bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of school summer holidays on inequalities in children and young people’s mental health and cognitive ability in the UK using data from the millennium cohort study
Authors: Kromydas Theocharis , Campbell Mhairi , Chambers Stephanie , Boon Michele Hilton , Pearce Anna , Wells Valerie , Craig Peter
Published: January 2022

Background

Summer learning loss has been the subject of longstanding concern among researchers, the public and policy makers. The aim of the current research was to investigate inequality changes in children’s mental health and cognitive ability across the summer holidays.

Methods

We conducted linear and logistic regression analysis of mental health (borderline-abnormal total difficulty and prosocial scores on the strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ)) and verbal cognitive ability (reading, verbal reasoning or vocabulary) at ages 7, 11 and 14, comparing UK Millennium Cohort Study members who were interviewed before and after the school summer holidays. Inequalities were assessed by including interaction terms in the outcome models between a discrete binary variable with values representing time periods and maternal academic qualifications. Coefficients of the interaction terms were interpreted as changes from the pre- to post-holiday period in the extent of inequality in the outcome between participants whose mothers had high or low educational qualifications. Separate models were fitted for each age group and outcome. We used inverse probability weights to allow for differences in the characteristics of cohort members assessed before and after the summer holidays.

Results

Mental health (borderline/abnormal SDQ total and prosocial scores) at ages 7 and 14 worsened and verbal cognitive ability scores at age 7 were lower among those surveyed after the summer holidays. Mental health inequalities were larger after the holidays at age 7 ([OR = 1.4; 95%CI (0.6, 3.2) and 14: [OR = 1.5; 95%CI (0.7, 3.2)], but changed little at age 11 (OR = 0.9; 95%CI (0.4, 2.6)]. There were differences in pro-social behaviours among those surveyed before/after the school holidays at age 14 [OR = 1.2; 95%CI (0.5, 3.5)] but not at age 7 or 11. There was little change in inequalities in verbal cognitive ability scores over the school holidays [Age 7: b = 1.3; 95%CI (− 3.3, 6.0); Age 11: b = − 0.7; 95%CI (− 4.3, 2.8); Age 14: b = − 0.3; 95%CI (− 1.0, 0.4)].

Conclusion

We found inequalities in mental health and cognitive ability according to maternal education, and some evidence or worsening mental health and mental health inequalities across school summer holidays. We found little evidence of widening inequalities in verbal cognitive ability. Widespread school closures during the COVID-19 restrictions have prompted concerns that prolonged closures may widen health and educational inequalities. Management of school closures should focus on preventing or mitigating inequalities that may arise from differences in the support for mental health and learning provided during closures by schools serving more or less disadvantaged children.
Effects of curcumin supplementation on vitamin D levels in women with premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Arabnezhad Leyla , Mohammadifard Mahtab , Rahmani Ladan , Majidi Zahra , Ferns Gordon A. , Bahrami Afsane
Published: January 2022

Background

Vitamin D has an established role in female reproduction. There is also evidence for an association between vitamin D levels and menstrual problems such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and dysmenorrhea. Curcumin, is a bioactive polyphenol constituent of turmeric, that can potentially interact with vitamin D receptors and its molecular targets. This study evaluated the effects of curcumin on vitamin D levels in young women with PMS and dysmenorrhea.

Methods

In this randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial, women with PMS and dysmenorrhea were divided randomly into experimental and control groups to receive one capsule (500 mg of curcuminoid+ 5 mg piperine, or placebo) daily, from approximately 7 days before until 3 days after menstruation for three consecutive menstrual cycles. Serum vitamin D levels, renal function, and liver enzymes were also measured before and after intervention.

Results

A total of 76 subjects (38 in each group) were recruited into the trial. Curcumin significantly increased the median (IQR) serum levels of vitamin D [from 12.8 ng/ml (7.0–24.6) to 16.2 ng/ml (6.4–28.8);P = 0.045], compared with placebo [from 18.6 ng/ml (2.2–26.8) to 21.3 ng/ml (5.2–27.1);P = 0.17]. Serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase and direct bilirubin were reduced by the end of trial in the curcumin group (p < 0.05), but did not change significantly in the control group (p > 0.05). Finally, no significant differences in levels of fasting blood glucose were detected between curcumin and placebo groups.

Conclusion

Curcumin supplementation in women with PMS and dysmenorrhea led to a significant improvement of vitamin D, liver function enzyme test, but did not affect blood glucose.

Trial registration

The trial was registered on Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials registry (Trial ID: IRCT20191112045424N1 on 23 January 2020; available athttps://www.irct.ir).
Deep learning based high-throughput phenotyping of chalkiness in rice exposed to high night temperature
Authors: Wang Chaoxin , Caragea Doina , Kodadinne Narayana Nisarga , Hein Nathan T. , Bheemanahalli Raju , Somayanda Impa M. , Jagadish S. V. Krishna
Published: January 2022

Background

Rice is a major staple food crop for more than half the world’s population. As the global population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, increasing the production of high-quality rice is needed to meet the anticipated increased demand. However, global environmental changes, especially increasing temperatures, can affect grain yield and quality. Heat stress is one of the major causes of an increased proportion of chalkiness in rice, which compromises quality and reduces the market value. Researchers have identified 140 quantitative trait loci linked to chalkiness mapped across 12 chromosomes of the rice genome. However, the available genetic information acquired by employing advances in genetics has not been adequately exploited due to a lack of a reliable, rapid and high-throughput phenotyping tool to capture chalkiness. To derive extensive benefit from the genetic progress achieved, tools that facilitate high-throughput phenotyping of rice chalkiness are needed.

