bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential Environmental Impact of Mycelium Composites on African Communities
Authors: Eichhorn Stephen , Akromah Stefania , Chandarana Neha , Rowlandson Jemma
Published: February 2024

The ecological and economic benefits of mycelium composites offer a promising opportunity for supporting sustainable development in Africa. This study focuses on assessing the environmental impact of mycelium composites for building and construction (MCBs) by conducting a life cycle assessment (LCA) in the context of Africa. It is demonstrated that the potential environmental impact of MCBs is substantially influenced by the use and source of electrical power for autoclaves, incubators, and ovens, making the culturing and post-processing phases the major environmental hotspots. The impact of MCB production is also relative to the energy mix of specific countries, being higher in countries that rely on fossil fuel energy (e.g., South Africa) and lower in those that rely more on renewable sources (e.g., Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC). Furthermore, the impact of MCB production is found to be sensitive to travel distance, suggesting that situating production facilities closer to agricultural, agro-industrial, and/or forestry waste sources could be more beneficial than interregional sourcing, for example. It is also demonstrated that MCBs have the potential to be a more ecologically sustainable alternative to some conventional construction materials (e.g., concrete) over an entire life cycle. Based on the insights obtained from this LCA, some recommendations have been proposed to address potential environmental repercussions pre-emptively and proactively: this is especially crucial for countries (mostly in the Global South) that may be challenged in resolving catastrophic environmental degradation due to financial constraints. Furthermore, with the rapid expansion of mycelium composite technology, there is a need to increase awareness about its potential environmental impact and, ultimately, to mitigate its potential contribution to pressing environmental concerns (e.g., global warming and climate change). Consequently, this study also adds to the existing body of literature on LCA studies, delineating key factors for consideration in future LCA studies and providing guidance for the sustainable establishment and expansion of this technology.
One-pot synthesis of unusual gold(I) cluster [Au 7 (Ph 3 P) 7 @C] 2+ in the presence of the macropolyhedral octadecahydro-eicosaborate anion [B 20 H 18 ] 2–
Authors: Avdeeva Varvara V. , Vologzhanina Anna V. , Novikov Valentin V. , Buzanov Grigorii A. , Malinina Еlena А. , Kuznetsov Nikolay T.
Published: February 2024

The reaction between [Au(Ph3P)Cl] and [B20H18]2– in DMF gave unprecedented heptanuclear cationic cluster [Au7(Ph3P)7@C]2+ isolated as [Au7(Ph3P)7@C][B20H18][Au(Ph3P)Cl]·0.5DMF in one step. The final compound was studied by 11B NMR and IR spectroscopies, ESI MS, single-crystal and powder X-ray diffractions. No special reagents were used to obtain central carbon atom in the cluster [Au7(Ph3P)7@C]2+.
Interventions of Exercise Therapy for Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Comparative Study of Effects
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Yidan , Dong Kunwei , Kuan Garry
Published: February 2024

Background: The cost of medical care for low back pain is a heavy financial burden for patients and has become a common social health issue that affects people of all ages and professions.
Objective：To comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of different types of exercise therapy in treating chronic non-specific low back pain, and provide decision support for patients, medical professionals, and decision-makers to choose the most suitable exercise therapy to reduce pain, improve function, and reduce medical expenses.
Methods: Data was sourced from electronic databases including PubMed, China Knowledge Network (CNKI), China Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), and Wanfang Data (WD). The search targeted studies focused on exercise therapy as a treatment for chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) conducted within the timeframe spanning five years, from 2018 to 2022. The selection process encompassed published literature, excluding studies deemed of low relevance, ultimately culminating in the inclusion of 26 pertinent papers.
Results: Different exercise modalities have shown clinical effectiveness for lumbopelvic stability exercise、spinal stabilization exercise training, etc., with superior efficacy for increasing muscle strength, enhancing spinal or lumbar stability, and increasing the thickness of core stabilising muscles. However, exercise therapies like McKenzie therapy (MDT), Motor Control Exercise（MCE）, Sling Exercise Therapy（SET）, and physical education (PE) are more helpful in restoring posture and function, improving neuromuscular control, and correcting delayed muscle activation than they are in increasing muscle thickness. Second, yoga activities have been found to help with pain management, emotional regulation, psychological control, and sleep problems.
Conclusions: Although there are differences in the clinical effectiveness of various exercise therapies for the management of CNLBP, yet all of these exercise interventions have significant efficacy for managing low back pain and are safe, simple to use, and affordable. This is crucial for reducing medical costs and warrants widespread promotion.The potential of exercise therapy in the treatment of CNLBP, healthcare professionals and patients choose appropriate exercise modalities based on individual needs to improve quality of life and reduce pain
Can blood and urine protein electrophoresis predict 1-year mortality in acute renal failure?
Authors: Yilmaz Deniz , Sahin Ezgi , Batar Gizem , Caglayan Koray , Gulturk Emine , Yoldemir Sengul Aydin
Published: February 2024

