bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of natural and man-made factors of landslide development in the Carpathian region using GIS
Authors: Shtohryn L. V , Kasiynchuk D. V
Published: October 2024

Purpose. Determination of the dependencies of spatial relationships between landslides in the Carpathian region of Ukraine and the factors causing them, taking into account the differences in geomorphological, geological, climatic conditions and natural and geographical zoning according to the landscape principle. Methodology. The morphometric analysis of the territory was carried out using QGIS tools to determine the slope angles and exposure; linear characteristics were calculated: distances to the river, road, and houses. Based on the image interpretation data, we calculated the total annual rainfall and average annual air temperature. The impact of the factors considered on landslide formation was assessed using multivariate statistical analysis: factor analysis and linear multiple regression. Findings. Studies on the impact of natural and topographical conditions and anthropogenic activity on the development of landslide processes have been conducted. Orographic and climatic factors play the most important role. Construction of business facilities results in a decrease in the slope stability in 14–19 % of cases. The analysed independed factors showed good consistency between the distribution of existing landslides and the parameters under consideration: the share of the total variance of the factors under consideration is 71–76 %, the coefficient of determination of the regression model is 0.7. Based on the results of geoinformation and statistical analyses, it is proved that differences in geomorphological conditions and human activity (construction of roads, economic facilities) are dominant in the formation of landslides in different landscape zones. Originality. It is established that there is a dynamic coherence between the spatial change in natural conditions and human settlement and activity, which interact with each other to create prerequisites for the development of landslides. Practical value. This study is important from the point of view of understanding and mitigating the cause-and-effect relationship of landslide development for certain territories, and the results obtained can be useful in developing land use planning strategies, infrastructure development, and planning new construction works.
Establishing a plastic waste map using remote sensing data in the coastal area of Thanh Hoa province (Vietnam)
Authors: Do Thao Phuong Thi , Tran Hanh Hong , Do Anh Ngọc , Ngo Ngan Khanh Tran
Published: October 2024

Plastic pollution, particularly in oceans, is a growing environmental threat. Monitoring this pollution is challenging due to the shortage of data and tools. Remote sensing offers a promising solution by using various types of satellite and aerial images to detect and track plastic waste movement. Purpose. The study aims to establish a plastic waste map using remote sensing technology, focusing on the case study of the coastal area of Thanh Hoa province, Vietnam. Methodology. The study involves several steps, including the collection of plastic waste data (samples in the case study and indices from remote sensing images) as well as topographic and base map collection, statistics of plastic samples, grid design, calculation, interpolation, accuracy assessment, and mapping. Field surveys involved taking pictures of plastic debris along designated routes and a grid system was used to classify and calculate waste samples. Satellite images, especially Sentinel-2 MSI optical satellite imagery, are utilized to identify water areas of high plastic concentration. Findings. A map of plastic wastes in coastal areas of Thanh Hoa was created, with indices like NDWI (Normalized Difference Water Index) and FDI (Floating Debris Index) helping identify potential plastic waste signals. The resulting map reveals high concentrations of plastic waste in sea areas near the major river mouths of the Ma River basin and tourist areas, which aligns with areas of high human activity. Originality. This is the first study of plastic waste in the coastal area using remote sensing data in Thanh Hoa province, Vietnam. Practical value. This study can contribute to the effective management of marine plastic waste in Thanh Hoa while opening up opportunities for applying the method to create marine plastic waste maps throughout Vietnam and foster long-term monitoring and management.
Pipe production cost management model based on graph theory
Authors: Toporkova O. A , Lozovska L. I , Savchuk L. M , Monia A. H , Bandorina L. M
Published: October 2024

The pipe production process is a complex dynamical system with a significant number of production operations and interconnected cost localization centres. Purpose. To develop a mathematical model of the process of handling analytical information of a pipe enterprise using graph theory for the needs of cost management at each production stage. Methodology. Technological flow charts of the production job, where the list of mandatory activities and routing of the operating process are indicated, were used to organize cost accounting by operational centres of their localization with the help of computer modelling elements, namely the graph theory. The work used a complex of research methods, including analysis and scientific synthesis of scientific and technical information; theoretical studies; methods of mathematical and computer modelling, engineering developments. Findings. The cost accounting process is represented by a directed hypergraph. Each production operation is associated with a graph vertex. Each vertex is assigned to a series of interrelated marks: type of technological operation; weight factor; the value of direct costs for the operation; the value of indirect costs for the operation; the expense factor. The initial state of the hypergraph is specified by means of its initial marking, which corresponds to the set cipher of the batch of pipes and its weight. Further execution of the marked hypergraph is performed by running the allowed vertices. Marking of the graph ends if all the information from the technological flow charts of pipe products has been used. Originality. A model of cost management by operational centres is proposed which will allow dividing the prime cost of pipes which differ according to the production technology. It is recommended to rank pipe products within each technologically similar group for an economically feasible allocation of costs between batches of pipes. The proposed process model of processing analytical information of the pipe enterprise using graph theory will allow providing data governance as for the prime cost of each individual batch of pipe products, will contribute to the improvement in the order generation procedure taking into account the acquired information, and will allow making the appropriate adjustments when making management decisions. Practical value. Calculation of expenses for production operations allows one to identify the most cost-intensive of them. Relying on the results of the calculation, the enterprise management has the opportunity to manage costs at any stage of the production process. Moreover, the model allows determining the amount of consumed metal for each production operation, which is relevant for pipe enterprises. It is appropriate to focus further scientific developments in this direction on the possibility of managing non-manufacturing cost with the help of mathematical models in economics to optimize the supply and sales activities of the enterprise.
Assessment of competitive advantages of IT system integrator companies taking industry factors into account
Authors: Baryngolts S , Kalina I
Published: October 2024