Results

We use a fully automated approach based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM) to detect chalkiness in rice grain images. Specifically, we train a CNN model to distinguish between chalky and non-chalky grains and subsequently use Grad-CAM to identify the area of a grain that is indicative of the chalky class. The area identified by the Grad-CAM approach takes the form of a smooth heatmap that can be used to quantify the degree of chalkiness. Experimental results on both polished and unpolished rice grains using standard instance classification and segmentation metrics have shown that Grad-CAM can accurately identify chalky grains and detect the chalkiness area.

Conclusions

We have successfully demonstrated the application of a Grad-CAM based tool to accurately capture high night temperature induced chalkiness in rice. The models trained will be made publicly available. They are easy-to-use, scalable and can be readily incorporated into ongoing rice breeding programs, without rice researchers requiring computer science or machine learning expertise.
Improving large-scale biomass and total alkaloid production of Dendrobium nobile Lindl. using a temporary immersion bioreactor system and MeJA elicitation
Authors: Zhang Benhou , Niu Zhitao , Li Chao , Hou Zhenyu , Xue Qingyun , Liu Wei , Ding Xiaoyu
Published: January 2022

Background

Dendrobium nobile Lindl. is an important pharmacopeial plant with medicinal and ornamental value. This study sought to provide a technical means for the large-scale production of total alkaloid in D. nobile. Seedlings were cultured in vitro using a temporary immersion bioreactor system (TIBS). The four tested immersion frequencies (min/h; 5/2, 5/4, 5/6, and 5/8) influenced the production of biomass and total alkaloid content. In addition, to compare the effects of different concentrations of the phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and treatment time on biomass and total alkaloid accumulation, MeJA was added to the TIBS medium after 50 days. Finally, total alkaloid production in semi-solid system (SSS), TIBS, and TIBS combined with the MeJA system (TIBS-MeJA) were compared.

Results

The best immersion frequency was found to be 5/6 (5 min every 6 h), which ensured appropriate levels of biomass and total alkaloid content in plantlets. The alkaloid content and production level of seedlings were the highest after treatment with 10 μM MeJA separately for 20 and 30 days using TIBS. The maximum content (7.41 mg/g DW) and production level (361.24 mg/L) of total alkaloid on use of TIBS-MeJA were 2.32- and 4.69-fold, respectively, higher in terms of content, and 2.07- and 10.49-fold, respectively, higher in terms of production level than those on using of TIBS (3.20 mg/g DW, 174.34 mg/L) and SSS (1.58 mg/g DW, 34.44 mg/L).

Conclusions

Our results show TIBS-MeJA is suitable for large-scale production of total alkaloid in in vitro seedlings. Therefore, this study provides a technical means for the large-scale production of total alkaloid in D. nobile.
Chylothorax after pulmonary resection and lymph node dissection for primary lung cancer; retrospective observational study
Authors: Yasuura Yoshiyuki , Konno Hayato , Hayakawa Takamitsu , Terada Yukihiro , Mizuno Kiyomichi , Kayata Hiroyuki , Kojima Hideaki , Mizuno Tetsuya , Isaka Mitsuhiro , Ohde Yasuhisa
Published: January 2022

Background

Pulmonary resection with mediastinal lymph node dissection for treating primary lung cancer could sometimes causes chylothorax as a postoperative complication. This study examined the validity of treatments for chylothorax in our hospital.

Methods

We evaluated 2019 patients who underwent lobectomy, bilobectomy, or pneumonectomy with mediastinal lymph node dissection for primary lung cancer at Shizuoka Cancer Center Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan, between September 2002 and March 2018. The diagnostic criteria for postoperative chylothorax were that the drainage from the pleural drain was evidently white and turbid, or the pleural effusion contained a triglyceride level of > 110 mg/dL. The clinical courses and treatments were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Postoperative chylothorax occurred in 37 patients (1.8%), 20 men and 17 women, with a median age of 70 years (33–80). A low-fat diet was instituted to all patients; 35 cases improved with conservative treatment, and 2 cases required reoperation. Nine cases had a drainage volume ≥ 500 mL one day following the low-fat diet commencement, which was resolved with conservative treatment and decreased drainage was observed on the third day of treatment in seven of those cases. Two cases with excessive drainage of ≥ 1000 mL in one day and systemic symptoms associated with chyle loss needed surgery.

Conclusions

Even when the daily drainage volume exceeds 500 mL following a low-fat diet, there were many cases that could be cured conservatively. The indication for surgery needs to be carefully considered.
tRF3008A suppresses the progression and metastasis of colorectal cancer by destabilizing FOXK1 in an AGO-dependent manner
Authors: Han Ying , Peng Yinghui , Liu Shanshan , Wang Xinwen , Cai Changjing , Guo Cao , Chen Yihong , Gao Le , Huang Qiaoqiao , He Min , Shen Edward , Long Jie , Yu Jian , Shen Hong , Zeng Shan
Published: January 2022

Background

tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) have been shown to have critical regulatory roles in cancer biology. However, the contributions of tRFs to colorectal cancer (CRC) remain largely unknown.