Background and objectives: This retrospective cohort study aimed to assess the predictive value of protein fractions obtained from blood and urine protein electrophoresis, along with various clinical and laboratory parameters, for 1-year all-cause mortality in acute renal failure (ARF) patients.
Methods: Data were collected from hospitalized patients who had been diagnosed with ARF. Demographics, smoking status, blood and urine electrophoresis results, serum gamma globulin levels, monoclonal gammopathy status, immunofixation results, serum free kappa (κ) and lambda (λ), and urine κ and λ levels were measured in addition to routine biochemistry and complete blood counts. In addition, serum free κ-to-λ ratio and urine κ-to-λ ratio were calculated. The primary endpoint was 1-year all-cause mortality and its association with electrophoresis-obtained data.
Results: Among the 295 patients included in the analyses, 65 (22.03%) experienced mortality, with higher mean age (72.75 ± 13.51) compared to the survival group (62.58 ± 16.59) (p<0.001). Sex distribution showed no significant difference between groups. No significant disparities were observed in electrophoresis parameters and other laboratory values. Multivariable logistic regression showed that high age (OR: 1.038, 95% CI: 1.016-1.062, p=0.001) and low albumin (OR: 0.450, 95% CI: 0.263-0.770, p=0.004) were independent predictors of mortality.
Conclusion: We find that the evidence gathered in the present study is insufficient to recommend the use of blood and urine protein fractions for diagnostic or prognostic purposes in patients with ARF. Nonetheless, the current data showing some notable variations in urine κ and λ levels suggest that further studies are warranted to explore this relationship.
Effects of different obturation techniques on postoperative pain and radiographic healing non surgical endodontic retreatment in single visit in teeth with single root canals and apical periodontitis: Randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: IŞIK Merve , AYDIN Zeliha UĞUR
Published: February 2024

Objective
Evaluation of the effect of different obturation techniques on postoperative pain level and radiographic healing on non-surgical endodontic retreatment (NSER) applied in a single visit in teeth with single root canal and apical periodontitis (AP).
Materials and Methods
63 teeth from 50 systemically healthy patients (mean age 34.19 ± 9.75 years; 27 women, 23 men) were included in the study. Residual root canal filling materials were removed all teeth were randomly divided into three groups according to the obturation technique; cold lateral compaction (CLC), continuous wave compaction (CWC), and thermoplasticized gutta-core (TGC). In all cases, pain status were evaluated using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NRS). Periapical index (PAI) scores were recorded on preoperative and postoperative 6-month on the periapical radiographs. Data were analyzed as statistically (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). Significance level was determined as p < 0.05.
Results
It was found that more postoperative pain occurred in the 3rd-hour interval after CLC and CWC compared to the 7th day interval (p < 0.05). There was no difference in postoperative pain between obturation techniques in all evaluated time intervals (p > 0.05). There was no difference the PAI scores recorded at 6-months between obturation tecniques for all periods (p > 0.05). Similar radiographic improvement was observed in all obturation techniques at 6-months (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
CLC, CWC, and TGC root canal obturation techniques were found to have similar efficacy after NSER in single visit in teeth with AP at 6-months.
Clinical relevance:
Results of the current study, different filling techniques applied did not affect the NSER results.
Factors associated with vulvovaginal candidiasis and antifungal susceptibility patterns among nonpregnant women attending the gynecology clinic at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital: A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Mtende Luc M'mebwa , Kasujja Musa , Simba Lionel Musafiri , Bataringaya Geoffrey , Cikuru Rodrigue Buhendwa , W’Ehusha Lubunga , Kratzer Timothy , Otuu Bosco Okello , Wamboko Isaac Kusulo , Eilu Emmanuel
Published: February 2024

Introduction:
Approximately 75% of women experience vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) at least once during their lifetime. Candida normally exists as a harmless commensal in the vaginal epithelial tissues of hosts, but various factors, such as antibiotics, diabetes, bacterial vaginosis, prior vaginal infections, and age, can render it pathogenic. The factors associated with VVC exhibit regional variations influenced by sociodemographic characteristics and other elements. In Uganda, there is increasing resistance to conventional antifungal drugs (fluconazole and itraconazole) among pregnant women infected with non-Albicans species. This research delves into the prevalence, associated factors, and antifungal sensitivity patterns of VVC among 278 women who sought care at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital (HRRH) in Uganda.
Methods
A cross-sectional design involving 288 nonpregnant women was employed, and questionnaires and laboratory analyses were used. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, and logistic regression were used for data analysis.
Results
This research revealed a prevalence of VVC of 27.70%, revealing significant associations between VVC and age, HIV status, hormonal contraceptive use, and prior VVC occurrence. The antifungal sensitivity patterns highlighted the necessity for tailored treatment strategies based on local resistance profiles.
Conclusion
This study revealed a high prevalence of VVC. Patients aged between 21 and 34 years, HIV-positive patients, and those with previous episodes of VVC were the most affected. On the other hand, Candida species were more sensitive to amphotericin B but less sensitive to miconazole and griseofulvin.
Exploring the Applicability of a Multifactor Mindfulness Scale in Chinese College Context
Authors: Zhang Dan , Shen Jianbo , Ma Hongyu
Published: February 2024

