bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Education and Digitalization through the Prism of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gorina Larisa , Gordova Marina , Khristoforova Irina , Sundeeva Lyudmila , Strielkowski Wadim
Published: April 2023

Our paper discusses how sustainable education has evolved at higher education institutions (HEIs) during the COVID-19 pandemic by embracing digitalization and novel technologies. In addition, it describes the innovative methods for integrating technology into professional education during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We evaluate the global practices and fundamental changes in the sphere of higher education, particularly regarding sustainable education and digitalization. The paper aims at describing the challenges faced by higher education institutions in adopting sustainable education and digitalization, as well as the opportunities for growth and innovation that have arisen due to the pandemic. Our methods include the empirical model, which assesses the acceptance and usage of novel digital technologies for promoting sustainable education by university professors and academic researchers in four major Russian cities (Moscow, Krasnodar, Kazan, and Saint Petersburg) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of the model reveal the significance of implementing sustainability in the classroom, which could bring positive outcomes to both students and teachers. Our study provides a valuable resource for educators seeking techniques, models, and practical advice to overcome the obstacles of teaching in a digitally connected learning environment in Russia and beyond. Specifically, we propose that the primary focus of digitalizing professional education should be on teachers and instructors who are enthusiastic about leveraging technology for learning and who are familiar with novel digital technologies. It appears that digital technologies are capable of transforming teaching practices for sustainable education and economic development.
Influence of Arbor on the Cooling Load Characteristics of Rural Houses—A Case Study in the Region of Hangzhou
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiao , Ni Lujie , Zhang Tailong , Qi Feng
Published: April 2023

Numerous experiments have shown that trees can reduce the energy consumption of adjacent buildings, but little research has been carried out on how leaf area density (LAD) and the distance between walls and trees (DW-T) in different orientations affect the energy consumption of rural houses. Using an investigation method, a simulation method, and a remote sensing information extraction method, the impact of different tree-planting scenarios on the energy consumption of typical rural houses was analyzed. The results show that the energy-saving effect becomes more prominent with a higher leaf area density of trees in summer. Under the same conditions, Osmanthus fragrans is the most effective tree, followed by Koelreuteria paniculata, and then pomegranate. Moreover, the energy-saving rate of the rural house increases with a decrease in the wall–crown distance of the tree. For instance, when a Koelreuteria paniculata is planted on the west side of the rural house with a wall–crown distance of 1–3 m, the energy-saving rate ranges from 4.38% to 9.81%. Additionally, the planting orientation of the tree affects the energy-saving rate, with the west-facing orientation being the best and the north-facing orientation being the worst under the same conditions, and the energy-saving rate of the best orientation (west-facing) ranging from 2.11% to 14.98%. By establishing a comprehensive model, it was found that planting Osmanthus fragrans on the west side of a rural house with a 1 m wall–crown distance yields the best energy-saving effect. The results of this study can provide theoretical support for planting trees around rural houses from the perspective of energy saving.
Insights into the Effects of CeO2 Nanoparticles on Medium-Chain Carboxylates Production from Waste Activated Sludge
Authors: Sun Huanqing , Liu Chao , Ren Shanshan , Liang Kuijing , Zhang Zhiqiang , Su Changqing , Pei Sujian , Usman Muhammad
Published: April 2023

The synthesis of medium-chain carboxylates (MCCs) from waste-activated sludge (WAS) upgrading has received considerable attention. However, limited research has been conducted on the effects of CeO2 nanoparticles (NPs) on this process. This study showed that 1 mg/g−TS of CeO2 NPs improved the solubilization of WAS, resulting in higher production of MCCs. At 5 mg/g−TS, CeO2 NPs weakly inhibited 3 biological steps. Despite this, there was an enhancement in WAS solubilization, thus the overall production of MCCs was similar to the control. However, doses of CeO2 NPs ranging from 25–100 mg/g−TS were unable to offset biological inhibition, leading to a decrease in MCC production. The toxic mechanisms involved were not the generation of reactive oxygen species or Ce ions from CeO2 NPs to anaerobic sludge, but instead the decline of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) and destruction of the cell membrane through physical penetration. Microbial community analysis confirmed that 1 mg/g−TS of CeO2 NPs increased the relative abundance of key bacteria involved in the anaerobic fermentation of WAS. The MCC microbe Clostridium sensu stricto was enriched in the control group, while the relative abundance of this genus was significantly reduced with 100 mg/g−TS CeO2 NPs.
The Impact of Labor Market Risk on Youth Career Preparation for Sustainable Development: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Lin Yen-Ling , Kang Cheng-Yi
Published: April 2023

