bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Candidate biomarkers from the integration of methylation and gene expression in discordant autistic sibling pairs
Authors: Domenici Enrico , Perini Samuel , Michele Filosi
Published: November 2022

While the genetics of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) has been intensively studied, resulting in the identification of over 100 putative risk genes, the epigenetics of ASD has received less attention, and results have been inconsistent across studies. We aimed to investigate the contribution of DNA methylation (DNAm) to the risk of ASD and identify candidate biomarkers arising from the interaction of epigenetic mechanisms with genotype, gene expression, and cellular proportions. We performed DNAm differential analysis using whole blood samples from 75 discordant sibling pairs of the Italian Autism Network collection and estimated their cellular composition. We studied the correlation between DNAm and gene expression accounting for the potential effects of different genotypes on DNAm. We showed that the proportion of NK cells was significantly reduced in ASD siblings suggesting an imbalance in their immune system. We identified differentially methylated regions (DMRs) involved in neurogenesis and synaptic organization. Among candidate loci for ASD, we detected a DMR mapping to CLEC11A (neighboring SHANK1) where DNAm and gene expression were significantly and negatively correlated, independently from genotype effects. As reported in previous studies, we confirmed the involvement of immune functions in the pathophysiology of ASD. Notwithstanding the complexity of the disorder, suitable biomarkers such as CLEC11A and its neighbor SHANK1 can be discovered using integrative analyses even with peripheral tissues.
The Neonatal Withdrawal Assessment Tool (NWAT): Pilot inter-rater reliability and content validity
Authors: Betkas Gonca , Soderborg Taylor , Slater Cheryl , Agarwal Joel , Racioppi Michelle , Hogan Trystan , Werler Martha , Wachman Elisha
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVE: There is no validated tool to assess withdrawal in preterm infants in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) being weaned from pharmacological sedation.
STUDY DESIGN: The Neonatal Withdrawal Assessment Tool (NWAT) was developed to address this gap in clinical practice. In this pilot study, the NWAT was assessed for inter-rater reliability (IRR) and content validity.
RESULT: Fifty-one NICU providers scored two standardized simulated cases, then 20 paired provider assessments were completed on 5 preterm infants. The overall IRR was 95.6% on the simulated cases, and 98.8% on the 5 pilot infants. A provider survey assessed for content validity; more than 85% of provider participants strongly agreed/agreed that the NWAT adequately measures withdrawal in critically ill infants.
CONCLUSION: The NWAT demonstrated high IRR and content validity for assessment of withdrawal in preterm infants. Further studies in a larger more diverse patient population are needed before wider adoption into clinical practice.
Increased copy number of 23S ribosomal RNA gene with point mutation in MRSA associated with linezolid resistance in a patient treated with long-term linezolid
Authors: Suzuki Katsunori , Saito Mitsumasa , Hanaki Hideaki
Published: November 2022

Background
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is one of the most difficult infections we have to treat. Linezolid is one of the effective treatment options for refractory MRSA infections. There are cases where we are forced to use long-term linezolid treatment for refractory MRSA infections.
Objective
To discuss the evolution of Linezolid resistance factors in clinical isolates of MRSA.
Methods
We investigated 16 MRSA isolated from a patient treated with linezolid for a long period of 75 days. We performed antibiotic susceptibility test, 23S rRNA genes sequencing analysis, Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis.
Results
MRSA isolates were susceptible to linezolid before the start of treatment, but became less susceptible by prolonged treatment. The 23S rRNA sequencing analysis of linezolid-resistant strains that appeared 17 days after the start of treatment with linezolid revealed that all resistant MRSA had the G2576T substitution (Escherichia coli 23S rRNA gene number). The number of copies of this mutation increased with the use of linezolid.
Conclusion
Long-term use of linezolid in a patient or reuse of linezolid in a patient who has been previously treated with linezolid can lead to the emerging of linezolid-resistant MRSA in the host.
Pathological study of sternal osteomyelitis after median thoracotomy – A prospective cohort study
Authors: Bota Olimpiu , Pablik Jessica , Taqatqeh Feras , Mülhausen Maxime , Matschke Klaus , Dragu Adrian , Rasche Stefan , Bienger Kevin
Published: November 2022

Purpose
Osteomyelitis of the sternum may arise either as a primary condition or secondary to median thoracotomy after cardiac surgery, with the latter being decidedly more frequent. Deep sternal wound infections appear as a complication of median thoracotomy in 0.2 to 4.4% of cases and may encompass the infection of the sternal bone. To date there are no exhaustive histopathological studies of the sternal osteomyelitis.
Methods
Our work group developed a surgical technique to remove the complete infected sternal bone in deep sternal wound infections. We therefore prospectively examined the en bloc resected sternal specimens. Seven standard histological sections were made from the two hemisternums.
Results
Forty-seven sternums could be investigated. The average age of the patients in the cohort was 67 (45–81) years and there were 10 females and 37 males. Two methods were developed to examine the histological findings, with one model examining dividing the results in inflammatory and non-inflammatory, while the second method using a score from 0 to 5 to describe more precisely the intensity of the bone inflammation. The results showed the presence of inflammation in 76.6–93.6% of the specimens, depending on the section. The left manubrial sections were more prone to inflammation, especially when the left mammary artery was harvested (LIMA). No further risk factors proved to have a statistical significance.
Conclusion
Our study proved that the deep sternal wound infection may cause a ubiquitous inflammation of the sternal bone, which justifies the complete sternectomy. The harvest of the left mammary artery may worsen the extent and intensity of infection.
Synthesis of biogenic silver nanoparticles (bAgNPs) using leaf extract of Mirabilis jalapa and evaluation of anti-vibriocidal, anti-oxidant properties and cytotoxicity
Authors: Pangi Vijaya Nirmala , Marukurti Abhinash , Reddy Alavala Matta , Medapalli Silpa Rani
Published: November 2022

Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease and luminescent vibriosis are two major bacterial diseases of penaeid shrimp which are caused by gram negative pathogenic bacteria Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) and Vibrio harveyi (Vh) respectively. These diseases cause massive mortality and huge economic loss worldwide in shrimp aquaculture. Extensive and inappropriate usage of antibiotics against these pathogens resulted in antibiotic resistant strains. Drug repurposing appears to be an appropriate solution to eliminate the antibiotic resistance in pathogens. In the present study, biogenic silver nanoparticles (bAgNPs) are synthesized by reducing AgNO3 using aqueous extract of Mirabilis jalapa (MJ) leaves. The anti-oxidant, cytotoxic and anti-vibriocidal activity of bAgNPs against Vp and Vh are evaluated. The formation of silver nanoparticles was confirmed by the appearance of dark brown colored solution and with a maximum absorption peak at 434nm. The characterization of bAgNPs using FESEM, TEM, XRD, FTIR, and DLS has confirmed that the nanoparticles are crystalline, spherical in shape with an approximate diameter of 50nm, and have capping agents. The diameter of microbial growth inhibition zones for Vp and Vh are 26mm and 23mm respectively. Further, the MIC values for Vp and Vh are 31.25µg/mL and 93.75µg/mL respectively. The DPPH and FRAP assays showed substantial anti-oxidant activity with IC50 values of 67.39µg/mL and 5.509µg/mL respectively. MTT assay to check cytotoxicity effect of bAgNPs on Vero cells resulted very less toxicity at maximum concentration tested with an IC50 value of 293.5µg/mL. Therefore, the biogenic silver nanoparticles synthesized from leaves of MJ showed effective anti-vibriocidal and anti-oxidant properties with negligible cytotoxic effect.
Longitudinal trajectories of sleep quality in correlation with child maltreatment: a cohort of early adolescents
Authors: Cao Leilei , Wang Shaojie , Li Yuan , Li Yonghan , Yuan Mengyuan , Chang Junjie , Wang Gengfu , Su Puyu
Published: November 2022

Child maltreatment may lead to sleep disturbance during the critical period of child development. Our study examined the effect of child maltreatment on trajectories of sleep quality among early adolescents. A total of 1611 participants (mean ± standard deviation: 12.5 ± 0.5 years age at baseline) were enrolled from a middle school in southeastern China. 60.5% of the study participants were males. We collected information on child maltreatment and sleep quality using a self-reporting questionnaire. A group-based trajectory model was used to study trajectories of sleep quality. The four trajectories of sleep quality identified were as follows: low sleep score group (25.0%), moderate-low sleep score group (51.0%), moderate-increasing sleep score (17.0%), and high-decreasing sleep score (7.0%) group. After adjusting for covariates, the results revealed that emotional and physical abuse could increase the risk of developing new-onset sleep disturbances in early adolescents. Emotional abuse [incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 1.90, 95% CI: 1.19–3.03] and physical abuse (IRR = 2.03, 95% CI:1.11–3.70) significantly increased the risk of categorizing in the high-decreasing sleep score group. Additionally, the participants who experienced cumulative child maltreatment had a significant increased risk of developing new-onset sleep disturbances and were categorized in the high-decreasing sleep score group. Our results highlight the importance of preventing and reducing child maltreatment to improve sleep quality in early adolescence.
Identification and Validation of Key m7G-Related Genes and Cuproptosis-Related Genes Related to Immunity in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) by Comprehensive Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Yuemeng Zhao , Su Yang , Liu Liying , Yu Zheng , Yang Han , Zheng Xiaoyan , Hao Jianheng , Yang Jie , Ji Laixi
Published: November 2022

