bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RESÍDUOS SÓLIDOS E O DISTANCIAMENTO SOCIAL OCASIONADO PELA PANDEMIA DA COVID-19: UM BREVE PANORAMA SOCIOAMBIENTAL E UM ESTUDO DE CASO DO MUNICÍPIO DO RIO DE JANEIRO
Authors: Silva Melanie Lopes da , Cocchiarelli Sara dos Santos Barreto , Castro Rebeca de Oliveira , Araújo Fábio Vieira de
Published: October 2024

As medidas restritivas de circulação de pessoas ocasionadas pela pandemia da COVID-19 fez com que parte da população permanecesse em casa, diminuindo o fluxo de pessoas nas ruas. Para compreender a influência das mudanças de comportamento da população na geração de resí­duos sólidos, a presente pesquisa objetivou reunir informações sobre produção e descarte de resí­duos sólidos durante o distanciamento social a fim de verificar se houveram mudanças nos hábitos de consumo de produtos e descarte de resí­duos. A pesquisa foi elaborada a partir de revisão bibliográfica e uma sondagem de público sobre o comportamento da população em relação aos resí­duos sólidos em plataforma digital. Os dados coletados mostram que o serviço de delivery aumentou após o iní­cio do distanciamento social, bem como a demanda por embalagens descartáveis, especialmente as de plástico. Por outro lado, aumentou a competitividade entre os trabalhadores do ramo de delivery e houve piora nas condições de trabalho. O volume de resí­duos sólidos em áreas urbanas e nas praias diminuiu, enquanto o volume de resí­duos enviados para a coleta seletiva aumentou. Neste perí­odo, novos tipos de resí­duos passaram a ser vistos em ruas e praias, máscaras e luvas descartáveis. Conclui-se que este é um momento importante para a sociedade e os entes públicos tratarem do consumo e descarte de resí­duos sólidos a fim de não agravar ainda mais os problemas relacionados aos resí­duos; os hábitos individuais são importantes e todos devem buscar melhorar o  comportamento  em  relação  ao meio ambiente, no entanto, uma mudança significativa e duradoura deve contar com o poder público, indústria e o comércio, que regem os comportamentos da população. A polí­tica deve ser um instrumento de transformação e melhoria social, devendo os cidadãos atuarem sujeitos ativos, capazes de questionar e propor mudanças.
EXTRAÇÃO MINERAL DE CAULIM: LEGISLAÇÃO, PROCESSO PRODUTIVO E IMPACTOS AMBIENTAIS
Authors: Silva Edmar do Nascimento , Soares Ilton Araújo
Published: October 2024

Este artigo teve como objetivo analisar os aspectos legais e identificar os principais impactos ambientais adversos da atividade mineradora de caulim. A pesquisa foi realizada no municí­pio de Junco do Seridó, localizado no estado da Paraí­ba. Inicialmente, por meio de uma revisão bibliográfica, buscou-se conhecer conceitos importantes relacionados a impactos ambientais. Em seguida foi realizada uma consulta í s Leis e Decretos em vigor no Brasil que regem a atividade econômica mineral e comparada com a realidade existente na área de estudo, através de buscas processuais das empresas atuantes no municí­pio, realizadas no site da Agência Nacional de Mineração. A pesquisa evidenciou a discrepância entre a rigorosidade da legislação vigente e a realidade existente na exploração mineral de caulim no municí­pio de Junco do Seridó, visto que a maioria das empresas não tem licença ambiental. Foram identificados os seguintes impactos ambientais adversos: degradação da paisagem, poluição do ar, erosão e contaminação do solo e redução da biodiversidade local. Em relação ao processo de produção, observaram-se algumas práticas benéficas que estão sendo adotadas pelas empresas, como a substituição dos fornos de lenha pelos secadores a céu aberto e o reaproveitamento de toda água utilizada no beneficiamento do caulim. O único rejeito produzido e que é um passivo ambiental preocupante é o rejeito mineral que fica a disposição em montes próximos í s unidades de beneficiamento e seus territórios de exploração. Por fim, para mitigação dos impactos identificados torna-se necessário o licenciamento ambiental das empresas de mineração e a elaboração e execução de planos de monitoramento e recuperação de áreas degradadas.
Multiplication and adaptation of BLRI Napier-3 fodder at farmer’s level
Authors: Alam Ummeya Shiha , Hossain Al-amin , Hasan Md Shamim , Hossain Md Tareq , Ali Md Hossen , Ali Md Yousuf
Published: October 2024

