bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUATION OF THE NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND RESULTS OF PATIENTS FOLLOWED IN THE PALLIATIVE CARE CENTER
Authors: Yılmaz Çakmak Nuray , Yalçıntaş Emine Büşra , Kahveci Kadriye
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to examine the nutritional status and results of the patients followed in the palliative care center.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: 250 consecutive patients who were hospitalized in the palliative care center were included in this study. The patients were grouped according to their nutritional status during hospitalization and discharge.
RESULTS: The mean age of the patients subjected to this study is 73±19.22 years. Out of these patients, 125 are female. The average daily calorie requirement of the patients was calculated as 1463.71±21.55 kcal/day, while the maximum tolerated calorie intake was determined to be 1030.54 ±320.54 kcal/day in our patient (P =0.039). No significant change was detected between the calculated calories and the calories consumed by diabetic individuals (P = 0.083). When the nutritional patterns were examined, it was determined that 51.60 % of the patients were orally fed at the time of admission to the palliative care center, the rate of patients fed with a Percutan gastrostomy (PEG)/Percutan jejunostomy (PEJ)/nasogastric tube was 32.05%, and 13.21% of the patients fed total parenteral nutrition (TPN). 67.06% of the patients were discharged with oral feeding, 30.53% with PEG/PEJ/nasogastric tube and 4 (2.39%) with long-term TPN feeding methods. When the patients were divided into percentages according to their calorie consumption, we found that the hospitalization day was significantly shorter in the group consuming 0-25 percentile calories (P = 0.021) but had a significantly higher rate of mortality (%71.42) (P=0.018). In the group with 50-75 percentile calorie intake, mortality was observed significantly at the lowest rate during hospitalization, with 14 (13.59%) patients. (P=0.003). Infections (28.57%) were significantly higher in the 0-25 group (P = 0.051).
CONCLUSIONS: At palliative care centers, besides end-of-life management, all needs of patients should be identified. Instead of making strict calorie calculations, it is necessary to develop new nutritional goals compatible with all patients.
COVİD 19 PANDEMİSİNDE PLASENTA İNVAZYON ANOMALİSİ OLAN GEBEYE UTERUS KORUYUCU YAKLAŞIM
Authors: Karadağ Ceyda , Birge Özer , Bakır Mehmet , Korkmaz Ünzile , Şimşek Tayup
Published: April 2024

Plasenta akreata spektrum bozukluğu (PAS) içinde yer alan plasenta akreata, inkreata ve perkreata insidansı, dünya çapında artan sezaryenle doğum oranlarına bağlı olarak artmaktadır. Primigravid gebelerde PAS insidansı %0.01 iken, uterus cerrahisi ve çok sayıda küretaj geçiren olgularda bu insidans belirgin olarak daha yüksektir. Bu invazyon anaomalileri yaşamı tehdit eden kanama ve buna bağlı masif kan tansfüzyonu nedeniyle annede morbidite ve mortaliteye neden olmakta ve acil histerektomi nedeniyle doğurganlık kaybına sebep olmaktadır. Covid 19 pandemisi ile mücadele edilen bu günlerde, PAS tanısı konulan olgulara konservatif yaklaşım oldukça büyük önem arz etmektedir. Bu olgu sunumunda, Covid 19 pandemisi döneminde konservatif cerrahi yöntemin tercih edildiği bir plasenta inkreata hastası tanımlanmıştır.
Taxonomía sostenible de México: lecciones para la construcción de herramientas de política pública
Authors: Ramos Johanna , Stein Ernesto H. , Lopez Solana Fátima Alejandra , Sosa Arias Arturo Alfonso , Espinosa De Los Monteros Hinojosa Isaura
Published: April 2024

La "Taxonomía Sostenible de México" (TSM), lanzada el 16 de marzo de 2023, representa un avance significativo hacia la transformación del sector financiero del país y una mayor movilización de recursos hacia actividades social y ambientalmente sostenibles. Además, la herramienta fomenta un entorno de certeza y transparencia en los mercados financieros, de forma que mitigará el greenwashing y social washing. Este documento tiene como objetivo identificar lecciones aprendidas en las dimensiones técnica, interinstitucional, de gobernanza, prospectiva y sostenibilidad. Para ello, el documento detalla el proceso de diseño y elaboración de la TSM. La metodología empleada incluyó una revisión documental detallada y la realización de entrevistas semiestructuradas con personas e instituciones involucradas en el proceso de diseño, consolidación e implementación. La metodología elegida permitió incorporar, de manera sistemática y desde una perspectiva integral, los desafíos, oportunidades y aprendizajes asociados al desarrollo de la TSM. El análisis destaca la inclusión de objetivos sociales en la TSM, en particular de igualdad de género, como un elemento innovador que refleja las prioridades de la política pública y la necesidad de abordar brechas de índole social. La inclusión del índice de igualdad de género separa a la TSM de otras taxonomías y posiciona a México como referente en la materia. Además, sobre el proceso de elaboración de la TSM, se destaca y detalla en el documento el establecimiento de estructuras de gobernanza que fomentaron la articulación de diversos actores, el papel activo de la cooperación internacional y de la banca multilateral, así como el liderazgo de la Secretaría de Hacienda y Crédito Público, institución que fue fundamental para garantizar el rigor técnico a lo largo del proceso, trabajo que continúa durante la promoción de la implementación y la adopción generalizada de la TSM. Este análisis busca contribuir a fortalecer la memoria institucional sobre la creación de herramientas de política pública y servir como referencia para otros países interesadas en desarrollar taxonomías sostenibles.
Technical Note: Policy-Based Lending at the IDB
Authors: Bouillon César P. , Fleiss Pablo , Pedraglio Roxana , Gotz Gunnar , Corrales Luis Fernando , Barcellos Andreia
Published: April 2024