Purpose. To evaluate competitive advantages of IT system integrators in Ukraine. To investigate the influence of industry factors on the formation of competitive advantages using cases of the mining and fuel & energy industries. Methodology. The empirical basis of the study was presented by performance indicators of the leading system integrator companies of Ukraine. The methodological basis of the research was the scoring method using weight coefficients and the graphic method of creating a radial diagram of competitive advantages. During the research, the following methods were used: analysis and synthesis (to study the components of competitive advantages and to form integral indicators), induction and deduction (to form market trends and to identify enterprise strategies), classification (to form indicators that determine competitive advantages). Findings. In the process of research, a model of competitive advantages for system integrator companies was formed. A methodology was developed and an assessment of competitive advantages of the leading system integrators of IT industry of Ukraine was carried out. A radial diagram of competitive advantages was created. It allows performing a comparative analysis of the factors of company competitive advantages with the aim to form a development strategy to improve the competitive position of the company in the market. Features of influence of the industry factors on the formation of competitive advantages of system integrators were considered and this influence was evaluated using cases of the mining and fuel & energy industries. Originality. A model and methodology for assessing competitive advantages for system integrator companies in IT industry were proposed; the main factors of competitive advantages for system integrators have been identified. The necessity of taking industry factors into account when assessing the competitive advantages of these enterprises has been proposed and confirmed by the research results. Practical value. The applied value of the research lies in the possibility of applying the developed model and methodology to assess the competitive advantages of system integrators. The results of such an assessment can be used by system integrators to develop a competitive strategy and improve their competitive positions in the market. Customers (including enterprises in the mining and fuel & energy industries) can use evaluation elements when conducting procurement (tender) procedures for selection of contractors for the implementation of system integration projects. Also, the results of the study can be used for the analysis of the system integration market.
Uso y abuso de las herramientas digitales en educación patrimonial
Authors: Ibáñez-Etxeberría Álex , Luna Ursula
Published: October 2024

Introducción al Debate n.º 30 de revista PH 114 (febrero 2025) sobre "Uso y abuso de las herramientas digitales en educación patrimonial".
How Do Institutional Investors Perceive Mandatory ESG Disclosure: Evidence From SEC’s Mandatory Climate Change Disclosure Proposal
Authors: Kim Martin M.
Published: October 2024

This study examines how institutional investors perceive the SEC’s mandatory climate change disclosure proposal, announced on March 21, 2022. The findings show that investors of US public firms with higher institutional ownership react less negatively to the proposal despite overall negative market reactions. Additional tests show that the main results hold even if an endogeneity concern and greenhouse gas contributors’ effect were tested with the cross-sectional regression models. This research sheds light on the lack of consensus on the impact of institutional investors on ESG disclosure for US public firms, providing evidence that institutional investors contribute to the long-term sustainability and value creation of portfolio firms.
Salmonella Typhi in Urine Associated with Bilateral Nephrocalcinosis: A Rare Case Report
Authors: A Hussain , S Oommen , S Surapaneni
Published: October 2024

This case report discusses a rare occurrence of Salmonella Typhi isolated from the urine of a patient with bilateral nephrocalcinosis. Salmonella Typhi is a known pathogen causing typhoid fever primarily associated with gastrointestinal manifestations. However, its presence in the urine is a rare phenomenon, especially in conjunction with bilateral nephrocalcinosis.
A Rare Case of Radial Nerve Injury at the Bifurcation Managed by Inter-Positional Nerve Graft
Authors: Oommen Oommen V
Published: October 2024

Penetrating injuries to the radial nerve at the bifurcation are rare injuries. Early diagnosis and nerve repair or reconstruction can significantly improve outcome. We present a case of radial nerve injury at the bifurcation resulting from a penetrating injury, one week post injury and managed using an interposition nerve graft.
Explosive onset of SLE in white male in capital of Cherokee Nation
Authors: Alexander Caleb S , Kaushik Prashant
Published: October 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a major autoimmune rheumatologic condition that can cause severe life threatening complications. While it afflicts all ages, sexes, races and ethnicities, it overwhelmingly affects more females and non-white males. Due to these demographics, it is important to highlight this case of an explosive onset of SLE in a young, white male from a unique location in the USA. A 19-year old, white male first had symptoms following a change to carnivore diet, increase in exercise and prolonged sun exposure. Over the first few months, a rash that had started on his face and was originally thought to be a sunburn spread across the majority of his body. He then developed ascending joint pains and a loss of appetite. Over the course of about 6 months, he had gone from a relatively healthy, but overweight, teenager to requiring hospitalization for severe body pains and rash, photophobia, hyperacusis, lack of an appetite and nearly 30-percent loss of body weight loss. Since disease identification and receiving treatment, the symptoms have begun improving and he is resuming normal daily activities.
An Uncommon Cause of Chest Pain from Tarlov Cysts
Authors: Tan Li Xian , Ekladious Adel
Published: October 2024

