bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunogenicity of COVID-eVax Delivered by Electroporation Is Moderately Impacted by Temperature and Molecular Isoforms
Authors: D’Alessio Federico , Lione Lucia , Salvatori Erika , Bucci Federica , Muzi Alessia , Roscilli Giuseppe , Compagnone Mirco , Pinto Eleonora , Battistuzzi Gianfranco , Conforti Antonella , Aurisicchio Luigi , Palombo Fabio
Published: March 2023

DNA integrity is a key issue in gene therapy and genetic vaccine approaches based on plasmid DNA. In contrast to messenger RNA that requires a controlled cold chain for efficacy, DNA molecules are considered to be more stable. In this study, we challenged this concept by characterizing the immunological response induced by a plasmid DNA vaccine delivered using electroporation. As a model, we used COVID-eVax, a plasmid DNA-based vaccine that targets the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Increased nicked DNA was produced by using either an accelerated stability protocol or a lyophilization protocol. Surprisingly, the immune response induced in vivo was only minimally affected by the percentage of open circular DNA. This result suggests that plasmid DNA vaccines, such as COVID-eVax that have recently completed a phase I clinical trial, retain their efficacy upon storage at higher temperatures, and this feature may facilitate their use in low-/middle-income countries.
Determinants of Equity in Coverage of Measles-Containing Vaccines in Wales, UK, during the Elimination Era
Authors: Perry Malorie , Cottrell Simon , Gravenor Michael B. , Griffiths Lucy
Published: March 2023

In the context of the WHO’s measles and rubella elimination targets and European Immunization Agenda 2030, this large cross-sectional study aimed to identify inequalities in measles vaccination coverage in Wales, UK. The vaccination status of individuals aged 2 to 25 years of age, alive and resident in Wales as of 31 August 2021, was ascertained through linkage of the National Community Child Health Database and primary care data. A series of predictor variables were derived from five national datasets and all analysis was carried out in the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage Databank at Swansea University. In these 648,895 individuals, coverage of the first dose of measles-containing vaccine (due at 12–13 months of age) was 97.1%, and coverage of the second dose (due at 3 years and 4 months) in 4 to 25-year-olds was 93.8%. In multivariable analysis, excluding 0.7% with known refusal, the strongest association with being unvaccinated was birth order (families with six or more children) and being born outside of the UK. Living in a deprived area, being eligible for free school meals, a lower level of maternal education, and having a recorded language other than English or Welsh were also associated with lower coverage. Some of these factors may also be associated with refusal. This knowledge can be used to target future interventions and prioritise areas for catch up in a time of limited resource.
Correlation between Babesia Species Affecting Dogs in Taiwan and the Local Distribution of the Vector Ticks
Authors: Su Bi-Ling , Liu Pin-Chen , Fang Jou-Chien , Jongejan Frans
Published: March 2023

The objective of our study was to survey Babesia infection rates by PCR and tick species on stray dogs to correlate the distribution of Babesia with the distribution of ticks infesting dogs in Taiwan. Three hundred eighty-eight blood samples and 3037 ticks were collected from 388 roaming, and free-ranging owned dogs at residential sites in Taiwan between January 2015 and December 2017. The prevalence of B. gibsoni and B. vogeli was 15.7% (61/388) and 9.5% (37/388), respectively. Most positive B. gibsoni dogs were found in the northern part of the country 56/61 (91.8%), whereas a few were found in the middle 5/61 (8.2%). Babesia vogeli infection rates were 10%, 3.6%, and 18.2% in the northern, central, and southern regions, respectively. Five species of ticks were found: Rhipicephalus sanguineus (throughout Taiwan), Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides (in the north), Haemaphysalis hystricis (in the north and middle of Taiwan), and Amblyomma testidunarium and Ixodes ovatus (both in the north). None of the dogs in the south were infected with B gibsoni, which correlated with the absence of H. hystricis, a tick recently identified as the local vector for B gibsoni. Babesia vogeli was more equally distributed, coinciding with R. sanguineus, a tick that is present throughout Taiwan. Anaemia was detected in 86.9% of infected dogs; among these dogs, approximately 19.7% showed severe anaemia (HCT < 20). These findings provide useful advice for owners regarding outdoor activities with their dogs and local veterinarians with a regional differential diagnosis of babesiosis in Taiwan.
Determining Frequency of Common Pulmonary Gross and Histopathological Findings in Feedyard Fatalities
Authors: Schmidt Paige H. , White Brad J. , Finley Abigail , Bortoluzzi Eduarda M. , Depenbusch Brandon E. , Mancke Maddie , Brown Rachel E. , Jensen Makenna , Lancaster Phillip A. , Larson Robert L.
Published: March 2023

