bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biofloc Technology for Sustainable Growth of Shrimp Species: Litopenaeus Vannamei
Authors: Ivekananda Babu  , Anisha Shafni John  , K. Kavitha  , Ayyaru Gopalakrishnan
Published: December 2023

Aquaculture stands as the fastest-growing food-producing sector globally, undergoing continuous development, expansion, and intensification across all regions. Despite the anticipation of higher production levels, the global growth of aquaculture is constrained by the severe scarcity of water and the limited availability of suitable land. Biofloc systems have emerged as a viable solution tailored for water-scarce areas. This innovative system offers a potential food source for shrimp reared in an environmentally friendly, limited or zero water exchange environment, with minimal effluents released into the surrounding ecosystem. The present study was conducted at a corporate aquaculture farm facility located in Cuddalore district, Tamilnadu. The research focused on evaluating the water quality, survival rates, and growth performance of Litopenaeus vannamei, ranging from post-larvae (PL-9) to 26.6 grams, over a 120-day period within a Biofloc system. Three cement tanks, designated as C1 (control) and C2, C3 (test), were utilized, each with a stocking density of 120 PL/sq.m. After reaching a weight of 2 grams, the shrimp were transferred to grow-out ponds. The results indicated that shrimp reared in Biofloc tanks exhibited significantly higher final weights, survival rates, and favorable water quality parameters compared to the control group, which relied solely on commercial feed. Significantly, as the biofloc volume rose, there was a noteworthy decrease in the requirement for feed application, thereby establishing the Biofloc system as a financially efficient option for shrimp cultivation.
Identification of B cell and T cell specific peptide vaccine for Moraxella catarrahalis.
Authors: V.R.S.Harshitha, Sathish Sankar
Published: December 2023

Moraxella catarrhalis is a gram-negative bacterium that commonly causes respiratory tract infections, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying respiratory conditions. In recent years, there has been growing interest in developing peptide-based vaccines to target specific antigens of M. catarrhalis for B cell and T cell immune responses.
Identification of B- cell and T- cell specific peptide vaccine for Histoplasma capsulatum
Authors: Andrew Benedict, Sathish Sankar
Published: December 2023

Histoplasma capsulatum is an environmental dimorphic fungus.  H. capsulatum infections are primarily acquired, and there is no person-to-person transmission with the rare exception of organ transplantation. The objective of this research is to identify a B-cell and T-cell specific peptide vaccine for H. capsulatum by analyzing the outer membrane protein, predicting B-cell and T-cell epitopes, and selecting a candidate peptide vaccine with high homology to the pathogen and strong MHC I-binding potential
Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Property of Methanolic Extract of Momordica Dioica in Wistar Rat Model
Authors: Vrushali Neve  , Jui Darbhe  , Vrushali Bhalchim  , Pawan Karwa  , Jaymala Kumawat  , Suchita Gokhale  , Dr. Rupali Yewale  , Pritam Kutal
Published: December 2023

Background: Since current medications frequently cause potentially serious side effects, countless individuals continued to have pain and inflammation despite the accessibility of treatments. Ancient practitioners have used a variety of herbal remedies with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties extensively. Momordica Dioica is one of them, but no experimental research has been done in support of this traditional use.  Objective: The purpose of the research was to assess the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of methanolic Momordica Dioica fruit extracts. Methods: Dryed by air According to OECD guideline the version eighteen, the fruit of Momordica Dioica is extracted with the solvent methanol as well as an acute oral toxicity study was done for the methanol-based extract of Momordica Dioica. The Active Constituent responsible for the Activity was confirmed by HPTLC method. The hot plate method was employed to assess the analgesic efficacy of centrally mediated analgesia.The ability to reduce inflammation was assessed using a carrageenan-induced paw oedema test. Results: Momordica dioica's methanolic extract inhibits the ceiling result during activity.  The Methanolic Extract of Momordica dioica (MEMD) extract demonstrated a significant (p 0.0001) analgesic effect in the hot plate method at doses of 100mg/kg and in all combinations with standard. Maximum anti-inflammatory effects were seen in carrageenan-induced paw edema starting 2-4 hours after induction, and all tested doses of the extract significantly inhibited the carrageenan-induced inflammation (p 0.0001, p 0.001). The presence of a pentacyclic terpenoid i.e Ursolic acid present in the extract had potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity which supports the traditional claim.
Evaluation Of Prognostic Factors and Tools for Prediction of Ambulation in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Review
Authors: Dr Pallavi Palaskar  , Dr Sanjeev Attry  , Dr Rinkle Malani  , Dr Anchit Gungnani  , Dr Anjali Kale
Published: December 2023