Tarlov cysts are often regarded as an incidental finding found on imaging as most patients are asymptomatic. However, Tarlov cysts can be symptomatic or increase in size over time to cause symptoms. We present a case of an uncommon cause of chest pain in a patient with Marfan syndrome who underwent extensive investigations before being diagnosed with radicular chest pain from Tarlov cysts at the thoracic level. Decompression of Tarlov cysts resulted in resolution of his chronic devastating chest pain.
Double Cell-Like Objects Created from Synthetic DNA (Human Placenta) Crown Cells Using Monolaurin
Authors: Inooka Shoshi
Published: October 2024

Synthetic DNA crown cells (artificial cells) can be prepared in vitro using sphingosine (Sph)-DNA-adenosine-monolaurin compounds. These DNA crown cells can proliferate within egg whites in vivo. Synthetic DNA (E. coli) crown cells formed assemblies and cells proliferate after the addition of monolaurin and egg white and could be cultured on agar plates. In this study, it was examined whether such phenomena were observed in synthetic DNA (Human placenta) crown cells. In synthetic DNA (Human placenta) crown cells using monolaurin, several kinds of objects that may differ from original cells, were observed on the agar plates. Here, the microscopic characteristics of double cell-like objects are described.
Ultrasound Assessment of Changes on the Lungs during Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Newborns with Low Body Weight
Authors: R Ya Abdullaiev , AP Sorochan , IA Voronzhev , NS Lysenko , RR Abdullaiev
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a common pathology of premature newborns and one of the most common causes of hospitalization in intensive care units, as well as mortality among them. Aims of Study: To study the possibilities of ultrasound imaging for respiratory distress syndrome of varying severity in premature newborns. Patients and Methods: Lung Ultrasound was performed in 72 premature infants in whom an X-ray diagnosis of RDS was established. Results: In accordance with the radiological data of RDS I degree diagnosed in 13 (18,1±4,5%) patients, RDS II degree – in 31 (43,0±5,8%), RDS III degree – in 19 (26,4±5,2%) and RDS IV degree – in 9 (12,5±3,9%) premature infants. The results of lung ultrasound and chest x-ray in the diagnosis of stage I and IV RDS coincided in all cases. Moreover, the correlation coefficient between them had a high degree (0.924 and 0.950, respectively). Ultrasound revealed stage II RDS in 21 out of 31 preterm infants diagnosed by radiography. By ultrasound of the lungs, stage III RDS was diagnosed in 4 more premature infants than by X-ray (23 and 19). Conclusions: 1. The integrated use of lung ultrasound and chest X-ray significantly improves the quality of diagnosis and monitoring of lung lesions in premature infants with RDS with a significant reduction in radiation exposure to the patient. 2. Ultrasound is particularly useful for monitoring established radiographic lung pathology (eg, RDS, pneumonia) to reduce radiation exposure.
Novel Strategies in the Laparoscopic Management of Left Mid Ureteric Recurrent Stricture: Use of Flexible Ureteroscopy on Table
Authors: A Hussain , A Srivastava , S Shimar
Published: October 2024

Recurrent ureteric strictures pose significant challenges in urological practice, necessitating innovative surgical strategies for successful resolution. This case report details the use of on-table flexible ureteroscopy during laparoscopic management of a left mid-ureteric recurrent stricture. A 41-year-old male patient was successfully managed using a combined laparoscopic and flexible ureteroscopic approach, presenting a novel technique that enhances surgical precision and patient outcomes.
Healthcare Reforms Within and Without
Authors: Ungar-Sargon Julian
Published: October 2024

Healthcare reform has been a significant and ongoing issue in the United States, with various initiatives and policies implemented over the years to improve access, quality, and affordability of healthcare. We review recent literature as to attempts to reform a healthcare system in the US that is driven by profit greed and fraud. Examples of such attempts are critiqued for their working within a system that is structurally broken.
Cuidado de enfermagem a pessoa idosa com pico hipertensivo na emergência
Authors: Pereira Marcones Souza , Freitas André Santos , Reis Luana Araújo dos
Published: October 2024

