bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective Effect of Curcuma domestica and Curcuma xanthorrhiza Extracts toward Kidney, Liver, and Pancreatic Organ Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus Mice
Authors:   Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275 Indonesia, Nindita Yora , Utomo Astika Widy ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275 Indonesia, Maharani Nani ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275 Indonesia, Mahati Endang ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275 Indonesia, Kristiandi Ilham Fernando ,   Medical Doctor Profession Education, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang 50275 Indonesia, Kesumayadi Irfan ,   Medical Doctor Profession Education, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang 50275 Indonesia, Kurniawati Eny Dyah ,   Department of Anatomical Pathology, Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Kartini, Jepara, 59421 Indonesia, Sobirin Mochamad Ali ,   Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275 Indonesia, Wijayahadi Noor ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275 Indonesia
Published: April 2023

The complications of Diabetes mellitus (DM) in Indonesia still need attention. Curcuma are often used as complementary medicine for antidiabetic. There is no study has been found comparing the effect of Curcuma domestica extracts (CDE) and Curcuma xanthorrhiza extracts (CXE) on the progression of the kidney, liver, and pancreas dysfunction in the mice with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DM. This study was an experimental study to compare the effect of CDE and CXE on the progression of multi-organ dysfunction such as kidney, liver, and pancreas. The extract was produced by a maceration process with composition 100 gr simplicial and 300 ml ethanol 70%. The mice were induced with 180 mg/kgBW STZ intraperitoneally. The CDE and CXE were given 100 mg/kgBW orally for 21 days. A blood glucose was measured by a glucose meter on days 0, 1, and 21. The histopathological examination of the kidney, liver and pancreas were done on 21 days after the treatment. Data were analyzed using One Way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests (P <0.05). The results revealed that blood glucose levels showed no significant reduction of CDE and CXE after 21 days of the treatment. Histopathological examination showed a significant protection in kidney inflammation, kidney fibrosis, and pancreatic inflammation (P =0.001, P =0.013, P =0.027 respectively) in CDE and CXE groups. No significant differences were examined in liver inflammation, liver fibrosis, and pancreatic inflammation (P =0.184, P =0.498, P =0.193 respectively). However, there was a significant improvement in liver inflammation by CXE treatment (P =0.041). CXE has a greater potential for hepatoprotective effect compared to CDE. Keywords: Curcuma extract, Organ dysfunction, Inflammation, Diabetes mellitus, Mice
Peptide Spectra Analysis of DNA Starvation/Stationary Phase Protection-Like Protein Found in Hospital-Acquired ESBL Producing Escherichia coli by MALDI-TOF Technique
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Daoaroonkiet Purilarp , Kwangsukstith Siriaran ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Srichai Salin ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Jaidee Swasamon ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Emthanom Metha ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Sujitpiriyakit Pijitra ,   Diagnostic Laboratory Unit, Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Sastraruji Thanapat ,   Dental Research Center, Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand, Sookkhee Siriwoot ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
Published: April 2023

The present study aimed to investigate the hospital-acquired Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase production (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli, to identify the significant ESBL peptide spectra after exposure to ceftazidime and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, and to identify the resistant peptide spectra after exposure to ciprofloxacin. ESBL production and the minimal inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin were investigated using the Epsilometer strip test. Their colonies were collected to analyze the peptide spectra by VITEK® Mass Spectrometry. The significant difference in spectrum intensity for suspected ESBL peptide spectra, and DNA starvation/stationary phase protection (Dps) -like peptide spectra were also determined. Among 228 isolates, the high ESBL-producing E. coli which exhibited high ciprofloxacin resistance was demonstrated as 22.63%. The significant reduction of spectrum intensity after exposure to ceftazidime and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid was only detected at spectrum 9714 Da in the high ESBL-producing group (P ≤0.001). Among four selected high ESBL producers, only one significant spectrum located at 9063 Da was detected in the high ciprofloxacin-resistant group (P ≤0.001) after being exposed to ceftazidime and ciprofloxacin. The highest percentage increase of spectrum 9063 Da was 69.42%. Multidrug resistance was demonstrated in the tested E. coli isolates, especially β-lactam resistance which may be caused by their ESBL production. It may be said that the peptide spectrum located at 9714, and 9063 Da were suspected as the ESBL indicative peptide spectrum in the high ESBL producers, and as the Dps indicative peptide spectrum in the high ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates. Keywords: Peptide spectra analysis, DNA starvation/stationary phase protection like protein, Hospital-acquired infection, Extended spectrum β-lactamase, Escherichia coli, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time Of Flight
Hepatic Cancer: Present Scenario, Treatment Options and Nursing Management
Authors: Hassan Yasmeena , Bhat Arif Akbar , Uddin Jahangir Mohi , Majeed Ishfaq , Rather Mohd Younis , Waza Ajaz Ahmad
Published: April 2023

