bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Portuguese Physical Literacy Assessment Questionnaire (PPLA-Q) for adolescents (15-18 years) from grades 10-12: validity and reliability evidence of the Psychological and Social modules using Mokken Scale Analysis
Authors: Mota João , Martins João , Onofre Marcos
Published: March 2022

Background
Aims of this study were to assess construct validity (dimensionality, measurement invariance, convergent and discriminant validity) and reliability of the previously developed Psychological and Social modules of the Portuguese Physical Literacy Assessment – Questionnaire (PPLA-Q).
Methods
Mokken Scale Analysis was used in a final sample of 508 Portuguese adolescents (Mage= 16, SD = 1 years) studying in public schools in Lisbon. A retest subsample of 73 students, collected 15 days after baseline, was used to calculate Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC).
Results
The 8 scales in the 2 modules can be interpreted as moderate to strong Mokken scales with H coefficient ranging from .47 to .66; 4 of these scales had an interpretable Invariant Item Ordering (HT>.30). Results suggest that all scales function similarly in male and female adolescents, except for the Physical Regulation scale which has shown evidence of a sex bias. All scales had good total score reliability (ρ > .80, ranging from .83 to .94); regarding test-retest reliability: 3 scales had good to excellent reliability (ICC95%CI ranging from .72 to .95), and 5 scales presented moderate to good reliability (ICC95%CI ranging from .51 to .85). Scales score correlated as theoretically expected, with low to moderate across domain correlations providing support of convergent and discriminant validity.
Conclusions
Evidence supports the construct validity and reliability of the psychological and social modules of the PPLA-Q to assess the psychological and social domains of Physical Literacy in the Portuguese PE context for grade 10–12 (15–18 years) adolescents.
Quantifying Uncertainties in CERES/MODIS Downwelling Radiation Fluxes in the Global Tropical Oceans
Authors: Thandlam Venugopal
Published: March 2022

The Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) program using the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) (CM) has been updated with a launch of new satellites and made newly upgraded radiation data available. Here we study the spatial and temporal variability of daily averaged synoptic 1-degree (SYN1deg) CM version 3 (CMv3) (old) and version 4 (CMv4) (new) downwelling shortwave (QS) and longwave radiation (QL) data in the global tropical oceans spanning 30oS-30oN available during 2000–2017. Daily in situ data from Global Tropical Moored Buoy Array (GTMBA) has been used to validate the CM data during 2000–2015. Both QS and QL in CMv4 show significant enhancements with improved bias, root-mean-square error, and standard deviations (standard deviation) compared to CMv3. Furthermore, long term trend analysis shows that QS has been increasing in the southern hemisphere with 1 Wm− 2 per annum. In contrast, the northern hemisphere shows an annual decreasing trend of -0.7 Wm− 2. Both QS and QL shows similar spatial trend pattern. However, QL spatial patterns in CMv3 and CMv4 differ largely with an opposite trend (0.5 Wm− 2) in the Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific warm pool region and southern hemisphere. These annual trends in QS and QL could cause Sea Surface Temperature (SST) to change in the tropical oceans with a magnitude of -0.2 to 0.3oC per annum. These results stress the importance of accurate radiative flux data, and CMv4 data can be used as a better alternative radiation data to force standalone ocean models than reanalysis products. They may also be helpful to produce hybrid data by correcting reanalysis or other model-simulated data.
A novel human monogenic obesity trait: severe early-onset childhood obesity caused by aberrant expression of agouti-signaling protein (ASIP): a case report
Authors: Körner Antje , Kempf Elena , Stein Robert , Hanschkow Martha , Hilbert Anja , Jamra Rami Abou , Kühnapfel Andreas , Tseng Yu-Hua , Stäubert Claudia , Schöneberg Torsten , Kuhnen Peter , Rayner William , Zeggini Eleftheria , Kiess Wieland , Blüher Matthias , Landgraf Kathrin
Published: March 2022

In a patient with extreme childhood obesity, we identified a heterozygous tandem duplication at the ASIP (agouti-signaling protein) gene locus causing ubiquitous, ectopic ASIP expression. The mutation places ASIP under control of the ubiquitously active itchy E3 ubiquitin protein ligase (ITCH) promoter, driving the ubiquitous generation of ASIP as evidenced in patient-derived induced pluripotent stemm cells for all germ layers. The patient´s phenotype of early-onset obesity, overgrowth, red hair, and hyperinsulinemia is concordant with that of mutant mice ubiquitously expressing the homolog agouti. ASIP represses melanocyte-stimulating hormone-mediated activation of as an inverse agonist of the melanocortin receptors, thereby affecting eating behavior, energy expenditure, adipocyte differentiation, and pigmentation, as observed in the index patient. Furthermore, we identified another patient with the identical mutation, ectopic ASIP expression and a similar phenotype. Thus, human obesity caused by ubiquitous ASIP expression is a novel monogenic trait, potentially treatable by melanocortin receptor agonists.
Evaluation of CD39, CD73, HIF-1α, and their related miRNAs expression in decidua of preeclampsia cases compared to healthy pregnant women
Authors: Yousefi Mehdi , Yousefzadeh Yousef , Soltani-Zangbar Mohammad Sadegh , Kalafi Ladan , Tarbiat Ali , Farid Sima Shahmohammadi , Aghebati-Maleki Leili , Dolati Sanam , Parhizkar Forough , Danaii Shahla , Taghavi Simin , Jadidi-Niaragh Farhad , Kafil Hossein Samadi , Mahmoodpoor Ata , Heris Javad Ahmadian , Hojjat-Farsangi Mohammad
Published: March 2022

