bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peramalan Penyediaan dan Konsumsi Bahan Bakar Minyak Indonesia dengan Model Sistem Dinamik
Authors:   Biro Perencanaan Kementerian ESDM, Sa’adah Ana Fitriyatus , Fauzi Akhmad ,   Fakultas Ekonomi dan Manajemen, Institut Pertanian Bogor, Juanda Bambang ,   Fakultas Ekonomi dan Manajemen, Institut Pertanian Bogor
Published: April 2023

Penelitian ini memperkaya kajian industri perminyakan di Indonesia dengan menganalisis penyediaan dan konsumsi bahan bakar minyak (BBM) Indonesia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meramalkan penyediaan dan konsumsi BBM masa mendatang. Model yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah model sistem dinamik. Hasil simulasi menunjukkan bahwa sampai tahun 2016 penyediaan BBM dapat memenuhi kebutuhan BBM. Pada tahun 2017 sampai 2025, penyediaan BBM tidak dapat memenuhi kebutuhan BBM dalam negeri. Pada tahun 2025, diperkirakan penyediaan BBM mencapai 651.092 juta barel dan konsumsi BBM mencapai 719.048 juta barel.
Kausalitas Harga dan Permintaan Komoditas Pertanian di Provinsi Bengkulu
Authors:   Jurusan Sosial Ekonomi Pertanian Fakultas Pertanian Universitas Bengkulu, Andani Apri , Nusril Nusril ,   Jurusan Sosial Ekonomi Pertanian Fakultas Pertanian Universitas Bengkulu, Rasyid Witman ,   Jurusan Sosial Ekonomi Pertanian Fakultas Pertanian Universitas Bengkulu
Published: April 2023

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menemukan kausalitas antara permintaan dan harga cabai merah keriting, harga-harga komoditas yang terkait dengan itu, dan korelasi pembentukan harga antar-pasar. Metode analisis data yang digunakan adalah kausalitas Granger dan Uji Kelambanan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tidak ada kausalitas antara harga dan permintaan cabai merah keriting di Provinsi Bengkulu. Sementara pada hubungan antar-harga, terdapat hubungan searah antara harga cabai merah keriting, cabai rawit, dan cabai hijau pada lag-2, serta harga cabai merah keriting di beberapa pasar (asal dan acuan) memiliki dampak ke pasar lain (tujuan).
AOA Critical Issues: Gender Justice in Academic Medicine
Authors: Day Charles S. , Lattanza Lisa , Van Heest Ann , Templeton Kimberly , Fore Jessi A. , Ode Gabriella E.
Published: April 2023

As the number of women entering medicine has increased, so has the number of women entering orthopaedics; however, many orthopaedic programs struggle to create an equitable space for women, particularly in leadership. Struggles experienced by women include sexual harassment and gender bias, lack of visibility, lack of well-being, disproportionate family care responsibilities, and lack of flexibility in the criteria for promotions. Historically, sexual harassment and bias has been a problem faced by women physicians, and often the harassment continues even when the issue has been reported; many women find that reporting it results in negative consequences for their career and training. Additionally, throughout medical training, women are less exposed to orthopaedics and lack the mentorship that is given to their colleagues who are men. The late exposure and lack of support prevent women from entering and advancing in orthopaedic training. Typical surgery culture can also result in women orthopaedic surgeons avoiding help for mental wellness. Improving well-being culture requires systemic changes. Finally, women in academics perceive decreased equality in promotional considerations and face leadership that already lacks representation of women. This paper presents solutions to assist in developing equitable work environments for all academic clinicians.
Bilateral Flexor Digitorum Accessorius Longus Precipitating Bilateral Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Propp Bennett E. , Torre Barrett B. , Bellas Nicholas , Sathe Vinayak
Published: April 2023

Case:

A 29-year-old woman presented with bilateral tarsal tunnel syndrome caused by bilateral flexor digitorum accessorius longus, experiencing immediate relief of symptoms after surgical intervention through 1 year.

Conclusion:

Accessory muscles can cause compressive neuropathies in multiple areas of the body. In patients who have FDAL as the cause of their tarsal tunnel syndrome, surgeons should have a high index of suspicion of bilateral FDAL if the same patient develops similar contralateral symptoms.
Clay-Shoveler Fracture of an Adolescent Tennis Player
Authors: Toyooka Seikai , Villanger Olaug , Kristiansen Vibeke Røstad , Engebretsen Lars
Published: April 2023

Case:

A 17-year-old male tennis player presented with persistent and increasing posterior neck pain. An overuse of tennis stroke motion resulted in a clay-shoveler fracture at the first thoracic vertebra. The patient was able to fully return to tennis after discontinuation of the causative motion and conservative treatment.