The issue of how youth are motivated to prepare for their careers has been longstanding, yet studies in this area remain limited. This study examines the effect of labor market risk, such as wages and unemployment, on the career preparedness of young people, taking the example of Taiwan. Multi-year cross-sectional data from a manpower utilization survey and higher education survey were used, and logit models, including the multilevel-multinomial logit model and ordered models, were employed to analyze the empirical data. The findings suggest that youth career preparation is positively affected by market risk variables. Additionally, school participation and parental employment status appear to play important roles in determining the career preparedness of young people. It is essential that sustainable development is enabled so that today’s youth can develop the skills and capabilities necessary for a prosperous future.
How Does Friendship Motivate Frontline Employees to Exhibit Brand Ambassador Behavior: The Important Role of Well-Being and Helping Behavior
Authors: Wang Haihong , Sha Hongxia , Wang Yi , Cheng Lijie , Yu Qifan , Jia Deyun , Lu Liuting
Published: April 2023

Training employees to become image ambassadors is an important manifestation of an organization’s internal branding. However, most tourism destination marketing studies consider external image-building and pay little attention to the brand ambassador behavior of internal members. This study investigates 208 front-line employees in two tourist attractions and constructs a structural equation model including workplace friendship, employee well-being, employee helping behavior, and employee brand ambassador behavior. The results show that: (1) workplace friendship has a significant promoting effect on employee brand ambassador behavior; (2) employee helping behavior mediates the relationships between workplace friendship and employee well-being, and between workplace friendship and employee brand ambassador behavior; (3) employee well-being mediates the relationship between workplace friendship and employee brand ambassador behavior; (4) employee helping behavior and employee well-being play a chain-mediating role in the relationship between workplace friendship and employee brand ambassador behavior. Our findings not only enrich the theoretical understanding of outcomes of workplace friendship, but also provide important guidance for tourist attractions regarding internal brand marketing.
Homogeneous Photosensitized Oxidation for Water Reuse in Cellars: A Study of Different Photosensitizers
Authors: Santos Andreia D. , Gonçalves Diana , Martins Rui C. , Gmurek Marta , Nogueira Anabela , Castro-Silva Sérgio , Castro Luis M. , Quinta-Ferreira Rosa
Published: April 2023

The demand for fresh water is increasing daily, requiring industries to take action to reduce the need for fresh water. Winemaking industries represent a massive hydric impact by combining the water consumed and the high volume of wastewater produced. The sun-driven photooxidation process has been widely employed in removing wastewater pollutants. This work employed four photosensitizers, Rose Bengal, AlPcS4, ZnPcS4, and TPP, for water reuse in cellars. A secondary effluent has been investigated as a water matrix. Of all the photosensitizers (PS) employed, ZnPcS4 showed better chemical oxygen demand (COD) (23%) and phenolic (TPh) (81%) removal. The effect of pH and concentration was also assessed for ZnPcS4. The phenolic content removal was found to be highly dependent on the solution’s pH, as alkaline solutions improve the singlet oxygen quantum yield where the use of a pH = 11 reached 42% and 81% of COD and TPH removal. However, a pH higher than 7 showed higher PS bleaching than pH = 7. Three different PS concentrations were evaluated: 3 × 10−6, 5 × 10−6, and 1 × 10−5 mol/L. The optimal PS concentration was found to be 5 × 10−6 mol/L.
Towards the Senior Resident Social Interaction System: A Case Study of Interactive Gallery
Authors: Li Cun , Zhang Linghao , Lin Xu , Kang Kai , Hu Jun , Hengeveld Bart , Hummels Caroline
Published: April 2023

The number of older adults residing in nursing institutions is increasing, and many of them experience social isolation. The social interaction of older adults constitutes a complex system that involves multiple stakeholders, including fellow residents, caregivers, members of the local community, etc. This paper proposes an Interactive Gallery, comprising a cluster of scenery collectors and an interactive installation resembling a gallery. It aims to promote social interaction among nursing home residents and members of the local community, as well as between senior residents within the nursing home. We conducted a field study that employed behavior observation and semi-structured interviews. Our findings show that the Interactive Gallery had a positive impact on the social interaction of senior participants, and it also stimulated their interest in sharing their experiences with individuals outside of the nursing home. The implications of our field study are significant. We highlight the social interaction system and behavioral characteristics of senior residents, strategies for enhancing social interaction within the nursing home, and strategies for promoting social interaction between senior residents and members of the local community. The Interactive Gallery presents a novel approach to addressing the issue of social isolation among senior residents in nursing homes. Our field study findings demonstrate its potential to improve the quality of life of seniors by promoting social interaction and engagement.
Parabens Increase Sulfamethoxazole-, Tetracycline- and Paraben-Resistant Bacteria and Reshape the Nitrogen/Sulfur Cycle-Associated Microbial Communities in Freshwater River Sediments
Authors: Yang Chu-Wen , Lee Wei-Chen
Published: April 2023

