bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NATIONAL DEFENSE GRAND DESIGN WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF BHINNEKA TUNGGAL IKA: BUILDING NATIONAL IDENTITY AWARENESS THROUGH STATE DEFENSE
Authors: Setiawan I Gusti Ngurah Oka Putra , Wati Asma , Efendy A. Gusti
Published: October 2023

This research discusses the concept of state defense, focusing on the younger generation currently facing moral decline due to a lack of understanding of the concept of state defense. This research aims to rebuild awareness of Indonesian identity among the public, especially the younger generation, by utilizing the concept of state defense as a central element implementing the Grand Design of state defense while integrating the values of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. This research is conducted juridically normative or within the scope of legal dogmatics. Normative studies try to find the truth based on the scientific logic from the normative side. This research has revealed that the concept of state defense and the national defense grand design plays a central role in the effort to rekindle national identity awareness in Indonesia, particularly among the younger generation. Through understanding that national identity is the foundation of the country's defense objectives, harmony between the national defense grand design and national Pancasila values, culture, and aspirations is the key to strengthening national unity. The results of this study emphasize the importance of ensuring that the national defense grand design is aligned with the values of Bhineka Tunggal Ika, promoting cultural diversity as an integral aspect of national identity, and engaging the younger generation through state defense programs and education that include Indonesian history and culture. This helps build future leaders who have a sense of love and loyalty towards their nation and country and ensures that Indonesia's cultural heritage remains alive and thriving in the era of globalization.
Rancang Bangun Alat Pemecah Biji Kemiri Sistem Impact
Authors: Tage Oktafianus , Fahrizal Fahrizal , Priyono Priyono , Mau Sealtiel
Published: October 2023

Pesatnya perkembangan teknologi saat ini sangat mempengaruhi pola piker rmanusiadalam proses pengembangan akan suatu alat industry. Hal ini juga berdampak pada bidang pertanian khususnya pada tanaman kemiri. Produksi biji kemiri setiap tahunnya terus meningkat khususnya pada daerah NTT (kab.Nagekeo), hal ini yang mendorong peneliti merancang alat pemecah biji kemiri dengan system impact. Penelitian dilakukan secara experiment dengan menggunakan metode tray and error.Parameter yang diamati adalah uji kinerja alat.Kemiri perlu dijemur guna mengurangi kadar air agar proses pemecahan biji kemiri lebih efektif dan efisien. Kadar air kemiri yang baik untuk proses pemecahan adalah 4% -6% bk.
Clinico-demographic and microbiological profile of acute pyelonephritis in Azadi Teaching Hospital, Duhok province, Iraqi Kurdistan
Authors: Taha Sagvan Kareem , Abd Kais Hasan , Abdulkareem Fatima Nawaf , Saleem Zana Sidiq Mohammaed , Almukhtar Safa EizAldein , Merza Muayad A
Published: October 2023

The aims of this study were to identify the demographic and clinical characteristics of community associated acute pyelonephritis (CA-APN) or healthcare associated APN (HCA-APN), to determine risk factors linked with APN, and to identify the microbiological profile and its susceptibility patterns to antibiotics. A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2022 at the nephrology unit of Azadi Teaching Hospital, Duhok, Iraqi Kurdistan. Urine and blood samples were collected from patients diagnosed with APN. These samples were investigated to identify the microbiologic profile of the infecting organisms and determine their antibiotic susceptibility results. From a total of 97 adult and elderly APN patients, 55 (56.7%) were classified as HCA-APN, while 42 (43.3%) were classified as CA-APN. In the univariate analysis, age ≥ 65, catheterization, chronic kidney disease, hemodialysis, diabetes mellitus (DM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), neurologic disease, chronic pulmonary disease, PCT level, and ANC were identified as significant risk factors for HCA-APN compared to CA-APN. Patients with catheterization and CVD history showed independent association in the multivariate analysis. The overall mortality rate was 11.3%, which was significantly associated with HCA-APN (P = 0.002). Considering the microbiological profile, Escherichia coli uropathogen (n=61) was the predominant isolated bacteria followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (n=17). High antibiotic resistance rates were observed in fluoroquinolones and third generation cephalosporin classes among E. coli uropathogen in both CA-APN and HCA-APN patients, with a rate of 74.5 % and 63.9%, respectively. In conclusion, there is an increase in mortality rate regarding HCA-APN. The HCA-APN characteristics should be considered when prescribing empiric antibiotics. In our local setting, carbapenems are effective empiric therapies against enterobacteraceae uropathogens, for both HCA-APN and CA-APN. In order to prevent the emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance, implementing surveillance systems, infection prevention and control measures, and antimicrobial stewardship programs within our healthcare setting is crucial.
Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. 2023, 9 (3), 59-69
Comparison of outcomes between laparoscopic ureterolithotomy and push back PCNL in the management of upper ureteric stone
Authors: Alam Md Naushad , Alam Md Shawkat , Islam Khan Nazrul , Miah Md Latifur Rahman
Published: October 2023