Background: Owing to the lack of a precise and comprehensive mindfulness measurement tool capable of capturing all facets of mindfulness, developing such an assessment tool has become an intriguing and worthwhile area of exploration. This study investigates the applicability of a multifactor mindfulness scale to Chinese college students. In particular, it tests the applicability of the Chinese version of the Comprehensive Inventory of Mindfulness Experiences (CHIME) in college students.
Methods: Prior to the formal test, 410 subjects completed the CHIME-37. The feedback received from this pretest was used to obtain the final descriptions. During the formal assessment, 1927 subjects participated, and 490 students were retested two months later. The criteria-related validity of the CHIME-37 was assessed using instruments such as the subjective well-being scale, psychological well-being scale, peace of mind scale, self-reflection and insight scale, emotion regulation scale, depression-anxiety-stress scale, and sickness questionnaire.
Results: The sample was randomly divided into two halves. In the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of Sample 1 (n = 838), CHIME comprised 8 factors: 1) Awareness of internal experiences, 2) Awareness of external experiences, 3) Mindful action, 4) Acceptance and non-judgment, 5) Decentering and non-reactivity, 6) Experiential openness, 7) Relativity of thoughts and reality, and 8) Insightful understanding. The cumulative variance accounted for 70.696%. Confirmatory factor, criterion-related validity, and internal consistency analyses were conducted on the randomly split 947 samples for validation. Confirmatory factor analysis of Sample 2 confirmed the 8-factor model (x2/df = 1.751, CFI = 0.981, TLI = 0.979, RMSEA = 0.028). The internal consistency coefficients of the eight dimensions range from 0.848 to 0.914, with test-retest reliabilities ranging from 0.746 to 0.885, and split-half reliabilities ranging from 0.795 to 0.898. Total scores and scores on the eight dimensions are significantly positively correlated with subjective well-being, psychological well-being, emotion stability, and cognitive reappraisal (P < 0.01), while they are negatively correlated with physical and mental illnesses, depression-anxiety-stress, and expressive inhibition (P < 0.01).
Conclusion: The revised version of the CHIME demonstrates robust reliability and validity, establishing it as a suitable tool for measuring the mindfulness levels of Chinese college students.
Vitamin D deficiency and TSH level, a relationship in nonautoimmune hypothyroidism pediatrics
Authors: MohammadTaheri Mohadeseh , Kazemi Seyed Alinaghi , Ahmadi Farzane , Hadiloo Kaveh , Molaei Ziba
Published: February 2024

Background and purpose: Vitamin D has a crucial role in the organs' function and is essential for specific populations like pediatrics. Indeed, the thyroid function correlates with the Vitamin D level in the body, so the consequences of this depletion are very important. In non-autoimmune hypothyroidism, the Vitamin D level influences the thyroid function which could be tracked with thyroid stimulating hormone.Design and methods:In this cross-sectional study, among 2,503 children aged three to 18 who were referred to the pediatrics endocrinology and metabolic clinic in Zanjan city in 2022-2023, 102 children with non-autoimmune hypothyroidism who did not have a history of other diseases or the use of drugs affecting thyroid function in last three months were selected and entered this study. Data were analyzed by IBM SPSS 24 using binary logistic regression.Results:The mean (standard deviation) vitamin D level in the study population was 27.66 (13.17) ng/ml, with a deficiency prevalence of 63.7%. The odds of vitamin D deficiency significantly increased 70 percent with one unit (mIU)/liter (L) increasing in TSH (OR=1.70, CI 95%:1.19-2.43, P= 0.003. However, weight, height, sex, age, body mass index, and season had no statistically significant relationship.Conclusions:The level of vitamin D and TSH level have a positive correlation in non-autoimmune hypothyroidism pediatric patients. Indeed, the correcting vitamin D deficiently reduces the TSH level. So, we can use vitamin D supplements along with other treatments in treating hypothyroidism.
Understanding Maternal Ethnomedical Folklore in Central Uganda: a cross-sectional study of herbal remedies for managing Postpartum hemorrhage, inducing Uterine contractions and Abortion in Najjembe sub-county, Buikwe district
Authors: Nabatanzi Alice , Walusansa Abdul , Karume Ibrahim
Published: February 2024

Pregnant women in rural Uganda largely rely on medicinal plants for inducing labor, treating postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), and inducing abortion. Ninety percent of the women in both rural and urban Uganda use plants to manage pregnancy symptoms like constipation, heartburn, morning sickness, body aches, nausea, and vomiting. After delivery women continue using plants to manage postpartum complications and for infant care especially herbal baths. This study documented how ethnomedical folklore aids childbirth, treats postpartum hemorrhage and abortion.
Methods:
A cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey was conducted from May – December 2024 in Najjemebe sub-county, Buikwe district. 206 respondents from 12 villages were selected using snowball sampling. Key informants included Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) and herbalists. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Voucher specimens of the plants were identified and authenticated at Makerere University Herbarium. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Informant Consensus factor (ICF), Use Reports (URs), paired comparisons, and GraphPad Prism® version 9.0.0 software.
Results:
All respondents (N = 206, 100%), used plants to induce labour, treat PPH and induce abortion. One hundred four plant species were documented: most cited or preferred were: Hoslundia opposita (N = 109, 53%), Phytolacca dodecandra (N = 72, 35%), and Commelina erecta (N = 47, 23%). The plants belonged to 49 families, Lamiaceae (16.3%) and Fabaceae (14.3%) having the majority of the species. Herbs were 42 (40%) and trees 23 (22%). Oral administration 95(72%) was the commonest, then topical 19 (14.4%) and vaginal 14(10.6%).
Conclusion:
Health surveys revealed that about 27% of deliveries in Uganda take place outside a health facility. Due to the oxytocic effects of plant species reported in this study, they play a triple role of being uterotonics, abortifacients, and treating postpartum haemmorhage. The dilemma lies in the unknown dosages and toxicity levels that could endanger both the mother's and the unborn child's lives. Due to Uganda's high rates of population growth, overall fertility, maternal mortality, and morbidity, policies, and programmes on gendered health provision need to be reevaluated. Integrating herbal medicine into health care systems appears to be a feasible solution.
Elevated plasma neurofilament light was associated with multi-modal neuroimaging features in Alzheimer’s Disease signature regions and predicted future tau deposition
Authors: Hu Qili , Shi Mengqiu , Li Yunfei , Zhao Xiaohu
Published: February 2024