The Preeclampsia (PE) molecular mechanisms are not fully revealed and different biological processes are involved in the pathogenesis of PE. We aimed to evaluate adenosine and hypoxia-related signaling molecules in PE patients in the current study. Decidua tissue and peripheral blood samples were taken from 25 healthy pregnant and 25 PE women at delivery time. CD39, CD73, and Hypoxia-inducible factor-alpha (HIF-α) were evaluated in mRNA and protein level using real-time PCR and western blotting techniques, respectively. Also, miR-30a, miR-206, and miR-18a expression were evaluated by real-time PCR. At last, secretion levels of IGF and TGF-β in the taken serum of blood samples were measured by ELISA. Our results revealed that Expression of CD39 is decreased in PE cases versus healthy controls at mRNA and protein levels (p = 0.0003 for both). CD73 and HIF-α showed an increased level of expression in PE patients at RNA and protein status (p = 0.0157 and p < 0.0001 for protein evaluation of CD73 and HIF-α, respectively). The miRNA-30a (p = 0.0037) and miR-206 (p = 0.0113) showed elevated expression in the decidua of the PE group. The concentration of secreted IGF-1 (p = 0.0002) and TGF-β (p = 0.0101) in serum samples of PE cases compared to the healthy group were decreased and increased, respectively. In conclusion, our results showed that aberrant expression of molecules that are involved in ATP catabolism and the hypoxic conditions is observed in PE cases and involved in their hypertension and inflammation could be served as PE prognosis by more confirming in comprehensive future studies.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognosis of Patients with Glioblastoma with Infratentorial Leptomeningeal Dissemination
Authors: Kawauchi Daisuke , Ohno Makoto , Honda-Kitahara Mai , Miyakita Yasuji , Takahashi Masamichi , Yanagisawa Shunsuke , Tamura Yukie , Kikuchi Miyu , Ichimura Koichi , Narita Yoshitaka
Published: March 2022

Objective: Leptomeningeal dissemination (LMD) is a severe complication of glioblastoma (GBM) and has become a more common and indispensable clinical proposition with improved patient prognosis. Although infratentorial leptomeningeal dissemination (ITD) of GBM is rare, it is clinically significant as it may largely influence patient prognosis. Here, we investigated the clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with ITD.Methods: Data of patients with newly diagnosed isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wildtype GBM treated at our institution between October 2008 and December 2018 were reviewed. ITD was defined as the dissemination of GBM, which first emerged as a supratentorial tumor, and later disseminated in the infratentorial region as the first recurrent site.Results: Of 160 patients with newly diagnosed IDH-wildtype GBM, seven (4.4%) were classified as having ITD. ITD lesions were in the fourth ventricle in two patients, extra-cerebellum or extra-brainstem in two, and intra-cerebellum in three. The primary symptoms of ITD were gait disturbance (85.7%, n=6), nausea and vomiting (28.6%, n=2), cerebellar mutism (14.3%, n=1), and none (14.3%, n=1). In four cases (57.1%), symptoms were confirmed before ITD discovery.The median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival of the patients were 12.2 and 19.7 months, respectively. Radiotherapy was performed in five patients, and all the patients received chemotherapy. The PFS and overall survival rates from ITD diagnosis were 2.9 and 7.1 months, respectively. Patients with favorable prognoses were younger and had higher Karnofsky performance status (KPS) scores.Conclusions: Radiotherapy or molecular-targeted therapy may be effective in some cases of ITD and may contribute to extending survival. Carefully checking the infratentorial region of patients with GBM during follow-up and rapidly treating ITD before their KPS score starts declining are crucial.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of PIK3CA Mutations by circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in Breast Cancer: An Individual Patient Data Meta-analysis
Authors: Galvano Antonio , Castellana Luisa , Gristina Valerio , Mantia Maria La , Insalaco Lavinia , Barraco Nadia , Perez Alessandro , Cutaia Sofia , Calò Valentina , Russo Tancredi Didier Bazan , Incorvaia Lorena , Mirisola Mario Giuseppe , Rolfo Christian , Bazan Viviana , Russo Antonio
Published: March 2022

Background
The circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) diagnostic accuracy for detecting Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase, catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) mutations in breast cancer is under discussion. We aimed to compare plasma and tissue PIK3CA alterations, encompassing factors that could affect the results.
Methods
Two reviewers selected studies from different databases until December 2020. We considered Breast cancer patients with matched tumor tissue and plasma ctDNA. We performed metaregression and subgroup analyses to explore sources of heterogeneity concerning tumor burden, diagnostic technique, sample size, sampling time, biological subtype, and hotspot mutation. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and the related area under the curve (AUC) were elaborated for the overall population and each subgroup.
Results
The pooled analysis was carried out on 25 cohorts for a total of 1966 patients. The overall ctDNA sensitivity and specificity were 0.73 (95% CI: 0.70–0.77) and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.85–0.89). The AUC was 0.93. Pooled concordance, negative predictive value (NPV) and positive predictive value (PPV) values were 0.87 (95% CI: 0.82–0.92), 0.86 (95% CI: 0.81–0.90), and 0.89 (95% CI: 0.81–0.95) with pooled PLR, NLR, and DOR of 7.94 (95% CI: 4.90–12.86), 0.33 (95% CI: 0.25–0.45), and 33.41 (95% CI: 17.23–64.79). The pooled results consistently favored next-generation sequencing (NGS)- over polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methodologies. Metaregression and subgroup analyses highlighted sampling time as a possible major cause of heterogeneity.
Conclusions
These findings reliably estimate the high ctDNA accuracy for the detection of PIK3CA mutations. A ctDNA-first approach for the assessment of PIK3CA mutational status by NGS may accurately replace tissue tumor sampling, representing the preferable strategy at diagnosis of metastatic BC in patients who present with visceral involvement and at least two metastatic lesions, primarily given low clinical compliance or inaccessible metastatic sites.
Paravalvular Septate Abscess Presented By Complete Atrioventricular Block; Impressive Echocardiographic Images of Rare Pathology
Authors: Kuş Görkem
Published: March 2022

