bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sacubitril/valsartan increased survival via inhibiting inflammation and myocardiofibrosis in Takotsubo-like cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kuang Jiangying , Jia Zhiyi , Chong Tou Kun , Chen Jian , Liu Kan , Cadeiras Martin , Li Zhaohua , Zhang Jing , Kong Yanru , Wang Xin , Sun Rong , Lu Qinghua , Liu Yusheng
Published: April 2024

Background: Takotsubo syndrome mostly manifests as stress-induced cardiomyopathy after physical or emotional stress. However, the exact pathological mechanism of TTS remains unclear, and specific therapies are still lacking. Therefore, we investigated the potential therapeutic effect and mechanism of sacubitril/valsartan (sac/val) on preventing myocarditis and fibrosis in patients with TTS. This study detected inflammatory responses, myocardial edema, fibrosis, etc., in TTS individuals and investigated whether sac/val increased the survival of TTS patients and reversed the remodeling of TTS animal hearts in vivo and investigated the effects of anti-myocardial inflammation and fibrosis in vitro.
Methods: Based on the Chinese Takotsubo syndrome (ChiTTS) registry, clinical cases were enrolled to investigate survival. Isoprenaline-induced Takotsubo-like animal models were established, and the animals were pretreated with sac/val. In addition, the effects of isoprenaline on cardiomyocyte and myocardial fibroblasts and protection from rhBNP were studied in detail.
Results: In the TTS group diagnosed with an LVEF ≤ 0.45, hyperglycemia, emotional stress and inflammation were found to be independent risk factors. Moreover, the baseline characteristics of the TTS patients, heart rate, emotional triggers, female sex (%), WBC count, IL-6 concentration, PCT, ALT, AST and TG were significantly associated with decreasing left ventricular ejection fraction. Sac/val decreased inflammation, as indicated by white blood cells and interleukin-6, in TTS patients compared with that in patients not receiving sac/val on day 30. During the follow-up, the percentage of surviving patients increased significantly in the TTS group treated with sac/val compared with the group not treated with sac/val at 30 days and 1 year. In animal models, Sac/val improved cardiac dysfunction in ISO-induced TTS-like cardiomyopathy and decreased myocardial inflammatory responses (IL-18 and Mac-3) by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB pathway and fibrosis through the inhibition of the TGFβ1/Smad pathway.
Conclusions: This study revealed that sac/val decreased inflammatory responses, myocardial edema, fibrosis, etc., resulting in an increase in the percentage of surviving TTS patients. Like in vivo and in vitro experiments, Sac/val exerted cardioprotective effects by decreasing the inflammatory response and reversing myocardial remodeling. Overall, these findings demonstrate the anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects of sac/val in individuals with TTS.
Study of Sargassum muticum impact on the surrounding algae in the Moroccan Atlantic coast
Authors: HANIF Noura
Published: April 2024

The study carried out in two sites of the Moroccan Atlantic coasts (El-Jadida and Lahdida) to evaluate the effect of the invasive speciesSargassum muticum(brown algae), shows that it has negative effects on the distribution of the surrounding algae. It has been noted that there is a higher abundance of this species in the El-Jadida area as it is a more polluted site than Lahdida. This promotes its rapid proliferation in this area and has negative effects on other naturally occurring species in the same area.Sargassum muticumhas very high resistance to abrupt changes in environmental parameters and deprives other species of mineral salts and light due to the lengthening of its thalli which can reach more than 2.5 meters in March in El Jadida area. It is therefore concluded that the presence of the invasive speciesSargassum muticumhas caused an imbalance in its growth media because it has physiological characteristics of resistance and rapid regeneration that allow it to proliferate at the expense of other species.
Revolutionizing Cancer Therapy: Artificial Intelligence-Controlled Nanorobots for Precise and Non-Invasive Tumor Eradication
Authors: S Subasree , R Deepa , P Soundarya , P Nidhishkumar
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a paradigm-shifting approach to cancer treatment, leveraging the synergistic potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and nanotechnology leading to precise and efficient tumor eradication. Cancer, a complex disease characterized by uncontrolled cellular growth and tumor formation, presents a formidable challenge to conventional therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. These treatments often have debilitating side effects and long recovery periods, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative solutions. Our proposed solution represents a ground-breaking advancement in the field, centered around the development of nanorobots equipped with sophisticated AI algorithms. These nanorobots are carefully engineered to autonomously navigate the complex landscape of the human body, selectively identifying and removing cancerous cells while protecting healthy tissue from collateral damage. This novel therapeutic approach offers a paradigm shift from invasive interventions, reducing patient side effects and speeding recovery time. At the heart of this transformative technology lies the Nanobot prototype, which integrates sophisticated software enabling real-time detection and precise deployment of therapeutic agents tailored to the specific tumor type and location. Harnessing the power of AI, these nanorobots have unparalleled adaptability and responsiveness, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. This innovative approach represents a significant leap forward in cancer treatment, providing a more targeted, efficient and patient-centered alternative to conventional methods. While the concept presented is currently conceptual, it serves as a visionary blueprint for the future integration of nanotechnology and AI in cancer therapy. Through collaborative efforts and continued advances in research and development, this transformative technology holds the promise of reshaping the landscape of cancer treatment, ushering in a new era of precision medicine and improving patient outcomes.
Imatinib-resistant Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Patients' BCR-ABL1 Kinase Domain Mutations in the Eastern Indian Population
Authors: Kumar Ajeet , Tilak Vijai , Kumar Nilesh , Ali Akhtar
Published: April 2024