Background
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disease that is one of the most common disease of reproductive age and is one of the important factors leading to infertility in young women, but the potential molecular mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we identified previously unrecognized m7G-related and cuproptosis-related genes that are significantly correlated with PCOS via bioinformatics.
Materials and methods
Three transcriptome profiles of granulosa cells of PCOS sample and normal samples were obtained from online databases. Comprehensive bioinformatic analyses, such as differential expression analysis, functional and pathway enrichment analysis, immune infiltration analysis, were utilized.
Results
Three PCOS datasets (GSE34526, GSE80432, and GSE137684) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were integrated and the background correction and normalization were performed by R language. The corrected gene cuproptosis-related genes and m7G-related genes respectively to obtain intersection genes. There were 12 intersection genes relate to cuproptosis-related genes and 21 intersection genes relate to m7G-related genes in comparison between PCOS group and normal group. After the correction gene crossed with the immune infiltrating gene, it crossed with 12 intersection genes relate to cuproptosis-related genes and 21 intersection genes relate to m7G-related genes respectively. Ultimately, it was identified that 8 genes related to cuproptosis are related to immune infiltration (CIGs), among which DLAT was the most significant (P = 0.049); 5 m7G related genes are associated with immune infiltration (MIGs), among which NUDT16 was the most significant (P = 0.0246). There were significant differences in clinicopathological characteristics between the PCOS group and the normal group by ROC curve analysis.
Conclusions
This study addresses the information gap in PCOS research about the interaction between immunology, m7G, and copper metabolism. According to the PCOS prediction model, the genes m7G and those associated to copper metabolism are crucial in the onset and progression of the condition. This study has further explored the microenvironment of ovarian granulosa cell of PCOS development and immune factor related genes. This work will support future research.
Correlation between immune-related adverse events and long-terms outcome in pembrolizumab-treated patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhou Jiangmin , Zhang Zhiwei , Wu Biao
Published: November 2022

Background
Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy has improved the prognosis of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), it has also resulted in the unique immune-related adverse events (irAE). The relationship between irAE and treatment outcomes in ICIs-treated advanced HCC patients remains unknown.
Methods
From March 2019 to February 2021, a total of 190 unresectable HCC (BCLC C) patients receiving Pembrolizumab treatment were retrospectively reviewed. Overall survival (OS) was the primary endpoint. objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR) and time to progression (TTP) were secondary evaluation indexes. We assessed demographics, irAE and outcomes by retrospective review.
Results
One hundred and forty-three male and 47 female were included in the study. The ORR and DCR were 12.1% (23/190) and 52.1% (99/190) respectively. The median OS was 376 days (95% CI 340 -411 days) and the median TTP was 98 days (95% CI 75 -124 days). The overall incidence of treatment-related adverse events was 72.6% (138/190) and 10.0% of them were severe irAEs (grade ≥ 3). Child-Pugh B class, PVTT, extrahepatic metastasis, and hypothyroidism were the independent risk factors of survival. Patients with hypothyroidism were observed a longer OS than those without irAE (517 days [95% CI 423-562] vs. 431 days, [95% CI 412-485], P=0.011) and a longer TTP (125 [95% CI 89-154] vs. 87 days [95% CI 61-98], P=0.004).
Conclusion
Unresectable HCC patients experienced hypothyroidism indicated a bettertherapeutic effect.Hypothyroidism, an immune-related adverse event may be used as a clinical evaluation parameter of HCC response to ICIs.
Association between Admission Serum Albumin and 12-weeks Mortality in AIDS/HIV Late Diagnosis Patients in Hospital: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Rui , Shi Yixian , Wang Jinxiu , Zhao Fang , Huang Jin , Wu Lingting , Han Lifen
Published: November 2022

Background:
Many patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are still undiagnosed or diagnosed late, which leads to serious consequences and burdens. Low serum albumin levels are significantly correlated with disease prognosis. This study investigated the association between serum albumin concentration and 12-week mortality of HIV/AIDS with late diagnosis in mainland China.
Methods:
In this single-center retrospective cohort study, 1,079 inpatients with late HIV/AIDS diagnosis between January 2018 and December 2021 were included. The strata of serum albumin levels were categorized into tertiles. Disease progression was estimated using the 12-week mortality. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to evaluate the serum albumin concentration with disease progression. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to analyze the effect of different serum albumin levels on mortality.
Results:
During the 12-week follow-up, 77 patients (7.1%) died. Serum albumin concentration was significantly correlated with late HIV/AIDS diagnosis progression. In Cox proportional hazards regression models, the mortality risk decreased by 8% with the increase in every 1g/L serum albumin after adjustment (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.92, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.88–0.97). Compared with that of the low serum albumin group (< 28 g/L), the middle group (28–33 g/L) mortality risk decreased by 70% (HR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.16–0.60), and that of the high group (≥ 34 g/L) decreased by 45% (HR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.27–1.15) after adjustment.
Conclusions: Hospitalized patients with late HIV/AIDS diagnosis and low serum albumin concentrations in mainland China had a relatively high short-term mortality rate. Further research is needed to characterize the role of serum albumin in the timely prevention of 12-week mortality in patients with a late diagnosis.
Effects of different levels of spent engine oil on soil physicochemical properties using different texturally contrasting soils.
Authors: Chukwu Esther Chidinma , Azuka Chukwuebuka Vincent , Okorie Benedict Odinaka
Published: November 2022