Conclusions:

This report presents a clay-shoveler fracture occurring in a tennis player. Although this fracture is rare in the modern era, it is characterized by its causative motion and site of occurrence. Knowing these characteristics, care should be taken not to miss it.
Retrospective analysis of pulmonary cryptococcosis and extrapulmonary cryptococcosis in a Chinese tertiary hospital
Authors: Shi Jiejun , Chen Jianhua , Hu Liqing , Yan Ada Hoi , Hu Haoxuan , Wang Chuwen , Huang Jiajia , Qifa Song , Qian Guoqing
Published: April 2023

Cryptococcosis is an invasive fungal disease with increased morbidity in China. Cryptococci can infect immunocompromised hosts as well as immunocompetent ones. In this study, we reviewed data of inpatients with cryptococcosis at Ningbo First Hospital from May 2010 to May 2020 and compared the clinical profiles of pulmonary cryptococcosis (PC) and extrapulmonary cryptococcosis (EPC). Of 71 patients enrolled, 70 were non-HIV with dramatically increased prevalence especially in PC. 77.46% of cases were PC confirmed by pathology. The rest were EPC including intracranial infection (15.49%) and cryptococcemia (7.04%). Comparing to PC, a larger proportion of EPC patients were found to have immunocompromised conditions including predisposing factors (p<0.01), or detectable humoral or cellular immunodeficiency. Fever and headache were more common in EPC patients (p<0.001). Patients with EPC had lower serum sodium level (p=0.041), lower monocyte counts (p=0.025) and higher C-reactive protein (p=0.012). Cryptococcal antigen tests for serum and cerebrospinal fluid showed 100% sensitivity in diagnosing EPC while serum lateral flow assay (LFA) tested negative in 25% of PC. All in all, underlying immunocompromised conditions may predict dissemination in PC without HIV which can be identified by LFA.
Challenges and Strategies of Drug Trafficking in the Islamic Republic of Iran: A Qualitative Study Based on Analysis of Online News Media
Authors: Fakhrzad NourolHoda , Yazdi-Feyzabadi Vahid , Fakhrzad Maryam
Published: April 2023

Background: Given the importance of medicine as a strategic commodity in the Iranian health sector, drug trafficking is one of the public health challenges. Therefore, the present study was conducted to identify and explain challenges and proper strategies to control drug trafficking in Iran.
Method: This study was conducted using a qualitative content analysis based on an analysis of news media. The news was retrieved according to keywords related to drugs, medicine, and trafficking from news sources from March 21, 2017 to March 19, 2020. Special and general online news sites and agencies, including Mehr News Agency, Khabar Online, Khane Mellat News Agency, Islamic republic news agency(IRNA), Iranian students news agency(ISNA), Hamshahri, Donya-e-Eqtesad newspapers, Webda, Sepid newspapers, and Irans’ food and drug administration news agency(IFDANA) were selected by purposeful sampling method with a maximum variation. Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis by a data-driven inductive approach. All steps of data coding were done manually in Excel 2016 software.
Results: Totally, 139 news met inclusion criteria. In terms of challenges and strategies, four themes were obtained separately. Challenges and strategies included ten and nine sub-themes, respectively. The four themes were economic, regulatory, structural, infrastructure, and cultural, social, and informational issues. The predominant theme in challenges was regulatory issues, and also the predominant theme was economic strategies.
Conclusion: To reduce trafficking, it is necessary to review policies. Also, there is a need to focus on capacity building and support for the country's pharmaceutical companies. Also, the use of insurance capacity, e-infrastructure, and culturalization are strategies for reducing drug smuggling that must be accompanied by the full participation of stakeholders inside and outside the health system.
First report of molecular identification of Phytophthora infestans causing potato late blight in Yemen
Authors: Harethi Amira Ali Al , Abdullah Qais Y. , Jobory Hala J. Al , Arafa Ramadan A. , Aquil Samar Al
Published: April 2023

Late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, is one of the most destructive potato diseases in the world. In Yemen, identification of P. infestans still depends on a visual survey and external examination of late blight symptoms. The objective of this study was to isolate and identify P. infestans by using advanced methods.
We collected 71 disease samples and isolated the pathogen using the tuber slice method. To identify an isolated pathogen, we performed morphological characterization and gene sequence analysis of the coding genes for internal transcribed spacers. We used Koch's hypotheses to confirm the previous results.
In our study. The morphological characters of the mycelium pattern of P. infestans isolates in Yemen were profusely branching, fluffy, and white. The sporangia showed remarkable limoniform papillate sporangial shape. with average length and width of 30.6 and 28.6 µm, respectively. The sequences analysis showed high homology with a degree of identity ranging from 98–100% to the database sequences on GenBank. Pathogenicity tests showed that the P. infestans was the causal agent.
To our knowledge, this is the first study of the isolation and characterization of P. infestans in Yemen.
Effectiveness of m-health-based core strengthening exercise and health education for public safety workers with non-specific chronic low back pain: study protocol for a superiority randomized controlled trial (SAFEBACK)
Authors: Marins Eduardo , Caputo Eduardo , Krüger Victor , Junior Dirceu , Scaglioni Fabricio , Vecchio Fabricio Del , Primo Tiago , Alberton Cristine
Published: April 2023

