres in lichen samples taken from these regions. In order to take anthropogenic microfibres from lichen samples into the analysis environment, a wet peroxide oxidation was used, followed by passing the fibres through special filters. Rose Bengal staining method was used to separate the synthetic material from the organic material. Stereo microscope was used to determine their size and color. Anthropogenic microfibres ranging from 0.15 to 4.2 mm in length were found. The study revealed that blue microfibres was the most one in three regions. To identify the plastic type, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR) with microscope property and micro-Raman spectrometer were conducted, and the obtained results were compared with literature studied and FTIR library to determine the plastic types. Based on the results, the most commonly found microplastics in the study area were Polyurethane (42%), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (25%), and Polyethylene Terephthalate (13%), respectively. The obtained all results reinforces the potential applicability of lichens as a reliable tool for biomonitoring atmospheric microfibres deposition. Consequently, the findings highlight the significance of using lichens as bioindicators to evaluate the levels of air pollution in a particular region and determine the effectiveness of pollution mitigation efforts.
Treatment of Paravertebral Arteriovenous Fistula with detachable coils plus Onyx Embolization : Case Report
Authors: Li Can , Li Xi feng , Feng Xin , Liu Wen chao , Li Ran , Guo Shen quan
Published: May 2024

The patient, a 47-year-old female, presented with a four-year history of recurrent dizziness that worsened over the past four months and experienced an intracranial murmur in the last month. Magnetic resonance imaging and cerebral digital subtraction angiography confirmed the presence of paravertebral arteriovenous fistula. This patient exhibited smooth recovery following endovascular intervention involving detachable coils plus Onyx.
Lateral Motor Column specific expression of Sonic Hedgehog contributes to maintenance and scaling of pMN progenitor cell populations during oligodendrogenesis
Authors: Kottmann Andreas , Starikov Lev , Ghinia-Tegla Miruna
Published: May 2024

Motor neurons (MNs) and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) emerge sequentially from the pMN precursor domain during spinal cord development. MNs diversify into muscle specific subtypes and settle in stereotypic locations in the ventral horns. In contrast, OPCs are mobile and appear to evenly populate the parenchyma. Whether earlier born MNs influence OPC production is controversial. We found that Sonic Hedgehog signaling emanating from nascent MNs of the lateral motor column is critical for maintaining a larger and more yielding pMN domain at limb levels compared to trunk levels during OPC production. Reduced Shh signaling resulted in unrecoverable diminishment of pMN domain based OPC production leaving the spinal cord impoverished of OPC. Our results suggest that production of OPC at limb levels is contingent on completion of MN production.
Association between frailty and chronic kidney disease: Findings from CHARLS
Authors: Yuan Jiamin , liu fang
Published: May 2024

Objectives: To investigate prevalence of frailty in CKD individuals and the relationship between frailty and CKD based on a large, nationally representative survey.
Design: Retrospective cohort study.
Participants: The participants were 4231 adults aged ≥50 years from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).
Measurements: Based on the FRAIL scale, frailty and prefrailty were defined. CKD was defined as eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73m2, calculated according to the CKD Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation, or self-reported CKD. Logistic regression models were conducted to analyze the cross-sectional relationship between frailty and CKD. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine the effect of frail status and frail components on CKD.
Results: We found that prevalence of frailty in CKD individuals was 13.9% while in patients without CKD was 8.4%. The prevalence of CKD in robust group was 6.0%, in prefrail group was 10.1% and in frail group was 14.0%. In frail status, after adjusted, the incidence of CKD was 1.713 (95% CI 1.109-2.646) in the frail group compared with robust group (P =0.015). While there was no statistical difference in the incidence of CKD among the prefrail group and robust group. In frail components, after adjusted, weight loss was associated with higher risk of CKD [HR (95% CI): 1.617 (1.170-2.235)].
Conclusion: The prevalence of frailty was relatively high in the population. In frail status, both prefrail and frail were associated with a higher risk of CKD. In frail components, weight loss was associated with an increase incidence of CKD. Frailty is reversible, so early identification of frailty may reduce the incidence of CKD and improve the adverse consequences associated with CKD.
Identifying the Medications with the Greatest Reduction in Mortality in Coronary Artery Dissection
Authors: Kazi Usman , Al-Nasseri Abraheim , Leavitt Nathaniel , Ho Huy , Cromwell Ryan , Reed Hunter , Zeidan Zeid , Pasupuleti Suman
Published: May 2024