Paravalvular abscess is a serious complication of prosthetic valve endocarditis with various clinical presentations. In this report, we present a case of paravalvular septate abscess with demonstrative echocardiography images and complete atrioventricular block (a.v.) one month after aortic valve replacement. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed when complete av block was detected in the electrocardiography of the patient who presented with the complaint of fatigue and shortness of breath. Then transesophageal echocardiography was performed due to suspicious paravalvular abscess around the mechanical aortic valve in transthoracic echocardiography. In transesophageal echocardiography, paravalvular septate abscess image was detected. In patients with prosthetic valves, newly developing av block should be a warning for paravalvular abscess. Paravalvular Septate Abscess Presented By Complete Atrioventricular Block; Impressive Echocardiographic Images Of Rare Pathology
Extremely Severe Intractable Binge Eating Disorder: a Case Report With a Successful Alternative Therapy by Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Zhang Yong , Xiao Z. M. , Lu Z. N. , Wu X.
Published: March 2022

BackgroundBinge eating disorder(BED) is the most common eating disorder that mainly affects young women. BED often occurs in the patients with psychiatric disorders and relates to the impairment in psychosocial functioning (home, work, personal life, or social life). Psychotherapy is the first-line treatment for the BED patients. However, only 50% of BED patients can benefit from psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy has less effect than psychotherapy. Here, we report a case with extremely severe BED, whose discomforts were almost disappeared after taking only herbal formula based on Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) for 2 months.Case presentationThe case reported was a man aged 73 years who fitted the diagnosis of extremely severe BED. He ate a lot every meal, didn’t stop eating until he felt the extreme discomfort of abdominal distension, and ate more than ten meals every day. Only could an enema every day improve his constipation and the extreme discomfort of abdominal distension. He was transferred to dozens of hospitals because of the disease and had tried a variety of treatments, which had no effect on him. Here, we described in detail his medical history and treatment process. At last, his clinical symptoms were controlled and had no side-effect.Conclusion Besides psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, herbal formula based on TCM can be an alternative therapy for severe intractable BED patients.Level of evidence Level V, case report.
Intraoperative Challenge of Removing a Tibia Intramedullary Nail With the Herzog's Bend Facing Anteriorly- a Case Report
Authors: Rajappa Srinivasan , Veeraraghavan Raghav Ravi
Published: March 2022

Background:Intramedullary nailing of tibial shaft fractures is a very standard procedure. Removal of implant is done many times for reasons such as infection, breakage, nonunion and in situations where patient demands it. Complications during removal of tibia nail have been described. We report a case wherein an arthrotomy of the knee was necessary because of wrongly inserted nail with the Herzog bend(apex) facing anteriorly.Case presentation: 48 year old gentleman had undergone intramedullary nailing of the right tibia two years ago for treatment of a closed mid-shaft fracture. The fracture healed uneventfully, and the patient returned to all pre-injury activities. He visited us two years after surgery requesting removal of implant. There was difficulty in attaching the extraction jig as the mouth of the nail was facing posteriorly and the complete insertion of the jig was not allowed by the patella. Revisiting the X-ray intraoperatively, we found that the Herzog bend was facing anteriorly. Following this the nail was removed using a medial parapatellar approach.Discussion and conclusions: The studies published regarding removal of the tibia nail usually mentions the complications associated with the implant design or the patient factor. The implant design complicating the removal could be due to the non-slotted distal portion in the older generation nails. We had a complication due to the iatrogenic erroneous implantation of the tibial nail which was only found intra-operatively. The use of medial parapatellar approach was a useful method which helped us in insertion of the extraction jig and thereby helping in removal of the nail.
Adaptive finite-time event-triggered command filtered control for nonlinear systems with unknown control directions
Authors: Qi Xiaojing , Liu Wenhui
Published: March 2022

In this article, we study an adaptive finite-time event-triggered command filtered control problem based on output feedback for nonstrict-feedback nonlinear systems with unknown direction control gains. Firstly, the unknown nonlinear continuous functions in the systems are approached by fuzzy logic systems, and the coordinate transformation and Nussbaum function technique are introduced to settle the problem caused by the unknown direction control gains in the systems. Then, in order to lighten the communication load between the controller and the actuator, a finite-time adaptive event-triggered control algorithm is designed by means of backstepping technique. It is proved that the tracking and observer errors are adjusted around zero with a small neighborhood in a finite time and all the signals in the closedloop systems are bounded. In addition, the command filtering technology based on error compensation system with fractional power is constructed to avoid the complexity explosion issue in the backstepping design process. Finally, the simulation examples are included to verify the availability and superiority of the control approach.
Self-assembled DNA nanostructure containing oncogenic miRNA-mediated cell proliferation by downregulation of FOXO1 expression
Authors: Kar Avishek , Kumari Kanchan , Mishra Sandip K. , Subudhi Umakanta
Published: March 2022