Chronic myeloid leukemia is a bone marrow cancer that spreads slowly. Platelets (thrombocytes), which aid in blood clotting, white blood cells (leukocytes), which protect the body from infection, and red blood cells (erythrocytes), which supply oxygen, are all produced by normal bone marrow. In chronic myeloid leukemia, the bone marrow produces an abnormally large amount of white blood cells. At first, these cells appear to function correctly. However, as the disease progresses, the blood and bone marrow become overpopulated with immature white blood cells known as myeloblasts, also known as blasts. Overgrowth of myeloblasts hinders the generation of other blood cells, resulting in anemia (low red blood cell count) and platelet shortage. In twelve CML patients who either lost their response or did not obtain it within the allotted timeframes, we examined the pattern of kinase domain mutations. The most frequent reason to request a mutation investigation was loss of molecular responsiveness. It was discovered that four patients had identifiable mutations. We identified four mutations: E255V, L387M, T315I, and F359S in our cohort.
Fischer-tropsch synthesis: effect of temperature and iron-cobalt ratio in Fe-Co/meso-HZSM-5 catalyst on liquid product distribution
Authors: Jimmy Jimmy , Rastini Endah Kusuma , Santoso Aman
Published: April 2024

The Fischer-Tropsch synthesis converted hydrogen and carbon monoxide into linear hydrocarbons as liquid fuel. Iron and cobalt were used as polymerization catalyst, that impregnated on HZSM-5. The Fe-Co/HZSM-5 could be applied as bifunction catalyst which combined polymerizing synthesis gas and long chain hydrocarbon cracking for making biofuel. The objective of this study is observing the effect of temperature and composition of iron and cobalt combination, supported by HSZM-5 (Fe-Co/HZSM-5) catalyst on fuel product composition. The results obtained from this study would be used to find optimum condition for various iron and cobalt ratio in the catalyst. The mesoHZSM-5 was prepared from ammonium ZSM-5 over calcination, desilication, and dispersion. The mixed solution consisted of Co(NO3)2.6H2O and Fe(NO3)3.9H2O were used as precursor for incipient wetness impregnation on HZSM-5. The catalyst performance was observed in a continuous fixed bed reactor using Fe-Co/meso-HZSM-5 catalyst with synthesis gas at various composition iron and cobalt ratio (10–40 % wt. Fe in Co), various temperature (225–275 °C) at 20 bars. All catalysts were reduced in situ in the reactor. The 10Fe-90Co/mesoHZSM-5 catalyst was more suitable for FTS at 250 °C with alkane (20.49 %) as the main product and alcohol as the by-product (79.51 %). The others catalysts composition of 20–40 % Fe (by weight) in Fe-Co were more suitable for FTS at 225–250°C because under these conditions, alkanes as the main product were obtained in relatively higher compositions compared to other compounds. The mechanism of paraffins, olefins, aldehydes and alcohols formation in this FTS reaction followed the hydrogen assisted CO dissociation with CO-insertion mechanism
Investigate the effect of EGR stratergies on the HCCI engine's performance with N-heptane fuel injection
Authors: Khuong Thi Ha , Tran Lan Anh , Nguyen Tuan Nghia
Published: April 2024

In this study, the effect of EGR strategies on the HCCI engine's performance is studied. A program was established to control the injection fuel and amount of exhaust gas recirculation on the HCCI engine. The results of the research show that when the EGR rate is greater than 30%, the engine operates stably according to the HCCI combustion characteristic at speeds lower than 2400 rpm. But when engine speeds are higher than 2400 rpm, the HCCI combustion characteristic is unstable; the torque and the indicator efficiency decrease rapidly. When the HCCI engine increases the EGR rate, the start of combustion is gradually later, the coefficient gradually decreases to close to the black smoke characteristic curve, the CO, HC, and CO2 emissions increase. The NOx emissions tend to increase when the EGR ratio increases from 0–25%, but the NOx decreases when the EGR rate is greater than 25%.
A study of the nonlinear dynamics inside the exoplanetary system Kepler-22 using MATLAB® software
Authors: Hysa Azem
Published: April 2024

Kepler is a discovery-class mission designed to determine the frequency of Earth-radius planets in and near the habitable zone of solar-type stars. A habitable zone of a star is defined as a range of orbits within which a rocky planet can support liquid water on its surface. The most intriguing question driving the search for habitable planets is whether they host life.

The aim of this paper is to study the motion of a “test particle” inside the exoplanetary system Kepler-22. This system consists of a sun-like star, Kepler-22, and a terrestrial exoplanet, Kepler-22b. This exoplanet is situated in the habitable zone of its star. Kepler-22b is located about 180 pc from Earth in the constellation of Cygnus. It was discovered by NASA’s Kepler Space Telescope in December 2011 and the planet is about 2.4 times the radius of Earth. Scientists don't yet know if Kepler-22b has a rocky, gaseous or liquid composition.