In Bangladesh, feed costs account for 70% of dairy farming expenses. High-yielding fodder (HYF) varieties, such as the Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI) developed Napier variety 3 (BN-3), offer significant potential for reducing these costs. This study conducted two agronomical trials, one on-station at the Experimental Plot of BLRI, Regional Station, Baghabari, Shahjadpur, Sirajganj, and one on-farm at the Experimental Plot in the village of Tiar Bondor shahjadpur, Sirajganj during the economic year of 2018-2019. The objectives of this study were to assess the production performance and proximate composition of BN-3 at both the on-station and farmer community levels. Each trial plot measured (20×10) square feet and was prepared according to BLRI's fodder cultivation guidelines. Data from five consecutive harvests over approximately one year were collected and analyzed using SPSS 17.0 software. Results indicated a higher fresh biomass yield was (57.66±4.68 tons/ha/harvest) at on-station compared to the farmer community level (54.89±1.20 tons/ha/harvest), though the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). On-station trial also showed superior tiller numbers (30.72±4.27 per hill) and stem perimeter (6.68±0.06 cm). Leaf length and plant height were significantly better (P<0.05) at on station trial. The nutrient composition of BN-3 exhibited non-significant variations between on-station and on-farm conditions. These findings suggest that, while on-station cultivation of BN-3 may provide slight advantages in specific growth parameters, its nutrient composition remains consistent across different farming conditions, highlighting its potential as a cost-effective feed option for Bangladeshi dairy farmers.
Asian Australas. J. Biosci. Biotechnol. 2024, 9(3), 27-32
Achieving United Nations Millennium Development Goals by 2015: A Comparative Performance Assessment of Bangladesh and Peru
Authors: Saleh Ahmed  , Juan Manuel Pantoja Ypanaque
Published: October 2024

Education is society’s main instrument for reproducing itself and a compelling ingredient for lasting meaningful socio-economic change. Therefore, at the beginning of new millennium, when the United Nations Member States were trying to reach a global consensus on sustainability and development, issues related to universal primary education was a rational choice for them. This paper compares the status quo of this issue between Bangladesh and Peru, where ‘development’ takes place in reality. The increase of universal primary school enrolment is closely related to the national and international spending on education sector for these countries and in addition to this, issues like population growth and spatial poverty traps also put increased pressure on the resources allocation to education. Mostly based on secondary research (e.g. consultation of literature and analysis of indicators on World Development, United Nations Millennium Development Goals and United Nations Children’s Fund Data), this paper highlights the macro level comparative scenario and challenges that these two countries may face in their efforts to achieving universal primary education enrolment targets as part of their UNMDG’s commitments by 2015.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 3, Dec 2010, pp. 77-88
Analyzing the Proposals of FAP 8B Project of Dhaka and Present Context of Retention Pond Areas and Canals
Authors: Bivash Das  , Ishrat Islam
Published: October 2024

After the devastating flood of 1988, the government adopted a program under FAP-8B to protect Dhaka city from flooding. It included two-part coordinated action plan, namely FAP-8A & FAP-8B. The project “FAP-8B” covered 136.5 sq. km of western part of Dhaka and the primary objective was to provide a relatively flood free and secured living environment. Proposals of FAP-8B focused on construction of retention ponds with pumping facilities and rehabilitation of 21 major natural canals having a total length of 78.6 km. The FAP-8B project started in 1991 and completed by 1997. This paper studied the land use changes within the designated retention pond areas and canals in the FAP-8B area through interpretation of satellite images and data on physical features. The study used satellite images of the years 1989, 1999, 2004, 2007, RS (Revenue Survey) maps and land use maps of Detailed Area Plan (DAP). Findings of the study revealed that proposed 4.5% retention pond areas of FAP-8B has been encroached by various land use activities and at present only 1.79% retention pond areas are left. Encroachments of natural canals are also alarming. It is found that 34% area of 13 natural canals has been filled up by developers, private individuals and others. Between 1989 and 2007, area of wetland was reduced from 22.15% to 12.17% in the west Dhaka. The results suggest that without government intervention to save the remaining retention areas and canals, it would be difficult to uphold the flood control functions of FAP-8B project.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 3, Dec 2010, pp. 89-102
Role of Growth Center: A Rural Development Perspective
Authors: Biplob Kanti Mondal  , Kausik Das
Published: October 2024

