bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary complications and mortality among COVID-19 patients undergoing a surgery: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Amzallag Éva , Panchadsaram Thanushka , Lecluyse Vincent , Couture Etienne J. , D’Aragon Frédérick , Kandelman Stanislas , Turgeon Alexis F. , Jodoin Caroline , Girard Martin , Beaulieu Pierre , Richebé Philippe , Carrier François Martin
Published: February 2024

Background
Managing COVID-19-positive patients requiring surgery is complex due to perceived heightened perioperative risks. However, Canadian data in this context remains scarce. To address this gap, we conducted a multicenter cohort study in the province of Québec, the Canadian province most affected during the initial waves of the pandemic, to comprehensively assess the impact of COVID-19 symptoms, and recovery time, on postoperative outcomes in surgical patients.
Methods
We included adult surgical patients with either active COVID-19 at time of surgery or those who had recovered from the disease, from March 13, 2020, to April 30, 2021. We evaluated the association between symptoms or recovery time and postoperative pulmonary complications and hospital mortality using multivariable logistic regression and Cox models.
Results
We included 105 patients with an active infection (47 were symptomatic and 58 were asymptomatic) and 206 who had healed from COVID-19 in seven hospitals. Among patients with an active infection, those who were symptomatic had a higher risk of pulmonary complications (odds ratio = 3.19; 95% CI, from 1.12 to 9.68; p = 0.03) and hospital mortality (hazard ratio = 3.67; 95% CI, from 1.19 to 11.32; p = 0.02). We did not observe any significant effect of the duration of recovery prior to surgery on patients who had healed from their infection. Their postoperative outcomes were also similar to those observed in asymptomatic patients.
Interpretation
Symptomatic status should be considered in the decision to proceed with surgery in COVID-19-positive patients. Our results may help optimize surgical care in this patient population.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04458337, Registration Date: July 7, 2020.
Evaluation of the Impact of Temperature and pooling sample to Detect and Isolate the Major Escherichia coli Serogroups Producing Shiga toxin with alternative and standard methods
Authors: BOUVIER Marion , Thollet Camille , Douellou Thomas , Sergentet Delphine Thevenot
Published: February 2024

Pathogenic shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are an important cause of food-borne illness. The detection of STECs in finished products and during the manufacturing process has an important role as part of verification plans, to confirm that practices and procedures described in the food safety program are successful applied to control STEC. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of increasing the enrichment temperature (from 37°C to 41.5°C) and the feasibility of pooling for the detection of “Top6", non-O157, samples in raw meat products. Both ISO TS 13 136:2012 and a novel alternative method were implemented to evaluate the impact of those new parameters. An increase of the enrichment temperature to 41.5°C allowed the detection of the spiked strain for 10% more samples compared to enrichment at 37°C. The realization of analysis by pooling the samples is compatible with the two methods used. Among the 220 food enrichments analyzed, faster results were obtained by the alternative method described in this work than by the ISO/TS 13 136 reference method. Our study showed that both methods allowed the detection and isolation of STEC strains from food enrichments.
Evaluation of climate change and land-use impacts on groundwater dynamics in the Bari Doab Canal System
Authors: Haider Saif , Rashid Muhammad , Saleem Jawad
Published: February 2024

Globally, groundwater depletion has grown to be a serious issue, as land and water resources have been gravely exhausted due to the rising population's desire for food and water. The current research evaluated the decline in groundwater caused by land use and climate change in the Bari Doab Canal, Pakistan utilizing the latest Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) collection of several global climate models (GCMs). Cellular Automata Markov Chain model was used to create LULC maps of 2030, 2060, and 2100 by analyzing the changes based on satellite imagery gathered in 2000, 2010, and 2020. Groundwater extraction was estimated through the deficit of effective rainfall and net canal water use from evapotranspiration after compensating soil moisture storage changes. GCM projected rainfall and temperature under two Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) SSP2 and SSP5 was downscaled using the CMhyd model till the end of the twenty-first century. The precipitation, maximum and minimum temperatures, and crop water requirements were anticipated to increase by downscaled projections of a selected model (MPI-ESM1-2-HR) till the end of the twenty-first century compared to the baseline period (1981–2020). The groundwater table had dropped by 0.62 meters annually through 16 years (2005–2020). The model simulated outcomes demonstrated the detrimental effects of the expected changes in land use and climate on the groundwater in Bari Doab. This study supports the development of appropriate adaptation measures by policymakers and stakeholders to mitigate the detrimental impacts of climate and land use change on groundwater dynamics.
Enhancement of technical, economic and environment Benefits of PQ disturbances in Grid connected system using fuzzy logic based IUPQC
Authors: Fangzong Wang , Nishtar Zuhaib
Published: February 2024