With an expected incidence of more than 1 million cases by 2025, liver cancer remains a problem for world health. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer, accounting for nearly 90% of cases. Hepatitis B and C virus infection, alcohol abuse, and smoking are the main risk factors for developing HCC. Furthermore, the molecular pathogenesis of HCC linked with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis is distinct. A quarter of all HCCs have potentially treatable mutations that have not yet been implemented in clinical practice. The current hurdle in diagnosis is the requirement for molecular data that necessitates tissue or liquid biopsies.
Pharmacophoric Evaluation of Compounds Isolated from GC-MS Analytical Method of Aqueous Extract of Azadirachta indica Leaves
Authors: Nagesh Simhadri V. S. D. N. A. , I Kannan , K. K Bairagi
Published: April 2023

The majority of current pharmaceuticals are derived from traditional plants; one of these, Azadirachta indica, also known as neem, has a variety of therapeutic applications ranging from simple infections to cancer. All of these pharmacological effects are due to the secondary metabolites present in the various plant parts. Diverse researchers made numerous attempts to identify the active ingredients using techniques such as Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and High performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC), among others. The GC-MS technique is used to isolate various secondary metabolites from the leaves of an aqueous extract of A.indica. The isolated compounds were analysed for their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics properties using software such as SWISSADME, OPENBABEL, Swiss target prediction, etc. The aqueous extract of A.indica yielded 13 compounds, but only 5 compounds showed the highest number of hits; those with the highest concentration were chosen to obtain the pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and toxicological profiles. All five compounds are non-toxic and can be administered orally, and molecules with specific properties are capable of modulating a variety of proteins, including some enzymes. Based on this information, we can assume that these molecules can be used as "hit" or "lead" molecules in preclinical studies.
Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Healthy, Overweight, and Obese Adults: A Non-Blinded, Randomized Trial
Authors: Al-Notazy Mohammed Rashid Zghair , Al-Saedi Haider Falih Shamikh , Ramadhan Mukhallad Abdul Kareem , Al-Dalfi Ahmed Ghazi Hassan
Published: April 2023

A growing body of literature recognizes the role of vitamin D deficiency in various health-related problems such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and dyslipidemia. Hence, we design a small non-blinded randomized clinical study to explore some of these effects. The primary outcome was to investigate whether supplementation with vitamin D could reduce body mass index (BMI), while the secondary outcome was to see its effects on blood pressure (BP), serum total cholesterol (TC), and HDL-cholesterol over 12 weeks period in overweight otherwise healthy individuals. Twenty-two subjects were randomized into two groups, group A was given vitamin D supplementation of 200 IU/day and group B was assigned to 2000 IU/day. A baseline assessment of body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), serum total cholesterol (TC), and serum HDL-cholesterol was performed at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Repeated measure ANOVA was used to determine the effect of supplements within subjects and between the groups of our study. The study was unable to demonstrate any statistically significant effects of these supplemental doses of vitamin D on both primary and secondary outcomes over the study period. The scope of this study was limited by a small sample size and a large randomized double-blinded clinical study could provide more definitive evidence.
Glomerular Filtration Rate: Comparison of Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Equations with the Effect of Age in a Tertiary Hospital in Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: A-Razak Syamihah Mardhiah , Mohamad Fathimah , Arifin Rosemawati , Azizi Arjoanna Farra , Wee Chen Xin , Nasir Nadzimah Mohd
Published: April 2023