Backgrounds Parabens are pollutants of emerging concern in aquatic environments. Extensive studies regarding the occurrences, fates and behavior of parabens in aquatic environments have been reported. However, little is known about the effects of parabens on microbial communities in freshwater river sediments. This study reveals the effects of methylparaben (MP), ethylparaben (EP), propylparaben (PP) and butylparaben (BP) on antimicrobial-resistant microbiomes, nitrogen/sulfur cycle-associated microbial communities and xenobiotic degrading microbial communities in freshwater river sediments. Methods The river water and sediments collected from the Wai-shuangh-si Stream in Taipei City, Taiwan were used to construct a model system in fish tanks to test the effects of parabens in laboratory. Results Tetracycline-, sulfamethoxazole- and paraben-resistant bacteria increased in all paraben treated river sediments. The order of the overall ability to produce an increment in sulfamethoxazole-, tetracycline- and paraben-resistant bacteria was MP > EP > PP > BP. The proportions of microbial communities associated with xenobiotic degradation also increased in all paraben-treated sediments. In contrast, penicillin-resistant bacteria in both the aerobic and anaerobic culture of paraben-treated sediments decreased drastically at the early stage of the experiments. The proportions of four microbial communities associated with the nitrogen cycle (anammox, nitrogen fixation, denitrification and dissimilatory nitrate reduction) and sulfur cycle (thiosulfate oxidation) largely increased after the 11th week in all paraben-treated sediments. Moreover, methanogens and methanotrophic bacteria increased in all paraben-treated sediments. In contrast, the nitrification, assimilatory sulfate reduction and sulfate-sulfur assimilation associated to microbial communities in the sediments were decreased by the parabens. The results of this study uncover the potential effects and consequences of parabens on microbial communities in a freshwater river environment.
Proceedings of the 5th Asia Dengue Summit
Authors: Srisawat Nattachai , Gubler Duane J. , Pangestu Tikki , Thisyakorn Usa , Ismail Zulkifli , Goh Daniel , Capeding Maria Rosario , Bravo Lulu , Yoksan Sutee , Tantawichien Terapong , Hadinegoro Sri Rezeki , Rafiq Kamran , Picot Valentina Sanchez , Ooi Eng Eong
Published: April 2023

The 5th Asia Dengue Summit, themed “Roll Back Dengue”, was held in Singapore from 13 to 15 June 2022. The summit was co-convened by Asia Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA), Global Dengue and Aedes transmitted Diseases Consortium (GDAC), Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Tropical Medicine and Public Health Network (SEAMEO TROPMED), and the Fondation Mérieux (FMx). Dengue experts from academia and research and representatives from the Ministries of Health, Regional and Global World Health Organization (WHO), and International Vaccine Institute (IVI) participated in the three-day summit. With more than 270 speakers and delegates from over 14 countries, 12 symposiums, and 3 full days, the 5th ADS highlighted the growing threat of dengue, shared innovations and strategies for successful dengue control, and emphasized the need for multi-sectoral collaboration to control dengue.
Enhancing the Definitions of Climate-Change Loss and Damage Based on Land Conversion in Florida, U.S.A.
Authors: Mikhailova Elena A. , Lin Lili , Hao Zhenbang , Zurqani Hamdi A. , Post Christopher J. , Schlautman Mark A. , Post Gregory C. , Shepherd George B. , Kolarik Sarah J.
Published: April 2023

Loss and damage (L&D) from climate change result from past and current greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Current definitions of L&D exclude GHG emissions even though they represent L&D to human beings and the environment. This study’s objective was to identify and quantify the L&D from GHG emissions associated with land developments using the state of Florida (FL) in the United States of America (USA) as a case study. All land developments in FL caused various L&D (20,249.6 km2, midpoint 3.0 × 1011 of total soil carbon (TSC) losses with midpoint $50.3B (where B = billion = 109, USD) in social costs of carbon dioxide emissions, SC-CO2), while “new” land developments (1703.7 km2) in the period from 2001 to 2016 caused a complete loss of midpoint 2.8 × 1010 kg of TSC resulting in midpoint $4.5B SC-CO2. These emissions are currently not accounted for in FL’s total carbon footprint (CF). Climate-change-related damages in FL include permanent losses (e.g., land losses), with 47 out of 67 FL’s counties potentially affected by the projected sea-level rise and repairable damages (e.g., destruction from hurricanes). Based on the fixed social cost of carbon (C), there appears to be a disconnect between the value attributed to soil-based emissions and the actual market-driven losses from climate-change-associated costs. The social cost of C could be scaled based on the vulnerability of a particular community and the market-based cost of L&D mitigation. Programs for compensation on the international level should be carefully designed to help people who have suffered climate-related L&D, without creating reverse climate change adaptation (RCCA), where compensation causes people to remain in areas that are vulnerable to climate-related L&D.
Mpox Virus: Its Molecular Evolution and Potential Impact on Viral Epidemiology
Authors: Yu Xi , Shi Huicheng , Cheng Gong
Published: April 2023

Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is an infectious viral illness caused by the mpox virus (MPXV), an orthopoxvirus that belongs to the family Poxviridae. The symptoms of mpox in humans are similar to those of smallpox, although the mortality rate is lower. In recent years, the concern over a potential global pandemic has increased due to reports of mpox spreading across Africa and other parts of the world. Prior to this discovery, mpox was a rare zoonotic disease restricted to endemic regions of Western and Central Africa. The sudden emergence of MPXV cases in multiple regions has raised concerns about its natural evolution. This review aims to provide an overview of previously available information about MPXV, including its genome, morphology, hosts and reservoirs, and virus–host interaction and immunology, as well as to perform phylogenetic analysis on available MPXV genomes, with an emphasis on the evolution of the genome in humans as new cases emerge.
The Envelope (E) Protein of SARS-CoV-2 as a Pharmacological Target
Authors: Santos-Mendoza Teresa
Published: April 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus is still a global health concern. Several spike (S) protein-based vaccines have been developed that efficiently protect the human population against severe forms of COVID-19. However, some SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) have emerged that evade the protective effect of vaccine-induced antibodies. Therefore, efficient and specific antiviral treatments to control COVID-19 are indispensable. To date, two drugs have been approved for mild COVID-19 treatment; nevertheless, more drugs, preferably broad-spectrum and ready-to-use therapeutic agents for new pandemics, are needed. Here, I discuss the PDZ-dependent protein-protein interactions of the viral E protein with host proteins as attractive alternatives for the development of antivirals against coronavirus.
Current Perspective of Metaverse Application in Medical Education, Research and Patient Care
Authors: Suh Irene , McKinney Tess , Siu Ka-Chun
Published: April 2023

As virtual and augmented reality simulation technologies advance, the use of such technologies in medicine is widespread. The advanced virtual and augmented systems coupled with a complex interactive, immersive environment create a metaverse. The metaverse enables us to connect with others in a virtual world free of spatial restrictions and time constraints. In the educational aspect, it allows collaboration among peers and educators in an immersive 3D environment that can imitate the actual classroom setting with learning tools. Metaverse technology enables visualization of virtual 3D structures, facilitates collaboration and small group activities, improves mentor–mentee interactions, provides opportunities for self-directed learning experiences, and helps develop teamwork skills. The metaverse will be adapted rapidly in healthcare, boost digitalization, and grow in use in surgical procedures and medical education. The potential advantages of using the metaverse in diagnosing and treating patients are tremendous. This perspective paper provides the current state of technology in the medical field and proposes potential research directions to harness the benefits of the metaverse in medical education, research, and patient care. It aims to spark interest and discussion in the application of metaverse technology in healthcare and inspire further research in this area.
Designing High-Power-Density Electric Motors for Electric Vehicles with Advanced Magnetic Materials
Authors: Guo Youguang , Liu Lin , Ba Xin , Lu Haiyan , Lei Gang , Yin Wenliang , Zhu Jianguo
Published: April 2023

As we face issues of fossil fuel depletion and environmental pollution, it is becoming increasingly important to transition towards clean renewable energies and electric vehicles (EVs). However, designing electric motors with high power density for EVs can be challenging due to space and weight constraints, as well as issues related to power loss and temperature rise. In order to overcome these challenges, a significant amount of research has been conducted on designing high-power-density electric motors with advanced materials, improved physical and mathematical modeling of materials and the motor system, and system-level multidisciplinary optimization of the entire drive system. These technologies aim to achieve high reliability and optimal performance at the system level. This paper provides an overview of the key technologies for designing high-power-density electric motors for EVs with high reliability and system-level optimal performance, with the focus on advanced magnetic materials and the proper modeling of core losses under two-dimensional or three-dimensional vectorial magnetizations. This paper will also discuss the major challenges associated with designing these motors and the possible future research directions in the field.
Construction and Immunogenicity Evaluation of Recombinant Adenovirus-Expressing Capsid Protein of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Types O and A
Authors: Wang Cancan , Zhang Liping , Yu Ruiming , Zhou Peng , Zhang Zhongwang , Miao Xin , Li Mingxia , Lv Jianliang , Pan Li , Wang Yonglu , Liu Xinsheng
Published: April 2023

The objective of this study was to construct a recombinant adenovirus expressing the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) capsid protein of types O and A for future FMDV vaccines to be used in the livestock industry for the reduction in losses caused by FMD outbreaks. Three recombinant adenoviruses, rAdv-P12A3B3C-OZK93, rAdv-P12A3B3C-OA58, and rAdv-P12A3C-AF72, were packaged, characterized, and amplified using the AdMaxTM adenovirus packaging system, and the humoral and cellular immunity levels were further evaluated in guinea pigs with monovalent or bivalent forms. The results showed that the three recombinant adenoviruses could elicit high levels of humoral and cellular immune responses against FMDV types O and A when immunizing monovalent or bivalent forms, and the immune effect changes with the change in the proportion of recombinant adenovirus types O and A, laying an important foundation for the future development of a new FMD live-carrier vaccine. These results implied that the recombinant adenovirus expressing the FMDV capsid protein of types O and A could be used to prevent FMDV in livestock.
Online Supplement to “Informing Healthcare Alarm Design and Use: A Human Factors Cross-Industry Perspective”
Authors: Pruitt Zoe , Bocknek Lucy , Busog Deanna-Nicole , Spaar Patricia , Milicia Arianna , Howe Jessica , Franklin Ella , Krevat Seth , Jones Rebecca , Ratwani Raj
Published: April 2023