Maintaining peak performance in modern power systems while dealing with power quality disturbances (PQDs) is no easy feat. This study suggests a new way to improve grid-connected systems' technical, economic, and environmental benefits during PQDs by using an Interline Unified Power Quality Conditioner (IUPQC) based on fuzzy logic. The research uses state-of-the-art methods that incorporate fuzzy logic control into the IUPQC framework to reduce voltage sag, swell, flicker, harmonics, and interruptions, among other PQDs. Considering the nonlinear and ever-changing character of PQDs, fuzzy logic is an excellent choice for a control mechanism because of its resilience and adaptability in the face of uncertain and imprecise input. The IUPQC detects and responds to PQDs by analyzing system conditions and adjusting its operation with the use of fuzzy logic-based control algorithms. An advanced power conditioning device in and of itself, the IUPQC can mitigate numerous PQDs at various points in the power distribution system all at once. The IUPQC outperforms and provides more flexibility than traditional power quality mitigation devices by combining shunt active power filters with series filters. The research models the grid-connected system and simulates various PQDs situations using powerful simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink. Furthermore, experimental validation is carried out using real-world hardware configurations to confirm the efficacy and practicability of the suggested fuzzy logic-based IUPQC in reducing PQDs in real-world operating scenarios. Field implementation and case studies, environmental effect assessment, multi-objective optimization, and comparison analysis will all be further explored in the revised and expanded edition of this project. The fuzzy logic-based IUPQC will be compared to other methods for reducing PQDs, including active power filters, passive filters, and traditional IUPQC, to show how much better it is and how much less expensive it is. In addition, we will evaluate fuzzy logic-based control parameters of the IUPQC using multi-objective optimization approaches. These techniques consider conflicting objectives such minimizing system losses, maximizing power quality improvement, and decreasing operational expenses. Reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, conserving energy, and improving sustainability are just a few of the environmental benefits that an extensive environmental impact assessment will identify. Lastly, case studies and real-world implementation will show how the fuzzy logic-based IUPQC works in various real-world settings, shedding light on its advantages like lower downtime, better power quality, and cost savings for both power utilities and end users.
Stigmasterol mitigates rheumatoid arthritis progression by decreasing Nrf2/NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis in chondrocyte
Authors: Ding Li , Xiao Lianbo , Lin Huijun , He Yong , Ding Sheng , Zhang Jiechao
Published: February 2024

Background
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-lasting inflammatory joint disorder characterized by joint swelling, stiffness, pain, and loss of function in joints. Chondrocyte inflammation and apoptosis are closely associated with cartilage destruction. Stigmasterol (Stig) is a phytosterol with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. In the study, we aimed to investigate whether Stig mitigates RA progression by decreasing chondrocyte injury.
Methods and Results
A mouse RA model was established by injecting intradermally type Ⅱ collagen into the tail roots of mice. Arthritic score and spleen index were measured in RA mice to assess the effects of Stig on RA progression. Lipopolysaccharide (Lps)-treated chondrocytes were applied as the cell model of RA. The roles of Stig in chondrocyte viability, proliferation, migration, inflammation, and injury were tested using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), EdU, transwell, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and western blot assays, respectively. Our results demonstrated that Stig exhibited no significant cytotoxicity against CHON-001 chondrocytes, but Stig effectively inhibited Lps-induced decreases in cell viability, proliferation, and migration. Stig also alleviated Lps-evoked pro-inflammatory responses and CHON-001 cell injury. Mechanistically, Stig inhibited Lps-induced nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation and subsequent NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation, resulting in CHON-001 pyroptosis. Nigericin, a NLRP3 activator, reversed the effects of Stig on mitigating CHON-001 cell injury. Furthermore, the clinical severity in RA mice was improved after Stig treatment.
Conclusions
In summary, Stig decreases Lps-induced chondrocyte injury and mitigates RA progression by inhibiting Nrf2/NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis, thereby providing the opportunity to treat RA.
Recommendations for digital sharing of notes with adolescents in mental health care: a Delphi study
Authors: Nielsen Martine Stecher , Steinsbekk Aslak , Nøst Torunn Hatlen
Published: February 2024

Introduction: In many countries, healthcare professionals are legally obliged to share information from electronic health records with patients. However, concerns have been raised regarding the sharing of notes with adolescents in mental health care, and healthcare professionals have called for recommendations to guide this practice. Therefore, the aim was to reach a consensus among authors of scientific papers on recommendations for healthcare professionals’ digital sharing of notes with adolescents in mental health care. In addition, to describe whether staff at child and adolescent specialist mental healthcare clinics agreed with the recommendations.
Methods: A Delphi study was conducted with authors of scientific papers to reach a consensus on recommendations. Additionally, a cross-sectional study was conducted among staff at the specialist child and adolescent mental healthcare clinics to assess whether they agreed with the recommendations that reached a consensus.
Results: Twenty-seven of the 84 invited authors responded. A consensus was achieved on 17 recommendations on central areas related to the digital sharing of notes with adolescents in mental health care. The recommendations considered how to introduce digital access to notes, write notes, support healthcare professionals, and when to withhold notes. Sixty percent or more of the 41 staff members at child and adolescent specialist mental healthcare clinics agreed with the 17 recommendations.
Conclusion: Seventeen recommendations for healthcare professionals’ digital sharing of notes with adolescents in mental health care were established through a Delphi study and supported by staff at child and adolescent specialist mental healthcare clinics. Healthcare professionals can use these recommendations to guide their practice of sharing notes with adolescents in mental health care.
Harmonic Mitigation of the Microgrid Using Multi Hidden Layer Recurrent Neural Network Controlled SAPF
Authors: P Divya Banu. , Sundar G
Published: February 2024