Background: Upper ureteral stones are a common issue. There are numerous treatment options available, including medical expulsive therapy, shockwave lithotripsy, ureteroscopic stone extraction, PCNL and laparoscopic ureterolithotomy. PCNL and laparoscopic ureterolithotomy are the main approaches for large upper ureteral stones.
Objective: To compare the outcome between laparoscopic ureterolithotomy and push back PCNL in the management of upper ureteric stone
Methods: In this prospective study 60 patients presenting with upper ureteric stone were selected. Patients with renal insufficiency (creatinine >2.5 mg/dL), morbid obesity, coagulopathy, concurrent renal and ureteric stones, pregnancy, sepsis, stone size more than 30 mm, orthopedic contraindications for prone position and those with a probability of inability to achieve safe access to the collecting system on pre-operative imaging were excluded from this study. Upper ureteric stones were removed from 30 patients by laparoscopic ureterolithotomy and by push back PCNL procedure from another 30 patient stones. Two procedures were compared based on stone clearance rate, complications, surgery time and postoperative hospital stay.
Results: The mean age of the laparoscopic ureterolithotomy group in this study was 41.83 ± 7.96 years and in push back PCNL group it was 42.23 ± 7.42 years (p = 0.841). Male patients were predominant than female patients in each group. Mean stone diameter of laparoscopic ureterolithotomy group was 22.90 ± 4.18 mm and in push back PCNL group it was 21.26 ± 3.85 mm (p=0.122). Mean operative time of laparoscopic ureterolithotromy patients was 1.42 ± 0.14 hours and in push back PCNL group it was 1.19 ± 0.09 hours, the difference between the procedures was statistically significant (p<0.001). In laparoscopic ureterolithotomy group postoperative prolonged urine leakage was found in 4 (13.3%) cases and postoperative fever in 1 (3.3%) case. Postoperative analgesic required in 6 (20.0%) cases in laparoscopic ureterolithotomy group and 7 (23.3%) cases in push back PCNL group. Transfusion required only in push back PCNL group (13.3%). Duration of post-operative hospital stay was significantly higher in laparoscopic ureterolithotromy group than push back PCNL group. In this study, stone clearance rate was 100.0% & 100.0% in both the groups.
Conclusion: Both laparoscopic ureterolithotomy and push back PCNL are similar in management of upper ureteric stone.
Bangladesh J. Urol. 2022; 25(1): 14-18
Treatment of refractory hematospermia with Finasteride: A prospective placebo-controlled study
Authors: Enayetullah Imtiaz , Rajib Md Asaduzzaman , Khan Sharif Md Shahadat Ali , Joarder Md Abdul Baten , Misbah Tanbir Al , Islam Md Faisal
Published: October 2023

Background: Finasteride is being used to treat recurrent hematuria due to BPH. Androgen has an essential role in the production of angiogenic factors such as VEGF. Vessel density & VEGF decreases after finasteride treatment and thus improve haematospermia.
Objective: To test the efficacy of finasteride to control refractory idiopathic hematospermia for which conservative treatment has failed.
Methodology: This Prospective placebo-controlled study was carried out from July 2019 to June 2022 with 48 patients of hematospermia presented to the outpatient department of NIKDU. Twenty-two patients had refractory hematospermia of idiopathic nature. They were randomized into two equal groups, 11 patients in each group. One group received 5 mg finasteride daily for 3 months, and the other group received placebo. Patients were followed up with semen analysis and TRUS for 3 consecutive months and after 1 year.
Result: In the finasteride-treated group, remission of hematospermia occurred in 5 patients (45%) within 1 month. Patients continued treatment for 3 months without the recurrence of hematospermia. After stopping finasteride treatment, hematospermia recurred in 3 out of 9 patients 12 months later. Two cases were not improved, but a significant decrease in frequency & amount of bleeding was observed in semen analysis. In the placebo-treated group, cessation of hematospermia occurred in 3 cases (27%) versus 9 (81%) in the finasteride group (P = 0.03) after 3 months of treatment.
Conclusion: Three months of treatment with finasteride for refractory idiopathic hematospermia significantly cures hematospermia with no undesirable side effects.
Bangladesh J. Urol. 2022; 25(1): 33-66
The Outcome of Laparoscopic Ureterolithotomy-the Initial Experience in a Divisional Level Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Morshed Md Selim , Islam Md Shahidul , Haque Md Zahurul , Hasan Md Mahmood , Islam Novera , Rahman Md Mostafiger
Published: October 2023