This note presents findings and insights from different sources and constitutes the first building block for the Office of Evaluation and Oversights (OVE) policy-based lending evaluation. Prior evaluation work by OVE and the evaluation departments of other Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), as well as Inter-American Development Bank's (IDB) project databases, provide a rich source of information on the use and characteristics of policy-based lending. This paper synthesizes findings and insights from: (i) OVE's 2015 review of the design and use of policy-based lending (document RE-485-6); (ii) OVE's 2020 Lending instruments study (document RE-549); (iii) OVE's review of the demand and performance of policy-based lending in its country products (Country Program Evaluations or CPEs, Extended Country Program Evaluations or XCPE, and Independent Country Program Reviews or ICPR); (iv) OVE's validations of IDB's self evaluations of completed operations (project completion report or PCR); (v) the proceedings of a 2020 conference describing the experience with policy-based lending at the Asian Development Bank (ADB), African Development Bank (AfDB), and the World Bank (WB); and (vi) a portfolio analysis of policy-based operations approved up to December 2022.
Ambiguous Juliets, or Never Have I Ever…written nearly 2000 words about less than a second of Shakespeare on screen
Authors: Iyengar Sujata
Published: April 2024

This note identifies characters in Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher’s streaming teen television series Never Have I Ever (2021) as “ambiguous Juliets,” based on the lead character’s momentary framing with a copy of Romeo and Juliet before a climactic balcony or window-scene.
“It is much that the Moor should be more than reason”: Portia, Race, and Nation in Adaptation
Authors: Lewis Peter
Published: April 2024

The Merchant of Venice includes two characters of color: one in the list of roles—the Prince of Morocco—and one unseen and mentioned only in passing during the action—the Moorish woman made pregnant by Lancelet. Of all the adaptations of Merchant in fiction and drama, Morocco appears in only two. Likewise, the pregnant Moor. Furthermore, Portia is seldom a significant character in these adaptations, even though she is the largest role in the play. This paper explores Portia’s portrayal in adaptation in relation to race and nation. It considers Grace Tiffany’s novel, The Turquoise Ring (2005), as a rare example of how Portia’s problematic relationship with race has been interrogated in fiction and argues that a lack of desire to confront Portia’s racism is a major contributory factor to her apparent “unadaptability.”
El concepto de patrimonio biocultural y su aplicación en el turismo: una revisión sistemática de la literatura
Authors: Sardiñas Rodríguez Daniela Caridad , Serrano Barquín Rocío del Carmen , Palmas Castrejón Yanelli Daniela , Delgado Cruz Alejandro
Published: April 2024

En el contexto turístico actual se han incrementado los impactos negativos de la actividad sobre los destinos, específicamente en su patrimonio biocultural. Desde la academia existen escasas investigaciones sobre este constructo en el turismo, por lo que el objetivo del presente artículo fue analizar cómo se ha abordado el patrimonio biocultural en el contexto del turismo a través de una revisión sistemática de literatura. Para este propósito se realizó un análisis bibliométrico de las investigaciones sobre el tema en el periodo 2000-2023 en las bases de datos de Web of Science y Scopus, siguiendo la metodología PRISMA. Posteriormente, se realizó un análisis de contenido que arrojó dos categorías con relación al objeto de estudio: conservación y desarrollo sustentable a partir del patrimonio biocultural, y paisajes y patrimonio biocultural. Los resultados muestran un crecimiento irregular en el número de estudios sobre el concepto patrimonio biocultural, siendo estos escasos particularmente en la literatura relacionada con turismo; donde más que emplearse el término literal de patrimonio biocultural se adopta el significado o un enfoque biocultural en las investigaciones.
Navigating ethical dilemmas in complementary and alternative medicine: a narrative review
Authors: Adel Mehraban Mohammad Sadegh , Mosallanejad Asieh , Mohammadi Mehdi , Tabatabaei Malazy Ozra , Larijani Bagher
Published: April 2024

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a rapidly growing industry, with millions worldwide seeking these treatments for various ailments. While many CAM therapies have shown promise in improving health outcomes, there are also ethical challenges associated with them. In this article, we explore some of the most pressing ethical issues in CAM, including informed consent, justice in accessibility, and evidence-based therapies. This survey provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical issues in CAM and offers practical guidance for health-care providers navigating these complex issues. By understanding the ethical dilemmas in CAM, health-care providers can offer their patients safe and effective care while maintaining their professional and ethical obligations.
Exploring Trip Chain Pattern Choices at Urban Relaxation Facilities: A Case Study of Lego-Lego in Central Point of Indonesia
Authors: Yatmar Hajriyanti , Ramli Muhammad Isran , Adisasamita Sakti Adji , Chaerunnisa Andi Sitti
Published: April 2024

