bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust Steganography in Practical Communication: A Comparative Study
Authors: Qiao Tong , Xu Shengwang , Wang Shuai , Wu Xiaoshuai , Liu Bo , Zheng Ning , Xu Ming , Pan Binmin
Published: August 2023

In order to realize the act of covert communication in a public channel, steganography is proposed. In the current study, modern adaptive steganography plays a dominant role due to its high undetectability. However, the effectiveness of modern adaptive steganography is challenged when being applied in practical communication such as over social network. Several robust steganographic methods have been proposed while the comparative study between them is still unknown. Thus, we propose a framework to generalize the current typical steganographic methods resisting against compression attack, and meanwhile empirically analyze advantages and disadvantages of them based on four baseline indicators, referring to as capacity, imperceptibility, undetectability, and robustness. More importantly, the robustness performance of the methods is compared in the real application such as on Facebook, Twitter, and WeChat, which has not been comprehensively addressed in this community.
Discrete Streamflow Measurements and Waterborne Self-Potential Logging of a 43-Kilometer-Long Reach of the Elm Fork Trinity River Upstream from Dallas, Texas
Authors: Thomas Jonathan Van , Ikard Scott , Trader Roger , Rodriguez David
Published: August 2023

Continuous and discrete streamflow data were combined with waterborne self-potential (WaSP), surface-water temperature and surface-water conductivity surveys obtained along an approximately 43-kilometer (26.7 miles) surveyed reach of the Elm Fork Trinity River (hereinafter referred to as “Elm Fork”) upstream from Dallas, Texas, to investigate areas of gaining and losing streamflow under various streamflow and seasonal climatic conditions. Discrete streamflow measurements were made at 17 locations on October 12, 2021, and January 25, 2022, at 19 locations on May 17, 2022, and at 18 locations on August 9, 2022. WaSP data were measured from a kayak in January 2022 during a period of base flow along three individually surveyed reaches between the Lake Lewisville Dam and Frasier Dam on the Elm Fork. Together, these data indicated different parts of the Elm Fork functioned as either a gaining or losing stream depending on streamflow and seasonal climatic conditions. Overall, there were estimated net gains in streamflow during the first two discrete-measurement events of about 107 cubic feet per second (ft3/s) and 2 ft3/s in October 2021 and January 2022, respectively, and estimated net losses in streamflow in May 2022 and August 2022 of about 24 ft3/s and 18 ft3/s, respectively.
Understanding the Effect of Deposition Potential on the Electrodeposited Tin Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: ATEŞ Mehmet Nurullah
Published: August 2023

Tin (Sn) is an emerging anode candidate for Li-ion batteries. Due to its high availability and low cost, researchers are studying Sn anode as a next-generation anode alternative for Li-ion batteries (LIB). In this study, we have investigated the electroplated Sn anode obtained from the aqueous media. We have utilized the electrodeposition method for synthesizing pure tin anode on the copper current collector. Aqueous media comprised of tin salt, surface activator, adhesive agent, buffering, and the complexing agent was utilized for obtaining pure tin without using any binder and a conductive agent. Deposition potentials and their effect on the particle morphology and crystal structure were investigated. To enhance the electrochemical performance, we coated the tin anode with the conducting polymer coating and further analyzed the effect of the heat treatment on the polymer-coated tin anodes. The electrochemical performance and physicochemical properties of the electrodeposited Sn electrode were characterized by, Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray Diffraction, and electrochemical techniques. As the voltage of the coating potential increases, it has been observed that the tin particles further enlarge. No difference is observed in X-ray diffraction results for the tin electrodes obtained at different voltages. Coating voltage values of -0.8V and -0.9V have provided ideal electrochemical results. Although polymer coating has a positive effect on the initial capacity value, it has been observed that it does not have sufficient improvement in cycle life.
Amfibi Yumurta Jel Katmanları; Morfolojik Yapısı ve İçeriği, Fertilizasyon Üzerine Etkisi ve İmmünobiyolojik Aktivites
Authors: KOÇ BİLİCAN Behlül , KAYA Murat
Published: August 2023

Amfibiler, sucul yaşam ile karasal yaşam arasında bir köprü görevi gören Anura, Urodela ve Gymnophiona olmak üzere 3 takıma ayrılan ve dünyada 8000’den fazla türe sahip olan soğukkanlı omurgalı canlılardır. Bununla birlikte, kozmopolit olmaları, kolay kültüre edilebilmeleri, çift yaşamlı olmaları ve potansiyel klinik uygulamaları sayesinde birçok çalışmaya konu olmuştur. Çoğu hayvan türünün olgun yumurtaları, vitellin zar, jel ve zona pellusida gibi hücre dışı katmanlar veya yapılarla çevrilidir. Amfibi yumurtaları bu yapılardan bir vitellin zarf ile yapısal ve kimyasal olarak farklı birkaç jel tabakayla çevrilidir. Bu jel tabaka, amfibi yumurtalarının karakteristik bir özelliğidir. Suda çözünmeyen jelatinimsi bir matris olarak tanımlanmaktadırlar. Dışardan bakıldığında oldukça basit yapılı görünen bu jel tabakalar doğada zorlu ortam şartlarına karşı embriyoyu korumakta, beslemekte, büyümesine ve gelişmesine olanak sağlamaktadırlar. Bu denli önemli bir görev gören amfibi yumurta jeli üzerine literatürde yer alan bilgiler oldukça sınırlıdır. Bu derlemede amfibi yumurta jelinin morfolojik yapısı, içeriği, fertilizasyon üzerine olan etkisi ve immünobiyolojik aktivitesi ele alınmıştır.
“AFINIDADES ELETIVAS” ENTRE PAUL SINGER E RAYMOND WILLIAMS
Authors: Nascimento Claudio
Published: August 2023