Pulmonary disease is often associated with feedlot cattle mortality, and the most common syndromes include bronchopneumonia, acute interstitial pneumonia, and bronchopneumonia with an interstitial pneumonia. The study objective was to utilize gross necropsy and histopathology to determine the frequency of pulmonary lesions from three major syndromes and agreement between gross and histopathological diagnosis. A cross sectional, observational study was performed at six U.S. feedyards using a full systematic necropsy to assess mortalities during summer 2022. A subset of mortalities had four lung samples submitted for histopathological diagnosis. Gross necropsy was performed on 417 mortalities, 402 received a gross diagnosis and 189 had a histopathological diagnosis. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate pulmonary diagnosis frequency based on method (gross/histopathology), and generalized linear mixed models were used to evaluate agreement between histopathological and gross diagnoses. Using gross diagnosis, bronchopneumonia represented 36.6% of cases with acute interstitial pneumonia and bronchopneumonia with an interstitial pneumonia representing 10.0% and 35.8%, respectively. Results identified bronchopneumonia with an interstitial pneumonia as a frequent syndrome which has only been recently reported. Histopathological diagnosis had similar findings; bronchopneumonia represented 32.3% of cases, with acute interstitial pneumonia and bronchopneumonia with an interstitial pneumonia representing 12.2% and 36.0%, respectively. Histopathological diagnosis tended (p-VALUE = 0.06) to be associated with gross diagnosis. Pulmonary disease was common and both diagnostic modalities illustrated three primary syndromes: bronchopneumonia, acute interstitial pneumonia, and bronchopneumonia with an interstitial pneumonia with similar frequencies. Improved understanding of pulmonary pathology can be valuable for evaluating and adjusting therapeutic interventions.
The Mental Health State of Canadian Ophthalmologists during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey-Based Study and Review
Authors: Hébert Mélanie , Bouhout Soumaya , Freeman Ellen E. , Aubin Marie-Josée
Published: March 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted the practice of medicine, causing stress and uncertainty among ophthalmologists. This cross-sectional, survey-based study of Canadian Ophthalmological Society members (n = 1152) aims to report on Canadian ophthalmologists’ mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Four questionnaires were administered between December 2020 and May 2021: the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), the 7-item Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and the Impact of Event Scale—Revised (IES-R). From all of the responses, 60/85 answers were deemed complete and were included. The median age was 50–59 years and 53% were women. On PHQ-9, most respondents had no or minimal depressive symptoms (n = 38, 63%), while 12% (n = 7) had moderately severe depressive symptoms and 12% (n = 7) reported impaired daily functioning and/or thoughts of suicide or self-harm. On the GAD-7 scale, 65% (n = 39) had no significant anxiety, while 13% (n = 8) had moderate to severe anxiety. Most respondents did not have clinically significant insomnia (n = 41, 68%). Finally, 16 respondents (27%) had an IES-R score ≥24 suggesting possible post-traumatic stress disorder. No significant differences were found based on demographics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, up to 40% of respondents experienced varying degrees of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and distress from the event. In 12%, there were concerns for impaired daily functioning and/or suicidal thoughts.
Comparison of AOP, GAC, and Novel Organosilane-Based Process for the Removal of Microplastics at a Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant
Authors: Sturm Michael Toni , Myers Erika , Schober Dennis , Korzin Anika , Thege Clara , Schuhen Katrin
Published: March 2023

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been identified as important point sources of micropollutants and microplastics into the environment. Existing fourth cleaning steps are designed to remove dissolved micropollutants, however do not target dispersed solids such as microplastics. Therefore, the ability of an Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) and Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) in parallel and serial connection to remove microplastics was investigated and determined. The pilot plants were operated at the municipal WWTP Landau, Germany, a three-step biological waste treatment plant with a capacity of 80,000 population equivalents. A Nile red-based detection method was applied to quantify microplastics. Neither method showed a significant removal of microplastics. To achieve a simultaneous removal of microplastics and dissolved micropollutants, a pilot plant using organosilanes for microplastics’ removal was connected in series with the GAC. When added to the water, the organosilanes attach to the microplastics and collect them in agglomerates by chemically binding them in a water-induced sol–gel process. The pilot plant for microplastics’ removal was operated with a flow rate of 12 m3/h and a retention time of 10 min; the GAC with 2 m3/h and a retention time of 1 h. An average reduction in micropollutants by 86.2 ± 2.0% and a reduction in microplastics by 60.9 ± 27.5% was reached. Thus, there is an effective reduction in micropollutants and a significant reduction in microplastics. Further optimizations of the pilot plant are expected to result in a more stable and higher removal performance.
Les Russes d'Asie centrale : une minorité en déclin face à de multiples défis
Authors: Peyrouse Sébastien
Published: March 2023

Russians in central Asia: A declining minority faced with major challenges

Since the 1990s, the situation of the Russian minority in central Asia has been deeply affected. Left behind by the empire, it has had to cope with massive migrations toward Russia and challenges to its privileged status. Organizations for defending Russians and political authorities in the five new states differ with regard to the questions of: dual citizenship, occupational discrimination, the status of the Russian language, schooling in Russian and access to the media in Russia. However tighter economic relations between central Asia and Russia (in particular labor migrations) are creating a clear-cut separation between the question of the Russian minority and that of the Russian language in the region.
Le président de la Fédération de Russie et l'instauration d'une « verticale exécutive »
Authors: Gazier Anne
Published: March 2023

Les relations entre le Président de la Russie et les dirigeants des « sujets de la Fédération » sont régies par deux principes, difficiles à concilier, qui ont été posés par la Constitution de 1993 : l'unité du pouvoir d'État et l'autonomie des régions. Depuis l'arrivée au pouvoir de Vladimir Poutine, une politique centralisatrice tend à instaurer une « verticale executive » reliant le Président aux chefs des exécutifs régionaux. L'article examine les différents aspects de cette politique (changement du statut des dirigeants régionaux renforçant les pouvoirs du Président à leur égard, accroissement des contrôles présidentiels sur l'action régionale) en s'interrogeant sur ce qui subsiste du principe d'autonomie, pilier de tout système fédéral.
Genèse, apogée et métamorphoses du présidentialisme clientéliste en Ukraine
Authors: Lambroschini Sophie
Published: March 2023