In this study, let’s derive Lagrange points and perform several numerical tests to discover different possible orbits around the star Kepler-22. From many numerical tests performed, it is also possible to found two tadpole orbits around the Lagrange points L4 and L5 and a tadpole orbit around the exoplanet Kepler-22b, which encircles the two Lagrange points L1, and L2. Some of these orbits are found in the habitable zone and others outside. We have also examined the possibility of the existence of an exomoon around the terrestrial exoplanet Kepler-22b. In this case we have considered the mass of this exomoon.

The Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem is used in this study. If it is further assumed that the third body (for example a planet, satellite, an asteroid or just a “test particle”) travels in the same plane as the two larger bodies, then there is the Planar Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem
Design of a mathematical model for staff planning in an emergency department
Authors: Caicedo-Rolon Alvaro Jr , Cely-Calixto Nelson Javier , Moreno-Gamboa Faustino
Published: April 2024

The emergency department plays a fundamental role in hospitals and critically affects a hospital's overall efficiency. Inadequate staff planning in emergency departments generates high costs, overcrowding, and patient dissatisfaction due to long waiting times, possibly putting the patient's health and life at risk. This research designed two mixed integer linear programming mathematical models. The first determined the optimal number of physicians required per shift and weekday in an adult emergency department to minimize the deviation between available and required capacity. The results of the optimization model would reduce by 16.07 % the required medical office staff per week, from 56 physicians in the current situation to 47, reducing staffing costs without impacting waiting times. Moreover, the overall physician utilization would be 95.01 % compared to 77.79 % in the current situation, indicating an adequate distribution of physicians on each shift of each day according to patient demand. These results contribute to the problem of high medical staff costs and overcrowding without sacrificing timeliness and quality of care. In contrast, the second model that minimized the number of physicians considering capacity constraints would increase the staff by 7.14 % concerning the current situation. This research was based on a model presented in the literature, but the objective function included the deviation variables as unrestricted in sign and a constraint to ensure that they were positive. The first model designed is presented as a tool to support emergency department managers in the medium-term planning of medical staff, ensuring an optimal solution to this problem
Development of a new method for solving problems of compressing various liquids with the manifestation of the “microcrack-liquid” effect
Authors: Mammadova Maleyka
Published: April 2024

The object of the study is the peculiarities of the movement of viscous and anomalous liquids in plane-parallel and plane-radial microcracks. The problem of hydrodynamic features of fluid motion in the considered objects – channels was studied.

Currently, the mechanical properties of liquids are being studied in pipes of various sizes. There are studies that claim that in small pipes the resistance to fluid movement increases compared to calculation formulas, and this phenomenon is explained by various qualitative factors.

To study this mechanical phenomenon, a device equipped with plane-parallel and plane-radial microcracks was developed. Numerous experiments carried out in microcracks have shown that for each liquid there is a critical crack opening and the following pattern has been discovered.

The essence of the obtained results is that during the movement (or static state) of a fluid in a microcrack (or an equivalent porous medium) with an opening less than critical, a viscous one-parameter fluid (water, viscous oil, etc.) becomes two-parameter, and two-parameter (resinous oils, polymers) solutions, etc.) increase their rheological parameters.

In this case, additional resistance arises against the movement of the fluid, which was named as a new hydrodynamic effect in the “microcrack-liquid” system.

A new phenomenon has been revealed, in which the motion of viscous and anomalous fluids in micron-sized fractures is described by other rheological curves. This allowed to take this hydrodynamic fact into account when solving the compression problem.

In this regard, problems are solved taking into account the “microcrack-liquid” effect.

The results of the research require taking into consideration the crack effect in estimating the parameters of the technological processes system and technical devices “microcrack-fluid”. Machines and mechanisms must additionally have nodes that would prevent this effect. This is of scientific and practical importance for various fields of the industry, machine manufacturing, instrument manufacturing, chemical technology and medicine
Recent LHCb results on forward physics and diffraction
Authors: McConnell Luke
Published: April 2024

The LHCb detector at the LHC offers unique coverage of forward rapidities for studies of Central Exclusive Production (CEP) and soft QCD. CEP measurements allow the investigation of the nature of pomerons, and provide constraints on low-x gluon phenomenology, probing potential saturation effects. Moreover LHCb can test phenomenological models of soft QCD processes, by measuring the production of forward hadrons in pp collisions. In this talk the latest results from the LHCb experiment will be presented.
Sub-TeV hadronic interaction model differences and their impact on air showers
Authors: Schmelling Michael , Pastor-Gutiérrez Álvaro , Schorlemmer Harm , Parsons Robert Daniel
Published: April 2024

In the sub-TeV regime, the most widely used hadronic interaction models disagree significantly in their predictions of particle spectra from cosmic ray induced air showers. We investigate the nature and impact of model uncertainties, focussing on air shower primaries with energies around the transition between high and low energy hadronic interaction models, where the dissimilarities are largest and which constitute the bulk of the interactions in air showers.
A MULTIDIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS OF REFUGEE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS’ POVERTY EXPERIENCES IN ESKİŞEHİR
Authors: Aksoy Mehmet , Güllüpınar Fuat
Published: April 2024