Objective: The Malaysian Ministry of Health Clinical Practice Guideline 2018 recommends the clinical use of the CKD-EPI equation instead of the MDRD equations. This study aims to examine mean eGFR and prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) using both equations based on different age groups and to ascertain inter-rater agreement between both equations, particularly in the elderly in a tertiary hospital in Terengganu, Malaysia. Method: Serum creatinine results were extracted from the lab information system (LIS) for a 1-year duration in a patient more than and equal to 18 years old (≥18 years old). The first creatinine results from 69,329 people were used to estimate GFR using both equations. The mean eGFR, prevalence of the CKD and agreement between those two equations were compared. Result: In comparison with the MDRD equation, CKD-EPI revealed lower mean eGFR (82.63 vs 85.42 mL/min/1.73m², p<0.001) and reduce in the prevalence of the chronic kidney disease (CKD) (25.7% vs 28.4%). When subdivided by age, the prevalence of CKD reduced in the age group 18-79 years but increased in the elderly age >80 years. The numerical agreement of eGFR was excellent (ICC = 0.883), and the categorical agreement of CKD was almost perfect in all age groups. (ƙ= 0.932). Conclusion: CKD-EPI equation reduces the prevalence of CKD in young people and increases prevalence in the elderly (>80 years old). However, the CKD-EPI equation is an appropriate alternative to the MDRD equation for all age groups, including the elderly. Further validation studies involving a large multiethnic and adequate elderly population in Malaysia are much needed.
Antioxidant and Vasorelaxant Properties of Phaseolus vulgaris Linn (Fabaceae) Immature Pods Extract on the Thoracic Aorta of NMRI Mice
Authors: Ouedraogo Windingoudi Rimwagna Christian , Belemnaba Lazare , Nitiema Mathieu , Kabore Boukaré , Ouedraogo Noufou , Koala Moumouni , Semde Rasmané , Ouedraogo Sylvin
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Oxidative stress, through the increased bioavailability of reactive oxygen species (ROS), is a major cause of hypertension. The resulting endothelial remodeling promotes the production of vasoconstrictor substances leading to an increase in blood pressure. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and vasorelaxant properties of the decoction (PAD), ethyl acetate (EAP), and residual aqueous (ARP) fractions of immature Phaseolus vulgaris pods on NMRI mice thoracic aorta rings. Methods: Phytochemical screening was performed by high-performance thin-layer chromatography. Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum trichloride colorimetric methods were used to quantify total polyphenol compounds (TPC) and total flavonoids (TFC), respectively. Antioxidant activities of the extracts were determined by 2,29-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic (ABTS●), 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH●), and ferric ion (FRAP) radical reduction methods. The DMT 620M ADInstruments myograph technique was used to evaluate the ex-vivo vasodilatory effects of Phaseolus vulgaris extracts on aortic rings. Results: Chromatographic fingerprints showed the presence of flavonoids, coumarins, tannins, steroids, triterpenes, and saponins in the extracts studied. The TPC (61.07±0.04 mgGAE/g) and TFC (6.16±0.03 mgQE/g) of EAP were statistically significant compared to that of PAD and ARP (p<0.001). The antioxidant power of Trolox was statistically significant compared to all studied extracts (p<0.05). It should be noted that among these extracts, EAP showed the better antiradical capacities for ABTS (IC50=71.87±0.30 µg/mL) and DPPH (IC50=9.93±0.00 µg/mL). However, for FRAP activity, it was the PAD extract (T=170.68±0.11 µgAAE/g) that obtained the best score. In terms of vasorelaxant activity, all extracts induced concentration-dependent relaxation of aortic rings precontracted with U46619. Pharmacodynamic parameters were significantly in favor of EAP [EAP(E+)=(Emax=100.06±0.00%; pD2=1.24±0.01) and EAP(E-)=(Emax=101.01±0.00%; pD2=0.84±0.02)] followed by PAD and then ARP. Conclusion: Phaseolus vulgaris immature pod extracts possess concentration-dependent vasorelaxant effects on isolated mouse aorta. These preliminaries results were scientific evidence to support the use of this plant in traditional and complementary medicine for the treatment of hypertension.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibilities of Bacteria Isolated from Circumcised and Non-Circumcised Women with Urinary Tract Infections in Different Gynecological Clinics in Khartoum Locality, Sudan
Authors: Ali Elatta Manal Abdalla , Abdalla Wafaa Mohammed , Ahmed Hind Haidar , Ahmed Tagwa Salah , M. Saeed Samar
Published: April 2023

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the diseases that are widely spreading among women. A number of factors contribute to UTIs, including circumcision, which narrows the opening of the urinary system. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from April 2019 to February 2021 to detect the frequency of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria isolated from circumcised women attending two Clinics, for Gyncology in Khartoum locality. Conventional methods were used for isolation, identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. A total of 80 midstream urine samples (n = 80) were collected from all female eligible volunteers, of which 40 had been circumcised and 40 had not. Results: The study investigated 80 females aged 7-70 years, with a mean of 29.3 + 13.1 SD. There were 16/40 (40%) circumcised women who were married and 23/40 (60%) single, whereas for non-circumcised women there were 7/40 (17.5%) married and 33/40 (82.5%) single. Among the circumcised patients, 34/40 (85%) had growths compared to 6/40 (15%) of the non-circumcised participants, and UTIs were significantly associated with circumcision (P≤0.001). Circumcised females had a 32 times higher odd ratio (O.R) of UTIs than non-circumcised females. Escherichia coli was the most predominant isolate among circumcised and non-circumcised women (15(37.5%)). The isolated bacteria in circumcised women were moderately sensitive to Augmentin 22/34 (67.7%) and Gentamycin 20/34 (58.8%) compared to other antimicrobial agents; Ciprofloxacin 16/34(47.1%), Cefuroxime 12/34(35.3) and Amoxycillin 10/34 (29.4%) while all Gram negative rods were highly resistant to Nalidixic acid (100.0%). In contrast to non-circumised women; all isolated bacteria were highly sensitive to Gentamicin 6/6 (100.0%) and Cefuroxime 5/6(83.3%), and moderate sensitive to Augmentin 4/6 (66.7%) and Ciprofloxacin 4/6(66.7%). Also all isolated were highly resistant to Nalidixic acid (100.0%) and Amoxycillin 1/6 (16.7%). Conclusion: UTIs and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria were more prevalent among circumcised women than non-circumcised women. E.coli was the most prevalent bacteria among circumcised and non- circumcised women.
Impact of Isoniazid and Rifampicin on Chemokines with Clinical Parameters in Tuberculosis Patients
Authors: Odeh Ali , Altaei Tagreed
Published: April 2023