Lego-Lego at Central Point of Indonesia (CPI) is one of the famous relaxation facility areas currently hosting numerous visitors, specifically on weekends. People tend to spend their time at the first multi-purpose facilities in the morning and afternoon, causing traffic congestion and long queues at the entrance and exit. Therefore, this study explored the trip chain activity pattern and behavior of visitors using the facilities provided in Lego-Lego. This study was considered necessary because the government and stakeholders need to understand the trip chain pattern choices preferred by the people to give infrastructure, manage traffic problems, and formulate relevant regulations. The data were collected through interview-based questionnaires randomly distributed to visitors and analyzed using a multinomial logistic regression model to determine individual and trip characteristics. The results showed the variables with significant impacts on the trip chain and the trip chain models for the morning and afternoon were similar. It was also discovered that the probability of selecting trip chain pattern 1 reduced as the time activity increased while the probability of selecting patterns 2, 3, and 4 increased. This indicated that time activity influenced the trip chain activity pattern, but the cost was not. Another important observation was that the greater the diversity of facilities influencing the activity-travel patterns, the more time was required to engage in the activities.
Analysis of the Propagation of Temperature and Thermal Conductivity of Sawdust Pyrolysis Process with Modeling Fea and Experiment
Authors: David Rey Paul , Mujiyono  , Nurhadiyanto Didik , Yanuar  , Helmi
Published: April 2024

The study uses densified sawdust with heat propagation and thermal conductivity to achieve better pyrolysis and gasification processes. Analysis of sawdust's heat propagation and thermal conductivity during pyrolysis was developed with Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The thermal conductivity values of sawdust (k) obtained from FEA are 1.49, 1.3, 1.1, and 0.7 W/m C considering the sawdust heated with a triggering temperature (T0) 535 ºC and reaches a constant temperature of T1 = 265 ºC, T2 = 165 ºC, T3 = 115, and T4 = 95 ºC respectively after 20 minutes. The temperature distribution of sawdust heated shows between the experimental and FEA results is quite the same; however, differences on graph T1 show the experimental thermal conductivity (k) value is distinct from the simulated thermal conductivity (k) value due to a significant change that occurred as sawdust transformed into charcoal at minute 70, where the distance between point T1 and the trigger point (T0) is 40mm and after 180 minutes the sawdust had turned into charcoal completely. Furthermore, 31 grams (6.46%) of sawdust underwent pyrolysis in this experiment. The findings can aid future research and development in this field and provide valuable insight into the duration of time a bio stove utilizing compacted sawdust can produce a sustainable flame and be used as a reference for future experiments.
Wistar Rat Pneumonia Model: Bacterial Dose, Incubation Time, Inoculation Technique and Laboratory Examination Parameters
Authors: Majdawati Ana , . Reviono , . Hartono , Handayani Nestri , . Soetrisno
Published: April 2024

Background: Making animal models is important before research involving human diseases. This study aimed to prepare animal models of pneumonia through the intranasal technique with a focus on the effect of the dose of Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp) and incubation period on diagnosing pneumonia. We use male Wistar rats 6-8 weeks, 200-300 grams as much as 64 that appropriate the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Methods: The research method was the pre-posttest group design to prove the creation of a Wistar Rat pneumonia model based on the dose and incubation time for diagnosing Pneumonia. There were On days 1 to 5, each of the 4 rats underwent a thoracic radiography (CXR) 64 rats model divided into 4 groups, N: 4 healthy; T1, T2 and T3 groups of rats were inoculated with 25, 50 and 100 µL of 0.5 McFarland intranasal Kp solution. A group of rats was then sacrificed, followed by retrobulbar blood collection (leukocyte-neutrophil count) and bacterial count/NaCL and lung tissue was taken histopathology and bacterial count/Brain Heart Infusion (BHI). The independent variables were the dose of Klebsiella pneumoniae (Kp) and the incubation period. The statistical analysis of the correlation of dose of bacteria, incubation time with leucocyte and neutrophils used One Way Anova, Kruskal Wallis if the data were abnormally distributed. The correlation is the dose of Kp, incubation period with chest radiography, histopathology, blood bacterial count (BBC) and pulmonary bacterial count (PBC) using the Chi-square test. Result: The results showed that the dose of Kp was positively and significantly correlated with the neutrophil count (p=0.030) and the histopathology (p=0.000). Similarly, the incubation period was positively and significantly correlated with chest radiography (p=0.000) and histopathology (p=0.013).
1990 Sonrası Yaşanan Gelişmelerin Türkiye’de Yerel Katılım Uygulamalarına Etkileri
Authors: Özden Miray
Published: April 2024