FOXO1 transcription factor is not only limit the cell cycle progression but also promote cell death as a tumor suppressor protein. Though the expression of FOXO1 is largely examined in breast cancer, the regulation of FOXO1 by miRNA is yet to be explored. In the current study, self-assembled branched DNA (bDNA) nanostructures containing oncogenic miRNAs were designed and transfected to MCF7 cell lines to decipher the FOXO1 expression. bDNA containing oncogenic miRNA 27a, 96 and 182 synergistically downregulate the expression of FOXO1 in MCF7 cells. The down-regulation is evident both in mRNA and protein level suggesting bDNA having miRNA sequences can selectively bind to mRNA and inhibit translation. Secondly, the downstream gene expression of P21 and P27 are also significantly downregulated in presence of miR-bDNA nanostructures. The cell proliferation activity was progressively increased in presence of miR-bDNA nanostructure which confirms the reduced tumor suppression activity of FOXO1 and the downstream gene expression. This finding can be explored to design novel bDNA structures which can downregulate the tumor suppressor protein in normal cells and induce cell proliferation activity to identify early phase markers of cancer.
Effect of Lugol’s solution on 131 I therapy efficacy in Graves’ disease
Authors: Meng Zhaowei , Chai Jinyan , Zhang Ruiguo , Zheng Wei , Zhang Guizhi , Jia Qiang , Tan Jian , Wang Renfei
Published: March 2022

Purpose Lugol’s solution could control thyroid function and suppress 131I uptake in hyperthyroidism. This study aimed to investigate the appropriate time to withdraw Lugol’s solution before 131I therapy (RIT) in Graves’ disease (GD) patients, and how this should influence thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAb), 131I uptake and RIT outcome.Methods Two groups (125 cases and 1805 cases) of GD patients reveived RIT, who were pre-treated with and without Lugol’s solution (RI-CI group and RI group). The RI-CI group was further divided into the following sub-groups depending on the duration span between Lugol’s solution withdrawal and RIT: sub-roup A, 4-7 d (n = 49); sub-group B, 8-14 d (n = 41); and sub-group C, 15-30 d (n = 35). The highest radioactive iodine uptake rate (RAIUmax), effective half-life (Teff), TRAb, and free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) levels were compared, and therapeutic outcome was evaluated. Results There were no significant differences in RAIUmax, TRAb, and Teff among the four sub-groups (P > 0.05). Both FT3 and FT4 levels in sub-groups A and B were lower than those in group RI and sub-group C (P < 0.05). The outcome of non-hyperthyroidism (euthyroidism + hypothyroidism) in groups RI-CI and RI were significantly different at post-RIT month 1 and 3 (P < 0.05). However, intergroup differences at 6 and 12 months were not significant (P > 0.05). Conclusions Withdrawal of Lugol’s solution 4-7 or 8-14 d before RIT does not influence 131I uptake and RIT efficacy in GD. Moreover, in order to avoid a rapid increase in thyroid hormone levels at the same time, Lugol’s solution should be withdrawn 4-7 d before RIT.
Rational Design on Polymorphous Phase Switching in Molybdenum Diselenide-based Memristor Assisted by All-Solid-State Reversible Intercalation Toward Neuromorphic Application
Authors: Lee Ling , Chiang Chun-Hsiu , Shen Ying-Chun , Wu Shu-Chi , Shih Yu-Chuan , Yang Tzu-Yi , Hsu Yu-Chieh , Cyu Ruei-Hong , Yu Yi-Jen , Hsieh Shang-Hsien , Chen Chia-Hao , Lebedev Mikhail , Chueh Yu-Lun
Published: March 2022

Synaptic devices based on non-volatile resistive random access memory (RRAM) have inspired increasing opportunities, including in-memory computing and neural engines, while typical filamentary-based RRAM is subjected to large switching current and causes huge power consumptions. In this work, a low-power memristor based on vertically stacked two-dimensional (2D) layered materials, achieved by plasma-assisted vapor reaction, as the switching material, with which the copper and gold metals as electrodes featured by reversible polymorphous phase changes from a conducting 1T-phase to a semiconducting 2H-one once copper cations interacted between vertical lamellar layers and vice versa was demonstrated. Here, molybdenum diselenide (MoSe2) was chosen as the switching material and the reversible polymorphous phase changes activated by the intercalation of Cu cations were confirmed by pseudo-operando Raman scattering, transmission electron microscopy and scanning photoelectron microscopy under high and low resistance states, respectively. The switching can be activated at about ± 1 V with critical currents less than 10 𝜇A with an on/off ratio of approaching 100 after 100 cycles and low power consumption of ~0.1 microwatt as well as linear weight updates controlled by the amount of intercalation. The work opens alternative feasibility of reversible and all-solid-state metal interactions, which benefits monolithic integrations of 2D materials into operative electronic circuits.
Lacrimal Gland Measurements in Patients With Graves’ Ophthalmopathy
Authors: Yuksel Elmas , Sukun Abdullah
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Lacrimal gland sizes are increased in Graves' ophthalmopathy. Lacrimal gland herniation has been reported to be a simple radiological marker. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of lacrimal gland herniation (LGH) with lacrimal gland dimensions, proptosis, and hormonal parameters. Methods: Sixty-eight eyes of 34 patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy were evaluated. Lacrimal gland herniation, proptosis, the long and short axis of the lacrimal gland were measured in mm on the right and left sides. TSH, FT4, FT3, Anti-TPO and Anti-TG values of each patient were recorded. Multiple linear regression was applied to determine the factors affecting lacrimal gland herniation.Results: 21 female 13 male 34 patients were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was found to be 37.29±11.91 years The regression model for LGH was found to be statistically significant. (R2 right eye :0.57 R2 left eye 0.51 p<0.001). The predictive variables for LGH were short diameter of the lacrimal gland and proptosis. No statistical significance was found in other variables (p<0.05). The equation showing right LGH in millimeters was found as-5.268+ Lacrimal gland short-axis x 1.271 + Proptosis x 0.284. The equation showing left LGH in millimeters was found as-3.598+ lacrimal gland short-axis x 0.937 + Proptosis x 0.292.Conclusions: Lacrimal gland herniation is associated with lacrimal gland short diameter and proptosis. Our findings support that lacrimal gland herniation may be an important and useful radiological marker in Graves' ophthalmopathy.
Self-medication practices, prevalence and associated factors among Syrian adult patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Abdelwahed Rawan N. K. , Jassem Manaf , Alyousbashi Ayham
Published: March 2022