Three texturally contrasting soils: Sandy loam (SL), Loamy sand (LS) and Sandy clay loam (SCL) were potted 4 kg each with a polythene bag and polluted with 10% w/w (122ml/kg), 20% w/w (245ml/kg) and 0% w/w (0ml/kg) of spent engine oil. The soil was thoroughly mixed with spent engine oil and allowed to stay for three weeks to allow for proper absorption of the engine oil. Thereafter, air-dried crushed and sieved poultry manure was applied to the soil in each polythene bag at a rate of 40 t/ha. The spent engine oil-soil-organic manure mixture was watered to field capacity 3 times per week for two weeks after which the seeds of sunflower was sown. Soil samples were collected and analyzed at the end of the study which lasted for 12 weeks. Spent engine oil affects soil physicochemical properties as the bulk density, aggregate stability, state of aggregation, mean weigh diameter, phosphorus, Nitrogen, organic matter and pH both in water and KCl increases with increase in pollution rates while the cation exchange capacity, hydraulic conductivity, total porosity and microporosity decreases with increase in pollution rate. The physicochemical properties varies across the different soil types but loamy sand soil recorded a favourable parameters that will enable plant growth compared to other soil types.
Excess risk in infant mortality among populations living in flood prone areas in Bangladesh: A cluster-matched cohort study over three decades, 1988-2017
Authors: Rerolle Francois , Arnold Benjamin , Benmarhnia Tarik
Published: November 2022

The Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river basin, running through Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and northern India, is home to more than 618 million people. Annual monsoons bring extensive flooding to the basin, with floods predicted to be more frequent and extreme due to climate change. Yet, evidence regarding the long-term impacts of floods on children’s health is lacking. In this analysis, we used high-resolution maps of recent large floods in Bangladesh to identify flood prone areas over the country. We then used propensity score techniques to identify, among 58,945 mothers interviewed in six DHS population-based surveys throughout Bangladesh, matched cohorts of exposed and unexposed mothers and leverage data on 150,081 births to estimate that living in flood prone areas was associated with an excess risk in infant mortality of 5.9 [2.8;8.9] additional deaths per 1000 births compared to living in non-flood prone areas over the 30-year period between 1988 and 2017. Finally, drawing on national-scale, high-resolution estimates of flood risk and population distribution, we estimated an excess of 170,136 [80,742;256,645] infant deaths over the past 30 years were attributable to living in flood-prone areas in Bangladesh, with marked heterogeneity in attributable burden by subdistrict and heterogeneity in excess risk over time, with a risk difference of 9.2 [2.9;15.5], 1.5 [-2.6;5.7] and 8.9 [3.7;14.2] per 1000 births for the 1988–1997; 1998–2007 and 2008–2017 decades respectively. Our approach demonstrates the importance of measuring longer-term health impacts from floods and provides a generalizable example for how to study climate-related exposures and long-term health effects.
Cost Estimates of Postnatal Care in Public Primary Care Facilities in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Authors:   Centre of Health Economics Research, Institute for Health Systems Research, National Institutes of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Aminuddin Farhana , Bahari Mohd Shahri ,   Centre of Health Economics Research, Institute for Health Systems Research, National Institutes of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Mohd Nor Sham Kunusagaran Mohd Shaiful Jefri ,   Centre of Health Economics Research, Institute for Health Systems Research, National Institutes of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Zaimi Nur Amalina ,   Centre of Health Economics Research, Institute for Health Systems Research, National Institutes of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Shahari Mohd Ridzwan ,   Medical Development Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Complex E, Federal Government Administrative Centre, Putrajaya, Malaysia, Mohd Hassan Nor Zam Azihan ,   Centre of Health Economics Research, Institute for Health Systems Research, National Institutes of Health Malaysia, Setia Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: November 2022

Background: Postnatal care (PNC) in Malaysia is believed to have played a role in reducing maternal and child mortality. A pilot study was thereby conducted to estimate the cost of PNC in public primary care facilities in Negeri Sembilan from the perspective of healthcare providers. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design that involved six public primary care facilities in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. The PNC-related costs data were collected between May and July 2017, utilising cost data for the year 2016 and involving 287 eligible mothers. The PNC costs were calculated using mixed top-down and activity-based costing (ABC) approaches. Results: The mean cost of PNC per patient was RM165.65 (median, RM167.12). Personnel cost was the main cost driver for PNC, which accounted for the most significant proportion of the total cost at 94.2%. Education level, type of health facilities and postnatal visits were positively associated with the total PNC cost. Conclusion: This study highlighted the average cost of PNC in the public primary care facilities in Negeri Sembilan. The cost of PNC was revealed to be primarily driven by personnel cost. The findings of this pilot study could add to the evidence base of PNC and serve as a vital reference for improving future estimates to better allocate scarce resources.
A Review of Spatial Analysis Application in Childhood Malnutrition Studies
Authors:   Department of Nutrition Sciences, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Pahang, Malaysia, Shamsuddin Aida Soraya , Mohd Abu Bakar Wan Azdie ,   Department of Nutrition Sciences, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Pahang, Malaysia, Syed Ismail Sharifah Norkhadijah ,   Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Selangor, Malaysia, Jaafar Nurul Hazirah ,   Department of Nutrition Sciences, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Pahang, Malaysia, Mohd Yassin Wardah ,   Department of Nutrition Sciences, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Pahang, Malaysia, Norhizat Maisarah ,   Department of Nutrition Sciences, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Pahang, Malaysia
Published: November 2022