This paper incorporated the upshot of growth centre for economic & social development of rural Bangladesh. An attempt has been made to expose the changes in social life as well as in physical development of the area after built up the Growth centre. In recent years the purchasing intensity of various sector’s (agriculture, fisheries etc.) input increased very fast. Thus, the more increase in the numbers of buyers in these markets, more will be the trade volume and turn over which perpetuate local development. But these rural markets are beset with many problems which are mostly associated with infrastructure. Growth centers with better infrastructure facilities are likely to play a wider role in the rural economy & development. It has been seen that provision of infrastructure in rural markets actually paves the way for employment generation and contributes to increasing number of traders and market turnover.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 3, Dec 2010, pp. 129-141
An Approach to Identify the Regional Imbalances of Socio Economic Facilities: A Case Study of Narsingdi District
Authors: Zannat Md Esraz Ul , Mortoja Md Golam
Published: October 2024

Socio-economic facilities play an important role in the development of regions and affect the maintenance and reinforcement of people’s activity. Similar with the common scenario of most of the districts in Bangladesh, the distribution of socio-economic facilities in Narsingdi district is concentrated disproportionately rather than to an equitable and uniform manner. A detailed analysis and investigation has been carried out to determine the regional imbalances in distribution pattern of some socio-economic facilities among different Upazilas of the study area using different statistical methods and Geographic Information Tools. This study also examines the concentration pattern of socio-economic facilities and examined some possible factors liable behind the concentration of those facilities in some particular Upazilas. Based on the outcome of the study, finally some policies and strategies have been provided for upgrading the distribution pattern of socioeconomic facilities.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 3, Dec 2010, pp. 143-152
Clinical and Genetic Characteristics of Patients with Peripheral Retinal Flecks in Koreans
Authors: Lim Hun Young , Joo Kwangsic
Published: October 2024

Purpose: To describe the clinical and genetic features of Korean patients with peripheral retinal flecks unrelated to aging.Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical characteristics of patients with symmetric peripheral retinal flecks. Age-related deposits such as reticular pseudodrusen were excluded, as well as secondary deposits related to intraocular inflammation, tumor, and drug toxicity. Multimodal imaging, electrophysiological examinations, and genetic testing were analyzed.Results: A total of 10 patients (two men and eight women) with bilateral peripheral flecks were enrolled in this study. A mean age at diagnosis was 30.5 ± 19.6 years (range, 4–59 years). Within the 10 patients, six were genetically confirmed with monogenic retinal disorders. Biallelic pathogenic variants in RDH5 were found in five patients, and one patient was diagnosed with retinopathy related to Alport syndrome due to a pathogenic variant in COL4A5. Although not genetically confirmed, one case associated with nanophthalmos and another case showing chorioretinal mottling in a carrier of ocular albinism have been identified. In one patient, genetic testing also revealed unknown causes. The mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution initial visual acuity was 0.12 ± 0.18 and 0.07 ± 0.18 in right and left eyes, respectively. Night blindness was reported by four patients (40%), with three showing decreased or delayed rod response in electroretinogram, particularly those with RDH5 mutations. Differences in the deposit layers and the patterns of flecks were observed on multimodal imaging.Conclusions: In the study population, we observed various causes and clinical differences in the retinal fleck patterns among Koreans, including RDH5-related fundus albipunctatus and Alport syndrome. Despite reports of night blindness symptoms in some cases, all patients demonstrated satisfactory corrected visual acuity.
SCIENTIFIC VIEWS ON THE SYSTEM OF SEPARATE DETENTION OF PERSONS SENTENCED TO IMPRISONMENT
Authors: Savushkin Sergey
Published: October 2024

The differentiation of persons sentenced to imprisonment and the rules for their separate detention in various types of correctional institutions are based on the norms of criminal and penal legislation. Additional aspects of separate detention are regulated by the orders of the FPS of Russia, the instructions of the administration of the correctional institution. The issues of separate detention of persons sentenced to imprisonment are becoming particularly relevant in the reform of the penal system. The article examines the various positions of scientists regarding the stated problem.
Heterogeneity of Inflammatory Processes and Pathways Driving Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Pathology
Authors: International Meetings and Science (IMsci)
Published: October 2024