Este ensaio traça ‘afinidades eletivas’ (Michael Löwy) entre as ideias de dois teóricos da autogestão: o brasileiro Paul Singer e o inglês Raymond Williams. Alguns eixos temáticos se destacam: ‘revolução longa’, ‘educação de adultos”, “socialismo”, “autogestão”, “saberes”, “estrutura de sentimento”, “educação popular”. Em Singer e Williams destaca-se a influência de Antonio Gramsci, com sua ideia de ‘hegemonia cultural’. Em conclusão, podemos ver que as ideias dos dois teóricos são fundamentais para uma política educativa no campo da pedagogia da autogestão/economia Solidária.
MULHERES QUILOMBOLAS DA COMUNIDADE DE LAGOA GRANDE
Authors: Messias Ana Regina , Oliveira Lima José Raimundo
Published: August 2023

Na Incubadora de Iniciativas de Economia Popular e Solidária (IEPS) da Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana (UEFS), no Grupo de Estudos e Pesquisas sobre Economia Popular e Solidária e Desenvolvimento Local Solidário (GEPOSDEL), há muitas discussões sobre a Economia Popular e Solidária (EPS), economia abordada neste texto, que tem como objetivo apresentar mulheres da comunidade de Lagoa Grande, as quais, conforme a EPS, produzem e comercializam produtos e visam o desenvolvimento local. A investigação escolhida é exploratória e para proceder a investigação, a opção escolhida é a pesquisa de campo, por meio de entrevista com mulheres do grupo Sabores do Quilombo e mulheres da comunidade, ainda, com o aporte bibliográfico buscar-se-á responder ao questionamento que move esta pesquisa. Porém, neste artigo não se encerra a pesquisa e cabe dar continuidade, por tudo o que tem sido observado, especialmente pelas afirmativas das mulheres entrevistadas quanto à importância da participação da UEFS na Comunidade de Lagoa Grande, por meio da IEPS, lhes orientando a respeito da Economia Popular e Solidária com vistas ao desenvolvimento local, em um processo efetivo de parceria.
DIALOGO TRANSCULTURAL, TRANSFRONTERIZO Y TRANSFORMADOR RECORDANDO PAUL SINGER
Authors: Müller-Plantenberg Clarita
Published: August 2023

El articulo cuenta de las etapas del dialogo entre Paul Singer y sus amigos en asociaciones de estudiantes en Alemania, sus colegas en ciencias sociales, economía y sociología en Universidades Alemanas, sus estudiantes en Alemania. Al primer encuentro siguen diálogos promovidos por publicaciones a fin de compartir el análisis, aportes al anuario América Latina y Boletín de Noticias América Latina, luego por intercambios de docentes y estudiantes y congresos de economía solidaria. Por estos y por visitas conociendo empresas de economía solidaria en los dos países se promovió un dialogo acerca de políticas públicas alcanzadas por los movimientos sociales y sus diversas formas de organización y sus procesos de estudios y procesos de aprendizaje y comunicación. Resaltamos el ejemplo brasilero de la secretaria nacional de Economía Solidaria de partir del individuo, del ciudadano que se asocia, de servir a las empresas autogestionadas y a organizar Asambleas Nacionales para todos los que se organizaron en los foros regionales. La memoria y dedicación de Paul Singer abre camino para un dialogo transfronteriza, transcultural y transformador a largo plazo.
BEM VIVER E ECONOMIA SOLIDÁRIA
Authors: Justo Marcelo , Schiavinatto Mônica
Published: August 2023

O artigo tem como objetivo analisar o debate conceitual sobre bem viver e apontar a concepção de economia solidária defendida por Paul Singer como resposta à problematização sobre aquele conceito. Por meio de revisão bibliográfica sobre o conceito de bem viver, de intelectuais que participaram de governos progressistas e/ou atuaram junto a movimentos sociais, foi possível identificar duas questões para aprofundar: A) Bem viver seria um conceito a superar o de desenvolvimento? B) Bem viver é um conceito maior de emancipação social que abarcaria os demais ou ele é horizontal e dialoga com outras lutas progressistas? Pretende-se demonstrar que a teorização de Singer sobre economia e desenvolvimento solidários responde à primeira pergunta e mostrar que ela está de acordo com a concepção do diálogo entre as lutas. O artigo mostra que o debate sobre a relação entre economia solidária e bem viver ganhou força a partir dos anos de 2010 e contribui para aprofundá-lo com as concepções de Singer.
Systematic Analysis of the Therapy Resistance Genes and their Prognostic
Relevance in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Eswaran Sangavi , Padavu Mythili , Kumar Dileep , Kabekkodu Shama Prasada
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Critical issues in the therapeutic management of cervical cancer (CC) include therapy
resistance and treatment failure. The development of therapy resistance is a multifaceted, progressive process,
including genetic and epigenetic abnormalities. The present study aimed to identify genes that may contribute
to therapy resistance in CC.