La présidence de Viktor Iouchtchenko, produit direct de la « Révolution orange », a introduit des changements d'ordre juridique et de style dans le système politique ukrainien. La configuration politique actuelle présente pourtant moins les traits d'une rupture avec le « présidentialisme clientéliste » de Leonid Koutchma que ceux d'une continuité dans le contexte plus large de l'histoire politique postsoviétique se traduisant par la concurrence, au sein d'un exécutif bicéphale, entre le Premier ministre et le Président sur fond de rivalités de groupes oligarchiques dont la capacité d'adaptation à des réalités nouvelles est démontrée. Dans cette perspective, la « parlementarisation » du système politique ukrainien n'est le signe ni d'une normalisation démocratique ni d'un rapprochement avec un modèle européen. Bien au contraire, le pouvoir politique ukrainien, anémié par ses conflits de compétence internes, paraît de plus en plus démuni devant la resilience des logiques clientélistes.
L'ancienne RDA : un laboratoire pour la réforme de l'action publique locale ?
Authors: Lozac'h Valérie
Published: March 2023

The former German Democratic Republic, a laboratory for reforming local public action?

German unification coincided with plans for reforming local policy-making. Districts in the former GDR served as a laboratory for experimenting with these plans, which borrowed as much from corporate neomanagerial doctrines as from ideas about participatory democracy. These attempts at modernization have not met with the hoped-for success. Various political and administrative legacies have combined so as to restrict the application of reforms in localities in the former GDR.
Analysis of adverse drug reaction reporting at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital
Authors: Vo Thi Hong Phuong , Nguyen Hoai Anh Thu , Tran Quang Phuc , Nguyen Thi Thanh Hoa , Nguyen Quynh Tram
Published: March 2023

Background: In Pharmacovigilance, spontaneous reporting of adverse drug reactions is the most common method used in many countries around the world to detect and monitor adverse drug reactions. Among sources of ADR reports, reports performed at health facilities play an important role in detecting adverse drug reactions of newly introduced drugs, serious adverse reactions, and adverse drug reactions which can be detected early. Objectives: (1) To investigate the implementation of adverse drug reaction reporting activities at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital for the period 2017-2019, (2) To analyze activities of reporting adverse reactions of drugs at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital for the period of 2017-2019. Materials and methods: We performed a descriptive cross-sectional study on pharmacists who reported ADR and a total of 138 ADR reports archived at pharmacy department of the hospital. Results and Conclusions: The groups of evaluation criteria for the management organization, resources and communication activities related to the adverse drug reaction reporting were scored over 75% of the maximum. In 2017, the reporting rate compared to the whole country reached 0.62% and decreased to 0.37% in 2019. The proportion of good quality reports increased from 34.62% in 2017 to 91.49% in 2019. Almost ADR reports came from nurses (85.51%). The other beta - lactam antibacterial group was the most reported group of suspect drugs (52.17%). The most reported pairs of drugs - adverse reactions were Ceftriaxon - rash (13.04%), Ceftriaxon - pruritus (7.97%) and Ceftriaxon - vomiting (7.97%).
Key words: Pharmacovigilance, adverse drug reactions, medical facility
Results of therapeutic endoscopy in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital
Authors: Truong Xuan Long , Le Minh Tan , Vinh Khanh , Nguyen Thi Huyen Thuong , Phan Trung Nam , Tran Van Huy
Published: March 2023

Background: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a frequent emergency in Viet Nam, most of them are non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding. Despite of many improvements in diagnosis and management, the mortality rate of upper gastrointestinal bleeding is still significant high. In recent years, many endoscopic hemostasis techniques improved the prognosis of this emergency. This study was aimed at: 1. Describing characteristics and the endoscopic lesions in patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding. 2. Assessing efficacy of some endoscopic hemostasis techniques in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Subject and methods: Interventional study concludes 161 non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding patients, 179 therapeutic upper endoscopy to get hemostasis in Gastroenterology - Endoscopy Center, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from 11/2017 to 8/2020. Result: Mean age of the patients: 55.0 ± 17.3, minimum: 12, maximum: 94. Male/female ratio: 2.6. Positions of lesions: 10.6% in esophagus, 41.6% in stomach, 47.8% in duodenum. Causes of bleeding: peptic ulcer diseases (82.0%), esophago-gastric junction tear (9.9%), angiodysplasia (5.6%), and others (2.5%). Successful rate of initiating endoscopic hemostasis: 100%, permanent endoscopic hemostasis: 98.8%; recurrent bleeding rate: 4.3%, endoscopic
hemostasis failure: 1.2%; operation rate: 1.2%. Conclusion: Endoscopic hemostasis techniques showed good safety and efficacy, failure and operation rate are very low.
Key words: non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding, endoscopic hemostasis
Treatment of knee osteoarthritis of folk medicinal practitioners using traditional medicine in Thua Thien Hue province
Authors: Tran Nhat Minh , Nguyen Quang Tam , Nguyen Thi Huyen , Dang Thi Mai Hoa , Doan Van Minh
Published: March 2023

