bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A double whammy: The association between comorbidities and severe dengue among adult patients—A matched case-control study
Authors: Ng Wei Yao , Atan Rafidah , Mohd Yunos Nor’azim , bin Md Kamal Adam Harrish , Roslan Mohd Hariz , Quah Kai Yuan , Teh Kai Xuan , Zaid Masliza , Kassim Mahazir , Mariapun Jeevitha , Ngim Chin Fang , Dhanoa Amreeta , Yeo Tsin Wen
Published: September 2022

Background

Dengue infection is the most prevalent mosquito-borne viral infection globally. Concurrently, there has also been an upsurge of non-communicable comorbidities. We aimed to investigate the association between these comorbidities and the development of severe dengue.

Methods

We performed a retrospective, case-control study involving 117 cases with severe dengue and 351 controls with non-severe dengue; matched according to gender, age (+/- 5 years old), and admission date (+/- 2 weeks). We analyzed the data using conditional odds ratio (cOR) and adjusted conditional odds ratio (AcOR) using univariate and multivariable conditional logistic regression respectively.

Results

Six main comorbidities namely obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, chronic pulmonary disease, and ischemic heart disease were observed among cases and controls. Multivariable conditional logistic regression model found only hypertension to be independently associated with the development of severe dengue (ACOR 2.46; 95% CI:1.09–5.53). Among symptoms at presentation, lethargy, vomiting, bleeding manifestations, and abdominal pain were associated with increased odds of severe dengue, although the associations were not statistically significant. Headache (ACOR: 0:32; 95% CI: 0.21–0.51) and skin rash (ACOR: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.22–0.81) were associated with significantly lower odds of severe dengue. Severe dengue patients were also found to have significantly higher white cell count, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase on admission, while platelet and albumin were significantly lower compared to non-severe dengue patients.

Conclusions

Our study found a significant association between hypertension and the development of severe dengue in adult patients. For clinical practice, this finding suggests that dengue patients with underlying hypertension warrant closer clinical monitoring for deterioration. The association between significant derangement in various laboratory parameters and severe dengue as shown in this study is in keeping with previous reports. While further substantiation by larger prospective studies will be desirable, this association may serve to inform the dengue triaging process.
Spatial modeling and ecological suitability of monkeypox disease in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Arotolu Temitope Emmanuel , Afe Ayoola Ebenezer , Wang HaoNing , Lv JiaNing , Shi Kun , Huang LiYa , Wang XiaoLong
Published: September 2022

The reemergence of monkeypoxvirus (MPXV) in 2017 after about 39 years of no reported cases in Nigeria, and the recent incidence in countries such as the United States of America, United Kingdom, Singapore, and Israel which have been reportedly linked with travelers from Africa, have heightened concern that MPXV may have emerged to occupy the vacant ecological and immunological niche created by the extinct smallpox virus. This study was carried out to identify environmental conditions and areas that are environmentally suitable (risky areas) for MPXV in southern Nigeria. One hundred and sixteen (116) spatially unique MPXV occurrence data from 2017–2021 and corresponding environmental variables were spatially modeled by a maximum entropy algorithm to evaluate the contribution of the variables to the distribution of the viral disease. A variance inflation analysis was adopted to limit the number of environmental variables and minimize multicollinearity. The five variables that contributed to the suitability model for MPXV disease are precipitation of driest quarter (47%), elevation (26%), human population density (17%), minimum temperature in December (7%), and maximum temperature in March (3%). For validation, our model had a high AUC value of 0.92 and standard deviation of 0.009 indicating that it had excellent ability to predict the suitable areas for monkeypox disease. Categorized risk classes across southern states was also identified. A total of eight states were predicted to be at high risk of monkeypox outbreak occurrence. These findings can guide policymakers in resources allocation and distribution to effectively implement targeted control measures for MPXV outbreaks in southern Nigeria.
Co-production of a nature-based intervention for children with ADHD study (CONIFAS): Protocol for co-production phases
Authors: Armitt Hannah A. , Kingsley Ellen N. , Attwell Leah , White Piran C. L. , Woolley Kat , Garside Megan , Green Natasha , Hussey Michael , Coventry Peter A.
Published: September 2022

Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can face difficulties with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can impact many areas of their lives, including their educational attainment and social and emotional wellbeing. Involvement in nature-based activities can reduce these difficulties and improve wellbeing, but there are limited resources for supporting children with this diagnosis to access these approaches and no nature-based interventions designed with and for this group. This protocol describes a co-production study in which children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder aged 5–11 years old, their parents/guardians, and professionals will attend a series of workshops to share their knowledge to co-produce a new nature-based intervention for this population of children. We aim to understand how the children’s’ experiences of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder may affect their interactions with nature, identify how activity in and with nature may help with symptom reduction and general wellbeing, and co-produce an intervention for families which applies our learning. The result of this study will be the designed intervention and insights into how children and young people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder interact with nature. The prototype intervention will then undergo feasibility testing in a future study.