Cerebral Palsy is the leading cause for pediatric chronic disability and parents’ caregivers, neurologists and pediatric rehabilitation specialists would find it difficult to predict the prognosis of ambulation in children with cerebral palsy. The prediction of ambulation in children with cerebral palsy is of utmost importance still there is no definitive tool available to predict their ambulation. Gross motor skill achievements like age of achievement of neck holding as 9 months, sitting independently by the age of 2 years, crawling and all other milestones achievement by 30 months, along with postural reactions, infantile reflexes, cognitive, visual and hearing functions are proven to be the prognostic factors for prediction of ambulation. Even good upper extremity functions are positive prognostic factors for prediction of ambulation in cerebral palsy. Thai ambulation chart is also available which claims to guide the prognosis of ambulation in children with cerebral palsy. The reliability and validity of this tool is yet to be studied to use it as a prediction tool for ambulation in cerebral palsy. Further research is needed in this field to get an appropriate tool for prediction of ambulation in cerebral palsy which considers all the factors other than above mentioned factors.
Investigation Of Sexual Offences in India: A Guideline for Investigating Police Officer
Authors: Mr. Akash Trikha  , Prof. (Dr.) Prabir Kumar Pattnaik  , Dr. Chinmaya Kumar Mohapatra
Published: December 2023

Police are a crucial and one of the most vital parts of the system of criminal justice. The investigation conducted by the police is the foundation of the system of criminal justice; without a fair and sincere police investigation, we cannot expect justice to be served fairly. In the past few decades, it has been observed that sexual offenses in India have increased at an alarming rate. However, only a few instances result in prompt and successful investigations, which are essential for effective prosecution. The victim of a sexual offense faces plenty of issues such as social embarrassment, non-acceptance from certain people, etc. In India, most cases of sexual assault go unreported. For the establishment of safety for the citizens of the country, providing justice to the victim and punishment to the culprit is utterly necessary. In the system of criminal justice, police serve as the frontline personnel. But in many cases, it has been observed by the court that mistakes and carelessness of the investigation officers led to the acquittal of the accused/suspect. Criminal courts frequently point out that the investigating officers frequently make mistakes during their investigations, and most of the times these mistakes go unreported as well as get neglected all the way up to the senior police officials. The dearth of adequate training to improve the performance and effectiveness of the police involved in investigations, as well as the non-availability along with non-supply of the relevant legal sources and the pronouncements (judicial) of courts to the investigating agencies, all present challenges to the proper and effective investigation of crimes. For culprits, this neglectful attitude, dearth of sincerity towards the case, and carelessness of the investigation officers act as a boost to commit more such crimes. This raises questions about the power of the Indian judicial system to provide justice to the victim. This paper emphasizes on the guidelines that police should follow for a successful investigation in cases pertaining to sexual offenses. Also, the article explores how police officers can be trained through various methods to handle cases of sexual offenses.
Commonly Used Muscles Relaxant and Reversal Agents for Children Treated Under General Anaesthesia - A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Gajapriya M  , Lavanya Govindaraju
Published: December 2023

Background: Pediatric patients going through dental systems and who are incredibly uncooperative, unfortunate, restless, or actually safe without any assumption for conduct improvement are gone through for general anaesthesia (GA) to do the treatment. Changes in the training and advancement of general sedative medications have impacted the utilization of muscle relaxants and inversion specialists in pediatric patients. Aims: The aim of the review was to survey the commonly used muscle relaxant and reversal agents for pediatric patients treated under general anesthesia in Saveetha dental college from March 2020 to February 2021.  Setting and Design: A retrospective study was conducted on pediatric patients treated under general anesthesia to determine the commonly used muscle relaxants and reversal agents. Materials and Methods: From pediatric patients visiting private dental hospital, those who are treated under general anesthesia from March 2020 to February 2021 considered as inclusion . Exclusion criteria involve those who are not treated under general anesthesia. The final sample size 100. The age , gender, muscle relaxants and reversal agents prescribed were considered and tabulated and SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, Chicago,USA) was used to analyze the data. The results were compared using descriptive statistics and Chi-square-test. Then 0.05 was set to be a P value for the level of significance. Results: From the results of the study, atracurium(99%) and vecuronium(1%) were the commonly used muscle relaxants and neostigmine + glycopyrrolate(100%) was the commonly used reversal agents for pediatric patients treated under general anesthesia.  Conclusions: From the study , there were only a few standard drugs like  atracurium and vecuronium used as muscle relaxant and neostigmine + glycopyrrolate reversal agents were used for pediatric patients who were treated under general anesthesia .
The Effects of Working Remotely on Employee Productivity and Work-Life Balance
Authors: Koudagani Mamatha  , Kiran Kumar Thoti
Published: December 2023

This research study aims to examine the impact of remote work on work-life balance and employee productivity. The research goal is to provide insights and recommendations for organizations, policymakers, and employees to optimize remote work arrangements. The study explores various factors, including flexibility in work schedule, work environment, technological support, social interaction, and autonomy and self-management, in relation to work-life balance and employee productivity. The findings suggest that remote work offers employees increased flexibility and autonomy over their work schedules, leading to improved work-life integration and satisfaction. However, challenges such as blurred boundaries and social isolation can affect work-life balance negatively. Regarding productivity, remote work presents opportunities for increased focus and reduced commuting time, yet collaboration and task management can be challenging. The study highlights the importance of appropriate technological support, communication tools, and a supportive work environment in determining employee productivity. The suggested implications include implementing policies and practices to support work-life balance, establishing clear boundaries, and fostering a supportive virtual work culture. By addressing these implications, organizations can optimize remote work arrangements and promote work-life balance and productivity among employees.
An Enhanced and Dynamic Key AES Algorithm for Internet of Things Data Security
Authors: Dhamodharan G
Published: December 2023