Objectives : To see the outcome of laparoscopic ureterolithotomy as a beginner Methodology: This was an observational study that was conducted in the Department of Urology, Rangpur medical college from the period from January 2019 to June 2021. The patient’s ages range from 20 years to 60 years. The patients were selected from those with urinary stone disease and were admitted in the urology department. Those with large impacted stones in the ureter with good renal and cardiac functional status were selected. Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy via transperitoneal approach was performed in every case under general anesthesia. DJ stent was given in every case, and the ureterotomy wound was closed with 4-0 round body vicryl. All patients were mobilized and returned to oral feeding on the morning of 1st postoperative day. The catheter was removed on 2nd postoperative day, and the drain was removed on the third postoperative day if the drainage level fell below 50 mL. The D-J catheter was removed under local anesthesia between the second and fourth postoperative weeks. Complications were classified according to the modified Clavien classification system [12]. All patients were given follow-up for 3 months. IVU was done in every case to evaluate stricture at 3rd month of follow-up. The data were recorded and analyzed with Microsoft excel software 2021.
Result : Total 25 cases were recorded. The mean patient age was 39.3± 5.9 years. There were 16 male (63.3%) male and 9 (26.7%) female patients in the study. Stones were located on the right side in 17 (62.9%) patients and on the left side in 8 (37.1%) patients. The size of the stones varied from 12 to 19 mm, and the mean stone size was 15 ±2.5 mm. The mean operative time was 125± 8.9 minutes. Intraoperative insertion of the D-J stent was performed in all patients. The D-J catheter was removed under local anesthesia between the second and fourth postoperative weeks. Complications were classified according to the modified Clavien classification system [12].
Conclusion : Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy can be considered an intermediate step in gaining experience and developing the necessary skills in utilizing the laparoscopic approach in more complicated reconstructive or radical urological surgery. As a beginner in laparoscopic procedure, the outcome of this laparoscopic ureterolithotomy in our unit is satisfactory, and patient compliance is very good.
Bangladesh J. Urol. 2022; 25(1): 37-44
Historic photos related to Cardiac Surgery in Bangladesh
Authors: Hosain Nazmul
Published: October 2023

Abstract not available
Cardiovasc j 2023; 16(1): 56-58
Assessing the Efficiency of a Proposed Agrivoltaic System in Bangladesh to Ensure Multiple Uses of Land and Water
Authors: Shams S M Nasif , Mojumder Tanvir Hassan , Khan Md Fahim Hasan , Shuvo Kamrul Hasan
Published: October 2023

A new conceptual agrivoltaic system has been designed, developed, and tested in this study to assure multiple uses of land for energy and food production along with a Carbon Capturing Device (CCD), which is not yet practiced. Dust deposition on the solar panel of agrivoltaic system can impair power generation. As a result, regular cleaning of the solar panel is required for improved panel performance. However, dry cleaning is not always appropriate for effective cleaning when sticky materials, such as bird droppings or dirt, deposition on the panel. Depending on the size of the PV system, wet cleaning will take a large volume of water. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the proposed agrivoltaic system to explore the potential of sustainable ways of utilizing water for multiple applications. In the outdoor experiment, the developed prototype was tested. The amount of provided and recovered water was determined. Recycled water was used to grow Napier grass, water spinach, and fish. Within one month, yields from vegetation and fish were 8 kg and 426 grams, respectively. In addition, research has been conducted using carbon sequestration techniques to construct a CCD utilizing algae and recycled water. A comparative study of water and algae scrubbing found that algae washing removed 9.10% more CO2 from the sample gas than water scrubbing. Additional biogas scrubbing experiments demonstrated that the developed algal CCD eliminated 78% of the undesired H2S from biogas. The study finds that deploying the combined production technique for power and food can give a mutual advantage. The effective application of the aforementioned method might help to accomplish the following Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 13- Climate Action; SDG 7-Affordable and Clean Energy. It can provide environmental and economic sustainability by producing clean energy and conserving water. It is obvious that more research in this area is necessary, and the outcomes for various crops and geographical regions of the country and further improvement scopes should be investigated to determine the potential of agrivoltaic farming in Bangladesh.
The Dhaka University Journal of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Vol. 11(2), 2022: P 33-41
Further Education (FE) to Higher Education (HE) Progression Pathways
Authors: Murphy Lorraine , Walsh Ruth , O'Donovan Gillian , Caslin Clodagh
Published: October 2023

Equity of access to higher education (HE) has been a priority for the Irish Government over the last fifteen years. Since 2005, the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in Ireland has introduced three successive national strategic plans for equity of access, which demonstrates its importance in HE policy. The aim of these initiatives is to improve equity of access, participation and success in HE for disadvantaged students. The findings generated from the third of these strategic plans, indicate that although some progress has been made to support this integration from further education (FE) to HE, challenges remain with an acknowledgement that there is a need to establish transparent supporting structures for building coherent pathways from FE to HE. Higher-level qualifications are now a common expectation among the general population and in industry, reflecting increased ambition, labour market demand for higher-level skills, and the need to continually upskill and/or reskill. The objective of this empirical investigation is to identify the perceived barriers preventing students of FE from progressing to HE in Ireland. Like others who have investigated this topic this investigation adopted an interpretivist approach to enquiry and a case study methodological approach. Primary data was generated from in depth focus groups and qualitative surveys. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. The preliminary findings of the first phase of this investigation illustrate that student transition from FE to HE is multidimensional. Findings have supported the development of a draft Transitions Framework, which is currently being piloted with case study students. The ultimate goal is to pursue the effective implementation of the Transitions Framework.
Hamartoma affecting ampullary electroreceptors and epitheliotropic lymphoma in a captive electric eel Electrophorus varii
Authors: Baskerville W , Holder K , Chen P , LaDouceur EEB
Published: October 2023