Background:
Neurofilament Light (NfL) is a biomarker for early neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study aims to examine the association between plasma NfL and multi-modal neuroimaging features across the AD spectrum and whether NfL predicts future tau deposition.
Methods:
The present study recruited 517 participants comprising Aβ negative cognitively normal (CN-) participants (n = 135), CN + participants (n = 64), individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (n = 212), and those diagnosed with AD dementia (n = 106). All the participants underwent multi-modal neuroimaging examinations. Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between plasma NfL and multi-modal neuro-imaging features were evaluated using partial correlation analysis and linear mixed effects models. We also used linear regression analysis to investigate the association of baseline plasma NfL with future PET tau load. Mediation analysis was used to explore whether the effect of NfL on cognition was mediated by these MRI markers.
Results:
The results showed that baseline NfL levels and the rate of change were associated with Aβ deposition, brain atrophy, brain connectome, glucose metabolism, and brain perfusion in AD signature regions. In both Aβ positive CN and MCI participants, baseline NfL showed a significant predictive value of elevating tau burden in the left medial orbitofrontal cortex and para-hippocampus. Lastly, the multi-modal neuroimaging features mediated the association between plasma NfL and cognitive performance.
Conclusions:
The study supports the association between plasma NfL and multi-modal neuroimaging features in AD-vulnerable regions and its predictive value for future tau deposition.
Lipid-to-neutrophil ratios in predicting in-hospital outcomes in pulmonary thromboembolism
Authors: Roshanravan Neda , Hamzehzadeh Sina , Ghaffari Samad , Rassouli Sami , Naseri Amirreza , Yahyapoor Tohid , Javanshir Elnaz , Banisefid Erfan
Published: February 2024

Objective
Acute pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is one of the leading causes of death and severe disability. Considering the availability and accessibility of complete blood count (CBC) and lipid profiles, our study was conducted to assess the predictive value of lipid-to-neutrophil count ratios for the short-term survival of PTE patients.
Results
The population of this analytical cross-sectional study consists of 547 PTE patients of which 41 patients (7.5%) died during hospitalization. There was a significant difference between death and survived groups regarding cholesterol (146.00[60.50] vs. 165.50[59.75]; p-value < 0.01), LDL (80.00[48.00] vs. 102.00[52.00]; p-value < 0.01), HDL (31.00[19.00] vs. 35.00[14.00]; p-value = 0.04). Cholesterol/neutrophil*1000 with a cut-off value of 22.014 (sensitivity: 56.7%; specificity: 61.3%), LDL/neutrophil*1000 with a cut-off value of 10.909 (sensitivity: 69.3%; specificity: 51.9%) and HDL/neutrophile *1000 with a cut-off value of 4.150 (sensitivity: 61.9%; specificity: 58.1%) can predict short-term survival in patients with acute PTE. Based on our findings, patients with higher cholesterol/neutrophil, LDL/neutrophil, and HDL/neutrophil ratios have a better in-hospital prognosis and measurement of lipid-to-neutrophil ratio in the first 24 hours of hospitalization may be a valuable marker for determining the early prognosis of PTE.
Evaluation of Patients Diagnosed with Acute Flaccid Paralysis Followed and Treated in Pediatric İntensive Care: A Multi-Center Study
Authors: BOTAN EDIN , BOYRAZ MERVE , YÜCE SERVET , GÜN EMRAH , ÖZEN HASAN , HAVAN MERVE , AŞIK AYŞE , GURBANOV ANAR , KARADAĞLI EDA EŞE , BOTAN EMİNE ULU , TORUN ŞEYMA ERDEM , KÖKER ALPER , YAVUZ SİNAN , BOYDAĞ KÜBRA , DUYU MUHTEREM , HOROZ ÖZDEN ÖZGÜR , EKİNCİ FARUK , DURSUN OĞUZ , YILDIZDAŞ RIZA DİNÇER , KENDİRLİ TANIL
Published: February 2024