One of the most common and deadly diseases is tuberculosis, which has been known to be originated in ancient times. The assessment of the effectiveness of treatment regimens involves the monitoring of adverse events and the estimation of biomarkers. Serum biomarkers: Chemokine, Hematology, Liver function tests, and Kidney function tests were studied in forty tuberculosis patients of pulmonary and extra-pulmonary with its correlation. The monitoring and follow-up were assessed for the presence of any adverse effects, and compliance to treatment by Isoniazid 300 mg/kg, and Rifampicin 600 mg/kg during the study period. A significant difference was recorded between pulmonary and extra-pulmonary patients of the serum chemokine CXCL8 after one and two months of the treatment. The serum CXCL8 was increased in pulmonary and decreased in extra-pulmonary TB patients. The conclusion of this study described that chemokines play a role in mediating an effective immune-modulatory role during the treatment of TB infection and the therapeutic drug monitoring for compliance with TB treatment. A significant difference was noticed in the levels of liver enzymes (AST and ALT) between pulmonary and extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. Kidney function parameters showed a difference in creatinine levels between the two studied groups.
Future registry research
Authors: Farrow Luke , Evans Jonathan
Published: April 2023

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(4):256–258.
The cost effectiveness of potential risk factors for developmental dysplasia of the hip within a national screening programme
Authors: Poacher Arwel T. , Froud Joseph L. J. , Caterson Jessica , Crook Daniel L. , Ramage Gregor , Marsh Luke , Poacher Gethin , Carpenter Eleanor C.
Published: April 2023

Aims

Early detection of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is associated with improved outcomes of conservative treatment. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate a novel screening programme that included both the primary risk factors of breech presentation and family history, and the secondary risk factors of oligohydramnios and foot deformities.

Methods

A five-year prospective registry study investigating every live birth in the study’s catchment area (n = 27,731), all of whom underwent screening for risk factors and examination at the newborn and six- to eight-week neonatal examination and review. DDH was diagnosed using ultrasonography and the Graf classification system, defined as grade IIb or above or rapidly regressing IIa disease (≥4o at four weeks follow-up). Multivariate odds ratios were calculated to establish significant association, and risk differences were calculated to provide quantifiable risk increase with DDH, positive predictive value was used as a measure of predictive efficacy. The cost-effectiveness of using these risk factors to predict DDH was evaluated using NHS tariffs (January 2021).

Results

The prevalence of DDH that required treatment within our population was 5/1,000 live births. The rate of missed presentation of DDH was 0.43/1000 live births. Breech position, family history, oligohydramnios, and foot deformities demonstrated significant association with DDH (p < 0.0001). The presence of breech presentation increased the risk of DDH by 1.69% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93% to 2.45%), family history by 3.57% (95% CI 2.06% to 5.09%), foot deformities by 8.95% (95% CI 4.81% to 13.1%), and oligohydramnios nby 11.6% (95 % CI 3.0% to 19.0%). Primary risk factors family history and breech presentation demonstrated an estimated cost-per-case detection of £6,276 and £11,409, respectively. Oligohydramnios and foot deformities demonstrated a cost-per-case detected less than the cost of primary risk factors of £2,260 and £2,670, respectively.

Conclusion

The inclusion of secondary risk factors within a national screening programme was clinically successful as they were more cost and resource-efficient predictors of DDH than primary risk factors, suggesting they should be considered in the national guidance.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(4):234–240.
Measurement of the integer and fractional topological charge of optical vortex beams by using crossed blades
Authors: Foroughi Dehnoei Sanaz , Ghavami Sabouri Saeed
Published: April 2023

Measurement of the topological charge (TC) of vortex beams, including
integer and fractional orbital angular momentum, is of great
importance in diverse fields. Here we first investigate the
diffraction patterns of a vortex beam from crossed blades with
different opening angles and positionings on the beam by a simulation
and experiment. Then the positions and opening angles of the crossed
blades that are sensitive to the variation of TC are selected and
characterized. We show that for a specific position of the crossed
blades on the vortex beam, the integer TC can be measured directly by
counting the bright spots in the diffraction pattern. Moreover, we
show experimentally that for other positions of the crossed blades, by
calculating the first-order moment of the intensity of the diffraction
pattern, the integer TC between −10 and 10 can be obtained. In addition,
this method is used to measure the fractional TC and, as an example,
the TC measurement is demonstrated for a range between 1 and 2 with
0.1 steps. The result of the simulation and experiment shows good
agreement.
Temporal-spatial dynamics of electronic plasma in a femtosecond laser-induced sapphire microstructure
Authors: Niu Xiao , Chen Tao , Zhu Wenyu , Shen Tianlun , Si Jinhai
Published: April 2023

In this study, the time-spatial evolution of single-pulse femtosecond laser-induced plasma in sapphire is studied by using femtosecond time-resolved pump-probe shadowgraphy. Laser-induced sapphire damage occurred when the pump light energy was increased to 20 µJ. Based on its shadowgraphy image, the threshold electron density can be estimated to be about 2.48×1020cm−3. The evolution law of the transient peak electron density and its spatial position as femtosecond laser propagation in sapphire were researched. The transitions from single-focus to multi-focus as the laser focus shifted from the surface to a deeper part were observed from the transient shadowgraphy images. The focal point distance in multi-focus increased as the focal depth increased. The distributions of femtosecond laser-induced free electron plasma and the final microstructure were consistent with each other.
High dynamic range 3D measurement technique based on adaptive fringe projection and curve fitting
Authors: Xu Peng , Liu Jintao , Wang Jianhua
Published: April 2023