Trail registration: NIHR203043; ISRCTN11763460.
Knowledge transfer of eLearning objects: Lessons learned from an intercontinental capacity building project
Authors: Lim Hooi Min , Ng Chirk Jenn , Wharrad Heather , Lee Yew Kong , Teo Chin Hai , Lee Ping Yein , Krishnan Kuhan , Abu Hassan Zahiruddin Fitri , Yong Phelim Voon Chen , Yap Wei Hsum , Sellappans Renukha , Ayub Enna , Hassan Nurhanim , Shariff Ghazali Sazlina , Jahn Kassim Puteri Shanaz , Nasharuddin Nurul Amelina , Idris Faridah , Taylor Michael , Poussa Cherry , Karlgren Klas , Stathakarou Natalia , Mordt Petter , Konstantinidis Stathis
Published: September 2022

Background

Effective knowledge transfer of eLearning objects can hasten the adoption and dissemination of technology in teaching and learning. However, challenges exist which hinder inter-organisational knowledge transfer, particularly across continents. The ACoRD project aimed to transfer knowledge on digital learning development from UK/EU (provider) to Malaysian (receiver) higher education institutions (HEIs). This study explores the challenges encountered during the knowledge transfer process and lessons learned.

Methods

This is a qualitative study involving both the knowledge providers and receivers in focus group discussions (n = 25). Four focus group discussions were conducted in the early (n = 2) and mid-phase (n = 2) of the project by trained qualitative researchers using a topic guide designed to explore experiences and activities representing knowledge transfer in multi-institutional and multi-cultural settings. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and checked. The transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Five main themes emerged from this qualitative study: mismatched expectations between providers and receivers; acquiring new knowledge beyond the professional "comfort zone"; challenges in cascading newly acquired knowledge to colleagues and management; individual and organisational cultural differences; and disruption of knowledge transfer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need to create a conducive platform to facilitate continuous, timely and bi-directional needs assessment and feedback; this should be done in the early phase of the knowledge transfer process. The challenges and strategies identified in this study could guide more effective knowledge transfer between organisations and countries.
First wave COVID-19 pandemic in Senegal: Epidemiological and clinical characteristics
Authors: Diarra Maryam , Barry Aliou , Dia Ndongo , Diop Mamadou , Sonko Ibrahima , Sagne Samba , Sarr Fatoumata Diene , Talla Cheikh , Tall Adama , Faye Joseph , Diop Boly , Diagne Cheikh Tidiane , Gaye Aboubacry , Diallo Amadou , Mbaye Rose , Cisse Mamadou , Taieb Fabien , Faye Oumar , Lakhe Ndeye Aissatou , Papa Samba Ba , Diallo Khardiata , Fall Ndeye Maguette , Badiane Aboubakar Sadikh , Fortes Louise , Diop Moustapha , Thioub Daouda , Ly Alioune Badara , Faye Ousmane , Seydi Moussa , Bousso Abdoulaye , Sall Amadou A. , Loucoubar Cheikh ,   Senegalese District Medical Officers
Published: September 2022

Background

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has spread from China to the rest of the world. Africa seems less impacted with lower number of cases and deaths than other continents. Senegal recorded its first case on March 2, 2020. We present here data collected from March 2 to October 31, 2020 in Senegal.

Methods

Socio-demographic, epidemiological, clinical and virological information were collected on suspected cases. To determine factors associated with diagnosed infection, symptomatic disease and death, multivariable binary logistic regression and log binomial models were used. Epidemiological parameters such as the reproduction number and growth rate were estimated.

Results

67,608 suspected cases were tested by the IPD laboratories (13,031 positive and 54,577 negative). All age categories were associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, but also patients having diabetes or hypertension or other cardiovascular diseases. With diagnosed infection, patients over 65 years and those with hypertension and cardiovascular disease and diabetes were highly associated with death. Patients with co-morbidities were associated with symptomatic disease, but only the under 15 years were not associated with. Among infected, 27.67% were asymptomatic (40.9% when contacts were systematically tested; 12.11% when only symptomatic or high-risk contacts were tested). Less than 15 years-old were mostly asymptomatic (63.2%). Dakar accounted for 81.4% of confirmed cases. The estimated mean serial interval was 5.57 (± 5.14) days. The average reproduction number was estimated at 1.161 (95%CI: 1.159–1.162), the growth rate was 0.031 (95%CI: 0.028–0.034) per day.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that factors associated with symptomatic COVID-19 and death are advanced age (over 65 years-old) and comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Skin lesion classification using multi-resolution empirical mode decomposition and local binary pattern
Authors: Samsudin Siti Salbiah , Arof Hamzah , Harun Sulaiman Wadi , Abdul Wahab Ainuddin Wahid , Idris Mohd Yamani Idna
Published: September 2022