The main aim of this research is to present the experiences and problems of refugee high school students studying in different types of high schools in Eskişehir from a multidimensional perspective. The study revealed that refugee high school students encounter difficulties to varying degrees in areas such as education, accommodation, participation, meeting personal needs, leisure activities, and social relationships. It was determined that a large portion of them live in rented accommodations, some work in conditions that are not favorable outside of school hours, and the majority are unable to participate in leisure activities. Furthermore, it was found that a significant number of students rely on assistance, while some resort to seeking help through transnational migrant networks.
Adoption of metal additive manufacturing in nnpc limited: current state and challenges
Authors: Umar Al-Amin Barambu , Mai Muniru M. , Hagedorn-Hansen Devon
Published: April 2024

Metal additive manufacturing has emerged as a promising technology with vast potential in the oil and gas industry. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited recognizes the significance of this technology and has initiated efforts to adopt metal additive manufacturing within its operations. This paper aims to provide an overview of the current state of metal additive manufacturing in the NNPC and highlight the challenges faced during its adoption process. The study goes on further to suggest strategies and future directions to ensure successful company-wide and industry-wide adoption and acceptance.
O HIJAB É “MAIS QUE UM PANO NA CABEÇA” – APORTES ANTROPOLÓGICOS SOBRE A AGÊNCIA DE MULHERES MUÇULMANAS NOS USOS DO VÉU ISLÂMICO NO NORDESTE DO BRASIL
Authors: Goldfarb Maria Patrícia Lopes , Lima Vanessa Karla Mota de Souza
Published: April 2024

As discussões sobre o uso do véu islâmico é uma temática recorrente na Antropologia do Islã. Nos últimos anos, com o crescimento da religião no Brasil, cresceu também o número de mulheres que usam o véu em público e, dentre elas, algumas que ganharam visibilidade na mídia, nas redes sociais e na academia por seus discursos sobre a importância desta prática religiosa, projetando visibilidade sobre o assunto, sempre em diálogo com suas experiências religiosas diárias (resistências, conflitos e islamofobia) ou com eventos mais globais, como os ocorridos recentemente no Irã e na França. Desta realidade, resultaram diferentes análises empreendidas por pesquisadoras antropólogas brasileiras (Barbosa-Ferreira, 2013; Castro, 2015; Marques, 2011, dentre outras) em diferentes contextos. Estas análises acabaram por destacar a importância da agência feminina sobre os usos do véu em reflexão com as ideias dos movimentos islâmicos pietista, revivalista e feminista, para a compreensão da experiência religiosa. Sendo assim, por meio deste artigo, propõe-se a refletir sobre a agência de mulheres muçulmanas nordestinas e estes movimentos femininos islâmicos (Mahmood, 2019; Abu-Lughod, 2012; Barbosa, 2021; Silva, 2008; Barlas, 2012). Para isto, utilizamos a metodologia de análise bibliográfica e dos discursos de interlocutoras, captados através de entrevistas presenciais com mulheres muçulmanas em João Pessoa (PB) e Caruaru (PE). Concluiu-se, portanto, que as formas de experiência religiosa no que diz respeito ao uso/não uso, ou desuso, do véu islâmico têm características distintas tanto de compreensão quanto na ação religiosa, entre mulheres muçulmanas no Nordeste do Brasil.
Palavras-chave: Islã; Véu; Agência; Mulheres Muçulmanas; Nordeste.
O CONSUMO DA CULTURA POP EM UM COLETIVO JUVENIL
Authors: Brandão Deyse de Fátima do Amarante
Published: April 2024

O presente artigo é fruto de uma pesquisa realizada entre os anos de 2013 e 2015, resultado de um investimento etnográfico a respeito do consumo da cultura pop em um coletivo juvenil situado na cidade de João Pessoa (Brasil, PB). Seus participantes consolidam as afirmações de vínculos com o consumo da cultura pop envolvendo uma série de práticas culturais em contexto local. Sendo um termo dado pelos interlocutores, a cultura pop torna-se propulsora de ações coletivas e individuais, revelando formas de lidar autênticas e diferenciadas por estes atores que, ao se apropriarem do consumo destes bens, revelam nos espaços da cidade construções identitárias e formas estetizadas de estilos de vida. A partir de uma abordagem etnográfica buscou-se compreender o consumo como potencialidade criativa em que algumas culturas juvenis, tendo o papel de consumidores e produtores, exercem posicionamentos estratégicos diante de escolhas de bens que abrem possibilidades inventivas, mantendo dinâmicas sociais próprias. A tônica deste estudo foi sublinhar as diversas possibilidades de vivenciar o pop e suas apropriações a partir de uma territorialidade local.
Palavras-chave: Culturas Juvenis; Cultura Pop; Consumo; Apropriações do Pop.
Noncoding RNA Lipotherapeutics: A Promising Breakthrough in Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment
Authors: Hu Xuanyi , Lv Xinxin , Zhang Lingzhu , Li Shan-Shan , Jin Xin
Published: April 2024

:

Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) is a complex cardiovascular disorder characterized by
elevated blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. Current therapeutic approaches for PH have
limitations in addressing the underlying molecular mechanisms. This article explores the potential
of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs
(lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), delivered through Lipid-Based Nanoparticles
(LNPs) as a novel treatment strategy. These ncRNAs play critical roles in regulating vascular
function and are implicated in PH pathogenesis. LNPs provide a promising method for the efficient
and targeted delivery of ncRNAs. Advances in LNP technology, including the incorporation
of R8 peptide modification, have shown promise in enhancing the delivery and efficacy of
ncRNAs in PH models. Challenges such as biocompatibility, toxicity, and precise targeting must
be addressed as these therapies move toward clinical application. The potential of personalized
medicine and the integration of artificial intelligence in LNP design are discussed as prospects.
In conclusion, ncRNA lipotherapeutics delivered via LNPs offer a transformative approach to
treating PH, potentially leading to more effective management and improved patient outcomes
in the future. However, continued research and clinical trials are necessary to fully realize their
therapeutic potential in the field of PH treatment.
Use of Immunoglobulin Y Antibodies: Biosensor-based Diagnostic Systems
and Prophylactic and Therapeutic Drug Delivery Systems for Viral
Respiratory Diseases
Authors: Budama-Kilinc Yasemin , Kurtur Ozan Baris , Gok Bahar , Cakmakci Nisanur , Kecel-Gunduz Serda , Unel Necdet Mehmet , Ozturk Taylan Kurtulus
Published: April 2024

Respiratory viruses have caused many pandemics from past to present and are among
the top global public health problems due to their rate of spread. The recently experienced
COVID-19 pandemic has led to an understanding of the importance of rapid diagnostic tests to prevent
epidemics and the difficulties of developing new vaccines. On the other hand, the emergence
of resistance to existing antiviral drugs during the treatment process poses a major problem for society
and global health systems. Therefore, there is a need for new approaches for the diagnosis,
prophylaxis, and treatment of existing or new types of respiratory viruses. Immunoglobulin Y antibodies
(IgYs) obtained from the yolk of poultry eggs have significant advantages, such as high
production volumes, low production costs, and high selectivity, which enable the development of
innovative and strategic products. Especially in diagnosing respiratory viruses, antibody-based
biosensors in which these antibodies are integrated have the potential to provide superiority in
making rapid and accurate diagnosis as a practical diagnostic tool. This review article aims to provide
information on using IgY antibodies in diagnostic, prophylactic, and therapeutic applications
for respiratory viruses and to provide a perspective for future innovative applications.
Research on Mechanical Characteristics of TBM Cutter Bearing Based on DEM-MBD Coupled Simulation
Authors: Ling Jingxiu , Shao Jiacheng , Sun Chao , Tong Xin
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

The cutter is a crucial excavation tool employed by Tunnel Boring Machines
(TBM) for tunneling underground passages. During operation, it undergoes intense impact loads,
which are transmitted to the bearings, thus posing a risk of bearing failure. Method: This paper combines
the Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Multibody Dynamics (MBD) by establishing a coupled
simulation patent model of the cutter and surrounding rock, various methods of cutter load profiles
are compared. The study investigates the variation patterns of multi-directional rock-breaking
loads on the cutter and validates the findings through wire-cutting experiments. Result: The research
findings indicate that the discrepancies between the simulated and experimental mean values of the
cutter's normal force and rolling force are 6.26% and 35.20%, respectively. The efficiency of cutter
load transmission to the outer ring of the bearing is 99.10%, leading to the characterization of the
vibration characteristics curve of the bearing's outer ring. Simultaneously, the mean square error of
the cutter load obtained through the coupled method and traditional method is 78.50 kN and 76.10
kN, respectively. In comparison, the experimental load's mean square error is 99.20 kN, indicating
that the coupled method better aligns with actual conditions. Conclusion: This research approach
serves as a reference for TBM cutter performance analysis and bearing fatigue analysis.
Isolation and Identification of Endophytic Bacteria from Kumis Kucing Leaves (Orthosiphon aristatus Benth.)
Authors: Setiani Nur Asni , Zahraeni Rafika , Hasanah Siti Uswatun
Published: April 2024

Endophytic bacteria are in symbiosis with plants and can produce secondary metabolites similar to those produced by their host. Kumis kucing (Orthosiphon aristatus) is a traditional medicinal plant that has been proven to have many pharmacological activities, including antiviral and antibacterial. This study aims to isolate and identify endophytic bacteria from kumis kucing leaves. Endophytic bacteria were isolated from kumis kucing leaf by spreading method on Trypticase Soy Agar (TSA) media and incubated at room temperature for 24 hours. Colonies that grew with bacterial morphology were inoculated on TSA media to obtain pure cultures. Pure cultures of isolates were identified through Gram staining, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and bacterial growth curves. There were 8 isolates with bacterial morphology which identified by Gram staining. The staining results showed that all were classified as Gram negative with rod and coccus shapes. Sequencing using the 16S rRNA gene identified 3 bacterial isolates, Acinetobacter schindleri, Pantoea agglomerans, and Pseudomonas lurida. The three bacteria have different time to reach stationary phases in order to produce their secondary metabolites.
Poczucie własnej skuteczności autora bloga ciepiącego na SMA. Analiza kategorialna narracji
Authors: Ciszewska Katarzyna
Published: April 2024

