bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the governance arrangements for healthcare worker COVID-19 protection in Kenya: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kazungu Jacob , Kagwanja Nancy N , Wang Huihui , Chuma Jane , Munge Kenneth
Published: April 2023

Background
Healthcare workers (HCWs) face a high risk of infection during pandemics or public health emergencies as demonstrated in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding how governments respond can inform public health control measures and support health system functioning. An economic impact analysis examining HCW COVID-19 infections in Kenya and three other countries estimated that the total economic costs related to HCW COVID-19 infections costs and deaths in Kenya were US$113.2 million (range US$35.8-US$246.1). We examined the governance arrangements for and implementation of HCW protection during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya between March 2020 and March 2021.
Methods
We conducted a scoping review of 44 policy and legislative documents and reports on HCW protection and 22 media articles. We adopted the transparency, accountability, participation, integrity and capacity (TAPIC) governance framework to analyse and summarize our findings into policy gaps and implementation challenges. We followed the guidance of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRSIMA-ScR).
Results
Policy design gaps included inadequate provisions for emerging threats, inconsistencies with the devolved context and inadequate structures to monitor, inform and respond to HCW COVID-19 infections. Implementation challenges were attributed to inadequate quantity and quality of PPE, difficulty in accessing medical care for HCWs, delays in HCW remuneration, insufficient infection prevention and control measures, the top-down application of plans, difficulties in working in a decentralized context, and pre-existing public finance management (PFM) bottlenecks.
Conclusion
Implementation of HCW protection during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond could leverage the revamping of current legislation on labour relations to reflect devolved governance and develop a broader and long-term approach to occupational health and safety implementation that considers all HCWs. Improvements in PFM arrangements coupled with increased investment in the health sector and attention to efficient use of resources will also impact positively on HCW protection.
Changes in trace elements and metallothioneins levels and their relationship with clinical, biochemical, and inflammatory parameters in patients with COVID-19 during the early ICU phase
Authors: Herrera-Quintana Lourdes , Vázquez-Lorente Héctor , Gamarra-Morales Yenifer , Molina-López Jorge , Adam Vojtech , Richtera Lukas , Planells Elena
Published: April 2023

Background
The levels of trace elements and Metallothioneins (MTs) could play a key role in modulating the inflammatory reaction and pathogenesis of COVID-19. Their effects on clinical variables are of interest for the characterization and management of this disease. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the association between circulating Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), and MTs levels, as well as their relationship with clinical, biochemical, and inflammatory parameters in critical care patients with COVID-19 at early Intensive Care Unit (ICU) phase.
Methods
A total of 86 critically ill patients with COVID-19 were monitored from the first day of admission to the ICU until the third day of stay. Clinical parameters were retrieved from the hospital database. Biochemical and inflammatory parameters were analyzed following enzymatic colorimetry and immunoassay procedures. Serum samples were used to assess mineral levels by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry and MTs levels by differential pulse voltammetric.
Results
Levels of Cu and MTs decreased (all P ≤ 0.046) after 3 days of ICU stay, increasing the prevalence of Cu deficient values from 50–65.3% (P = 0.015) on the third day of ICU stay. Fe and Zn were shown to have a predictive value for mortality and severity. Changes in Fe were directly related to changes in Cu and Mn (all r ≥ 0.266; P ≤ 0.019). In contrast, changes in MTs were inversely related to changes in Mn and albumin (all r≥–0.255; P ≤ 0.039).
Conclusions
The present study indicated a risk of trace element deficiencies related to different biochemical and clinical parameters. We suggest monitoring the mineral status and performing nutritional interventions, when appropriate, that could help to improve the altered parameters, such as inflammatory conditions and, thus, the prognosis in critically ill patients with COVID-19.
Network Pharmacology Prediction and Experimental Verification of Rhubarb-Peach Kernel Promoting Apoptosis in Endometriosis
Authors: Liao Zi , Lei Ya , Peng Li , Fu Xianyun , Wang Wei , Yang Dan
Published: April 2023

Background
" Rhubarb-Peach Kernel " herb pair (RP) one of the most frequently used drug pairs, has been used in traditional medicine in China to treat inflammation and diseases associated with pain. Although it is widely used clinically and has a remarkable curative effect, the mechanism of RP treatment for endometriosis (EMs) remains unclear due to its complicated components. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-endometriosis effect of RP, with emphasis on apoptosis via network pharmacology prediction, molecular docking and experimental verification.
Methods
The related ingredients and targets of RP in treating EMs were screened out using Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP), Tool for Molecular mechanism of Traditional Chinese Medicine (BATMAN-TCM), and GeneCards database. The data of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was obtained by the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interaction Gene/Proteins (STRING) Database. The Metascape database was adopt for Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. After that, the molecular docking of the main active ingredients and apoptosis targets was performed. Finally, the pro-apoptotic effect of RP was verified in hEM15a cells.
Results
A total of 32 RP compounds were collected. Forty-two matching targets were picked out as the correlative targets of RP in treating EMs. Among these, 18 hub targets including P53, CASP3 were recognized by the PPI network. KEGG enrichment analysis discovered that the regulation of apoptosis was one of the potential mechanisms of RP against EMs. Anthraquinone compounds, flavonoids, and triterpenes in RP were identified as crucial active ingredients, involved in the pro-apoptotic effect, which was confirmed subsequently by molecular docking. Additionally, it was verified that RP treatment promoted apoptosis and inhibited the proliferation of EMs cells (assessed by MTT and Flow cytometry). Moreover, the induction of apoptosis in treated EMs cells can be due to the regulation of apoptosis-related protein expression, including P53, BAX, and CASP3.
Conclusions
Our results highlight the potential of RP as the target to treat EMs by promoting apoptosis. Anthraquinones, flavonoids and triterpenoids are the possible pro-apoptotic components in RP.
An application of mist generator as a way to reduce particulate matter during high concentration episodes at urban forests
Authors: Yoo Sin-Yee , Kim Taehee , Choi Sumin , Park Chan-Ryul , Song Dong-Ha
Published: April 2023