Recently, renewable energy systems are more prevalent than traditional energy systems. Especially, Photovoltaic (PV) systems and wind power systems are playing an important part in meeting the world's energy needs. The present needs of more nonlinear loads drastically create power quality issues in the grid-connected system. As a result, it causes an undesired power quality defect that takes the manner of an alteration in the amplitude and patterns of voltage and current in the power system. The shunt active power filter (SAPF) delivers the appropriate current in shunt to grids while suppressing harmonics created by grid-tied nonlinear loads. This paper proposes a multi hidden layer recurrent neural network (RNN) controller for the developing a reference signal in synchronous reference frame theory. RNN is proposed for its high efficacy compared to neural networks, due to self-loops and memory. The effectiveness of the proposed multi-hidden layer RNN-based SAPF system is compared with the performance of neural networks and traditional PI controller-based SAPF systems in terms of harmonic mitigation. Effective harmonic mitigation by proposed multi-hidden layer RNN results current THD of proposed microgrid to 1.74%.
Clinical Value of Microsurgery Combined with Covering New Urethra by Multilayer Sarcolemma Tissues in the Treatment of Hypospadias in Male Children and Analysis of Urodynamic Parameters
Authors: Zheng Wei , Guo Shi-lei , Shi Xiao-qing , Wang Jie , Zhang Bo-song , Li Li-wei , Liu Chuang , Yang Bin
Published: February 2024

Objective
To compare and analyze differences in the clinical effect and postoperative urodynamic indexes of microsurgery combined with covering new urethra by multilayer sarcolemma tissues and conventional surgery alone in the treatment of male children with hypospadias.
Methods
A total of 80 male children with penile hypospadias who were hospitalized in Beijing Children's Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University Baoding Hospital were randomly divided into two groups, with 40 in each group. Children in the study group underwent microsurgery combined with covering new urethra by multilayer sarcolemma tissues, while those in the control group were provided with traditional tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty alone. Further comparative analysis was performed on the operation effect, operation time, total intraoperative bleeding, postoperative length of stay in the hospital and the incidence of surgical complications between the two groups. All male children were followed up for 6 months to compare and analyze the changes of urodynamic parameters such as maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), mean urinary flow rate (Qavc), post-void residual urine (PVR) before and after surgery.
Results
There were statistically significant differences that the operation time(p = 0.03) was longer while the postoperative length of stay in the hospital (p = 0.000) was shorter in the study group than those in the control group. The effective rate of the study group was 97.50%, while that of the control group was 82.50%, with statistically significant difference (p = 0.025). The incidence of surgical complications was 7.50% in the study group and 25.00% in the control group 3 months after operation (p = 0.034). There was statistically significant difference that the Hose score of the study group was significantly higher than that of the control group (p = 0.000). Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in indicators such as Qmax, Qavc and PVR between the two groups before surgery; while the levels of Qmax and Qavc in the study group were higher than those in the control group 6 months after surgery, with statistically significant difference (p = 0.000).
Conclusion
Microsurgery combined with covering new urethra by multilayer sarcolemma tissues has certain clinical value in the treatment of male children with hypospadias, which shows good therapeutic effect, shorter length of stay in the hospital, lower incidence of postoperative complications, and significantly improved urodynamic indicators, despite slightly complicated operation and relatively longer duration of operation.
Summer heat, historic redlining, and neighborhood walking among older adults: 2017 National Household Travel Survey
Authors: Mitsova Diana , Besser Lilah , Le Elaine Thanh Truc
Published: February 2024