Two symposia occurred during the European Respiratory Society (ERS)
Congress 2024, highlighting the heterogeneity in chronic inflammatory pathways that
underlie chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathophysiology. In 'A Breath
of Fresh Air: A Greater Understanding of COPD With Type 2 Inflammation', Henrik
Watz (Chair), German Center for Lung Research, Grosshansdorf, Germany, provided
an overview of both the pathophysiology and the burden of disease of COPD. He
discussed how exacerbations, which may be increased in those with evidence of Type 2
inflammation, contribute to the cycle of worsening COPD. Mona Bafadhel, King’s College
London, UK, provided an examination of the mechanisms and biomarkers of Type 2
inflammation in COPD. Finally, Alberto Papi, University of Ferrara, Italy, summarised the
latest research on biological treatments targeting Type 2 inflammation in COPD. The
second symposium, 'Targeting interleukin-33 (IL-33) in COPD: Exploring New Frontiers
for COPD Management', discussed inflammation in COPD, focusing on the central role
of IL-33 as a mediator for both Type 2 and Type 1/Type 3 inflammation. Klaus Rabe
(Chair), LungenClinic, Grosshansdorf, Germany, reviewed the structure and function of
IL-33 and its initial processes that lead to downstream immune responses. Stephanie
Christenson, University of California, San Francisco, USA, explored how genetic and
environmental factors contribute to IL-33 activity in COPD pathology. Next, Paola
Rogliani, University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’, Italy, presented an examination of IL-33
inflammatory processes and evidence from COPD animal models illustrating the role of
IL-33 in airway inflammation and lung function decline. Klaus Rabe concluded with an
examination of IL-33 as a target for new COPD treatment approaches.
Prioritising Patients and Planet: Advocating for Change in Respiratory Care
Authors: Moir Hannah
Published: October 2024

The global burden of respiratory diseases, particularly asthma and chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), continues unabated. Suboptimal management
places a significant strain on both patients and urgent or emergency care services. With
an ageing population in many countries, the demand for these services is set to increase
further. At the same time, healthcare systems are striving to reduce their carbon footprint
and achieve net zero emissions, as the healthcare sector is a significant contributor to
carbon emissions worldwide. Although these two goals may appear contradictory, they
need not be in conflict.
This article reviews an industry-sponsored symposium held at the European Respiratory
Society (ERS) Congress 2024 in Vienna, Austria, in September 2024. The session
addressed the urgent need to change the delivery model for respiratory healthcare in
response to the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases and the challenges posed
by climate change.
Co-chair John Hurst, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at University College London
(UCL), UK, underscored the importance of innovative solutions for managing respiratory
diseases and highlighted the challenges faced by healthcare decision-makers. This was
further elaborated on by Omar Usmani, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at Imperial
College London, UK, who emphasised the importance of clinical choice. He stated that
inhaled medicines, which form the cornerstone of treatment, should not be considered
interchangeable. He also discussed ongoing efforts to maintain access to essential
medicines by developing novel next-generation propellants (NGP) for pressurised
metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) devices, which will reduce their carbon footprint to levels
comparable with dry powder inhalers (DPI). Additionally, he described the European
Chemicals Agency (ECHA) proposal to restrict a broad range of chemicals classed as
per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This precautionary measure would affect
both current propellants in pMDIs and the transition to NGPs, with global implications for
inhaled medicines.
Erika Penz, Associate Professor of Respirology, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine at the
University of Saskatchewan, Canada, noted that suboptimal management of respiratory
disease is associated with a disproportionately high burden on both patients and the
environment. The forthcoming availability of pMDI medicines with NGPs alone will not
resolve this larger issue. As every healthcare interaction carries a carbon footprint, which
increases with the intensity of treatment, the implementation of guidelines into clinical
practice would improve patient outcomes and reduce the demand on healthcare services
and the associated carbon emissions.
Co-chair Helen Reddel, Clinical Professor and Research Leader at the Woolcock Institute
of Medical Research, Australia, concluded by re-emphasising the urgent need to
implement guidelines immediately for the benefit of both patients and the environment.
Abstract Highlights
Authors: EMJ
Published: October 2024

The following abstract highlights spotlight selected abstracts
presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress
2024. They cover key topics, including lung cancer screening
and management, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
cystic fibrosis, effects of smoking on airway inflammation,
and the role of biologic therapy in asthma. These highlights
showcase the latest cutting-edge developments and most
talked-about topics in the field today.
To Civilise What We Inherit: Isabelle Stengers ‘Thinking with’ Gilles Deleuze
Authors: Maxwell Grant
Published: October 2024

