bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengetahuan, Sikap, Supervisi, dan Motivasi Kader Dalam Upaya Penemuan Kasus Tuberkulosis Di Puskesmas Plupuh II
Authors: Nasution Ashri Muflihatus Sha’idah , Kholiq Aulya Ramadhanti Putri , Barnita Farras Intan , Pashalenko Maulana Hafiz , Rahmawati Nikki Faj , Novianti Ratu Astrid , Kuntari Titik , Cahyanti Dwi
Published: February 2024

Latar Belakang: Kabupaten Sragen menempati posisi 6 terendah dari 29 Kabupaten di Jawa Tengah dalam pencapaian penemuan kasus tuberkulosis (TB). Rerata temuan kasus di Puskesmas Plupuh II antara 8 hingga 10 kasus per bulan dari target 16 suspek TB per bulan, sehingga diperlukan adanya upaya penemuan kasus TB dengan optimalisasi kader TB. Pengetahuan, sikap, supervisi, dan motivasi menjadi unsur penting yang mempengaruhi kinerja kader TB.
Tujuan: Mengetahui tingkat pengetahuan, sikap, supervisi, dan motivasi kader TB dalam penemuan kasus TB di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Plupuh II.
Metode: Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif observasional dengan responden seluruh kader TB yang terdiri atas 20 orang. Data diperoleh dengan menggunakan kuesioner yang menggali karakteristik responden, lama masa kerja, pengetahuan, sikap, supervisi, dan motivasi dalam penemuan kasus TB. Analisis univariat disajikan dalam bentuk tabel distribusi frekuensi untuk memaparkan tingkat pengetahuan, sikap dan motivasi kader.
Hasil: Seluruh responden dalam penelitian adalah perempuan, didominasi oleh lulusan SMA/sederajat (50%), berusia lebih dari 40 tahun (60%), dan ibu rumah tangga (80%). Mayoritas lama masa kerja responden sebagai kader TB ≥6 bulan (55%). Sebagian besar kader memiliki tingkat pengetahuan baik (75%), sikap yang positif (80%), supervisi yang baik (80%, serta motivasi yang baik untuk menemukan kasus TB (90%).
Simpulan: Tingkat pengetahuan, sikap, supervisi, dan motivasi kader TB untuk menemukan kasus TB sebagian besar kader adalah baik. Meskipun demikian, upaya pemantauan dan pembinaan dari puskesmas, serta edukasi untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan dan sikap kader TB penting untuk terus dilakukan guna meningkatkan motivasi kader.
Kata Kunci: Tuberkulosis; Kader TB; Motivasi; Sikap; Supervisi
Neurocranial Pharmacodialysis Device for subarachnoid hemorrhage treatment—a perspective
Authors: Ludvig Nandor
Published: February 2024

The OBJECTIVE was to evaluate the clinical viability of the author’s pharmacodialysis device for the treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This neuroengineered system, implantable in the neurocranium, can perform subarachnoid drug delivery, edema drainage, neurotoxin dialysis, and electroencephalography (EEG) recording for years, hence its therapeutic potential in SAH as a Neurocranial Pharmacodialysis Device (NPD). The METHOD of the evaluation consisted of reexamining the related medical inventions, considering the experience with earlier device versions, and interpreting the context of relevant studies by other investigators. The RESULTS showed the following four facts: (1) high-grade SAH requiring decompressive craniectomy readily offers, as the last step of the neurosurgical procedure, the safe closure of the opened cranium with the NPD while leaving the efficacy of the decompressive intervention intact. (2) The neurocranially attached NPD can automatically execute, as long as it is necessary, subarachnoid polypharmacy to prevent post-SAH vasospasm, reduce the risk of rebleeding, and provide neuroprotection in delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), bypassing the blood-brain barrier (BBB) via connected subarachnoid strips. (3) These effects of drug delivery can be optimized with NPD-controlled long-term cleaning of the CSF and drainage of cellular debris, hydrocephalus, and interstitial edema accompanied by the subarachnoid dialysis of potentially neurotoxic extracellular molecules. (4) Safety and efficacy of these NPD operations are monitored, and possible epileptiform EEG is detected, via the wireless EEG system of the device. The CONCLUSION was that complementing conservative therapies with NPD implantation can reduce the current substantial mortality and morbidity among hospitalized survivors of SAH.
Integrating Modular Pipelines with End-to-End Learning: A Hybrid Approach for Robust and Reliable Autonomous Driving Systems
Authors: Rosero Luis Alberto , Gomes Iago Pachêco , Da Silva Júnior Anderson Rodrigues , Przewodowski Filho Carlos André Braile , Wolf Denis Fernando , Osório Fernando Santos
Published: February 2024

Autonomous driving navigation relies on diverse approaches, each with advantages and limitations depending on various factors. For HD maps, modular systems excel, while end-to-end methods dominate mapless scenarios. However, few leverage the strengths of both. This paper innovates by proposing a hybrid architecture that seamlessly integrates modular perception and control modules with data-driven path planning. This innovative design leverages the strengths of both approaches, enabling a clear understanding and debugging of individual components while simultaneously harnessing the learning power of end-to-end approaches. Our proposed architecture achieved 1st and 2nd place in the 2023 CARLA Autonomous Driving Challenge’s SENSORS and MAP tracks, respectively. These results demonstrate the architecture’s effectiveness in both map-based and mapless navigation.
Partial Alleviation of Homologous Superinfection Exclusion of SeMNPV Latently Infected Cells by G1 Phase Infection and G2/M Phase Arrest
Authors: Fu Qiming , Fang Zheng , Ren Lou , Wu Qingshan , Zhang Junbo , Liu Qiuping , Tan Leitao , Weng Qingbei
Published: February 2024