Approximately 230 million children under 5 years old of age suffer from malnutrition and over half of the children below 5 years old deaths are due to malnutrition nowadays. To gain a better understanding of this problem, the application of spatial analysis has risen exponentially in recent years. In this review, the present state of information on the use of spatial analysis in childhood malnutrition studies was evaluated using four databases of digital scientific journals: ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed and CINAHL. We chose 2,278 articles from the search results and a total of 27 articles met our criteria for review. The following information was extracted from each article: objective of study, study area, types of malnutrition, subject, data sources, computer software packages, spatial analysis and factors associated with childhood malnutrition. A total of 10 spatial analysis methods were reported in the reviewed articles and the Bayesian geoadditive regression model was the most common method applied in childhood malnutrition studies. This review highlights the importance of the application of spatial analysis in determining the geographic distribution of malnutrition cases, hotspot areas and risk factors correlated with childhood malnutrition. It also provides implications for strategic initiatives to eradicate all forms of malnutrition.
Cognitive Impairment and Neuropsychiatry Manifestation Following Mild and Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury at 3 Months and 6 Months
Authors:   Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia, Othman Aizzat , Idris Zamzuri ,   Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Rosman Azmin Kass ,   Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia, Abdullah Jafri Malin ,   Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia,   Brain and Behaviour Cluster, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Ghani Abdul Rahman Izaini ,   Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Zakaria Ahmad Zabidin ,   Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: November 2022

Background: Cognitive impairment (CI) and neuropsychiatry manifestation (NM) are known complications among patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the clinical correlation between mild and moderate TBI with the above have not been extensively studied. Methods: The patients (n = 54) were divided into mild and moderate TBI. Both groups were assessed at 3 months and 6 months post-trauma for the same measures. Diagnosis of CI was done using the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) questionnaire while NM screening was performed using the 12-items General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) followed by MINI International Neuropsychiatry Interview (MINI). Results: We found five patients (19.2%) with mild TBI had CI and five patients (19.2%) had NM at 3 months. Only one patient (3.8%) persistently has CI at 6 months while the rest recovered. As for moderate TBI, 11 patients (39.3%) had CI and seven patients (25%) had NM at 3 months but none had persistent CI or NM at 6 months. Age (P < 0.05) and blood pressure were significant risks (P < 0.05) for CI and NM at 3 months. Conclusion: This study highlighted the importance of screening following mild and moderate TBI at 3 months and 6 months. Early recognition facilitates effective rehabilitation programmes planning hence improve prognosis in the future.
Aging is Associated with Prolonged Hospitalisation Stay in Pyogenic Liver Abscess—A 1:1 Propensity Score Matched Study in Elderly Versus Non-Elderly Patients
Authors:   Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Chan Kai Siang , Junnarkar Sameer P ,   Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Low Jee Keem ,   Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Huey Cheong Wei Terence ,   Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Shelat Vishal G ,   Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore,   Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
Published: November 2022

Background: Mortality of pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) is high ranging 10%–40%. Old age predicts outcomes in many diseases but there is paucity of data on PLA outcomes. We aim to compare the morbidity and mortality between elderly and non-elderly in PLA. Methods: This is a retrospective study from 2007–2011 comparing elderly (≥ 65 years old) and non-elderly (< 65 years old) with PLA. A 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was performed. Baseline clinical profile and outcomes were compared. Results: There were 213 patients (elderly patients = 90 [42.3%], non-elderly patients = 123 [57.7%]). Overall median age is 62 (interquartile range [IQR] = 53–74) years old. PSM resulted in 102 patients (51 per arm). Length of hospitalisation stay (LOS) was significantly longer in elderly patients in both unmatched (16 [IQR = 10–24.5] versus 11 [IQR = 8–19] days; P < 0.001) and matched cohorts (17 [IQR = 13–27] versus 11 [IQR = 7–19] days; P = 0.001). In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in elderly patients in the unmatched cohort (elderly patients = 21.1%, non- elderly patients = 7.3%; P = 0.003) but was insignificant following PSM (elderly patients = 15.7%, non-elderly patients = 9.8%; P = 0.219). Duration of antibiotic therapy and need for percutaneous drainage (PD) were comparable before and after PSM. Conclusion: Age ≥ 65 years old is associated with longer LOS. In-hospital mortality though higher in elderly patients, was not statistically significant.
Faktor Adopsi E-Marketing dan Pengaruhnya Terhadap Kinerja Pemasaran UKM Kuliner Kota Bogor
Authors: Priyanto Hery , Najib Mukhamad , Septiani Stevia
Published: November 2022