A mist generator is designed to prevent particulate matter (PM) damage to trees by reducing PM by combining mist and PM during high PM episodes. In addition, mist can minimize the dry heat damage caused by high temperatures and low relative humidity during high PM episodes. Herein, we tested the effects of PM reduction and microclimate condition change with mist generators in urban forests with high PM episodes. We measured changes in microclimate conditions and the concentration of PM before, during, and after mist spraying in urban parks (Yangjae Citizen Forest, YCF; Cheongdam Road Park, CRP) from May 6 to 8, 2020. PM changes in YCF and CRP were observed immediately after mist spraying and were found to return to the previous concentrations. At the morning rush hour and lunch, mist, high wind speed, and low relative humidity conditions were related to the increase of the mist movement, resulting in increasing PM (2.5–10 µm) and the deposition of these PM. During the evening rush hour, high relative humidity and low wind speed affected PM concentrations more than mist. However, no significant differences were observed in the microclimate conditions after mist spraying. Despite these preliminary results, these findings indicate that mist may reduce PM and PM damage to trees during high PM episodes.
Landslide detection by deep learning based semantic segmentation using Sentinel-1 intensity images
Authors: Ito Keisho , Kinoshita Yohei
Published: April 2023

Fast-moving landslides associated with earthquakes and/or heavy rains can cause significant human and socioeconomic damage. Satellite synthetic aperture radar (SAR) can observe wide areas regardless of the presence of clouds and sunlight, and thus is a promising tool for detecting landslides immediately after a disaster occurrence. Recently, the application of deep learning-based semantic segmentation to satellite optical imagery is active for the landslide detection, but its application to SAR imagery is still limited. Here we investigated landslide detection capability of deep learning-based semantic segmentation using pre- and post-disaster Sentinel-1 SAR intensity images. We used U-Net as the deep learning model and validated the method on four disaster cases composed of two earthquake and two heavy rain events. In the cases of the 2018 Hokkaido Eastern Iburi earthquake and the July 2017 Northern Kyushu heavy rainfall, detection models trained in the same single case or on multiple cases could identify large landslides and spatial concentrations of damage areas. The model trained in the 2018 Hokkaido Eastern Iburi earthquake provided the highest Kappa coefficient (0.624) when we applied it to the same case. The proposed method could detect landslides that had not been detected by emergency aerial observation, demonstrating the effectiveness of the combination of satellite SAR and deep learning for the landslide detection. However, the detection performance of trained models was degraded when they were applied to cases with different characteristics in terms of topography, vegetation and landslide occurrence mechanisms from training cases. Therefore, our results indicated that detection models should be trained in various cases for improving versatility. For future practical use, further validations by other disaster cases using various kinds of satellite SARs are needed.
The natural product co-evolved pyrroloquinoline quinone gene enhances their production when heterologously expressed in a variety of Streptomycetes
Authors: Wang Xinran , Chen Ningxin , Cruz-Morales Pablo , Zhong Biming , Zhang Yangming , Acharya Suneil , Li Zhibo , Deng Huaxiang , Luo Xiaozhou , Keasling Jay
Published: April 2023

Streptomyces has the largest repertoire of natural product biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), yet developing a universal engineering paradigm for different Streptomyces strains is challenging. That some bacteria and fungi are more adept than others at synthesizing natural products implies the existence of key genes co-evolved with the BGCs for high productivity, which may provide a potential universal strategy for Streptomyces to produce more target products. We show here that genes co-evolved with natural product BGCs in Streptomyces can be identified by pan-genomic analysis. Among the 598 genes that co-evolved with polyketide BGCs was the gene cluster encoding for the co-factor pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ). When the PQQ gene cluster was engineered into 11 Streptomyces strains it enhanced production of naturally-produced polyketides with up to 40 fold and activated silent gene clusters. This study provides a new engineering paradigm for improving polyketide production and discovering new biosynthetic gene clusters and potential therapies.
An unusual clinical presentation of cervical extradural meningiomas and detected with neuromuscular ultrasound: A case report and literature review
Authors: Hsieh Pei-Chen , Lu Johnny Chuieng-Yi , Huang Shih-Chiang , Kuo Hung-Chou
Published: April 2023