No known studies have examined the relationships between urban heat islands, historic redlining, and neighborhood walking in older adults. We assessed whether: 1) individual and neighborhood characteristics (including redlining score) differ by neighborhood summer land surface temperature (LST); 2) higher LST is associated with less neighborhood walking, and whether associations differ by historic redlining score; and 3) neighborhoods with discriminatory redlining scores have greater LSTs. We used data on 3,982 ≥65-year olds from the 2017 National Household Travel Survey. Multivariable negative binomial and linear regressions tested associations between LST z-score (comparing participant's neighborhood LST to surrounding region's LST) and self-reported neighborhood walking, and the association between living in neighborhoods redlined as "definitely declining" or "hazardous" (versus "still desirable"/"best") and LST z-score. LSTs were higher for those in neighborhoods with higher area deprivation scores and more African American/Black residents. Older adults living in neighborhoods with higher summer LST z-scores had fewer minutes of neighborhood walking/day. This association seemed limited to individuals with neighborhood redlining scores of "still desirable"/"best". Neighborhood redlining scores of "definitely declining" or "hazardous" (versus "still desirable" and "best") were associated with greater neighborhood summer LSTs. Overall, these findings suggest that historically redlined neighborhoods may more often experience urban heat island effects, and older adults living in hotter neighborhoods may less often engage in neighborhood walking. Future work is needed to elucidate the impact of extreme heat on health promoting behaviors such as walking and the types of interventions that can successfully counteract negative impacts to historically disadvantaged communities.
Occurrence and characteristics of elderly With Covid-19 in southern Brazil
Authors: Wagner Luana Schayene , dos Santos Gabrieli de Fátima Prudêncio , Dos Santos Juliana Lemes , Mugnol Tatiana , Golle Diego Pascoal , Bortolotto Josiane Woutheres , Parisi Mariana Migliorini , Coser Janaina
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to describe the occurrence of COVID-19 in elderly patients treated at public health services in southern Brazil cities and their clinical and sociodemographic characteristics. This is a cross-sectional, observational, and retrospective study. From July 2020 to May 2021, medical records of elderly patients who underwent a test for COVID-19 at the molecular diagnostics laboratory of the University of Cruz Alta were selected. 310 elderly patients, with an average age of 60 to 99 years, were included in the study. Information was collected regarding the result of the RT-qPCR test, gender, symptoms, and comorbidities. We identified that 24.2% of the elderly evaluated in the study had a positive molecular diagnosis for COVID-19. The average age of the sample studied was 69 years (±8.89). Females had a higher proportion of positive cases (69.3%) compared to males (30.7%) (p=0.017). A higher proportion of individuals infected with SARS-Cov2 among those who reported cough, fever >37°C and pre-existing cardiovascular diseases (p = 0.028; 0.015; 0.017 respectively) was also identified. Learning the clinical and sociodemographic profile of the elderly with COVID-19 can contribute to strategies for care and prevention of the disease in this group. The study findings indicate that greater attention should be given to the elderly with heart diseases and those who have fevers and coughs.
Analysis of the Influence of Investment, Premium Income, and Tabarru' Funds on Sharia Insurance Company Profits
Authors: Marwini Marwini , Lestari Munita Indah
Published: February 2024

This study aims to determine investment, premium income, and tabarru funds on profits of sharia life insurance companies in Indonesia. This study tested the hypothesis which stated that there was an effect of investment, premium income, and tabarru funds on profits. This data collection technique uses a purposive sampling technique with certain criteria. The population in this study were 24 sharia life insurance companies registered with the Financial Services Authority and the sample in this study were 6 sharia life insurance companies. Data analysis technique using multiple linear regression analysis. The research results showbased on the results of the regression test and t test investment has a positive and significant effect on insurance company profits. The tcount value is positive, meaning that the higher the investment, the higher the profit earned by the sharia life insurance company.Based on the results of the regression test and the t test, premium income has a positive and significant effect on insurance company profits. The tcount value is positive, meaning that the higher the premium income, the higher the profit earned by the sharia life insurance company.Based on the results of the regression test and t test, tabarru funds have a negative and significant effect on insurance company profits. The tcount value is negative, meaning that the higher the Tabarru fund, the lower the profit earned by the sharia life insurance company.
Word Order in the Communicative Structure of the Sentence in Russian and Persian Languages
Authors: Davoudi Afsaneh , Valipour Alireza
Published: February 2024

The article introduces a comparative analysis of the word order in the communicative structure of the sentence in Russian and Persian. The research also covered means and methods of expressing communicative structure, as well as the rules and patterns of word order on the communicative level. In both languages, the communicative aspect of the sentence is closely related to the word order, which is the main tool of expressing the semantic division of the sentence. However, the communicative word order patterns are different. In the neutral speech, both languages put the theme (background information) in front of the rheme (actual information). In expressive speech, the Russian rheme is placed at the beginning of the sentence while the theme follows it. In other words, the thought moves from the actual information to the background information. When the communicative division of the sentence changes, the word order also changes. Based on the analysis of the word order in neutral and expressive speech, direct and inverted word orders are associated with the function that these components perform in the theme-rheme relationship. Persian, however, has a fixed word order, and allows for no inversion: the theme and the rheme are fixed, and the background information always precedes the new one. In the Russian language, any part of the sentence can be the theme or the rheme. In Persian, the function of the theme or the rheme belongs to particular sentence components.
Harnessing the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles from Strychnos potatorum seeds impregnated with activated carbon for an effective removal of fluoride in deep soil water
Authors: V. Akshaya , G. Jayanthi
Published: February 2024