OBJECTIVES
Self-medication (SM) means using drugs to treat self-diagnosed diseases or symptoms. Despite its important role in reducing load on medical services, it may bear many risks. This study aims to determine the prevalence of SM and its determinants among adult hospital patients in Syria.
STUDY DESIGN:
Cross-sectional study
METHODS
453 adult patients were asked to complete a questionnaire through face-to-face interviews. Data were analysed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS). Chi-Square test was used to detect correlation between variables.
RESULTS
Out of 453 respondents, 67.3% practiced self-medication. Most used drugs were analgesics, antipyretics, and antibiotics. Main indications for SM included headache, cough/flu, and body aches. Pharmacists were the main source of knowledge about the drugs used in SM. The leading reason for practicing SM was mildness of complaint. Approximately half of the participants declared they read leaflets of drugs they used in SM. In this study, SM was significantly correlated with monthly income exceeding 48 US dollars, ages younger than 40 years old, and living in the city.
CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence of SM in Syria is high. Thus, awareness campaigns and serious regulatory measures should be implemented to control this phenomenon.
Intersectional Inequalities in Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices in India: Analysis of National Family Health Survey-4
Authors: Valappil Haseena , Rajeev Jayalakshmi , Sewor Christian
Published: March 2022

Background
Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) in the initial six months of infancy plays a significant role in the physical and cognitive health development of the child. One in two children below six months of age in India is not receiving EBF, with the rates varying considerably between and within states. The inequality in EBF rates are rarely addressed by researchers in general, and there are no studies from an intersectionality perspective. In this context we investigated the effect of intersecting inequalities on exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) practice amongst children below six months in India.
Methods
The fourth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) was used for the study. The study used a weighed sample of 211145 infants below six months. The intersecting social categories are created from variables such as place of residence, religion, wealth index and mothers’ education. Inequalities in the practice of exclusive breastfeeding were examined using binary logistic regression analysis.
Results
Findings from the study revealed that EBF practices varied significantly between the intersecting categories of religion, place of residence, wealth index, and education of the mother. EBF practice prevalence was highest amongst children born in the Urban-Secondary-Poor-Others group (57.9%) and compared to children born in the most disadvantaged group (Urban-Primary-Poor-Others), children born within this group had the highest odds (OR = 1.298; 95% CI = 0.974–1.730) of being exclusively breastfed, albeit the odds ratio was not significant. Wide disparities were observed in the odds of engaging in EBF practice amongst the middle groups than between the most advantaged and the most disadvantaged groups.
Conclusions
The study found that intersecting inequalities in exclusive breastfeeding exist in India. In order to improve EBF practice, targeted interventions must acknowledge and adopt a comprehensive approach which addresses inherent inequalities resulting from the intersection of various axes of social stratification.
Psychosocial aspects of deliberate physical suicide attempts by children and adolescents
Authors: Kinciniene Odeta , Sambaras Rokas , Lesinskaite Auge , Zilinskaite Virginija , Lesinskiene Sigita
Published: March 2022

Objectives: Suicide is the second most common cause of death among young people in Lithuania. This study aimed to evaluate circumstance, and conditions possibly related to suicide attempt in adolescents. Methods: Study was performed at the tertiary Children’s Hospital. Medical documentation of the suicide attempts from January 2011 to April 2018 was analyzed. Results: There were 102 cases included in the study: 83.8% female and 16.2% male patients (average age of 15.02 ± 1.9); 40.6% of patients lived in divorced families, 17.7%-in orphanages, 4.2%-in foster care; 36.4% suffered from parental alcoholism, and 17.2% experienced suicide in close surroundings; 54.1% experienced bullying or violence (26.0%), and 85.4% showed signs of other types of self-harm (girls more often (p < 0.001)). In 52.8% of cases, the attempt was spontaneous, and 34% relapsed. Conclusions: Female gender, living in orphanages, and signs of other self-harm were significantly related to suicide attempt.
An Empirical Analysis of the Effects of Population Growth on Economic Growth in Ethiopia Using an Auto Regressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) Model Approach
Authors: Befikadu Alemayehu Temesgen , Tafa Berhanu Alemu
Published: March 2022