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of years lived with disability worldwide. Public safety workers are highly exposed to physically demanding activities and inappropriate postures, which can increase the LBP experience in this population. Smartphone app-based self-managed interventions may be an alternative for chronic non-specific LBP (CNSLBP) treatment. This study aims to develop and test the effectiveness of an 8-week smartphone app-based self-managed exercise program plus health education, compared to a health education program alone, on neuromuscular and perceptual outcomes in police officers and firefighters with CNSLBP.
Methods: This is a parallel, two-armed, blinded evaluator randomized clinical trial. Police officers and firefighters (from public safety institutions in the Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil) will be randomly assigned to m-health self-managed exercise program (twice a week) plus health education or health education alone. Self-management exercise program components are mobility and core resistance exercises, available on the app. Follow-ups will be conducted post-treatment (8 weeks) and 16 weeks after randomization. The primary outcomes will be pain intensity and disability post-treatment (8 weeks). Secondary outcomes will be biopsychosocial factors related to CNSLBP.
Discussion: Our hypothesis is of superiority for the effects of a smartphone app-based self-managed exercise program on primary and secondary outcomes, compared to the effects of only the health education intervention in police officers and firefighters with CNSLBP.
Trial registration: The study was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05481996. Registered on August 01, 2022).
Method development, validation, and application for simultaneous determination of 56 new psychoactive substances in surface water by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Atasoy-Aydin Asli , Gören İsmail Ethem , Yavuz-Guzel Evsen , Daglioglu Nebile
Published: April 2023

Despite preventive legislation, the popularity and consumption of new psychoactive substances (NPS) have been steadily increasing in recent years. This study provides a rapid and sensitive method for the quantitation and the detection of 56 NPS from surface water. Sample clean-up and pre-concentration were performed by solid-phase extraction (SPE) with Oasis HLB (6 cc/500 mg) cartridge. Following the chromatographic separation with Shim-pack FC-ODS column, the all substances were quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The method was optimized and validated for all NPS. Despite the wide variety of physicochemical properties of the analytes, the recoveries for all compounds studied were in the range of 69-117%. The limit of quantitation (LOQ) ranging from 2.5 to 15 ng/L was reached for reliable and accurate quantification of analytes. The analytical method developed was successfully applied to the surface water samples. While synthetic cannabinoids were not detected, mephedrone from the synthetic cathinone group was detected under the LOQ. This novel method was expected to be a part of future environmental routine analyses as a satisfactory method.
Machine Learning to Predict Radiation Enteritis in Patients Undergoing Radical Radiotherapy for Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Li Yanqing , Jiang Kaijun , Zhang Lan , Gao Xudong , Ju Yunhe , Ding Xiang , Wang Xiaoli , Xia Qun , Xia Yaoxiong , Ai Yiqin
Published: April 2023

Background
Radiation enteritis (RE) is an adverse event associated with radical radiotherapy (RT) for cervical carcinoma (CC). However, the risk of RE has not been well predicted. We hypothesized that inflammatory markers of pre-/post-treatment complete blood count (CBC)-derived parameters can improve the predictive accuracy for RE using machine learning.
Methods
Patients with cervical squamous cell carcinoma of stage IB2-IIIB receiving radical RT in our hospital from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2015, were included. Inflammatory markers of pre/post-treatment CBC-derived at the initial diagnosis and after RT were analyzed. A machine learning algorithm was used to develop a generalized linear model (GLM) for predicting RE risk.
Results
A total of 321 patients were eligible, of whom 39.3% (126/321) developed RE2 after RT, whether acute or chronic. The final predictive GLM for RE2 included an inflammatory marker, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR1) (P = 0.021); age (P = 0.148); stage (P = 0.017); and RT technique (P = 0.047). A nomogram was constructed based on GLM. Decision curve analysis verified the better predictive power of the model for net clinical benefit.
Conclusions
This is the first study to determine the relationship between hematological inflammatory parameters and RE2 in patients with radical RT CC and to establish a relevant prediction model using machine learning. PLR1 was significantly associated with RE2. This study developed a comprehensive model integrating hematological inflammatory parameters and clinical variables to predict RE before RT, which provides an opportunity to guide clinicians.
Forecasting seed production in perennial plants: identifying challenges and charting a path forward
Authors: Journé Valentin , Hacket-Pain Andrew , Oberklammer Iris , Pesendorfer Mario , Bogdziewicz Michał
Published: April 2023

Interannual variability of seed production, known as masting, has far-reaching ecological impacts including effects on forest regeneration and the population dynamics of seed consumers. Because the relative timing of management and conservation efforts in ecosystems dominated by masting species often determines their success, there is a need to study masting mechanisms and develop forecasting tools for seed production. Here, we aim to establish seed production forecasting as a new branch of the discipline. We evaluate the predictive capabilities of three models - foreMast, DeltaT, and a sequential model - designed to predict seed production in trees using a pan-European dataset of Fagus sylvatica seed production. The models are moderately successful in recreating seed production dynamics. The availability of high-quality data on prior seed production improved the sequential model's predictive power, suggesting that effective seed production monitoring methods are crucial for creating forecasting tools. In terms of extreme events, the models are better at predicting crop failures than bumper crops, likely because the factors preventing seed production are better understood than the processes leading to large reproductive events. We summarize the current challenges and provide a roadmap to help advance the discipline and encourage the further development of mast forecasting.
Clinical and prognostic profile of SRSF2 and related spliceosome mutations in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Jia Wenbo , Guo Xiaodong , Wei Yihong , Liu Jinting , Can Can , Wang Ruiqing , Yang Xinyu , Ji Chunyan , Ma Daoxin
Published: April 2023