Internet of Things (IoT) applications have become ubiquitous in various aspects of daily life, including smart homes, healthcare, and other areas where human assistance is crucial. However, the valuable real-world data collected by IoT devices and transmitted over the Internet have become a prime target for numerous malicious actors and hackers. Therefore, ensuring secure communication to prevent unauthorized access to this transmitted data is of paramount importance. This research is dedicated to the development of a robust security system for IoT to protect sensor data. Traditionally, IoT systems have relied on fixed encryption keys shared between transmitters and receivers, which presented vulnerabilities as these keys could be easily compromised. In this study, we introduce an enhanced version of the AES algorithm with dynamic keys. In this modified algorithm, each cycle involves the XOR operation of four keywords with the sequence number. Each round of the AES algorithm incorporates various transformations, including DivideSwap, SubBytes, ShiftRows, MixColumns, and AddRoundKey, with the exception of the final round, which excludes the MixColumns operation. To implement and test this upgraded security approach, we utilized hardware components such as the Arduino Uno, ESP8266, and DHT11 sensors. The enhanced AES algorithm was integrated into the Arduino Uno to secure sensor data before transmission across the network. The results of our analysis demonstrate that the proposed IoT security method presents a significantly higher level of cryptographic resilience compared to the traditional AES algorithm, making it a robust solution for safeguarding IoT data.
The Effect of Intermittent Fasting and Caloric Restricted Diet on Diabetic Rats
Authors: Naeem M. Rabeh  , Omnia G. Refaat  , Mayan T. Hamada
Published: December 2023

The present study was aimed to investigate the effect of intermittent fasting and caloric restricted diet (RD) for 8 weeks on diabetic rats. Forty-nine adult male albino rats were divided into two main groups; the first main group was fed only on basal diet and served as negative control group and the second main group: diabetic rats were induced by a single intra-peritoneal injection of freshly prepared STZ (60 mg/kg BW) then divided into 6 subgroups: Subgroup (1) was fed only on basal diet and was served as positive cont. Subgroup (2) was fed on RD only. Subgroups (3, 4) were fed on basal diet and were deprived of food except water from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. twice a week and every other day, respectively. Subgroups (5, 6): were fed on RD and intermittent fasting twice a week and every other day, respectively. The results indicated that RD and intermittent fasting significantly decreased the final body weight, feed intake and body weight gain % values as compared to the positive control rats. Diabetic treated rats had significant increase (p<0.05) in insulin concentration and lower glucose levels as well as an improvement in liver functions and lipid profile as compared to the positive control group. Conclusion: the findings suggest that intermittent fasting and caloric restricted diet could have a potential role in managing diabetes.
Isparta-Türkiye'de Yetişen Çilek Ağacı (Arbutus andrachne L.) Meyvelerinin Çeşitlilik Analizi
Authors: TIĞLI KAYTANLIOĞLU Ebru Hatice , FAKİR Hüseyin , ÖZKAN Uğur , ŞAHİN Candan
Published: December 2023

Yetişme ortamları bitkilerden elde edilen ürünlerin kalitesine birçok yönden etkileyebilir. Farklı oranlarda kimyasal madde içeren meyveler, özelliklerin farklı olmasına neden olabilir. Bu çalışmada, Isparta Orman Bölge Müdürlüğü yetki alanındaki dört farklı coğrafi bölgeden toplanan Çilek Ağaçlarından (Arbutus andrachne L.) toplanan meyvelerin bazı özellikleri incelenmiştir.

Meyve örnekleri arasında önemli fizikokimyasal farklılıklar bulunmuştur. Numuneler arasında en yüksek renk farklı numune IV (ΔE: 15,4) ile ve daha sonra sırasıyla numune I (ΔE: 15,1), numune III (ΔE: 7,6) ve numune II (ΔE: 3,6) de gözlemlenmiştir. Ancak meyvelerin boyut özellikleri (çap ve ağırlık) bazı farklılıklar göstermektedir. En yüksek ortalama çap (12,42 mm) ve ağırlık (1,13 g) ile birlikte şeker içeriği 33,81 °Bx ile numune I'de hesaplanmıştır. Numuneler arasında şeker oranı, fark edilebilir olarak daha düşük çapa sahip fakat daha yüksek ağırlığa sahip meyvelerde hesaplanmış, çap artışı ile ağırlık azalması arasında ilişki gözlemlenmiştir. Ayrıca, numune I için 43 ve numune IV için 35 uçucu yağ bileşiği tespit edilmiş, bunlardan 31'inin her iki meyve örneklerinde de olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Bu ortak bileşikler, toplam uçucu yağ oranının numune I için %97.07’ini numune IV için ise %91,78’ini oluşturduğu hesaplanmıştır. Bu çalışmada elde edilen verilerden, A. andrachne meyvelerinin fizikokimyasal özelliklerinin, coğrafi yetişme ortamlarının açıklanması bakımından bir gösterge olabileceği olarak değerlendirilmiştir.
İngiliz Atlarında Bazı Doğum ve Doğuma İlişkin Özellikler ile Tay Davranışları
Authors: Paksoy Yavuzkan , Güngör Ömer Faruk
Published: December 2023