Materials and Methods:

We have created an extensive list of the genes in cancer that are therapy-resistant using
a text-mining approach. The list was compared with the TCGA-CESC dataset to identify the differentially
expressed therapy resistance genes (DETRGs) in CC. We used online resources (UALCAN, DNMIVD, cBio-
Portal, HCMDB, OncoDB, ShinyGO, HPA, KM Plotter, TIMER, and DGIdb) to determine the potential association
between methylation and expression of therapy resistance genes with the prognosis and clinical outcomes
in CC.

Results:

The systematic analysis identified 71 out of 91 DETRGs showed aberrant DNA methylation. The overlapping
analysis identified 25 genes to show an inverse correlation between methylation and expression. Further,
differential expression or methylation could be helpful in CC staging, HPV association, prediction of metastasis
and prognosis. The study identified seven driver genes in CC. The PPIN identifies ten hub genes (HGs)
associated with CC staging, cancer hallmarks, and prognosis to affect long-term survival.

Conclusion:

Our thorough investigation uncovered several novel genes and pathways that might contribute to
therapy resistance in CC. The genes identified in our study may serve as a biomarker, prognostic indicator, and
therapeutic target in CC.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in COVID-19: In silico Identification of
LncRNA-MiRNA-Gene Networks and Key Transcription Factors
Authors: Sheikhshabani Somayeh Hashemi , Amini-Farsani Zeinab , Kazemifard Nesa , Modarres Parastoo , Feyzabad Sharareh Khazaei , Amini-Farsani Zahra , Shaygan Nasibeh , Omrani Mir Davood , Ghafouri-Fard Soudeh
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

Acute kidney injury (AKI) accounts for up to 29% of severe COVID-19 cases and increases
mortality among these patients. Viral infections participate in the pathogenesis of diseases by changing the
expression profile of normal transcriptome. This study attempts to identify LncRNA-miRNA-gene and TF-gene
networks as gene expression regulating networks in the kidney tissues of COVID-19 patients.

Methods:

In this analysis, four kidney libraries from the GEO repository were considered. To conduct the preprocessing,
Deseq2 software in R was used for the purpose of data normalization and log2 transformation. In addition,
pre- and post-normalization, PCA and box plots were developed using ggplot2 software in R for quality
control. The expression profiles of the kidney samples of COVID-19 patients and control individuals were compared
using DEseq2 software in R. The considered significance thresholds for DEGs were Adj P value < 0.05
and |logFC| >2. Then, to predict molecular interactions in lncRNA-miRNA-gene networks, different databases,
including DeepBase v3.0, miRNATissueAtlas2, DIANA-LncBase v3, and miRWalk, were used. Furthermore,
by employing ChEA databases, interactions at the TF-Gene level were obtained. Finally, the obtained networks
were plotted using Stringdb and Cytoscape v8.

Results:

Results obtained from the comparison of the post-mortem kidney tissue samples of the COVID-19 patients
with the healthy kidney tissue samples showed significant changes in the expression of more than 2000
genes. In addition, predictions regarding the miRNA-gene interaction network based on DEGs obtained from
this meta-analysis showed that 11 miRNAs targeted the obtained DEGs. Interestingly, in the kidney tissue, these
11 miRNAs interacted with LINC01874, LINC01788, and LINC01320, which have high specificity for this
tissue. Moreover, four transcription factors of EGR1, SMAD4, STAT3, and CHD1 were identified as key transcription
factors regulating DEGs. Taken together, the current study showed several dysregulated genes in the
kidney of patients affected with COVID-19.

Conclusion:

This study suggests lncRNA-miRNA-gene networks and key TFs as new diagnostic and therapeutic
targets for experimental and preclinical studies.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking Studies and Biological Evaluation of N-(α-Benzamido Cinnamoyl) Piperonal Hydrazones
Authors: Saritha Karnati , Devi Tangirala Sarala , Rani Murthi Vidya , Kumar Katari Sudheer , Umamaheswari Amineni , Rajitha Galla
Published: August 2023

Background:

Nowadays, inflammation is recognized as the underlying cause of a number of diseases, but NSAIDs are the first drug of choice, having several side effects. Additionally, excessive cellular oxidative stress is often considered a major contributor to pathophysiological conditions, the development of cancer, and other diseases. Antimicrobial resistance is a global concern, hence, there is a critical need for the development of novel therapeutic agents to fight the emergence and increasing prevalence of resistant pathogens. This creates an initiation to introduce new molecules which act as efficient therapeutic agents with diminished side effects.

Objective:

As a part of our search for newer agents with enhanced activity profiles, it was planned to synthesize novel 2- (benzamido)-N-((benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl)methylene)-3-(substituted phenyl) acrylohydrazides and to investigate them for antiinflammatory, antioxidant, cytotoxic, antimicrobial activities. Furthermore, in silico studies were performed for title compounds to predict molecular properties, bioavailability, drug-likeness, and bioactivity scores, molecular docking studies were also performed against biological targets.

Methods:

The title compounds 1-14 were synthesized by nucleophilic addition of piperonal in ethanol, few drops of acetic acid to the intermediate 2-(benzamido)-3-(aryl)acrylohydrazides. The title compounds were tested for their antiinflammatory activity by in vivo carrageenan-induced rat paw edema method, in vitro COX-2 inhibition assay; in vitro cytotoxic activity evaluation by MTT assay; antioxidant activity by Lipid peroxidation, DPPH assay, Nitric Oxide scavenging assay and Hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay; and antimicrobial activity by cup plate method. Physicochemical properties and bioactive scores of title compounds were evaluated by in silico studies. Molecular docking studies were carried out for the title compounds against COX-2 (PDB: 5F19) and EGFR (PDB:1XKK).