Fluoride (F−) contamination in global water sources is a growing concern, prompting the need for innovative solutions. This explores a novel method using zinc oxide nanoparticle-activated carbon (ZnO-NP/AC) composite for efficient fluoride removal from deep soil water, aiming to evaluate its effectiveness in attracting fluoride contaminants. The focus is on treatment of water sample collected from Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu, using green synthesis method for ZnO-NP/AC column filter. Employed an exclusive column adsorption method, investigated on physiochemical parameters in water before and after running the column. Fluoride concentration and TDS where significantly harnessed in water after running the green synthesis composite column filter. Characterization of green synthesized nanoparticles of Strychnos potatorum seed powder synthesis with ZnO NPs. Green synthesis successes were confirmed in two ways; one way is UV-visible spectrophotometer technique in depth quantity peak and another one is graphically peak from SEM, density and crystalline structure in XRD techniques. Column composite with S.potatorum ZnO-AC NPs has removed fluoride efficiently (80.5%) at range of 20 g/L for a contact time of 60 minutes, surpassing World health organization (WHO) guidelines for safe drinking water. In conclusion ZnO-AC NPs composite is a sustainable and cost-effective method for effective removal of fluoride contaminants from deep soil water, addressing a pressing global issue.
Modeling flow of the major canals of Sylhet city using the EPA SWMM runoff model
Authors: Munna Gulam Md , Hasan Md Mahmudul , Alam Md Jahir Bin , Uddin Md Misbah , Rahman Mohammad Shahidur , Nury Ahmad Hasan , Islam Shriful
Published: February 2024

Geographically, local canals in Sylhet city, Bangladesh, mostly transport the rainwater to the Surma River as the city lacks typical drainage infrastructure for runoff control. Hence, proper hydraulic and hydrologic models are required to assess the current potential of these canals to withstand significant runoff and enhance the protection of flood problems during a severe storm. In this study, Malni Chara and Goali Chara sub-systems of Sylhet city's major drainage networks were calibrated and verified using the EPA Storm Water Management Model (SWMM), respectively, using the hydrological data from 2016 to 2019 and the meteorological data from 1975 to 2019. The models were suitable for measuring the runoff quantity since the simulated results matched the observed data well. For the Malni Chara sub-system, R2 of 0.94, Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) of 0.92, d of 0.97, percent bias (PBIAS) (%) of 2.96%, and RMSE standard deviation ratio (RSR) of 0.05 have been found and for the Goali Chara sub-system, R2 of 0.96, NSE of 0.90, d of 0.93, PBIAS (%) of 1.54%, and RSR of 0.08 have been found.
Effect of Bovine Lactoferrin Treatment on Iron Homeostasis and Gene
Expression Changes in Multiple Organ Dysfunctions During Wound
Healing Process in Rats
Authors: Bozkurt Ahmet Sarper , Yılmaz Şenay Görücü
Published: February 2024

Background:

Injury systemically disrupts the homeostatic balance and can cause organ
failure. LF mediates both iron-dependent and iron-independent mechanisms, and the role of LF in
regulating iron homeostasis is vital in terms of metabolism.

Objectives:

In this study, we evaluated the organ-level effect and gene expression change of bLf
in the cutaneous repair process.

Materials and Methods:

An excisional full-thickness skin defect (FTSD) wound model was created
in male Sprague Dawley rats (180-250 g) (n = 48) fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and the PHGPx,
SLC7A11 and SLC40A1 genes and iron metabolism were evaluated. The animals were randomly
divided into 6 groups: 1- Control, 2- bLf (200 mg/kg/day, oral), 3- FTSD (12 mm in diameter, dorsal),
4- HFD + bLf, 5- HFD + FTSD, 6- HFD + FTSD + bLf. Histologically, iron accumulation
was demonstrated by Prussian blue staining in the liver, kidney, and intestinal tissues. Gene expression
analysis was performed with qPCR.

Results:

Histologically, iron accumulation was demonstrated by Prussian blue staining in the liver,
kidney, and intestinal tissues. Prussian blue reactions were detected in the kidney. PHPGx and
SLC7A11 genes in kidney and liver tissue were statistically significant (P < 0.05) except for the
SLC40A1 gene (P > 0.05). Expression changes of the three genes were not statistically significant
in analyses of rat intestinal tissue (P = 0.057).

Conclusion:

In the organ-level ferroptotic damage mechanism triggered by wound formation. BLf
controls the expression of three genes and manages iron deposition in these three tissues. In addition,
it suppressed the increase in iron that would drive the cell to ferroptosis and anemia caused
by inflammation, thereby eliminating iron deposition in the tissues.
Repurposing of Plant-based Antiviral Molecules for the Treatment of
COVID-19
Authors: Khazir Jabeena , Ahmed Sajad , Thakur Rakesh Kr , Hussain Manzoor , Gandhi Sumit G. , Babbar Sadhana , Mir Shabir Ahmad , Shafi Nusrat , Tonfack Libert Brice , Rajpal Vijay Rani , Maqbool Tariq , Mir Bilal Ahmad , Peer Latif Ahmad
Published: February 2024