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in many parts of the world. As skin cancers start as skin lesions, it is important to identify precancerous skin lesions early. In this paper we propose an image based skin lesion identification to classify seven different classes of skin lesions. First, Multi Resolution Empirical Mode Decomposition (MREMD) is used to decompose each skin lesion image into a few Bidimensional intrinsic mode functions (BIMF). MREMD is a simplified bidimensional empirical mode decomposition (BEMD) that employs downsampling and upsampling (interpolation) in the upper and lower envelope formation to speed up the decomposition process. A few BIMFs are extracted from the image using MREMD. The next step is to locate the lesion or the region of interest (ROI) in the image using active contour. Then Local Binary Pattern (LBP) is applied to the ROI of the image and its first BIMF to extract a total of 512 texture features from the lesion area. In the training phase, texture features of seven different classes of skin lesions are used to train an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) classifier. Altogether, 490 images from HAM10000 dataset are used to train the ANN. Then the accuracy of the approach is evaluated using 315 test images that are different from the training images. The test images are taken from the same dataset and each test image contains one type of lesion from the seven types that are classified. From each test image, 512 texture features are extracted from the lesion area and introduced to the classifier to determine its class. The proposed method achieves an overall classification rate of 98.9%.
Risk variants of obesity associated genes demonstrate BMI raising effect in a large cohort
Authors: Saqlain Muhammad , Khalid Madiha , Fiaz Muhammad , Saeed Sadia , Mehmood Raja Asad , Mobeen Zafar Muhammad , Fatima Tahzeeb , Bosco Pesquero João , Maglio Cristina , Valadi Hadi , Nawaz Muhammad , Kaukab Raja Ghazala
Published: September 2022

Obesity is highly polygenic disease where several genetic variants have been reportedly associated with obesity in different ethnicities of the world. In the current study, we identified the obesity risk or protective association and BMI raising effect of the minor allele of adiponectin, C1Q and collagen domain containing (ADIPOQ), cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CEPT), FTO alpha-ketoglutarate dependent dioxygenase (FTO), leptin (LEP), and leptin receptor (LEPR) genes in a large cohort stratified into four BMI-based body weight categories i.e., normal weight, lean, over-weight, and obese. Based on selected candidate genetic markers, the genotyping of all study subjects was performed by PCR assays, and genotypes and allele frequencies were calculated. The minor allele frequencies (MAFs) of all genetic markers were computed for total and BMI-based body weight categories and compared with MAFs of global and South Asian (SAS) populations. Genetic associations of variants with obesity risk were calculated and BMI raising effect per copy of the minor allele were estimated. The genetic variants with higher MAFs in obese BMI group were; rs2241766 (G = 0.43), rs17817449 (G = 0.54), rs9939609 (A = 0.51), rs1421085 (C = 0.53), rs1558902 (A = 0.63), and rs1137101 (G = 0.64) respectively. All these variants were significantly associated with obesity (OR = 1.03–4.42) and showed a high BMI raising effect (β = 0.239–0.31 Kg/m2) per copy of the risk allele. In contrast, the MAFs of three variants were higher in lean-normal BMI groups; rs3764261 A = 0.38, rs9941349 T = 0.43, and rs7799039 G = 0.40–0.43). These variants showed obesity protective associations (OR = 0.68–0.76), and a BMI lowering effect per copy of the protective allele (β = -0.103–0.155 Kg/m2). The rs3764261 variant also showed significant and positive association with lean body mass (OR = 2.38, CI = 1.30–4.34). Overall, we report six genetic variants of ADIPOQ, FTO and LEPR genes as obesity-risk markers and a CETP gene variant as lean mass/obesity protective marker in studied Pakistani cohort.
A member of the tryptophan-rich protein family is required for efficient sequestration of Plasmodium berghei schizonts
Authors: Gabelich Julie-Anne , Grützke Josephine , Kirscht Florian , Popp Oliver , Matz Joachim M. , Dittmar Gunnar , Rug Melanie , Ingmundson Alyssa
Published: September 2022

Protein export and host membrane remodeling are crucial for multiple Plasmodium species to establish a niche in infected hosts. To better understand the contribution of these processes to successful parasite infection in vivo, we sought to find and characterize protein components of the intraerythrocytic Plasmodium berghei-induced membrane structures (IBIS) that form in the cytoplasm of infected erythrocytes. We identified proteins that immunoprecipitate with IBIS1, a signature member of the IBIS in P. berghei-infected erythrocytes. In parallel, we also report our data describing proteins that co-precipitate with the PTEX (Plasmodium translocon of exported proteins) component EXP2. To validate our findings, we examined the location of three candidate IBIS1-interactors that are conserved across multiple Plasmodium species, and we found they localized to IBIS in infected red blood cells and two further colocalized with IBIS1 in the liver-stage parasitophorous vacuole membrane. Successful gene deletion revealed that these two tryptophan-rich domain-containing proteins, termed here IPIS2 and IPIS3 (for intraerythrocytic Plasmodium-induced membrane structures), are required for efficient blood-stage growth. Erythrocytes infected with IPIS2-deficient schizonts in particular fail to bind CD36 as efficiently as wild-type P. berghei-infected cells and therefore fail to effectively sequester out of the circulating blood. Our findings support the idea that intra-erythrocytic membrane compartments are required across species for alterations of the host erythrocyte that facilitate interactions of infected cells with host tissues.
Reconstructing cinematic activities in the early twentieth century: Gold Coast (Ghana)
Authors: Danso Augustine
Published: September 2022