Bu çalışma Safkan İngiliz kısraklarda bazı doğum ve taylarında davranış özellikleri ile bunlara etkisi olan bazı faktörlerin belirlenmesi amacı ile yapılmıştır. Araştırma, Adana Yavuz Star Harasında 2021-2022 yılları arasında yürütülmüş olup toplam 63 kısrağın ve bunların taylarının bazı özellikleri takip edilmiştir. Çalışmada kısraklarda ortalama canlı ağırlık (CA) 499.27±3.68 kg, doğum süresi 14.63±1.28 dk, kolostrum yoğunluğu %23.81±0.69, eş atma süresi 126.57±28.92 dk ve plasenta ağırlığının 6.47±0.20 kg olduğu belirlenmiştir. Doğumların görülme sıklığının 18.00 ve 24.00 saatleri arasında arttığı (%36.5) ve doğum yılı ile zamanının (Gece, Gündüz) doğum süresine etkisinin önemli (P=0.004; P=0.010) olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Taylarda doğum ağırlığı, ilk ayağa kalkmaya kadar geçen süre ve ilk emmeye kadar geçen sürelerin ortalamaları sırasıyla 54.34±1.01 kg, 87.19±7.92 ve 114.24±11.96 dk olmuştur. Doğum yılı, doğum ayı, kısrak yaşı, cinsiyet ve doğum zamanının ilk ayağa kalkma süresi üzerine etkisinin önemli (P=0.018; P=0.027; P=0.032; P=0.005; P=0.004) olduğu belirlenmiştir. Sonuç olarak, taylarda ilk ayağa kalkma ve ilk emmeye kadar geçen sürelerin tay cinsiyeti ve doğum zamanından etkilendiği; kan uyuşmazlığı, kolostrum kalitesi düşüklüğü ve eş atma süresinin uzaması problemlerinin görülme sıklığının yüksek olduğu belirlenmiştir.
Tetrazolato Ligandı ve Pt(II) Kompleksinin DNA Etkileşiminin Moleküler Doking Yöntemi ile Belirlenmesi
Authors: Okuş Fatma , Yüzbaşıoğlu Deniz , Çakmak Gonca , Sarı Nurşen , Ünal Fatma
Published: December 2023

Dünyada en çok ölüme neden olan hastalıklar arasında ikinci sırada yer alan kanserin tedavisinde platin(II) temelli ilaçlar önemli yer tutmaktadır. Yüksek etkinlik nedeniyle sıklıkla tercih edilen bu ilaçların kullanımını, yan etkileri ve direnç gelişimi gibi olumsuzluklar kısıtlamaktadır. Pt(II) iyonunu içeren moleküllerin DNA ile etkileştiği bilindiğinden, bu iyonu DNA’ya taşıyacak düşük toksisiteli bir ligandın geliştirilmesi önem kazanmıştır. Düşük toksisiteli olmaları nedeniyle ilaç çalışmalarında kullanımları desteklenen tetrazol halkası ve Schiff bazı grubu içeren ligant (tetrazolato) ve onun Pt(II) kompleksi sunulan çalışmaya konu olmuştur. Bu çalışmada tetrazolato ligandı ve onun kompleksinin farklı baz dizilimlerine sahip DNA yapıları ile etkileşimi, hem tek başına ligandın esnek olduğu “doking” ve hem de ligant-DNA yapılarının aynı anda esnek olduğu “esnek doking” yöntemleri kullanılarak araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Bulgular, hem ligandın hem de onun Pt(II) kompleksinin tüm DNA yapılarına yüksek afinitesi olduğunu göstermektedir. Doking çalışmasındaki etkileşimler, en düşük: -5.225 kcal mol-1, en yüksek: -8.186 kcal mol-1 ve esnek doking çalışması için ise en düşük: -5.941 kcal mol-1, en yüksek: -7.967 kcal mol-1 olarak belirlenmiştir.
The Evaluation of psbA-trnH IGS Sequences in The Genus Potentilla L. as Barcoding Region
Authors: YILMAZ Aykut
Published: December 2023

The genus Potentilla with the species over 400 has wide distribution area causing the variations in morphological characters. Besides its wide distribution area, many situations such as hybridization, introgression, autopolyploidy and allopolyploidy are observed in the genus. All of them can be also reasons for misclassifications and the finally taxonomic problems. DNA barcoding studies have a great importance in solving of taxonomic and phylogenetic problems, in addition to their species identification abilities. However, DNA sequences preferred may not be equally effective in different plant groups in aspect of species identification and separation abilities. For this aim, here psbA-trnH IGS sequences belonging to the Potentilla taxa were examined based on their compatibility and analysed variable sites, parsim-info sites and nucleotide frequencies (%) for the region relevant by using Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis (MEGA 11). Finally, Maximum Parsimony (MP) dendrogram was performed to evaluate the Potentilla taxa as taxonomically and phylogenetically. It can be stated that the taxa belonging to the genus Potentilla were well grouped in the dendrogram and the using of psbA-trnH IGS sequences is strongly recommended for further studies.
Determination of Phenolic Contents and Antioxidant Activities in Different Solvents of Hatila Valley and Macahel Bee Products in Artvin, Turkey
Authors: BOZKUŞ Tuğba Nigar
Published: December 2023

This study determines the extracts of bee products prepared with different solvents in terms of phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the Hatila Valley and Macahel region of Artvin, Turkey. For this purpose, water and ethanol extracts of royal jelly and honey; water, ethanol, 70% ethanol, propylene glycol and 70% propylene glycol extracts of pollen and propolis were analyzed by total polyphenol and flavonoid content, and ferric reducing power.