Yerel yönetimlerin, vatandaşların günlük yaşamlarını etkileyen konularda daha etkin bir rol üstlenmesi, karar alma süreçlerine katılımın yerel düzeyde artırılmasına, toplumun çeşitli kesimlerinin temsil edilmesine ve bu şekilde oluşturulan politikaların daha kapsayıcı ve adaletli bir şekilde şekillenmesine olanak tanımaktadır. Yerel yönetimlerin üstlendiği bu misyon, demokrasinin sürdürülebilirliği aşamasında vatandaşların aktif katılımını çok daha ön plana çıkarmakta ve çağdaş yönetim teknikleri ile kullanılan katılım araçlarının çeşitlendirilmesi gerekliliğini vurgulamaktadır. Günümüzde dijitalleşmenin beraberinde getirdiği yeni kavramlar, yerel katılım yöntemlerinde “ulaşılabilirliği”, “kolaylığı” ve “kapsayıcılığı” arttırmakta, vatandaşları yönetim süreçlerine yaklaştırmaktadır. Bu açıdan, yerel yönetimlerin güncel gelişmeleri takip etmeleri, katılım yöntemleri açısından gelecek stratejileri belirlemelerine katkı sağlayacaktır. Uluslararası gelişmelere ve yeniliklere paralel olarak Türkiye’de de yerel yönetimlerin hizmet kalitelerini iyileştirmeleri aşamasında benimsedikleri yeni yol haritaları, yerel düzeyde bir vatandaşlık pratiği algısının oluşmasına zemin hazırlamış, vatandaş katılımının güçlendirilmesi yönündeki çalışmaların ivme kazanmasına yol açmıştır. Bu maksatla, çalışmada, Türkiye’de özellikle 1980 sonrası başlayan gelişmelerin 1990 yılında hız kazanarak yerel katılım pratiklerini etkilemesine temel oluşturması üzerinde durularak; Cumhuriyeti'nin 100. yılında yerel yönetimlerin vatandaş katılımını güçlendirmesi ve geleceğe yönelik stratejiler geliştirmesi için çeşitli öneriler sunulması amaçlanmaktadır. Bu öneriler, demokratik süreçlerin daha etkin hale getirilmesi, dijital katılımın teşvik edilmesi ve sürdürülebilirlik odaklı stratejilerin benimsenmesi gibi unsurları içermektedir.
The Role of Managerial Social Capital Head of Police Sector in Strengthening the Influence of Human Capital Leaders on Human Relations
Authors: Adisatria Wiwit , Sabar  , Juansih
Published: April 2024

Purpose - Leader human capital in the police sector refers to a leader with the knowledge, skills, and experience to develop and use human resources. Police leaders face a daunting task in developing human capital and turning it into organizational learning. This study examines the interplay between human capital and social capital, how it impacts human relationships, and the effectiveness of public security and order.
Design/methodology/approach - This study uses a quantitative approach, using a survey method, with the unit of analysis being the Police Sector and using multisource data sources, with a total sample of 82 respondents. Data collection for this study used a questionnaire with self-reported data.
Findings – This research found that the police chief's social capital management strengthens his human capital's influence on human connections. This suggests that the police chief's human capital and capacity can develop relationships. The test results also reveal that human relations affect police security and social services. The test results demonstrate that human capital does not improve police security and social services. Testing this model shows that human capital affects public security and order more effectively through human relations.
Originality/Value - This study investigates the interplay between social and human capital, focusing on their impact on security effectiveness and human relations within the Police as a command organization.
Policy Implication - Investing in human resource development and promoting strong human connections within the police sector is crucial to enhance the efficacy of security and social services.
Updated review on neuromodulators
Authors: Gupta Shreya , Sudharshan Rasika , Shen Alena , Zhang-Nunes Sandy , Siperstein Robyn
Published: April 2024

As botulinum toxin is increasingly used cosmetically and medically, it is important to understand the differences between each formulation of this product. While the active molecule in each is a 150 kDa protein that prevents neurotransmitter release, there are currently five products FDA-approved for clinical use, with a sixth currently in its Phase 3 trial and a seventh applied under FDA review, each with different nontoxic accessory proteins and varying amounts of human serum albumin. These properties affect diffusion rates and storage methods, which are outlined in this review. Common complications and recommendations to avoid them are discussed.
Recent progress in single atomic catalysts for electrochemical N2 fixation
Authors: Fan Binbin , Wang Weijia , Liu Zhihao , Guo Jifan , Yuan Hua , Tan Yeqiang
Published: April 2024

Ammonia (NH3), as an important chemical product, is industrially produced using the traditional energy-intensive Haber-Bosch method at high temperature and pressure. Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) to synthesize NH3 at ambient conditions has been considered as a promising candidate for replacing Haber-Bosch process. However, major obstacles, such as poor catalytic activity and selectivity and extensive competitive hydrogen evolution reaction, remain in NRR, which urgently need to be addressed. Single atom electrocatalysts (SACs) have attracted wide attention in view of their nearly 100% atomic utilization and outstanding catalytic performance. In this review, recent theoretical and experimental advances on novel atomically dispersed electrocatalysts for NRR are summarized and highlighted. We start with the fundamental reaction mechanism of NRR. Then, different preparation methods and the strategies of boosting catalytic performance of SACs from the aspects of coordination environment, coordination number, metal-support interaction and spatial microenvironment regulation are presented and analyzed in detail. Following this, the extensive applications of SACs in terms of noble metal based-SACs and transition metal-based SACs in NRR are discussed. Finally, we provide a perspective of the challenges of SACs for NRR, aiming to guide the rational design of advanced NRR catalysts.
Memorable tourism experience of heritage-local food on tourist behavior: Mediating role of destination image and satisfaction
Authors: Hidayat Indra Iryanto Nur , Mukarromah Nur Zakiyah , Putri Windi Mahendra , Nurhandini Nurhandini , Meidawati Devi
Published: April 2024