In the history of African cinema, there is a nexus between films and the colonial imperial project. That is, products of cinema and cinematic practices shaped the process of colonialism in the specific case of Africa. Predicated largely on archival documents, this study explores how cinema was regulated in the major towns and cities in the Gold Coast during the colonial era. Ghanaian cinema has a considerably long historical narrative, however, much of what is known about the history of cinema in Ghana, particularly, on film screening, censorship and exhibition practices, is rather little. Thus, it is with this gap that this study attempts to fill and make a useful contribution to Ghanaian film history. The colonial experience set the basis for cinematic houses, film production, censorship, distribution and ideological concerns in African cinema. This study is framed within the relationship between cinema and history, with a specific focus on Ghana. This article concludes that while film exhibition, censorship and licensing stimulated the growth of art, particularly cinema, they further inflated the colonial imperial agenda in the Gold Coast.
On the edges of consciousnesses: Messaging between species
Authors: Keski-Korsu Mari
Published: September 2022

Consciousness is often defined as an experience of the world, but its definitions vary and stir up controversy. It is described through the vocabulary of philosophy, psychology, neuroscience and spirituality, to name but a few fields. Other-than-human consciousness has long been considered non-existent, a notion that has only recently changed as other-than-humans have been found to possess consciousness and a capacity for intentional behaviour (Low 2012: 2). This article presents perspectives on interspecies communication to propose that various species have consciousness and that communication between human and other-than-human consciousnesses is possible. My research aims to investigate the concept of consciousness and intuitive interspecies communication by experimenting methods within artistic practice that can foster a more profound understanding of human and other-than-human relations. I use art projects as artistic case studies to substantiate my hypothesis of consciousness being an essential connection for intuitive interspecies communication.
The human being as an engineering problem: Post-biological evolution, transhumanism and philosophical anthropology
Authors: O Brien David
Published: September 2022

The issue of human nature is a perennial question – as obstinate as it is old. Human reflection on the human condition is a defining feature of the experience of being human. In our time, the idea of post-biological evolution, the design paradigm of NBIC-convergence and transhumanism – as a philosophy and a cultural movement – all confront and confound our traditional notions of human nature. Unlike previous challenges to established images of the human being, this re-assessment of human nature has a practical aspect – for technology now seems poised to finally achieve the age-old aspiration of human control over human nature. At its core, the idea of post-biological evolution assumes the human condition as the object of engineering. The problem of the human being thus becomes an engineering problem, approached from an engineering perspective, which – in an essential way – is design orientated. Hence, the idea of the human being that underlies the apprehension of ourselves as such an object of engineering, is of vital significance. As such, this paper argues for the relevance of philosophical anthropology within the post-biological discourse.
On gods, pixies and humans: Biohacking and the genetic imaginary
Authors: Szewczyk Matylda
Published: September 2022

The focal point of my article is the work of biohackers: mainly Josiah Zayner, whose activism as a biohacker, as an artist and a public figure offers an interesting lens through which one can explore the contemporary genetic imaginary and our changing and varied approach to genetic engineering. The framework for this description is set by an analysis of cultural representations of contemporary science and technology, both in documentaries and in works of fiction. In the article, I trace and analyse the ways in which biohackers’ activity is involved with the earlier ideas of cyberculture, most notably with the notion of biological life as information (possible to edit or ‘hack’) and to the image of a ‘hacker’. I recall the popular phrase of ‘playing god’, often quoted in relation to genetic imaginary, mainly as a warning against excessive interventions within nature. The phrase and the warning itself seem to have become insofar more important, as the scale of possible interventions had been raised by the advancement of genetic engineering. Finally, I discuss the relation of art and science in Zayner’s activity, within a broader context of relevant images of artists and scientists and their role within the changing realities of contemporary life. The article does not pretend to fully analyse or even describe the modalities and implication of biohackers’ activity. Its main goal is to shed more light on the current changes in collective imagination related to the rapid development of biotechnology and its cultural understanding. The public presence of biohackers, and especially Zayner’s activity, provides new visions of human agency in nature and of relation between art, science and social practice.
Contamination as collaboration: Being-with in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Żyniewicz Karolina
Published: September 2022