This supplementary material has been provided by the authors to give readers additional information about their work.
Correlation between neutrophil to lymphocyte and platelet to lymphocyte ratios and renal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus in Central Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hoang Thanh Van , Nguyen Thanh Thu
Published: April 2023

Background: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with diverse clinical manifestations and relapsing - remitting disease course. Nephritis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with lupus. Many clinical parameters and laboratory markers can be used to evaluate disease activity and nephritis. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are positively associated with inflammatory disorders. Objectives: To evaluate the correlation between NLR and PLR in peripheral blood and renal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus. Methods: 63 patients were diagnosed with SLE according to the criteria of the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics 2012 (SLICC 2012) and were treated at the Internal Medicine Department of Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Thua Thien Hue province, in central Vietnam, from February 2020 to July 2021. This study included 41 SLE patients with lupus nephritis (LN) and 22 SLE patients without renal involvement. Results: The mean age of the study group was 31.67 ± 12.10. The most common age group was 21-50 years old, accounting for 69.8%. Females accounted for 90.5% and the female-to-male ratio stood at 9.5:1. Clinical
and laboratory characteristics: acute cutaneous lupus 50.8%, subacute cutaneous lupus 11.1%, oral ulcers 27%, non - scarring alopecia 47.6%, arthritis 61.9%, pleural or pericardial effusion 30.2%, renal involvement 65.1%, neuropsychiatric damage 4.8%, anemia 81.0%, leukopenia 22.2%, neutropenia 11.1%, lymphopenia 41.3%, thrombocytopenia 15.9%, hemolytic anemia 15.9%, positive ANA antibody 61.9%, positive anti-ds DNA antibody 52.4%. Acute cutaneous lupus and arthritis in SLE patients without the nephritis group were higher than in the LN group (p < 0.05). Anemia, lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, positive ANA, anti-ds DNA in the LN group were higher than SLE patients without nephritis (p < 0.05). SLE patients with LN had higher levels of NLR than those without nephritis. While PLR had no remarkable difference between these two groups. NLR was positively correlated with CRP, serum creatinine, and 24-hour urinary protein. PLR was positively correlated with the SLEDAI score. The best NLR to predict LN was 4.97 with a sensitivity of 51.2% and a specificity of 95.5% (AUC = 0.742, 95% CI, 0.617 - 0.866, p = 0.002). Conclusion: Most of the clinical
manifestations in SLE patients according to SLICC 2012 criteria were lupus nephritis, arthritis, and acute cutaneous lupus. PLR was positively correlated with the SLEDAI score. NLR could predict renal involvement in SLE patients.
Keywords: Lupus nephritis, ANA, anti-ds DNA, NLR, PLR.
Molecular characterization of alpha globin and beta globin genes in patients with hemoglobinopathies in Central Vietnam
Authors: Le Phan Tuong Quynh , Ha Thi Minh Thi , Tran Thi Nhu Nga , Le Phan Minh Triet , Ton That Minh Tri , Dong Si Sang , Phan Thi Thuy Hoa , Le Tuan Linh
Published: April 2023

Background: Hemoglobinopathy is the most common monogenic disease worldwide. The aims of the current study were: (1) to investigate some hematological characteristics of patients with hemoglobinopathies; and (2) to detect the mutation of α-globin and β-globin genes, as well as the association between genotype and degree of anemia. Materials and method: 251 patients with hemoglobinopathies were examined for the α-globin or β-globin gene mutations. Results: 51% were the carriers, and 49% were thalassemia intermedia or thalassemia major. Hematological characteristics were suitable for α-thalassemia or β-thalassemia. Elevenβ-globin gene mutations were observed. The β0/βA, βE/βA, βE/βE, βE/β+, β+/β+ genotypes were only found
in β-thalassemia intermedia individuals; the β0/β0 genotype was limited to β-thalassemia major patients; the β+/β0 and βE/β0 genotypes were seen in both types. Four α-globin gene mutations were observed. All α-thalassemia patients were intermedia, the most common genotype was --SEA/-α3.7. Conclusion: There were differences in anemia degree between β-globin genotypes
Key words: hemoglobinopathies, α-globin, β-globin.
National Neurotrauma Registry Data in Low- and Middle-Income Countries - Current Status and Future Requirements; Comment on "Neurotrauma Surveillance in National Registries of Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Scoping Review and Comparative Analysis of Data Dictionaries"
Authors: Lecky Fiona
Published: April 2023