Methods

tRF3008A (a tRFRNA derived from tRNAVal) was identified by RNA sequencing and validated by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The role of tRF3008A in CRC progression was assessed both in vitro and in vivo, and its downstream target genes were identified and validated in CRC cells. RNA pull-down with mass spectrometry and AGO-RIP were used to confirm the interaction of tRF3008A and AGO proteins. The clinical implications of tRF3008A were assessed in CRC tissues and blood samples.

Results

The expression of tRF3008A was reduced in colorectal cancer, and its reduction was significantly correlated with advanced and metastatic disease in CRC. Patients with low tRF3008A expression showed significantly shorter DFS, and multivariate analysis identified tRF3008A as an independent prognostic biomarker in CRC. Functionally, tRF3008A inhibits the proliferation and migration of CRC in vivo and in vitro by repressing endogenous FOXK1, a positive regulator of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Mechanistically, tRF3008A binds to AGO proteins as a guide to destabilize oncogenic FOXK1 transcript.

Conclusions

tRF3008A suppresses the metastasis and progression of colorectal cancer by destabilizing FOXK1 in an AGO-dependent manner.
Lost in another language: a case report
Authors: Salamah Husam K. Z. , Mortier Eva , Wassenberg Renske , Strik Jacqueline J. M. H.
Published: January 2022

Background

In foreign language syndrome, patients switch from their native language and fixate for a period of time on a second language. There have been few reported cases. The language switch typically occurs postoperatively and spontaneously resolves after a short period of time. The primary cause of this switching remains unclear. There is speculation about the involvement of anesthesia, but its specific influence remains unclear.

Case presentation

A 17-year-old Dutch Caucasian male lost the ability to understand and speak Dutch for 24 hours after an orthopedic surgery, combined with a brief confused state including disorientation of place and the inability to recognize his parents. During the period, he communicated in English, which he had learned during school classes but had never spoken outside of school. Further follow-up, including neuropsychological examination, revealed no indication of cognitive impairment.

Conclusions

The exact pathophysiology of foreign language syndrome remains unclear, most specifically whether it is a syndrome of its own or a phenotype of emergence delirium. There is still much to be learned, and further research is needed.
Mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm caused by Borrelia afzelii: a case report
Authors: Torsteinsen Magne , Nilsen Hans-Johnny Schjeldrup , Damås Jan Kristian , Stensvåg-Midelfart Dordi , Nyrønning Linn Åldstedt , Bergh Kåre
Published: January 2022

Background

Inflammatory aneurysms and mycotic aneurysms make up a minority of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Mainly autoimmune mechanisms are proposed in the pathogenesis of inflammatory aneurysms, and it is not routine to check for infectious agents as disease culprits.

Case presentation

A 58-year-old European male with complaints of abdominal and back pain for 8 weeks was admitted after a semi-urgent computed tomography scan revealed an 85 mm inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm. The patient had normal vital signs, slightly elevated inflammatory markers, and mild anemia on admission. Clinical examination revealed a tender pulsating mass in his abdomen. His clinical condition was interpreted as impending rupture and urgent repair of the aneurysm was deemed necessary. Due to the patient’s relatively young age and aneurysm neck morphology, open aortic repair was preferred. Preoperatively, the aneurysm appeared inflamed, with fibrous wall thickening and perianeurysmal adhesions. Aneurysm wall biopsies were sent to histopathological and microbiological diagnostics. Routine cultures were negative, but 16S rRNA gene real-time polymerase chain reaction was positive and Borrelia afzelii was identified by DNA sequencing of the polymerase chain reaction product. B. afzelii was also identified by sequencing the polymerase chain reaction product of a Borrelia-specific groEL target. Immunoglobulin G and M anti-Borrelia antibodies were present on serological analysis. Histopathological analysis displayed loss of normal aortic wall structure and diffuse infiltration of lymphocytes and plasma cells. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged after 1 week to a regional rehabilitation facility. Though the patient fares clinically well and inflammatory markers had normalized, antimicrobial treatment with doxycycline continues at 3 months follow-up due to remaining radiologic signs of inflammation.

Conclusions

Borrelia infection in the setting of acute aortic pathology is a rare entity. To our knowledge, this is the first case report to demonstrate a mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm as a rare manifestation of Lyme disease. Aortic wall biopsies and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis of the specimen were essential for accurate diagnosis. This finding may contribute to the understanding of the etiology of inflammatory aneurysmal disease and abdominal aneurysms in general.
Machine learning reduced workload for the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register: development and evaluation of the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Classifier
Authors: Shemilt Ian , Noel-Storr Anna , Thomas James , Featherstone Robin , Mavergames Chris
Published: January 2022

Background

This study developed, calibrated and evaluated a machine learning (ML) classifier designed to reduce study identification workload in maintaining the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register (CCSR), a continuously updated register of COVID-19 research studies.

Methods

A ML classifier for retrieving COVID-19 research studies (the ‘Cochrane COVID-19 Study Classifier’) was developed using a data set of title-abstract records ‘included’ in, or ‘excluded’ from, the CCSR up to 18th October 2020, manually labelled by information and data curation specialists or the Cochrane Crowd. The classifier was then calibrated using a second data set of similar records ‘included’ in, or ‘excluded’ from, the CCSR between October 19 and December 2, 2020, aiming for 99% recall. Finally, the calibrated classifier was evaluated using a third data set of similar records ‘included’ in, or ‘excluded’ from, the CCSR between the 4th and 19th of January 2021.