Few reports are available describing lesions in captive electric eels Electrophorus spp. This report describes 2 types of cutaneous proliferative lesions (i.e. hamartoma and neoplasm) in a captive electric eel. Ampullary electroreceptor hamartomas appeared grossly as 2 discrete, smooth, pink, spherical, cutaneous masses measuring 6 and 18 mm in diameter. Histologically, hamartomas were composed of predominately spindle cells that were separated into lobules by a peripheral rim of polygonal cells. Spindle cells were arranged in vague streams and occasionally whorls within a myxomatous matrix. Polygonal cells arranged in variably sized trabeculae and cords within a pre-existing fibrovascular stroma surrounded the streams of spindle cells. Admixed with the polygonal cell population were multiple mucous glands and alarm cells, similar to those seen in normal regions of epidermis. Histochemical stains confirmed similar components in the normal ampullary electroreceptor as in the hamartomas. Lymphoma was also present, appearing grossly as patchy pitting, erythematous, and thickened areas of the skin affecting the entire animal. Lymphoma was diffusely infiltrating and expanding the epidermis, oral mucosa, and branchial mucosa up to 1.5 mm in thickness. It was composed of an unencapsulated, well-demarcated, moderately cellular neoplasm composed of lymphocytes arranged in small dense sheets and clusters that separated and effaced epidermal cells. This is the first report of lymphoma in an electric eel, and the first report of ampullary electroreceptor hamartoma in any animal species.
A new genotype of decapod hepanhamaparvovirus 1 (DHPV) from cultured Penaeus vannamei in South Korea
Authors: Choi MG , Hong SJ , Kim SM , Kim KH
Published: October 2023

Decapod hepanhamaparvovirus 1 (DHPV), also known as hepatopancreatic parvovirus (HPV), has caused death in larvae or stunted growth in juveniles of cultured shrimp. To date, 4 genotypes (genotype I, II, III, and IV) have been reported from various shrimp species and various geographical regions. In the present study, we isolated 2 types of DHPV (GHPV-Goseong and DHPV-Geoje) from cultured Penaeus vannamei in Korea. Based on the capsid protein (VP) amino acid sequences, DHPV-Goseong was highly identical to previously reported DHPV genotype IV in Taiwan and Korea. Different from DHPV-Goseong, DHPV-Geoje showed approximately 63% similarity with DHPV genotype I, II, III and 84% similarity with DHPV genotype IV, suggesting an independent new genotype of DHPV (genotype V). Further research is needed to elucidate the origin and biological meanings of the present new genotype.
RF safety assessment in ultra-high field MRI
Authors:   , Meliadò Ettore Flavio
Published: October 2023

The radiofrequency (RF) safety constraints remain a major factor limiting the quality and speed of ultra-high field magnetic resonance imaging (UHF-MRI) and the use of parallel transmission (pTx) technology.
Since the local Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) cannot be measured during an MRI examination, it is usually evaluated by off-line electromagnetic simulations using generic body models.
To avoid potential local SAR underestimation due to deviations between actual and simulated MR examination scenario (such as differences in patient anatomy and in positioning, loading and coupling of the RF transmit array elements), the current most common practices are to include a safety factor around 2 and/or consider the worst-case peak local SAR value. Thus, the MRI exam can take more than double the actually required time for the same image quality.
Software tools to perform on-line simulations using patient-specific body models are being developed but they still require a rather long on-line preparation time (to build the model, perform the simulations, and process the results).
In this thesis, several important contributions and new concepts aimed at improving the performance of UHF-MRI systems are presented, with the most relevant being: the trigonometric maximization method to determine the actual worst-case local SAR without any overestimation in a few milliseconds (Chapter 2); the introduction of the 99.9% safe peak local SAR assessment concept to be used as an alternative to the worst-case local SAR (emerged from the extensive inter-subject local SAR variability analysis in Chapter 3 and underlying the conditional safety margin presented in Chapter 5); the first Artificial Intelligence (AI) approach for local SAR assessment (Chapter 4); and a Bayesian framework to more effectively address the inevitable residual error in the local SAR estimate and to identify potentially dangerous situations (Chapter 6).
The use of these approaches reduced the mean local SAR overestimation error from over 100% to approximately 40%.
Becoming Pro-Palestinian: A ‘Self-History’
Authors: Sayigh Rosemary
Published: October 2023