Introdução: O envelhecimento populacional e o aumento da prevalência de hipertensão arterial sistêmica entre idosos destacam a importância de intervenções rápidas e adequadas para prevenir complicações graves. Objetivo: O estudo objetiva sintetizar evidências sobre intervenções de enfermagem, monitorização e impacto das estratégias de cuidado, com foco em urgências e emergências hipertensivas. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão de literatura de estudos publicados entre 2014 e 2023 nas bases de dados PubMed, LILACS e SciELO, foram analisados artigos que abordam o manejo de crises hipertensivas em idosos. A seleção de artigos seguiu critérios de inclusão e exclusão, organizando os dados conforme as categorias temáticas. Resultados: Os resultados mostram que as intervenções de enfermagem, como a administração de medicamentos e a monitorização contínua, são cruciais para estabilizar a pressão arterial e evitar danos aos órgãos. A adesão a protocolos estruturados melhora os desfechos clínicos, reduz complicações e hospitalizações. Além disso, a educação do paciente e a formação contínua dos profissionais de saúde são fundamentais. Considerações finais: Conclui-se que a implementação de cuidados baseados em evidências e protocolos claros é essencial para o manejo eficaz de crises hipertensivas, com a necessidade de mais estudos para validar e aprimorar as intervenções.
Clusters de alto risco dos casos por Hanseníase na região Nordeste do Brasil: Modelagem espaço-temporal retrospectiva e prospectiva
Authors: Clemente Geise Silva , Almeida Delma Holanda de
Published: October 2024

Hanseníase, ou doença de Hansen, é uma doença granulosa crônica provocada pela bactéria Mycobacterium leprae, que acomete principalmente o sistema nervoso periférico, a pele e o sistema reticuloendotelial. Acometendo pessoas que vivem em comunidades pobres em países tropicais subdesenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento, sendo considerada uma doença tropical negligenciada. Sendo que Brasil foi responsável pelo segundo maior número de casos, ficando atrás apenas da Índia, e através da compreensão dos padrões epidemiológicos e espaciais da hanseníase e sua relação com fatores socioeconômicos é um dos requisitos para o controle efetivo desta doença. Por este motivo este trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar os padrões espaciais e espaço-temporais dos casos de hanseníase na região Nordeste do Brasil, entre os anos de 2001 a 2020. Através um estudo ecológico, baseado em técnicas de análise espacial utilizando dados secundários de casos de Hanseníase notificados no estado do Nordeste. Sendo que em dezenove anos de 2001 a 2020, a região Nordeste do país registrou 29.817 novos casos da doença. Embora a tendência de novos casos de hanseníase tenha apresentado decrescente, muitos municípios ainda são classificados como hiperendêmicos. Diante desses resultados recomendamos que nas áreas consideradas hiperendêmicas sejam implementadas educação em saúde, com o objetivo de conscientizar a população da importância do tratamento nas fazes iniciais da doença, melhorando assim o diagnóstico e o tratamento precoce da doença, podendo assim atingir o controle da doença.
Caracterização química, compostos bioativos, atividade antioxidante e comportamento reológico de méis de abelhas sem ferrão coletados no estado da Bahia
Authors: Andrade Beatriz Becevelli , Guimarães Catarina Silva , Silva Luiz Eloi da , Viana Eduardo Bruno Macêdo , Souza Anderson Santos , Zanuto Marcia Elena , Souza Cassiara Camelo Eloi de
Published: October 2024

O presente estudo foi desenvolvido objetivando avaliar e determinar as características físico-químicas, o teor de compostos bioativos, a atividade antioxidante e o comportamento reológico de amostras de méis de abelhas sem ferrão, coletadas no Estado da Bahia, sendo três das amostras da espécie Melipona quadrifasciata (Mandaçaia), uma Tetragonisca angustula (Jataí) e uma da Melipona scutellaris (Uruçu nordestina). Obteve como resultados das análises físico-químicas, uma variação de 3,08 a 4,36 para pH, 17,52 a 132,22 meq.kg-¹ para acidez, 64,08 a 80,42% para sólidos solúveis totais, 53,97 a 66,69% para açúcares redutores, 1,41 a 13,82% para sacarose aparente, 17,80 a 34,13% de umidade, 0,31 a 3,16% para cinzas, bem como valores de 12,05 a 26,52 mg.kg-¹ para hidroximetilfurfural entre as cinco amostras de méis. Quanto aos compostos bioativos, foram encontrados teores de 9,90 a 24,20 mg EAG.100g-¹ para compostos fenólicos totais, 5,80 a 14,20 mg.100g-¹ para clorofila total, 0,03 a 0,20 mg.100g-¹ para antocianinas totais, 0,11 a 0,23 mg.100g-¹ para flavonoides amarelos e 3,64 a 6,75 mg.100g-¹ para vitamina C. Os méis apresentaram capacidade antioxidante de 17,50 a 62,64%. Verificou-se na análise reológica, um comportamento de fluido newtoniano com viscosidade constante para todas as amostras estudadas. Portanto, faz necessário mais pesquisas que investiguem as propriedades dos méis das abelhas sem ferrão em diferentes biomas e uma legislação nacional que aborde os parâmetros de qualidade dos méis de meliponíneos respeitando as suas particularidades, uma vez que os parâmetros estabelecidos por órgãos e instituições nacionais se referem somente aos méis de Apis mellifera.
Time-series models and biotelemetry identify behavioral dynamics within a spawning aggregation of a large marine predator
Authors: Binder BM , TinHan T , Harborne AR , Luongo SM , Kochan D , Spencer E , Butkowski D , Boswell KM , Leos-Barajas V , Gallegos-Herrada M , Li X , Liu X , Liu Y , Yang Y , Yu V , Papastamatiou YP
Published: October 2024