Background
Mutations in splicing factor (SF) genes are frequently detected in myelodysplastic syndrome, but rare data about the clinical and prognostic relevance of these mutations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have been reported.
Methods
A total of 368 newly diagnosed non-M3 AML patients were included in this study. Next generation sequencing including four SF genes was performed on the genomic DNA. The clinical features and survival were analyzed using statistical analysis. SRSF2P95H function was assessed by CCK8 assay.
Results
We found that 64 of 368 patients harbored SF mutations. The SF mutations were much more frequent in older or male patients compared with SF-wild patients. SRSF2 mutations were shown obviously co-existed with IDH2 mutation. The level of measurable residual disease after the first chemotherapy was higher in SF-mutated patients compared to that in SF-wild patients, while the complete remission rate was significantly decreased. And the overall survival (OS) of SF-mutated patients was shorter than that of SF-wild patients. Moreover, our multivariable analysis suggests that the index of male, Kit mutation or ZRSR2 mutation was the independent risk factor for OS. SRSF2mut was associated with older age, higher proportion of peripheral blasts or abnormal cell proportion by FCM (Flow CytoMetry). Functionally, the mutation of SRSF2P95H significantly promoted the proliferation of AML cells.
Conclusion
Spliceosome mutation is a distinct subgroup of AML frequently associated with clinic-biological features and poor outcome. SRSF2mut could be potential targets for novel treatment in AML.
End-of-century heat and drought stress approaching Europe swiftly
Authors: Suarez-Gutierrez Laura , Müller Wolfgang , Marotzke Jochem
Published: April 2023

Extreme heat and drought levels typical of an end-of-century climate could occur swiftly, and repeatedly. Despite the European climate being potentially prone to multi-year successive extremes due to the influence of the North Atlantic variability, it remains unclear how the likelihood of such successive extremes changes under warming, how early they could reach end-of-century levels, and how this is affected by internal climate variability. Using the MPI Grand Ensemble, we find that even under moderate warming, end-of-century heat and drought levels virtually impossible 20 years ago reach 1-in-10 likelihoods as early as the 2030s. By 2050-2075, two successive years of single or compound end-of-century extremes, unprecedented to date, exceed 1-in-10 likelihoods; while Europe-wide 5-year megadroughts become plausible. Whole decades of end-of-century heat stress could start by 2040, by 2020 for rain-deficit drought, and end-of-century decades starting as early as 2030 become twice as likely under a warm North Atlantic state.
Blueberry Intake Elevates Post-Exercise Anti- inflammatory Oxylipins: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Nieman David C. , Sakaguchi Camila A. , Omar Ashraf M. , Davis Kierstin L. , Shaffner Cameron E. , Strauch Renee C. , Lila Mary Ann , Zhang Qibin
Published: April 2023

This study determined if 18 days of supplementation with blueberries (BL) compared to placebo (PL) could mitigate muscle soreness and damage and improve inflammation resolution in untrained adults (n = 49, ages 30–65 y) after engaging in a 90-minute bout of “weekend warrior” eccentric exercise. The BL freeze dried supplement provided 1 cup of fresh blueberries per day equivalent with 805 mg/d total phenolics and 280 mg/d anthocyanins. Urine levels of eight BL gut-derived phenolics increased after 14- and 18-days supplementation with 83% higher concentrations in BL vs. PL (p < 0.001). The 90-min exercise bout caused significant muscle soreness and damage during 4d of recovery and a decrease in exercise performance with no significant differences between PL and BL. Plasma oxylipins (n = 76) were identified and grouped by fatty acid substrates and enzyme systems. Linoleic acid (LA) oxylipins generated from cytochrome P450 (CYP) (9,10-, 12,13-dihydroxy-9Z-octadecenoic acids) (diHOMEs) were lower in BL vs. PL (treatment effect, p = 0.051). A compositive variable of 9 plasma hydroxydocosahexaenoic acids (HDoHEs) generated from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6) and lipoxygenase (LOX) was significantly higher in BL vs. PL (treatment effect, p = 0.008). The composite variable of plasma 14-HDoHE, 17-HDoHE, and the eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-derived oxylipin 18-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid (18-HEPE) (specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators, SPM, intermediates) was significantly higher in BL vs PL (treatment effect, p = 0.014). Pearson correlations showed positive relationships between post-exercise DHA-LOX HDoHEs and SPM intermediates with urine blueberry gut-derived phenolics (r = 0.324, p = 0.023, and r = 0.349, p = 0.015, respectively). These data indicate that 18d intake of 1 cup/d blueberries compared to PL was linked to a reduction in pro-inflammatory diHOMES and sustained elevations in DHA- and EPA-derived anti-inflammatory oxylipins in response to a 90-min bout of unaccustomed exercise by untrained adults.
Towards inclusive green growth: Does digital economy matter?
Authors: Xin Chunhua , Fan Shuangshuang , Mbanyele William , Shahbaz Muhammad
Published: April 2023