Background: Extradural meningiomas are exceedingly rare, with most occurring in the thoracic region. If the tumor occurs in the cervical region, it may invade the adjacent nerve root and brachial plexus. Usually, the patient may not be diagnosed until presenting with signs of myelopathy, such as progressive paresis and numbness.
Case presentation: We report a 64-year-old male patient with neck pain followed by numbness and very mild weakness of the left hand for 6 months. The general neurological examination was grossly normal expect for mild grasping weakness over left side. Neuromuscular ultrasound revealed a lesion over the left 7th cervical root. The patient received subtotal tumor excision followed by radiotherapy for residual tumor. Histopathology revealed atypical meningioma (WHO grade II).
Conclusion: Neuromuscular ultrasound allowed for detection and diagnosis cervical brachial plexus tumor at an early stage before significant focal neurological defects developed.
Validating applicability of strain data calibrated in geodetic range on the seismic frequency band by examining Rayleigh wave amplitude ratio
Authors: Yabe Suguru , Imanishi Kazutoshi , Matsumoto Norio
Published: April 2023

Although borehole strain observatories provide useful information about crustal deformation, they need to be calibrated because their highly sensitive observations are affected by structural heterogeneity around the sensors used for settlements. The Geological Survey of Japan developed a strain observation network in southwest Japan to monitor slow-slip events in the Nankai Trough. In this study, the vertical axial strain data of this network as well as the horizontal strain of two newly constructed stations were calibrated using the method used in a previous study. Although this calibration was performed in the tidal frequency band, this study confirmed that the calibration is also valid in the frequency band of seismic surface waves at ~ 0.01 Hz. This fact enables us to use strain data not only for geodetic analysis of crustal deformation but also for the analysis of surface waves from moderate regional earthquakes. This study shows that synthetic strain waveforms are consistent with observed ones, suggesting the usefulness of strain data in centroid moment tensor analysis to improve the resolution of seismic moment tensors.
Comparison of different prognostic scores in estimating short- and long-term mortality in COVID-19 patients above 60 years old in a university hospital in Belgium
Authors: Hauwermeiren Carmen Van , Claessens Marie , Berland Mathilde , Dumoulin Baptiste , Lieten Siddharta , Surquin Murielle , Benoit Florence
Published: April 2023

PURPOSE: Multiple scoring systems were used for risk stratification in COVID-19 patients. The objective was to determine among 6 scores which performed the best in predicting short-and long-term mortality in hospitalized COVID-19 patients ≥ 60 years.
METHODS: An observational, retrospective cohort study conducted between 21/10/2020 - 20/01/2021. 6 scores were calculated (Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), 4C Mortality Score (4CMS), NEWS score (NEWS), quick-SOFA score (qSOFA), and Quick COVID-19 Severity Index (qCSI)). We included unvaccinated hospitalized patients with COVID-19 ≥ 60 years old in Brugmann hospital, detected by PCR and/or suggestive CT thorax images. Old and nosocomial infections, and patients admitted immediately at the intensive care unit were excluded.
RESULTS: 199 patients were included, mean age was 76.2 years (60 - 99). 56 patients (28%) died within 1 year after the first day of hospitalization. The 4CMS predicted the best intrahospital, 30 days and 6 months mortality, with area under the ROC curve (AUROC) 0.695 (0.59-0.8), 0.76 (0.66-0.86) and 0.73 (0.64-0.82) respectively. The CCI came right after with respectively AUROC of 0.68 (0.58-0.77), 0.74 (0.66-0.82) and 0.72 (0.64-0.8). To predict mortality at 12 months after hospitalization, the CCI had the highest AUROC with 0.74 (0.66-0.81), before the 4CMS with 0.695 (0.61-0.78). CONCLUSION: Among 6 scores, the 4CMS was the best to predict intrahospital, 30-day and 6-month mortality. To predict mortality at 12 months, CCI had the best performance before 4CMS. This reflects the importance of considering comorbidities for short- and long-term mortality after COVID 19.
Sandwich Technique and Amniotic Membrane Transplantation as an Effective Method in Repairing Corneal Perforations
Authors: Ciftci Mukaddes Damla , Selver Ozlem Barut
Published: April 2023

Purpose
To evaluate effectiveness of human amniotic membrane (hAM) transplantation in patients with non-traumatic corneal perforation.
Methods
This retrospective chart review included the patients who were underwent hAM transplantation with sandwich technique between March 2020 to January 2023 at Ege University Hospital, Turkey. Medical records of the patients including demographic data, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) that was measured with Snellen chart, detailed ophthalmological examination and the need for additional surgical intervention after hAM transplantation were evaluated. Complications, anatomical and functional results were presented.
Results
A total 9 eyes of 9 patients with non-traumatic corneal perforations were evaluated between 2020 and 2023. Size of perforation was ≤ 3 mm in all the eyes. The mean age of the patients was 67.77 ± 15.52. Female to male ratio was 1/8. Sandwich technique was used in all patients for hAM transplantation. Five of cases (55.55%) had infectious etiology and 4 of them (44.44%) had inflammatory etiology. Of the infectious corneal perforations, 3 (33.33%) were herpes simplex virus-induced neurotrophic keratopathy and 2 (22.22%) were bacterial keratitis. The mean residence time of the amniotic membrane on the ocular surface was 21 ± 8.05 days. Tectonic keratoplasty was needed in 1 eye (11.11%). Corneal patch grafting was required in 1 of eyes (11.11%). Evisceration was performed in 1 eye (11.11%) of a patient with no light perception who had no visual prognosis. Amniotic membrane detachment was observed in one patient as a surgical-related complication associated with hAM transplantation.
Conclusions
hAM transplantation is one of the successful treatment methods in treatment of relatively small corneal perforation. Considering the difficulty of finding a donor cornea and the easier access to the amniotic membrane, it seems like a good alternative treatment to reduce or postpone the need for tectonic keratoplasty.
Enzybiotic-mediated antimicrobial functionalization of polyhydroxyalkanoate nanoparticles
Authors: Blanco Francisco G. , Vázquez Roberto , Hernández-Arriaga Ana M. , García Pedro , Prieto M. Auxiliadora
Published: April 2023