Backgroud: Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) is a syndrome characterized by decreased tone (flaccidity), often presenting with respiratory and bulbar system failure, rapid onset, and weakness in the extremities.
Methods: From January 1, 2018 to January 1, 2023, the clinical findings, treatment results, intensive care processes and prognoses of 68 children diagnosed with AFP who applied were evaluated retrospectively.
Results: The age range of patients was between one month and 18 years, with a mean age of 7.9 ± 4.5 years. Out of the patients, 33 were male (48.5%).The average pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) stay for all AFP patients was 15.4 ± 19.5 days, and the average hospital stay was 23.3 ± 21.1 days. Among all AFP patients, 42 (61.8%) required respiratory support. All patients received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment. Twenty-five out of 43 Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) patients, seven out of 11 and transverse myelitis (TM) patients, and 11 out of 14 acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) patients received therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). Among the 14 intubated GBS patients, five received IVIG treatment for two days or less, and nine received IVIG treatment for four days or more. The invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) durations (in days) showed that patients who received IVIG treatment for four days or more had a significantly longer intubation period (p: 0.044). Out of GBS patients, received only IVIG (monotherapy), and received IVIG and TPE (combined) treatment. The combined treatment group had a longer PICU stay (p: 0.001).
Conclusion:In our study revealed that combination therapies (IVIG and TPE or steroid and TPE) led to prolonged MV and PICU stay durations compared to monotherapies (IVIG or steroids) in AFP patients. Moreover showed that in intubated GBS cases, administering 2 g/kg/day IVIG for two days significantly reduced the duration of invasive MV.
Determinants of food insecurity among adults residing in peri-urban municipal settings in Flanders, Belgium
Authors: Inaç Yasemin , D'Hooghe Suzannah , De Ridder Karin , Dury Sarah , de Weghe Nico Van , De Clercq Eva M. , Dyck Delfien Van , Deforche Benedicte , Vandevijvere Stefanie
Published: February 2024

Food insecurity is a global public health issue associated with noncommunicable diseases. Individual factors are strongly associated with food insecurity, but there is limited literature on the broader impact of both the social and food environments on food insecurity in non-English speaking European countries, given that the research was predominantly conducted in Anglophone settings. In addition, these studies have mostly been conducted in urban areas.
Therefore, this study aimed to identify the main determinants of food insecurity among adults living in peri-urban areas in Flanders, Belgium. Data on socio-demographics, neighborhood social cohesion, social isolation, and perceived food environments were collected from 567 adults through a self-administered questionnaire, and objective data on the food environment were obtained through (commercial) databases on food outlets. Food insecurity was measured using the USDA Household Food Security Survey Module. Multivariable logistic regression models revealed that lower socioeconomic status (OR14.11,95%CI:4.72;61.11), reasonable (OR4.16,95%CI: 2.11;8.47) to poor and very poor (OR6.54,95%CI: 2.11;8.47) subjective health status, and living in private (OR7.01, 95% CI:3.0;17.0) or government-assisted (OR6.32,95%CI: 3.13;13.26) rental housing significantly increased the odds of food insecurity. Additionally, residing in a neighborhood with low (OR2.64, 95% CI:1.13;6.26) to medium (OR2.45,95% CI:1.21;5.11) social cohesion, having a neutral opinion (OR4.12,95%CI:1.51;11.54) about the availability of fruit and vegetables in one's neighborhood, and having an opinion that fruit and vegetable prices are too expensive (OR5.43,95% CI 2.26;14.4) significantly increased the odds of experiencing food insecurity. This study underscores the need for policies that consider factors related to social and food environments, in addition to individual factors, to effectively address food insecurity.
A Time Series Study of PM10 Pollutant using Multiple Linear Regression in Meerut City
Authors: Kumar Lokesh , Kumar Gaurav
Published: February 2024

In Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, air pollution has become a major problem. Among the components of air pollution are NO2, SO2, and PM10. The design of an approach to reduce air pollution can be aided by the forecasting of these contaminants. In addition to discussing air pollution as a problem, this paper examines the air toxin PM10 for the Kesarganj Area of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, using data from prior years that was prepared by the U.P. Pollution Control Board. The analysis is done applying multiple linear regression (MLR).
MSC Code: 65C60
Sleep disturbances in late pregnancy – associations with induction of labor
Authors: Lähde Henna , Karlsson Hasse , Karlsson Linnea , Perasto Laura , Varis Viliina , Rinne Kirsi , Paavonen juulia , Polo-Kantola Päivi
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Sleep disturbances, which are common during pregnancy, may compromise labor. Nevertheless, little is known about associations between sleep disturbances and the likelihood to end with IOL. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the connections between sleep disturbances during pregnancy and IOL.
Methods
Altogether 1778 women from the FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study with gestation weeks over 37 + 6 were enrolled in the study. The women were divided into IOL (n = 331) and spontaneous onset of labor (SOL, n = 1447) groups. Sleep disturbances in late pregnancy were evaluated using the Basic Nordic Sleep Questionnaire. Logistic regression analyses were conducted with adjustments for age, body mass index, parity, smoking, depressive symptoms, and mode of delivery.
Results
Sleep disturbances were frequent in both IOL and SOL groups. In the IOL group 43.0% and in the SOL group 39.0% had poor general sleep quality (P = 0.186). Nocturnal awakenings occurred most commonly, in 94.0% and 93.9%, respectively (P = 0.653). In the IOL group, more women (22.7%) were habitual snorers than in the SOL group (17.0%, P = 0.017), however, the difference lost the statistical significance in adjusted analysis (P = 0.848). Women in the IOL group were more likely to be short sleepers (< 7 h) compared to those in the SOL group (20.2% and 15.4%, respectively, P = 0.034) with no difference after adjustment (P = 0.133). The two groups showed no differences in sleep loss (P = 0.252).
Conclusions
Deterioration in sleep quality was noticeable in pregnant women, but it was unconnected with IOL. As the frequency of IOL is increasing, more research for related risk factors is needed.
Association between Large Neutral Amino Acids and Brain Integrity in Middle-Aged Adults at Metabolic Risk
Authors: Youn Cherry , Caillaud Marie L. , Li Yanrong , Gallagher Isabelle A. , Strasser Barbara , Fuchs Dietmar , Tanaka Hirofumi , Haley Andreana P.
Published: February 2024