Since 1990 National Trauma Registries, - taking the form of "not for profit" small and medium enterprises (SME) - have been integral to improvements in major injury case fatality in high income settings. This is laudable but unsatisfactory as globally most years of life lost to injury occur in low and middle income countries. IJHPHM recently published a scoping review of neurotrauma registries in low and middle income countries by Barthelemy et al; from this the commentary reflects on the state of the art and how these LMIC registries could be taken to "the next level" as meaningful tools for improving major injury patient care.
"Post"-pandemic Capitalism: Reform or Transform? Comment on "Ensuring Global Health Equity in a Post-pandemic Economy"
Authors: Waitzkin Howard
Published: April 2023

This commentary expresses appreciation for Professor Labonté’s work, along with some hopefully constructive suggestions. Professor Labonté’s editorial shows ambivalence about reforms within capitalism. Such reforms remain contradictory and unlikely to prevail. Transformation to post-capitalist political economies is an exciting focus of moving beyond the hurtful effects of capitalism. Can "the state… mitigate capitalism’s inherent inegalitarianism"? Problematically, government resides in the capitalist state, whose main purpose is to protect the capitalist economic system. The state’s contradictory characteristics manifest in inadequate measures to protect health, as during the COVID-19 pandemic. "Social determination," referring to illness-generating structures of power and finance, is replacing "social determinants," referring mainly to demographic variables. Problems warranting attention include: capitalist industrial agriculture causing pandemics through destruction of protective natural habitat, structural racism, sexism and social reproduction, social class structure linked to inequality, and expropriation of nature to accumulate capital. Transformation to post-capitalism involves creative construction of new solidarity economies, while creative destructions block smooth functioning of the capitalist system.
Clinical, radiological outcomes and pulmonary function tests in patients recovered from COVID-19 in a three-month follow-up
Authors: Raji Hanieh , Borsi Seyed Hamid , Mehraban Zahra , Azizi Moghadam Sahar
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Long-term pulmonary consequences of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are unknown. Objectives: The aim of this study was the clinical and radiologic consequences and pulmonary function test in the cured COVID-19 patients in a three-month follow-up. Patients and Methods: Patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection by a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay were recruited in this prospective descriptive epidemiological study. Computerized tomography (CT) scan and blood oxygen measurement were performed before and three months after discharge for all the patients. Spirometry test and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) were conducted to determine the levels of dyspnea and persistent respiratory symptoms. Results: Eighty patients were recruited in this study. At the 3-month follow-up, oxygen saturation was higher than the time of discharge from the hospital. Chest CT scan showed abnormal results in 66.3% of patients. The pulmonary function test results indicated that only 27 (35.75%) of patients had abnormal test. The median distance in the 6MWT was 325 meters (interquartile range, 96-480 m). Conclusion: Follow-up of COVID-19 patients revealed radiological abnormalities in most cured COVID-19 patients, indicating the need for more extended follow-up periods for investigating the long-term consequences of COVID-19.
Lactic acidosis associated with metformin in patients with diabetic kidney disease; a mini-review
Authors: Rahman Fatkhu , Tuba Syahrul
Published: April 2023