Between 1980 and 2020, the study looks at "An Empirical Analysis of the Effects of Population Growth on Economic Growth in Ethiopia Using an Auto Regressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) Model Approach." The appraisal coefficient of population growth (POP) is positive and significant, according to the findings of this study. However, in response to the long-term association between population expansion and economic growth in Ethiopia, the macroeconomic variables were subjected to a limit test and a broader causality test. From the finding of bound test, since the value of F-statics is greater than the upper boundary line then there are long run equilibrium relationships between RGDP, Population size, foreign direct investment, personal remittance, population growth rate, rate of inflation and gross capital formation. According to the findings of the Grander Causality Test, Real Gross Domestic Product can cause Ethiopian population size (POP), but population number (POP) cannot cause Real Gross Domestic Product at the same time. Finally, in order to boost Ethiopia's economic growth, the government should implement policies that would attract foreign investors. The government should also establish a benchmark to ensure that the economy increases faster than the population.
RING CURRENT IN ANTHRACENE AND PHENANTHRENE: CORRECTION TO HÜCKEL PARAMETERS
Authors: Sudarso Yuanita , Maulana Arifin , Soehiani Agoes , Sutjahja Inge
Published: March 2022

Excessive degeneracy in the ground state of the π-electron energy levels of anthracene was removed using the Hückel method by correcting the Coulomb integral of the four central carbon atoms. A further correction to the resonance integral was proposed based on the ring-current model, which describes the π-ring current flow along the molecule’s perimeter, by introducing a new parameter for the bridge carbon atoms expressed as a fraction of the resonance energy. The solution to the Hamiltonian was obtained based on the symmetry group theory, which provides the advantage of solving the determinant matrix or secular equations in a particular irreducible representation with a relatively small matrix dimension. The results were further analyzed to determine the bond order and bond length. The values of the harmonic oscillator model of aromaticity, GEO, and EN indices of aromaticity and their ratio for the central and outer rings of benzene were used to evaluate the validity of the correction. Applying the same method to phenanthrene as a topological analog of anthracene allows for an interesting comparison of the stabilities of the two molecules.
Solar disinfection at low costs: an experimental approach towards up-scaled continuous flow systems
Authors: Johansson Jonas , Aguirre Ramirez Néstor Jaime , Escobar Tovar Catalina , de Jesús Vélez Macías Fabio , Adamsson Marie , Cañon Barriga Julio Eduardo
Published: March 2022

SOlar DISinfection (SODIS) systems have been studied with the aim of maintaining pathogen removal efficiencies and low costs. Such systems are useful for quickly improving the situation of more than 700 million people worldwide that lack access to an improved water source. Currently, SODIS is mainly used with PET-bottles that are exposed to UV-A radiation for 6 h in the sun. Up-scaled continuous flow SODIS systems could instead provide a continuous source of drinking water, whereas the use of plastic tubes, easily available on local markets, ensures a low construction cost of the systems. Such tubes (PVC) were tested and the best option showed a UV-A transparency ratio of ∼50%, to be compared with ∼60% for PET-bottles. By using static batches in samples of this tube, the residence time was investigated and the results show that E. coli concentrations of 0 CFU/ml are reached within less than 4 h of exposure to solar radiation, starting from an initial concentration of 106 CFU/ml. It can be concluded that cheap, easily available plastic tubes can be used for treating contaminated water with the SODIS technique, which is promising for future investigations towards constructing continuous flow SODIS systems at low costs.
Spatio-temporal analysis of precipitation, temperature and drought from 1985 to 2020 in Penang, Malaysia
Authors: Tan Mou Leong , Zhang Fei , Juinn Chan , Derek Chieh , Yu Kok Hwa , Shaharudin Shazlyn Milleana , Chan Ngai Weng , Asyirah Abdul Rahim
Published: March 2022

This study aims to analyze the spatial and temporal variability of precipitation, temperature and drought in Penang from 1985 to 2020. The trend and magnitude changes in climate series were tested using the Mann–Kendall test and Sens’ slope methods. A significant increasing trend of annual precipitation was detected in the middle and northern parts of Penang mainland by 21.38 and 35.01 mm/decade. Annual mean maximum temperature increased significantly on Penang Island and the middle of Penang mainland at the rates of 0.25 and 0.34 °C/decade, while annual mean minimum temperature increased significantly for all stations from 0.36 to 0.52 °C/decade, showing increases of warm nights in the past few years. Extreme drought events (SPI-3 > −2) over Penang were mostly occurred during the strong El Niño years, e.g. 1988–1989, 1997–1998, 2010–2011 and 2014–2016. The number of drought events is higher during the 2001–2010 (4–11 events) period as compared to the 1991–2000 (6–9 events) and 2011–2020 (7–8 events). Interestingly, the 2011–2020 period tends to have a shorter drought duration, but more intense droughts have been observed, particularly on Penang Island and the northern and southern parts of Penang mainland.
TRAJETÓRIAS ECONÔMICAS E ESPACIAIS DO GRUPO MRV:
Authors: Corrêa Bruna Ribeiro , Barros Samarane Fonseca de Souza
Published: March 2022