COVID-19, stemming from SARS-CoV-2, poses a formidable threat to global healthcare, with a staggering 77 million confirmed cases and 690,067 deaths recorded till Decem-ber 24, 2023. Given the absence of specific drugs for this viral infection, the exploration of novel antiviral compounds becomes imperative. High-throughput technologies are actively engaged in drug discovery, and there is a parallel effort to repurpose plant-based molecules with established antiviral properties. In this context, the review meticulously delves into the potential of plant-based folk remedies and existing molecules. These substances have showcased substantial viral inhibition in diverse in vivo, in silico, and in vitro studies, particularly against critical viral protein targets, including SARS-CoV-2. The findings position these plant-based molecules as promising antiviral drug candidates for the swift advancement of treatments for COVID-19. It is noteworthy that the inherent attributes of these plant-based molecules, such as their natural origin, potency, safety, and cost-effectiveness, contribute to their appeal as lead candidates. The review advocates for further exploration through comprehensive in vivo studies conducted on animal models, em-phasizing the potential of plant-based compounds to help in the ongoing quest to develop effec-tive antivirals against COVID-19.
IMPDH2 Positively Impacts the Proliferation Potential of Hepatoblastoma Cells
by Activating JunB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yuan Li , Zeng Liang , Ye Feng , Chen Kai , Chen Zhengrong , Li Liping
Published: February 2024

Background::

Amplification of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase II, EC 1,1,1,205 (IMPDH2) has been reported in various cancers, which results in
transformation and tumorigenicity. In our current work, we have explored the oncogenic properties and the underlying pathophysiology of
IMPDH2 in hepatoblastoma (HB).

Methods::

To investigate IMPDH2 expression in HB tissues and prognostic significance in HB patients, gene expression profiling interactive analysis
(GEPIA) has been adopted. Immunohistochemistry has also helped to validate the protein expression of IMPDH2 in HB tissues. The effect of
IMPDH2 overexpression or depletion on the proliferation of Hepatoblastoma cells in vitro has been evaluated by CCK8 assays and colony
formation assays. Xenograft tumor growth of mice has been detected. Luciferase reporter assays have been conducted to determine the interaction
of IMPDH2 and JunB, which was further asserted by pharmacological inhibition of JunB.

Results::

IMPDH2 was highly expressed in HB tissues. Experimentally, the proliferation and colony formation of HuH6 cells were increased by IMPDH2
overexpression. Conversely, genetic inactivation of IMPDH2 impaired the proliferative efficiency and colony-forming rate of HepG2 cells.
Besides, the luciferase reporter assay validated IMPDH2 overexpression to be associated with enhanced JunB transcriptional activity, while its
activity was diminished in the case of IMPDH2 depletion. JunB inhibitor neutralized the IMPDH2-mediated increased phosphorylation of JunB.

Conclusion::

Our findings, thus, suggest that IMPDH2 exhibits its oncogenic role in HB partially via JunB-dependent proliferation.
Emergent Endovascular Treatment of Iatrogenous Pseudoaneurysms of the
Neck Following Jugular Catheterization
Authors: Deniz Sinan , Abaci Gizem
Published: February 2024

Introduction::

Inadvertent puncture of the adjacent structures during a central venous catheterization is a well-known complication which may be managed conservatively when the injury is self-limiting, but requires a further treatment when there’s a proof of an active bleeding and/or a growing hematoma.

Case Representation:

We report a case of a 57-year-old bone-marrow-transplant patient with neck hematoma and bleeding followed by a non-sonographic-guided central venous line placement. CT showed a right sided hematoma in the neck region with a midline shift of the airway. The patient was under prophylactic LMWH. Emergent angiography demonstrated three different bleeding sites which were successfully embolized with coil and liquid embolic agents by endovascular means.

Conclusion:

Interventional radiology offers a quick and safe approach in the management of potentially life-threatening bleeding complications.
Assessment of health literacy and use of contraceptive methods in married women aged 18 to 49 years
Authors: ŞAHİN Sevil , BULUT Özlem Ülkü , ÜNSAL Alaettin
Published: February 2024

Objective: To determine the level of health literacy and assess contraceptive use in married women.
Methods: From August 2020 to October 2020, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among married women aged 18 years and older residing in various regions across Turkey. The survey targeted this demographic via an online questionnaire, carefully crafted by existing literature and aligned with the study's aims. The study cohort consisted of 1024 married women who voluntarily participated in the research.
Results: The study group included women between the ages of 18 and 49, with a mean age of 32.74 years and a standard deviation of 6.85. Scores on the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire spanned from 1.11 to 50.0, with a central score at the median of 34.38. Health literacy was found to be lower in those aged 35 years and above, those who graduated from primary school, those who have been married for 20 years or more, those who had given birth 3 times or more, those with 2 and more living children and those with a history of stillbirth. While no significant relationship was found between the use of contraceptive methods and health literacy, health literacy was determined to be higher among women who stated that they would prefer a modern method if they had to use a contraceptive method again.
Conclusion: It can be suggested that married women had moderate health literacy. Preference for modern contraceptive methods can be encouraged through informative activities to improve the health literacy of women.
Capturing the Dynamics of Homelessness Through Ethnography and Mobile Technology: Protocol for the Development and Testing of a Smartphone Technology–Supported Intervention
Authors: Foster Marva , Fix Gemmae M , Hyde Justeen , Dunlap Shawn , Byrne Thomas H , Sugie Naomi F , Kuhn Randall , Gabrielian Sonya , Roncarati Jill S , Zhao Shibei , McInnes D Keith
Published: February 2024

Background

US military veterans who have experienced homelessness often have high rates of housing transition. Disruptions caused by these transitions likely exacerbate this population’s health problems and interfere with access to care and treatment engagement. Individuals experiencing homelessness increasingly use smartphones, contributing to improved access to medical and social services. Few studies have used smartphones as a data collection tool to systematically collect information about the daily life events that precede and contribute to housing transitions, in-the-moment emotions, behaviors, geographic movements, and perceived social support.