Viral infection can regulate the cell cycle, thereby promoting viral replication. Hijacking and altering the cell cycle are important for the virus to establish and maintain latent infection. Previously, Spodoptera exigua multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (SeMNPV) latently infected P8-Se301-C1 cells, which grew more slowly than Se301 cells and interfered with homologous SeMNNPV superinfection, were established. However, the effects of latent and superinfection with baculoviruses on cell cycle progression remain unknown. In this study, the cell cycle profiles of P8-Se301-C1 cells, and SeMNPV or Autographa californica mutiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) infected P8-Se301-C1 cells were characterized by flow cytometry. The results showed that replication-related genes MCM4, PCNA, and BAF were down-regulated (p < 0.05) in P8-Se301-C1 cells and the S phase of P8-Se301-C1 cells was longer than that of Se301 cells. P8-Se301-C1 cells infected with SeMNPV did not arrest in G2/M phase and or affect the expression of Cyclin B and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1). Furthermore, when P8-Se301-C1 cells were infected with SeMNPV after synchronized treatment with hydroxyurea and nocodazole, light microscopy and qRT-PCR analysis showed that compared with unsynchronized cells and S and G2/M phase cells, SeMNPV-infected P8-Se301-C1 cells in G1 phase induced G2/M phase arrest, and the amount of virus adsorption and intracellular viral DNA replication were significantly increased (p < 0.05). In addition, the BV production and the OB containing cells were both increased at 120 h post-infection (p < 0.05). The expression of Cyclin B and CDK1 was significantly down-regulated at 48 h post infection (p < 0.05). Finally, arrest of SeMNPV-infected G1 phase cells in the G2/M phase increased BV production (p < 0.05) and the number of OB containing cells. In conclusion, G1 phase infection and G2/M arrest are favorable to SeMNPV proliferation in P8-Se301-C1 cells, thereby alleviating the homologous superinfection exclusion. The results contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between baculoviruses and insect cell cycle progression regulation.
Topical Neuropeptide Y for Ischemic Skin Wounds
Authors: Stangerup Tais , Gjerdrum Lise Mette Rahbek , Bzorek Michael , Andersen Line , Heegaard Anne-Marie , Jorgensen Lars , Ågren Magnus S.
Published: February 2024

Our objective was to investigate the effects of topically applied neuropeptide Y (NPY) on ischemic wounds. Initially, the animal model for ischemic wound healing was validated using 16 male Sprague-Dawley albino rats. In the intervention study, an additional 28 rats were divided into three groups: NPY (0.025%), the positive control insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I, 0.0025%), and the hydrogel carrier alone (control). The hydrogel was selected due to its capacity to prolong NPY release (p < 0.001), as demonstrated in a Franz diffusion cell. In the animals, an 8-mm full-thickness wound was made in a pedunculated dorsal ischemic skin flap. Wounds were then treated and assessed for 14 days, and procured at the end of the experiment for in situ hybridization analysis (RNAscope®) targeting NPY receptor Y2R and for meticulous histologic examination. Wound healing rates, i.e. the percentage wound area changes, did not show an increase with NPY (p = 0.938) but did with rhIGF-I (p = 0.039) compared to the control. Y2R mRNA was not detected in the wounds or adjacent skin but was identified in the rat brain (positive control). Light microscopic examination revealed trends of increased angiogenesis and enhanced inflammatory cell infiltration with NPY compared to control. An interesting secondary discovery was the presence of melanophages in the wounds. Our findings suggest the potential of NPY to enhance neovascularization under ischemic wound healing conditions, but further optimization of the carrier and dosage is necessary. The mechanism is elusive but likely involves NPY receptor subtypes other than Y2R.
Bioaccumulation and Trophic Transfer of Soluble and Nanostructured Forms of a Commercial Antifouling Biocide
Authors: Campos Bruno Galvão de , Abessa Denis Moledo de Souza , Martins Roberto
Published: February 2024

After the ban on tributyltin-based antifouling paints, DCOIT (4,5-Dichloro-2-octylisothiazol-3(2H)-one) became one of the most used antifouling biocides. DCOIT is a pseudo-persistent contaminant in port areas and is toxic to non-target species, but its ability to bioaccumulate and be transferred along the trophic chain remains unknown. This study aimed to preliminarily investigate the bioaccumulation, trophic transfer, and biomagnification of DCOIT and SiNC-DCOIT (DCOIT immobilized in silica mesoporous nanocapsules) from the microalga Tetraselmis chuii to the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis during exposure experiments considering 24 h of uptake followed by 72 h depuration. Mussels rapidly internalized and metabolized both DCOIT and SiNC-DCOIT. The predator-prey biomagnification factors (BMFTL) suggested that both forms of the biocide can be trophically transferred, with higher concentrations of DCOIT and SiNC-DCOIT in mussels than in microalgae (BMFTL > 1). However, the bioaccumulation and bioconcentration factors indicated a low bioaccumulation capability in the short term, suggesting that the depuration rate overcomes the uptake. Our findings contribute to the development of environmental risk assessments for DCOIT and SiNC-DCOIT, but do not exclude the possibility of DCOIT bioaccumulation in the long-term in areas with constant input of DCOIT. Further studies are needed to understand these processes under continuous exposure scenarios to DCOIT.
Standardization of a Digital Model for the Management of Social Service in the Health Sector of Public Institutions.
Authors: JIMÉNEZ BÁEZ MARÍA VALERIA , SANDOVAL JURADO LUIS , CHAVEZ HERNANDEZ MARIA MARGARITA , ALCOCER NUÑEZ FRANCISCO JAVIER , DOMINGUEZ VARGUEZ CARLOS IVÁN
Published: February 2024