Results

The Cochrane COVID-19 Study Classifier was trained using 59,513 records (20,878 of which were ‘included’ in the CCSR). A classification threshold was set using 16,123 calibration records (6005 of which were ‘included’ in the CCSR) and the classifier had a precision of 0.52 in this data set at the target threshold recall >0.99. The final, calibrated COVID-19 classifier correctly retrieved 2285 (98.9%) of 2310 eligible records but missed 25 (1%), with a precision of 0.638 and a net screening workload reduction of 24.1% (1113 records correctly excluded).

Conclusions

The Cochrane COVID-19 Study Classifier reduces manual screening workload for identifying COVID-19 research studies, with a very low and acceptable risk of missing eligible studies. It is now deployed in the live study identification workflow for the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register.
Phenobarbital for the management of severe acute alcohol withdrawal (the PHENOMANAL trial): a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Filewod Niall , Hwang Stephen , Turner Christian J. , Rizvi Leena , Gray Sara , Klaiman Michelle , Buell Danielle , Ailon Johnathan , Caudarella Alexander , Ginocchio Galo F. , Santos Marlene , Sandhu Gyan , Dewhurst Norman , Sequeira Kelly , Burns Karen E. A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Benzodiazepines are considered first-line treatment for patients experiencing severe acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome (sAAWS). Although several medications have been evaluated as potential adjuvant treatments for sAAWS, barbiturates show particular promise.

Objective

In the PHENOMANAL trial, we will assess the feasibility of conducting an allocation-concealed, quadruple-blinded, randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing symptom-triggered benzodiazepine therapy with either a single dose of adjuvant intravenous (IV) phenobarbital (7.5 mg/kg of ideal body weight) or a single dose of matching IV placebo for patients with sAAWS.

Methods

We will recruit adult patients from the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, or hospital wards with a Clinical Institute of Withdrawal – Adult revised (CIWA-Ar) score of 16 or more after receipt of at least 60 mg of diazepam or equivalent within 16 h of diagnosis of sAAWS, and an anticipated need for hospitalization. We will randomize participants (n=39) in a 2:1 manner to treatment and placebo groups, respectively. The primary objective of the PHENOMANAL pilot trial will be to demonstrate our ability to recruit the desired population over the trial period. As secondary objectives, we will evaluate clinician compliance with the treatment protocols, assess crossover rates from the placebo arm to the treatment arm, and obtain preliminary estimates of treatment effect. All trial participants will be followed for 7 days or until hospital discharge.

Relevance

The PHENOMANAL trial is novel in investigating a new treatment for a common and understudied condition, repurposing an existing medication for a novel indication, and addressing an important evidence gap. Through conduct of the multidisciplinary pilot trial, we aim to advance methodology in acute care research through the use of a hybrid consent model and inform the design of a large-scale trial.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Registration NCT03586089; first registered July 13, 2018.
Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a school-based health and well-being program for adolescent girls
Authors: White Karen , Lubans David R. , Eather Narelle
Published: January 2022

Background

The primary aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a school-based health and well-being program (Health and Well-being for Girls: HWBG) on adolescent girls’ well-being, mindfulness, screen-time, and physical activity.

Method

The HWBG program was evaluated using a group randomized controlled trial (RCT) in one secondary school. A convenience sample of female students in Grade 8 (mean age 14 ± 0.5 years) was recruited for the study (n=4 classes; 89 girls). The 20-week multi-component HWBG program, guided by Self-Determination Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, was designed and delivered by a member of the research team. Randomization occurred prior to baseline assessments at the class level (n=4 classes) into dose-matched treatment conditions (i.e., two classes received the HWBG intervention and two classes received an alternate elective course as a wait-list control group). Process evaluation measures of recruitment, retention, adherence, and satisfaction were used to determine program feasibility. This study was designed to assess feasibility (primary outcome) and preliminary efficacy (secondary outcomes), rather than effectiveness. Preliminary efficacy of HWBG for improving mental and social health, screen-time, and physical activity were measured and analyzed using linear mixed-models.

Results

“The health and well-being program” targeting adolescent girls was found to be feasible for implementation as an elective course in a secondary school setting. Participants in the HWBG program reported high levels of satisfaction, the majority of lessons (45 out of 50), were implemented as planned and adherence to the planned HWBG program content was very high. Medium positive effects on mental health (d=0.45) and social health (d=0.50) were observed. Small effects were observed for physical activity, and no significant intervention effects were found for levels of recreational screen time. Participant ratings showed high levels of perceived benefit and enjoyment as indicated in the evaluation data (mean rating of 4.44 out of a possible 5.0) when asked whether the program was enjoyable.

Conclusion

The study provides preliminary support for HWBG as a potentially feasible and enjoyable program suitable for use with adolescent girls in the secondary school setting. Potential of the study for facilitating improvements in pro-social and psychological well-being is also supported.

Trial registration

ACTRN12617000157370. The trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry.
Feasibility of an MI-CBT ketogenic adherence program for older adults with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Sheffler Julia L. , Arjmandi Bahram , Quinn Jamie , Hajcak Greg , Vied Cynthia , Akhavan Neda , Naar Sylvie
Published: January 2022

Background

The National Institutes of Health Obesity-Related Behavioral Intervention Trials model for intervention development was used to establish the feasibility and proof of concept of a motivational ketogenic nutrition adherence program for older adults with mild cognitive impairment.