Background: Osteoarthritis of the knee is one of the most common degenerative diseases causing disability in the elderly. Objectives: To survey on the process of knowledge transmission of practitioners, treatment methods and herb using in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Materials and methods: In-depth interview research and information collection were carried out on folk medicinal practitioners with more than 5 years of experience in knee osteoarthritis treatment using traditional medicine at clinics in Thua Thien Hue province. Results: Process of knowledge transmission of practitioners: 92% learned from books, 76%
learned from teachers, 44% learned from family and 96% attended continuing training. Treatment methods: 100% prescription medicine, 60% massage, 32% herbal medicine, 32% acupuncture, 28% topical medicine, 16% implantation. Conclusion: folk medicinal practitioners self-studied through books, teachers, traditional medicinal families, as well as updated from continuous training classes. Treatment of knee osteoarthritis hadmany methods; instead of single treatment, a combination of methods was more often used
Key words: Osteoarthritis, folk medicinal practitioners, dept-interview, traditional medicine
The prevalence of hypertension and the association with eating habits in the elderly in Hue city
Authors: Mai Thi My Duyen , Hoang Thi Bach Yen , Nguyen Thi Thanh Nhan , Bui Thi Phuong Anh , Vo Van Minh Quan , Hoang Anh Tien
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Hypertension is a common disease, which has experienced an increasing trend worldwide and Vietnam is no exception, especially in the elderly. The association of eating habits with hypertension may be proposed. Thus, detecting some unhealthy eating habits can help prevent and control the risk of hypertension in the community. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of hypertension, explore eating habits and the association between eating habits and hypertension in the elderly in Hue city. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2022 to May 2022 on 428 people aged 60 and older who were living in 6 communes in Hue city by face-to-face interviews. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 68.0%, of which the rate of new detection was 32.3%. The prevalence of high salt intake was 32.0% and alcohol consumption was 15.9%. We observed a high prevalence of low consumptions of fruits and vegetables with 43.7% and 59.6%, respectively. Additionally, 39.2% of participants used repeated heating of cooking oils. We observed a significant
association of low fruit consumption with hypertension. Furthermore, other eating habits were found to have an association with hypertension including try limiting salt in the diet and use a lot of seasoning/dipping sauce. Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension in the elderly was high and a low consumption of fruits was found in relation to an increased risk of hypertension. It is necessary to screen for early detection of hypertension for the elderly and communicate to increase awareness about the impact of eating habits on hypertension.
Key words: Hypertension, elderly, eating habits, high salt intake, Hue.
Formulation of Vitex negundo L. (Verbenaceae) leaf used in Traditional Medicine Hospital of Thua Thien Hue and evaluation of the product quality
Authors: Le Thi Minh Thao , Le Thi Minh Nguyet , Nguyen Thien Phuoc , Nguyen Viet Phuong Nguyen , Doan Thi Nhat Le , Nguyen Thi Tan
Published: March 2023

Background: Vitex negundo L. leaves are a medicinal herb with many therapeutic effects, especially bone and joint diseases. At Traditional Medicine Hospital of Thua Thien Hue, method of using Vitex negundo L. leaves for patients who have joint diseases was shown to good treatment results. Besides, preparation of cream are convenient to use and take advantage of a precious and available medicinal herb of Vietnam. Objectives: To determine the formula, preparation process of products from the leaves of Vitex negundo L., determining the total flavonoid content of the product obtained and initial investigation of anti-inflammatory effects of prepared products. Methods: Building oriented formulas and investigating excipients. Development of a preparation process by emulsification method. Evaluation of the quality of prepared products by the
Center for Drug - Cosmetic - Food Testing in Thua Thien Hue. Quantification of total flavonoids according to the method of Chang (2002). Investigation of anti-inflammatory effects based on carrageenan inflammation model in experimental rats. Results: Cream formula with the main ingredient was condensed glue of Vitex negundo L. 5%; Olive oil 10%; Glycerin 4%; Propylene glycol 15%; Ceteareth 20,4%; Cremophor RH40 7%; Nipagin 0.18%; Nipazol 0.02%; Menthol 0.05%. The cream product was smooth, homogeneous, dark brown in color, lightly scented, and met the basic standards. Total flavonoid content condensed glue of Vitex negundo L. was 13.18 ± 0.207, cream of Vitex negundo L. was 12.96 ± 0.163 (p > 0.05). The product was preliminarily evaluated to have the anti-inflamation effect in mice. Conclusions: Building a complete cream formula that met quality standards, the total flavonoid content was not lost much after the preparation process
Key words: Vitex negundo L., the total flavonoid content, quality standards.
A Leaking-Proof Theranostic Nanoplatform for Tumor-Targeted and Dual-Modality Imaging-Guided Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Jin Duo , Zhu Yang , Liu Manman , Yu Wenxin , Yu Jiaji , Zheng Xinwei , Wang Lulu , Wu Yun , Wei Kaiju , Cheng Junjie , Liu Yangzhong
Published: March 2023

Objective
: A protein-based leaking-proof theranostic nanoplatform for dual-modality imaging-guided tumor photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been designed.

Impact Statement
: A site-specific conjugation of chlorin e6 (Ce6) to ferrimagnetic ferritin (MFtn-Ce6) has been constructed to address the challenge of unexpected leakage that often occurs during small-molecule drug delivery.

Introduction
: PDT is one of the most promising approaches for tumor treatment, while a delivery system is typically required for hydrophobic photosensitizers. However, the nonspecific distribution and leakage of photosensitizers could lead to insufficient drug accumulation in tumor sites.