The results of the analyzes indicated that Macahel honey and propolis had higher phenolic content and antioxidant activity than Hatila honey and propolis. Hatila bee products were ranked as propolis > pollen > royal jelly > honey in terms of phenolic content and antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activities of Hatila Valley and Macahel bee products vary depending on the amount of phenolic compounds in their structures. Furthermore, when Hatila, Macahel, and Hatila + Macahel propolis were compared in terms of polyphenol and flavonoid content and ferric reducing power, the order was Macahel propolis > Hatila + Macahel propolis > Hatila propolis. A statistically significant difference was found between 70% ethanol and 70% propylene glycol and water, and although these solvents had higher solubility, the lowest solubility was in water. These differences vary depending on the geographical location, botanical and climatic variations of the region where the bee products are collected, and the solvent used for the extraction. Therefore, rather than using a single propolis sample for various sectors such as the food, medical and cosmetic industries, propolis mixtures may be suitable for different applications.
In vitro Determination of Salt Stress Responses of OH×F 333 and OH×F 97 Pear Clone Rootstocks
Authors: UYDURAN Elif , ŞAN Bekir
Published: December 2023

In this study, the responses of OH×F 333 and OH×F 97 pear clone rootstocks to salt stress were investigated. For this purpose, in vitro plants of OH×F 333 and OH×F 97 pear clone rootstocks were cultured in ½ MS medium containing different concentrations of salt (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mM NaCl). In order to adapt the plants to salt stress, the doses of NaCl added to the medium were gradually increased at weekly intervals. In the experiment, in parallel with the increasing salt stress, the regeneration rate and shoot number values decreased, while the degree of damage increased significantly. It was determined that most of the shoots died in the application of 200 mM NaCl. When the effects of different salt concentrations on biochemical parameters were examined, it was determined that total phenolics, total flavonoids, proline and soluble protein contents decreased, while lipid peroxidation increased in parallel with salt concentrations. However, it was determined that there was an increase in the total phenolic and flavonoid contents in 150 mM NaCl application.
Medical Cannabis for Chronic Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Dutch Veterans: A Health Care Evaluation
Authors: Vermetten Eric , Wit Julia
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Medical cannabis has emerged as a promising treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), particularly among veterans. Given the high prevalence of PTSD in this population and the limited availability of effective therapeutic options, medical cannabis has garnered increased interest. However, evidence remains scarce endorsing its efficacy and patients' experiences with this treatment. Method: To gain more insight into patients' experiences with medical cannabis, we interviewed 18 Dutch veterans diagnosed with chronic PTSD who were prescribed off-label medical cannabis for symptom relief at an outpatient clinic in the Dutch Military Mental Health Service. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, followed by a framework analysis with thematic coding. Results: A group of 18 patients turned to medical cannabis as an alternative to traditional treatments due to persistent symptoms iof PTSD. Of these, 15 continued using the Bediol strain, primarily before bedtime to aid sleep. They reported significant improvements, including increased peace of mind and reduced irritability. Although patients expressed satisfaction, they often asked assistance in dosage and reimbursement. Despite initial reservations from some family members, there was notable support, signaling a changing perception of medical cannabis through increased education. However, a few patients still faced lingering stigma. Through the analysis, five overarching themes were identified: (1) assessment phase, (2) intervention phase, (3) termination phase, (4) access and availability, and (5) social support. Conclusion: Based on the data collected, we advocate for the continued prescription of medical cannabis, as most of the interviewed patients reported positive effects, including alleviation of core symptoms like sleep disturbances, irritability, and hyperarousal. Secondly, we recommend the continued reimbursement of medical cannabis due to its positive impacts, as many patients expressed potential financial hardship if this reimbursement were halted. Furthermore, we propose the appointment of a cannabis coach to provide patient-centered care. Reliable information on cannabis use is often challenging for patients to access, and proper use, including dosage, strain, cannabidiol (CBD) to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) ratio, and timing of administration, is essential to ensure optimal benefits and minimize risks. Lastly, we emphasize the necessity for further research, including longitudinal studies and randomized controlled trials, to explore individualized treatment approaches that work best under specific conditions. Greater clarity on dosages and product selection is also essential to minimize confusion and potential over- or under-consumption risks. Overall, these recommendations can guide the advancement of medical cannabis treatment for chronic PTSD in veterans, enhancing patient outcomes and paving the way for evidence-based practices.
Rapidly Adapting a Multicomponent Treatment for Persons Experiencing Chronic Homelessness with Comorbid Substance Use and Mental Health Disorders During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic
Authors: Shaffer Paige , Helm Abigail , Andre Michael , Reaves Herschelle , Bruzios Kathryn , Harter Jennifer , Smelson David
Published: December 2023