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolite disorder with parameters of high blood sugar levels. In the management of diabetes can be used the drug metformin is the gold of choice to achieve a therapeutic effect and rarely causes side effects of the drug, but it still has debate view. However, if used in excessive doses for patients with kidney disease, it will be contraindicated with side effects such as lactic acidosis. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the side effect of metformin for diabetic kidney disease (DKD) patients. Methods: This study used the Narrative Review Method that was obtained from 2011 to 2021, in the English language from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library. Results: Metformin is at the forefront of the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). Metformin is likely to have lactic acidosis-related adverse effects in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, such as increased arterial lactate. Lactic acidosis is defined as an increase in arterial lactate with an indicator of more than five mmol/L and an arterial blood pH of less than 7.35. Metformin-induced lactate levels are below the parameters. DKD risk factors can be conceptually classified as several susceptibility factors, initiation factors, and developmental factors. The two most prominent risk factors are hyperglycemia and hypertension. Conclusion: Metformin can increase lactate levels in CKD patients but is still below the parameters of lactic acidosis. This study may have some weaknesses and requires further prospective research to validate the results.
The relationship between fish consumption and rheumatoid arthritis; a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fakhri Moloud , Azadeh Hossein , Jokar Assie , Moosazadeh Mahmood , Fakheri Hafez , Ramezanpour Melina
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease with numerous side effects. Since long ago, the impact of fish consumption on treating this disease has been of researchers’ interest. Hence, this study aims to examine the relationship between fish consumption and the risk of rheumatoid arthritis through a systematic review and a meta-analysis method. Materials and Methods: For this meta-analysis to reach the research related to the case study, the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and the Google Scholar search engine were conducted. The data were analyzed using the STATA 14, and the significance level of the tests was P<0.05. Results: There were 2166980 people (20218 cases and 2146762 controls) in this case study, and the age range of the patients was between 18 and 89 years. The studies were published between 1991 and 2022 and estimated the odds ratio (OR) of fish consumption and rheumatoid arthritis as (OR=0.83; 95% CI: 0.78, 0.89). This measure was (OR=0.79; 95% CI: 0.72, 0.87) in six case-control studies and (OR=0.86; 95% CI: 0.78, 0.94) in 7 cohort studies. In addition, the effect of fish consumption on reducing the rheumatoid arthritis development was more in people who had consumed fish 2 or less than 2 times a week compared to people who consumed fish more than 2 times every week. Conclusion: Fish consumption reduces the rheumatoid arthritis extension; therefore, these patients are advised to include fish in their diet.
Investigating the expression of cytokeratin 5/6 in benign and malignant breast lesions
Authors: Rezaei Naserabad Seyed Abbas , Bagheri Shahram , Kheradmand Parvin , Latifi Seyed Mahmoud
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women, which is the second most common malignancy in terms of mortality and prevalence after lung cancer. BC is a group of very diverse diseases that can be detected at a molecular, histopathological and clinical level. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the expression of CK5/6 and its relationship to some of the factors affecting prognosis, such as tumor grade, lymph node involvement. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional study with descriptive and analytical aspects, 40 malignant and 20 benign tumors were collected in 2020 from the archives of the pathology department of two educational hospitals in the city of Ahvaz. The demographic and clinical characteristics of each specimen, including age, patient, lymphovascular and perineural invasion, lymph node involvement, tumor grade and tumor type were extracted from the patients’ record. Then the expression of CK5/6 intensity staining was examined by immunohistochemistry. Results: All benign breast lesions had positive expression for CK5/6 and staining intensity between six and nine. In the malignant group, 33 samples showed negative expression of CK5/6 and only seven samples (17.5%) showed positive expression with a low-staining index. A positive expression with a low-staining index. All seven positive specimens were invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) lesions with staining index 2, 4, and 6. Additionally, none of the ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) specimens which immunostained were positive for CK5/6. In the present study, all IDCs with weak expression of CK5/6 were grade III. No statistically significant relationship was observed between perineural and lymphovascular invasion and lymph node involvement with the intensity of CK5/6 expression. Conclusion: Our study showed that cytokeratin immunohistochemical intensity is able to distinguish benign lesions from malignant IDC and DCIS lesions and accordingly in determining of tumor grade after weak staining in high-grade IDC, which may be due to squamous metaplasia in these tumors; however, more extensive research with a larger sample size are required to assess its effect in lymphovascular and perineural invasion and also lymph node involvement.
Comparison of pregnancy outcomes and neonatal complications between COVID–19-vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnant women in Tabriz, Iran
Authors: Taghavi Simin , Dehdilani Mahnaz , Dehdilani Marjan
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Insufficient information exists regarding the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination safety in pregnant women. Objectives: The present study compared the pregnancy and fetal outcomes among COVID-19-vaccinated and unvaccinated pregnant women. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (Tabriz, Iran) on 117 pregnant women (55 vaccinated women as the case group and 62 unvaccinated women as the control group) using census sampling in 2022. The maternal outcomes (death, admission to intensive care unit [ICU], premature birth, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, oligohydramnios, and polyhydramnios) and neonatal outcomes (neonatal death, congenital disabilities, neonatal weight loss, admission to ICU, neonatal infection, neonatal fever, need for mechanical ventilation of the newborn, and one- and five-minute Apgar scores) were recorded. Then the two groups were compared using independent t-test, along with ANOVA and chi-square tests. Results: The number of women without pregnancy outcomes was marginally lower in the case group than in the control group (P=0.099). Gestational hypertension (P=0.312) and preterm birth were lower among unvaccinated women than among vaccinated women but this difference was not significant (P=0.089). Hospitalization in the neonatal intensive care unit (P=0.361), neonatal fever (P=0.259), and neonatal infection (P=0.079) were more common in infants born to vaccinated mothers than in infants born to unvaccinated women, although the difference not significant. Conclusion: Vaccination against COVID-19 appears to not be associated with an increased probability of maternal and neonatal complications.
Volkameria inermis: An overview of its chemical constituents and pharmacological properties, notably the amelioration of motor tics
Authors: Chan Eric Wei Chiang , Wong Siu Kuin , Chan Hung Tuck
Published: April 2023

This overview on Volkameria inermis (Lamiaceae) is the first in updating information on the chemical constituents and pharmacological properties of the species, notably on its unique ability in ameliorating motor tics. The information was procured from Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, PubMed Central, Science Direct, J-Stage, and PubChem. Previously named Clerodendrum inerme (Verbenaceae), V. inermis is a scrambling or scandent coastal shrub in the tropics and sub-tropics. From different parts of the plant, compounds such as flavonoids, diterpenes/diterpenoids, sterols, triterpenes/triterpenoids, iridoid glycosides, phenolic glycosides, phenylethanoid glycosides (PEGs), phenylpropanoid glycosides (PPGs), chalcones, and sesquiterpenes have been reported. Major pharmacological properties of V. inermis include anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, analgesic, and antibacterial activities. Other properties include anti-tyrosinase, antifungal, neuroprotective, hypotensive, hypoglycemic, amyloid-β aggregation, wound healing, antipyretic, and larvicidal activities. A unique pharmacological property of V. inermis leaf extract, discovered by scientists from Taiwan, is the amelioration of motor tic disorders, a spectrum of Tourette syndrome. This property included a case report, three in vivo studies, and one patent. Areas of further research of V. inermis are suggested.
Berberine efficacy against Doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity: A systematic review
Authors: Khaledifar Arsalan , Khosravi Farsani Mohammad Reza , Raeisi Elham
Published: April 2023