This paper proposes a technique combining an adaptive fringe projection algorithm and a curve fitting algorithm for the three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of highly reflective objects. First, an adaptive projection algorithm is proposed to avoid image saturation. The phase information obtained by projecting vertical and horizontal fringes is used to establish the pixel coordinate mapping between the camera image and the projected image, and the highlight area in the camera image is found and linearly interpolated. By modifying the mapping coordinates of the highlight area, the optimal light intensity coefficient template of the projection image is calculated, the coefficient template is mapped to the projector image, and it is multiplied by the standard projection fringes to obtain the adaptive projection fringes we need. Secondly, after obtaining the absolute phase map, the phase at the hole is calculated by fitting the correct phase values at both ends of the data hole, and the phase value closest to the actual surface of the object is obtained by performing a fitting in the horizontal and vertical directions. Multiple experimental results show that the algorithm can reconstruct high-quality 3D shapes for highly reflective objects, with high adaptability and reliability in high dynamic range measurements.
The contribution of the basal ganglia and cerebellum to motor learning: A neuro-computational approach
Authors: Baladron Javier , Vitay Julien , Fietzek Torsten , Hamker Fred H.
Published: April 2023

Motor learning involves a widespread brain network including the basal ganglia, cerebellum, motor cortex, and brainstem. Despite its importance, little is known about how this network learns motor tasks and which role different parts of this network take. We designed a systems-level computational model of motor learning, including a cortex-basal ganglia motor loop and the cerebellum that both determine the response of central pattern generators in the brainstem. First, we demonstrate its ability to learn arm movements toward different motor goals. Second, we test the model in a motor adaptation task with cognitive control, where the model replicates human data. We conclude that the cortex-basal ganglia loop learns via a novelty-based motor prediction error to determine concrete actions given a desired outcome, and that the cerebellum minimizes the remaining aiming error.
Risk mapping using serologic surveillance for selected One Health and transboundary diseases in Cambodian goats
Authors: Siengsanan-Lamont Jarunee , Kong Lida , Heng Theng , Khoeun Sokun , Tum Sothyra , Selleck Paul W. , Gleeson Laurence J. , Blacksell Stuart D.
Published: April 2023

In Cambodia, goat production and meat consumption are customary among Muslim communities. Recently, goat meat has gained popularity among Cambodians. Goat farmers use a traditional management system, including grazing, requiring minimal labour. The close proximity between humans and animals could increase the risk of zoonotic disease transmission. A serological survey was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of some priority zoonoses and high-impact animal diseases in the Cambodian goat population. A total of 540 samples were collected from goats in six provinces and analysed with commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays forBrucellaspecies, Q fever (Coxiella burnetii), Foot and Mouth Disease virus non-structural protein (FMDV NSP) and Peste des Petits Ruminants virus (PPRV). True seroprevalences with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI), taking into account imperfect tests, risk factors and odds ratios (ORs), were calculated to better understand the disease distribution and epidemiology. Independent variables used in statistical modellings included sex, body condition score, age, vaccination history, province and commune, while dependent variables were ELISA test results. The overall true prevalence of antibodies toBrucella spp.,C.burnetii, FMDV and PPRV, were 0.1% (95% CI 0.0, 1.0), 7.2% (95% CI 5.3, 9.7), 57.7% (95% CI 53.1, 62.3) and 0.0% (95% CI 0.0, 0.0), respectively. There was no identified risk factor for brucellosis and PPR. The two risk factors forC.burnetiiseropositivity were sex (p-value = 0.0005) and commune (p-value <0.0001). However, only the OR ofC.burnetiiseropositive female goat was significant at 9.7 (95% CI 2.7, 35.5) times higher than male. The risk factors of FMD NSP seropositivity were age (p-value = 0.001) and commune (p-value <0.0001). Only the age ’more than two-year-old’ group with a significant OR of 6.2 (95% CI 2.1, 18.4) using the ’up to one-year-old’ group as the reference. In summary,Brucella spp. seroprevalence was low, while no evidence of PPRV antibodies was detected in the goat populations.C.burnetiiseroprevalence in female goats was significantly higher than for males, and there were significant differences inC.burnetiiseroprevalence between communes. The overall FMDV NSP seroprevalence was high, especially in older animals. Vaccination should be advocated to protect animals from FMDV and improve productivity. As the impacts of these zoonoses on human and animal health were still unknown, further investigation of these zoonotic diseases’ epidemiology is recommended.
Quantitative assessment of atelectasis formation under high frequency jet ventilation during liver tumour ablation–A computer tomography study
Authors: Galmén Karolina , Jakobsson Jan G. , Perchiazzi Gaetano , Freedman Jacob , Harbut Piotr
Published: April 2023

Background

High frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) can be used to minimise sub-diaphragmal organ displacements. Treated patients are in a supine position, under general anaesthesia and fully muscle relaxed. These are factors that are known to contribute to the formation of atelectasis. The HFJV-catheter is inserted freely inside the endotracheal tube and the system is therefore open to atmospheric pressure.