This investigation delves into the interplay between large neutral amino acids (LNAA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in midlife adults, examining their collective influence on brain structure and cognitive function. While LNAA, such as tryptophan and phenylalanine, are known to bolster cognition in youth, our study hypothesizes a reversal of these benefits in older adults with MetS, potentially signaling premature cognitive aging. Eighty participants between 40–61 years underwent MetS component quantification, LNAA measurement via high-performance liquid chromatography, and brain imaging to evaluate white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volume and medial temporal lobe (MTL) cortical thickness. Our linear regression analysis, adjusting for sex, age, and education, revealed that phenylalanine levels moderated the relationship between MetS and WMH volume (F(6, 69) = 3.134, p < 0.05, R2 = 0.214), suggesting that MetS's cognitive impact may be partly due to phenylalanine catabolism byproducts. However, LNAA metabolites did not significantly modulate the MetS-MTL cortical thickness relationship. The findings suggest that LNAA metabolic dysregulation, marked by elevated levels in the presence of MetS, could correlate with brain structural compromises, particularly in the form of MTL cortical thinning and increased WMH load, detectable in midlife. This nuanced understanding of LNAA's role in cognitive health amid cardiovascular risk factors is pivotal, proposing a potential biomarker for early intervention. Further research is crucial to elucidate the longitudinal influence of LNAA and MetS on brain health, thereby informing strategies to mitigate cognitive decline.
Intratumoral Microbiome of Adenoid Cystic Carcinomas and Comparison with Other Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Karpinets Tatiana V. , Mitani Yoshitsugu , Chang Chia-Chi , Wu Xiaogang , Song Xingzhi , Flores Ivonne I , McDaniel Lauren K , Hoballah Yasmine M , Veguilla Fabiana J , Ferrarotto Renata , Colbert Lauren E , Ajami Nadim J , Jenq Robert R , Zhang Jianhua , Futreal Andrew P , El-Naggar Adel K.
Published: February 2024

Background: Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare, usually slow-growing yet aggressive head and neck malignancy. Despite its clinical significance, our understanding of the cellular evolution and microenvironment in ACC remains limited.
Methods: We investigated the intratumoral microbiomes of 50 ACC tumor tissues and 33 adjacent normal tissues using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. This allowed us to characterize the bacterial communities within the ACC and explore potential associations between the bacterial community structure, patient clinical characteristics, and tumor molecular features obtained through RNA sequencing.
Results: The bacterial composition in the ACC was significantly different from that in adjacent normal salivary tissue, and the ACC exhibited diverse levels of species richness. We identified two main microbial subtypes within the ACC: oral-like and gut-like. Oral-like microbiomes, characterized by increased diversity and abundance of Neisseria, Leptotrichia, Actinomyces, Streptococcus, Rothia, and Veillonella(commonly found in healthy oral cavities), were associated with a less aggressive ACC-II molecular subtype and improved patient outcomes. Notably, we identified the same oral genera in oral cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. In both cancers, they were part of shared oral communities associated with a more diverse microbiome, less aggressive tumor phenotype, and better survival. Conversely, gut-like intratumoral microbiomes, which feature low diversity and colonization by gut mucus layer-degrading species, such as Bacteroides, Akkermansia, Blautia, Bifidobacterium, and Enterococcus, were associated with poorer outcomes. Elevated levels of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron were independently associated with significantly worse survival, regardless of other clinical and molecular factors. Furthermore, these associations were positively correlated with tumor cell biosynthesis of glycan-based cell membrane components.
Conclusions: Our study identified specific intratumoral oral genera as potential pancancer biomarkers for favorable microbiomes in ACC and other head and neck cancers. These findings highlight the pivotal role of the intratumoral microbiome in influencing ACC prognosis and disease biology.
Influence of Xymedon and its conjugate with L-ascorbic acid on collagen remodeling in the liver fibrosis rat model
Authors: Belyaev Grigory P. , Vyshtakalyuk Alexandra B. , Parfenov Andrey A. , Galyametdinova Irina V. , Semenov Vyacheslav E. , Zobov Vladimir V.
Published: February 2024

Fibrosis of the liver is a chronic inflammatory process with activation of hepatic stellate cells and abnormal accumulation of proteins in the extracellular matrix. However, it is known that pyrimidine derivatives have a beneficial effect on the condition of various organs with the ongoing process of fibrosis. Therefore, the aim of this work was to investigate the effect of the drug Xymedon (1,2-dihydro-4,6-dimethyl-1-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)pyrimidine-2-one, (compound 1) and its conjugate with L-ascorbic acid (compound 2) on collagen remodeling in rat liver tissue. For this purpose, female Wistar rats were used to model fibrosis by oral administration of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and ethanol for 8 weeks. Then the rats were treated with the studied compounds for 2 or 4 weeks. Histological analysis by hematoxylin-eosin and Van Gizon’s staining of liver slices, biochemical analysis of blood serum and Western blot analysis of COX-2 level in rat liver homogenates were performed. It has been shown that in the control group without treatment, after 2 weeks of withdrawal of CCl4 + ethanol, collagen remodeling occurs to the certain chronic level. At the same time, compound 2 reduces the level of collagen fibers by 41% compared to the control group, while native compound 1 has no such effect. Also, in all groups studied, there was the decrease in the inflammatory marker COX-2 both after 2 weeks of CCl4 + ethanol withdrawal and after treatment with studied compounds 1 and 2. Thus, compound 2 (conjugate of Xymedon with L-ascorbic acid) has the greater antifibrotic effect on the rat liver fibrosis model compared to the native molecule of compound 1 (Xymedon). At the same time, this effect is not associated with the level of COX-2.
Removal of Toxic Hexavalent Chromium from Wastewater by Activated Carbon Generated from Liming Pelt Trimming with Tannin
Authors: Hossain Md. Faiaz , Mottalib Md. Abdul , Paul Trisha , Shaikh Md. Aftab Ali
Published: February 2024