Background: People with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders (COD) who experience chronic homelessness often have difficulty engaging in treatment and support services. During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic this problem was compounded by community agencies reducing or eliminating in-person care to minimize transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This study examined the rapid adaptations that were made during COVID-19 to a community-based multicomponent intervention, Maintaining Independence and Sobriety Thorough Systems Integration, Outreach and Networking (MISSION), and how these changes impacted engagement in treatment and fidelity to the intervention prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Guided by the Model for Adaptation Design and Impact (MADI) framework, this mixed-methods study (1) qualitatively examines the nature of the rapid adaptations made to the MISSION model with n=4 MISSION clinical program staff and (2) quantitatively examines patterns of engagement and fidelity to the MISSION model prior to and during the pandemic among n=109 people with COD who are experiencing chronic homelessness in an urban region of Massachusetts. Results: In consultation with the MISSION developers, clinical staff made rapid innovative adaptations to MISSION. These changes, identified through the qualitative interviews, included developing safe in-person session procedures (e.g., shortening sessions, adapting group sessions to individual sessions) and strategies to engage incarcerated individuals to provide continuity of care (e.g., mailing letters and coordinating with jail staff). Despite the adaptations, adherence to the MISSION model remained consistent during COVID-19 and compared to pre-COVID-19. However, there was more adherence to the structured components of care compared to the unstructured components of care during the pandemic. Interestingly, linkages to other needed treatments and community supports increased by 522% despite the pandemic closures. Conclusions: This mixed-methods study demonstrated that a community-based multicomponent intervention for people experiencing chronic homelessness with COD can be adapted rapidly during a pandemic to help maintain COD treatment and with good fidelity, and that the MADI framework can help document those changes. Thus, these findings provide treatment settings with helpful guidance for community-based COD interventions and public health emergency preparedness.
The Preclinical Study Exploring the Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Renal Antioxidant Enzymes Following Doxorubicin Treatment
Authors: Busekrus Raquel , Hydock David
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Doxorubicin is an effective chemotherapy drug, but its use is limited by its cytotoxicity. One of doxorubicin’s anticancer mechanisms is generation of reactive oxygen species which may lead to oxidative stress. The kidney, however, is very vulnerable to oxidative stress, and one way to manage oxidative stress is to scavenge reactive oxygen species via antioxidant enzymes. Although doxorubicin-induced oxidative stress has been extensively studied, a viable treatment to attenuate doxorubcin side effects has yet to be found. This study investigated the effect of creatine feeding on catalase, glutathione peroxide, and superoxide dismutase-1 expression in the kidney following doxorubicin treatment. Methods: Twenty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups, control saline (C+SAL, n=7), control doxorubicin (C+DOX, n=7), creatine saline (Cr+SAL, n=6) and creatine doxorubicin (Cr+DOX, n=8). Control groups were fed normal chow, and creatine groups were fed chow supplemented with 3% creatine. After two weeks of feeding, doxorubicin groups received15 mg/kg doxorubicin whereas saline groups received saline as a placebo. Western blotting was used to access antioxidant enzyme expression in renal tissue. Results: A significant between group difference was observed with catalase expression, but post hoc testing did not reveal where differences existed. A trend existed toward doxorubicin treatment increasing catalase expression and creatine attenuated this trend. Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase-1 presented a similar profile as catalase; however, no significant between group differences were observed. There was a trend, however, toward increased expression of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase-1 in doxorubicin-treated animals that seemed to be attenuated with creatine supplementation. Conclusion: To our knowledge there are no studies exploring the antioxidant properties of creatine supplementation in the kidney with doxorubicin, and it is possible that creatine may enhance antioxidant properties that can attenuate the negative effects doxorubicin in the kidney. A trend towards antioxidant enzyme normalization promoted by creatine with doxorubicin suggests that creatine might have similar effect to that observed in previous studies using antioxidant drugs.
The Emerging Role of Vestibular Stimulation in Brain Rehabilitation: A Representative Case Report
Authors: Kukurin George , Audren Corissa
Published: December 2023

The number of literature reports suggesting that various types of electrical, optokinetic, caloric, and mechanical vestibular stimulation may enhance recovery of function in patients suffering from traumatic and degenerative brain disorders is growing. This case report describes the integration of vestibular stimulation techniques into a rehabilitation treatment plan of a traumatically brain injured 16-year-old patient who had failed to sustain recovery after a course of standard care. His intractable signs and symptoms included headache, brain fog/mild cognitive impairment and disequilibrium which made participation in his chosen sport, hockey, virtually impossible. His symptoms developed following a concussion while playing hockey. He was treated by the team’s designated sports specialist and eventually cleared to return to play, however he was rapidly re-concussed. At the time he presented for evaluation, a battery of tests was conducted and clearly supported the reoccurrence of his symptoms. His baseline scores were Graded Symptom Checklist symptom severity 46, Standard Assessment of Concussion 25/30, BESS Balance Score 14, Trails Test A 15.0, Trails Test B 27.4, Processing Speed Task 63, Reaction time simple 255 and Reaction time choice 469. Standard methods of rehabilitation including Gaze Stabilization Exercises and Progressive Balance Exercises were augmented with vestibular stimulation through the use of skull vibrations and optokinetic stimulation. After 18 treatments over approximately six weeks of rehabilitation augmented with vestibular stimulation, findings associated with mTBI normalized and he was able to resume his full participation in sporting activities. His post treatment scores were. Graded Symptom Checklist symptom severity 1, Standard Assessment of Concussion 24/30, BESS Balance Score 5, Trails Test A 12.4, Trails Test B 34.0, Processing Speed Task 64, Reaction time simple 245 and Reaction time choice 385. He remained asymptomatic at 4 months follow-up post discharge and is participating fully in team hockey activities. This case report describes the integration of vestibular stimulation into neurorehabilitation protocols which appeared to be associated with sustained reduction in disability and improved treatment-refractory symptoms in a patient with traumatic brain injury. It adds to the growing knowledgebase supporting the role of vestibular stimulation as an adjunct modality in the rehabilitation of brain disorders.
Preparation of extemporaneous solutions with chemotherapeutic agents for pediatric patients: Ensuring safe and effective treatment
Authors: Barreto Larissa
Published: December 2023