Since the revolt of early oral historians such as Ronald Fraser and Alessandro Portelli against the state-based practice of classical history, it has become commonplace to adopt oral history theory and methods to record the experiences of subaltern groups excluded from mainstream history. Such excluded groups are many, among them workers, ethnic minorities, and the peoples of colonised countries such as Palestine. At the time of the expulsion of the majority of Palestinians from their country in 1948 there was little support for them in world public opinion. But over time, international solidarity has grown to a point where it constitutes a serious concern for the Israeli state, as Israeli violence towards the Palestinians under its control draws increasing criticism from the international community. I write here to trace the trajectory of someone who tried to join a kibbutz in 1951 but who found herself instead teaching in the Arab world, and from there discovering the Palestinian cause through oral history work with Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. This ‘self-history’ may serve an historical purpose through illustrating how opinion towards an important contemporary political issue may change in an individual case.
Analysis of the morphology of retinal vascular cells in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Middel Chiara Simone , Dietrich Nadine , Hammes Hans-Peter , Kroll Jens
Published: October 2023

Background: Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have been established in recent years as a model organism to study Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). Loss of endothelial cells and pericytes is an early hallmark sign of developing DR in the mammalian retina. However, morphology, numbers, ratios, and distributions of different vascular cells in the retinal compartment in zebrafish have not yet been analyzed and compared with the mammalian retina.

Methods: The retinal trypsin digest protocol was established on the zebrafish retina. Cell types were identified using the Tg(nflk:EGFP)-reporter line. Cells were quantified using quantitative morphometry.

Results: Vascular cells in the zebrafish retina have distinct morphologies and locations. Nuclei of vascular mural cells appear as long and flat nuclei located near the vessel wall. Round nuclei within the vessel walls can be identified as endothelial cells. The vessel diameter decreases from central to peripheral parts of the retina. Additionally, the numbers of vascular cells decrease from central to peripheral parts of the retina.

Discussion: The retinal trypsin digest protocol, which can be applied to the zebrafish retina, provides novel insights into the zebrafish retinal vascular architecture. Quantification of the different cell types shows that, in comparison to the mammalian retina, zebrafish have higher numbers of mural cells and an increased mural cell to endothelial cell ratio. This protocol enables to quantify mural cell and endothelial cell numbers, is easily adaptable to different transgenic and mutant zebrafish lines and will enable investigators to compare novel models on a single cell level.
The TRH test provides valuable information in the diagnosis of central hypothyroidism in patients with known pituitary disease and low T4 levels
Authors: Christensen Sara Ellegaard , Smith Liv Norma , Rosendal Christian Alexander H. , Gulisano Helga Angela , Ettrup Kåre Schmidt , Vestergaard Peter , Nielsen Eigil Husted , Karmisholt Jesper Scott , Dal Jakob
Published: October 2023

Objective

To evaluate the value of the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) test in the diagnosis of central hypothyroidism (CH) in patients with pituitary disease.

Methods

Systematic evaluation of 359 TRH tests in patients with pituitary disease including measurements of thyroxine (T4), TBG-corrected T4 (T4corr), baseline TSH (TSH0) and relative or absolute TSH increase (TSHfold, TSHabsolute).

Results

Patients diagnosed with CH (n=39) show comparable TSH0 (p-value 0.824) but lower T4corr (p-value <0.001) and lower TSH increase (p-value <0.001) compared to patients without CH. In 54% (42 of 78 cases) of patients with low T4corr, the CH diagnosis was rejected based on a high TSHfold. In these cases, a spontaneous increase and mean normalization in T4corr (from 62 to 73 nmol/L, p-value <0.001) was observed during the follow-up period (7.6 ± 5.0 years). Three of the 42 patients (7%) were started on replacement therapy due to spontaneous deterioration of thyroid function after 2.8 years. Patients diagnosed with CH reported significantly more symptoms of hypothyroidism (p-value 0.005), although, symptoms were reported in most patients with pituitary disease. The TRH test did not provide clinical relevant information in patients with normal T4 or patients awaiting pituitary surgery (78%, 281 of 359). There were only mild and reversible adverse effects related to the TRH test except for possibly one case (0.3%) experiencing a pituitary apoplexy.

Conclusion

The TRH test could be reserved to patients with pituitary disease, low T4 levels without convincing signs of CH. Approximately 50% of patients with a slightly decreased T4 were considered to have normal pituitary thyroid function based on the TRH test results.
Should energy efficiency be improved? the impact of energy efficiency improvements on green economic growth—evidence from China
Authors: Wu Lei , Zhu Chengao , Cheng Mengxuan , Dai Wen , Wang Guonian
Published: October 2023