Coronary artery dissection (CD) is a potentially fatal complication, usually arising either spontaneously or iatrogenically. Therefore, identifying treatment methods that reduce mortality is of great importance. The American College of Cardiology recommendations stipulate that patients who have experienced CD may benefit from beta-blocker therapy, as beta-blockers have been shown to reduce the incidence of recurrent CD. Currently, there is little published data in support of beta-blockers providing mortality reduction for CD. Given the significant risk of mortality from CD, we aimed to test the veracity of these recommendations using a retrospective multicenter study as well as having a main objective of exploring means to lower mortality in CD. We extracted data from 1190 patients with the diagnosis of CD. Our patients were identified and stratified based on common lab values and cardioprotective medications they were taking. Our data revealed that the odds ratio for mortality in patients with CD while on beta blockers was 0.375 (p-value 0.0009, confidence interval 0.210–0.669), and while on ACEi/ARBs was 0.447 (p-value 0.0077, confidence interval 0.247–0.808). These results indicate a significant reduction in mortality in patients who are taking beta-blockers and/or ACEi/ARB medications after being diagnosed with CD. Our data can be viewed as supportive of the current recommendation for the primary use of beta-blockers in patients with spontaneous CD, as well as suggesting angiotensin receptor blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors as possible additional therapies.
Patients’ perceptions of the efficacy, safety, and quality of the evidence of medicinal cannabis: a survey of Australian cancer patients.
Authors: Taylor Joseph , Fradgley Elizabeth , britton Ben , Martin Jennifer , Lucas Catherine , Carlson Melissa , Bridge Paula , Morris Sarah , Watts Gareth , Lynam James
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Despite the increased demand [8], and accessibility [5], to medical cannabis (MC) there is a general consensus among physicians that evidence on its efficacy [10,12,13], and safety [4,11], is lacking. Although research has explored medical professionals’ perceptions of MC [10, 12,13], to our knowledge there is minimal research exploring patients’ perceptions; particularly in an Australian cancer setting [14,15,16,17]. We therefore aimed to explore patients’ perceptions of the efficacy, safety, and evidence for MC.
Methods: A prospective cross-sectional questionnaire of Australian cancer patients attending adult oncology outpatient clinics in the Hunter New England Local Health District. Patients were 18 years, or older, and had a confirmed diagnosis of cancer (solid or haematological).
Results: 19% of our cohort were using MC. Despite using for symptom control such as pain (61%), and, in some cases perceived anti-cancer activity (12% to cure and 16% to slow the cancer); a minority of users believed that the evidence for either of these indications was of high quality (28% and 29% respectively). A minority of users (31%) were receiving information on MC from clinicians. Most instead rely on resources such as TV, friends, family, social media and websites.
Conclusion: This study demonstrated current real world cancer patients’ perceptions on: the evidence for MC, the sources of information used to shape their health beliefs, and compares users to non-users. The results highlight the need for treating teams to combat potential misinformation that patients may be accessing on MC and provide information on treatments with greater evidence.
Synthesis and Optical Properties of Co-Polycarbonate Containing Cardo Structure and Binaphthalene Structure
Authors: Li Chen , Wang Qingyin , Wang Gongying
Published: May 2024