Results:

Among the series, 4-Hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxy derivative (5) displayed good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities; Vanillinyl derivative (4) displayed good cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity when compared to that of the respective standards. Compounds 5 & 4 also exhibited good docking scores with COX-2 and EGFR, respectively. All title compounds obeyed Lipinski’s rule of five and also exhibited acceptable molecular properties, drug-likeness properties, and moderate to good bioactivity scores in in silico studies.

Conclusion:

The study suggested that the title compounds showed notable pharmacological properties, could emerge as lead compounds, and be further explored as promising therapeutic agents.
Exploring Brazilian Natural Products as Potential Bioactive Compounds against Trypanosoma cruzi by Targeting Squalene Synthase
Authors: Paschoal Caroline Reis Santiago , Rabelo Vitor Won-Held , de Oliveira Tamillis Figueiredo , Abreu Paula Alvarez
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Chagas disease is a neglected disease caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma
cruzi that affects 7 million people worldwide. The current treatment is limited due to safety and efficacy
issues. Therefore, the search for new antiparasitic drugs is fundamental. The enzyme squalene synthase
(SQS) is an attractive therapeutic target since it participates in the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway.

Objective:

In the present study, we explored the Brazilian biodiversity to search for potential inhibitors of T. cruzi SQS (TcSQS) using ligand and structure-based virtual screening strategies.

Materials and Methods:

A virtual screening was performed within the NUBBE database, with more than 2,200 natural products (NP) or semisynthetic derivatives from the Brazilian biodiversity. Molecular docking and ADMET predictions were then performed.

Results:

A set of 12 NP showed interactions with TcSQS like those observed by known inhibitors and shared literature evidence that supports the predicted activity.

Conclusion:

Three compounds (flavonoids) showed good ADMET properties as potential inhibitors of TcSQS.
Pre-operative Neo-adjuvant Chemotherapy Related miRNAs as Key
Regulators and Therapeutic Targets in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Yalav Orcun , Sonmezler Ozge , Erdogan Kivilcim Eren , Rencuzogullari Ahmet , Doran Figen , Bisgin Atil , Boga Ibrahim
Published: August 2023

Background:

In colorectal cancer, the investigation of cancer pathogenesis and the determination
of the relevant gene and gene pathways is particularly important to provide a basis for
treatment-oriented studies. miRNAs which affect gene regulation in the molecular pathogenesis of
cancer, have an active role in carcinogenesis. In the literature, miRNA expression levels have been
associated with metastasis and prognosis in different cancers.

Objective:

In our study, expression profiling of miRNAs involved in oncogenic and apoptotic
pathways in patients with locally advanced colorectal cancer receiving neoadjuvant therapy was
performed.

Methods:

miRNAs were isolated from three different FFPE tissue samples taken at different times
of the same patient (tumor tissue taken at the time of diagnosis, normal tissue samples, and after
neoadjuvant therapy). The expression analysis of 84 miRNAs determined by PCR array (Fluidigm,
USA) and mediated meta-analysis was performed comparatively to each study and non-cancerous
control group. Evaluations were performed with ΔΔCT calculations.

Results:

As a result of the miRNA PCR array study, in addition to differences were observed in
miRNA expression between control and study groups. The potential biomarkers which were hsamiR-
215-5p, hsa-miR-9-59, hsa-miR-193a-5p, hsa-miR-206, hsa-miR-1, hsa-miR-96-5p have been
detected for possible treatment resistance, prognosis and predispositions to cancers.

Conclusion:

In patients with colorectal cancer, miRNA expression in the tumoral regions before
and after neoadjuvant therapy has represented a variable pattern. It has been shown that miRNA
studies can be used to predict the clinical course and response to treatment with differences in expression
levels. It has been concluded that specific miRNAs may be candidate biomarkers for colorectal
cancer.
Fighting H. pylori with Medicinal Plants: A Study on Jordan's Traditional
Remedies
Authors: Mayyas Amal , Abu-Qatouseh Luay , Abu Sini Mohammad , Amr Rula , Akasheh Rand T. , Alrabadi Nasr , Darwish Rula M. , Aburjai Talal
Published: August 2023

Aims of the Study:

This study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of some medicinal plants used among Jordanians for the treatment of gastritis and gastric ulcers against H. pylori. Moreover, plants' inhibitory activity against the H. pylori urease enzyme was also evaluated.

Materials and Methods:

The activity of 11 medicinal plants used by common people and herbalists to treat ulcers was evaluated against H. pylori (NCTC 11916). Ethanol and essential oil extracts from the tested plants were evaluated using a standard agar dilution method and the MICs were determined. Furthermore, the potential inhibitory effect of each preparation was tested against the enzyme urease using a kinetic colorimetric assay.

Results:

Cinnamomum cassia oil showed the highest efficiency against H. pylori with the lowest MIC (0.0122 mg.mL-1), followed by Origanum syriacum and Foeniculum vulgare (MICs of 0.39 mg.mL-1). Furthermore, significant urease inhibition activity was recorded for Carum carvi oil (IC50~0.45 mg.mL-1). C. cassia oil (IC50 ~2.8 mg.mL-1), Aloysia citriodora, and Artemisia Judaica (IC50 5.8 mg.mL-1) reported potential urease inhibition activities.