In the leather industry, 8–12% of chromium compound is used in tanning and around 60–70% of the applied chromium is consumed by the leather fibre and the rest of them are discharged to the effluent. This chromium has an adverse impact on the environment as well as on humans. Chromium (III) can be oxidized into chromium (VI) in many ways which are considered carcinogenic as well as mutagenic. Activated carbon generated from liming pelt trimming which is left over as a tannery solid waste with vegetable tannin (mimosa) was employed to investigate chromium (VI) adsorption from aqueous solutions. Activated carbon was prepared in a muffle furnace at 600oC in the presence of sulfuric acid. Batch tests were performed to determine how several factors, such as pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage, initial chromium content, and temperature affected the adsorption process. The excellent maximum chromium (VI) removal efficiency was found 99.15% from aqueous solutions at pH 1 and an adsorbent dosage of 15 g/L. According to the kinetic investigation, the chromium (VI) removal by the activated carbon followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic with an R2 of 0.9889. Thermodynamic parameters including ΔGo, ΔHo, and ΔSo revealed that the adsorption of chromium ions on the activated carbon was exothermic and spontaneous. The results prove that chromium (VI) could be removed from industrial wastewater using a very promising, cost-efficient biosorbent made from tannery solid waste. The novelty of the current approach is to utilize the tannery solid waste as an adsorbent to reduce the dangerous chemicals from the wastewater where pollutants will be eliminated by the treatment of waste.
Breast cancer screening motivation among women: an application of Self-determination theory
Authors: Dang Chau Thi , Nguyen Tu Thi Ngoc , Ho Trang Thi Thuy , Kang Sunjoo
Published: February 2024

Background: Breast cancer is a major health concern worldwide, especially in Vietnam. This study aimed to explore women’s motivation for and factors related to breast cancer screening.
Methods: A mixed-methods study was conducted in Danang, Vietnam, using a convergent parallel approach. This study utilized both quantitative and qualitative methods to gather the data. The quantitative approach involved surveys to assess motivation levels and related factors, including demographic information and experience with breast cancer screening. In-depth qualitative interviews were used to gain deeper insights into participants' perspectives and experiences related to breast cancer screening.
Results: The average motivation score for breast cancer screening was moderate (3.55 ±0.55). Ethnicity, regular health check-ups, family history of breast cancer, receiving information about breast cancer, and women’s health issues have direct relationships with breast cancer screening motivation. According to the qualitative data, three categories emerged—intrinsic motivation, external motivation/internalization, and amotivation—and individual factors and external and sociocultural environmental factors impacted screening motivation.
Conclusions: This study highlights the motivations behind breast cancer screening among women. Healthcare providers could use these findings to improve screening policies and guidelines and encourage more women to undergo regular screening, ultimately reducing the incidence of breast cancer in the community.
Dual Effectiveness of Rosemary Leaves in Constipation and Diarrhea
Authors: Naqvi Sara , Rehman Najeeb Ur , Azhar Iqbal , Palla Amber
Published: February 2024

Background:
Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Rosemary), traditionally used herb for gut motility disorders. However, limited studies are available to provide the pharmacological basis for its medicinal use.
Aim:
We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of rosemary in constipation and diarrhea with pharmacological mechanisms.
Method:
The Hydro-ethanolic extract of rosemary (Rs.Cr) was analyzed for its phytosonstituents using reverse phase high pressure liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Laxative and antidiarrheal assay were assessed in-vivo in BALB/c mice while anxiolytic assay was carried out in Sprague Dawley rats using dark and light activity and elevated plus maze assay. Spasmogenic and spasmolytic mechanisms were explored on isolated tissue using guinea pig ileum and rabbit jejunum tissues.
Results
Rs.Cr showed presence of diosmetin, rutin and apigenin in RP-HPLC. Increase in laxative scores were evident at 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg doses of Rs.Cr whereas increasing the dose to 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg reduced the diarrheal score. The antidiarrheal activity was mediated by reduction in intestinal motility followed by intestinal secretions. Diosmetin reduced the secretion and motility dose dependently. Anxiolytic effect was evident at the tested doses of 400 and 600 mg/kg.
Rs.Cr exhibited spasmogenic activity and effect was blocked completely by atropine and partially by histamine, indicating a cholinergic and partial histaminergic component. The antispasmodic activity was due to predominant ATP-dependent K+ channels. Antimuscarinic effect was also observed. Diosmetin showed spasmolytic activity.
Conclusion
Dual spasmogenic and spasmolytic activities coupled with in-vivo antidiarrheal, laxative and anxiolytic activities, provide the basis for the medicinal use of Rosemary in gut motility disorders.
The Discrete New XLindley Distribution And The Associated Autoregressive Process
Authors: R Maya , P Jodra , S Aswathy , M.R. Irshad
Published: February 2024