During the pandemic, educational digitization experienced a significant increase. In Mexico, social service is a crucial component of technical and professional training, a phase during which individuals apply the knowledge gained throughout their university education. The aim of this study is to standardize a digital model for the management of social service in the health care sector within health care units. This study employed an analytical, observational, retrospective, and longitudinal approach, involving two groups of trainees: Group A (n=133), utilizing a Non-Digital Model, and Group B (n=50), employing a Digital Model. In Stage I. the model design underwent validation through the Delphi method with a panel of three experts. The model was implemented on a Classroom® digital platform with the integration of the elements 1) a monthly rotation rubric 2) care services rubric 3) clinical cases or nursing process rubric, and 4) innovation project rubric. The validation of the model achieved 100% agreement (K=1). The variables measured for each group included the school of origin, career, unit of assignment, timely enrolment, and timely delivery of rubrics on the platform. The difference between the two groups was measured using Chi-Square. To measure the impact, the difference in the timeliness of the products was considered. From the University of Quintana Roo, the difference was 20.3 vs 34%. According to the Unit of Attachment the most frequent was HGR No. 17 with Group A at 22.5 vs 52%. According to the product the least delivered was Product 4, with 69% vs 81%. Timely enrollment was observed in Group A at 89% vs Group B at 80% p=0.001. Overall timely delivery in Group A was 81% vs Group B at 91% p=0.001 in the first 6 months post-implementation. Demonstrating that the implementation of the digital platform was effective, representing a significant advance in the adaptation of medical education to the circumstances imposed by the pandemic, highlighting the feasibility and effectiveness of digital teaching methods in the training of health professionals.
Seagrass Ecosystems of Tropical Islands As Bioindicator of Anthropogenic Trace Metal Contamination
Authors: Mishra Amrit Kumar , Mishra Anjalis , Dey Arindam , Rasheed Raihana , Kumari Dilmani , Mohakud Sandip Kumar , Farooq Syed Hilal
Published: February 2024

The bioindicator potential of seagrass ecosystems in coastal trace metal monitoring is low for tropical island ecosystems. This study evaluated the bioindicator potential of six seagrass species exposed to anthropogenic trace metal pollution in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI) of India. Sediment and seagrass biomass, samples were analyzed for trace metals (Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) from four locations of ANI exposed to anthropogenic contamination. Geo accumulation Index values indicated moderate trace metal contamination in seagrass sediment. Seagrass trace metal accumulation from sediment was both species-specific and location- specific for ANI. Small seagrass species such as H. ovalis, H. beccarii and H. uninervis accumulated the maximum concentration of six trace metals (Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn) in their tissues compared to big seagrass species like T. hemprichii and E. acoroides of ANI. This study indicates leaves of small seagrass and roots of big seagrass species can serve as short- and long-term bioindicators respectively, of coastal trace metal contamination in tropical islands of ANI.
Investigating training datasets of real and synthetic images for swimmer localisation with YOLO
Authors: Khan Mohammadi Mohsen , Schneidereit Toni , Mansouri Yarahmadi Ashkan , Breuß Michael
Published: February 2024

In this paper we develop and explore a methodical pipeline for swimmer localisation in outdoor environments. The developed framework is intended to be used for enhancing swimmer safety. A main issue we deal with by the proposed approach is the lack of real world training data in such outdoor environments. Natural lighting changes, dynamic water textures and possibly barely visible swimming persons are key elements to approach. We account for these difficulties by adopting an effective background removal technique with available training data. This allows us to edit swimmers into natural environment backgrounds for the use in subsequent image augmentation. We created 17 training datasets with real images, synthetic images and a mixture of both to investigate different aspects and characteristics of the proposed approach. The datasets are used to train a YOLO architecture for the possible future application in real-time detection. The trained framework is then tested and evaluated on outdoor environment imagery acquired by a safety drone to investigate and confirm the usefulness for outdoor swimmer localisation.
Performance Assessment of Presurgical Tests in Temporal Lobe Epileptic Patients
Authors: Pastor Jesús , Vega-Zelaya Lorena , Sola Rafael G. , Pulido Paloma
Published: February 2024