Fish spawning aggregations (FSAs) may persist for months and include behaviors such as spawning and foraging. Acoustic telemetry has been used to measure the movements of fishes to and from FSAs, but behaviors within the aggregation are harder to quantify. We used multi-sensor acoustic telemetry (depth, acceleration) combined with continuous wavelet transformation analysis and hidden Markov models to identify behaviors within a spawning aggregation of the goliath grouper Epinephelus itajara, a vulnerable marine predator. Tagged fish (n = 20) exhibited periods (over 2 spawning seasons, August-October) where multiple individuals displayed variability in depth just after the new moon. These events may represent spawning, and there was always one event each season that included a greater number of individuals and more variability in depth. Grouper were more active during the new moon, in shallow water (<15 m), and at night. We also identified several events with behaviors more consistent with benthic foraging where grouper were highly active while remaining at constant depth. As such, intensive foraging by multiple individuals may occur during more sporadic time periods. Grouper remained close to the seafloor as currents exceeded 0.4 m s-1 but moved up into the water column during cold-water incursions (<24°C). Abiotic conditions may limit vertical habitat use and could potentially influence spawning and foraging behavior. Multi-sensor telemetry combined with time-series analysis can be used to remotely measure individual behavior within spawning aggregations. The timing of these behaviors within the FSA may also have implications for the ecological role groupers play as predators and, potentially, in bottom-up processes.
The Accidental Giselle: Paris 1924
Authors: Belenky Sergey , Cody Sebastian
Published: October 2024

The ballet Giselle owes its present international fame to a production mounted in Paris exactly one hundred years ago by Nikolai Sergeyev and starring Olga Spessivtseva. The circumstances behind this influential production have long been misunderstood but new documents and a re-examination of the history now lead to the discovery of a revealingly different sequence of events.
Effectiveness of high-intensity laser therapy on pain in tendinopathy
Authors: BERČIČ TJAŠA , BRACIC MIT
Published: October 2024

Introduction: High-intensity laser therapies (HILT) have gained significant attention in therapeutic pain treat-ment. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the effectiveness of HILT therapies in the management of different types of tendinopathy-related pain, and the long-term benefits associated with treatment process.Methodology: A systematic literature review of prospective randomized controlled trials from electronic data-bases: Google Scholar, Pub Med, Embase, Science Direct, and ProQuest, using relevant key words, was per-formed. Randomized trials that included HILT, patients with tendinopathy, pain management, and at least one single clinically pertinent attribute were selected. Standard PRISMA protocols were followed when completing the assessment.Results: The physical, demographic, and theoretical insights from various studies suggest that HILT is a highly promising approach for managing pain in patients with tendinopathy. The most common body parts for treating tendinopathy using this method were the shoulder, elbow, ankle, and knee. Various attributes and parameters, such as Hand function evaluated by Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (QDASH) and Hand-grip Strength; pain assessed by the visual analogue score (VAS) during rest or activity, 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) for physical and mental health, and the shoulder pain and Disability Index (SPADI) for shoulder and elbow assessment, were frequently significant across studies.Conclusion: HILT could be recommended as a treatment of choice for reducing pain and improving function in patients with tendinopathy, with potential benefits when combined with other physical therapy treatments. Further studies are needed to clarify optimal treatment protocols and long- term outcomes.
Edukasi Bahaya Pergaulan Bebas
Authors: Liliskarlina Liliskarlina , Ayumi Mas , Korlina Korlina
Published: October 2024

Pergaulan bebas merupakan fenomena sosial yang kerap menjadi perhatian khusus di berbagai kalangan, terutama di kalangan remaja. Pergaulan bebas dapat didefinisikan sebagai interaksi sosial yang melampaui batas-batas norma dan nilai moral yang berlaku dalam masyarakat. Fenomena ini dapat membawa dampak negatif, seperti penyalahgunaan narkoba, kehamilan di luar nikah, penularan penyakit menular seksual, dan degradasi moral. Kegiatan ini bertujuan memberikan edukasi dan pemahaman bagi remaja terkait pergaulan bebas dan bahaya nya. Kegiatan ini dilakukan di SMP 40 Makassar. Metode yang digunakan berupaya penyuluhan langsung kepada siswa siswi SMP 40 Makassar. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa kurangnya pengawasan dari orang tua, pengaruh teman sebaya, serta akses yang mudah terhadap media sosial dan internet menjadi faktor dominan penyebab pergaulan bebas. Oleh karena itu, diperlukan sinergi antara keluarga, institusi pendidikan, dan pemerintah dalam upaya pencegahan dan penanggulangan pergaulan bebas di kalangan remaja.
Chemokine profile in the serum of patients with leptospirosis
Authors: Mariano Iago H. de Miranda , Blanco Roberta M. , de Souza Camila Eulalio , de Freitas Geovanna Silva , Ho Paulo Lee , Martins Elizabeth A. L. , Romero Eliete C. , da Silva Josefa B.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Leptospirosis is a global zoonosis that affects more than one million people per year, with a lethality rate of approximately 15%. Chemokines are crucial in the immune response against Leptospira, recruiting leukocytes to the site of infection and regulating immune activity. In previous studies, we have shown that CCL2, CXCL5, and CCL8 are involved in the leptospirosis process, although the mechanisms are not understood.