A produção imobiliária brasileira se transformou, a partir de 2009, com a criação do Programa Minha Casa Minha Vida (PMCMV). Dentre as transformações, destaca-se a participação de grandes incorporadoras no desenvolvimento do programa. Este texto visa discutir a trajetória da MRV Engenharia S.A, abordando sua formação e consolidação como um grupo econômico, suas empresas subsidiárias e, por fim, objetiva-se discutir a partir da noção de reescalonamento as alterações nas estratégias deste Grupo frente ao espaço urbano brasileiro. Utilizamos como fontes relatórios disponibilizados pela B3 (Brasil, Bolsa, Balcão) e dados sobre a produção do PMCMV presentes no site do Ministério de Desenvolvimento Regional. Notamos que ao longo do tempo, a MRV ampliou suas áreas de atuação e passou por mudanças que incorreram das estratégias de reescalonamento do Grupo em conjunto as demais alterações conjunturais e estruturais.
NOTA EDITORIAL
Authors: (es) Editor
Published: March 2022

Nota editorial

Sociedade e Território

Volume 33 - Número 3
Novel Post-translational Modifications in Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Kannan Surya , Krishnankutty Roopesh , Souchelnytskyi Serhiy
Published: March 2022

Aim:

This study aims to identify novel post-translational modifications in human serum
albumin by mass spectrometry.

Background:

Serum albumin is the most abundant protein in plasma, has many physiological
functions, and is in contact with most of the cells and tissues of the human body. Post-translational
modifications (PTMs) may affect functions, stability, and localization of albumin.

Objective:

Identify novel PTMs in human serum albumin by mass spectrometry.

Methods:

Human serum albumin (HSA) was used for tryptic digestion in-solution or in-gel. Mass
spectrometry was applied to identify PTMs in HSA. 3-dimensional modeling was applied to explore
the potential impact of PTMs on known functions of albumin.

Results:

Here, we report the identification of 61 novel PTMs of human serum albumin.
Phosphorylation, glycosylation, nitrosylation, deamidation, methylation, acetylation, palmitoylation,
geranylation, and farnesylation are some examples of the identified PTMs. Mass spectrometry was
used for the identification of PTMs in a purified HSA and HSA from the human plasma. Threedimensional
modeling of albumin with selected PTMs showed the location of these PTMs in the
regions involved in albumin interactions with drugs, metals, and fatty acids. The location of PTMs
in these regions may modify the binding capacity of albumin.

Conclusion:

This report adds 61 novel PTMs to the catalog of human albumin.
Chronic Kidney Disease-Mineral Bone Disease Biomarkers in Kidney Transplant Patients
Authors: Hasparyk Ursula Gramiscelli , Vigil Flávia Maria Borges , Bartolomei Victória Soares , Nunes Vitor Moreira , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: March 2022

Background:

Kidney transplant patients frequently suffer from Chronic Kidney
Disease associated with Mineral Bone Disease (CKD-MBD), a complex condition
that affects mainly kidney transplant patients. Post-transplantation bone disease is complex,
especially in patients with pre-existing metabolic bone disorders that are further affected
by immunosuppressive medications and changes in renal allograft function. Main
biochemical abnormalities of mineral metabolism in kidney transplantation (KTx) include
hypophosphatemia, hyperparathyroidism (HPTH), insufficiency or deficiency of vitamin
D, and hypercalcemia.

Objective:

This review aims to summarize the pathophysiology and main biomarkers of
CKD-MBD in KTx.

Methods:

A comprehensive and non-systematic search in PubMed was independently
made, emphasizing biomarkers in mineral bone disease in KTx.

Results:

CKD-MBD can be associated with numerous factors, including secondary
HPTH, metabolic dysregulations before KTx, and glucocorticoid therapy in post-transplant
subjects. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) reaches normal levels after KTx with
good allograft function, while calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, ultimately result in
hypercalcemia, persistent vitamin D insufficiency, and hypophosphatemia, respectively.
As for PTH levels, there is an initial tendency of a significant decrease, followed by a
rise due to secondary or tertiary HPTH. In regard to sclerostin levels, there is no consensus
in the literature.

Conclusion:

KTx patients should be continuously evaluated for mineral homeostasis and
bone status, both in cases with successful kidney transplantation and those with reduced
functionality. Additional research on CKD-MBD pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management
is essential to guarantee long-term graft function, better prognosis, good quality
of life, and reduced mortality for KTx patients.
Mechanisms of Antimicrobial Resistance: Highlights on Current Advance Methods for Detection of Drug Resistance and Current Pipeline
Antitubercular Agents
Authors: Kotakonda Muddukrishnaiah , Prasad Sunnapu , V. P. Shilpa , Abbas Heba S.
Published: March 2022

Background:

Sir Alexander Fleming accidentally discovered antibiotics in 1928. Antibiotics
have played a significant role in treating infectious diseases. The extensive use of antibiotics
has enabled the microorganisms to develop resistance against the antibiotics given, which has become
a global concern. This review aims to examine some of the mechanisms behind resistance and
advanced methods for detecting drug-resistant and antibacterial drugs in the clinical pipeline.

Method:

An extensive search was carried out in different databases, viz. Scopus, Embase, Cochrane,
and PubMed. The keywords used in the search were antimicrobial resistance, antibiotic resistance,
antimicrobial tolerance, antibiotic tolerance, and methods to reduce antimicrobial resistance.
All the studies published in the English language and studies focusing on antibiotic resistance were
included in the analysis.