Background: Increasing antibiotic resistance is depleting the available arsenal of these conventional antimicrobials, thus making the development of alternative antibacterial agents a priority for biomedical research. This is the case forStreptococcus penumoniae, a severe respiratory pathogen which, upon colonization of the lung alveoli below the lung surfactant layer (LS), causes community-acquired pneumonia. One of the alternative approaches is the use of enzybiotics, phage-encoded peptidoglycan hydrolases that degrade the bacterial cell wall, thus leading to their death by osmotic shock. To meet therapeutic parameters such as longerin vivohalf-life or targeted activity release, the design of enzybiotic formulations is required. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) nanoparticles (NPs), present some ideal properties as biomedical nanocarriers such as their inherent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to be vehiculized through hydrophobic barriers, including the lung surfactant (LS). Here, we develop PHA NPs as a platform for the immobilization of enzybiotics againstS. pneumoniaevia a minimal PHA affinity tag. Results In this study, we tagged the Cpl-711 enzybiotic, which specifically targetsS. pneumoniae, with the minimal PHA affinity peptide MinP, resulting in the M711 protein. Then, a PHA nanoparticulate suspension with adequate physicochemical properties for pulmonary delivery was formulated, and M711 was immobilized on their surface. Finally, we assessed the antipneumococcal activity of the nanosystem against planktonic and sessile forms of the pathogen. The resulting pioneer nanosystem displayed sustained antimicrobial activity against free cells, and effectively disaggregatedS. pneumoniaebiofilms. Conclusions Our findings indicate tag-mediated immobilization of enzybiotics as an effective method for the antimicrobial functionalization of PHA NPs. This straightforward approach may be extrapolated to other enzybiotics (or cargo proteins) with other specificities, highlighting the versatility of the system
Trade-offs of biodiversity and ecosystem services in European forest edges vs interiors
Authors: Vanneste Thomas , Depauw Leen , De Lombaerde Emiel , Meeussen Camille , Govaert Sanne , De Pauw Karen , Sanczuk Pieter , Bollmann Kurt , Brunet Jörg , Calders Kim , Cousins Sara , Diekmann Martin , Gasperin Cristina , Graae Bente , Hedwall Per-Ola , Iacopetti Giovanni , Lenoir Jonathan , Lindmo Sigrid , Orczewska Anna , Ponette Quentin , Plue Jan , Selvi Federico , Spicher Fabien , Verbeeck Hans , Zellweger Florian , Verheyen Kris , Vangansbeke Pieter , De Frenne Pieter
Published: April 2023

Forest biodiversity and ecosystem services have been predominantly quantified in forest interiors, well away from edge influences. However, edges represent a significant portion of the forest cover in many regions world-wide. We quantified a broad set of plant biodiversity and ecosystem service indicators in 225 plots along forest edge-to-interior transects across Europe. We found strong trade-offs: while phylogenetic diversity (evolutionary measure of biodiversity), the proportion of forest specialists, nutrient cycling and heatwave buffering increased towards the forest interior, species richness (taxonomic measure of biodiversity), nectar production potential, stemwood biomass and overall tree regeneration were promoted towards the forest edge. These trade-offs were mainly driven by forest structural complexity differences from edge to interior. As fragmentation continues, forest edges increasingly reshape biodiversity and ecosystem service provisioning, which is yet to be integrated in forest management and policy to ensure sustainability in ecosystem services delivery.
Evaluation of Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases for cellulose functionalization
Authors: Cabañas-Romero L. Verónica , Martínez Josefina , Valenzuela Susana V.
Published: April 2023

Eucalyptus and bacterial celluloses were functionalized by oxidation with a lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase, SamLPMO10C, to increase their contents in carboxyl groups by 2.4 and 2.7-fold, respectively. The functionalized celluloses were used to generate paper supports containing silver nanoparticles. A solution of silver nitrate was added to oxidized celluloses as a source of Ag+ which allowed the interaction between silver cations and hydroxyl or carboxyl groups. Following, paper supports were produced, and the formation of silver nanoparticles was induced by heat reduction. The presence of silver nanoparticles was validated by scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry tests allowed to measure the silver content in the paper supports as well as the migration of silver in an aqueous media. The Ag-functionalized paper supports showed strong antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus.
A Comparative Performance Assessment for Prediction of Loan Approval in Financial Sector
Authors: HOTA LOPAMUDRA
Published: April 2023