Methods

In this study, we present the frequency of Leptospira serovars in human samples. We then evaluated the profile of various chemokines in sera from patients diagnosed with leptospirosis, assessing the possible correlation between them. Moreover, we evaluated the changes in the chemokine profile on different days after the first symptoms. The frequency of the Leptospira serovars in human samples is presented.

Results and discussion

The main findings were that CCL5, CXCL5, and CXCL9 are highly expressed during leptospirosis, indicating a special role of these molecules in the immunity and pathogenesis of the disease. The correlation analysis of detected chemokines CXCL11, CXCL9, CCL3, and CCL2 helps to clarify the role of each cytokine in leptospirosis. The possible use of CCL5 as a biomarker for complementary diagnosis of the disease is suggested.
Investigating the mechanisms of resveratrol in the treatment of gouty arthritis through the integration of network pharmacology and metabolics
Authors: Xu Xiaomin , Yu Donghua , Wang Yu , Jiang Xin , Lu Fang , Liu Shumin
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study integrates network pharmacology and metabolomics techniques to explore the potential regulatory mechanisms of Res on gouty arthritis (GA).

Methods

Network pharmacology was used to predict the mechanism of Res in regulating GA, and methods such as HE staining, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, Real-time PCR, Western blot, and molecular docking were used to verify the role of NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT inflammatory signaling pathways in the MSU-induced GA rat model. In addition, non-targeted metabolomics techniques were combined to further investigate the mechanism of Res in treating GA.

Results

The results of network pharmacology showed that Res may exert its therapeutic effects through the NF-κB signaling pathway. Animal experiments demonstrated that in the MSU-induced GA rat model, pathological damage, serum biochemical indicators, and levels of inflammatory factors were significantly increased, and the NF-κB signaling pathway was activated. The intervention of Res significantly reduced pathological damage, serum biochemical indicators, levels of inflammatory factors, and the activation of NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT signaling pathways in the model rats. Metabolomics results showed that Res could improve the metabolic trajectory deviations in serum and joint fluid of GA model rats. Through related metabolic pathway analysis, the most affected metabolic pathways were found to be Sphingolipid metabolism, Glycerophospholipid metabolism, Phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, Pantothenate and CoA, Citrate cycle (TCA cycle), and Arachidonic acid metabolism.

Conclusion

Resveratrol can regulate the biosynthetic pathways of arachidonic acid, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, pantothenic acid and CoA biosynthesis pathways, TCA cycle, and other metabolic pathways, thereby regulating the NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT3 signaling pathways, and inhibiting the acute inflammatory response during GA attacks, showing characteristics of multi-pathway and multi-target action.
Excess mortality associated with chikungunya epidemic in Southeast Brazil, 2023
Authors: Ribas Freitas André Ricardo , Lima Neto Antonio Silva , Rodrigues Rosana , Alves de Oliveira Erneson , Andrade José S. , Cavalcanti Luciano P. G.
Published: October 2024

The chikungunya virus (CHIKV) was first detected in Brazil in 2014 and has since caused major epidemics. In 2023, a major chikungunya epidemic occurred in Minas Gerais, one of the most populous states in the country. We analyzed the North and Northeast Health Macroregions of Minas Gerais, with 2.5 million inhabitants. The study used epidemiological data from the Ministry of Health’s laboratory surveillance, disease notification and mortality systems. A robust Poisson regression model was constructed to estimate expected monthly mortality. Excess deaths were calculated by comparing observed deaths with model estimates during the epidemic period. During the epidemic, there were 890 excess deaths attributed to chikungunya, translating into a mortality rate of 35.1/100,000 inhabitants. The excess mortality rate was significantly 60 times higher than the deaths reported by surveillance, with only 15 confirmed deaths. The correlation between excess deaths and laboratory-confirmed chikungunya cases was strong, while the correlation with dengue and COVID-19 was not statistically significant. The results highlighted the serious underestimation of chikungunya mortality by epidemiological surveillance. During the same year, only 420 chikungunya deaths were reported by all PAHO member countries. Routine epidemiological surveillance systems cannot capture the full impact of this disease. Excess mortality is a key measure for understanding the impact of epidemics, as demonstrated by COVID-19 and influenza pandemics. The study highlights the need for complementary tools to traditional surveillance to better assess impacts on morbidity and mortality and support priority setting in public health interventions.
Development of a core predictor set of weaning in critically ill patients: a Delphi-based study protocol
Authors: Wang Danqiong , He Linya , Chen Yan , Pan Keqi , Wu Meng , Zhou Meng , Zhang Weiwen , Mei Zubing , Zhang Guozheng
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Prolonged mechanical ventilation in intensive care units (ICUs) leads to increased morbidity, higher mortality rates, and elevated healthcare costs. Predicting successful weaning from mechanical ventilation with accuracy is essential for optimizing resource use and improving patient outcomes. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework offers a holistic perspective on health conditions and can be adapted to identify key predictors of weaning readiness. This study aims to develop a Delphi-based core predictor set for weaning in critically ill patients, utilizing the ICF model.