In this decade, China has been pursuing an inclusive green growth strategy. Concurrently, the digital economy, which relies on the Internet of Things, big data and artificial intelligence, has experienced explosive growth in China. The digital economy’s capacity to optimize resource allocation and reduce energy consumption potentially makes it a conducive channel toward sustainability. Using the panel data of 281 cities in China from 2011 to 2020, we theoretically and empirically explore the impact of the digital economy on inclusive green growth. Firstly, we measure the digital economy, and inclusive green growth city levels using Entropy-TOPSIS and DEA approaches, respectively. Then, we apply traditional econometric estimation models and machine learning algorithms in our empirical analysis. The results show that China's high-powered digital economy significantly promotes inclusive green growth. Moreover, we analyze the internal mechanisms behind this impact. We find that innovation and industrial upgrading are two plausible channels that explain this effect. Additionally, we document a nonlinear feature of diminishing marginal effect between the digital economy and inclusive green growth. The heterogeneity analysis shows that the contribution weight of the digital economy to inclusive green growth is more remarkable in eastern region cities, large and medium-sized cities, and cities with high marketization. Overall, these findings shed more light on the digital economy-inclusive green growth nexus and provide new insights into understanding the real effects of the digital economy on sustainable development.
Dynamic functional changes upon thalamotomy in essential tremor depend on baseline brain morphometry
Authors: Bolton Thomas A.W. , De Ville Dimitri Van , Régis Jean , Witjas Tatiana , Girard Nadine , Levivier Marc , Tuleasca Constantin
Published: April 2023

Patients with drug-resistant essential tremor (ET) may undergo Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgical thalamotomy (SRS-T), where the ventro-intermediate nucleus of the thalamus (Vim) is lesioned by focused beams of gamma radiations to induce clinical improvement. Here, we studied SRS-T impacts on left Vim dynamic functional connectivity (dFC, n = 23 ET patients scanned before and 1 year after intervention), and on surface-based morphometric brain features (n = 34 patients, including those from dFC analysis). In matched healthy controls (HCs), three dFC states were extracted from resting-state functional MRI data. In ET patients, state 1 spatial stability increased upon SRS-T (p = 0.0041). Lower pre-intervention spatial variability in state 2 expression, and more frequent expression of state 3 over state 1, correlated with greater clinical recovery (p = 0.015 and p = 0.008, respectively). ET morphometric profiles showed significantly lower similarity to HCs in 13 regions upon SRS-T (p ≤ 0.02), and a joint analysis revealed that before thalamotomy, morphometric similarity and states 2/3 mean spatial similarity to HCs were anticorrelated, a relationship that disappeared upon SRS-T (p < 0.001). Our results show that left Vim functional dynamics directly relates to upper limb tremor lowering upon intervention, while morphometry instead has a supporting role in reshaping such dynamics.
Equatorial Spread-F Forecasting Model with Local Factors using the Long-Short Term Memory Network
Authors: Thammavongsy Phimmasone , Supnithi Pornchai , Myint Lin Min Min , Hozumi Kornyanat , Lakanchanh Donekeo
Published: April 2023

The predictability of the nighttime equatorial spread-F (ESF) irregularity is essential to the ionospheric disturbance warning system. In this work, we develop the ESF forecasting model using the Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) network trained with new local input parameters at Chumphon station, Thailand near the magnetic equator, where the ESF onset typically occurs. The LSTM model is trained and tested using the ionogram data from 2008 to 2018 and 2019 during March and September equinoctial months. The input parameters are considered including diurnal variations, seasonal variations, solar activity, magnetic activity, local F-layer height variation, local F-layer drift velocity, and power spectrum of the atmospheric gravity waves. We analyze the ESF forecasting model in terms of monthly probability, daily probability and occurrence, and diurnal predictions. As a result, the proposed LSTM model can achieve 85.4% accuracy when the local F-layer drift velocity and atmospheric grativity waves are utilized. The local gravity wave parameter exhibits an important role on improvements of the LSTM model during post-midnight. When compare to the IRI-2016 model, the proposed LSTM model can provide lower error. Comparison between ANN and LSTM models are exhibited that the LSTM model provides lower error than the ANN in February, March, April, and October.
The integration of quantitative metabolic and proteomic analysis uncovers an augmentation of the sphingolipid biosynthesis pathway during T-cell differentiation
Authors: Kanno Toshio , Konno Ryo , Sato Masaru , Kurabayashi Atsushi , Miyako Keisuke , Nakajima Takahiro , Yokoyama Satoru , Sasamoto Shigemi , Asou Hikari , Ohzeki Junichiro , Hasegawa Yoshinori , Ikeda Kazutaka , Kawashima Yusuke , Ohara Osamu , Endo Yusuke
Published: April 2023

Recent studies have highlighted the significance of cellular metabolism in the initiation of clonal expansion and effector differentiation of T cells. Upon exposure to antigens, naïve CD4+ T cells undergo metabolic reprogramming to meet their metabolic requirements. However, only few studies have simultaneously evaluated the changes in protein and metabolite levels during T cell differentiation. Our research seeks to fill the gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of changes in levels of metabolites, including sugars, amino acids, intermediates of the TCA cycle, fatty acids, and lipids. By integrating metabolomics and proteomics data, we discovered that the quantity and composition of cellular lipids underwent significant changes in different effector Th cell subsets. Especially, we found that the sphingolipid biosynthesis pathway was commonly activated in Th1, Th2, Th17, and iTreg cells and that inhibition of this pathway led to the suppression of Th17 and iTreg cell differentiation. Additionally, we discovered that Th17 and iTreg cells enhance glycosphingolipid metabolism, and inhibition of this pathway also results in the suppression of Th17 and iTreg cell generation. These findings demonstrate that the utility of our combined metabolomics and proteomics analysis in furthering the understanding of metabolic transition during Th cell differentiation.
Biogenic of CuO nanoparticles using the plant extract Ephedra Alata applied to the removal of methylene blue from wastewater, and its statistical physics analysis
Authors: atri afrah , echabaane Mosaab , Bouzid Mohamed , Lamine Abdelmottaleb Ben , Chaâbane Rafik Ben
Published: April 2023