Methods
: An engineered ferritin was generated for site-specific conjugation of Ce6 to obtain a leaking-proof delivery system, and a ferrimagnetic core was biomineralized in the cavity of ferritin, resulting in a fluorescent ferrimagnetic ferritin nanoplatform (MFtn-Ce6). The distribution and tumor targeting of MFtn-Ce6 can be detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and fluorescence imaging (FLI).

Results
: MFtn-Ce6 showed effective dual-modality MRI and FLI. A prolonged in vivo circulation and increased tumor accumulation and retention of photosensitizer was observed. The time-dependent distribution of MFtn-Ce6 can be precisely tracked in real time to find the optimal time window for PDT treatment. The colocalization of ferritin and the iron oxide core confirms the high stability of the nanoplatform in vivo. The results showed that mice treated with MFtn-Ce6 exhibited marked tumor-suppressive activity after laser irradiation.

Conclusion
: The ferritin-based leaking-proof nanoplatform can be used for the efficient delivery of the photosensitizer to achieve an enhanced therapeutic effect. This method established a general approach for the dual-modality imaging-guided tumor delivery of PDT agents.
Dynamic Changes in Habitat Quality and the Driving Mechanism in the Luoxiao Mountains Area from 1995 to 2020
Authors: Guo Ke , Niu Xiang , Wang Bing , Xu Tingyu , Ma Xiang
Published: March 2023

The strengthening of regional habitat quality is crucial to protect biodiversity and fully utilize ecosystem services such as those provided by forestry and aquatic ecosystems. However, the long-term patterns of change in the habitat quality of the Luoxiao Mountains area, which is both an important ecological barrier area and a concentrated poverty-stricken area, and the driving mechanism remain unclear. In this study, the InVEST model was used to assess the habitat quality of the Luoxiao Mountains area in 1995 to 2020, and the spatial autocorrelation model was used to explore the spatial and temporal variation and distribution characteristics of habitat quality. Further, ordinary least squares (OLS) model, geographically weighted regression (GWR) model, and random forest (RF) algorithm were combined with multidimensional datasets to explore the underlying mechanisms driving changes in habitat quality. According to the results, the habitat quality indices of the Luoxiao Mountains area in 1995, 2005, 2015, and 2020 were 0.822, 0.818, 0.817, and 0.813, respectively, with an overall decreasing trend. The RF model was the best fit for habitat quality, better than the GWR and OLS models. Physical geographic factors such as slope and precipitation, as well as socioeconomic factors such as gross domestic product, were key drivers of habitat quality in the Luoxiao Mountains. Precise implementation of ecological protection and restoration measures, improvements in the efficiency of spatial utilization, and exploration of the value of ecological products are key factors in maintaining a balance between habitat quality and economic growth into the future.
Spatial Risk Assessment and Source Identification of Heavy Metals in Riverine Sediments of Lake Chaohu Basin, China
Authors: Cai Yongjiu , Wei Jiahao , Zhang Suyu , Wang Xiaolong , Zhang Zhiming , Gao Junfeng
Published: March 2023

In recent decades, the rivers in Lake Chaohu Basin have been subjected to intensive anthropogenic disturbance. However, previous studies have mainly focused on Lake Chaohu, and the inflowing and outflowing rivers have not been well examined. To characterize the pollution status of heavy metals in the entire Lake Chaohu Basin, 8 heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb, Cr, Cd, As, Hg, and Ni) in riverine surface sediments were measured at 131 sampling sites in 7 subbasins. Spatial patterns and pollution characteristics were evaluated based on the potential ecological risk, geoaccumulation, and pollution load indexes. The results showed that Cr and Hg were the 2 main heavy metal pollutants in the surface sediments, with mean contents exceeding background values by a factor of 4.12 and 2.64, respectively. The Nanfei River (NF), which flows through Hefei city (a metropolis of the capital of Anhui Province), is characterized by large amounts of domestic and industrial waste discharged into the water body due to human activities; this waste caused serious heavy metal pollution, and NF substantially contributed to heavy metal pollution inputs to Lake Chaohu. Several subbasins in the southern part of Lake Chaohu Basin exhibited high concentrations of Cu in surface sediments, mainly from mining and agriculture. This study identified the main contamination areas, revealed the possible sources of each heavy metal, and can serve as a reference for the remediation and management of Lake Chaohu Basin to ensure the water safety of Lake Chaohu.
Research of Lunar Water-Ice and Exploration for China’s Future Lunar Water-Ice Exploration
Authors: Jia Yingzhuo , Zhang Zhanlan , Qin Lang , Ma Tao , Lv Bohan , Fu Zhongliang , Xue Changbin , Zou Yongliao
Published: March 2023

Since the 1990s, the existence of water-ice in the permanent shadow areas of the lunar polar regions and the problem of water in the early lunar period have become the hot spot of international lunar exploration. This paper analyzes the research progress and existing problems of lunar water-ice detection in recent years. Based on the analysis of expected foreign lunar water-ice exploration missions, the major scientific problems of lunar water-ice are analyzed. From different exploration methods, this paper tentatively puts forward the scientific tasks, payload configuration, functional requirements, and possible scientific outputs of water-ice in China's future lunar exploration projects, which can provide reference for future lunar exploration missions.
Tecnología y desempeño: las desigualdades de los docentes de educación básica durante las clases a distancia
Authors: Huaire Inacio Edson Jorge , Arteta Huerta Hernán Alfonso , Gamboa Vásquez Santiago , Llanos Miranda Kelva Nathally
Published: March 2023