Conclusion:

Herbs used in Jordanian traditional medicine were found to have anti-H. pylori and significant urease inhibitory activity. These findings might support the use of medicinal plants as adjuvant or alternative therapy for the treatment of H. pylori.
Electric Discharge Machining of Titanium Alloy under Cu Mixed Dielectric Medium
Authors: Prakash T. , Pradeep V.  P. , Suresh T. , Raja S.
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

In the current research work, an attempt has been made to machine
Ti6Al4V using Powder Mixed Electric Discharge Machining (PMEDM) technique.

Methods:

The experiments were designed utilizing central composite response surface
methodology by varying current, pulse on time, gap distance, and powder concentration
at five different levels, whereas Material Removal Rate (MRR), Tool Wear Rate
(TWR), and Surface Roughness (Ra) were documented as responses. The MRR reduced
with an increase in powder concentration until the concentration reached 7.5 g/l because
incorporated particles observed the major proportion of heat, and at 10 g/l, MRR increased
due to the bridging effect.

Results:

The TWR and Ra reduced with an escalation in powder concentration due to
expansion in the spark gap, facilitating the flushing of machined debris. The surface topography
revealed cracks, pits, globules, and craters. Moreover, with the addition of
particles, surface quality improved owing to the elimination of re-melted layers.

Conclusion:

The parameters were optimized using the Grey Relational Analysis
(GRA), and the combination of 2.5 g/l powder concentration, 20A current, 50 μs ton,
and 4 mm gap distance offers the best machining performance.
Atrial Fibrillation Development Risk Associated with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Hazzy Alfata Fandy , Rizal Ardian , Saifur Rohman Mohammad , Fuji Rahimah Anna
Published: August 2023

Even in the absence of antecedent myocardial infarction or congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent arrhythmia seen in daily practice. There are several important predisposing factors for the initiation of AF, including growing older, being a man, being female, having high blood pressure, and having cardiac and noncardiac illnesses. Metabolic syndrome (MS) contributes to the progression of AF through its impact on the atrial substrate. MS involves metabolic risk factors that increase the likelihood of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance plays a significant role in MS pathophysiology, leading to glucose and lipid metabolism dysregulation, increased inflammation, and neurohormonal activation. These processes contribute to the development of hypertension, a major risk factor for AF. Atrial remodeling, including electrical and structural changes, is a common substrate for AF, and MS components further contribute to this remodeling. Hypertension, a key feature of MS, is associated with structural, contractile, and electrical remodeling in the atria, increasing the risk of AF. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, implicated in hypertension regulation, also influences the pathophysiology of AF through fibrosis, ion channel alterations, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Understanding the intricate interplay between MS and AF can provide insights into therapeutic strategies for managing these conditions and reducing cardiovascular risks.
Troubleshooting for Kinked Coronary Catheter: How to Manage? ; A Case Series
Authors: Noverike Nikhen , Satrijo Budi , Widito Sasmojo , Kurnianingsih Novi , Abusari Muchamad
Published: August 2023

Background: Catheter entrapment and knotting are two problems that might arise during coronary angiography, regardless of the method used. It is not uncommon for the catheter shaft to become kinked during diagnostic or interventional procedures. Still, if the manipulation fails, an invasive retrieval method is usually necessary for cases with extensive catheter kinking. Case Illustration: We present two cases illustrating how different angiography approaches could lead to severe catheter kinking. Because of the significant tortuosity of the vasculature, even a gentle opposite rotation maneuver and the antegrade advancement of multiple guidewires failed to untwist the guide catheter. Once a twisted catheter has been identified via fluoroscopy, the twist can be eased by gently twisting the catheter in the opposite direction. It is not always easy. It could lead to using other interventional techniques such as snare, balloon, or surgical procedures. In our cases, we used a snare to snag the catheter's tip and untied the loop's knot. This prevented the need for unscheduled surgical intervention. We evaluated from angiography. There were no further complications. The patients were released from the hospital the following day. Conclusion: Although a kinked catheter could become entrapped, various approaches can be taken to deal with this difficulty and prevent the need for surgical intervention.
Real-Time Virtual Support as an Emergency Department Strategy for Rural, Remote, and Indigenous Communities in British Columbia: Descriptive Case Study
Authors: Novak Lauscher Helen , Blacklaws Brydon , Pritchard Erika , Wang Elsie Jiaxi , Stewart Kurtis , Beselt Jeff , Ho Kendall , Pawlovich John
Published: August 2023

Background

British Columbia has over 200 rural, remote, and Indigenous communities that have limited health care resources due to physician isolation, sparsity in clinical resources, the lack of collegial support, and provider burnout. Real-time virtual support (RTVS) peer-to-peer pathways provide support to patients and providers. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating existing health care disparities and equitable access to timely care, RTVS presents a portable and additional opportunity to be deployed in a hospital or patient home setting in rural communities. We highlight the story of the Rural Urgent Doctor in-aid (RUDi) pathway within RTVS that successfully supported the Dawson Creek District Hospital (DCDH) emergency department (ED) in 2021.

Objective

This study aims to describe the rapid implementation process and identify facilitators and barriers to successful implementation.

Methods

This case study is grounded in the Quadruple Aim and Social Accountability frameworks for health systems learning. The entire study period was approximately 6 months. After 1 week of implementation, we interviewed RUDi physicians, DCDH staff, health authority leadership, and RTVS staff to gather their experiences. Content analysis was used to identify themes that emerged from the interviews.