The treatment of pediatric oncology patients involves the use of specialized drugs adapted to their specific needs, thus, in view of the need for pharmacotherapeutic follow-up with oral dosage forms (ODF), in the unavailability of liquid formulations, a strategy is the preparation of extemporaneous solutions from the manipulation of tablets and capsules added to liquid vehicles (eg: water, simple syrup) adjusting palatability and facilitating access. This review article will serve as a guide, providing information on the preparation, stability and storage of extemporaneous oral chemotherapy formulations (tablets, capsules, injection powder or injection solution) for use in clinical practice, with the aim of promoting adherence to treatment linked to safety and effectiveness, based on good handling practices and occupational risk. The results of this review are summarized in a table and based on a composition of the cited documents, tests carried out and the authors' judgment on all the data collected. Twenty drugs were identified as potentially important for clinical practice. Strategies for preparing extemporaneous solutions of chemotherapeutic agents for pediatric patients require more scientific data or even publications of adaptations used. Even with the scarcity of data for some drugs, this review covers the most trivial drugs in clinical practice, including information on preparation, warning about stability and storage, and also included relevant guidelines on the mode of administration in view of the adherence and effectiveness of the drug. The professional who handles these cytotoxic drugs needs to understand from pharmacotechnical aspects and guard against exposure in the preparation, so that he can continue to guarantee access and adherence to treatment and follow rigorous literature and protocols, implementing the best practices and providing adequate, effective, and personalized treatment.
Did a small thermosensitive intron contribute to the temperate adaptation of Drosophila melanogaster?
Authors: Edery Isaac
Published: December 2023

Drosophila melanogaster was first used for research in the early 1900’s by scientists located in the northeastern corridor of the United States, gaining prominence with the establishment of the famous “fly room” by Thomas Hunt Morgan at Columbia University circa1908. Several reasons for using D. melanogaster in research are well known; easy and inexpensive to breed, short lifespan, amongst others. But why was this insect species flourishing in a temperate northeast region of the New World during the late 1800’s when they originated in the tropical forests of sub-Saharan Africa millions of years ago? The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the experimental underpinnings for a temperature sensitive mechanism that likely contributed to the rather unique ability of Drosophila melanogaster to successfully colonize temperate regions on a global scale. It also furnishes an interesting historical insight into how ancestral genetics serendipitously held the keys to the journey of D. melanogaster becoming such a popular research organism. While numerous papers have been published detailing different aspects of the work, this is the first comprehensive review. Herein, I discuss the discovery of a small thermosensitive intron in D. melanogaster (termed dmpi8) that controls midday siesta levels. Like many day-active animals, Drosophila exhibits a robust genetically based midday siesta that is protective in warm climates. Yet long bouts of daytime inactivity might be counterproductive in temperate climates, especially since daylength in these regions is shorter during the cooler months. Evidence discussed in this review strongly indicates that targeting of dmpi8 splicing efficiency by natural selection enhanced the ability of D. melanogaster to scale daytime sleep levels commensurate with a wide range of local climates. Surprisingly, dmpi8 splicing regulates midday siesta levels in trans by controlling the expression of a nearby anti-siesta gene called daywake. The “fortuitous” genetic arrangement of a thermosensitive intron in proximity to an anti-siesta gene might have contributed to the cosmopolitan nature of D. melanogaster and its historical journey in becoming a popular research organism.
Ensemble PyrocarbonTM Hemiarthroplasty for the Treatment of Painful Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Arthritis with Sparing of the Trapezium
Authors: Lofink Spencer , Trumble Thomas
Published: December 2023

Due to its remarkable mechanical properties and excellent biocompatibility, PyrocarbonTM is an ideal material for articular use. Various Pyrocarbon implants for the hand and wrist have been developed over the past 25 years. The Ensemble implant is unique in that it can be inserted as a minimally invasive hemiarthroplasty technique that does not require any preparation to insert a stem into the thumb metacarpal. The device has a unique three-dimensional design that locks onto the surface of the trapezium without requiring any internal fixation. We report on our first 12 cases with 1 year follow-up. There was significant improvement in the DASH score and pinch strength at 1 year follow-up (p< 0.5) with no significant decrease in thumb motion or instances of dislocation. One patient was revised due to rapid progression arthritis at the scaphoid trapezial interface that required revision to an arthroplasty with complete removal of the trapezium.
COPD and Unexplained Hypoxaemia: a combination to be explored
Authors: Frizzelli Rino
Published: December 2023