Green economic growth is the main direction of China’s future economic development, while energy efficiency improvement—an important prerequisite for promoting the nation’s sustainable development—is a necessary way to guarantee its economic transformation and development. It is thus of great practical significance to study the relationship between energy efficiency improvement and green economic development. On the basis of analyzing the mechanism and how energy efficiency improvement influences green economic growth, this paper measures energy efficiency with the SBM model and constructs a system of green economic growth index, and verifies the relationship between energy efficiency improvement and green economic growth with an econometric model empirical analysis. It is found that, on the whole, the improvement of energy efficiency at this stage in China inhibits green economic growth. However, with the improvement of energy efficiency level, the inhibition effect gradually weakens, showing a non-linear trajectory of “inhibition–inhibition weakening”. At present, China’s energy rebound effect is still on the rise in the short term, and green economic development is restrained to a certain extent. The current expansion of the industrial sector will exacerbate resource consumption and pollutant emissions, while technological innovation and urbanization levels will alleviate the current energy rebound tension. The paper concludes with recommendations from the perspectives of the government, R&D institutions and personnel, the power sector, and urbanization.
Genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 omicron variants in Delhi reveals alterations in immunogenic regions in spike glycoprotein
Authors: Shikha Sristy , Jogi Mukesh Kumar , Jha Ruchika , Kumar Rana Amit , Sah Tathagat , Singh Pushpendra , Sagar Ritu , Kumar Anuj , Marwal Robin , Ponnusamy Kalaiarasan , Agarwal Subhash Mohan , Kumar R. Suresh , Arif Nazneen , Bharadwaj Mausumi , Singh Shalini , Kumar Pramod
Published: October 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 omicron variants keep accumulating a large number of mutations in the spike (S) protein, which contributes to greater transmissibility and a rapid rise to dominance within populations. The identification of mutations and their affinity to the cellular angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptor and immune evasion in the Delhi NCR region was under-acknowledged. The study identifies some mutations (Y505 reversion, G339H, and R346T/N) in genomes from Delhi, India, and their probable implications for altering the immune response and binding affinity for ACE-2. The spike mutations have influenced the neutralizing activity of antibodies against the omicron variant, which shows partial immune escape. However, researchers are currently exploring various mitigation strategies to tackle the potential decline in efficacy or effectiveness against existing and future variants of SARS-CoV-2. These strategies include modifying vaccines to target specific variants, such as the omicron variant, developing multivalent vaccine formulations, and exploring alternative delivery methods. To address this, it is also necessary to understand the impact of these mutations from a different perspective, especially in terms of alterations in antigenic determinants. In this study, we have done whole genome sequencing (WGS) of SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 samples from Delhi, NCR, and analyzed the spike’s mutation with an emphasis on antigenic alterations. The impact of mutation in terms of epitope formation, loss/gain of efficiency, and interaction of epitopes with antibodies has been studied. Some of the mutations or variant genomes seem to be the progenitors of the upcoming variants in India. Our analyses suggested that weakening interactions with antibodies may lead to immune resistance in the circulating genomes.
Nuclease activity and protein A release of Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates determine the virulence in a murine model of acute lung infection
Authors: Ludwig Nadine , Thörner-van Almsick Julia , Mersmann Sina , Bardel Bernadette , Niemann Silke , Chasan Achmet Imam , Schäfers Michael , Margraf Andreas , Rossaint Jan , Kahl Barbara C. , Zarbock Alexander , Block Helena
Published: October 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of hospital-acquired pneumonia associated with high mortality. Adequate clinical treatment is impeded by increasing occurrence of antibiotic resistances. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of its virulence during infections is a prerequisite to finding alternative treatments. Here, we demonstrated that an increased nuclease activity of a S. aureus isolate from a person with cystic fibrosis confers a growth advantage in a model of acute lung infection compared to the isogenic strain with low nuclease activity. Comparing these CF-isolates with a common MRSA-USA300 strain with similarly high nuclease activity but significantly elevated levels of Staphylococcal Protein A (SpA) revealed that infection with USA300 resulted in a significantly increased bacterial burden in a model of murine lung infection. Replenishment with the cell wall-bound SpA of S. aureus, which can also be secreted into the environment and binds to tumor necrosis factor receptor -1 (TNFR-1) to the CF-isolates abrogated these differences. In vitro experiments confirmed significant differences in spa-expression between USA300 compared to CF-isolates, thereby influencing TNFR-1 shedding, L-selectin shedding, and production of reactive oxygen species through activation of ADAM17.
A phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor reduces lung inflammation and fibrosis in a hamster model of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Kolloli Afsal , Ramasamy Santhamani , Kumar Ranjeet , Nisa Annuurun , Kaplan Gilla , Subbian Selvakumar
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection involves pulmonary inflammation that can progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome, a primary cause of lung damage/fibrosis in patients with Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19). Currently, there is no efficacious therapy available to alleviate lung fibrosis in COVID-19 cases. In this proof-of-concept study, we evaluated the effect of CC-11050, a small molecule phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, in dampening lung inflammation and fibrosis in a hamster model of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

Following intranasal inoculation with SARS-CoV-2/WA- 1/2000 strain, hamsters were treated with CC-11050 or placebo by gavage from day-1 until day-16 post-infection (dpi). Animals were monitored for body weight changes, virus titers, histopathology, fibrotic remodeling, cellular composition in the lungs between 2 and 16 dpi.

Results

We observed significant reduction in lung viral titer with concomitant reduction in inflammation and fibrotic remodeling in CC-11050 treated hamsters compared to untreated animals. The reductions in immunopathologic manifestations were associated with significant downregulation of inflammatory and fibrotic remodeling gene expression, reduced infiltration of activated monocytes, granulocytes, and reticular fibroblasts in CC-11050 treated animals. Cellular studies indicate a link between TNF-α and fibrotic remodeling during CC-11050 therapy.