Hundreds of books have been written about Deleuze, but although many prominent philosophers and schools of philosophy have inherited from him, no single philosopher has emerged as the primary inheritor of Deleuze’s project. The Belgian philosopher Isabelle Stengers could serve as one conceptual persona among others playing such a role. Stengers refers to Deleuze in all but one of her fourteen books which have so far been translated into English, especially in The Invention of Modern Science, Cosmopolitics and Thinking with Whitehead, and this article ‘thinks with’ Stengers as she thinks with Deleuze through most of her references to his work over four decades.
Deleuze and Foucault's Virtual Ontology of the Event
Authors: Penfield Christopher
Published: October 2024

Deleuze's monograph on Foucault is often construed as a ‘metaphysical fiction’ (Frédéric Gros), which would attribute to Foucault a metaphysics of Deleuze's own issue. Notably, Paul Patton has argued that Deleuze thereby deeply mischaracterises Foucault's concepts of actuality, history, power and philosophy itself. Against this view, I argue that Deleuze's interpretation in Foucault clarifies the virtual force ontology that the two thinkers effectively developed in common. This ontological framework not only resolves Patton's specific objections; it also outlines a philosophy of the event demonstrating the conceptual consistency between Foucault and Deleuze on fundamental questions of philosophical critique and political agency.
Unleashing the Future: Deleuze's Crystals of Time and Theo Angelopoulos's The Travelling Players
Authors: Retsikas Konstantinos
Published: October 2024

This article discusses The Travelling Players (1975), Theo Angelopoulos's provocative film, by upholding the priority the director's audio-visual images assign to the future as what Deleuze calls ‘the pure and empty form of time’. It also argues that The Travelling Players supplements the Deleuzian quartet of crystal-images with a new type of crystal-image: Angelopoulos crafts images of extraordinary consistency that act as filters, splitting and sieving time at once, a kind of audio-visual refinery laid out on the silver screen, with the distillation process dedicated to blocking repression, its past and present iterations, from contaminating the yet-to-come, banishing the negative from returning in the future.
Hubungan Motivasi dan Dukungan Keluarga dalam Pengendalian Hipertensi dengan Tekanan Darah pada Pasien Hipertensi
Authors: Peronika Feny , Efitra Efitra , Rachmadanur N.
Published: October 2024

Hypertension is a non-communicable disease which is the main factor causing various diseases such as stroke, heart and kidney. Based on data from the Andalas Health Center, it was found that there were 203 hypertension patients in April 2023. A survey conducted on hypertensive patients aged 40-60 years found 4 people with uncontrolled blood pressure (> 140/80 mmHg) and 2 people with controlled blood pressure (≤140/80 mmHg), 4 people who still consume fatty foods regularly excessive daily and 2 respondents who have reduced consumption of fatty foods, 4 people who consume excessive sodium and 2 people who have reduced sodium consumption, 4 people who diligently eat vegetables 4-5 times a week and 2 people who rarely eat vegetables in a week , 5 people who have no desire to exercise in a week and 1 respondent who has a desire to exercise every week. Furthermore, 3 hypertensive patients who are always reminded by their families in controlling hypertension and 3 people who are rarely reminded to control their hypertension, such as taking regular medication and managing their diet. The research objective was to determine the relationship between motivation and family support in controlling hypertension and blood pressure in hypertensive patients in the Andalas sub-district, the Andalas Health Center in 2023. The research design was a cross-sectional study. The study was conducted from October 2022 to July 2023. The study population was all hypertension patients who were registered at the Andalas Health Center visit in the Andalas sub-district, consisting of 68 people. All populations are used as research subjects. Data collection was carried out by interviewing questionnaires and direct measurements. Univariate data analysis using descriptive statistics in the form of frequency and percentage distributions, bivariate analysis using the chi-square test.
A Genre Analysis of Algerian and Jordanian Obituary Announcements
Authors: Al-Shuaibi Jihad , Saadi Noria , Al-Zoubi Zaineh
Published: October 2024

The study investigates the generic structure of 240 Algerian and Jordanian obituary announcements published on Facebook with the purpose of identifying, describing and analyzing their structure, generic component, and communicative functions. The study adopts a mixed method approach, including both quantitative and qualitative methods -with more emphasis on the latter- couched within the Bhatia (1993) genre analysis framework. The qualitative analysis helps in understanding the underlying process and details of obituary writings. The quantitative analysis provides the frequencies and identifies the structural order of the rhetorical moves. The study reveals the similarities and differences between Facebook obituaries in both societies. The results show that: (i) Algerian and Jordanian obituaries consist of eleven generic moves (1-11); (ii) While Algerian and Jordanian obituaries share some similarities in Moves (1-6), they differ in Moves (7-9) with some additional differences noted in Moves (10) and (11); (iii) Religion and socio-economic statuses are two key factors in composing the Algerian and Jordanian obituaries. This study provides an original contribution and fills a gap in the literature of Facebook obituaries in both Algerian and Jordanian contexts, addressing an unexplored area. Future cross-cultural research is required to spot any cross-cultural similarities or contrasts among these announcements within different religious and ethnic groups, whether in Algeria (Amazigh), Jordan (Kurds or Armenians) and / or in other Arabic contexts.
G-quadruplex formation in RNA aptamers selected for binding to HIV-1 capsid
Authors: Mayer Miles D. , Lange Margaret J.
Published: October 2024