Poczucie własnej skuteczności to jedna z najważniejszych kategorii pedagogiki zdrowia. Jest ona powiązana z radzeniem sobie z chorobą (Byra 2011), obrazem choroby (Byra 2014), motywacją do działania oraz wytrwałością w dążeniu do celu (Ogińska-Bulik). Z dotychczasowych badań wynika, że poczucie to wzmacnia świadomość własnych słabych i mocnych stron, a istotne są nie tyle rezultaty podejmowanych działań, co przekonanie o możliwości sprostania zadaniu (Goleman 1999). Prowadzone badania dotyczyły poczucia własnej skuteczności osoby chorej na SMA, niezdolnej do wykonywania czynności samoobsługowych. Zastosowana metoda badawcza to Analiza Kategorialna opracowana przez Annę Walulik i Zbigniewa Marka (2019). Badania jakościowe oparto o interpretację narracji bloga prowadzonego przez cierpiącego na rdzeniowy zanik mięśni doktoranta. Ich celem było ukazanie obrazu przeżyć chorego, który pomimo doświadczanych trudności cechuje się wysokim poczuciem własnej skuteczności opartym o świadomość swoich mocnych stron, wiarę i poczucie sprawczości. W osiągnieciu takiego stanu pomagały mu m.in. wsparcie bliskich, ale też własna aktywność na polu edukacji oraz pisanie bloga. Zgromadzone wyniki mogą być pomocne w konstruowaniu narzędzi edukacji personelu medycznego i asystentów osób niepełnosprawnych oraz projektowaniu działań ukierunkowanych na wzmacnianie zasobów osób niepełnosprawnych.
Ukraińska tożsamość narodowa – wciąż trudna niepodległość
Authors: Mroczkowski Jan Krzysztof , Szymański Szymon
Published: April 2024

W pracy tej autorzy omówili proces kształtowania się ukraińskiej tożsamości narodowej od VIII w. do czasów najnowszych, na podstawie zachowanych źródeł histograficznych. Szczególną uwagę skupiono na ukazaniu tożsamości terytorialnej oraz kulturowej na podstawie relatywizmu historycznego. Praca także ukazuje zjawiska mitologizowania historii Ukrainy i kształtowanie ukraińskiego ruchu narodowego na podstawie źródeł historycznych pochodzących z dóbr kultury w szczególności literatura ukraińska. W pracy przedstawiono relatywne fakty historyczne, które autorzy na końcu poddają subiektywnej ocenie z punktu widzenia bratniego narodu Polskiego i relacji Polsko-Ukraińskich na przestrzeni wieków.
Radiological Progression of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy in a Clinically Stable Patient: Case Report
Authors: Umeria Rishi , Mowforth Oliver , Veremu Munashe , Davies Benjamin , Kotter Mark
Published: April 2024

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a common neurological condition, with disease progression that is both variable and difficult to predict. Here, we present a case of DCM in a gentleman in his late 60s with significant radiological disease progression without consequent change in clinical symptoms. The case serves as a reminder of an enduring medical aphorism that clinical history and examination should be prioritized above more complex data, such as imaging investigations. In addition, the case also highlights that guidelines should be contextualized within individual clinical circumstances.
Evaluating the Usability of an mHealth App for Empowering Cancer Survivors With Disabilities: Heuristic Evaluation and Usability Testing (Preprint)
Authors: Adler Rachel F , Baez Kevin , Morales Paulina , Sotelo Jocelyn , Victorson David , Magasi Susan
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

More than 18 million cancer survivors are living in the United States. The effects of cancer and its treatments can have cognitive, psychological, physical, and social consequences that many survivors find incredibly disabling. Posttreatment support is often unavailable or underused, especially for survivors living with disabilities. This leaves them to deal with new obstacles and struggles on their own, oftentimes feeling lost during this transition. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have been shown to effectively aid cancer survivors in dealing with many of the aftereffects of cancer and its treatments; these interventions hold immense potential for survivors living with disabilities. We developed a prototype for WeCanManage, an mHealth-delivered self-management intervention to empower cancer survivors living with disabilities through problem-solving, mindfulness, and self-advocacy training.

OBJECTIVE

Our study conducted a heuristic evaluation of the WeCanManage high-fidelity prototype and assessed its usability among cancer survivors with known disabilities.

METHODS

We evaluated the prototype using Nielsen’s 10 principles of heuristic evaluation with 22 human-computer interaction university students. On the basis of the heuristic evaluation findings, we modified the prototype and conducted usability testing on 10 cancer survivors with a variety of known disabilities, examining effectiveness, efficiency, usability, and satisfaction, including a completion of the modified System Usability Scale (SUS).

RESULTS

The findings from the heuristic evaluation were mostly favorable, highlighting the need for a help guide, addressing accessibility concerns, and enhancing the navigation experience. After usability testing, the average SUS score was 81, indicating a good-excellent design. The participants in the usability testing sample expressed positive reactions toward the app’s design, educational content and videos, and the available means of connecting with others. They identified areas for improvement, such as improving accessibility, simplifying navigation within the community forums, and providing a more convenient method to access the help guide.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, usability testing showed positive results for the design of WeCanManage. The course content and features helped participants feel heard, understood, and less alone.
Public Response to Federal Electronic Cigarette Regulations Analyzed Using Social Media Data Through Natural Language Processing: Topic Modeling Study (Preprint)
Authors: Lin Shuo-Yu , Tulabandu Sahithi Kiran , Koch J Randy , Hayes Rashelle , Barnes Andrew , Purohit Hemant , Chen Songqing , Han Bo , Xue Hong
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

e-Cigarette (electronic cigarette) use has been a public health issue in the United States. On June 23, 2022, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued marketing denial orders (MDOs) to Juul Labs Inc for all their products currently marketed in the United States. However, one day later, on June 24, 2022, a federal appeals court granted a temporary reprieve to Juul Labs that allowed it to keep its e-cigarettes on the market. As the conversation around Juul continues to evolve, it is crucial to gain insights into the sentiments and opinions expressed by individuals on social media.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of tweets before and after the ban on Juul, aiming to shed light on public perceptions and sentiments surrounding this contentious topic and to better understand the life cycle of public health–related policy on social media.