The primary purpose of this research is to find out how memorable tourism experiences influence revisit intention and recommendation intention of tourists who have visited to enjoy historical tourism and taste Rajamangsa local cuisine in Kebondalem Kidul Cultural Tourism Village, with destination image and satisfaction as mediating factors. This research uses a quantitative and descriptive-analytical approach, using a 5-point Likert scale for measurement. Non-probability sampling, specifically judgment sampling, was used to collect primary data. The sample consisted of 245 tourist respondents who had visited to enjoy historical tourism and taste Rajamangsa local cuisine in Kebondalem Kidul Cultural Tourism Village. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS 3.2.9 was used as the analysis tool. The findings of this study indicate that memorable tourism experiences directly influence destination image, travel satisfaction, local food tasting, and revisit intention when visiting Kebondalem Kidul Cultural Tourism Village. In addition, destination image travel satisfaction and local food tasting partially mediate between memorable tourism experiences and revisit intention and fully mediate between memorable tourism experiences and recommendation intention of tourists in cultural tourism destinations. This research highlights the positive impact of memorable tourism experiences on revisit intentions, destination perceptions, and traveller satisfaction. The practical implications are significant for tourism management in increasing satisfaction and building a positive destination image. However, this study has limitations regarding location coverage and online data collection methods. Future research must consider geographic variation, data collection methods, and other factors influencing tourism experiences.
Hydrogen Gas Compression for Efficient Storage: Balancing Energy and Density
Authors: Franco Alessandro , Giovannini Caterina
Published: April 2024

The article delves into the crucial realm of compressing hydrogen in its gaseous state, a pivotal process for enhancing its viability in both civil and industrial sectors. The study initiates by providing a concise overview and comparison of diverse hydrogen storage methodologies, laying the groundwork with an in-depth analysis of hydrogen's thermophysical properties. It scrutinizes plausible configurations for hydrogen compression, aiming to strike a delicate balance between energy consumption, predominantly derived from the fuel itself, and the requisite number of compression stages. Notably, to render hydrogen storage competitive in terms of volume, pressures of at least 350 bar are deemed essential, albeit at an energy cost amounting to approximately 10% of the fuel's calorific value. Multi-stage compression emerges as a crucial strategy, not solely for energy efficiency, but also to curtail temperature rise, with an upper limit set at 200°C. This nuanced approach is underlined by the exploration of compression levels commonly cited in the literature, particularly 350 bar and 700 bar. Ultimately, the study advocates for a three-stage compression system as a pragmatic compromise, capable of achieving high-pressure solutions while keeping compression work below 10 MJ/kg, a threshold indicative of sustainable energy utilization.
Sustainable Development and Transformative Change of Tibet in China from 1951 to 2021
Authors: Yan Ruoxin , Chen Ruishan
Published: April 2024

The year 2021 marks the 70th anniversary of establishing the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) within the People’s Republic of China. As with China as a whole, Tibet has experienced a tumultuous history over these past seventy years. Especially since the 1980s, the region has witnessed significant economic development, poverty alleviation, and increased social indicators such as life expectancy and healthcare. At the same time, substantial disparity within Tibet, as well as between Tibet and the rest of China, persists. This article tracks 16 social, economic, and ecological indicators for the past several decades, as well as levels of economic assistance provided to Tibet by other Chinese provinces and the Chinese central government in an attempt to narrow the development gap between Tibet and the rest of the country. The results show that since 1951, despite progress in many aspects, there remains a substantial gap between Tibet’s indicators and the average level of China, with the biggest gap being the illiteracy rate. Uneven development between regions within Tibet, especially between urban and rural areas, also persists.
One Health Scoping Review of the Epidemiology of Human Fascioliasis across Africa for the Period 2000–2022
Authors: Adriko Moses , Tukahebwa Edridah M. , Musoke Miph B. , Muwanguzi David , Nambuya Stellah , Vudriko Patrick , Chester Kalinda , Mukaratirwa Samson , Chimbari Moses J. , Stensgaard Anna-Sofie , Vennervald Birgitte , Mugisha Lawrence
Published: April 2024