Methods

This was a single-arm, single-center feasibility trial. A comprehensive assessment protocol, including a clinical interview, neuropsychological testing, and genetic sequencing was used as an initial screening. Nine participants (aged 64–75) with possible amnestic mild cognitive impairment were consented for the intervention. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention neuropsychological assessments using the updated Repeatable Battery for Assessment of Neuropsychological Status. Participants tracked their macronutrient consumption using food diaries and ketone levels using urinalysis test strips daily. Mood and other psychosocial variables were collected through surveys, and qualitative exit interviews were completed.

Results

100% of participants who began the trial completed the 6-week ketogenic nutrition adherence program, including completion of the pre- and post-assessments. Eight participants achieved measurable levels of ketones during the program. The average self-rated adherence across the program was 8.7 out of 10. A Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test demonstrated significant improvement in cognitive performance from baseline (median = 88) to follow up (median = 96, Z = − 2.26, p = .024). The average difference in cognitive performance from baseline to follow-up was − 7.33 (95% CI − 12.85, − 1.82).

Conclusions

Results supported the feasibility for moving to the next phase and demonstrated proof of concept for the intervention. The next step is a randomized pilot trial to test clinical signals of effect compared to a control condition.

Trial registration

This trial was retrospectively registered with clinicaltrials.gov on July 13, 2021. The trial number is NCT04968041.
Plasma orexin A does not reflect severity of illness in the intensive care units patients with systemic inflammation
Authors: Akaishi Masahiro , Hashiba Eiji , Takekawa Daiki , Kushikata Tetsuya , Hirota Kazuyoshi
Published: January 2022

Background

Systemic inflammatory response occurs by sepsis and invasive surgery. Recent articles suggest that not only CRP but also procalcitonin, presepsin, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin may reflect the severity of systemic inflammation. In addition, as systemic inflammation could degenerate orexin neurons, plasma orexin A might also be a good biomarker to predict the severity. Thus, we have determined relation between plasma biomarker and severity of illness score in patients with systemic inflammation.

Methods

Previous database (UMIN000018427) was used to secondly determine which plasma biomarkers may predict the severity of illness in the ICU patients with systemic inflammation (n = 57, 31 non-sepsis surgical patients and 26 sepsis patients). We measured plasma levels of orexin A, CRP, procalcitonin, presepsin, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin were measured, and APACHE II score was assessed in these patients at their admission to the ICU. Data are shown as mean ± SD. Statistical analyses were done with unpaired t test. The correlation between APACHE II score and plasma biomarkers were examined using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and a least squares linear regression line.

Results

Demographic data did not differ between sepsis and non-sepsis groups. However, APACHE-II score was significantly higher in sepsis group than those in non-sepsis group (20.9 ± 6.6 vs 15.8 ± 3.2, p < 0.01). There were significant correlations between APACHE II score and plasma CRP (r = 0.532, p < 0.01), procalcitonin (r = 0.551, p < 0.01), presepsin (r = 0.510, p < 0.01), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (r = 0.466, P < 0.01) except orexin A.

Conclusion

All plasma biomarkers tested except orexin A may reflect the severity of illness in patients with systemic inflammation.
The suitability assessment of the tree species in the urban parks and urban forest in Kediri City, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Afrianto Whisnu Febry , WATI SUSANTI INDRIYA , HIDAYATULLAH TAUFIQ
Published: January 2022

Abstract. Afrianto WF, Wati SI, Hidayatullah T. 2021. The suitability assessment of the tree species in the urban parks and urban forest in Kediri City, East Java, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 13: 131-139. Kediri has several urban parks and an urban forest as green open space (GOS) which have essential roles in economical, social, aesthetical, and ecological aspects. Generally, urban trees provide ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, stormwater attenuation, energy conservation, habitat for wildlife, air, water, and noise pollutants reduction. The present study aimed to (i) determine tree diversity in five urban parks and an urban forest of Kediri City and (ii) evaluate the suitability of tree species based on three indicators (silviculture, management, and aesthetic). This study was conducted in five urban parks and one urban forest in Kediri City. The suitability assessment was carried out through a literature review. The results showed that 29 tree species belonging to 17 families were found in the study sites, with the family Fabaceae being the most dominant one with five species. The number of exotic tree species (17) was higher than that of the native ones (12). The suitability assessment results showed that 21 tree species had a high score of 39-44, and only eight urban tree species had a medium score of 36-38. The urban parks and urban forests in Kediri were managed for the conservation of germplasm, recreation, and protection. The shapes were clumped and line. This study will contribute information to be used as guidance for urban tree management and policy framework.
Review: Natural products isolated from Portulaca oleracea (purslane, Ma-Chi-Xian): Focus on oleraciamides and oleracones
Authors: BAILLY CHRISTIAN
Published: January 2022