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the formation of atelectasis over time during HFJV in patients undergoing liver tumour ablation under general anaesthesia.

Method

In this observational study twenty-five patients were studied. Repeated computed tomography (CT) scans were taken at the start of HFJV and every 15 minutes thereafter up until 45 minutes. From the CT images, four lung compartments were defined: hyperinflated, normoinflated, poorly inflated and atelectatic areas. The extension of each lung compartment was expressed as a percentage of the total lung area.

Result

Atelectasis at 30 minutes, 7.9% (SD 3.5, p = 0.002) and at 45 minutes 8,1% (SD 5.2, p = 0.024), was significantly higher compared to baseline 5.6% (SD 2.5). The amount of normoinflated lung volumes were unchanged over the period studied. Only a few minor perioperative respiratory adverse events were noted.

Conclusion

Atelectasis during HFJV in stereotactic liver tumour ablation increased over the first 45 minutes but tended to stabilise with no impact on normoinflated lung volume. Using HFJV during stereotactic liver ablation is safe regarding formation of atelectasis.
Fresh keeping decision and coordination of fresh agricultural products supply chain under carbon cap-and-trade
Authors: Yang Yang , Yao Guanxin
Published: April 2023

Considering the carbon emissions caused by the fresh-keeping of fresh agricultural products, this paper studied the rules of fresh-keeping decision-making in the two-echelon fresh agricultural product supply chain led by suppliers under the carbon cap-and-trade policy. In addition, we designed two contracts, cost-sharing contract and two-part pricing contract, to coordinate the supplier’s fresh-keeping decision and the supply chain’s revenue. The results show that: whether the carbon cap-and-trade policy is implemented or not, the higher the consumer’s preference for freshness and the lower the price sensitivity coefficient of consumers, the more favorable it is for suppliers to improve their fresh-keeping efforts. Under the implementation of carbon cap-and-trade policy, suppliers’ fresh-keeping efforts are only related to the carbon transaction price, not the carbon cap; the higher the carbon transaction price, the less the supplier’s fresh-keeping efforts, but the more the supplier’s income; the smaller the cost coefficient of carbon emission reduction and the larger the coefficient of carbon emission reduction, the more favorable it is for suppliers to increase their fresh-keeping efforts; both cost-sharing contract and two-part pricing contract can coordinate the supply chain of fresh agricultural products, but they have different application scope and coordination effect. These conclusions are of great significance to the operation and management of fresh agricultural products suppliers, the improvement of consumers’ quality of life and the protection of ecological environment under carbon cap-and-trade.
Variation in anthelmintic responses are driven by genetic differences among diverse C. elegans wild strains
Authors: Shaver Amanda O. , Wit Janneke , Dilks Clayton M. , Crombie Timothy A. , Li Hanchen , Aroian Raffi V. , Andersen Erik C.
Published: April 2023

Treatment of parasitic nematode infections in humans and livestock relies on a limited arsenal of anthelmintic drugs that have historically reduced parasite burdens. However, anthelmintic resistance (AR) is increasing, and little is known about the molecular and genetic causes of resistance for most drugs. The free-living roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans has proven to be a tractable model to understand AR, where studies have led to the identification of molecular targets of all major anthelmintic drug classes. Here, we used genetically diverse C. elegans strains to perform dose-response analyses across 26 anthelmintic drugs that represent the three major anthelmintic drug classes (benzimidazoles, macrocyclic lactones, and nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonists) in addition to seven other anthelmintic classes. First, we found that C. elegans strains displayed similar anthelmintic responses within drug classes and significant variation across drug classes. Next, we compared the effective concentration estimates to induce a 10% maximal response (EC10) and slope estimates of each dose-response curve of each strain to the laboratory reference strain, which enabled the identification of anthelmintics with population-wide differences to understand how genetics contribute to AR. Because genetically diverse strains displayed differential susceptibilities within and across anthelmintics, we show that C. elegans is a useful model for screening potential nematicides before applications to helminths. Third, we quantified the levels of anthelmintic response variation caused by genetic differences among individuals (heritability) to each drug and observed a significant correlation between exposure closest to the EC10 and the exposure that exhibited the most heritable responses. These results suggest drugs to prioritize in genome-wide association studies, which will enable the identification of AR genes.
Naturally occurring substitution of an amino acid in a plant virus gene-silencing suppressor enhances viral adaptation to increasing thermal stress
Authors: Cai Lina , Dang Mingqing , Yang Yawen , Mei Ruoxin , Li Fan , Tao Xiaorong , Palukaitis Peter , Beckett Randy , Miller W. Allen , Gray Stewart M. , Xu Yi
Published: April 2023