El estudio tuvo como objetivo, describir algunos factores influyentes en la práctica docentes durante la educación a distancia y analizar la asociación entre manejo de tecnologías y desempeño docente. Participaron 3767 docentes de educación básica de 15 regiones del Perú, quienes completaron una ficha sociodemográfica y dos cuestionarios diseñados para el estudio, que evalúan cada variable respectivamente. Los resultados evidencian que los docentes tienen un regular manejo de la tecnología y regular desempeño profesional. El género no es un factor diferencial en el uso de herramientas tecnológicas ni en rendimiento, pero si, el grado académico y la zona geográfica en el que trabajan. Herramientas como WhatsApp, mensajes de texto, correo electrónico y las redes sociales, así como plataformas, zoom y Google meet, fueron los más usados. También señalaron que, a falta de conectividad y recursos tecnológicos, se utilizaron materiales tradicionales. Finalmente, se evidencia asociación muy débil entre las variables lo que llevaría a explicar que, el bajo rendimiento del docente tiene que ver muy poco con el manejo o uso de los recursos tecnológicos y estaría más relacionado a otros factores no analizados en este estudio.
Estudiantes con discapacidad en las escuelas rurales. Un retrato del escenario brasileño
Authors: Sá Michele Aparecida de , Ribeiro Eduardo Adão , Vicente Welder Rodrigo
Published: March 2023

Las políticas de Educación Especial desde una perspectiva inclusiva tienen el desafío de garantizar las condiciones de acceso, permanencia, participación y aprendizaje de los estudiantes a quien se destinan. Tal problema encuentra mayores dificultades cuando se trata de localidades rurales, ya sea por el despojo histórico de derechos que han enfrentado los pueblos campesinos, o incluso por las disputas contemporáneas entre fuerzas que aún defienden un modelo educativo urbano-céntrico. Así, este artículo tiene como objetivo presentar un panorama de las matrículas en Educación Especial de las poblaciones rurales de Brasil de 2008 a 2020. La investigación tuvo un enfoque cuantitativo, con datos extraídos de microdatos del censo escolar de Educación Básica referentes a los años de 2008, 2014 y 2020. Se concluye que la articulación entre Educación Especial y Educación Rural se ha convertido en un lineamiento de política pública reciente y, en las escuelas rurales, el número de alumnos con discapacidad aumentó significativamente durante el período estudiado. Sin embargo, el 71,9% de las escuelas rurales no cuentan con accesibilidad, solo el 5% cuentan con Salas de Recursos y solo el 27,4% de los estudiantes reciben asistencia educativa especializada (AEE).
Cultura y evasión tributaria en productores mineros en proceso de formalización de una comunidad campesina en el altiplano peruano
Authors: Alarcon Carlos , Mamani Marco , Cahuapaza Elizabeth , Lupaca Yasmany
Published: March 2023

The tax culture of citizens is a key factor in tax evasion, a difficult problem to control in Peru. The objective of this article was to diagnose the relationship between the tax culture and tax evasion of mining producers in the process of formalizing a peasant community in the Puno region - Peru. It corresponds to a non-experimental study with a correlational design and a quantitative approach. The survey technique was used with two validated instruments (tax culture questionnaire with 17 items and tax evasion with 8 items). The results indicate that the majority of mining producers have a medium tax culture (55.8%) and a medium level of tax evasion (53.1%). Using Kendall's Tau b correlation coefficient, it was determined that the correlation is indirect (τ=-.506) and significant (sig= .000) between tax culture and tax evasion. Indirect and significant correlations were also determined between the dimensions of tax culture (tax knowledge, timely and voluntary compliance, behavior and attitudes towards the norm) and tax evasion. It is concluded that, in the case of the mining producers of this peasant community, the greater the tax culture, the less likely it is to avoid taxes in their formalization process.
Atendimento de pacientes com necessidades especiais em Centros de Especialidades Odontológicas brasileiros
Authors: Pires Monique Marques , Pires Matheus Marques , Rosa Saulo Vinícius da , Costa Eugênio Esteves , Caldarelli Pablo Guilherme , Brancher João Armando , Gabardo Marilisa Carneiro Leão
Published: March 2023