In this paper, molten transesterification was used with diphenyl carbonate (DPC), 9,9'-bis[6-(2-hydroxyethoxy)naphthyl]fluorene (BNEF), 2,2'-bis(2-hydroxyethoxy)-1,1'-binaphthalene (BHEBN) were used as the polymeric monomers to prepare a series of co-polycarbonates with different molar feeding ratios. It is found that when the molar ratio of BHEBN and BNEF is 6:4, the copolymer has more comprehensive properties. The Mn of the copolymer is 23000 Mn, the Mw is 40700, and the PDI is 1.77. The glass transition temperature is 147.6℃, the initial thermal decomposition temperature (Td,5%) is 338.9℃, the refractive index is 1.6753, the Abbe number is 18.7, and the light transmittance is 86.23%.
Digitizing Medical History: French Validation of FirstHx Primary Care Tool​: Research protocol
Authors: McGraw Monica , Merlin Marjolaine Dionne , Dion Cynthia , Renaud Julie , Poirier Marie-Dominique , Cormier Jules , Aubé Marie-Eve , Quintal Jean-Claude
Published: May 2024

Background
Digital healthcare technology is experiencing a surge in popularity, being embraced both within clinical care and research. Adopting a digital system for medical history has the potential to enhance patient engagement in shared decision-making processes effectively bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers. Centered on patient empowerment and improving the quality of care, our vision is to revolutionize the way healthcare providers gather and utilize patient information. FirstHx is currently collaborating and has toolsets within the eVisitNB framework, however, deployment within primary care clinics remains elusive due to our limited understanding of the needs, cultural and acceptability of triage for the francophone population with the majority being anglophone.
Aim
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the validity and user satisfaction of the digital medical history tool used by FirstHx at the French-language level in primary care. Design: A multi-phase study with an explanatory sequential mixed design.
Methods
Phase 1- Non-patient facing: In the quantitative phase, students from a French university will be recruited to perform a simulation with the French medical history tool. The students (participants) will play the role of the patient and the tool will be administered to them. Following the simulation, the participants will be asked to answer a survey to validate the French medical tool. The quality of French and the clarity of the questions will be some of the topic questions. In the qualitative phase, a descriptive approach will be used. Participants will be the same as in the quantitative phase and will be selected by purposive sampling. Data will be gathered through semi-structured interviews with a minimum of 25% of the participants from the quantitative phase. The qualitative data obtained will be employed to support the data from the quantitative survey. Phase 2 - Patient facing: In collaboration with a private clinic (Energii) in the Dieppe area the French medical history tool from phase one will be piloted with patients from the clinic Energii. The same mixed design will be conducted.
An Outdoor Play Intervention in Early Childhood Education Centers: Results from the PROmoting Early Childhood Outside Pilot Wait-list Control Cluster Randomized Trial
Authors: Ramsden Rachel , Mount Dawn , Lin Yingyi , Fox Emily , Herrington Susan , Loebach Janet , Cox Adina , Bundy Anita , Fyfe-Johnson Amber , Sandseter Ellen Beate Hansen , Stone Michelle , Tremblay Mark S. , Brussoni Mariana
Published: May 2024

Participation in outdoor play is beneficial for the health, well-being, and development of children. Early childhood education centers (ECECs) can provide equitable access to outdoor play. The PROmoting Early Childhood Outside (PRO-ECO) study is a pilot randomized trial that evaluates the PRO-ECO intervention on children’s outdoor play participation. The PRO-ECO intervention included four components: ECEC outdoor play policy; educator training; ECEC outdoor space modification; and parent engagement. This study included eight ECECs delivering licensed care to children (n = 217) aged 2.5 to 6 years in Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Using a wait-list control cluster randomized trial design, ECECs were randomly allocated to either the intervention arm (n = 4) or the wait-list control arm (n = 4). Change in the proportion and diversity of observed outdoor play behaviour during scheduled outdoor time was measured. Outcome data were collected at baseline, 6-month follow-up, and 12-month follow-up. The intervention effect on children’s outdoor play participation was examined using logistic regression mixed effect models. Controlling for gender, weather and temperature, there were no changes in children’s outdoor play participation following implementation of the PRO-ECO intervention in the between-group analysis. Within-group comparisons also revealed no change in play participation following the PRO-ECO intervention, however, the intervention group showed a positive effect (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 0.97, 1.70) in play participation 6 months after implementation of the intervention. The findings indicate that further analyses on child- and ECEC-level outcomes collected as part of the PRO-ECO study, including the diversity of children’s play, is required to effectively assess the impact of this intervention.
Research protocol of Proportion, clinical sequelae, and risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant reinfection in Hong Kong children: a population-level observational study
Authors: Miao Chuhan , Li Beilei , He Jianxun
Published: May 2024