Results

RUDi physicians covered 39 overnight shifts and were the most responsible providers (MRPs) for 245 patients who presented to the DCDH ED. A total of 17 interviews with key informants revealed important themes related to leadership and relationships as facilitators of the coverage’s success, the experience of remote physician support, providing a “safety net,” finding new ways of interprofessional collaboration, and the need for extensive IT support throughout. Quality improvement findings identified barriers and demonstrated tangible recommendations for how this model of support can be improved in future cases.

Conclusions

By acting as the MRP during overnight ED shifts, RUDi prevented the closure of the DCDH ED and the diversion of patients to another rural hospital. Rapid codevelopment and implementation of digital health solutions can be leveraged with existing partnerships and mutual trust between RTVS and rural EDs to ease the pressures of a physician shortage, particularly during COVID-19. By establishing new and modified clinical workflows, RTVS provides a safety net for rural patients and providers challenged by burnout. This case study provides learnings to be implemented to serve future rural, remote, and Indigenous communities in crisis.
Altmetric Analysis of Dermatology Manuscript Dissemination During the COVID-19 Era: Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhu Harrison , Narayana Vishnu , Zhou Kelvin , Patel Anisha B
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Alternative bibliometrics or altmetrics, is a measure of an academic article’s impact on social media outlets, which is quantified by the Altmetric Attention score (AAS). Given a lack of data for altmetric trends during the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted a comprehensive, multivariable analysis of top dermatology manuscripts published during this time period.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to assess (1) the relationship between traditional bibiliometrics and Altmetrics and (2) factors associated with high AAS.

METHODS

All abstracted articles published in the top-5 (ranked by SCImago Journal Rankings) peer-reviewed dermatology journals published in 2021 were included in our study. We collected AAS as the dependent variable and categorical predictor variables included journal title, whether a conflict of interest existed, open access status, whether the article was related to COVID-19 or skin-of-color research, and the type of research (eg, clinical, basic science, review, etc). Numerical predictor variables consisted of the impact factor of journal, total citations, and number of authors. Multivariable linear or logistic regression models were used.

RESULTS

The relationship between AAS and citation number was significant by multivariable analysis during the COVID-19 pandemic (P<.001). Numerous factors, including studies related to COVID-19, whether the article was open access, title of the journal, and journal impact factor were also independently related to higher AAS (P<.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results validate the use of altmetrics as a complement to traditional bibliometrics, especially in times of widespread scientific interest. Despite existing in a complex realm of bibliometrics, there are also discernable patterns associated with higher AAS. This is especially relevant in the era of growing technologic importance and utility to assess the impact of scientific works within the general public.
Understanding the Impact of Digital Technology on the Well-being of Older Immigrants and Refugees: A Scoping Review Protocol (Preprint)
Authors: Ekoh Prince Chiagozie , Okolie Tochukwu Jonathan , Nnadi Fidel Bethel , Oyinlola Oluwagbemiga , Walsh Christine A.
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Although, scholarly reports show that some older adults utilise digital technology to enhance their well-being, a significant number of older adults are digitally alienated. This is complicated for older immigrants and refugees, whose situations present a peculiar challenge, requiring digital technology for improved quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

Hence, this scoping review seeks to understand the impact of digital technology on the well-being of older immigrants and refugees.

METHODS

Arksey & O’Malley’s five-stage framework will guide the review. The following databases: Social Work Abstract, Social Service Abstracts, Abstracts of Social Gerontology, International Bibliography of the Social Sciences (IBSS), etc., will be searched. Citations from the databases will be exported to Zotero to eliminate duplicate articles. These citations will be subjected to two screening levels. For the first screening, citations will be exported from Zotero to Rayyan QCRI© for title and abstract review. After that, all the authors will conduct full-text reviews of all articles included. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) will be utilised in describing and documenting the inclusion and exclusion process.

RESULTS

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CONCLUSIONS

This scoping review will engender an improved understanding of the implications of digital technology on the well-being of older immigrants.
Inequities in Technology Access and Digital Health Literacy Among Patients With Dermatologic Conditions: Cross-Sectional Analysis of the National Health Interview Survey (Preprint)
Authors: Linggonegoro Danny , Williams Kathryn , Hlobik Madeline , Huang Jennifer
Published: August 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Certain sociodemographic factors are associated with low technology access and digital healthy literacy.
Effect of Addition of NaCl Salt on Extraction of Essential Oil from Lemongrass Leaves by Microwave Hydro-Distillation Method
Authors: Suryanti Fenni , Qadariyah Lailatul , Mahfud Mahfud
Published: August 2023

Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants and obtained by distillation. Indonesia has many kinds of plant commodities for essential oil production. Among the essential oils that have not been developed in Indonesia is citronella oil which can be extracted from the lemongrass plant this research, we develop Microwave Hydro-Distillation (MHD) method has several advantages over conventional distillation methods: shorter time, higher oil quality and yield. This research proposes to extract citronella oil from lemongrass leaves using the MHD method using aquadest and NaCl solution addition. Operating variables are extraction time (20–180 min), material size (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 cm), feed-to-solvent ratio (0.1; 0.15; and 0.2 g/mL), and microwave power (300, 450, and 600 watts). The essential oil results are analyzed by GC-MS analysis, specific gravity, refractive index, and solubility. The results showed that it increased with extraction time followed by almost constant conditions, tended to decrease with increasing feed-to-solvent ratio, and increased yield with increasing microwave power. The results from the GC-MS analysis, the active substance content of geraniol was 46.61% and citronellal 5.62%. Additional salt in this method is a green and clean essential oil extraction.
Synthesis of Calix[4]resorcinarene Derivatives as Antimalarial Agents through Heme Polymerization Inhibition Assay
Authors: Putri Rizky Riyami , Pranowo Harno Dwi , Kurniawan Yehezkiel Steven , Fatimi Hana Anisa , Jumina Jumina
Published: August 2023