Objective

The study aims to develop and test a smartphone app to collect longitudinal data from veterans experiencing homelessness (VEH) and to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of using the app in a population that is unstably housed or homeless.

Methods

This study’s design had 3 phases. Phase 1 used ethnographic methods to capture detailed data on day-to-day lived experiences of up to 30 VEH on topics such as housing stability, health, and health behaviors. Phase 2 involved focus groups and usability testing to develop and refine mobile phone data collection methods. Phase 3 piloted the smartphone mobile data collection with 30 VEH. We included mobile ethnography, real-time surveys through an app, and the collection of GPS data in phase 3.

Results

The project was launched in June 2020, and at this point, some data collection and analysis for phases 1 and 2 are complete. This project is currently in progress.

Conclusions

This multiphase study will provide rich data on the context and immediate events leading to housing transitions among VEH. This study will ensure the development of a smartphone app that will match the actual needs of VEH by involving them in the design process from the beginning. Finally, this study will offer important insights into how best to develop a smartphone app that can help intervene among VEH to reduce housing transitions.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/53022
Community-Dwelling Older Adults’ Readiness for Adopting Digital Health Technologies: Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Ausserhofer Dietmar , Piccoliori Giuliano , Engl Adolf , Mahlknecht Angelika , Plagg Barbara , Barbieri Verena , Colletti Nicoletta , Lombardo Stefano , Gärtner Timon , Tappeiner Waltraud , Wieser Heike , Wiedermann Christian Josef
Published: February 2024

Background

Digital health technologies offer the potential to improve the daily lives of older adults, maintain their health efficiently, and allow aging in place. Despite increasing evidence of benefits and advantages, readiness for adopting digital interventions among older people remains underexplored.

Objective

This study aims to explore the relationships between sociodemographic-, health-, and lifestyle-related factors and technology use in everyday life and community-dwelling older adults’ readiness to adopt telemedicine, smartphones with texting apps, wearables, and robotics.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, population-based survey study with a stratified probabilistic sample of adults aged 75 years or older living in South Tyrol (autonomous province of Bolzano/Bozen, Italy). A random sample of 3600 community-dwelling older adults living at home was invited to complete a questionnaire including single items (older adults’ readiness to use health technology) and scales (PRISMA-7; Program of Research on Integration of Services for the Maintenance of Autonomy). Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed to analyze the data.

Results

In total, 1695 community-dwelling older adults completed the survey (for a response rate of 47%). In terms of potential digital health technology adoption, wearable devices were favored by 33.7% (n=571), telemedicine by 30.1% (n=510), smartphones and texting apps by 24.5% (n=416), and assistant robots by 13.7% (n=232). Sociodemographic-, health- and lifestyle-related factors, as well as the use of technology in everyday life, played a significant role in explaining readiness to adopt digital health technologies. For telemedicine, age ≥85 years (odds ratio [OR] 0.74, 95% CI 0.56-0.96), financial constraints (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.49-0.95), and less than 2 hours of physical activity per week (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.58-0.98) were associated with nonreadiness, while Italian-speaking participants (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.16-2.05) and those regularly using computers (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.16-2.60), smartphones (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.22-2.35), and the internet (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.47-3.49) reported readiness for adoption.

Conclusions

Community-dwelling older adults display varied readiness toward the adoption of digital health technologies, influenced by age, mother tongue, living situation, financial resources, physical activity, and current use of technology. The findings underscore the need for tailored interventions and educational programs to boost digital health technology adoption among community-dwelling older adults.
Factors Affecting Audit Quality In Internal Auditors
Authors: Pangestu Siam , Hidayah Yuniarti
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the influence of competence, independence, objectivity, ethical sensitivity, and experience of auditors on the quality of audit results at the Tulungagung Regency Inspectorate.
Methodology/approach: This research uses a quantitative methods using questionnaires distributed to auditors and P2UPD at the Tulungagung Regency Inspectorate.  Data were analysed using a statistical application SmartPLS 3.
Findings: The results show, that independence, ethical sensitivity, and auditor experience significantly affect the quality of audit results. Meanwhile, competence and objectivity do not significantly affect the quality of audit results.
Practical and Theoretical contribution/Originality: Currently, the Tulungagung Regency Inspectorate was asked to conduct a re-audit because it was known that the results of previous audits differed from field data or facts obtained by the Tulungagung District Attorney team.
Research Limitation: This study was only conducted at the Tulungagung Regency Inspectorate. So that the respondents were limited to 33 examining staff or auditors and P2UPD in the Tulungagung Regency Inspectorate
Determinasi Teori Fraud Hexagon dan Karakteristik Komite Audit dalam Mendeteksi Kecurangan Laporan Keuangan
Authors: Hardirmaningrum Astri , Rohman Abdul
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This study aims to determine the influence of elements from the fraud hexagon theory and characteristics of audit committees on detecting financial statement fraud.
Methodology/approach: The study data uses secondary data sourced from annual reports of manufacturing companies in the basic and chemical industry sebsectors listed on the IDX for 2019-2022 period.
Findings: This study resulted in findings that pressure has a positive effect and opportunity has a negative effect on financial statement fraud. Rationalization, capability, arrogance, collusion and two characteristics of audit committee, namely financial expertise and frequency of audit committee meetings has no effect on financial statement fraud.
Practical and Theoretical contribution/Originality: These findings contribute to researchers and business managers in increasing understanding of the factors that lead to fraud through the hexagon fraud model an characteristics of audit committees, so as to reduce frequency and amount of losses due to fraud. Novelty this study is to use the independent variable characteristics of audit committee, namely financial expertise and frequency of meetings on detecting financial statement fraud.
Research Limitation: The independent variables in this study are only 31.6% which affect the detection of financial statement fraud. While the remaining 68.4% is influenced by other variables outside this research model. In addition, this study also cannot be generalized because only one sub-sector of the company is examined.
Kinship, gift exchange, and the management of diabetes
Authors: Turco Bryen , Agrusa Vito , Abdallah Laila , Meza James P
Published: February 2024