Objetivo: Fazer uma revisão integrativa a respeito do atendimento de pacientes com necessidades especiais (PNE) em Centros de Especialidades Odontológicas (CEO) no Brasil.
Métodos: Para as buscas nas bases eletrônicas PubMed, BBO e LILACS, e Google Scholar, foram utilizados em português, espanhol e inglês, os descritores e termos livres: “pessoas com deficiência”, “pessoa com necessidade especial”, “pessoa com incapacidade”, odontologia, “atenção secundária à saúde”, “atenção secundária”, “centro de especialidades odontológicas”, CEO, “disabled persons”, handicapped, “people with disabilities”, dentistry, “secondary care”, “dental specialty center” ,“secondary care centers”, “personas con discapacidad”, “atención secundaria de salud” e “centro de especialidad dental”. Não foi feita restrição quanto ao idioma, mas o período consultado foi de 2016 a 2021. Incialmente foram excluídas as duplicatas, em seguida os textos cujos títulos e resumos não estivessem de acordo com os critéios de inclusão. Uma vez eleitos os textos a serem incluídos após leitura na íntegra, foi feita a extração dos dados de interesse: autor (ano), tipo de estudo, caracterização da amostra, local, objetivo, resultados principais e conclusão. A análise da qualidade metodológica e do risco de viés dos estudos foi feita por meio da ferramenta Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies do Effective Public Health Practice Project.
Resultados: De 383 estudos, cinco foram incluídos. As barreiras mencionadas que dificultam o acesso dos PNE aos CEO se referiram a questões socioeconômicas e demográficas, localização dos CEO, escassez de recursos financeiros, limitações para acessibilidade e qualificaçao profissional deficitária para a prestação dos atendimentos. A qualidade metodológica foi considerada fraca em todos os estudos, o que indica alto risco de viés.
Conclusão: Mesmo com a evolução gradativa do atendimento dos PNE nos CEO, ainda há aprimoramentos necessários, tanto em relação à qualificação dos profissionais para que tenham conhecimento e manejo para realizar os atendimentos seguindo os protocolos necessários, quanto à melhoria do acesso para esses pacientes.
Tradução, adaptação cultural e validação do Instrumento de Autoavaliação em Diabetes
Authors: Neves Sirleia Rosana , Dias Moreira Alexandra , Bandeira Fernanda Fortini , Horta Tatiane Géa , Pagano Adriana Silvina , Reis Janice Sepúlveda , Soares Aleida Nazareth
Published: March 2023

Objetivo: realizar a tradução, adaptação cultural e validação do instrumento “Instrumento de Autoavaliação em Diabetes” para aplicação no contexto brasileiro. Métodos: estudo metodológico realizado com 132 profissionais, entre os anos de 2016 e 2018, em seis etapas: 1- Tradução inicial; 2- Síntese da tradução; 3- Retrotradução (back-translation); 4- Avaliação pelo comitê de juízes; 5- Adequação cultural (pré-teste); 6- Reprodutibilidade. Houve participação de profissionais de equipes multiprofissionais envolvidas no tratamento do diabetes, por meio da plataforma e-surv. Resultados: entre os participantes, predominaram o sexo feminino (73,5%), profissionais com especialização (pós-graduação Lato Sensu) (51,5%) e com experiência na assistência a pessoas com diabetes (84,4%). O Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC) foi satisfatório (média de 0,850). O instrumento apresentou boa consistência interna (Alfa de Cronbach=0,878). A análise de confiabilidade do instrumento, realizada pelo cálculo do coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (CCI), indicou concordância adequada em todas as medidas, 0,878 (IC 95%: 0,864 – 0,891), com Kappa Ponderado médio de 0,714 e índices acima de 0,60 em 85% os itens, mostrando boa concordância teste e reteste. Conclusão: a versão traduzida e adaptada culturalmente do Instrumento de Autoavaliação em Diabetes apresentou boa confiabilidade, aceitabilidade e estabilidade temporal satisfatórias conforme os parâmetros internacionais, podendo ser utilizada para autoavaliação em diabetes pelos profissionais da saúde.
Novel Approach to Synchronize National Knowledge Network (NKN) of National Informatics Centre (NIC) Network with IST Over IoT Framework
Authors:   Principal Scientist, Division of Time and Frequency Standards (NPL), National Physical Laboratory, India, Thorat Pranalee , Bhardwaj Trilok ,   Principal Scientist, Division of Time and Frequency Standards (NPL), National Physical Laboratory, India, Kandpal Preeti ,   Technical Assistant, Time and Frequency Group of Indian Standard Time division of CSIR-NPL, National Physical Laboratory, India, Agarwal Dr. Ravinder ,   Professor and Head, Department of Electrical and Instrumentation Engineering, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala, India, Aswal Dr. D. K. ,   Director, Health Safety & Environment Group, Mumbai (Maharashtra), India
Published: March 2023