(1)Background: Fascioliasis is considered a neglected tropical disease affecting an estimated 17 million people in more than 70 countries worldwide. The highest prevalence of human fascioliasis is found in regions where livestock farming and consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater plants are common, such as parts of Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. It is responsible for over 90,000 disability-adjusted years of life due to associated abdominal complications. We conducted a study to investigate the prevalence of human fascioliasis through a systematic review and meta-analysis of all available literature in Sun-Saharan Africa.(2). Methods: We screened a total of 126 publications using pubmed online search engine databases; Web of Science and CAB for articles published within a 20-year period between 2000 and 2022. We used a comprehensive search method using a combination of terms, parasite and disease names. The initial search resulted in a screening of articles by title, abstracts and full texts. The relevant information on the prevalence of human fascioliasis in Africa was extracted. Of the 126 publications, 33 articles were selected for meta-analysis. The essential information required was extracted from these documents and determined through statistical analysis in Microsoft Excel for calculating the prevalence of human fascioliasis in sub-Saharan Africa. The variance of each study was assessed using a bimodal distribution and heterogeneity assessment using a I2 index. Analysis was performed using random effects models.(3)Results: A total of 271 articles were searched through the database search and 33 articles were eligible studies that provided qualitative information on the prevalence of human fascioliasis in Africa. These make up 12.17% (n=33). The pooled prevalence estimates for human fascioliasis are 0.032% (IVhet PPE: 0.032% (95%CI 1.4-6.53). The highest prevalence rate was observed in Egypt with a prevalence of 100%. The prevalence of human fascioliasis is very high in some sub-Saharan countries, partly due to neglect of diagnostics, demonstrating the bias of available information for decision-making in human fascioliasis across Africa, given the spatial presence, scarcity and incompleteness are region.(4)Conclusions: The prevalence of Human fascioliasis is very high in some Sub-Saharan Countries partly due to neglect in diagnostics. This presents how highly focal with spatial occurrences, scarcity and patchy the available information for decision making is on Human fascioliasis across the Sub-Saharan African region.
Effect of Substrate Temperature on Weld Track Geometry in Directed Energy Deposition: A Comprehensive Investigation and Regression Modeling of processing 316L
Authors: Gnaase Stefan , Walter Artur , Rohling Robin , Tröster Thoas
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the effects of various process parameters, specifically the substrate temperature, on weld track geometry in Directed Energy Deposition (DED) processes. A specialized experimental setup integrated within a DED machine facilitates controlled thermal conditioning of sample sheets. Through Design of Experiments (DoE) methods, individual weld marks are generated and analysed to assess geometric characteristics. Regression models are constructed to predict machine parameters for desired weld geometry at different substrate temperatures. Validation experiments confirm the accuracy and reliability of the regression models. Results show a consistent trend towards target geometric features across a broad range of substrate temperatures. Despite deviations in measured values, successful fabrication is achieved, demonstrating robust bonding between weld and substrate. Contact angle predictions exhibit precision within a partial temperature range for proper deposition. The developed model offers insights for optimizing DED process parameters to achieve desired weld characteristics, advancing the capabilities and reliability of additive manufacturing technology. Future work aims to refine the regression model and explore additional mathematical relationships for enhanced accuracy. An implication of this work is the potential to vary the local mechanical properties of parts by controlling the temperature profile while maintaining consistent geometric characteristics. By manipulating the substrate temperature, it may be possible to tailor the microstructure and mechanical properties of fabricated components in the future to meet specific requirements in different regions of the part.
Relationship between Morning Blood Pressure Surges and Peripheral Inflammatory Biomarkers in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Sari Ummu Serpil , Yildirim Seda Elcim , Büyükserbetci Gülseren , Sackes Mesut , Esmeli Figen
Published: April 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common degenerative disease which may cause blood pressure abnormalities due to autonomic dysfunction. Early morning rise of blood pressure which is called morning surge is found to be related with some cardiovascular diseases when it is exaggerated. We wanted to search the relation of Morning blood pressure surge (MBPS) and inflammation in PD. Method: Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring for 24 hours, fibrinogen to albumin ratio, hs-CRP are used in this retrospective study. Fifty idiopathic PD patients and 50 age and sex matched control cases were included. MBPS, it has been defined as the difference between morning BP (measured 2 hours after awakening) and the lowest night-time BP. Body mass index (BMI) is used as an independent variable. Results: Median value of MBPS for PD group (21,63) was significantly different from the control group values (18,63) (p
Quality of Life and Respiratory Performance in the Laryngectomized Patient. Role of the Hme Filters during Physical Activity
Authors: Mesolella Massimo , Allosso Salvatore , Quaremba Giuseppe , Errante Veronica , D’Aniello Roberto , Motta* Giovanni , Motta Gaetano , Salerno Grazia
Published: April 2024

Background: Permanent tracheostomy because of total laryngectomy surgery entails great conse-quences for the patient regarding respiratory physiopathology such as the filtering, humidifying, and heating function of the air by the nose is lost. The use of special stomal filters can determine adequate protection of the trachea-broncho-pulmonary system with a reduction in respiratory pathologies. In fact, in most cases laryngectomee patients are first cigarette smokers who for this reason already have also respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Despite the availability of tracheal filters, multiple times, as reported in the literature, the patient tends to limit their use due to reported breathing difficulties, especially in conditions of intense breathing.
Methods: The objective of this clinical study was to evaluate the most suitable stomal filter for the laryngectomee patient during physical activity. The filters studied were an INHEALTH device (Blom-Singer SpeakFree HME); two ATOS devices (Provox® Life™ Energy HME and Provox® Life™ Home HME); and an FAHL device (Laryvox HME Sport).
Results: For this purpose, the performances of 31 laryngectomee patients, subjected to medi-um-high physical effort, were analyzed through a standardized pneumological test, the Six Minute Walking Test (6MWT) which involves a sustained walk lasting six minutes, with evaluation , every 60 seconds, heart rate, oxygen saturation and meters travelled; furthermore, it examines two sub-jective indices, namely, the basal and final dyspnea index and the initial and final muscular fatigue index.
Congenital Rubella Syndrome Burden is Unlikely to Increase with Introduction of Rubella Containing Vaccine
Authors: Frey Kurt
Published: April 2024