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a slowly progressive disease characterized by inflammation that involves the airways, lung parenchyma, and pulmonary vasculature commonly associated with lung function decline and alveolar impairment of gas exchange. All these alterations can lead to hypoxaemia. In COPD hypoxaemia presenting refractory to very high concentration of inspired O2 with a drop of SpO2 (peripheral saturation) > 5% during the upright position and an improvement on recumbency (platypnea/ortodeoxya syndrome) can be suspect for righ-to-left shunt, e.g. intrapulmonary shunt or most frequently a patent foramen ovale. Among COPD patients, several studies showed a higher prevalence of patent foramen ovale than in general population (70% versus 35%). Chest imaging and echocardiogram with bubble contrast should be the first clinical assessment to differentiate subjects with intracardiac shunt (such as in Patent foramen ovale) from those with extracardiac (or intrapulmonary) one. Definitive treatment of right-to-left shunt involves percutaneous closure but literature provides conflicting data about indications and results, particularly regarding selection of COPD patients to be subjected to such intervention. Several key factors should be taken into account from a clinical and ethical point of view: first periprocedural complications, then echocardiographic assessment of right ventricular systolic and diastolic performance should be performed to rule out severe pulmonary hypertension and to avoid further post-procedure clinical deterioration; in addition, quality of life should be assessed. In our experience, among 12 patients with patent foramen ovale 5 were affected by COPD GOLD III with refractory hypoxaemia. After evaluation of right ventricular performance, only 2 patients were eligible for patent foramen ovale closure with the Amplatzer device; long-term follow-up showed discontinuation of oxygen therapy and improvement in quality of life. Therefore, COPD patients with hypoxaemia refractory to high O2 supplementation must be thoroughly assessed taking into account a careful history and a targeted physical examination. The presence of patent foramen ovale should raise suspicion of a right-to-left shunt. If a patent foramen ovale is identified, evaluation of pulmonary function, right ventricular systolic reserve, and severity of pulmonary hypertension is mandatory for closure. The development of a multidisciplinary team to conduct a multicenter study is necessary to understand if and when the right-to-left shunt in COPD can benefit from this novel therapy.
"Suffer the little children (to go to school)”: how the same evidence base drove diametrically opposite views of what was best to do for children and their health/education in the 2020-2023 COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden and the UK
Authors: Goldsmith David
Published: December 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic (2020-23) was a global outbreak of a novel coronavirus (nCoV), an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS- CoV-2) virus. The pandemic disease is usually described as COVID-19. 1 The first cases of nCoV were first detected in China in December 2019, with the virus spreading rapidly over months to most other countries across the world. This led WHO to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on 30 January 2020, and to characterise the outbreak as a pandemic on 11 March 2020. 2 In May 2023, more than three years into the pandemic, the WHO Emergency Committee on COVID-19 recommended to the Director-General that given the disease was by now well- established and ongoing, it no longer fitted the definition of a PHEIC. This did not mean that the pandemic itself was declared over, but the global emergency it had caused was. Debate and speculation about the causation pathway for the entry of this nCoV pathogen into humans in 2019, though intense and contested, are not germane to the present discussion. What is germane is the huge death toll, and, just as important, the long-term impacts on society and health it has left in its wake. For a more detailed review see 3 . As a result of the pandemic infections, and also of the many different mitigation strategies employed to “protect” people from the ravages of infection, there were diverse consequences for all affected populations: from deaths, hospitalisations, chronic illness, the economy, employment, education, services, work habits, transport systems across to acute severe strain imposed on healthcare systems faced simultaneously with “business as usual” healthcare demands (often suppressed with later adverse consequences) and by a poorly understood and barely characterised viral infection ‘tsunami’ requiring both “surge” facilities and advanced ITU capabilities which were often unavailable, or inadequate to the tasks at hand. 4 Various mitigations were put in place in different parts of the world, and these typically involved restrictions (sometimes voluntary, sometimes legally enforced) being placed on freedom of movement, behaviour (mask wearing, hand washing), education, employment, social activities and travel 5-8 . Later, specific pharmaceutical interventions 9 and of course vaccination 10 were brought to bear.
Hope and the Numinous: Psychological Concepts for Promoting Wellness in a Medical Context A secular model for understanding spiritual outcomes
Authors: Piedmont Ralph , Fox Jesse
Published: December 2023

Hope is an indispensable component for living a life of meaning, value, and well-being. Hope enables us to manage stressors, threats, failures, and personal doubts while helping us to stay focused on our goals and strivings. The purpose of this paper is to understand the construct of hope within a new dimension of personality termed the Numinous. The Numinous represents those underlying motivations that address our existential engagement with life centering around our needs to find value for our efforts, construct meaning and purpose for our strivings, and to create a sense of personal worthiness for our being. Hope is particularly relevant to the Numinous dimension of meaning. The Numinous model provides a multidimensional approach to understanding the various elements of meaning and how they combine to create various meaning orientations. Hope’s full range of expression is outlined across four different meaning types. The value of the Numinous for healthcare providers and its role in managing patients is overviewed.