The continuous new XLindley distribution was introduced by Nawel et al. (2023) as a special case of the polynomial exponential distribution proposed by Beghriche et al. (2022).The current paper introduces the one-parameter discrete analogue distribution of the newXLindley model and studies its main statistical properties. In particular, closed-formexpressions are provided for the moment generating function, mean, variance, quantilefunction, hazard rate function and mean residual life. Moreover, the new distribution hasdiscrete increasing failure rate and both overdispersed and underdispersed count data canbe handled. The estimation of the unknown parameter can be performed by the maximum likelihood method and a Monte Carlo simulation study reveals that this methodprovides satisfactory estimates. Additionally, a first-order integer-valued autoregressiveprocess is constructed from the discrete distribution and, via a simulation study, the conditional maximum likelihood method is recommended for estimation purposes. In orderto assess the usefulness in practical applications, the proposed distribution and the associated first-order autoregressive process are compared to other competing distributionsand processes, using to this end several real data sets. In the context of statistical qualitycontrol, finally a cumulative sum control chart is developed for monitoring the processmean. To illustrate its usefulness, both simulation and real data analysis are performed.
Cover Crop Root Exudates Impact Soil Microbiome Functional Trajectories in Agricultural Soils
Authors: Seitz Valerie A. , McGivern Bridget B. , Borton Mikayla A. , Chaparro Jacqueline M. , Schipanski Meagan E. , Prenni Jessica E. , Wrighton Kelly C.
Published: February 2024

Background
Cover cropping is an agricultural practice that uses secondary crops to support the growth of primary crops through various mechanisms including erosion control, weed suppression, nutrient management, and enhanced biodiversity. Cover crops may elicit some of these ecosystem services through chemical interactions with the soil microbiome via root exudation, or the release of plant metabolites from roots. Phytohormones are one metabolite type exuded by plants that activate the rhizosphere microbiome, yet managing this chemical interaction remains an untapped mechanism for optimizing plant-soil microbiome interactions. Currently, there is limited understanding on the diversity of cover crop phytohormone root exudation patterns and how these chemical messages selectively enrich specific microbial taxa and functionalities in agricultural soils.
Results
Here, we link variability in cover crop root exudate composition to changes in soil microbiome functionality. Exudate chemical profiles from 4 cover crop species (Sorghum bicolor, Vicia villosa, Brassica napus, and Secale cereal) were used as the chemical inputs to decipher microbial responses. These distinct exudate profiles, along with a no exudate control, were amended to agricultural soil microcosms with microbial responses tracked over time using metabolomes and genome-resolved metatranscriptomes. Our findings illustrated microbial metabolic patterns were unique in response to cover crop exudate inputs over time, particularly by sorghum and cereal rye amended microcosms where we identify novel microbial members (at the genera and family level) who produced IAA and GA4 over time. We also identify broad changes in microbial nitrogen cycling in response chemical inputs.
Conclusions
We highlight that root exudate amendments alter microbial community function and phytohormone metabolisms, particularly in response to root exudates isolated from cereal rye and sorghum plants. Additionally, we constructed a soil microbial genomic catalog of microorganisms responding to commonly used cover crops, a public resource for agriculturally-relevant microbes. Many of our exudate-stimulated microorganisms are representatives from poorly characterized or novel taxa, highlighting the yet to be discovered metabolic reservoir harbored in agricultural soils. Our findings emphasize the tractability of high-resolution multiomics approaches to investigate processes relevant for agricultural soils, opening the possibility of targeting specific soil biogeochemical outcomes through biological precision agricultural practices that use cover crops and the microbiome as levers for enhanced crop production.
Telemedicine and Neurology: A survey of Neurology patients in a Nigerian tertiary hospital
Authors: Yakubu Aliu O. , Olalude Oluwakemi Eunice , Salami Mayowa Sodiq , Amuta Augustine Chijioke , Amusa Abeedat Olaide , Salaudeen Hasanat Adejoke , Awoyemi Ayodeji John
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND
Telemedicine has been recognized as a viable solution for addressing the shortage of medical professionals in developing countries such as Nigeria. Tele-neurology has the potential to provide remote consultations and care for patients with neurological conditions, thereby reducing the burden of travel and improving access to medical care. Despite its growing popularity, there is a lack of research on patient’s view on this mode of care delivery in Nigeria. This study was conducted to investigate patient's perspective on the use of tele-neurology in Nigeria.
METHODOLOGY
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 398 neurology patients at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a chi-square test using p < 0.05
RESULTS
Only 3% of our respondents had previously used telemedicine, with 78.1% of the respondents open to using telemedicine as a means of consultation. The disadvantages of telemedicine noted include limitations in assessing neurological status (94.7%), difficulty in explaining health conditions (84.4%), and lack of technical support (14.6%). The majority of respondents (96.5%) believe telemedicine will help in saving time. There was a statistically significant association between propensity to use telemedicine and time spent in the hospital (0.045), and time off work (<0.001). The propensity to use telemedicine was statistically significant to the use of email (0.001) and type of email address (0.001).
CONCLUSION
The findings suggest that there is a need for healthcare providers and policymakers to invest in developing telemedicine to improve access to care.