Cereal yellow dwarf virus (CYDV-RPV) encodes a P0 protein that functions as a viral suppressor of RNA silencing (VSR). The strength of silencing suppression is highly variable among CYDV-RPV isolates. In this study, comparison of the P0 sequences of CYDV-RPV isolates and mutational analysis identified a single C-terminal amino acid that influenced P0 RNA-silencing suppressor activity. A serine at position 247 was associated with strong suppressor activity, whereas a proline at position 247 was associated with weak suppressor activity. Amino acid changes at position 247 did not affect the interaction of P0 with SKP1 proteins from Hordeum vulgare (barley) or Nicotiana benthamiana. Subsequent studies found P0 proteins containing a P247 residue were less stable than the P0 proteins containing an S247 residue. Higher temperatures contributed to the lower stability and in planta and the P247 P0 proteins were subject to degradation via the autophagy-mediated pathway. A P247S amino acid residue substitution in P0 increased CYDV-RPV replication after expression in agroinfiltrated plant leaves and increased viral pathogenicity of P0 generated from the heterologous Potato virus X expression vector system. Moreover, an S247 CYDV-RPV could outcompete the P247 CYDV-RPV in a mixed infection in natural host at higher temperature. These traits contributed to increased transmission by aphid vectors and could play a significant role in virus competition in warming climates. Our findings underscore the capacity of a plant RNA virus to adapt to climate warming through minor genetic changes in gene-silencing suppressor, resulting in the potential for disease persistence and prevalence.
Aggressively Millennial: A dialogue on & Juliet
Authors: Boffone Trevor , Rosvally Danielle
Published: April 2023

The authors of this dialogue, two Millennial theatre scholars, spill the tea on the West End and Toronto productions of & Juliet on the eve of its transfer to Broadway. This conversation considers the successes and challenges of & Juliet as a contemporary jukebox musical, and includes analyses of the integration of Max Martin’s songbook and David West Read’s libretto. The authors discuss audience reception in London and Toronto while signalling why Millennial audiences might be drawn to the musical. This dialogue questions & Juliet’s role as a critical piece of popular culture, musical theatre history and Shakespearian adaptation, while considering what & Juliet offers to the canon of Shakespearean remixes.
Sichuan Peppercorn and the Birth of Numbing Spices in East Asia
Authors: Jacques Guillaume , D'Alpoim Guedes Jade
Published: April 2023

Sichuan peppercorn Zanthoxylum sp. is an important food condiment, currently used in East Asia and South Asia. In this paper, we review genetic, archaeological, and linguistic evidence regarding the use of Zanthoxylum by ancient human populations. The evidence from these three disciplines converge to suggest that its earliest attested use dates from the mid-fourth millennium BCE, in Western Sichuan, making it one of the oldest spices in East Asia. The paper also discusses how this spice was supplemented, and even superseded, by the introduction of the American Chili Pepper (Capsicum spp.). in the seventeenth century. We further argue that differences in the biosynthesis of numbing compounds between cultivars of Zanthoxylum sp. in northern and southern Western China that are due to deep evolutionary processes may have in turn influenced culinary preferences.
Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Efficacy Signals of Larsucosterol (DUR-928) in Alcohol-Associated Hepatitis
Authors: Hassanein Tarek , McClain Craig J. , Vatsalya Vatsalya , Stein Lance L. , Flamm Steven L. , Martin Paul , Cave Matthew C. , Mitchell Mack , Barton Bruce , Nagy Laura , Szabo Gyongyi , McCullough Arthur , Dasarathy Srinivasin , Shah Jaymin , Blevins Christina , Scott Deborah , Krebs William , Brown James E. , Lin WeiQi
Published: April 2023

INTRODUCTION:

This study is to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of larsucosterol (DUR-928 or 25HC3S) in subjects with alcohol-associated hepatitis (AH), a devastating acute illness without US Food and Drug Administration–approved therapies.

METHODS:

This phase 2a, multicenter, open-label, dose escalation study evaluated the safety, PK, and efficacy signals of larsucosterol in 19 clinically diagnosed subjects with AH. Based on the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, 7 subjects were considered to have moderate AH and 12 to have severe AH. All subjects received 1 or 2 intravenous infusions (72 hours apart) of larsucosterol at a dose of 30, 90, or 150 mg and were followed up for 28 days. Efficacy signals from a subgroup of subjects with severe AH were compared with those from 2 matched arms of those with severe AH treated with standard of care (SOC), including corticosteroids, from a contemporaneous study.

RESULTS:

All 19 larsucosterol-treated subjects survived the 28-day study. Fourteen (74%) of all subjects including 8 (67%) of the subjects with severe AH were discharged ≤72 hours after receiving a single infusion. There were no drug-related serious adverse events nor early terminations due to the treatment. PK profiles were not affected by disease severity. Biochemical parameters improved in most subjects. Serum bilirubin levels declined notably from baseline to day 7 and day 28, and MELD scores were reduced at day 28. The efficacy signals compared favorably with those from 2 matched groups treated with SOC. Lille scores at day 7 were <0.45 in 16 of the 18 (89%) subjects with day 7 samples. Lille scores from 8 subjects with severe AH who received 30 or 90 mg larsucosterol (doses used in phase 2b trial) were statistically significantly lower (P < 0.01) than those from subjects with severe AH treated with SOC from the contemporaneous study.