The performance of the presurgical test (preSurg) for temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) was evaluated via video-electroencephalography (VEEG), electroencephalography (EEG), 99mTc-HmPAO single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) and 1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a group of 112 men (37.0 ± 1.1 years) and 106 women (39.7 ± 1.1 years) operated on for TLE. The epileptic zone (EZ) was adequately identified to determine whether the patient reached an Engel I grade (EI) at least one year postop. Accuracy was evaluated by the coefficient α, ranging from 3 (when result = EZ) to 2 (result in the same hemisphere as the EZ), 1 (noninformative result) or 0 (EZ in the contralateral hemisphere). The simplicity of diagnosis was defined as the number of preSurg surgeries needed to identify the EZ. EI was obtained in 85.8% of patients even though 42.2% of patients had noninformative MRI results. For preSurg α was (mean ± SEM) = VEEG (2.83 ± 0.04) > MRI (2.14 ± 0.08) > EEG (1.87 ± 0.09) > SPECT (1.71 ± 0.09). The accuracy (combination of sensitivity and specificity) was calculated as follows: VEEG (0.797) > MRI (0.518) > EEG (0.446) > SPECT (0.360). The likelihood positive ratio was greater, and the likelihood negative ratio was lower for VEEG. The most relevant factor for the regression model was VEEG (3.106) > MRI (2.558) > EEG (1.905), and the factors were not significantly related to SPECT. EZs in EI patients with low simplicity were identified mainly by VEEG. A very good postoperative outcome can be obtained even in TLE patients with no lesions on MRI. The VEEG is the most reliable preSurg test and may be the only reliable test for patients with very low simplicity (i.e., difficult).single paragraph of about 200 words maximum. For research articles, abstracts should give a pertinent overview of the work. We strongly encourage authors to use the following style of structured abstracts, but without headings: (1) Background: Place the question addressed in a broad context and highlight the purpose of the study; (2) Methods: briefly describe the main methods or treatments applied; (3) Results: summarize the article’s main findings; (4) Conclusions: indicate the main conclusions or interpretations. The abstract should be an objective representation of the article and it must not contain results that are not presented and substantiated in the main text and should not exaggerate the main conclusions.
Early Postoperative Benefits in Receptive and Expressive Language Development After Cochlear Implantation Under 9 Months of Age in Comparison to Implantation at Later Ages
Authors: Lee Seung Jae , Oh Heonjeong , Shin Kyu Ha , Park Sung-Min , Kim Yun Kyeong , Jung Do Hyun , Yang Jiyeon , Chun Yejun , Kim Min Young , Han Jin Hee , Kim Ju Ang , Tran Ngoc-Trinh , Kim Bong Jik , Choi Byung Yoon
Published: February 2024

Objectives. The recent expansion of eligibility for cochlear implantation (CI) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to include infants as young as 9 months has reignited debates concerning the clinically appropriate cut-off age for pediatric CI. Our study compared the early postoperative trajectories of receptive and expressive language development in children who received CI before 9 months of age with those who received it between 9 and 12 months. This study involved a unique pediatric cohort with documented etiology, where the timing of CI was based on objective criteria and efforts were made to minimize the influence of parental socioeconomic status.Methods. A retrospective review of 98 pediatric implantees recruited at a tertiary referral center was conducted. The timing of CI was based on auditory and language criteria focused on the extent of delay corresponding to the bottom 1st percentile of language development among age-matched controls, with patients categorized into very early (CI at <9 months), early (CI at 9–12 months) and delayed (CI at 12–18 months) CI groups. Postoperative receptive/expressive language development was assessed using the Sequenced Language Scale for Infants receptive and expressive standardized scores and percentiles.Results. Only the very early CI group showed significant improvements in receptive language starting at 3 months post-CI, aligning with normal-hearing peers by 9 months and maintaining this level until age 2 years. During this period (<2 years), all improvements were more pronounced in receptive language than in expressive language.Conclusion. CI before 9 months of age significantly improved receptive language development compared to later CI, with improvements sustained at least up to the age of 2. This study supports the consideration of earlier CI, beyond pediatric Food and Drug Administration labeling criteria (>9 months), in children with profound deafness who have a clear deafness etiology and language development delays (<1st percentile).
МИРОВОЙ ОПЫТ ПРИМЕНЕНИЯ ТЕХНОЛОГИЙ ЦИРКУЛЯРНОЙ ЭКОНОМИКИ В ДЕЯТЕЛЬНОСТИ ХОЗЯЙСТВУЮЩИХ СУБЪЕКТОВ
Authors: Парахина Л. В. , Матвеев В. В.
Published: February 2024

В статье проанализированы мировые практики применения технологий циркулярной экономики в деятельности хозяйствующих субъектов. Особое внимание уделено философии устойчивого развития и ESG-защиты окружающей среды. Сделан вывод о необходимости адаптации накопленного опыта развития циркулярной экономики под особенности деятельности отдельного предприятия.
Tackling the US Opioid Crisis: Data-Driven Detection of Suspicious Retail Buyers
Authors: Seetharaman Seethu , Shi Annie , Sardella Anthony , Wall Michael , Abeyakaran Chenthuran
Published: February 2024

The opioid epidemic affects thousands of communities across the US. Recently, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) launched an aggressive effort to monitor drug diversion. Our objective in this research is to assist the DEA’s effort to stop opioid shipments from reaching those at risk. We propose an anomaly detection algorithm to identify suspicious retail buyers of opioids. We implement our algorithm on the ARCOS database -- which tracks all opioid drug shipments across the US from 2006 to 2012. Our algorithm effectively identifies suspicious retail pharmacies and practitioners involved in drug diversion. It achieves 100 % precision and 100 % sensitivity, resulting in 100 % F-1 score for retail pharmacies. For practitioners, while precision remains at 100 %, sensitivity is 30 %, leading to 46 % F-1 score. By applying our algorithm, the DEA gains a powerful tool for promptly detecting suspicious retail buyers. This enables prevention of large opioid shipments by identifying potentially negligent or criminal drug retailers early. By doing so, we can safeguard vulnerable communities and save lives by ensuring that dangerous drugs do not easily reach them.
Combined transarterial therapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Xu Yuyan , Cai Lei , Feng Jianan , Wen Yaohong , Tan Hongkun , Feng Zhoubin , Wang Chunming , He Guolin , Fu Shunjun , Tao Haisu , Yang Jian , Pan Mingxin
Published: February 2024

Patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) have poor long-term prognosis, necessitating alternative treatment modalities. We assessed the efficacy and safety of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with either transarterial chemoembolisation, hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy, or combined transcatheter arterial embolisation and hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy in patients with uHCC. The efficacy, represented by survival and tumour response, and tolerability, represented by adverse event frequency and severity, of the treatments were retrospectively evaluated for 119 patients with uHCC. Eighty-three patients received triple therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and either transarterial chemoembolisation or hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy, and 36 received quadruple therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, combined transcatheter arterial embolisation, and hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy. Patients who received quadruple therapy showed higher progression-free survival and overall survival than those who received triple therapy. The conversion rate to resectable hepatocellular carcinoma and the objective response rate of the quadruple therapy group was higher; however, the disease control rate showed no significant differences. The incidence and severity of adverse events were comparable between the quadruple and triple therapy groups. Quadruple therapy may improve survival prognosis compared with triple therapy without compromising safety in patients with uHCC.
Changing the food environment in secondary school canteens to promote healthy dietary choices: a qualitative study with school catering staff
Authors: Murphy Marie , Coffey Alice , Pallan Miranda , Oyebode Oyinlola
Published: February 2024

Background Typical adolescent diets do not meet current dietary recommendations. There is a need to address these dietary patterns to reduce the risk of obesity and other diet-related diseases. Schools provide an opportune setting to do so, as students consume a substantial proportion of their daily dietary intake whilst at school. There is a developing evidence base on the use of choice architecture (food choice cues) to promote healthy eating in school contexts. It is necessary to understand the acceptability and feasibility of implementing such interventions. We aimed to explore these implementation factors from the perspectives of secondary school caterers.Methods We conducted a qualitative study using video interviews, recruiting catering staff from secondary schools across the West Midlands, UK and national/regional catering representatives. A semi-structured topic guide and visual aid were used to guide interviews. We collected data on job role and employer. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Framework analysis was conducted in NVivo v12.Results 12 participants took part. Seven themes were identified and grouped into three categories: Acceptability (Suitability; Salient cues; Student engagement), Barriers (Catering decision drivers; Limits of influence), and Enablers (Perceived role; Opportunities). Caterers considered healthy food cues to be suited to adolescents as they require minimal reflective motivation. Salient cues included enhancing the visual appeal, positioning, and portability of healthy items, improving the dining environment and focusing pricing strategies on increased quantity. Student engagement was considered important. Some catering decision drivers conflicted with healthy eating strategies, and many felt that their role in healthy eating was limited due to the overwhelming influence external food environments, adolescent resistance, and for some, a perception that school food is already healthy enough. However, caterers appeared motivated to implement healthy food cues; and identified key opportunities for implementation.Conclusions Interventions using healthy food cues appeared acceptable to secondary school caterers, who are key potential implementers of these strategies. By exploring acceptability and feasibility of specific strategies, this research will help inform future approaches to school food interventions.
Recycling of incinerated sewage sludge ash and waste glass powder in alkali-activated slag/glass powders for sewer rehabilitation
Authors: Sun Keke , Ali Hafiz Asad , Cai Yamei , Xuan Dongxing , Poon Chi Sun
Published: February 2024

A new era has dawned in the manufacturing of cement-free binders with appropriate mechanical strengths and durability to combat CO2 emissions. However, the assessment of their performance in extreme conditions is ongoing. Here, we attempted to use incinerated sewage sludge ash (ISSA), a waste product of sewage sludge incineration that contains limited amounts of heavy metals, along with waste glass powder (GP) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), as precursors to produce cement-free binders through alkali-activation. The alkali-activated materials (AAMs) were then subjected to an intensified sewage corrosion test for 6 months. The aim was to utilize the heavy metals in the ISSA as biocides to resist the biogenic acid attack on the AAMs. The experimental results indicated that superior performance was achieved by using a ternary binder prepared with ISSA, GP, and GGBS under biogenic acid simulation. Such enhanced durability can be attributed to the low Ca content in the resulting alkali-activated gels, which also reduced the grain size of gypsum formed and prevented expansion deterioration. Furthermore, the slow release of heavy metals from the AAMs prepared with the ISSA, evidenced by the leaching test results, was able to inhibit microbial growth.
Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Vibrio cholerae isolates from cholera outbreak sites in Ethiopia
Authors: Bitew Abebaw , Gelaw Aschalew , Wondimeneh Yitayih , Ayenew Zelek , Getie Michael , Tafere Wudu , G/Hiwot Tsehay , Yimer Marechign , Beyene Getachew Tesfaye , Mihret Adane , Yeshitela Biruk , Teferi Mekonnen , Gelaw Baye
Published: February 2024