Cardiotoxicity is one of the main complications of chemotherapy that increases morbidity and mortality in cancerous patients. The present systematic review aimed to investigate the protective effects of berberine (Ber) on doxorubicin (Dox)-induced cardiotoxicity. The study protocol was developed following the PRISMA statement. An extensive search was performed in multiple databases, including Embase, PubMed, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and Scopus. After defining the inclusion/exclusion criteria of the study, 12 records were included. The desired data of the retrieved articles were extracted from the studies and imported into an Excel form and ultimately, the effects, probable outcomes and mechanisms were surveyed. By activating sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), Ber caused reduced oxidative damage and loss of mitochondria integrity in cardiomyocytes. It also regulated autophagy and apoptosis via down-regulating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine rich repeat, and pyrin domain containing protein (NLRP) activation. Moreover, Ber increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and plasma glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, reduced the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), up-regulated SIRT3, and subsequently reduced oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes and loss of mitochondria integrity, leading to developed apoptosis and regulating the histopathological and electrocardiogram changes in the myocardium. It also ameliorated the DOX-induced calcium ions (Ca2+) and iron overload. Ber reduced oxidant and inflammatory activity, and regulated apoptosis of cardiomyocytes, thus protecting the cells against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.
Phytoconstituent screening and in vitro hypoglycemic and antioxidant properties of terpenoid fraction of Kaempferia pulchra extracts in Indian traditional medicine
Authors: Kanaiyalal Solanki Himanshu , Ashish Dabhade Kalpana , Bupesh Giridharan , Arumugam Vijaya Anand , Visvanathan Periyasamy , Bhaskar Macha , Saravanan Konda Mani
Published: April 2023

Introduction: The current healthcare system is insufficient to deal with the global impact of rising diabetes, necessitating the development of better alternatives, such as plant-derived natural compounds, to improve glucose tolerance. Therefore, the present study evaluated the phytoconstituents of the aqueous leaf and rhizome extracts of an unnoticed plant species, Kaempferia pulchra. In addition, the in vitro anti-hyperglycemic efficacy and antioxidant activities of the derived terpenoid fraction from the plant extracts were also assessed. Methods: The aqueous extracts of K. pulchra leaves and rhizomes were screened for phytoconstituents using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Colorimetric techniques were used to determine the terpenoid fraction’s total phenolic and flavonoid content. Terpenoids’ in vitro antioxidant properties were examined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity (RSA) and ferric reducing power assay, proceeded by α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition tests, and anti-hyperglycemic potential was determined utilizing the terpenoid’s fraction. Results: The preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed that the terpenoids obtained from the leaf had the highest total phenol and flavonoid content. Both leaf and rhizome extracts had modest antioxidant capacities compared to ascorbic acid. Similarly, the rhizome extract had significantly higher α-amylase inhibitory activity than the standard acarbose (P < 0.05). Overall, the rhizome extract of K. pulchra outperformed the leaf extract in terms of antioxidant and antidiabetic potential. Conclusion: Kaempferia pulchra is a natural source of terpenoids with several therapeutic qualities, especially for managing diabetes. However, further research is needed to validate some of the claims ascribed to this plant.
Antibacterial and cytotoxicity of chitosan nanocomposite loaded with thymol against some cariogenic bacteria
Authors: Kordestani Matin , Rashidipour Marzieh , Mahmoudvand Hossein , Jalali Shoukofeh , Kooshki Fahimeh
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Tooth decay as the most common infectious-nutritional disease in the world. The current work aims to investigate the antibacterial effect of thymol-loaded chitosan nanocomposite (TLCN) against Streptococcus mutans and Actinomyces viscosus as the main cariogenic bacteria. Methods: Antibacterial activity of TLCN was assessed on S. mutans and A. viscosus. The effects on protein leakage in the tested bacteria, as well as its cytotoxicity, were studied by Bradford’s method and cell viability assay, respectively. Results: The size of the nanocomposite varied from 100 to 600 nm. The best minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) related to nanocomposite + chlorhexidine was reported 2.66 for both bacteria. TLCN dose-dependently increased the protein leakage (P < 0.05). The 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) of nanocomposite against on normal (HGF1-PI1) and cancer (KB) cells were 149.6 and 68.4 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusion: TLCN, especially in combination with chlorhexidine, displayed potent antibacterial effects against the main cariogenic bacterial causes. Nevertheless, other examinations are required to illuminate the precise mechanisms and its toxicity mainly in clinical settings.