DISCUSSION:

Larsucosterol was well tolerated at all 3 doses in subjects with AH without safety concerns. Data from this pilot study showed promising efficacy signals in subjects with AH. Larsucosterol is being evaluated in a phase 2b multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled (AHFIRM) trial.
Desafios e possibilidades da extensão universitária para a qualificação do trabalho em rede
Authors: Dias Marina Abreu , Rios Patrícia dos Santos , Stefani Amanda Cunha , Hasse Mariana
Published: April 2023

O trabalho em rede tem se mostrado fundamental para o cuidado adequado a situações complexas, como é o caso da violência sexual. Entretanto, ainda há diversas barreiras para a efetivação desse tipo de atuação e por isso a qualificação dos profissionais e serviços que compõem tais redes é fundamental. Com esse objetivo foi criado o projeto de extensão “Educação permanente para o cuidado integral a pessoas em situação de violência sexual”. O projeto foi desenvolvido durante o ano de 2021 por integrantes do Núcleo de Atenção Integral a Vítimas de Agressão Sexual do Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (NUAVIDAS/HC-UFU), serviço que atende vítimas de violência sexual. Em função da pandemia de Covid-19, o projeto foi desenvolvido de forma remota e a experiência, apesar de não contemplar completamente os objetivos iniciais, mostrou-se potente para o fortalecimento da rede e sensibilização de profissionais e comunidade sobre o problema da violência.
MÉTODOS PARA A ESTIMATIVA DA MASSA DE FORRAGEM EM DOSSÉIS DE CAPIM-MARANDU
Authors: Michelle Alves Kalita , de Oliveira Rocha Gabriel , Alves Miler de Oliveira Dallety Haloma , Gonçalves Felisbino Douglas , Dias de Moraes Lucas , Rozalino Santos Manoel Eduardo
Published: April 2023

Este estudo comparou três métodos para a estimativa das massas de forragem e dos seus componentes morfológicos em dosséis de Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu (capim-marandu). Dois experimentos foram realizados, sendo o primeiro simulando o diferimento e o segundo, a lotação contínua. No primeiro experimento, foram avaliados três métodos para estimativa de massa de forragem (métodos do quadrado, da linha e do perfilho) em dosséis diferidos com três alturas iniciais (15, 30 e 45 cm). No segundo experimento, foram avaliados dois métodos para estimativa de massa de forragem (métodos do quadrado e do perfilho) em dosséis com três alturas médias (15, 30 e 45 cm) no verão. Os experimentos foram conduzidos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema de parcelas subdivididas, com quatro repetições. As parcelas foram as alturas dos dosséis e as subparcela, os métodos de estimativa da massa de forragem. Em geral, os dosséis mais altos apresentam maior massa de forragem. O método do perfilho resultou em massas de forragem total e de forragem senescente inferiores ao demais métodos. O método do perfilho subestima as massas de forragem total e de forragem senescente. Para estimar as massas de forragem total e de forragem senescente do pasto, os métodos do quadrado e da linha são adequados.
Decoloniality, language and literacy: conversations with teacher educators Edited by Carolyn Mckinney and Pam Christie
Authors:   University of the Western Cape, Hiss Amy
Published: April 2023

The book offers a view on the role of teacher educators as transformation agents of language and literacy practices in South African classrooms and PGCE/teaching programmes. The book explores the way in which the authors themselves as teacher educators/facilitators and researchers show how multilingualism and multiliteracies can be curated by working with different modalities and exposure to different school spaces across the economic spectrum in South Africa. The book offers a view on how teacher educators and pre- service teachers can build collaborative relationships with each other in developing creative ways in which their own positioning and knowledge aid in developing linguistically rich learning environments, breaking down the status quo of coloniality in education. Through the perspective of ‘third’ spaces (Guiterrez, 2008) the authors demonstrate ways in which pluriversality (Mignolo, 2013) can emerge through collaborative language practices in the classroom, which by and large paves the way for decolonised education in South Africa.
The Effect of Familiar Music on Long-Term Declarative Memory in College Students
Authors: Sayar Anita
Published: April 2023

This study explored the effect of familiar music exposure on long-term declarative memory (LT-DM) was in college students. LT-DM stores facts or concepts that can be consciously recalled over a prolonged period. Twenty-one college students were equally randomized between two groups, Group A and Group B. The study was conducted over three sessions (7+/- 2 days between each). During the first session, both groups were given the same passages to study. Group A listened to familiar music of their choice while studying, and Group B studied in silence. In the second session, both groups were first given a multiple-choice test on the passages they had studied during session one. Subsequently, another set of passages were given to both groups to study. This time, Group B listened to familiar music of their choice while studying, and Group A studied in silence. In the third session, both groups were tested through multiple-choice questions over passages they had studied during the second session. Test responses were scored. The mean composite score of both groups with and without music were 15.4/20 (77%) and 14.9/20 (74.5%), respectively, indicating no significant change in LT-DM recall with familiar music exposure (p= 0.50). Group A displayed a trend towards increased LT-DM recall with music compared to silence and demonstrated a statistically significant lower mean score than Group B in the silent condition (p= 0.027). Overall, this study found that listening to familiar music had no significant effect on LT-DM recall in college students, however highly individualized variations may occur.