Background: Cholera is an acute infectious disease caused by ingestion of Vibrio cholerae (V. cholerae) with contaminated food or water. Cholera remains a global threat to public health and an indicator of inequity and lack of social development. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of V. cholerae from cholera outbreak sites in Ethiopia.
Methods: Across-sectional study was conducted atOromia National Regional State, Amhara National Regional State and Addis Ababa City Administration. A total of 415 fecal samples were collected from the three regions. Two milliliter fecal samples were collected from each study participants. Culture, biochemical and serological tests were performed to identify and characterize V. cholerae. In addition, antibiotic susceptibility test was done. Data were registered in epi-enfo version 7 and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence of Vibrio cholerae. Logistic regression model was fitted and p-value <0.05 was considered as statically significant.
Results: The prevalence of V. cholerae in the fecal samples was 30.1%. Majority of the isolates were from Oromia National Regional State 43.2 % (n=54) followed by Amhara National Regional State 31.2% (n=39) and Addis Ababa City Administration 25.6% (n=32). Most of the V. choleraeisolates were O1 serogroups 90.4% (n=113) and Ogawa serotypes 86.4% (n=108). Majority of the isolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacillin 100% (n=125), tetracycline 72% (n=90) and gentamycin 68% (n=85). More than half of the isolates were resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 62.4% (n=78) and ampicillin 56.8% (n=71). In this study, participants unable to read and write were about four times more at risk for V. cholerae infection (AOR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.07 - 13.33). In addition, drank river water were about three times more at risk for V. cholerae infection (AOR: 2.8, 95%CI: 1.08- 7.08).
Conclusion: The prevalence of V. cholerae from fecal samples was high. The predominant serogroups and serotypes were O1 and Ogawa, respectively. Majority of the isolates were susceptible to most of the antibiotics tested. Drinking water from river were the identified associated risk factor for V. cholerae infection. Protecting the community from drinking of river water and provision of safe and treated water could reduce cholera outbreaks in the study areas.
Trace metals concentration and risk assessment in the southeastern Mediterranean sediments
Authors: Hassaan Mohamed A. , Dardeer Amr G. , Nemr Ahmed El
Published: February 2024

Trace metals (Li, B, Na, Mg, Al, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Se, Sr, Ag, Cd, In, Ba, Hg, Pb, Bi) in surface sediments of the Nile Delta coastal area between Western Harbor and Bardaweel Lagoon were evaluated. The ecological risk assessment was evaluated by Contamination degree (Cd), Geoaccumulation Factor (Igeo), Enrichment Factor (EF), Contamination Factor (CF), Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Pollution Load Index (PLI). The EF values are in the sequence: Cr > Pb > Ni > Zn > Cu > Mn. The studied locations were unpolluted with Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn (Igeo ≤0) and the Cd (> 1.5). Significant correlations were reported between the concentrations of Mn, Fe, Cr, Co and Ni suggesting similar sources. The HQ indicate low values for children and 3–4 > adult values. Using principal component analysis (PCA), the sources of heavy metals were categorized.
Longer and more frequent marine heatwaves in the Western Baltic Sea
Authors: Pinto Guilherme , Möllmann Christian , Hinrichsen Hans-Harald , Lehmann Andreas , Quaas Martin , Voss Rudi
Published: February 2024

Marine heatwaves (MHW) are globally occurring events observed with potentially long-lasting ecological effects and socio-economic repercussions. The Western Baltic Sea (WBS) is a transitional region between the North Sea and the Baltic Proper characterized by a unique physical oceanography. Warming of the area in response to climate change is significant, but the temporal and spatial development of extreme temperature events is poorly understood and documented. Here, we analyzed retrospective runs performed by a 3D-hydrodynamic model over seven decades (1950-2022) to better understand MHWs in the WBS. Our analysis revealed rampant increases in extreme temperature events since the 1990s. MHWs occurred regularly in spring and summer, but increasingly as well in autumn and winter. We especially identified long-lasting extreme events at the surface (> 100 days) and at the bottom (> 400 days) that resembled the exceptional “Blob” phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean. We furthermore identified parts of the WBS that in addition to extreme temperatures suffered hypoxic conditions, a combination of pressures with potentially devastating ecological impacts. Our study advances the understanding of the climatic impact on a marine system that already suffers from eutrophication and overfishing, and provides baseline knowledge to understand physical forcing impacts on ecosystem functioning.
Low expression of SGCA promotes LUSC malignant progression
Authors: Chen Guojie , Mao Guangyao , Zong Xinyu , Zhang Qingfang , Ting Guo , Lin Mei
Published: February 2024

Objectives As a common pathological type of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) with high mortality lacks a desired diagnostic indicator and therapeutic target. This study is aimed to reveal low expression of Alpha-Sarcoglycan (SGCA) promotes LUSC progression to provide a biomarker for LUSC diagnosis, prognosis evaluation and targeted therapy. Methods The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and 70 LUSC patients in clinic were collected to assessed the correlation between SGCA expression and patients clinical data;in vitro, we examined the proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion of human LUSC H520 cells with overexpressed SGCA by transfecting pc-SGCA plasmids, comparing with that of the Ctrl group;in vivo, LUSC subcutaneous tumorigenic mouse mode was constructed to further explore the role of SGCA in LUSC. Results The analysis results of TCGA data indicate SGCA was significant in the diagnosis of LUSC and negatively correlated with T stage; The analysis results of the clinical data analysis suggest SGCA was negatively correlated with T stage, clinical stage, CYFRA21-1 and creatinine ; in vitro experiments validated low expression of SGCA enhanced the proliferation, invasion and migration ability, inhibited the cells apoptosis; in vivo experiments showed LUSC subcutaneous tumorigenic mouse model overexpression of SGCA inhibited the mice tumor growth. Conclusion SGCA has diagnostic significance in LUSC. Low expression of SGCA promotes proliferation, migration, invasion, and is closely associated with LUSC progression, and SCGA is thus proposed as a potential prognostic factor and therapeutical target for LUSC.
Exploring ageism and age norms among older adults in urban India
Authors: Sivaramakrishnan Divya , Subaiya Lekha , Vani B. P. , Grunberg Diana , Syamala T. S.
Published: February 2024