Malaria is an endemic disease in tropical countries, including Indonesia, with a high annual mortality rate. Because of that, serious attention shall be given to find new antimalarial agents that are highly active for medical treatment. In this work, we designed and synthesized three calix[4]resorcinarene derivatives and evaluated them as antimalarial agents through in vitro heme polymerization inhibitory assay. The calix[4]resorcinarenes were prepared from resorcinol and corresponding aldehyde derivatives in ethanol media through a cyclo-condensation reaction. The calix[4]resorcinarene products were obtained in 31.1–85.1% yield. The synthesized compounds were subjected to structure elucidation using spectroscopy techniques. The antimalarial activity of calix[4]resorcinarene with aromatic substituent (IC50 = 0.198 mg/mL) was higher than the aliphatic ones (IC50 = 0.282–0.814 mg/mL). It was found that all calix[4]resorcinarenes in this work exhibited stronger antimalarial activity than chloroquine diphosphate as the positive control (IC50 = 1.157 mg/mL). The calix[4]resorcinarenes could interact with hydrogen bonding, thus inhibiting the heme polymerization process. These findings demonstrate that calix[4]resorcinarene derivatives are potential antimalarial agents to be developed for effective medical treatment in the near future.
Utilization of Lignin and Lignosulfonate from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches as Filler in PVDF Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Mu'izzah Nala Ridhwanul , Hapsari Pinka Zuhdiana , Aulia Nabila Putri , Wulansari Dian Wahyu Tri , Azhari Fauziyah , Pramono Edi
Published: August 2023

A study on the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane using lignin and lignosulfonate oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fillers have been carried out. This study aims to determine the additional effect of lignin and lignosulfonate on PVDF membrane. Lignin sulfonation has a good result proven by Fourier transform infrared spectra with a peak at 1192 cm−1 which indicates sulfonate group. The sulfonation degree was increased by 8.9% for lignosulfonate. The membrane was prepared by the phase inversion method. Data present that all the membranes have an asymmetric structure with finger-like and sponge-like pores. Good thermal stability indicated by thermal gravimetric analysis showed degradation at 432 °C. The mechanical properties of the membrane decrease with the addition of filler. From the X-ray diffraction, peaks appeared at 18.39°, 21.35°, and 23.75° for all the membranes indicating of α and β phases. Lignin and lignosulfonate increased membrane hydrophilicity and water uptake. The presence of the sulfonate group increases the ionic exchange capacity and ionic conductivity up to 2.78 mmol/g and 9.95 × 10−5 S/cm, respectively, for 5% lignosulfonate addition. Thus, PVDF/lignosulfonate has the potential as a polymer electrolyte membrane.
Synthesis and Antidiabetic Evaluation of N’-Benzylidenebenzohydrazide Derivatives by In Silico Studies
Authors: Alam Yusuf Syaril , Pudjiastuti Pratiwi , Maulana Saipul , Afifah Nur Rahmayanti , Martak Fahimah , Fadlan Arif , Wahyuni Tutik Sri , Arief Syukri
Published: August 2023

Two new of N’-benzylidenebenzohydrazide (NBB) derivatives were successfully synthesized and yielded 50–58%. FTIR, ESI-MS, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR were used to investigate the characteristic of NBB derivates. The structure and relationship of NBB derivatives into α-glucosidase and α-amylase as good targets for diabetes treatment were evaluated using in silico screening. Molecular Mechanics-Poisson Boltzmann/Generalized Born Surface Area (MM-PB/GBSA) was used to calculate the free binding energy (ΔGbind (MM-GBSA)) of NBB to α-glucosidase and α-amylase receptors showed that the results of −0.45 and −20.79 kcal/mol respectively. In the ortho position, NBB derivatives exhibited electron donating groups (EDG like -OCH3, -OH and -Cl with binding free energies of −21.94, −6.71 and 21.94, respectively, and acarbose, a native ligand energy of 32.62 kcal/mol. In addition, the binding free energy of N-2-(-OCH3, -OH and -Cl)-NBB to the α-amylase receptor showed the number of −39.33, −43.96, −42.81, respectively and −46.51 kcal/mol in comparing with a native ligand. As a result, it was found that all the NBB derivatives were able to interact with several amino acids in the α-glucosidase cavity as well as the native ones, including Ala281, Asp282, and Asp616.  NBB and native ligand showed similar interaction between α-amylase with Gly110 amino acid residue.
New Design Valve in Flow Injection System for the Determination of Pb(II) in Biological and Environmental Samples
Authors: Jassim Thekrayat Joodi , Taresh Raisan Kadhim
Published: August 2023