METHODS

Natural language processing (NLP) techniques were used, including state-of-the-art BERTopic topic modeling and sentiment analysis. A total of 6023 tweets and 22,288 replies or retweets were collected from Twitter (rebranded as X in 2023) between June 2022 and October 2022. The encoded topics were used in time-trend analysis to depict the boom-and-bust cycle. Content analyses of retweets were also performed to better understand public perceptions and sentiments about this contentious topic.

RESULTS

The attention surrounding the FDA’s ban on Juul lasted no longer than a week on Twitter. Not only the news (ie, tweets with a YouTube link that directs to the news site) related to the announcement itself, but the surrounding discussions (eg, potential consequences of this ban or block and concerns toward kids or youth health) diminished shortly after June 23, 2022, the date when the ban was officially announced. Although a short rebound was observed on July 4, 2022, which was contributed by the suspension on the following day, discussions dried out in 2 days. Out of the top 50 most retweeted tweets, we observed that, except for neutral (23/45, 51%) sentiment that broadcasted the announcement, posters responded more negatively (19/45, 42%) to the FDA’s ban.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed a short life cycle for this news announcement, with a preponderance of negative sentiment toward the FDA’s ban on Juul. Policy makers could use tactics such as issuing ongoing updates and reminders about the ban, highlighting its impact on public health, and actively engaging with influential social media users who can help maintain the conversation.
Measurement-Based Care in a Remote Intensive Outpatient Program: Pilot Implementation Initiative (Preprint)
Authors: Kumar Komal , Childs Amber W , Kohlmeier Jonathan , Kroll Elizabeth , Zant Izabella , Stolzenbach Stephanie , Fenkel Caroline
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The ongoing mental health crisis, especially among youth, has led to a greater demand for intensive treatment at the intermediate level, such as intensive outpatient programs (IOPs). Defining best practices in remote IOPs more broadly is critical to understanding the impact of these offerings for individuals with high-acuity mental health service needs in the outpatient setting. Measurement-based care (MBC), or the routine and systematic collection of patient-reported data throughout the course of care to make meaningful changes to treatment, is one such practice that has been shown to improve patient outcomes in mental health treatment. Despite the literature linking MBC to beneficial clinical outcomes, the adoption of MBC in clinical practice has been slow and inconsistent, and more research is needed around MBC in youth-serving settings.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper is to help bridge these gaps, illustrating the implementation of MBC within an organization that provides remote-first, youth-oriented IOP for individuals with high-acuity psychiatric needs.

METHODS

A series of 2 quality improvement pilot studies were conducted with select clinicians and their clients at Charlie Health, a remote IOP program that treats high-acuity teenagers and young adults who present with a range of mental health disorders. Both studies were carefully designed, including thorough preparation and planning, clinician training, feedback collection, and data analysis. Using process evaluation data, MBC deployment was repeatedly refined to enhance the clinical workflow and clinician experience.

RESULTS

The survey completion rate was 80.08% (3216/4016) and 86.01% (4218/4904) for study 1 and study 2, respectively. Quantitative clinician feedback showed marked improvement from study 1 to study 2. Rates of successful treatment completion were 22% and 29% higher for MBC pilot clients in study 1 and study 2, respectively. Depression, anxiety, and psychological well-being symptom reduction were statistically significantly greater for MBC pilot clients (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support the feasibility and clinician acceptability of a rigorous MBC process in a real-world, youth-serving, remote-first, intermediate care setting. High survey completion data across both studies and improved clinician feedback over time suggest strong clinician buy-in. Client outcomes data suggest MBC is positively correlated with increased treatment completion and symptom reduction. This paper provides practical guidance for MBC implementation in IOPs and can extend to other mental health care settings.
Diversity of Dibenzofuran-Utilizing Bacteria Isolated by Direct-Plating and Enrichment Methods
Authors: Prijambada Irfan Dwidya , Widada Jaka , Kusumaningtyas Pintaka , Suryawan Dhani
Published: April 2024