The global pandemic outbreak in 2020 was a disturbing experience for most people worldwide. The primary way of protecting human life was social distancing and lockdown, often forcing people to stay at home. The confinement made the fear and uncertainty grow bigger and bigger. Fortunately, the online connection was still as possible and essential as never before. The text is inspired by a series of remote meetings under the working title Viral Culture: Bio Art and Society, initiated by academic curator Claire Nettleton to put together people working in art&science area. Recordings of the Zoom gatherings complemented by notes and chat transcriptions served as intriguing storage of topics and ideas. This article focuses on the three threads: being-with (other humans, the virus and other non-human actors), caring without touch and the pandemic interpreted as a vast bio art project. All the archived materials, including the present article, will potentially function as historical documents in the future, showing how a specific group of transdisciplinary culture producers dealt with the global crisis in its first phase.
Assessing The Validity Of A Culturally Modified Drinking Motives Questionnaire For Use In Aboriginal Communities.
Authors:   Telethon Kids Institute, Tucker David , Symons Martyn ,   Telethon Kids Institute, Clifton Elaine ,   Telethon Kids Institute, Ramirez Margaret ,   Telethon Kids Institute, Fitzpatrick James ,   Telethon Kids Institute, Walker Roz ,   University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia, Pearson Glenn ,   Telethon Kids Institute, Gray Michelle ,   Telethon Kids Institute, Kirby Gary ,   Mental Health Commission, McBride Nyanda ,   Curtin University, Perth, Australia
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Alcohol related harms disproportionately affect Aboriginal people in Australia. Motives to drink have been identified as the most proximal factor to alcohol consumption. Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the validity of a culturally modified Drinking Motives Questionnaire-Revised (DMQ-R) (Cooper, 1994) with Aboriginal participants. Design: The study was cross sectional, utilising data collected via face-to-face surveys with a sample of adult Aboriginal participants. Participants: A convenience sample of 135 Aboriginal men (n=41) and women (n=94) from the Pilbara Region of Western Australia, who had consumed alcohol in the preceding 12 months. Outcome Measures: The Culturally modified DMQ-R (CDMQ-R) developed in consultation with Aboriginal community researchers and a local Aboriginal Community Reference Group was the primary outcome measure for this study. Results: Confirmatory Factor Analysis indicated the four-factor model of drinking motives as measured by a culturally modified DMQ-R was valid for use with Aboriginal people of the Pilbara region. Conclusions: While most items loaded on the factor solution as hypothesised, there were some minor discrepancies which suggest further modification may be needed. In addition, the reduction of the original five-point scale to a three-point scale created statistical challenges. Future research might seek to further refine the DMQ-R for this population and determine an appropriate method for expanding the response scale incorporating advice from Aboriginal people.
Impact Evaluation of a Central Australian Aboriginal Cultural Awareness Training Program for Health Professionals and Students
Authors:   Flinders University, Rissel Chris , Liddle Lynette ,   Flinders University, Ryder Courtney ,   Flinders University, Wilson Annabelle ,   College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bower Madeleine ,   Flinders University, Richards Barbara ,   Flinders University
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the impact of a Central Australian cultural awareness training program for health care staff. A mixed methods approach was used. Program participants completed a baseline and post-program questionnaire, which included an attitude scale assessing cultural safety, critical thinking and transformative unlearning, and open-ended questions. An online follow-up survey two months later repeated these questions. Mean scale scores were compared using paired and unpaired t-tests. Qualitative data were analysed thematically. Baseline scale mean was 45.7. At post-program it had statistically significantly increased to 47.3, using both the paired (p<0.01) and unpaired t-test (p=<0.03). By the time of the two-month follow-up it had decreased to 42.2. This was not statistically different from the baseline score with a paired (n=11) t-test (p=<0.37), however the difference was statistically significant with an unpaired t-test (p=<0.01) which included an additional eight respondents. Qualitative feedback was consistently positive. Many respondents learnt new information about the negative effects of colonisation on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, and how this continues to affect current health. Learning about Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultures, kinship relationships and systems, and communication styles was identified as directly relevant to work practices. A cultural education program produced positive short-term changes in attitudes and was highly valued by participants. However, it is unclear if these changes are maintained in the medium-term.
Ultra Trace Level Detection and Quantification of Identified Genotoxic Impurity Ethyl
(1R,5R,6R)-7-(tert-butyl)-5-(pentan-3-yloxy)-7-azabicyclo[4.1.0]hept-3-ene-3-carboxylate in
Oseltamivir Phosphate Drug Substance by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy
Authors: Puppala Ravi Kumar , Subbaiah Nelaturi , Maheswaramma K. Sesha
Published: September 2022

A new rapid run time LC-MS method was developed and validated for detection (0.03 ppm) and
quantification (0.1 ppm) in ultra-trace level of genotoxic impurity (GTI) ethyl-(1R,5R,6R)-7-(tertbutyl)-
5-(pentan-3-yloxy)-7-azabicyclo[4.1.0]hept-3-ene-3-carboxylate in oseltamivir phosphate active
pharmaceutical ingredient (API). The method is price effective, time redeemable and capable to confirm
the parent and daughter ion masses through mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry for
further fragmentation. An isocratic program and YMC Pack Pro C4 reverse phase column (150 mm ×
4.6 mm × 3.0 μm) was used to achieve separation between oseltamivir phosphate and ethyl-(1R,5R,6R)-
7-(tert-butyl)-5-(pentan-3-yloxy)-7-azabicyclo[4.1.0]hept-3-ene-3-carboxylate impurity. Mobile
phase-A used was 0.01 M ammonium acetate in water and mobile phase-B used was acetonitrile in
the ration of 40:60 v/v. Diluent was used methanol. The chromatographic conditions were used, injection
volume: 20 μL, flow rate: 1.0 mL/min, oven temperature: 50 ºC, auto sampler: 5 °C and run time 8.0
min. The detection and quantification levels found at 0.03 and 0.1 ppm, respectively. Ethyl (1R,5R,6R)-
7-(tert-butyl)-5-(pentan-3-yloxy)-7-azabicyclo[4.1.0]hept-3-ene-3-carboxylate impurity is linear from
0.1 to 15 ppm levels with regression coefficient 0.9994. The recoveries were found in the range of
93.8% to 105.0%.
In vivo Sub Acute Toxicity Studies of Zinc Oxide and Silver/Selenium Doped
Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles after Oral Ingestion in Swiss Albino Mice
Authors: Kumar Pandi Suresh , Nesaraj Arputharaj Samson
Published: September 2022