The SMEs business is growing rapidly in Bogor City, especially culinary cluster SMEs. Tight competition in the industrial era 4.0 made the culinary cluster SMEs in Bogor City begin to implement a new marketing strategy via internet called e-marketing in order to achieve business growth. The purpose of this study are identify the type of e-marketing most commonly used by culinary cluster SMEs in Bogor City, analyze factors that influence e-marketing adoption by culinary cluster SMES in Bogor City, and analyze the effect of e-marketing adoption on marketing performance SMES of culinary cluster in Bogor City. The method used non-probability sampling with purposive sampling technique, the sample consist of 100 culinary cluster SMEs in Bogor City. The data obtained were processed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Partial Least Square u approach and using the Smart-PLS 3.0 program. The results of this study indicated social media marketing is the type of e-marketing that is most widely used by culinary cluster SMEs in Bogor City. Relative advantage, top management support, employee capability, competitive environment, and customer pressure were factors that positively and significantly influence the decision to adopt  e-marketing of Bogor City culinary cluster SMEs. E-marketing adoption had positive and significant effect on marketing performance of culinary cluster SMEs in Bogor City.
7099 SAYILI KANUN İLE TTK M. 585 HÜKMÜNDE YAPILAN DEĞİŞİKLİĞİN ORTAKLARIN KÂR PAYI HAKKINA VE ALACAKLILARIN KORUNMASINA ETKİSİ
Authors: DEMİR YEŞİLBAĞ Aybüke
Published: November 2022

6102 sayılı Türk Ticaret Kanunu’nda bir sermaye şirketi olarak düzenlenen limited şirketlerde şirketin temel amacı, kazanç elde etmek ve bu kazancı ortakları ile paylaşmaktadır. Nitekim limited şirket ortaklarının kâr payı hakkı da şirketin bu amacı ile uyumlu olup, ortakların mali hakları içinde önemli bir yere sahiptir. Öte yandan ortakların sahip olduğu bu hakkın kullanılması, kanun koyucu tarafından şirket malvarlığının ve alacaklıların korunması sebebiyle belirli şartlara bağlanmıştır. Ancak 7099 sayılı Kanun ile limited şirketlerin kuruluşunu düzenleyen TTK m.585 hükmünde değişiklik yapılarak, limited şirketin kuruluşunda taahhüt edilen nakdi sermaye paylarının en az yüzde yirmi beşinin tescilden önce ödenmesi koşulunun kaldırılması ile yalnızca nakdi sermaye ile kurulan bir limited şirketin kuruluşundan itibaren yirmi dört aylık süre boyunca sermayesiz bir şekilde ticari faaliyet sürdürebilmesi mümkün kılınmıştır. Bu durum hem ortakların kâr payı hakkını hem de alacaklıların korunmasını olumsuz yönde etkilemiştir. Bu çalışmada limited şirketlerde 7099 sayılı Kanun ile yapılan değişikliğin ortakların kâr payı hakkına ve alacaklıların korunmasına etkisi incelenmiştir.
Métodos e Práticas Integrativas em P&D: Contribuições para a Saúde, Segurança e Qualidade de Vida (SSQV) de Eletricistas de Linha Viva
Authors: Traldi de Lima Flavia , Bezerra Gemma Sandra Francisca , Shoiti Misuta Milton , Bento da Silva Samuel , Pereira Brittes José Luiz
Published: November 2022

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar métodos e práticas integrativas desenvolvidas em um projeto de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento (P&D) que visa à melhoria da saúde, segurança e qualidade de vida no trabalho (SSQV), por meio de soluções em ferramentas para Eletricistas de Linha Viva (ELV). Para isso, o projeto baseia-se em estudos teóricos e empíricos em Ergonomia, Biomecânica e Cibernética aplicados à tarefa de Poda de Vegetação. Os resultados apresentam os métodos e práticas articulados no projeto e suas constatações preliminares. Entende-se que as inovações proporcionadas pela P&D rompem com métodos e práticas tradicionais ao propor a integração entre Ergonomia, Biomecânica e Cibernética e seus usos por meio de softwares e plataformas de motion capture system e de simulação 3D de forma original no setor elétrico. Para além disso, os resultados preliminares direcionam para o potencial industrial, científico e tecnológico do projeto que possa culminar em melhoria na saúde, segurança e qualidade de vida no trabalho (SSQV).
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and its Derivatives in Poultry Feed
Authors: Alagawany Mahmoud , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E. , Saeed Muhammad , Elnesr Shaaban S. , Farag Mayada R.
Published: November 2022