A strategy to design an injection valve for a streamlined flow injection technique is described as speed and low-cost materials available in the environment for the determination of Pb(II) ion using the organic reagent 4-((4-methoxyphenyl)diazenyl)benzene-1,3-diol at a wavelength of 498 nm. The scope of the study is to find the optimal conditions, including the flow rate of the carrier, the dispersion coefficient, the length of the reaction coil, and the calibration drawing. The results showed that the optimum length of the reaction coil is 20 cm, and the optimum flow rate is 9.1 mL/min, which is equivalent to the pumping rate of 70 F/min. The range of linearity of the study was revealed by a calibration curve of 0.5–27 mg/L, slope = 1.507, correlation coefficient = 0.9995, the limit of quantitative (LOQ) = 0.088 mg/L, and limit of detection (LOD) = 0.026 mg/L. The system under study has a characteristic efficiency. The dispersion coefficient was calculated for concentrations of 10–15 mg/L Pb(II) ion. Furthermore, the accuracy of the flow injection technique in the estimation process was studied and compared with the Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS) technique.
Examining a Tuanku's Political Power in West Sumatra
Authors: Azwar Welhendri , Permatasari Yuli , Ulil Amri Mufti
Published: August 2023

This study examines the authority of a tuanku, a leader of the tarekat (mystical teaching) community in West Sumatra, Indonesia—a charismatic figure with a significant role in the region's socio‐ political landscape. He issues political statements or ‘political fatwa’ regarding a certain issue to help determine choices. As such, political leaders seek to win his favor for an advantage in political contests. Data were collected from in-depth interviews with teachers and congregational members of the tarekat community to examine a tuanku's charismatic authority in the socio-political dynamics. The study reveals that a tuanku’s influence is strong, his understanding of politics is closely related to the religious understanding of the tarekat school, and his charisma impacts the political choices of the tarekat community. This study contributes to the literature by providing evidence of a religious figure's charismatic authority in West Sumatra's socio‐political dynamics.
Research on the Integration of Traditional Chinese Culture into Kindergarten Curriculum in Ethnic Regions
Authors: Jiang Chen
Published: August 2023

Based on the background of early childhood education curriculum, kindergartens in various regions have begun to pay attention to the development of kindergarten curriculum. Most of teachers search for the characteristics of kindergarten curriculum that is suitable for young children’s age groups. The excellent Chinese traditional culture, as an important element with Chinese cultural symbols, is gradually being used by kindergarten teachers. When carrying out activities, kindergartens in ethnic regions integrate traditional Chinese culture into the development of kindergarten curriculum. This study starts with the background of integrating traditional Chinese culture into the development of kindergarten curriculum. Through interviews with preschool teachers, it identifies the current problems and reasons, and proposes some suggestions for better integrating traditional Chinese culture into the kindergarten curriculum.
SPIROMETRY EVALUATION OF PULMONARY FUNCTIONS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Udgata Girija Shankar , MEHER BHANJAN , S Hota , Udgata Ananya , Udgata Anwesha , Patel Ankan , Kranthi Krishna KOMARI Venkat
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) during the chronic stage elicits significant micro and macrovascular complication and imposes mortality and morbidity among the individuals. However, the effect of T2DM on the lung as a target end organ damage was not widely studied. Hence, the present study was done for the spirometry analysis of pulmonary functions in T2DM patients. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 50 T2DM patients and they were subjected to spirometry evaluation. The restrictive pattern of lung functions was analyzed by evaluating the following parameters forced vital capacity (FVC) in liters, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC were evaluated. The association between lung function parameters and duration of diabetes, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were also analyzed. Results: In this study among the diabetic patients, the mean FVC was 2.45±0.36 L, the mean FEVI was 1.82±0.12 (L/s) and the mean FEV1/FVC was 87.42±7.54, respectively. Regarding lung complication, out of 50 diabetic patients, 25 (50%) had normal lung functions, 16 (32%) had mild restriction and 9 (18%) had moderate restriction. The FVC, FEVI, and FEV1/FVC were significantly reduced in diabetic patients with moderate lung restriction as compared to normal and mild restriction patterns. Diabetes duration displayed no significant association with a decline in pulmonary function and FEV1/FVC showed weak significant negative correlation (r=−0.412; p=0.02) with HbA1c levels. Conclusion: The study shows that in diabetics patients there was a marked decline in pulmonary function and it might be due to uncontrolled diabetes-related complications.
PROFILE OF DROWNING DEATHS AMONG MEDICOLEGAL AUTOPSIES CONDUCTED AT KADAPA, ANDHRA PRADESH: A 2-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: B Venkatesulu , S Sudhakar , M Abdul Khalid , G DINESH , NAIK M SRINIVASA
Published: August 2023

Background: Drowning kills at least 372,000 people every year and is the 3rd leading cause of unintentional deaths. In addition to the human tragedy, drowning represents a huge economic problem with direct and indirect costs, including many Disability-Adjusted Life Years lost. In India, very little is known about the epidemiology of drowning.
Objectives: The objective of the study was to study the incidence, manner, and epidemiology of deaths due to drowning in and around Kadapa region.
Methods: The present study was conducted from January 2021 to December 2022 in Government Medical College, Kadapa on 154 cases to study the various epidemiological parameters of drowning.
Results: In the study period, 1246 cases of postmortem examination were done, of which 154 cases were of drowning related deaths. A maximum number of cases were seen in the age group of 21–30 years with males 70.77% dominating the study population. 50.64% of deaths were accidental in nature and occurred during the rainy season. The most common place of occurrence of drowning was river 57.14% followed by wells 14.28%. Soddening of hands and feet was the most common external feature of drowning followed by the presence of froth at mouth and nostril.
Conclusion: Drowning is a most ignored public hazard worldwide with serious implications for the society. Public awareness regarding safety measures and drowning prevention strategies suitable to the needs of geographical region should be adapted.