Loans are assets that generate income in terms of interest to banks.Lending a loan to a customer creates credit and liability for the bankas well as the customer. The profit and loss of a bank depend on thecustomer’s ability to pay back the loan or not, i.e., defaulter or not.Extensive research on models for loan prediction is crucial for bankingsectors. Ensemble learning has been incorporated into the implementa-tion of many banking applications as improved machine learning modelsare continually being developed, and numerous studies have addressedthe superiority of ensemble learning. The accuracy (ACC), Receiver Operating characteristic Curve (ROC) Area Under the Curve (AUC),Kolmogorov-Smirnov Statistic (KS), Cohen’s Kappa Score (CKS), BrierScore (BS), and of ensemble algorithms, comprising bagging, boostingand Stacking, are all evaluated in this paper in context with the pre-diction of loan. Additionally, the neural network (NN), decision tree(DT), logistic regression (LR), Nave Bayes (NB), and support vec-tor machine (SVM) are five well-known baseline classifiers that areregarded as benchmarks. The experimental results affirm that ensem-ble learning performs better than individual learning. LR outperforms the baseline classifiers. Whereas the RF performs the best among theensemble approaches, followed by XGB and LightGBM, respectively.
Synthesis and screening of Clerodane Diterpene analogues from 16 hydroxycleroda 3,13(14)-Zdien 15,16- olide for potential anti-mycobacterial activity
Authors: KURATI SONY P , Bothsa Sruthi S. , Kimariyo Patrick F. , Guruvelli Sangeetha , Perupogu Suvarna B. , Muthyala Murali Krishna K.
Published: April 2023

In recent years, Clerodane diterpenes, a class of bioactive compounds, have come into the spotlight due to their amazing bioactivities. The "Indian Mast Tree" is a common name for a tall evergreen tree scientifically known as Polyalthia longifolia var. pendula. Three novel clerodane diterpene analogues were obtained by synthesizing 16-hydroxycleroda-3,13(14)-Zdien-15,16-olide (Lactone) with primary amines. Anti-tubercular activity was determined using Microplate Alamar Blue Assay. Among all the synthesised compounds from methanolic extract of seeds, results clearly showed that compounds 3 and 5 have significant anti tb activity with an MIC of 1.56 µg/ml against the Mycobacterium tuberculosis MTB H37Rv bacilli strain than the gold standard drugs pyrazinamide (3.125 µg/ml), ciprofloxacin (3.125 µg/ml), streptomycin (6.25 µg/ml) and rifampicin (6.25 µg/ml). Antimicrobial activity was also carried out by agar well diffusion method and its minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined against Gram + ve (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram -ve (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Compound 5 exhibited significant antibacterial activity with Zone of inhibition of 10.8 mm with Gram + ve and 7.95 mm with Gram -ve bacteria at a conc of 50 µg/ml respectively. Furthermore, Compound 5 showed MIC at 5 µg/ml with both the bacterial strains. While tested for anti-fungal activity, Compound 5 showed Zone of inhibition of 10.8mm at conc. of 50 µg/ml. In the current investigation, three novel heterocycles (compounds 3–5) of the diterpenoid (compound 1) were prepared, in high yield, using one-pot, efficient approach. Further studies on in vivo, cytotoxic tests, mechanism of action and synthesis of a series of lactones will be used to determine the structural activity relationship of bioactive diterpenoid 1.
Nutrition intervention informed by indirect calorimetry compared to predictive equations to achieve weight goals in geriatric rehabilitation inpatients: The NEED study
Authors: Hettiarachchi Jeewanadee , Fetterplace Kate , Maier Andrea Britta , Reijnierse Esmee
Published: April 2023

Objectives: To assess if nutritional interventions informed by indirect calorimetry (IC), compared to predictive equations, show greater improvements in achieving weight goals, muscle mass, strength, physical and functional performance.
Design: Quasi-experimental study
Setting and participants: Geriatric rehabilitation inpatients referred to dietitian
Intervention and measurements: Patients were allocated based on admission ward to either the IC or equation (EQ) group. Measured resting metabolic rate (RMR) by IC was communicated to the treating dietitian for the IC group but concealed for the EQ group. Achieving weight goals was determined by comparing individualised weight goals with weight changes from inclusion to discharge (weight gain/loss: >2% change, maintenance: ≤2%). Muscle mass, strength, physical and functional performance were assessed at admission and discharge. Food intake was assessed twice over three-days at inclusion and before discharge using plate waste observation.
Results: Fifty-three patients were included (IC n=22; EQ n=31; age: 84.3±8.4 years). The measured RMR was lower than the estimated RMR within both groups [mean difference IC -282 (95%CI -490;-203), EQ -273 (-381;-42) kcal/day)] and comparable between-groups (median IC 1271 [interquartile range 1111;1446] versus EQ 1302 [1135;1397] kcal/day, p=0.800). Energy targets in the IC group were lower than the EQ group [mean difference -317 (95%CI -479;-155) kcal/day]. There were no between-group differences in energy intake, achieving weight goals, changes in muscle mass, strength, physical and functional performance.
Conclusions: In geriatric rehabilitation inpatients, nutritional interventions informed by IC compared to predictive equations showed no greater improvement in achieving weight goals, muscle mass, strength, physical and functional performance. IC facilitates more accurate determination of energy targets in this population. However, evidence for the potential benefits of its use in nutrition interventions was limited by a lack of agreement between patients’ energy intake and energy targets.
Intraoperative Aortic Dissection During Aortic Root Replacement in a Loeys–Dietz Syndrome Type III Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Kato Kenichi , Nakamura Ken , Kato Kaho , Arai Shusuke , Hirooka Shuto , Kim Cholsu , Uchino Hideaki , Shimanuki Takao
Published: April 2023