Rubella infection is typically mild or asymptomatic except when infection occurs during pregnancy. Infection in early pregnancy can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital rubella syndrome. Only individuals that are still susceptible to rubella infection during child-bearing age are vulnerable to this burden. Rubella containing vaccine (RCV) is safe and effective, providing life-long immunity. However, average age-at-infection increases with increasing vaccination coverage, which could potentially lead to increased disease burden as well, if the absolute risk of infection during child-bearing age increases. Dynamics of rubella transmission were explored using EMOD, a software tool for building stochastic, agent-based infection models. Simulations of pre-vaccine, endemic transmission of rubella virus introduced RCV at varying levels of coverage to determine the expected future trajectories of disease burden. Introducing RCV reduces both rubella virus transmission and disease burden for a period of around 15 years. Increased disease burden is only possible more than a decade post-introduction, and only for contexts with low current burden and high transmission intensity. Low or declining rubella virus transmission intensity is concurrently associated with both greater disease burden and greater vaccine effectiveness. The risk of increasing burden through vaccination only exists for locations with persistently high infectivity, high connectivity, and high fertility. A trade-off between the risk of a small, future burden increase and a large, immediate burden decrease strongly favors RCV introduction.
Recovery of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) from Different Sources of E-waste and Their Potential Applications: A Critical Review
Authors: Bhattarai Ajaya , Gardas Ramesh L , Yadav Shiv Narayan , Chatterjee Sujit Kumar , Dev Rohit Kumar
Published: April 2024

To be used in cutting-edge green and other technologies, rare earth elements (REEs) are in great demand. Rare earth elements (REEs) include the following elements: La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, and Lu; additionally, they include Sc. Computers, laptops, TVs, generators, DVD players, cell phones, refrigerators, and other electronic equipment that are usually thrown away by their original owners because of their limited lifespan are examples of outdated or end-of-life electronics that make up e-waste. At the moment, these metals are essential to many contemporary devices, from LED light bulbs and wind turbines to cell phones and televisions. The development of new, cutting-edge technologies, especially in the field of electronics, depends on the availability of rare earth elements (REEs), sometimes referred to as the "vitamins" of modern industry. Since e-waste frequently has high concentrations of rare earth elements and is handled in hazardous ways, e-waste may be a significant contributor to the contamination of rare earth elements. Apart from their detrimental effects on the environment, these wastes also result in the loss of precious materials and rare earth elements such as gold, silver, copper, platinum, palladium, and rare earth, among other things. Every year, 50 million tonnes of e-waste are created globally. An enormous amount of e-waste is wasted since only 20% of it is handled correctly worldwide. There have been numerous reports on the recovery and separation of rare earth elements (REEs) from e-waste using various techniques, such as the hydrometallurgical process, siderophores, pyrometallurgical process, bioleaching, and biosorption. According to reports, the demand for rare earth elements (REEs) from clean technologies is expected to reach 51.9 thousand metric tons (kt) of REO in 2030. Nd and Dy, on the other hand, make up 75% and 9% of the world's REE deposits, respectively. REE levels in aquatic settings are rising, particularly in urban areas, in tandem with the growing demand for high-tech applications. Urban wastewater from open sewers and the entrance of a wastewater treatment facility in Cotonou, Benin, was collected, and its rare earth element (REE) contamination was evaluated.
Antidiabetic Effect of Raru (Vatica perakensis) Bark Extract and Mocaf Activated Carbon in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Pasaribu Gunawan , Hastuti Novitri , Darmawan Saptadi , Pari Gustan , Efiyanti Lisna , Waluyo Totok , Lempang Mody , Adalina Yelin
Published: April 2024

Raru’s plants bark has long been used as traditional medicine in Batak’s tribe. Raru’s bark is derived from several trees that are usually used in a mixture in Batak traditional beverages. This bark is generally used as antidiabetic remedies. This study aims to combine the rarus’s bark extract and mocaf activated-carbon (MAC) in order to study antidiabetics in rats. The combination of raru’s bark extract and MAC were tested on male rats as of Sprague Dawley strain for testing antidiabetic bioactivity. The result showed that antidiabetic activity of raru’s extract and MAC exposed the antidiabetic level declines in rat’s blood. The various treatments of different concentration ratios of raru’s extract and MAC useful in the experiments showed that the levels of blood level reduction were slightly different (14-21%). The raru’s extract pure was observed more effective in decreasing the blood glucose level in rat’s blood, in comparison the positive control. The mixture of raru’s extract and MAC with 75:25 ratio is better than 50:50 ratio. The involvement of MAC in the alleged antidiabetic agent did little in improving the blood glucose level decrease in rat’s blood. Raru’s extract and MAC indicate its potential utilization as an antidiabetic agent.
Genomic Tools for Medicinal Properties of Goats Milk for Cosmetic and Health Benefits. A Review
Authors: Ncube Keabetswe Tebogo , Modiba Mamokoma Cathrine , Mpofu Takalani J , Mtileni Bohani , Nephawe Khathutshelo A
Published: April 2024