The effect of enrichment bias on the diversity of Dibenzofuran (DBF)-degrading bacteria recovered from soil was evaluated by direct plating, plating after in-soil adaptation, and plating after batch culture enrichment. Among colonies appeared on Bushnell Haas agar with DBF as the sole carbon source, 119 colonies (49, 38, and 32 from direct plating, plating after in-soil adaptation, and plating after batch culture enrichment, respectively) were arbitrarily selected based on the appearance of the colonies. Total DNA were then extracted from the rest of the colonies and analyzed for their diversity using Ribosomal Intergenic Spacer Analysis (RISA). Number of DNA bands obtained from direct plating was higher than the ones obtained after in-soil enrichment and batch culture enrichment. The RISA bands obtained from direct plating were also found to be distributed more evenly than the ones obtained after in-soil enrichment and batch culture enrichment. Dominant bands were observed on RISA from samples obtained after in-soil enrichment and batch culture enrichment. Out of 119, only 9 isolates were consistently able to grow on Bushnell-Haas broth with DBF as the sole carbon source as indicated by broth turbidity. All of the isolates were obtained from soil samples which were enriched in a batch culture. Some of the isolates were able to degrade more then 80 % DBF in the minimal medium.
Isolation and Purifi cation of Chitinase Bacillus sp. D2 Isolated from Potato Rhizosfer
Authors: Margino Sebastian , Behar Chatarina , Asmara Widya
Published: April 2024

Potato Cyst Nematodes (Globodera rostochiensis) is one of the important potato’s pests and caused economic looses up to 70% in the several centrals of potato plantations in Indonesia. Potato Cyst Nematodes (PCN) shell component of egg shell containing chitin (inner layer) and vitelline/protein (outer layer), so the purpose of research was to fi nd out of chitin degrading bacteria for controlling of egg’s PCN by cutting of their life cycle. The results showed that Bacillus sp. D2 isolated from potato rhizosphere could produce extra cellular chitinase in the medium containing of 0.20% colloidal chitin and fermented for 72 hours. Result of chitinase purifi cation using ammonium sulphate precipitation and DEAE-Cellulose ion-exchange chromatography showed a specifi c activity 2691,052 U/mg and analyzing using SDS-PAGE 12.5% resulted in molecular weight 30 kDa. The apparent Km and Vmax of chitinase towards colloidal chitin were 2 mg/ml and 2.2 μg/h, respectively.
Barreras y facilitadores de la atención en salud de personas con cáncer en una comuna del norte de Chile: reporte cualitativo
Authors: Torres Saavedra Constanza , Campillay Campillay Maggie , Dubó Araya Pablo
Published: April 2024

Introducción: Los pacientes oncológicos constituyen un grupo vulnerable de la población por la fragilidad que les provoca la enfermedad. Consultada la literatura se describen problemas en el acceso a la atención en salud. Objetivo: Analizar las barreras y facilitadores de acceso que afectan a personas con cáncer en una comunidad del norte de Chile. Metodología: Se abordó desde el paradigma interpretativo, metodología cualitativa y enfoque análisis de contenido según Bardin. La muestra fue intencionada y consideró cuatro pacientes con cáncer y cuatro familiares cuidadores. Se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad y se utilizó una parrilla de preguntas orientadoras. Se contó con autorización de un comité de ética de investigación acreditado. Resultados: Se identificaron barreras de a) disponibilidad, b) accesibilidad, c) psicosociales y d) burocráticas, y facilitadores en e) redes de apoyo y f) estrategias de prevención. Conclusiones: Las barreras de disponibilidad son especialmente importantes para los pacientes, ya que se asocian a un déficit de oferta de servicios oncológicos oportunos. Destacan las redes de grupos de autoayuda como facilitador del proceso terapéutico. La identificación de barreras y facilitadores contribuye a mejorar las estrategias de acción, para una mejor atención de pacientes oncológicos.
Fuerza prensil y biomarcadores en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica en hemodiálisis
Authors: Ángel Bustos Isabel Cristina , Apolinar Joven Leidy Yohana , Campos Adriana , Vásquez Montoya Maria Guadalupe , Patiño Palma Brayan Esneider
Published: April 2024

Contexto: la enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) se asocia con el deterioro de la capacidad física, consecuencia del compromiso sistémico relacionado con la anemia, la sarcopenia, la malnutrición y la inactividad, provocando una disminución de la capacidad funcional. La medición de la fuerza prensil (HGS) es un marcador útil del estado nutricional que refleja la masa muscular magra, evalúa el estado funcional y predice el pronóstico y la supervivencia en la enfermedad renal terminal (ESRD).
Objetivo: determinar la relación entre la fuerza prensil y los biomarcadores serológicos en pacientes con ERC en hemodiálisis.
Metodología: estudio con enfoque cuantitativo, diseño transversal y alcance correlacional, con registro de la información en la plataforma REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture), donde la recolección de datos fue entre abril y noviembre del 2022. La HGS fue medida con dinamómetro Biometrics G200 y los datos serológicos analizados fueron: hemoglobina, triglicéridos, potasio, colesterol total y albúmina.
Resultados: se encuentran diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los sexos en lo que respecta a los niveles de hemoglobina, triglicéridos, colesterol total y fuerza prensil. Además, hay una relación directamente proporcional entre fuerza prensil con HB (Rho = 0,31; p = < 0,00), albúmina (Rho = 0,42; p = < 0,00) y potasio (Rho = 0,31; p = < 0,00).
Conclusiones: las bases teóricas para este artículo pueden ser conclusivas respecto a la relación entre fragilidad y sarcopenia, con algunos biomarcadores importantes en esta población, donde estos pueden permitir el análisis de la disminución de la fuerza como factor influyente en la calidad de vida del paciente. La teoría sustenta una relación directa entre factores fisiopatológicos y fragilidad, traducida en una disminución de la fuerza funcional en los pacientes con ERC.