Abstract. Bailly C. 2021. Review: Natural products isolated from Portulaca oleracea (purslane, Ma-Chi-Xian): Focus on oleraciamides and oleracones. Nusantara Bioscience 13: 202-210. The plant Portulaca oleracea L., known as purslane in English and Ma-Chi-Xian in Chinese, is largely used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of diseases and conditions, including dysentery, urinary tract dysfunctions, and post-partum bleeding. It is also an edible plant, with a high nutritional potential. Extracts of P. oleracea display antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities, associated with the presence of numerous bioactive secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, terpenoids, lignans and polysaccharides. The present review provides a specific focus on two sub-groups of natural products isolated in recent years from P. oleracea: the alkaloids oleraciamides A-to-G, and the oleracones A-to-L which are mostly flavonoids. Their structural diversity and pharmacological properties, described in recent publications and patents, have been analyzed. These two subgroups of natural products deserve additional studies to delineate their mechanism of action. They could serve as a starting point to the design of novel anti-inflammatory agents, at least for some of them. This review provides a global view of these compounds, necessary to promote further phytochemical studies and to better apprehend the traditional use of the plant and its extracts.
Associations among Eating Habits, Health Conditions, and Education Level in North Dakota Adults
Authors: Alakaam Amir , Lett Madeline , Puckett Hailey , Kite Katherine
Published: January 2022

Objective: Many socioeconomic factors can influence the consumption of a nutritious diet. To uncover factors influencing nutrition habits in North Dakota, we implemented a communitybased nutrition education program. Methods: The program consisted of 6 educational sessions at a farmer’s market in North Dakota. We collected data through a questionnaire to assess individuals’ demographic information, health conditions, fruit and vegetable intake, and nutrition knowledge (N = 290). We analyzed the data using descriptive, chi-square, and one-way ANOVA analysis. Results: Overall, 37% of participants had a 4-year college degree, 20% had a master’s degree, 18% had a high school degree, and 17% had a 2-year or vocational degree. The chi-square analysis indicated a statistically significant correlation between education level and health condition (p = .010) and average total fruit and vegetable intake (p = .020). Participants with a higher level of education had fewer chronic disease diagnoses and ate more fruits and vegetables. The one-way ANOVA indicated a statistically significant relationship between education and nutrition knowledge (p < .001). Conclusions: Individuals with higher nutrition knowledge may have healthier eating habits and better health outcomes. Future nutrition education programs are needed to improve health equity and the population’s overall eating habits.
Respuesta del primer nivel de atención de salud del Perú a la pandemia COVID-19
Authors: Villanueva-Carrasco Rosa , Domínguez Samamés Rafael , Salazar De La Cruz Miriam , Cuba-Fuentes María Sofía
Published: January 2022

Desde el primer caso reportado por el nuevo coronavirus en el Perú se han implementado distintas estrategias para mejorar los servicios de salud, con gran énfasis en la respuesta hospitalaria. En el presente artículo, hacemos un recuento de las acciones orientadas al primer nivel de atención de salud que el gobierno peruano intenta implementar. Proponemos medidas clave a cumplir como implementación de clínicas de sintomáticos en el primer nivel de atención de salud, cuidados sanitarios en domicilio, inserción de médicos de familia y uso intensivo de consultas telefónicas y otra TICs que al adoptarse e implementarse a la realidad peruana, lograrían una respuesta más efectiva ante la pandemia por COVID-19.
Un caso probable de enfermedad de Creutzfeldt-Jacob de variante esporádica con larga supervivencia en Perú
Authors: Bancalari-Benavides Ernesto , Rodriguez-Calienes Aaron , Camacho Kiara
Published: January 2022

La enfermedad de Creutzfeldt-Jacob (ECJ) es la enfermedad por priones más común con una incidencia anual de 1 caso por un millón de habitantes. La ECJ tiene un mal pronóstico y el promedio de vida es de 4-6 meses. Solo se han reportado en la literatura 11 casos de ECJ en Perú. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 66 años con el diagnóstico probable de ECJ esporádico con sobrevida de 25 meses. Identificamos que el tiempo entre el inicio de la enfermedad hasta las mioclonías y hasta el mutismo acinético, la ausencia de hallazgos imagenológicos tempranos, el compromiso tardío de corteza y ganglios basales y la implementación de tratamientos de soporte son factores que podrían explicar a la sobrevida prolongada.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome- Coronavirus 2
Authors: Sjogren Maria H.
Published: January 2022

The pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 in 2020 and still raging in 2021 is a global emergency where no country was spared from its high morbidity and mortality. Life changed in innumerable ways, from lock downs to job losses, isolation and mental health crisis. All countries suffered. If it were not for the quick development of medications and vaccines, coupled with preventive measures like facial masks, social distancing and frequent washing of hands, we will be in a worse chaos. Some countries like India and many in Latin America have been devastated and its consequences will be long felt even after the pandemic is controlled. Understanding the cause, its epidemiology and controlled measures is important. Although it took 100 years to encounter a global pandemic of this magnitude, scientists warn of almost inevitable future global pandemics. This review will explore some salient aspects of SARS-CoV-2 impact and measures to control the infection. The world’s death toll caused by SARS-CoV-2 exceeds 3 million and close to 200 million people have been infected. The available vaccines used in more than 400 million individuals, still fall short of producing herd immunity despite the high efficacy rate of most of them. There is a pressing need to immunize 80% or more. Some side effects to vaccine were reported, the majority of minor impact, although some rare ones are more serious such as thrombotic thrombocytopenia or myocarditis. Still the protection afforded from the vaccine vastly outweighs the risks and its wide use is encouraged.
Cambios en la densidad de recursos humanos en salud durante la epidemia de COVID-19 en el Perú, abril - agosto 2020
Authors: Murillo-Peña Juan Pablo , Mendoza-Arana Pedro Jesús , Rojas-Mezarina Leonardo Ronyald , Huamán-Angulo Lizardo Alfonso , Peralta Quispe Felipe , Riega-López Pedro Antonio , Chilca Alva Manuel Luis , Silva Valencia Javier , Ugarte Taboada Claudia Maria , Loayza Altamirano Javier Cesar , Pérez Lázaro Walter , Moscoso Porras Miguel , Cabana Peceros Arnold , Escobar Agreda Stefan Alexis
Published: January 2022