The nanoparticles, such as ZnO, Ag doped ZnO (Zn0.80Ag0.20O1-δ) and Se doped ZnO (Zn0.80Se0.20O1-δ)
were prepared by chemical synthesis route. In order to understand their sub-acute toxicity level in
animal system, these nanoparticles were suspended in water and administered orally for 14 consecutive
days to Swiss albino mice. At the end of 14th day, the animals were killed via cervical dislocation
method. The examination of their serum and the organs, viz. liver and kidney was carried out. This
comprises of resolving of serum biochemical levels and organ indices. A significant elevation of γ-GT,
AST, ALT and LDH levels in mice when exposed with Ag/Se doped ZnO nanparticles in comparison
with ZnO nanoparticles was found out. The results of enzymatic/non-enzymatic assays (protein, ROS,
LPO, LDH, NO, GSH and GPx) inferred that the ZnO based nanoparticles treated mice group has
shown higher levels of free radicals inside the cell and caused severe tissue damage. From AAS studies,
the accumulation of zinc in the liver in mice was noticed. The result of western blotting analysis was
also reported.
An Efficient One Pot Multicomponent Synthesis of Dihydro Pyrazolyl Bisthiazole
Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents and their Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Varluvothu Anjaneyulu , Vaarla Krishnaiah , Kesharwani Rajesh Kumar , Leelavathi Panaganti
Published: September 2022

A novel series of dihydropyrazolyl bisthiazoles were synthesized through simple reaction conditions
via one pot multicomponent reaction of 2-bromo-1-(4-methyl-2-phenyl thiazol-5-yl)ethan-1-one,
thiosemicarbazide and chalcones in the presence of sodium hydroxide in ethanol under reflux condition.
The reaction generates two potential five membered heterocylic pharmacophores i.e. Hantzsch thiazole
and dihydropyrazole in one step through simple operation, in shorter reaction time with high yields.
The newly synthesized compounds were well characterized by IR, 1H, 13C NMR and mass spectral
data. All the newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their anticancer activity against human
cancer cell lines and calculated their binding energy values with respect to 3ert protein. Some of the
compounds exhibited excellent activity against MCF-7 cancer cell line and studied molecular interaction
of probable target protein, human estrogen receptor alpha protein (3ert.pdb) using docking simulation.
Elemental and Thermogravimetric Analysis of

Plastic-Paper Composites as Refuse-Derived Fuels for Energy Generation
Authors: Ejilah Robinson , Gaji Mohammed , Isah Mohammed
Published: September 2022

Plastic and paper waste samples were collected – as received, dried and sorted manually into sub-fractions, pulverized and homogenized in prescribed mixing ratio by weight, and compacted into briquettes. The elemental analysis to determine the carbon (C), hydrogen (H), nitrogen (N), sulphur (S), and oxygen (O) content of the samples was carried out in accordance with ASTM D3176-15 standard using an element analyzer. While, thermogravimetric tests were performed on the samples in a thermal analyser according to IUPAC procedure. The results revealed that; plastic–paper composite samples in the group exhibited a lower elemental carbon and hydrogen than the PL100 (Plastic 100% by weight) benchmark; the tested composite samples displayed a comparably higher presence of elemental oxygen, with exception of the composite sample of PL 75 + PA 25 (Plastic 75% by weight and Paper 25% by weight); it was evident that plastic-paper composite samples with PL 75 + PA 25 (Plastic 75% by weight and Paper 25% by weight); PL 50 + PA 50 (Plastic 50% by weight and Paper 50% by weight), and PL 75 + PA 25 (Plastic 25% by weight and Paper 75% ) exhibited 0.08 %, 0.04 %, and 0% increase in sulphur content, while for sample with PA 100 (Paper 100% by weight) show a decrease in elemental sulphur by 0.04% wt. Based on the peak temperature at the maximum weight loss rate indicating sample combustibility, samples PL100 with peak DSC temperatures (417.08- 474.62
oC), PL50+PA50 for Plastic 50% by weight and Paper 50% by weight sample (383.27- 441.47
oC) and PL75+PA25 (373.70- 426.41
oC) are more combustible than samples PL25+PA75 (322.52+ 402.05
oC) and PA100 (367.48
oC), and would be recommended for use as refuse-derived fuel for on account of their energy recovery potentials.
Integrative Theory of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
Diseases
Authors: Sheppard Joseph Z.
Published: September 2022

This is a theoretical examination of an integrative approachfor explaining Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson's Disease compatible with theastrocyte hypothesis that is inclusive of the main sub-presentations.
Specification and regulation of the hypothalamic oxytocinergic system
Authors: Aznar-Escolano Beatriz , Portales Montes Adrian , Royo Cantabrana Maria , Madrigal Verdu Pilar , Jurado Sandra
Published: September 2022