Background
Intraoperative aortic dissection during cardiac surgery is a rare but critical complication. At present, no strategies have been developed to prevent it. Here, we report a case of intraoperative aortic dissection during aortic root replacement in a patient with Loeys–Dietz syndrome type III.
Case presentation
A 60-year-old man was admitted to the hospital for Stanford type B acute aortic dissection and given conservative treatment. The patient was found to have aortic root dilatation and severe aortic regurgitation. Therefore, elective Bentall procedure was performed. Postoperative computed tomography revealed new Stanford type A aortic dissection that may have developed during surgery. The patient was given conservative treatment and was successfully discharged to home at postoperative day 34. A genetic test revealed an unreported SMAD3 frameshift mutation (c.742_749dup, p. Gln252ThrfsTer7), and the patient was diagnosed with Loeys–Dietz syndrome type III.
Conclusion
In patients with connective tissue disorder, aortic manipulations may become the cause of critical complications. Avoiding the use of invasive techniques, such as cannulation and cross-clamping, and implementing treatment strategies such as open distal anastomosis can prevent these complications and may be useful treatment modalities.
A Comparative Study of Inter-Regional Intra-Industry Disparity
Authors: Pal Samidh
Published: April 2023

This paper investigates the inter-regional intra-industry disparity within selected Indian manufacturing industries and industrial states. The study uses three measures - the Output-Capital Ratio, the Capital-Labor Ratio, and the Output-Labor Ratio - to critically evaluate the level of disparity in average efficiency of labor and capital, as well as capital intensity. Additionally, the paper compares the rate of disparity of per capita income between six major industrial states. The study finds that underutilization of capacity is driven by an unequal distribution of high-skilled labor supply and upgraded technologies. To address these disparities, the paper suggests that policymakers campaign for labor training and technology promotion schemes throughout all regions of India. By doing so, the study argues, the country can reduce regional inequality and improve economic outcomes for all.
JEL Code: L6, L5.
Digestibility, Growth Performance, Body Measurement and Hormone of Sheep Fed with Different Levels of Brachiaria decumbens Diets
Authors: Mimi Syazwani Jaapar  , Eric Lim Teik Chung  , Nazri Nayan  , Kalai Vaani Muniandy  , Muhammad Hazziq Mohd Hamdan  , Shokri Jusoh  , Faez Firdaus Abdullah Jesse
Published: April 2023

Limited data are available regarding the effects of Brachiaria decumbens on sheep’s growth performance at different times. Therefore, this current study focused on sheep’s nutrient apparent digestibility, feed efficiency, body index, and growth hormone when they are fed with low and high levels of B. decumbens diets. A total of 30 six-month- old male Dorper cross sheep were divided randomly into three treatment groups with 10 sheep per treatment. Treatment 1 (control) sheep were fed with Pennisetum purpureum and pellets as the basal diet, whereas Treatment 2 and 3 sheep were fed with feed mixed with low (10%) and high (60%) levels of B. decumbens, respectively. The study was conducted in two phases consisting of short-term feeding (seven days) and long-term feeding (90 days). Throughout the experiment, daily fecal voided were collected in the morning for seven days continuous before the end of each feeding phases for the determination of nutrient apparent digestibility. The amount of feed offered and refusals plus body weight gain were recorded daily to determine the feed efficiency (FE). Besides, the body measurements of each sheep from every treatment were measured weekly and blood samples were collected for the analysis of growth hormone (GH) concentration. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the nutrient apparent digestibility, growth performance, body measurement, and GH concentration among treatment sheep throughout the study period. Treatment 3 sheep fed with 60% of B. decumbens diet revealed the lowest dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) digestibility during the long-term feeding. Likewise, Treatment 3 (T3) sheep had the lowest total bodyweight gain, average daily gain, total feed intake, and daily feed intake among treatment sheep. The heart girth index (HGI) of T3 sheep was also significantly lower during the short-term feeding. Moreover, the GH concentration of T3 sheep was significantly lower as compared to the control that decreases steadily throughout the study period. In conclusion, high levels of B. decumbens showed the most significant results out of all three treatments indicating the presence of saponins, which produce negative effects on the sheep’s overall performance.
Methodological Approaches to the Study of Distorted Information
Authors: Golovatskaya O. E.
Published: April 2023

The problem of information distortion worsened in recent years, but it also existed centuries ago. In fact, since its inception, information has been a valuable resource and tool to influence public opinion and, if necessary, represent information in a favourable light. The phenomenon of information distortion is not new and is closely related to the history of human development. However, with the development of forms and tools of communication and as the characteristics of the information environment change, the ways of distortion become more complicated. Besides the increase in number of types and forms of such distortions, the number and variety of approaches to its exploring increases, including the methods of its classification and criteria for differentiating, which fully meets the need to systematize the forms of information distortion in response to ongoing changes. This article attempts to critically analyse the methodological basis of the phenomenon of distorted information and to identify the main directions and methodological approaches to its study.
A novel method for monetary valuation of street trees: a case study in a Brazilian city
Authors: Tamara Ribeiro Botelho de Carvalho Maria  , Allan Rodrigo Nunho dos Reis  , Jennifer Viezzer  , Daniela Biondi
Published: April 2023