Discussion

These findings suggest that CC-11050 may be a potential host-directed therapy to dampen inflammation and fibrosis in COVID-19 cases.
The influence of deoxygenation on Caribbean coral larval settlement and early survival
Authors: Mallon Jennifer E. , Demko Alyssa M. , Sneed Jennifer M. , Newman Lilyana , Dugan Carle , Altieri Andrew H. , Paul Valerie Jean , Johnson Maggie D.
Published: October 2023

Deoxygenation is emerging as a major threat to coral reefs where it can have catastrophic effects, including mass coral mortality. Some coral species cannot survive more than a few days of exposure to low oxygen conditions, while others can tolerate deoxygenation for weeks, suggesting that coral tolerance to lowered dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations is species-specific. However, hypoxia thresholds for corals have not yet been fully defined, and more information is needed to understand if tolerance to deoxygenation is consistent across all life stages. In this study, we tested the influence of severe (1.5 mg L-1 DO) and intermediate (3.5 mg L-1 DO) deoxygenation on larval settlement and survival during the early recruitment life phase of Colpophyllia natans, Orbicella faveolata, and Pseudodiploria strigosa. Exposure to deoxygenation over a 3-day settlement period did not significantly impact larval survival nor settlement rates compared to ambient DO concentrations (6 mg L-1 DO) for all three species. However, recruit survivorship in C. natans and O. faveolata after further exposure to severe deoxygenation was reduced compared to intermediate deoxygenation and control DO conditions. After 45 days of exposure to severe deoxygenation only 2.5 ± 2.5% of the initial O. faveolata had survived the larval and recruit stages compared to 22.5 ± 4.5% in control oxygen conditions. Similarly, C. natans survival was 13.5 ± 6.0% under severe deoxygenation, compared to 41.0 ± 4.4% in the control treatment. In contrast, survival of P. strigosa larvae and recruits was not different under deoxygenation treatments compared to the control, and higher overall, relative to the other species, indicating that P. strigosa is more resilient to severe deoxygenation conditions during its earliest life stages. This study provides unique insights into species-specific variation in the tolerance of coral recruits to deoxygenation with implications for whether this life history stage may be a demographic bottleneck for three ecologically important Caribbean coral species. Given the increasing frequency and severity of deoxygenation events in Caribbean coastal waters, these results are an important contribution to the growing body of research on deoxygenation as a threat to coral reef persistence in the Anthropocene, with implications for conservation and restoration efforts integrating coral recruitment into reef recovery efforts.
Creep subsidence prediction algorithm considering the effect of stress history for subgrades
Authors: Huang Jian , Lu Xusheng , Hu Hexiang
Published: October 2023

In this study, the power function model was modified to explain the creep strain of coarse-grain and fine-grain soils in a uniform manner. And then, two creep subsidence prediction algorithms considering stress history and without considering stress history were proposed based on the modified power function model and Bjerrum’s reclassification of consolidation. The two proposed algorithms were in comparison with two widely used subsidence prediction algorithms in practical engineering based on field subsidence observation data from the subgrade of Haolebaoji-Ji’an Railway. According to the comparison results, the prediction algorithm considering stress history provides a more precise and reliable prediction over two conventional algorithms with a limited amount of available observation data. However, the prediction algorithm without considering stress history have poor prediction results.
Medication only improves limb movements while deep brain stimulation improves eye and limb movements during visually-guided reaching in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Munoz Miranda J. , Arora Rishabh , Rivera Yessenia M. , Drane Quentin H. , Pal Gian D. , Verhagen Metman Leo , Sani Sepehr B. , Rosenow Joshua M. , Goelz Lisa C. , Corcos Daniel M. , David Fabian J.
Published: October 2023

Background

Antiparkinson medication and subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS), two common treatments of Parkinson’s disease (PD), effectively improve skeletomotor movements. However, evidence suggests that these treatments may have differential effects on eye and limb movements, although both movement types are controlled through the parallel basal ganglia loops.

Objective

Using a task that requires both eye and upper limb movements, we aimed to determine the effects of medication and STN-DBS on eye and upper limb movement performance.

Methods

Participants performed a visually-guided reaching task. We collected eye and upper limb movement data from participants with PD who were tested both OFF and ON medication (n = 34) or both OFF and ON bilateral STN-DBS while OFF medication (n = 11). We also collected data from older adult healthy controls (n = 14).

Results

We found that medication increased saccade latency, while having no effect on reach reaction time (RT). Medication significantly decreased saccade peak velocity, while increasing reach peak velocity. We also found that bilateral STN-DBS significantly decreased saccade latency while having no effect on reach RT, and increased saccade and reach peak velocity. Finally, we found that there was a positive relationship between saccade latency and reach RT, which was unaffected by either treatment.