Water contaminants due to industrial organic dyes are posing serious human health and environmental problems. Adsorption technology has been widely used in wastewater remediation because of its simplicity, low cost, high effectiveness, and potential to use eco-friendly, non-toxic materials. Herein, the work presents an experimental and theoretical study of the adsorption process of Methylene Blue (MB) dye onto new biogenic copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) from Ephedra Alata plant extract. The CuO NPs were synthesized via a green chemistry approach and characterized by FE-SEM, EDXS, TEM, XRD, UV–Visible, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopies. The biosynthesized CuO-NPs present a large surface area, nanosize, and a monoclinic structure with phenolic, flavonoid, and hydroxyl groups on the surface. Adsorption tests were carried out under optimal conditions such as pH (7), dye concentration (10 mg/L), and adsorbent dose (0.02 g) to remove the most methylene blue dye from the solution. Adsorption isotherms showed that the capacity of MB adsorbed onto the biosynthesized CuO-NPs increased to 110 and 133.75 mg/g by increasing the temperature to 293 and 323 K, respectively. These experimental data were modeled using statistical physics theory in order to describe the steric and energetic factors involved in the removal of dye, as well as the adsorption mechanism. The modeling analysis demonstrated that MB adsorbed on the CuO-NPs adsorbent surface in a non-parallel orientation. Additionally, the investigated showed the energies of adsorption less than 40 kJ mol− 1. According to adsorption energy values, this mechanism progresses by physical adsorption. In summary, green synthesized CuO-NPs are potential materials for organic chemical removal from wastewater treatment.
Prevalence and causes of medication transcription errors among hospitalized patients: An observational study and survey of nurses at a faith-based hospital in Cameroon
Authors: ntani Suh Nsutebu , Sangha Yong Marie Noel
Published: April 2023

Background
Medication errors are a leading cause of death globally with the burden on resource-limited countries more than double that in high-income countries. Errors could occur at all stages of the medication use process, however, there is limited information on medication transcription errors (MTEs) within hospitalized patients in Africa. This study sought to determine the prevalence and types of MTEs and to assess nurse’s perceptions of the likely causes of MTEs within the pediatric and general wards at a faith-based hospital in Cameroon
Methods
This was a prospective chart review of medication orders transcribed for patients admitted from the 1st to the 30th of April 2021. Data analyzed included patient demographics, prevalence of MTEs, types of MTEs, medication classes involved in MTEs, and nurse’s perceptions of the causes of MTEs.
Results
There were a total of 578 medication orders for 75 patients, 53% (n = 40) were female, and 30 were admitted to the children’s ward. Thirty-eight MTEs were recorded, 47% occurred on the medication administration sheet and medication cards. The most frequent MTEs were omission of new and stop medication orders which were involved in 28.9 and 26% of all MTEs respectively. Antibacterials for systemic use were involved in the majority (55.3%) of MTEs. Illegible prescriptions (90.7%), distractions (87.0%), and higher workload (77.8%) were ascribed as the most likely causes of MTEs.
Conclusion
MTEs were common and posed a potential risk of patient harm in hospitalized patients. The adoption of a computerized provider order entry system could eliminate illegible prescriptions, transcription, and reduce workload thereby improving patient safety.
Outcomes of Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole treatment for ocular toxoplasmosis in Congolese patients
Authors: Lusambo Nadine Nsiangani , Kaimbo Dieudonné Kaimbo Wa , Ngoyi Dieudonné Mumba , de-la-Torre Alejandra
Published: April 2023

Background
Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is the leading cause of infectious posterior uveitis in several areas worldwide. The combination of Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) has been presented as an attractive alternative to the “classic’ treatment therapy (Pyrimethamine/Sulfadiazine).
Methods
A prospective study was carried out between February 2020 and September 2021 in 2 ophthalmic centers in Kinshasa. This study aimed to describe TMP/SMX treatment outcomes for OT in a cohort of immunocompetent Congolese patients.
Results
54 patients were included, with a mean age at presentation of 37.5 ± 13.6 years old and a Male-Female ratio of 1.45:1. Three patients (5.6%) presented a recurrence during the follow-up period. At the end of the follow-up, improvement in VA and resolution of inflammation concerned 75.9% and 77.5% of patients, respectively. Cataracts (3.7%), macular scars (3.7%), and vitreous opacities (3.7%) were the principal causes of non-improvement in VA. Treatment-related adverse events were present in 10 patients (18.5%); gastrointestinal (14.8%) and dermatological (3.7%) adverse events were the most frequent. Dermatological adverse events led to discontinuation of treatment.
Conclusion
TMP/SMX regimen appears to be a safe and effective treatment for OT in Congolese patients. The low cost and the accessibility of the molecules make this regimen an option for treating OT in resource-limited countries.
Cytoskeletal remodeling defines nucleolar architecture during adipogenesis
Authors: Potolitsyna Evdokiia , Pickering Sarah Hazell , Germier Thomas , Collas Philippe , briand Nolwenn
Published: April 2023