Production of safe and healthy poultry diets of high profitability is the
central aim of poultry men. This safety is achieved by using natural products as growth
stimulants. Natural feed additives such as medicinal products derived from herbs and
spices are mainly used in the poultry feed industry as appetite and enzyme secretion
stimulants. The use of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and its derivatives has lately
received much greater attention as an alternative to traditional antibiotics. The clove
exhibited strong antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-septic and anti-inflammatory properties
and appetite and digestion stimulants. The clove and its derivatives contain bioactive
components, including eugenol, eugenyl acetate, ᵦ-caryophyllene, salicylic acid, ferulic
acid, caffeic acid, ellagic acid, kaempferol, methyl amyl ketone, humulene, gallotannic
acid, and crategolic acid that have beneficial effects. Eugenol is the main bioactive
component present in the clove. The potential advantages of utilizing clove extracts in
poultry diets include improved growth performance, egg production and feed
conversion ratio, enhanced digestion, and down-regulated disease incidence. From the
available literature, clove and its essential oil is one of the beneficial plant extracts to
increase growth performance in poultry by improving the intestinal microbiota
population. Clove extract contains various molecules (principally eugenol) that have
self-biological activities in poultry physiology and metabolism. This chapter includes
information on clove and its derivatives in poultry nutrition.
Phytogenic Substances: A Promising Approach Towards Sustainable Aquaculture Industry
Authors: Shehata Abdelrazeq M. , Abdel-Moneim Abdel-Moneim E. , Gewida Ahmed G. A. , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E. , Alagawany Mahmoud , Naiel Mohammed A. E.
Published: November 2022

The aquaculture industry has shown rapid growth over the last three
decades, especially with improving the farming systems. However, the rapid expansion
and intensification practices in the aquaculture sector have been marred by increased
stress levels and disease outbreaks, and subsequently, high fish mortality. Excessive
use of veterinary drugs and antibiotics in aquaculture poses a great threat to human and
aquatic animals' health, as well as to the biosystem. Furthermore, exposure to various
pollutants such as industrial effluents and agricultural pesticides may cause devastating
toxicological aspects of fish and adversely affect their health and growth. Besides, with
a growing world population, there is a growing interest in intensifying aquaculture
production to meet the global demand for nutritional security needs. Uncontrolled
intensification of aquaculture production makes aquatic animals both vulnerable to, and
potential sources of a wide range of hazards include pathogen transmission, disease
outbreak, immunosuppression, impaired growth performance, malnutrition, foodborne
illness, and high mortality. Plant-derived compounds are generally recognized as safe
for fish, humans, and the environment and possess great potential as functional
ingredients to be applied in aquaculture for several purposes. Phytogenic additives
comprise a wide variety of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds with
multiple biological functions. The use of phytogenic compounds can open a promising
approach towards enhancing the health status of aquatic animals. However, further in-vivo trials are necessary under favorable conditions with controlled amounts of identified bioactive compounds along with toxicity testing for fish safety towards a realistic
evaluation of the tested substance efficacy.
The Role of Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs) in Aquaculture Farming
Authors: Naiel Mohammed A. E. , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E. , Patra Amlan Kumar
Published: November 2022

 Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are the vital constituents that stimulate the
innate immune defense system against pathogens and perform several biological
activities, which provide the first defensive line against infectious diseases. Owing to
their unique structure, they can be utilized as a therapeutic strategy for infectious
diseases in fishes. Several kinds of AMPs are reported in fishes with broad-spectrum
antimicrobial properties. Besides, the bacterial cells cannot develop resistance strains
against these cationic compounds with low molecular weight. Thus, AMPs may be
considered an alternative to antibiotics to prevent or control infectious diseases in
aquaculture. It is essential to provide sufficient knowledge about the mode of action of
AMPs against fish pathogenic agents and their future applications. 
New developments in enzymatic biodiesel
Authors:   Novozymes, Hansen Rasmus , Nielsen Per ,   Novozymes AS
Published: November 2022

Biodiesel production using enzymatic catalyzed transesterification is well
established in industrial operation many places around the world. The enzymatic process
was launched for processing of waste oils in 2014 as the enzyme catalyst was well suited
to handle the variability in oil quality and content of free fatty acids. The process is
still being improved to reduce processing costs and can now be considered cost efficient
to use also for more expensive oil qualities. In this presentation we will discuss the
latest developments to provide new lipases as well as process technology to improve the
processing cost. We will present data showing results with improved lipase and how this
will impact the process efficiency by faster reaction rates and more complete
transesterification of glycerides.
Requirements and Solutions for the Pretreatment of Â HVO Feedstocks
Authors:   Desmet Ballestra
            Group, de Greyt Wim
Published: November 2022

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oils (HVO) and Hydoprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA)
are premium quality biofuels that are produced via hydrotreatment of renewable (waste)
feedstocks from vegetable and animal origin.Â  HVO/HEFA production is increasing rapidly
worldwide and this is supported by several growth drivers. HVO/HEFA has a better
functionality compared to classical biodiesel based on fatty acid methyl esters (FAME)
Â and it is fully compatible with mineral diesel. HVO/HEFA fractions can also be used as
sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). All major (European) airlines have recently announced
that they will start using increasing volumes of SAF on voluntary basis in anticipation
of a future compulsory SAF proportion. Initially, HVO was mainly produced from
food-grade oils (e.g. palm oil, soybean oil). However for sustainability but also
economical & political reasons, producers are increasingly looking for alternative
(lower quality â€“ non food) feedstocks such as UCO, waste animal fats, by-products from
edible/technical oil refining, distillation pitches and even non-glyceride feedstocks.