Conclusion

These findings show that medication worsens saccade performance and benefits reaching performance, while STN-DBS benefits both saccade and reaching performance. We explore what the differential beneficial and detrimental effects on eye and limb movements suggest about the potential physiological changes occurring due to treatment.
Evaluation of sustainable and healthy eating behaviors and adherence to the planetary health diet index in Turkish adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Macit-Çelebi Melahat Sedanur , Bozkurt Osman , Kocaadam-Bozkurt Betul , Köksal Eda
Published: October 2023

Aim

The Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) is a relatively new index, and studies about its relationship with eating behaviors, nutritional status, and obesity in adults are very limited. For this reason, in this study, sustainable healthy eating behaviors of individuals and compliance of their diets with PHDI were evaluated.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,112 adults (70.1% women and 29.9% men with mean age = 28.7 years, SE = 9.47). Study data were obtained with the face-to-face interview method via a questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, the Sustainable and Healthy Eating (SHE) Behaviors Scale, and 24-h dietary recall. PHDI was evaluated for adherence to EAT-Lancet Commission recommendations.

Results

The average PHDI total score was 41.5 points. Higher SHE Behaviors Scale and PHDI scores were observed in participants with a duration of education above 8 years (p < 0.05). Those with lower SHE Behaviors Scale and PHDI scores were more likely to be obese (p < 0.001). The total PHDI score was positively associated with fiber, vitamin E, potassium, and folate, and negatively associated with pyridoxine and calcium (p < 0.05). The total SHE Behaviors Scale score was positively associated with carbohydrates, fiber, and potassium and negatively associated with pyridoxine, calcium, and energy (p < 0.05). A one-unit increase in SHE Behaviors Scale total score resulted in a 5,530 unit (95%CI: 4.652; 6.407) increase in PHDI total score and a one-unit increase in duration of education (years) resulted in a 0.660 unit (95%CI: 0.403; 0.918) increase in PHDI total score. Furthermore, a one-unit increase in Body Mass Index (BMI) (kg/m2) resulted in a − 0.218 unit (95%CI: −0.424; −0.013) decrease in PHDI total score.

Conclusion

The participants’ PHDI index scores were low; therefore, the adherence to the EAT-Lancet recommendation was low which might be associated with obesity. Clinical studies evaluating the effects of adherence to sustainable diets on adequate and balanced nutrition and health outcomes are recommended.
Two cases of unilateral limbal Vernal keratoconjunctivitis in the same family: first case report
Authors: Michieletto Paola , Sica Attilio , Barbi Egidio , Pensiero Stefano
Published: October 2023

This case report describes two cases of unilateral limbal Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) in the same family. To our knowledge, these are the first two reported cases of unilateral limbal VKC. VKC is a chronic inflammatory disease that typically affects both eyes, with unilateral cases being rare and previously only reported in the tarsal form. Our first case involved a 12-year-old girl with a history of allergic asthma, who had been experiencing conjunctivitis in her right eye since the age of 7. Upon examination, she was diagnosed with unilateral limbal VKC and treated with 1% cyclosporine eye drops with a significant improvement observed at the one and three-month follow-ups. Her 7-year-old brother was also examined and found to have unilateral limbal VKC in his right eye, although it was milder and not associated with allergic pathogenesis. Therefore, in this case, a treatment with hydrocortisone eye drops was started leading to an immediate reduction of the itching. In both cases an IgE-mediated mechanism is less likely because of the monolateral eye involvement, the complete absence of nasal symptoms, the lack of correlation between symptoms and any pollen season, and the negative prick skin test in one of the two siblings. Both cases suggest that unilateral VKC may occur even in the limbal form and that genetic mechanisms may contribute to the inflammatory reaction in VKC. This report highlights the need for further studies to explain the occurrence of unilateral VKC cases and reminds clinicians to consider the possibility of unilateral limbal VKC in pediatric patients.
Hypogravity modeling of upper extremities: an investigation of manual handling in the workplace
Authors: Maillard Tatiana
Published: October 2023

Experiments on the lower limbs are the only approaches being used to study how hypogravity (HG) (0 < g < 1, e.g., Moon: 1/6 g, Mars: 3/8 g) affects human movement. The goal of this study was to expand this field experimentally by investigating the effect of HG on the upper extremities during one-handed manual handling tasks in a sitting posture: static weight holding with an outstretched arm, and slow repetitive weight lifting and lowering motions. The hypothesis was that while completing static and dynamic tasks with elements of repetition in HG, the upper body’s tilt (angle regarding the vertical axis) would change differently from Earth’s gravity. Specifically, upper arm and spine angles, joint torques, and forces were investigated. Twenty-four healthy participants aged 33.6 ± 8.2 years were involved in the trial. Joint angles were examined using vision-based 3D motion analysis. According to this investigation, there is a correlation between a body tilting backward and a gravity level reduction (p < 0.01). Thus, HG causes postural deviation, and this shows that workplace design must be adapted according to the level of gravity to promote comfortable and balanced body alignment, minimizing stress on muscles and joints. To lower the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), enhance overall performance, and increase job satisfaction, proper support systems and restrictions for sitting positions should be taken into account, concerning different levels of gravity.