Objetivo. Analizar los cambios en la Densidad de Recursos Humanos en Salud(DRHS) en el Ministerio de Salud a nivel regional y provincial en el Perú; a fin de describir la respuesta del sistema de salud sobre este componente durante la epidemia de COVID-19. Métodos. Estudio descriptivo basado en el análisis de la base de datos nacional de INFORHUS del Ministerio de Salud. Para el cálculo de la DRHS, se consideró como numerador al personal de salud registrado en la base de INFORHUS y como denominador a la población adscrita al Seguro Integral de Salud – SIS. Se excluyó a personal de salud que falleció y aún estaba registrado, y a personal diagnosticado de COVID-19 por prueba rápida o molecular durante los meses considerados en el análisis. Se analizaron los cambios porcentuales de DRHS entre los meses de abril hasta agosto de 2020 a nivel regional y provincial en el Perú. Resultados. En el periodo abril-agosto la DRHS a nivel nacional se incrementó en un 5,1%. A nivel regional este incremento se logró en 15 de las 25 regiones con una variación desde 0,2% hasta 12,3%, y se visualizó una reducción brusca y sostenida del personal nombrado, juntamente con un incremento del personal con contratos temporales. En el resto de las regiones se visualizó una reducción de DRHS la cual varió entre -0,7% hasta -7,7%. Conclusiones. La DRHS en el Perú mostró un leve incremento a nivel nacional durante el primer periodo de cuarentena por la pandemia de COVID-19; sin embargo, este resultado no ha sido equitativo en las diferentes regiones y provincias a nivel nacional. Esto sugiere una limitación en el alcance de las medidas tomadas por el gobierno, y la necesidad de tomar acciones para el fortalecimiento de la situación de salud y despliegue de RHUS en los sectores más desfavorecidos.
Fístula gastroesplénica por adenocarcinoma gástrico y peritonitis difusa
Authors: Terry Castellano Luis E. , Matheus Sairitupac Jessica Tatheana
Published: January 2022

Se reporta el primer caso en Perú de una fístula gastroesplénica (FGE) secundaria a adenocarcinoma gástrico penetrante al hilio esplénico que ocasionó infarto esplénico maligno y peritonitis difusa. Se discute la racionalidad del tratamiento quirúrgico. Varón de 84 años con peritonitis difusa secundario a un adenocarcinoma gástrico Borrmann III (BIII) fístulizado al bazo y en comunicación con la cavidad peritoneal. Se hallaron en la literatura cuatro casos de FGE asociadas a cáncer gástrico. La gastrectomía con intención curativa en un solo tiempo estaría indicada para casos con buena condición general y criterios de curabilidad. La gastrectomía en un segundo tiempo se reserva para casos con mala condición general y criterios de curabilidad. Las resecciones locales o paliativas estarían indicadas para los casos con mala condición general e incurabilidad.
Supervivencia de los trabajadores de salud infectados por SARS-CoV-2 en el contexto de la vacunación contra la COVID-19 en el Perú
Authors: Escobar-Agreda Stefan , Silva-Valencia Javier , Rojas-Mezarina Leonardo , Vargas-Herrera Javier
Published: January 2022

Objetivos. Evaluar la supervivencia de los trabajadores de salud infectados por SARS-CoV-2 en el contexto del proceso de vacunación contra la COVID-19 en el Perú. Métodos. Se realizó un análisis de supervivencia a partir de datos provenientes de las bases nacionales en salud. Se incluyó datos de personas entre 18 y 59 años infectadas por SARS-CoV-2 evidenciada por prueba molecular o antigénica. Se elaboraron gráficos de Kaplan Meier para comparar la sobrevida de los trabajadores de salud y el resto de la población duranteel año 2021 y el trabajador de salud durante la primera y segunda ola de mortalidad en el Perú en el 2020 y 2021, respectivamente. Resultados. Se incluyeron datos de 998 295 personas. La edad promedio fue 41,2 años (DE 15,8) y 485 167 (48,6%) fueron mujeres. Se encontró un mayor nivel de sobrevida de los trabajadores de salud después de la vacunación con respecto a la población en general y a la población de los trabajadores de salud antes de la vacunación. Se evidenció que, al inicio de la segunda ola, el riesgo de morir de los trabajadores de salud era el doble del que tenían en la primera ola (HR=2). Después de la vacunación (en el sexto mes de la segunda ola), el riesgo de morir disminuyó hasta 87,5% menos que en la primera ola (HR=0,125). Conclusiones. Se ha evidenciado un cambio positivo en el nivel de sobrevida de los trabajadores de salud infectado por SARS-CoV-2 durante el contexto de la vacunación contra la COVID-19 en el Perú.
USO DAS TERRAS E PROCESSOS DE DESERTIFICAÇÃO NA RPGA DOS RIOS MACURURÉCURAÇÁ. BAHIA-BRASIL
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana, VALE RAQUEL MATOS CARDOSO ,   Departamento de Ciências Humanas e Filosofia, PEREZ-ALBERTI AUGUSTO ,   Universidade Santiago de Compostela; Departamento de Edafoloxîa e Química Agrícola. Facultade de Bioloxía
Published: January 2022