The oxytocinergic and vasopressinergic systems regulate vital homeostatic functions as well as complex behaviors like social interaction. Despite their central neuromodulatory action, many details regarding the specification of the oxytocinergic and vasopressinergic circuits as well as the regulation of oxytocin (OXT) and vasopressin (AVP) release in the Central Nervous System remain unknown. Our laboratory has implemented a multidisciplinary approach combining genetic tagging for assaying OXT-containing vesicle dynamics and exocytosis, together with light-sheet ultraresolution microscopy and iDISCO+ tissue clarification methods for 3D circuit reconstruction (Madrigal & Jurado, 2021), in order to advance our current understanding of oxytocinergic and vasopressin function in modulating neuronal networks. We currently focus on analyzing the neurodevelopment of these systems and the dynamic properties of OXT and AVP release in the hypothalamus.Our results indicate a profound remodeling of the oxytocinergic and vasopressinergic systems during early postnatal stages that involves a switch of neuropeptide expression, which is recapitulated during vital experiences like aging or motherhood. Furthermore, OXT dynamics and release properties suggest distinct OXT-vesicle pools in the somatodendritic compartment of hypothalamic neurons which could be recruited upon diverse patterns of neuronal activity to orchestrate different aspects of behavior.
Leadership theories traits into the situational leadership model
Authors: Funk Philippe
Published: September 2022

Many do not know what to look for in a leader. In order to be a successful leader, you need many traits and skills. For example, leaders need to be assertive, empathic, and have high self-esteem. They must also be conscientious and adaptable. However, they must also be able to think strategically with a foresight of the company's future success or project at hand. More important than their traits is how they are expressed through their leadership style – what works best for each situation. The situational leadership model is a framework for understanding how leaders can best adapt to their environment. The situational leadership model is based on the assumption that a leader's behavior will be influenced by the situation in which they are placed and that this influence may vary according to task complexity, uncertainty, or urgency. A leader's leadership style then changes depending on the situation they find themselves in. Situational Leadership traits include adaptability: The ability to quickly change your behavior and adapt to the situation at hand.
The social, political, economic effects on elderly health care in Palestine
Authors: El Jabari Carol , Nawajah Inad , Takruri Adel , Radwan Mahmoud , Hassan Sahar
Published: September 2022

Background: The elderly population in Palestine is small but faces many obstacles and gaps in healthcare in this low-middle income country. They are generally underserved, many living in poverty, facing difficulties in access to care and are a less well educated group of people.

Aim: To analyze the effects on access and utilization of primary healthcare services by the elderly.

Method: This study was part of a larger survey conducted in Palestine from Oct 2021-February 2022. Quantitative data was collected by trained interviewers using notebooks in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, n=76. SPSS Version 26 was used for analysis.

Results: There is a less well educated population with at least 75% of the elderly reported having a chronic health problem. They all reported having health insurance although meeting health care costs and out of pocket expense was a burden for at least 47%. Access to healthcare services such as acquiring a permit from the Israeli occupation forces or travelling long distances to reach care centers was a hindrance.

Conclusion: Education and health are intertwined. By ensuring the population is educated, a sound health system is in place including universal insurance, policy makers and researchers working hand in hand will provide for more preparation for the growing populations needs while also serving to reduce inequities in health.
Konstruierte Gleichheiten
Authors: Radosh-Hinder Silke
Published: September 2022

Interreligiöse Initiativen sind in der Lage, über eigenständige und spezielle Aushandlungsprozesse enge Beziehungsgewebe zu entwickeln. Mit Lachen, Geselligkeit, Alltagskommunikation, dem Verhandeln religiöser Inhalte u.a. stellen sie kommunikative Verbindungen her. Silke Radosh-Hinder untersucht diese Prozesse mit Rückgriff auf Hannah Arendt, Jürgen Habermas und Hubert Knoblauch. Sie argumentiert dafür, dass sich die etablierten Bindungen unter dem Begriff der politischen Freundschaft als neues Paradigma interreligiöser Interaktionen fassen lassen, und diskutiert dies im Kontext von Public Theology.
Analysis of Teachers’ Competences for Industry 4.0 Subjects: A Case of Thai Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Lima Rui M. , Sousa Rui M. , Costa Lino , Jesus Cristiano , Mesquita Diana , Kengpol Athakorn , Meethom Warapoj
Published: September 2022

The era of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) requires technology and engineering higher education institutions to provide their students with the competences inherent to this evolution. This requires teaching staff training, but first, naturally, teachers’ level of competences must be assessed. The objective of this work is to assess the current level of teaching staff self-perceived competences related to product, process, and production in the I4.0 Era, using a tailor-made questionnaire. Additionally, the work aims to evaluate the relation between academic degrees and years of experience, with the level of self-perceived competences. In terms of methodology, the development of the questionnaire’s items was based on the Acatech framework and existing I4.0 courses. The questionnaire was validated through the following steps: 1) think-aloud procedures with 4 teaching staff, and 2) test and retest statistics validation, developed with approximately 30 teaching staff from the referred institutions. Then, the questionnaire was applied to more than 200 teaching staff. Two I4.0 areas showed a lower level of self-perceived competence: Data Analytics and Digital Manufacturing. It became evident that the teaching staff, regardless of their level of experience or academic degree, may benefit from organizational and people management training including processes and techniques related to I4.0.
Le Processus De DDR De Deuxième Génération De l’ONU : Une Étude De Cas Sur La Syrie
Authors: Akyar Mehmet Sadık
Published: September 2022