Background:
The rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant has led to significant public health concerns, particularly regarding reinfection rates among children. The Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 have shown differences in infection dynamics compared to earlier strains. Understanding the proportion of reinfections, associated clinical sequelae, and risk factors influencing disease severity in this vulnerable population is critical. This study addresses these concerns by analyzing population-level data from Hong Kong children.
Methods:
This retrospective cohort study will utilize electronic health records from the Hospital Authority and vaccination data from the Department of Health in Hong Kong. Participants will include children aged 0-18 years with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections. The study will identify reinfection cases and compare clinical outcomes between initial infections and reinfections. Data analysis will involve descriptive statistics, logistic regression models, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to assess the risk factors and clinical outcomes associated with reinfection.
Discussion:
The findings from this study are expected to provide essential insights into the burden of SARS-CoV-2 reinfections among children, mainly focusing on the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants. Health authorities can better tailor public health interventions and vaccination strategies by understanding the frequency of reinfections and their clinical impacts. This study will contribute to the global understanding of COVID-19's evolving epidemiology and help mitigate the ongoing impacts of the pandemic on children’s health.
Trial registration: retrospectively registered.
KAP study on Breastfeeding and Weaning in a Low Socio-economic Area in Sudan, 2020-2021
Authors: Abdelseed Rahma , Ahmed Islam , Abdelseed Mohamed , Gabani Manal , Ahmed Haidar Abu
Published: May 2024

Background: Breastfeeding is the gold standard of infant and young child feeding and an essential factor for their health and overall well-being. This study aims to assess the influence of socio-economic determinants on knowledge, attitude and practice of breastfeeding and weaning among mothers of children aged two years and below in the suburbs of Khartoum locality.
Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 196 mothers of children selected through systematic random sampling.
Results: Around 53% of participants had good knowledge on breastfeeding and weaning, and 60% of respondent had positive attitude towards breastfeeding and weaning. With regards to practice; breastfeeding initiation during the first hour was practiced by 94%, approximately 8% of participants had given pre-lacteal feed, colostrum feeding was done by 86.7%, around22% of women fed their child from one side until the whole breast is emptied out, 41% of mothers practicing breastfeeding on demand, 45% mothers had practiced or were currently practicing exclusive breastfeeding, almost 29% started introducing complementary food after the age of 6 month, and the most common types of complementary food introduced were boiled vegetables (94%). Socio-economic status significantly associated with poor knowledge were age below 25 years (p=0.007), primary education and below (p= 0.000) and mothers working in marginal business (p=0.008). While negative attitude was significantly associated with primary school education and below (p =0.04) and income of < or =10 000 Sudanese pounds per months (p =0.05). Mothers on marginal business jobs were more likely to have poor knowledge when compared to employed women (OR= 7.3, p 0.034). Those of primary education and below were likely to have poor knowledge than those with education level of secondary school and above (OR=4.8, p= 0.000). Whereas, those younger than 25years were more likely to have poor knowledge than older mothers (OR=2, p 0.026). Mothers who delivered at home had lower knowledge levels as to those who gave birth in a health institute (OR=2, p=0.019).
Conclusion and recommendation: There is a need for mass education campaigns to promote optimal breastfeeding and weaning practices coupled with counseling during antenatal and postnatal periods