The UN Decade of Healthy Ageing plan of action has identified combating ageism and challenging negative and restrictive attitudes as a priority area. Ageism towards older people refers to negative constructions of old age, comprising of stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination, and age norms are expectations and social rules around age-appropriate behaviour. Ageism and age norms can adversely impact the physical and mental wellbeing of older people, and this study aims to explore ageism and age norms and their effects on health and wellbeing among older adults in India. The study adopted an exploratory qualitative research design. Online focus groups and interviews were conducted with 21 participants from urban Indian cities, and data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Themes relating to ageism and current norms experienced by older people in urban India were identified. Experiences of ageism stemmed from institutions, lack of consideration of social needs, intergenerational dynamics, and changing roles and identities in a rapidly evolving world. Age norms included societal expectations that older adults take up only certain activities, dress in a sombre way, and are constrained in how they behave. The study findings emphasise that older people are a diverse group with varied interests and hobbies who refute stereotypes, strongly endorsing the view that they are a complex, heterogenous group. Recommendations include investment into creating age-friendly cities, development and implementation of educational and intergenerational programmes, as well as initiatives to cater to the social needs of older people and policies targeting discrimination within financial and employment sectors.
Dust tracking and modeling in Southeast of Iran (Case study: Dust storm from December 16 to 20, 2016)
Authors: Sardoo Farshad Soleimani , krakauer Nir
Published: February 2024

Blowing dust is one of the most common natural phenomena in arid and semi-arid regions, which causes a lot of damage every time it occurs. This phenomenon is introduced as a natural hazard in terms of negative effects in natural and human-managed ecosystems, and it is one of the most important problems of ocieties in arid and semi-arid regions. In this research, in order to investigate and analyze this phenomenon, it was simulated by the WRF-Chem model, and MODIS satellite data and the HYSPLIT model were also used to investigate the mechanism of particle transport and its routing in the Jazmurian basin in the southeast of Iran. The results showed that the aerosol optical depth index is high in eastern Iran on December 16 to 20, and the particles originating from this part were mainly affected by the northern currents and moved to the south. Also, the results of the numerical simulation of the dust storm using the WRF-Chem model showed that the surface concentration values ​​of the output particles of the WRF_Chem model at UTC18 on December 17, 2016 in the south of Sistan and Baluchistan province and Hormozgan province were higher than 2500 micrograms per cubic meter. and in the central areas of Jazmurian region, the concentration of dust reaches more than 2000 micrograms per cubic meter.
Autophagy regulator ATG5 preserves cerebellar function by safeguarding its glycolytic activity
Authors: Kononenko Natalia , Tutas Janine , Tolve Marianna , Özer-Yildiz Ebru , Ickert Lotte , Klein Ines , Hosseini Mahan , Liebsch Filip , Dethloff Frederik , Giavalisco Patrick , Endepols Heike , Georgomanolis Theodoros , Neumaier Bernd , Drzezga Alexander , Daun Silvia , Schwarz Guenter , Thorens Bernard , Gatto Graziana , Frezza Christian
Published: February 2024

Dysfunctions in autophagy, a cellular mechanism for breaking down components within lysosomes, often lead to neurodegeneration. The specific mechanisms underlying neuronal vulnerability to autophagy dysfunction remain elusive. Here, we show that autophagy contributes to the survival of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) by safeguarding their glycolytic activity. This function of autophagy is independent of its conventional housekeeping role and involves ATG5-mediated regulation of glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) levels during cerebellar maturation. Autophagy-deficient PCs exhibit GLUT2 accumulation on the plasma membrane, along with increased glucose uptake and accelerated glycolysis. We identify lysophosphatidic acid and serine as glycolytic intermediates that trigger PC death and demonstrate that deletion of GLUT2 in ATG5-deficient mice mitigates PC neurodegeneration and restores their ataxic gait. Taken together, this work reveals a novel mechanism for regulating GLUT2 levels in neurons and provides new insights into the neuroprotective role of autophagy by controlling glucose homeostasis in the brain.
Partial Purification and Characterization of Pectinase From Actinomycete : Nocardiopsis Dasnonivelli Isolated From Marine Samples
Authors: Suman Vaddadi , Yugandhar N. M
Published: February 2024