The successful commissioning of the proposed methodology to synchronize the NIC-NKN in Delhi and Hyderabad with Indian Standard Time (IST) maintained by NPLI over NTP protocol over IoT framework is a significant accomplishment in the field of time synchronization. The proposed methodology utilizes an IoT framework along with a unique Stratum 1 NTP architecture that is supported by a pre-calibrated Rubidium frequency source. This architecture enables the establishment of stratum 1 synchronization at the two locations, thereby ensuring that the time is accurately synchronized with the NPLI maintained Indian Standard Time (IST). The successful implementation of this methodology has several benefits. Firstly, it ensures that the time at the NIC-NKN in Delhi and Hyderabad is accurate and synchronized with the Indian Standard Time (IST) maintained by NPLI. This is crucial for various applications where precise timing is critical, such as in telecommunications, financial transactions, and scientific research. Secondly, this methodology can be extended to other locations and organizations that require accurate time synchronization. With the increasing use of IoT devices, the need for accurate time synchronization is only going to increase. This methodology provides a reliable and scalable solution that can be easily implemented in various organizations and locations. Thirdly, the use of pre-calibrated Rubidium frequency sources ensures that the time synchronization is accurate and stable over a long period. This is important as small inaccuracies in time synchronization can accumulate over time and result in significant errors. The use of pre-calibrated Rubidium frequency sources ensures that the time synchronization is accurate and stable over a long period, thereby avoiding such errors. In conclusion, the successful commissioning of the proposed methodology to synchronize the NIC-NKN in Delhi and Hyderabad with Indian Standard Time (IST) maintained by NPLI over NTP protocol over IoT framework is a significant accomplishment. This methodology provides a reliable and scalable solution that can be easily implemented in various organizations and locations to ensure accurate time synchronization.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Therapy for Failed Back Surgery Syndrome in a Patient with Mild Dementia Case Report
Authors: Lopez Daniel , Desyatnikov, DO Oleg , Anijar Leon , Reyes Jessica , Fisher Kristy
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND: Failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) continues to become more prevalent as surgical interventions for patients with chronic low back pain increase. Neuromodulation with spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is proven to benefit FBSS. A relative contraindication to SCS therapy is dementia. CASE REPORT: An 81-year-old Hispanic woman with a medical history of dementia and persistent chronic low back pain despite L2-S1 lumbar fusion presented to an outpatient pain clinic with severe low back pain. The patient underwent a SCS trial and followed up with the clinic showing improvement of pain and ability to sit for longer periods of time and sleep longer. After 4 days, the patient underwent implantation of a recharge-free SCS using standard procedure and reported 80% to 90% improvement of pain, decreased dosing of opioid medication, and decrease in blood pressure. CONCLUSION: We successfully implanted a SCS in a patient with dementia and chronic low back pain from FBSS. PRESENTED AS A POSTER: American Society for Pain and Neuroscience Conference 2021; July 23 – 25, 2021 KEY WORDS: Case report, dementia, spinal cord stimulator
EVALUATION AND PROGNOSTICATION OF TRICHOSCOPIC FINDINGS IN PATIENTS WITH ALOPECIA AREATA (AA) BEFORE AND AFTER APPLICATION OF DIPHENYLCYCLOPROPENONE (DPCP).
Authors: Poluri Manvitha , Feroz Ahamed Shaik , Haritha Thiruveedhula , Haritha Samanthula , Swetha Chowdary Atluri
Published: March 2023

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic inammatory disease of hair follicles, causing non-scarring alopecia. Trichoscopy is a noninvasive and inexpensive diagnostic procedure used increasingly in dermatology and hence can be used to evaluate ndings in alopecia areata. Aims And Objectives: Ÿ To evaluate the clinical and trichoscopic ndings of patients with AA. Ÿ To identify prognostic factors in diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP) response rate. Materials And Methods: Sixteen patients with AA were included, and baseline hair loss was calculated based on the severity of alopecia tool (SALT) score. Trichoscopic ndings of AA were evaluated at baseline before DPCP and at the end of 12 th week after DPCP application. Results: Men (M: F=4.3:1) with a mean age of 33.6 years were commonly affected with a mean duration of 9.9 months in this study. Most of the patients had localized type with three patches over the scalp and a SALT subclass of S1. The mean regrowth was 82.56 %. Trichoscopic ndings like black dots, depigmented vellus hairs, broken hairs, depigmented terminal hair, and exclamation mark hairs decreased whereas pigmented vellus hairs increased after the 12th week. Insufcient sample size Black dots, depigment Limitations: Conclusion: ed vellus hairs, broken hairs, and exclamatory mark hairs are considered to be bad prognostic factors and were found to be reduced with DPCP in our study whereas the signicant increase of pigmented vellus hairs which is a good prognostic factor was noted after DPCP when compared to baseline. This study concludes that trichoscopy is an invaluable tool in diagnosing AA and assessing the treatment response to DPCP.
PREVALENCE OF INSOMNIA AMONG HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS
Authors: Lloyds Aswathy , Kumar Maneksh , Linu Swornila Delinda
Published: March 2023

Hypertension is a chronic disease quite common in the day to day scenario and is ranked as the rst most important risk factor driving the most
death and disability combined in Kerala (2016) (3). Hypertension and insomnia are found to coexist (1) (2). The prevalence of insomnia among
hypertensive patients of South Kerala has not been properly studied, this study aims to investigate the same. This study in addition to this tries to
nd out the association between insomnia and antihypertensive drugs, as previous researches have suggested insomnia as a possible side effect of
antihypertensive medication (5). So proper diagnostic measures should be adapted, with special surveillance of insomnia prone members of
society (based on epidemiological evidences) so as to prevent and treat insomnia at early stage itself and also prevent its progression to
hypertension.
A STUDY ON SERUM URIC ACID LEVELS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES PATIENTS AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
Authors: Pranav Jonnalagadda , Rajesh Kumar M , Mahesh V
Published: March 2023

Backgrond And Objective: This study was done to note the levels of serum uric acid in type 2 diabetes patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction,
to correlate the blood uric acid levels with Killip Classication, to study the role of serum uric acid as a marker of short-term mortality in coronary
heart disease, to study the relation between serum uric acid and cardiac and CPK-MB in acute myocardial infarction, and to study the relation
between serum uric acid and Systemic Hypertension & Diabetes Mellitus in coronary heart disease. This study was done at Methodology:
Narayana Medical College Hospital. This is a Descriptive analytical study. It was done for 1 year. Study will be conducted on 70 cases of type 2
diabetes mellitus patients. In the present study serum uric acid positive Results: ly correlated with duration of diabetes and cardiovascular risk
factors like obesity (high BMI, abnormal waist hip ratio), hypertension, dyslipidemia and the results were statistically signicant. Conclusion:
Serum uric acid levels were signicantly higher in diabetic population.Serum uric acid levels in diabetic patients with CAD were signicantly
higher. Serum uric acid above 6 mg/dl in diabetic population is a marker or risk factor for CAD