Le processus de DDR (Désarmement, Démobilisation, Réintégration) des Nations Unies (ONU) est mis en œuvre depuis les années 2000. Son but est de veiller à ce que doit être fait de façon systématique pour assurer la paix et la stabilité dans les pays et régions en conflit, notamment dans les cas de guerre et de troubles civils, conformément au droit international et aux règles de l’ONU. En général, il s’agit d’un processus mené après les opérations de maintien de la paix (MP). Toutefois, il peut également être appliqué de façon indépendante. Après la fin de la Guerre froide, un certain nombre de sujets ont été introduits au lendemain de la guerre civile dans l’ex-Yougoslavie. L’application du DDR de deuxième génération (2GDDR) est apparue au fil du temps. Pour être plus précis, le DDR est né de l’adaptation de ses processus et activités aux conditions du pays à appliquer. Les chances de réussite du DDR dépendent en grande partie de la prévention des conflits et, dans une certaine mesure, de l’environnement sécuritaire dans le pays concerné. En d’autres termes, après avoir fourni un environnement sécurisé, il est plus facile d’assurer l’environnement ciblé de paix et de stabilité avec des applications DDR. La Syrie qui traverse une guerre civile depuis près de 12 ans, en présente un bon exemple. En conséquence, le problème des réfugiés et le problème de la stabilité se sont posés et existent toujours dans tout le pays. L’ONU a garanti l’intégrité territoriale de la Syrie avec la résolution 2254. Dans cette étude, nous examinons les questions liées à la mise en œuvre du processus de DDR de deuxième génération de l’ONU en Syrie, ainsi que des modélisations apportées / proposées à la mise en œuvre du processus. À la suite de l’examen de ces modèles, nous tentons de déterminer quel est le modèle le plus approprié pour la Syrie.
Treacher Collins syndrome – a case report
Authors: Fraszczyk-Tousty Magda , Jankowska Agata , Tousty Joanna , Tousty Piotr , Łoniewska Beata
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Treacher Collins syndrome (TCS), also known as mandibulofacial dysostosis and Franceschetti-Zwahlen- Klein syndrome, is an autosomal dominant disorder of soft tissue and the craniofacial bones. In most cases, TCS is the result of a mutation in the TCOF1 gene. The incidence is estimated to be between 1/10,000 and 1/50,000 live births. Our purpose was to describe a case report of patient with TCS born in the Department of Neonatology at the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin (Poland) and his family with short review of literature.

Case presentation

Clinical abnormalities which were found after birth mainly affect the head – hypoplasia of the cheek bones and the zygomatic bones, micrognation, deformed auricles with undeveloped external auditory canals, retrognathia of the mandible, cleft hard and soft palate and narrow palpebral fissure.

Conclusions

The treatment of children with TCS is long-term. Patients require a series of reconstructive and plastic surgical procedures. Our patient presented the complete form of TCS. There are multiple surgeries awaiting him, which, eventually, will improve his quality of life.
Effects of weight-bearing vs. non-weight-bearing endurance exercise on reducing body fat and inflammatory markers in obese females
Authors: Andiana Olivia , Welis Wilda , Taufik Muhamad Syamsul , Widiastuti  , Siregar Abdul Hakim , Raharjo Slamet
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Endurance exercise is an effective strategy for maintaining an anti-inflammatory environment and weight management. However, the effect of this type of exercise on decreasing body fat and TNF-α levels and increasing adiponectin levels is controversial. The aims of this study was to prove the effects of weight-bearing vs. non-weight-bearing endurance exercise on reducing body fat and inflammatory markers in obese females.

Methods

24 obese adolescents were recruited from female students from the State University of Malang. The interventions given in this study were weight-bearing endurance exercise (WBEE), and non-weight-bearing endurance exercise (NWBEE). Serum TNF-α levels and serum adiponectin levels were evaluated using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical analysis techniques use paired sample T-test with a significant level of 5%.

Results

Results of the statistical analysis show that the average body fat (PBF, FM, FFM) and TNF-α levels before endurance exercise vs. after endurance exercise in both types of exercise experienced a significant decrease (p≤0.05), while average adiponectin levels in both types of exercise experienced a significant increase before endurance exercise vs. after endurance exercise (p≤0.001).

Conclusions

In general, it can be concluded that weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing endurance exercise with moderate-intensity for 40 min/exercise session reduce body fat and TNF-α levels and increase adiponectin levels as a marker of inflammation in obese female.
Optimization of target acquisition and sorting for object-finding multi-manipulator based on open MV vision
Authors: Dong Na , Meng Fanjing , Raffik Rasheed , Shabaz Mohammad , Neware Rahul , Krishnan Sangeetha , Na Kama
Published: September 2022

To optimize the mechanical arm target capture and classification of the open multiple-view (MV) visualization program, the open MV visualization programming and deep learning detection method combined with the different capture strategies of robotic arm, a method to extend the research is proposed. For the proposed sorting robot’s multi-cargo grasping, the analysis required to detect a wide variety of goods in a storage environment that lacks color or structural features uniformly. On the basis of SSD target detection method regression, the object’s 3D position information is reconstructed by default preselected cell selection. 3D coordinate accuracy of binocular navigation system was verified as 8% when the target cargo location distance is more than 5 cm, and binoculars matching success rate is 89.7%. The success rate of Sorting and hoarding is increased from 6% to 85% by adding a change to the scoring points of the target products of uneven quality, with this we have achieved efficient and accurate import.