Biocatalysis, one of the oldest technologies, is becoming a favorable alternative to chemical processes and a vital part of green technology. This study was to purification and characterization of the pectinase. The extracted enzyme was subjected to partial purification which include ammonium sulphate precipitation, dialysis, sephadex G-100 column chromatography. The cell free supernatant pectinase activity was found to be in the 20% salt saturation fraction. Enzyme activity of pectinase increased from 75.9 ± 0.15U/mL to 81.08 ± 1.06 U/mL at 20% salt saturation fraction. As a result, the 20% ammonium sulphate fraction of crude enzyme extract was further analysed for purification of potential pectinase. Pectinase from the 20% ammonium sulphate crude enzyme fraction was purified by using sephadex-G-100 gel chromatography. From these results, the purified pectinase exhibited 85.83 ± 16 U/ml of enzyme activity. It was observed that the purification of pectinase by sephadex-G-100 gel chromatography increased its activity by 11.51%. The purified pectinase when subjected to SDS PAGE appeared as a single homogenous band with a molecular weight of 40 kDa. Partially purified enzyme was characterized, the enzyme was stable 50C upto 80 min at pH 9. Later the purified 40KDa protein spot of Nocardiopsis dassonvillei S10 was identified as pectinase by Peptide mass fingerprinting. PMF results of the protein spot was matched with Bacillus subtilis Mutant which is having highest score i.e. 63.4.Protein 3D structure models were predicted and validated by the Ramchandran plot assessment and the functional prediction was done by I-TASSER server.
Sandy beaches contribution to the ocean silicon cycle: a reassessment of the global Si budget
Authors: Aparicio Marius , Bihan Antoine Le , Jeandel Catherine , Fabre Sebastien , Almar Rafael , Mingo Ivana Maiten
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the effect of energy dissipation induced by wave breaking on silica dissolution rate. For this purpose,
an experimental protocol was set up to simulate an artificial sandy beach composed entirely of pure α-quartz under stirred
conditions due to constant wave breaking. The concentrations obtained suggest a significant increase in dissolution rate and
highlight the impact of wave action on the latter. Up-scaling laboratory flux to the worldwide sandy coastlines led to a detailed description on how, depending on sea surface temperature and wave power, beaches from different parts of the globe play a respective role in an integrated input estimated to be as strong as the one from rivers (FBeaches = 8.4 ± 3.0 Tmol Si y−1 ). The results enhance the one previously proposed and further strengthen the hypothesis of an overlooked silicon input to the ocean due to sandy beaches. This newly established contribution to the silicon cycle has led to a reassessment of the silica budget by subjecting it to a Monte Carlo analysis, suggesting that the steady state hypothesis commonly accepted until now stands on less solid ground than previously accepted.
Platelet count has a nonlinear association with 30-day in-hospital mortality in ICU End- stage kidney disease patients: a multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhou Pan , Xiao Jian-hui , Li Yun , Zhou Li , Deng Zhe
Published: February 2024

Background: This study addresses the relationship between platelet count and 30-day in-hospital mortality in End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESRD) patients in the intensive care unit (ICU), a topic with limited existing evidence.
Methods: Utilizing data from the US eICU-CRD v2.0 database (2014-2015), a retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 3700 ICU ESRD patients. We employed binary logistic regression, smooth curve fitting, and subgroup analyses to explore the association between platelet count and 30-day in-hospital mortality.
Results: The 30-day in-hospital mortality rate was 13.27% (491/3700), with a median platelet count of 188×109/L. After adjusting for covariates, we observed an inverse relationship between platelet count and 30-day in-hospital mortality (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97, 0.99). Subgroup analyses supported these findings, particularly in non-diabetic patients (P for interaction 0.0002). Additionally, a nonlinear association surfaced, revealing an inflection point at 222×109/L. The effect sizes (OR) on the left and right sides of the inflection point were 0.94 (0.92, 0.96) and 1.03 (1.00, 1.05), respectively.
Conclusion: This study identified a curved relationship between platelet count and 30-day in-hospital mortality rate in ICU ESRD patients. The saturation effect suggests that maintaining a platelet count around 222×109/L can reduce the in-hospital mortality rate of these patients for 30 days.
Association of hemoglobin level trajectories with clinical outcomes in patients with sepsis or shock: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Huang Jingjing , Zou Dengxiu , Wang Quan , Liu Yuchen , Zhang Kexin , Sheng Xiaoxuan , Liu Shiya , Huang Sufang
Published: February 2024

Background
Sepsis has a high incidence and mortality rate and is an important global public health problem. Anemia as one of the common complications of sepsis, a single-point value of hemoglobin cannot provide enough information. This study aimed to investigate the impact of hemoglobin latent trajectories on clinical outcomes in septic patients.
Method
Patients diagnosed with sepsis and who stayed in the ICU for more than 3 days were included in the medical big data platform, and those with continuous hemoglobin data were selected. Patients with hemorrhagic diseases and chronic consumptive diseases that affect hemoglobin were excluded. The latent growth mixed model was used to identify the latent trajectories of hemoglobin, and multivariate forward stepwise Cox regression was used to evaluate the relationship between hemoglobin trajectories and clinical outcomes (in-hospital mortality and organ dysfunction).
Results
A total of 811 patients ultimately met the inclusion criteria, and after latent growth mixed model (LGMM) analysis, optimal 3 potential Hb trajectories were detected. 441 (54.4%), 281 (34.7%), and 89 (10.9%) patients were identified as having flat decreasing, low, and rapidly decreasing Hb, respectively. Compared with flat decreasing Hb, low Hb was associated with increased hospital mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 2.44, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.03–2.92], organ dysfunction (HR 3.02, 95% CI 2.57–3.53), and rapid decreasing FB was significantly associated with hospital mortality (HR 3.45, 95% CI 2.48–4.80) and organ failure (HR5.45, 95%CI 4.09–7.24), after adjustment for potential covariates.
Conclusion
The latent hemoglobin trajectories were associated with clinical outcomes in sepsis patients. Patients with persistently low hemoglobin levels had increased risks of in-hospital mortality and organ dysfunction, and patients with rapid decline of hemoglobin levels had significantly higher risks.