Results:

The most common mechanisms involved in antimicrobial resistance are reflux pumping,
antibiotic inactivation, acquired resistance, intrinsic resistance, mutation, bio-film resistance, etc.
Antibacterial medicinal products for multidrug resistance (MDR) infections are active against pathogens,
which are registered in the World Health Organization (WHO) priority pathogen list (PPL).

Conclusion:

Furthermore, their innovativeness was assessed by their lack of cross-resistance. Finally,
novel antibacterial drugs without pre-existing inter-resistance, especially those with highresistance
gram-negative bacteria and tuberculosis (TB), are understated and urgently required.
Comparative Review of Effects of Pien Tze Huang and AnGong NiuHuang Pill and their Potential on Treatment of Central Nervous System Diseases
Authors: Yew David T. , Liu Congsheng , Chen Zhiliang , Wu Sharon L.Y. , Chow Tony C.H. , Cheng Rufina S.Y. , Lee Jocy T.C.
Published: March 2022

The ancient composite formulae Angong Niuhuang pill and Pien Tze Huang, which were used a few hundred years ago to treat febrile disease and inflammation, respectively, are found to exert effects benefiting other neurological diseases and conditions. This short review introduces the main constituents of the two formulae, looking into both the cumulative synergetic and possible individual effects of each herb or animal apcoien. In essence, the main effects of Angong Niuhuang pill include anti-inflammation, antioxidation, anti-cell death, anticonvulsion, antiedema, antipyretic, antithrombotic, antimicrobial (bacteria, viruses, fungi), neuroprotective effects, and cardiovascular protection. The main effects of Pien Tze Huang include anti-inflammation, antioxidation, anti-cell death, antithrombotic, antimicrobial, neuroprotective effects, and cardiovascular protection. Comparing both composites, similarities in the effects and part of the components are found, showing some pharmacological evidence. This review casts light on research on the effects of neuroprotective and cardiovascular protective mechanisms as well as treatment mechanisms for cerebral accidents from the integrative medicine perspective.
The Effects of Increased Glucose Level and Glycolysis on SARS CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Guzel Mustafa , Ozlem Zurnaci Fatma
Published: March 2022

COVID-19 has entered our lives as an infection with high mortality rates. Although the vaccination process has provided benefits, the death toll remains frightening worldwide. Therefore, drugs and combined therapies that can be used against COVID-19 infection are still being investigated. Most of these antiviral medications are investigational drug candidates that are still in clinical trials. In this context, holistic and different approaches for the treatment of COVID-19, including prophylactic use of natural medicines, are under investigation and may offer potential treatment options due to the fact that this is still an unmet medical need of the world. Thus, inhibiting the increased glycolysis in COVID-19 infection with glycolysis inhibitors may be beneficial for patient survival. This short review highlights the potential benefits of glycolysis inhibition as well as controlling the elevated glucose levels in patients with COVID-19.
Development of Decision Support System Platform for Daily Dietary Plan
Authors: Javadi Bagher , Kooptiwoot Suwimon
Published: March 2022

Background:

Solving health issues needs accurate and significant information regarding
food consumption. Recently, data analysis and communication have provided outstanding
and robust approaches to fulfill the necessity of scientific information and help in decisionmaking
in many fields. Many evidence has reported that with little information, better decisions
could be achieved.

Objective:

This research aimed to develop the Decision Support System (DSS) for the daily dietary
plan to practically help users in food consumption and health care.

Methods:

The system consists of 1,940 cuisine items, including Thai and English menus. In this
system, the user can set the daily dietary plan by selecting menu items with food-specific and total
calories. Overall calories of selected menu items would be calculated automatically. The user
can see the normal range of calories required based on gender with the help of the baseline (normal
office person).

Results:

This system can help users to become familiar with a better daily dietary plan, food calories,
and health care easily. Furthermore, experts (doctors) can improve their learning experiences
by formulating and adjusting the Decision Support System (DSS) for patients in special
need. The easiness and usefulness of this system are evaluated by 119 users using a Likert scale
(1=least, 5=most). The result, on average, is noted to be 4.58.

Conclusion:

The Decision Support System (DSS) is developed for the daily dietary plan. The accessibility
to the system is via personal computer (PC), smartphone, and tablet with an internet
connection. For future work, this DSS can improve by connecting the platform with health care
providers via sharing the data for more online support.
Isolation and Characterization of An Allergic Dimer Impurity in Cefmenoxime Hydrochloride by NMR and HR-MS Method
Authors: Xu Ming-Zhe , Li Jin , Yao Shang-Chen , Yin Li-hui , Hu Chang-Qin
Published: March 2022

Background:

We systematically characterized an allergic dimer impurity in
cefmenoxime hydrochloride raw material by UV, IR, HR-MS, 1D, and 2D NMR for the first
time.

Methods:

The dimer stock solution of cefmenoxime hydrochloride was obtained by the degradation
method. The target dimer impurity in the stock solution was separated by preparative
RP-HPLC and purified by the freeze-drying method. By comparing the dimer to cefmenoxime
hydrochloride, the functional groups corresponding to the characteristic peaks of UV and IR
spectra were identified, and the molecular formula and mass fragmentation pattern were determined
using HR-MS.

Results:

Then, based on the full assignment of 1H and 13C NMR signals， the dimerized position
was confirmed and its absolute configuration was identified by 1D and 2D NMR.

Conclusion:

This study provided a structural basis for the allergic study of dimer impurities in
cephalosporin drugs.