In this article, are analyzed the processes of desertification in the Region of Planning and Management of the Waters of the Macururé and Curaçá Rivers. The mapping of land use, through photointerpretation of images RapidEye, allowed to verify that the anthropized Caatinga, the Caatinga anthropized park and Agriculture occupy more than half of the region and show decline of vegetation resilience. These are areas of natural pastures that support extensive herds whose overgrazing generates damage and expands areas of environmental degradation. As consequence, the caatingas support capacity declines and the bare soils, exposed to erosion, reach wide extensions. In these conditions, desertification cells and core are observed.
O PROGRAMA TERRITORIAL COMO FATOR DE VIABILIDADE DE INFRAESTRUTURAS AEROPORTUÁRIAS: METODOLOGIA PARA IDENTIFICAÇÃO DE OPORTUNIDADES
Authors:   Universidade de Brasília, LISSA MARCELO TONIAZZO ,   Programa de Pós Graduação em Arquitetura e Urbanismo, SILVA LEANDRO RODRIGUES E ,   Universidade de Brasília; Programa de Pós Graduação em Arquitetura e Urbanismo, YAMASHITA YAEKO ,   Universidade de Brasília; Programa de Pós Graduação em Arquitetura e Urbanismo, ARAGÃO JOAQUIM JOSÉ GUILHERME DE ,   Universidade de Brasília; Programa de Pós Graduação em Arquitetura e Urbanismo
Published: January 2022

Concessions or public investments with delegated management were the models adopted until then to make possible investments and operations in the Brazilian airports. But regional airports usually present higher costs than direct revenues, which leads to the need to evaluate new models of delegation and partnerships, taking advantage of the direct effects and the potential growth of the region induced by air transport. The territorial engineering is based on the modernization of productive structures, innovations, R&D and training to compose territorial programs beyond the investment and management of transport infrastructures, generating sustainable growth. This paper presents a methodology to identify cases in which this instrument can be used. The results of the 164 planned airports in the Brazilian National Aviation Plan 2018-2038 made it possible to identify 14 regions that, at first, would need external subsidies, but which proved to be viable and fiscally sustainable when the enterprise is evaluated associated with the main value chain: tourism.
SOCIO-SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION ANALYSIS OF URBAN GREEN AREAS IN THE CITY OF RIO GRANDE, RS, BRAZIL
Authors:   Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul, TORALLES CHRISTIANO PICCIONI ,   Campus Rio Grande, SILVA KARINE CABRAL ,   Universidade Federal do Rio Grande
Published: January 2022

Green spaces in cities are seen as beneficial to, for example, the microclimate, human health, and ecological networks. In this sense, this study aims to evaluate the relationship between urban green areas (UGA) and the effectively urbanized area (EUA) in the city of Rio Grande, in the extreme south of Brazil. The following indicators were used: UGA per inhabitant and per 100,000 inhabitants, the percentage of UGA in the urban perimeter, and according to a radius of influence (buffers). Voronoi diagrams were also generated to verify the UGA concentration or dispersion, and the relationship with socioeconomic indicators (population density and average income). The results: 1) 59.82 Ha of UGA/100,000 inhab.; 2) 5.98 m² of UGA/inhabitant; 3) 2.45% UGA in the EUA; 4) 50.00% and 84.13% of the EUA covered by radii of influence of 300 m and 1200 m from the UGA; 5) and 67.59% of the EUA by radii of influence of 1 km of UGA > 1 Ha. These values are considered low but in line with the values found for other Brazilian cities or in other countries. Therefore, it is expected to contribute to the debate related to the theme and actions to improve the cities quality and distribution of green spaces.
Analysis of the Effects of the Central Bank’s Interest Announcements on Tourism Index Returns
Authors: GÜNAY Fatih , BAYRAKTAROĞLU Engin
Published: January 2022

This paper examines the impact of interest rate announcements by the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey (CBRT) on Borsa İstanbul tourism index returns. During the period covering 2010-2020, the effects of the CBRT's 20 decrease announcements and eight increase announcements on tourism index daily returns were examined separately using the event study method. Moreover, the BIST100 index was analysed for comparison purposes. According to the study results in which ARs were calculated with the mean adjusted return model, out of 20 announcements of decreases in the interest rate, only 3 showed statistically significant ARs on the event date. This result indicates that tourism investors’ reactions to policy rate announcements are weak and suggests the policy rate does not affect tourism investors' reactions. The findings for the BIST100 support this idea.
The Effect of Information-Communication Technologies (ICT) and Air Pollution on Health Expenditures
Authors: DEMİRTAŞ Cuma , ILIKKAN ÖZGÜR Munise
Published: January 2022

This study analyses the effects of ICT and air pollution on health expenditures of 81 Turkish provinces during 2011-2018. Models were analysed through a panel data method. The results indicated that air pollution and mobile phone subscribers do not affect health expenditure. In contrast, the number of internet subscribers and index variable (devised by the authors) have a negative effect on health expenditure. This study has a unique value and contributes to the literature. It is one of the first studies scrutinizing the impact of air pollution and ICT on health expenditures in Turkey.