Independent of the applied technology, all HVO feedstocks need to be pre-treated
before they can enter the hydrotreatment process. Specific pre-treated feedstock
specifications depend on the HVO technology provider. In general, the pre-treatment is
necessary to remove impurities such as P and metals but also nitrogen and chlorine
containing components in order to increase the HVO catalyst life time and to avoid
corrosion problems in the plant.
Pre-treatment of â€˜good qualityâ€™ feedstocks
(vegetable oils, used cooking oils, some animal fats) is pretty straightforward and can
be accomplished by a series of processes that are already known from the edible oil
refining processes. Proper pre-treatment of lower quality feedstocks is much more
challengingÂ  and requires a more complex, multi-stage process that consists of a series
of dedicated unit operations. HVO/HEFA producers are very interested in such efficient
pre-treatment processes as their availability and industrial applicability will finally
determine if/to which extend a given low quality feedstock can be used which will
directly impact the economical viability of their HVO plant.
Stability of omega-3 fatty acids in different lipid forms analyzed by SPME-GC-MS,
NMR and loss of antioxidants
Authors:   University of
            Turku, Linderborg Kaisa , Damerau Annelie ,   University of
            Turku, Ahonen Eija
Published: November 2022

The dietary intake of marine foods is globally inadequate, and thus supplements
with long-chain omega-3 fatty acids are widely used. Both the source and processing
choices affect the lipid class (most typically triacylglycerols (TAGs), ethyl esters
(EEs), or phospholipids (PLs)) in which docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic
acid (EPA) are present, and thus consumed.Here we present investigation of the effect of
lipid type on oxidation by the analysis of oxidation products of commercial supplements
including EPA and DHA in different lipid forms, as well as results of an oxidation trial
of pure DHA-containing TAGs and EEs in the presence and absence of alpha-tocopherol. We
also present the applicability of SPME-GC-MS and NMR methods as well as analysis of the
loss of antioxidants as alternative methods to peroxide (PV) and para-anisidine values
(PAV). PAV typically has challenges with aroma compounds present and the reliability of
PV is decreased by different formation and decomposition rates of hydroperoxides under
different conditionsIncreased lipid oxidation was detected in 24% of the studied omega-3
supplements, which were in either TAG or EE form. 1H NMR was found to be a potential
rapid method for lipid class determination and was applicable in detecting products of
oxidation through selective pulse experiments. Analysis of volatile secondary oxidation
products with SPME-GC-MS may be a future alternative to PAV analysis of especially
flavored products when standardized. 2,4-Heptadienal, 1-penten-3-ol, and 2-hexenal
showed the highest potential to be used as indicator compounds for lipid oxidation in
products high in EPA and DHA content. Oxidative stability, oxidation pattern, and
Î±-tocopherol response of DHA were influenced by the lipid structure (TAG/EE). DHA in EE
form was found to be more stable than DHA in TAG form in the presence of Î±-tocopherol,
but the opposite was observed without the antioxidant.
Development and characterization of a novel, edible oleocolloid made of rice bran
wax oleogel and sodium alginate-kappa-carrageenan hydrogel
Authors:   Iowa State
            University, Nutter Julia , Acevedo Nuria ,   Griffith
            Foods, Shi Xiaolei ,   Iowa State
            University
Published: November 2022

Even though tropical oils are extensively used in the food industry for their
physicochemical characteristics; there are environmental concerns regarding their
production. Therefore, suitable alternatives to solid fats are a challenge. This work
aims to develop and characterize plant-based oleocolloids with the potential to mimic
solid fats. Oleocolloids (OC) were prepared by combining an oleogel (OG) composed of 9
wt% rice bran wax (RBW), monoglycerides (MG, 0-2 wt%), and soybean oil with a hydrogel
(HG) formulated with 1 wt% sodium alginate and 0.5 wt% kappa-carrageenan in water. Two
OG:HG ratios; 7:3 and 8:2 were prepared and analyzed. Homogeneous and self-standing
formulations were selected and characterized in their rheological properties by
amplitude sweep tests. The microstructure was assessed using confocal scanning laser
microscopy (CSLM) and the solid fat content (SFC) profile through pNMR. Micrographs
showed that all samples exhibited HG-in-OG structure since HG droplets were dispersed in
the OG phase, and their size decreased upon MG addition, accordingly with its
emulsifying capacity. Overall, the elastic modulus (Gâ€™) and yield stress (Ïƒ*) values
of 8:2OC were higher than those of 7:3OC. In 8:2OC, Gâ€™ and Ïƒ* were enhanced with the
increase in MG concentration, suggesting that MG participates in the structuring
mechanism of the OC, modifies the microstructure, and imparts superior mechanical
strength to this matrix. The SFC remained between 6.5 and 8.5% for all OC at
temperatures between 10 and 60Â°C and then it sharply decreased as the temperature
approached the melting point (âˆ¼70Â°C).
Significance of the
work:

Oleogel/hydrogel colloidal mixtures have the potential to act as
healthy and sustainable alternatives to conventional solid fats; however limited
research has been focused on the food applicability of these matrices. This work
demonstrated that the novel plant-based oleocolloids developed hold promise to replace
solid fats in high-fat foods while enhancing their nutritional profile.