Differentiation of adipose progenitor cells into mature adipocytes entails a dramatic reorganization of the cellular architecture to accommodate lipid storage into cytoplasmic lipid droplets. Lipid droplets occupy most of the adipocyte volume, compressing the nucleus beneath the plasma membrane. How this cellular remodeling affects sub-nuclear structure, including size and number of nucleoli, remains unclear. We describe the morphological remodeling of the nucleus and the nucleolus during in vitro adipogenic differentiation of primary human adipose stem cells. We find that cell cycle arrest elicits a remodeling of nucleolar structure which correlates with a decrease in protein synthesis. Strikingly, triggering cytoskeletal rearrangements mimics the nucleolar remodeling observed during adipogenesis. Our results point to nucleolar remodeling as an active, mechano-regulated mechanism during adipogenic differentiation and demonstrate a key role of the actin cytoskeleton in defining nuclear and nucleolar architecture in differentiating human adipose stem cells.
Taking stock of population-level interventions targeting risk factors for hypertension and diabetes in Rwanda and South Africa: methodological reflections and lessons learnt from conducting a multi-component situational analysis
Authors: Nicol J Uwimana - , JP Nganabashaka , KD Tumusiime , Young T , Rehfuess E , Burns J
Published: April 2023

Background
Hypertension and diabetes are on the rise both in Rwanda and South Africa. The responsibility for NCD risk factors cut across different sectors, which makes it complex to effectively manage. Policy-relevant intervention research is thus critical for addressing the NCD challenge. We conducted a situational analysis in both countries to identify and describe current population-level interventions targeting risk factors for diabetes and hypertension. This paper presents this methodology and shares challenges encountered, and lessons learnt in applying the methodology.
Methods
We describe a multi-component methodology for conducting a situational analysis, which included a desk review, stakeholder mapping, survey, key informant interviews, and a consultative workshop. This methodology was applied in a standardized manner in two African countries. Following the analysis, the authors held iterative team consultations to reflect on challenges and lessons learnt during this process.
Results
Key challenges and lessons learnt relate to: i) stakeholder recruitment, engagement and retainment; ii) utilization and triangulation of multiple sources of data; and iii) evolving circumstances, particularly related to the Covid-19 pandemic. It proved challenging to recruit stakeholders outside the health sector and in the private sector, as they often do not consider themselves as making or influencing policies and thus were reluctant to engage. The difficulties with responsiveness were often overcome through face-to-face visits, an opportunity to explain the relevance of their participation. With regards to health sector stakeholders and all other stakeholders, continued engagement over prolonged periods of time also turned out to be challenging. Covid-19 restrictions were preserved to be an impediment throughout the conduct of the situational analysis, specifically in South Africa. The use of multi-stage mixed-methods was found to be appropriate for addressing the study objectives, as each step yielded unique data, concepts, and perspectives that complemented the other data.
Conclusion
Conducting a situational analysis is crucial for understanding the current state of interventions and identifying opportunities for new interventions. The multi-component methodology used in two African countries was found to be feasible, appropriate, and informative. Others planning to conduct situational analysis may follow, adapt and improve upon our approach, reacting to the challenges encountered.
Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block versus Bier block for emergency reduction of upper limb injuries: a protocol for an open-label, non-inferiority, randomised control trial
Authors: Tsao Henry , Tang Christopher , Trembath Mark , Jones Philip , Snelling Peter J
Published: April 2023

Background: Closed reduction of upper limb fractures and/or dislocations are common in the emergency department (ED), which involves physically re-aligning the injured part prior to immobilisation. As this is painful, numerous techniques are available to provide regional anaesthesia to ensure patient tolerance. A Bier block (BB) is typically performed as part of routine care. An alternative technique gaining interest in the ED is ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block (UGSCB), which involves injecting local anaesthetic around the brachial plexus at the supraclavicular fossa under ultrasound guidance. It is unclear whether UGSCB is effective and safe when performed in the ED.
Methods: SUPERB (SUPraclavicular block for Emergency Reduction versus Bier block) is a prospective open-label, non-inferiority randomised controlled trial that compares the effectiveness of UGSCB versus BB for closed reduction of upper limb fractures and/or dislocations. Adult participants presenting with an upper limb fracture and/or dislocation that requires emergent closed reduction in the ED will be eligible. After screening, participants will be randomised to either UGSCB or BB. Once regional anaesthesia is obtained, closed reduction of the injured part will be performed and appropriately immobilised. The primary outcome is maximal pain experienced during closed reduction measured via a visual analogue scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes include baseline and post-reduction pain, patient satisfaction, total opioid requirement in ED, ED length of stay, adverse events and regional anaesthesia failure.
Discussion: Existing evidence suggests UGSCB is effective when performed in the operating theatre by trained anaesthetists. SUPERB will be the first randomised controlled trial to elucidate the effectiveness and safety of UGSCB in the ED. The findings have the potential to provide an alternative safe and effective option for the management of upper extremity emergencies in the ED.
Trial registration: This trial has been registered with Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622001356752).
Sex differences in the frailty phenotype and mortality in the I-Lan Longitudinal Aging Study cohort
Authors: Lu Ya-Wen , Chang Chun-Chin , Chou Ruey-Hsing , Lee Wei-Ju , Chen Liang-Kung , Huang Po-Hsun , Lin Shing-Jong
Published: April 2023