Street trees offer numerous ecosystem benefits when well managed by the municipal administration. However, quantifying these benefits is complex, which contributes to the negligence and undervaluation of afforestation by municipal managers and the population as a whole. Thus, the valorization of urban afforestation emerges as a strategic awareness tool, capable of translating the importance of each individual tree within the urban green infrastructure for citizens and municipal managers, in addition to assisting in the process of choosing the best guidelines and practices for urban forest management. When applied to street tree planting, these methods fail to consider the most important aspect of a tree in the urban environment: its canopy. Thus, this research aimed to propose a new method for the monetary valuation of street trees, focusing on the benefits of the canopy and applying this method in a case study. Tree species, condition, location, biometric value and implementation cost were considered. The case study results reached US$ 600 million, with individual trees between US$ 213.93 and US$ 483,615.19. The main limiting factors for the evaluation of the street tree planting were the location of the plating and the low height of the bifurcation. Keywords: ecosystem services; nature economy; tree canopy; tree economic value; urban forest.
A importância do aleitamento materno exclusivo na prevenção da obesidade infantil
Authors: Moreira Penedo Mariana , Martins Pinto Patrícia , Benedini Strini Portinari Beja Gabriela , Hybner Gonçalves Matheus , Anderi Stephanie , Alves Leite da Luz Oliveira Gabriela
Published: April 2023

A obesidade infantil vem crescendo nos ultimos anos, esse fator é preocupante pois existe o risco de se tornarem adultos obesos com condições mórbidas associadas que prejudicam a saúde do indivíduo. O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar se o aleitamento materno exclusivo previne a obesidade infantil e qual a relação com o tempo de amamentação. Foi realizada uma busca por trabalhos científicos nas plataformas Pubmed e Lilacs utilizaram os descritores “aleitamento materno exclusivo”, “obesidade infantil” e “sobrepeso infantil” tanto no português como no inglês, os quais foram conectados pelo descritor booleano “AND”. Sendo assim, um total de 20 artigos foram incluídos após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Após análise dos estudos foi observado que o aleitamento materno previne a obesidade infantil e o tempo de aleitamento materno foi divido em seis meses, um anos e o aleitamento materno misto. A prática do aleitamento materno é recomendada até os dois anos de vida ou mais. O aleitamento feito de forma incorreta colabora com a gênese da obesidade infantil. Um estudo afirmou que o aleitamento materno exclusivo até os seis meses associou-se com um menor índice de massa corporal e menor chance de obesidade nas crianças menores de três anos. A amamentação exclusiva até os seis meses é um fator protetor contra a obesidade infantil e por isso, medidas de proteção à saúde devem ser realizadas no pré-natal, com objetivo de enfatizar a importância e os benefícios do aleitamento materno para a mãe e para o bebê.
Drugs to Treat Neuroinflammation in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Wang Yao-Chin , Kung Woon-Man , Chung Yi-Hsiu , Kumar Sunil
Published: April 2023

Neuroinflammation is associated with disorders of the nervous system, and it
is induced in response to many factors, including pathogen infection, brain injury, toxic
substances, and autoimmune diseases. Astrocytes and microglia have critical roles in neuroinflammation.
Microglia are innate immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS),
which are activated in reaction to neuroinflammation-inducing factors. Astrocytes can
have pro- or anti-inflammatory responses, which depend on the type of stimuli presented
by the inflamed milieu. Microglia respond and propagate peripheral inflammatory signals
within the CNS that cause low-grade inflammation in the brain. The resulting alteration
in neuronal activities leads to physiological and behavioral impairment. Consequently,
activation, synthesis, and discharge of various pro-inflammatory cytokines and
growth factors occur. These events lead to many neurodegenerative conditions, such as
Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis discussed in this study.
After understanding neuroinflammation mechanisms and the involvement of neurotransmitters,
this study covers various drugs used to treat and manage these neurodegenerative
illnesses. The study can be helpful in discovering new drug molecules for treating neurodegenerative
disorders.
Microsponges as Drug Delivery System: Past, Present, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Biharee Avadh , Bhartiya Sudha , Yadav Arpita , Thareja Suresh , Jain Akhlesh Kumar
Published: April 2023

Microsponges are polymeric delivery devices composed of porous microspheres that range in size from 5 to 300 micrometers. These have been explored for biomedical applications such as targeted drug delivery, transdermal drug delivery, anticancer drug delivery, and bone substitutes. The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of recent developments and prospects for a microsponge-based drug delivery system. The current study analyzes how the Microsponge Delivery System (MDS) is made, how it works, and how it can be used for a wide range of therapeutic purposes. The therapeutic potential and patent information of microsponge-based formulations were systematically analyzed. The authors summarize various effective techniques for developing microsponges, such as liquid-liquid suspension polymerization, quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method, water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) emulsion solvent diffusion, oil-in-oil emulsion solvent diffusion, lyophilization method, porogen addition method, vibrating orifice aerosol generator method, electrohydrodynamic atomization method, and ultrasound-assisted microsponge. Microsponge may reduce the side effects and increase drug stability by positively altering drug release. Drugs that are both hydrophilic and hydrophobic can be loaded into a microsponge and delivered to a specific target. The microsponge delivery technology offers numerous advantages over conventional delivery systems. Microsponges, which are spherical sponge-like nanoparticles with porous surfaces, have the potential to increase the stability of medications. They also efficiently decrease the undesirable effects and alter drug release.
A Facile and Green Nitration of Easily-Hydrolyzed Aromatic Compounds
Based on Direct Filtration and H2SO4 Recycling
Authors: Li Runlai , Zhang Zhenming , Ji Jiangyu , Li He , Liu Chi , Li Shu-an
Published: April 2023