The authors examine the impact of kinship structures on the management poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.
A Study on Mythos Reflected in the Webtoon and Film Versions of Along with the Gods
Authors:   The Society Of Korean Oral Literature, k Charles La Shure
Published: February 2024

Ju Ho-min’s webtoon Along with the Gods (Singwa hamkke), serialized on Naver Webtoons from 2010 to 2012, reimagined Korea’s Buddhist and shamanic mythology regarding the afterlife. It achieved immense popularity and was adapted into two films in 2017 and 2018, both of which performed exceptionally well at the box office. This paper compares the first volume of the webtoon (the “Afterlife Volume”) with the first of these two films (subtitled “The Two Worlds”), examining how the message of the narrative changed in the process of media conversion. The concept of “mythos(μῦθος),” meaning an overriding set of values or worldview that may include individual myths, is borrowed
to examine both the webtoon’s and the film’s messages. The webtoon makes active use of traditional myths with which general readers might not be familiar, and by taking an everyman as its protagonist and depicting the afterlife in a modernized, familiar way it encourages readers to imagine themselves in the same situation that protagonist Kim Ja-hong finds himself in. This gives readers the opportunity to put themselves in Ja-hong’s shoes and reflect on their own sins. In addition, comparisons drawn between this life and the afterlife express social criticism, demonstrating in particular how unreasonable modern society is and how difficult it is for someone to live a decent
life. This is ultimately a criticism of the “success mythos” prevalent in modern Korean society. The film, on the other hand, introduces viewers to a heroic protagonist and depicts the afterlife in a variegated way suited to fantasy or historical drama. In particular, the punishment of sinners in the various hells, the journey undertaken between the hells by the protagonist and the Guardians, the scenes of fights with terrifying creatures or spirits, and the scenes depicting a Guardian chasing and fighting a vengeful spirit all present spectacles worthy of a blockbuster film. This spectacle may function to immerse the viewer in the film, but it also presents an obstacle to the viewer putting themselves in the protagonist’s shoes. In addition, the film’s final message of “forgiveness” and “love” perpetuates the modern mythos of motherhood seen in concepts such as “wise mother, good wife.” It is unlikely that this mythos was expressed intentionally; more likely, it simply shows that it still exists implicitly in Korean society, and it emerged as the filmmakers attempted to heighten viewer empathy for the characters.
Defluoridation using pinecone-based activated carbon: Adsorption isotherm, kinetics, regeneration, and co-ions effect investigation
Authors: Bhomick Parimal , Supong Aola , Sema Akito , Sinha Dipak
Published: February 2024

In this work, cheap and locally available pinecones of Pinus kiseya were used as a precursor to prepare activated carbon using single-step KOH activation for the removal of fluoride from water. The prepared activated carbon?s BET surface area, and total pore volume, were determined as 972.13 m2 g-1 and 0.469 cm3 g-1, respectively. Batch adsorption studies were evaluated at different contact times, solution pH, adsorbent dose and concentration to obtain the optimum conditions for maximum adsorption. The adsorption data were fitted with the isotherm models (Langmuir, Freundlich ad Temkin isotherm model) and the adsorption kinetic models. The experimental data were found to best fit using the Langmuir isotherm which confirmed the formation of a monolayer coverage with a maximum adsorption capacity of 2.845 m2 g-1. The adsorption kinetics was well described by the pseudo-second-order model. A study on the effects of co-existing ions showed that fluoride adsorption capacity was observed to decrease in the order: CO3 2- > SO4 2- > NO3 - > Cl-. The regeneration studies were investigated to determine the reusability of the spent adsorbent. In summary, these findings demonstrated substantial evidence that the activated carbon can be prepared from P. kiseya cones as an eco-friendly adsorbent for the removal of ions such as fluoride from water.