Background: Frailty is a common geriatric syndrome related to multiple adverse outcomes. Sex differences in its prevalence and impact on mortality remain incompletely understood.
Methods: This study was conducted with data from the I-Lan Longitudinal Aging Study, in which community-dwelling subjects aged > 50 years without coronary artery disease or diabetes were enrolled. Sex disparities in phenotypically defined frailty and sex–morality predictor interactions were evaluated. Sex- and frailty-stratified analyses of mortality were performed.
Results: The sample comprised 1371 subjects (51.4% women, median age 61 years). The median follow-up period was 6.3 (interquartile range, 5.8–7.0) years. The frailty prevalence did not differ between men (5.3%) and women (5.8%). Frail individuals were older and less educated and had poorer renal function than did non-frail individuals. Body composition trends differed between sexes, regardless of frailty. Relative to non-frail men, frail men had significantly lower body mass indices (BMIs; 24.5 vs. 23.4 kg/m2, p = 0.04) and relative appendicular skeletal muscle masses (7.87 vs. 7.05 kg/m2, p < 0.001). Frail women had significantly higher BMIs (25.2 vs. 23.9 kg/m2, p = 0.02) and waist circumferences (88 vs. 80 cm, p < 0.001) than did non-frail women. Frailty was an independent mortality predictor for men only [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) = 3.395 (1.809–6.371), psex–frailty interaction = 0.03].
Conclusion: Frailty reflected poorer health in men than in women in the present cohort. This study revealed sex disparities in the impact of frailty on mortality among relatively healthy community-dwelling older adults.
Depression Score Mediate the Association between A Body Shape Index and Infertility in Overweight and Obesity Females, NHANES 2013-2018
Authors: Pan Qiangwei , Shen Xiaolu , Li Hongfeng , Zhu Bo , Chen Dake , Pan Jiajia
Published: April 2023

Background: Previous observational studies have associated infertility with fundamental physical parameters, including BMI, waist circumference, and excessive weight. Here, we introduced another convincing body shape parameter called A body shape index (ABSI), which can be calculated using waist circumference, weight, and height. To explore the association between ABSI and infertility in overweight and obese females, and the potential mediating factor in the association, we conducted this cross-sectional study.
Methods: 5431 adult female participants from NHANES 2013-2018 were included in this study. The definition of infertility was based on the interviewees' answers to the reproductive health questionnaire, which asked if they had visited a doctor because they had been unable to conceive or had tried to get pregnant for at least a year without success. ABSI was calculated as a continuous variable using an acknowledged equation. PHQ-9 score was assessed when face-to-face interviews for all participants, reflecting their depression symptoms.
Results: Among 5431 participants, 596 females (10.97% ) were diagnosed with infertility. Age, BMI, and ABSI were higher in infertile females. In multivariable logistic regression models, infertility status was positively related to increased ABSI (OR: 1.78e+15, 95% CI: 2.78e+5 to 1.15e+25), adjusted model by adjusting age, race/ethnicity, educational background, and family income. PHQ-9 score mediated 0.2% (p <0.05) of the link between ABSI and infertility in all individuals, but 13.5% (p <0.01) in overweight and obese adult females.
Conclusion: Depression score might increase ABSI and induce infertility state among adult females with overweight and obesity.
Influence of the timing of biological treatment initiation on Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis long- term outcomes
Authors: Oliveira-Ramos Filipa , Rodrigues Ana Maria , Melo Ana Teresa , Aguiar Francisca , Brites Luísa , Azevedo Soraia , Duarte Ana Catarina , Gomes José António Melo , Furtado Carolina , Mourão Ana Filipa , Sequeira Graça , Cunha Inês , Figueira Ricardo , Santos Maria José , Fonseca João Eurico
Published: April 2023

Backgroud: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) treatment is aimed at inducing remission to prevent joint destruction and disability. However, it is unclear what is the long-term impact on health-related outcomes of the timing of biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (bDMARD) initiation in JIA. Our aim was to evaluate the long-term impact of the time between JIA onset and the initiation of a bDMARD in achieving clinical remission, on physical disability and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
Methods: Adult JIA patients registered in the Rheumatic Diseases Portuguese Register (Reuma.pt) and ever treated with bDMARD were included. Data regarding socio-demographic, JIA-related characteristics, disease activity, physical disability (HAQ-DI), HRQoL (SF-36) and treatments were collected at the last visit. Patients were divided into 3 groups (£ 2 years, 2-5 years, or > 5 years), according to the time from disease onset to bDMARD initiation. Regression models were obtained considering remission on/off medication, HAQ-DI, SF-36 and joint surgeries as outcomes and time from disease onset to bDMARD start as an independent variable.
Results: 361 adult JIA patients were evaluated, with a median disease duration of 20.3 [IQR 12.1; 30.2] years. 40.4% had active disease, 35.1% were in remission on medication and 24.4% in drug-free remission; 71% reported some degree of physical disability. Starting a bDMARD > 5 years after disease onset decreased the chance of achieving remission off medication (OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.06, 0.92; p= 0.038). Patients who started a bDMARD after 5 years of disease onset had a higher HAQ and worse scores in the physical component, vitality and social function domains of SF-36, and more joint surgeries when compared to an earlier start.
Conclusion: Later initiation of bDMARDs in JIA is associated with greater physical disability, worse HRQoL and lower chance of drug-free remission in adulthood.