The conventional mixed acid nitration of aromatic hydrocarbons has been extensively applied
in the industry, but usually, it is not highly selective and may cause environmental concerns regarding
the disposal of large volumes of mixed acids. This paper proposes a new method of orientational
para-nitration of easily hydrolyzable aromatic compounds. Under the optimized reaction conditions,
the easily hydrolyzed aromatic compounds were nitrated in the H2SO4-HNO3-H3PO4 system to
yield paste-like products. And the product could be directly filtered out from the mixed acid, avoiding
a large amount of waste liquid caused by pouring the reaction mixture into ice water by the traditional
post-treatment method. The selectivity and yield of nitration by this method have been improved, and
the mother liquor could be reused, thereby reducing the cost and pollution.
Risk Factors Related to the Death of Admitted COVID-19 Patients: A Buffalo Study
Authors: Hanh Doan Le Minh , Hao Phan Thai , Oanh Do Thi Tuong , Tho Nguyen Van
Published: April 2023

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may result in a severe acute respiratory syndrome that leads to a worldwide pandemic. Despite the increasing understanding of COVID-19 disease, the mortality rate of hospitalized COVID-19 patients remains high.

Objective:

To investigate the risk factors related to the mortality of admitted COVID-19 patients during the peak of the epidemic from August 2021 to October 2021 in Vietnam.

Methods:

This is a prospective cohort study performed at the Hospital for Rehabilitation–Professional diseases. The baseline and demographic data, medical history, clinical examination, the laboratory results were recorded for patients admitted to the hospital with confirmed COVID-19. A radiologist and a pulmonologist will read the chest radiographs on admission and calculate the Brixia scores to classify the severity of lung abnormalities. Patients were followed up until beingrecovered or their death. Comparison of clinical and subclinical characteristics between recovery and death groups to find out risk factors related to the death of COVID-19 patients

Results:

Among 104 admitted COVID-19 patients, men accounted for 42.3%, average age of 61.7 ± 13.7. The most common symptoms were fever 76.9%, breathlessness 74%, and fatigue 53.8%. The majority (84.6%) of the study population had at least one co-morbidity, including hypertension (53.8%), diabetes (25.9%), gastritis (19.2%), ischemic heart disease (15.4) %), stroke (9.6%) and osteoarthritis (9.6%). The rate of mild and moderate COVID-19 is 13.4%, severe 32.7%, and critical 40.4%. There are 88 inpatients (84.6%) who needed respiratory support. The median hospital stay was 13 days (IQR 10-17.75 days). The rate of intubated patients with mechanical ventilation was 31.7%. The overall mortality rate was 29.8%. Risk factors related to death included Brixia scores > 9, Urea > 7 mmol/L, Ferrtin > 578 ng/ml, Failure to get vaccinated, Age > 60 years, and Low Oxygen SpO2 < 87% (BUFFALO).

Conclusion:

The main result of the study is the independent risk factors related to the death of admitted COVID-19 patients including Brixia scores > 9, Urea > 7 mmol/L, Ferrtin > 578 ng/ml, Failure to get vaccinated, Age > 60 years, and Low Oxygen SpO2 < 87% ((BUFFALO) which suggests that these COVID-19 patients should be closely followed up.
СУЧАСНА ГІПОЛІПІДЕМІЧНА ТЕРАПІЯ (ОГЛЯД ЛІТЕРАТУРИ)
Authors: Ю.В. Боцюрко
Published: April 2023

Статини є високоефективними препаратами профілактики та ліку- вання атеросклеротичних серцево-судинних захворювань. При тривалому застосуванні вони дозволяють знизити серцево-судинний ризик, зменшуючи вміст холестерину ліпопротеїнів низької щільності крові (ХС ЛПНЩ). Однак навіть при поєднанні високодозового режиму статинотерапії з прийомом езетімібу далеко не завжди вдається досягнути цільових показників ХС ЛПНЩ згідно сучасних рекомендацій. Таким чином, існує незадоволена клінічна потреба в нових ліпідзнижуючих препаратах, які можуть знижувати рівень холестерину ліпопротеїдів низької щільності та інші атерогенні ліпопротеїни. Протягом останнього десятиліття було розроблено низку нових препаратів для лікування дисліпідемії, що відображено в даному огляді.

Ключові слова: ХС ЛПНЩ, статини, інклісіран, інгібітори PCSK9,

бемпедоєва кислота.
Van bezorgde zussen tot waardevolle buddy’s. Het informele informatiecircuit tijdens de aidsepidemie in Vlaanderen en Brussel
Authors: Van Laer Ellen
Published: April 2023

Niet alleen officiële en medische netwerken bleken belangrijk in de circulatie van informatie tijdens de aidsepidemie. De historische getuigen waarmee Ellen Van Laer in het kader van haar scriptie in gesprek ging benadrukten ook het belang van meer informele netwerken zoals familie, vrienden en lotgenoten. Op die netwerken, hun geschiedenis, de ervaringen ermee en herinneringen eraan gaat dit artikel dieper in.