Goat milk's medicinal properties and potential cosmetic and health benefits have prompted extensive scientific investigation into its therapeutic applications, particularly for human skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Genetic factors, including genes such as lactoferrin (LTF), lysozyme (LYZ), and β-casein (CSN2), play a crucial role in shaping milk composition and its effects on skin health. This review explores the utilization of genomic tools to elucidate the genomic profiles of dairy goat breeds and the medicinal properties of goat milk, particularly in addressing key skin diseases. Genetic determinants of milk composition, quality, nutritional quality, and functional properties such as the growth hormone receptor (GHR), butyrophilin (BTN1A1) and lactoglobulin (LGB) genes, facilitating targeted breeding strategies to enhance the production of bioactive compounds with dermatological relevance have been identified. Future genomic approaches should aim at exploring goat milk's immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities, offering potential applications in skin care formulations for managing inflammatory skin conditions. Furthermore, the integration of genomic data with functional studies can provide valuable insights into the therapeutic effects of goat’s milk and its derivatives in addressing skin diseases.
Energy Storage Improves Power Plant Flexibility and Economic Performance
Authors: Sarunac Nenad , Khalesi Javad , Khuda Mahfuja A , Mancini Rick , Kulkarni Pramod , Berger Joel
Published: April 2024

Most existing coal-fired power plants were designed for sustained operation at full load to maximize efficiency, reliability, and revenue, as well as to operate air pollution control devices at design conditions. Depending on plant type and design, these plants can adjust output within a fixed range in response to the plant operating or market conditions. The need for flexibility driven by increased penetration of variable and non-dispatchable power generation such as wind and solar is shifting the traditional mission profile of thermoelectric power plants in three ways: more frequent shutdowns when market or grid conditions warrant, more aggressive load ramp rates (rate of output change), and lower minimum sustainable load, which provides a wider operating range and helps avoid costly plant shutdowns. Recent studies have shown that flexibility of a coal-fired power plant can be improved by energy storage. The objective of this work was to analyze a set of energy storage options and determine their impact on flexibility and economics of a representative coal-fired power plant. The effect of three energy storage systems integrated with a coal power plant on plant flexibility and economics was investigated. The results obtained in this project show that Energy Storage Systems integrated with a thermal power plant improves plant flexibility and participation in the Energy and Ancillary Services markets which improves plant financial performance. The study was funded by the U.S. Department Office of Fossil Energy FE-1 under Award Number DE-FE0031903.
Novel Chromogens for Immunohistochemistry in Spatial Biology
Authors: Gupta Bipin , Yang George , Key Marc
Published: April 2024

Spatial relations between tumor cells and host-infiltrating cells are increasingly important in both basic science and clinical research. In this study we have tested the feasibility of using standard methods of immunohistochemistry (IHC) in a multiplex staining system using a newly developed set of chromogenic substrates for the peroxidase and alkaline phosphatase enzymes. Using this approach we have developed a set of chromogens characterized by 1) providing fine cellular detail, 2) non-overlapping spectral profiles, 3) absence of interactions between chromogens, 4) stable upon storage, and 5) compatible with current standard immunohistochemistry practices. When viewed microscopically under brightfield illumination the chromogens yielded the following colors; red, black, blue, yellow, brown, and green. By selecting compatible color combinations we have shown feasibility for four-color multiplex staining. Depending on the particular type of analysis being performed, visual analysis, without the aid of computer assisted image analysis, was sufficient to differentiate up to four different markers.
Blunt Force Trauma in the Canarian Houbara Bustard (Chlamyd-Otis Undulata Fuertaventurae) Produced by Collision with Over-Head Lines
Authors: Suárez-Santana Cristian M. , Marrero-Ponce Lucía , Navarro-Sarmiento Jose , Rivero-Herrera Candela , Guzmán Raiden Grandía , Colom-Rivero Ana , Quesada-Canales Óscar , Sierra Eva , Fernández Antonio
Published: April 2024

The mortality of birds resulting from collisions and electrocutions with overhead lines, such as power lines, and phone line among others, has been implicated in the decline of various avian species globally. Specifically, overhead line collisions pose a significant threat to the conserva-tion of the Canarian houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata fuertaventurae), an endangered sub-species endemic to the Canary Islands.
This study centres on the postmortem findings of Canarian houbara bustards that have collided with overhead lines, providing insights into the post-collision outcomes for these birds. A com-plete standardized necropsy of nine Canarian houbara bustards revealed that polytrauma was the cause of death in all cases. The most notable gross lesions associated with trauma included bone fractures, soft tissue lacerations, haemorrhages, luxations, and hemocoelom, with certain body regions being more frequently affected. Histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and en-tomology analysis confirmed that numerous birds survived the initial trauma, exhibiting varia-ble survival intervals before succumbing to their injuries.
We concluded that when a houbara bustard collide with an overhead line it frequently survives the initial trauma. The histopathology, immunohistochemistry, or entomologic analysis may be helpful to approximate the timing interval between trauma and death.