Methods and analysis

The core predictor set development comprises three steps: (1) Literature review and expert consultation to gather weaning predictors, (2) Predictor alignment with ICF categories per established rules, and (3) Three-round Delphi survey with a multidisciplinary team. A systematic review across major databases will be conducted to identify predictors related to weaning predictors in critically ill adults from cohort studies, trials, and reviews. Predictors will then be categorized within ICF domains. A multidisciplinary expert panel will evaluate the relevance of each predictor using a 9-point Likert scale to achieve consensus.

Discussion

This study will contribute to the development of a standardized, evidence-based predictor set for weaning readiness in critically ill patients. Using the ICF framework, this study aims to encompass the complex factors that influence weaning, thereby enabling personalized care plans and improving weaning outcomes. The Delphi methodology guarantees a thorough, iterative process for building consensus by integrating diverse clinical perspectives.

Conclusion

The proposed Delphi-based study protocol aims to establish a core set of predictors for weaning in the ICU setting, guided by the ICF model. Successful implementation of this predictor set could enhance decision-making around weaning trials, reduce unnecessary ventilation days, and ultimately improve patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. Future validation and implementation studies will be essential to confirm the utility and generalizability of this predictor set in clinical practice.
Bibliometric and visualization analysis in the field of epigenetics and glioma (2009–2024)
Authors: Zeng Yijun , Tao Ge , Zeng Yong , He Jihong , Cao Hui , Zhang Lushun
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Glioma represents the most prevalent primary malignant tumor in the central nervous system, a deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms driving glioma is imperative for guiding future treatment strategies. Emerging evidence has implicated a close relationship between glioma development and epigenetic regulation. However, there remains a significant lack of comprehensive summaries in this domain. This study aims to analyze epigenetic publications pertaining to gliomas from 2009 to 2024 using bibliometric methods, consolidate the extant research, and delineate future prospects for investigation in this critical area.

Methods

For the purpose of this study, publications spanning the years 2009 to 2024 were extracted from the esteemed Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Utilizing advanced visualization tools such as CiteSpace and VOSviewer, comprehensive data pertaining to various aspects including countries, authors, author co-citations, countries/regions, institutions, journals, cited literature, and keywords were systematically visualized and analyzed.

Results

A thorough analysis was conducted on a comprehensive dataset consisting of 858 publications, which unveiled a discernible trend of steady annual growth in research output within this specific field. The nations of the United States, China, and Germany emerged as the foremost contributors to this research domain. It is noteworthy that von Deimling A and the Helmholtz Association were distinguished as prominent authors and institutions, respectively, in this corpus of literature. A rigorous keyword search and subsequent co-occurrence analysis were executed, ultimately leading to the identification of seven distinct clusters: “epigenetic regulation”, “DNA repair”, “DNA methylation”, “brain tumors”, “diffuse midline glioma (DMG)”, “U-87 MG” and “epigenomics”. Furthermore, an intricate cluster analysis revealed that the primary foci of research within this field were centered around the exploration of glioma pathogenesis and the development of corresponding treatment strategies.

Conclusion

This article underscores the prevailing trends and hotspots in glioma epigenetics, offering invaluable insights that can guide future research endeavors. The investigation of epigenetic mechanisms primarily centers on DNA modification, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), and histone modification. Furthermore, the pursuit of overcoming temozolomide (TMZ) resistance and the exploration of diverse emerging therapeutic strategies have emerged as pivotal avenues for future research within the field of glioma epigenetics.
Modelling hemodynamics regulation in rats and dogs to facilitate drugs safety risk assessment
Authors: Morris Christopher J. , Rolf Michael G. , Starnes Linda , Villar Inmaculada C. , Pointon Amy , Kimko Holly , Di Veroli Giovanni Y.
Published: October 2024

Pharmaceutical companies routinely screen compounds for hemodynamics related safety risk. In vitro secondary pharmacology is initially used to prioritize compounds while in vivo studies are later used to quantify and translate risk to humans. This strategy has shown limitations but could be improved via the incorporation of molecular findings in the animal-based toxicological risk assessment. The aim of this study is to develop a mathematical model for rat and dog species that can integrate secondary pharmacology modulation and therefore facilitate the overall pre-clinical safety translation assessment. Following an extensive literature review, we built two separate models recapitulating known regulation processes in dogs and rats. We describe the resulting models and show that they can reproduce a variety of interventions in both species. We also show that the models can incorporate the mechanisms of action of a pre-defined list of 50 pharmacological mechanisms whose modulation predict results consistent with known pharmacology. In conclusion, a mechanistic model of hemodynamics regulations in rat and dog species has been developed to support mechanism-based safety translation in drug discovery and development.
Evaluating Sorghum bicolor resistance to Solidago canadensis invasion under different nitrogen scenarios
Authors: Anas Muhammad , Khan Irfan Ullah , Alomrani Sarah Owdah , Nawaz Mohsin , Huang Zhi-Yun , Alshehri Mohammed Ali , Al-Ghanim Khalid A. , Qi Shan-Shan , Li Jian , Dai Zhi-Cong , Ali Shafaqat , Du Dao-Lin
Published: October 2024

Ecosystem exposure to a biological invasion such as plant invasion could contribute to the extinction of native species and loss of productivity and ecosystem balance. Solidago canadensis (S. canadensis) is a highly invasive species that has formed monocultures in China, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. It was designated as a notorious invasive species by the Chinese government. It has adversely affected the agroecosystem’s ability to germinate various plant seeds, including wheat, lettuce, and pepper, which could lead to food insecurity. This study was conducted to control the invasive species S. canadensis by utilizing a competitive species, Sorghum bicolor (S. bicolor) as a cover plant. Sorghum bicolor exudes allelochemicals such as sorgoleone from its roots which suppress the photosystem II activity of nearby plants. The synthesis of sorgoleone depends on a supply of nitrogen. The present study involved the cultivation of S. bicolor alongside the invasive species S. canadensis, with three different invasion levels (high, medium, and low) and three different nitrogen forms (ammonical, nitrate, and combined ammonical and nitrate nitrogen) applied as a modified Hogland solution. S. bicolor expressed higher performance over the invasive species under ammonical and combined nitrogen forms under low and medium invasion levels. Furthermore, even at greater levels of invasion, S. bicolor was not suppressed by S. canadensis. However, the plant height and dry biomass of S. bicolor were significantly high across both nitrogen forms. Leaf area, CO2 uptake, and photosystem II activity of S. canadensis were unable to sustain its growth under the low invasion condition. The plant biomass of S. canadensis was suppressed by up to 80% and the relative dominance index of S. bicolor was 5.22 over S. canadensis. There was a strong correlation between CO2 uptake, leaf area, and plant biomass. Principal component analysis showed that the first four components had a total variance of 96.89%, with principal component 1 (PC1) having the highest eigenvalue at 18.65. These promising findings suggested that S. bicolor, whose high intensity might be employed to control the invasion process for environmental safety, might be able to recover the barren ground that S. canadensis had invaded.
Brain volume is a better biomarker of outcomes in ischemic stroke compared to brain atrophy
Authors: Alhadid Kenda , Regenhardt Robert W. , Rost Natalia S. , Schirmer Markus D.
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether brain volume at the time of ischemic stroke injury is a better biomarker for predicting functional outcomes than brain atrophy.

Background

Brain parenchymal fraction (BPF) has been used as a surrogate measure of global brain atrophy and a neuroimaging biomarker of brain reserve in studies evaluating clinical outcomes after brain injury. Brain volume itself is affected by natural aging, cardiovascular risk factors, and biological sex, among other factors. Recent studies have shown that brain volume at the time of injury can influence functional outcomes, with larger brain volumes being associated with better outcomes.

Methods

Acute ischemic stroke cases at a single center between 2003 and 2011, with neuroimaging obtained within 48 h of presentation were eligible for the study. Functional outcomes represented by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 90 days post-admission (mRS score ≤ 2 deemed a favorable outcome) were obtained through patient interviews or per chart review. Deep learning–enabled automated segmentation pipelines were used to calculate brain volume, intracranial volume, and BPF on the acute neuroimaging data. Patient outcomes were modeled through logistic regressions, and a model comparison was conducted using the Bayes information criterion (BIC).

Results

A total of 467 patients with arterial ischemic stroke were included in the analysis, with a median age of 65.8 years and 65.3% of the participants being male. In both models, age and a larger stroke lesion volume were associated with worse functional outcomes. Higher BPF and a larger brain volume were associated with favorable functional outcomes; however, a comparison of both models suggested that the brain volume model (BIC = 501) better explains the data than the BPF model (BIC = 511).

Conclusion

The extent of global brain atrophy (and its surrogate biomarker BPF) has been regarded as an important biomarker for predicting functional post-stroke outcomes and resilience to acute injury. In this study, we demonstrate that a higher global brain volume at the time of injury better explains favorable functional outcomes, which can be directly measured in a clinical setting.
Kluczowe zmiany w samodzielności i ustrojowej niezależności jednostek samorządu terytorialnego kadencji 2018–2023
Authors: Springer Beata
Published: October 2024

The article deals with the most important changes in the independence and systemic autonomy of local self-government units of the 2018–2023 term. Both normative solutions and actual actions and behaviours that have a fundamental impact on the functioning of local self-government will be analysed. For a more complete picture of the current term, it will be necessary to briefly characterise the changes introduced after 2015. It is also important for the overall analysis to look from the perspective of those currently in power and characterise their vision of the state and the role of local government in the political system. The idea of a strong, effective state determines the perception of the role of local government and the relationship at the interface between local government and government administration.