HIV-1 capsid protein (CA) is essential for viral replication and interacts with numerous host factors to facilitate successful infection. Thus, CA is an integral target for the study of virus-host dynamics and therapeutic development. The multifaceted functions of CA stem from the ability of CA to assemble into distinct structural components that come together to form the mature capsid core. Each structural component, including monomers, pentamers, and hexamers, presents a variety of solvent-accessible surfaces. However, the structure-function relationships of these components that facilitate replication and virus-host interactions have yet to be fully elucidated. A major challenge is the genetic fragility of CA, which precludes the use of many common methods. To overcome these constraints, we identified CA-targeting aptamers with binding specificity for either the mature CA hexamer lattice alone or both the CA hexamer lattice and soluble CA hexamer. To enable utilization of these aptamers as molecular tools for the study of CA structure-function relationships in cells, understanding the higher-order structures of these aptamers is required. While our initial work on a subset of aptamers included predictive and qualitative biochemical characterizations that provided insight into aptamer secondary structures, these approaches were insufficient for determining more complex non-canonical architectures. Here, we further clarify aptamer structural motifs using focused, quantitative biophysical approaches, primarily through the use of multi-effective spectroscopic methods and thermodynamic analyses. Aptamer L15.20.1 displayed particularly strong, unambiguous indications of stable RNA G-quadruplex (rG4) formation under physiological conditions in a region of the aptamer also previously shown to be necessary for CA-aptamer interactions. Non-canonical structures, such as the rG4, have distinct chemical signatures and interfaces that may support downstream applications without the need for complex modifications or labels that may negatively affect aptamer folding. Thus, aptamer representative L15.20.1, containing a putative rG4 in a region likely required for aptamer binding to CA with probable function under cellular conditions, may be a particularly useful tool for the study of HIV-1 CA.
Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation successfully used in a two-hour cardiac arrest caused by fulminant myocarditis: a case report
Authors: Hu Qinxue , Liu Xing , Wen Chengli , Mei Songtao , Lei Xianying , Xu Tao
Published: October 2024

Fulminant myocarditis (FM) is characteristically associated with rapid progressive decline in cardiac function and high mortality, with rapid onset of hemodynamic dysfunction and severe arrhythmias. In this report, we describe a case concerning a patient clinically diagnosed with FM, marked by rapid progression leading to intractable ventricular fibrillation and subsequent cardiac arrest. Conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CCPR) was performed 120 min before extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was initiated. This critical situation was effectively addressed through the utilization of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). By providing sustained cardiopulmonary support, effective hemodynamics were obtained. Eventually, the patient made a full recovery, and discharged without neurologic complications on hospital day 13.
Coronary artery disease and the risk of life-threatening cardiac events after age 40 in long QT syndrome
Authors: Barsheshet Alon , Goldenberg Ilan , Bjelic Milica , Buturlin Kirill , Erez Aharon , Goldenberg Gustavo , Chen Anita Y. , Polonsky Bronislava , McNitt Scott , Aktas Mehmet , Zareba Wojciech , Golovchiner Gregory
Published: October 2024

Background and aims

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) and coronary artery disease (CAD) are both associated with increased risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmia. However, there are limited data on the incremental risk conferred by CAD in adult patients with congenital LQTS. We aimed to investigate the risk associated with CAD and life threatening events (LTEs) in patients with LQTS after age 40 years.

Methods

The risk of LTEs (comprising aborted cardiac arrest, sudden cardiac death, or appropriate defibrillator shock) from age 40 through 75 years was examined in 1,020 subjects from the Rochester LQTS registry, categorized to CAD (n = 137) or no-CAD (n = 883) subgroups.

Results

Survival analysis showed that patients with CAD had a significantly higher cumulative event rate of LTEs from 40 to 75 years (35%) compared with those without CAD (7%; p < 0.001 for the overall difference during follow-up). Consistently, multivariate analysis showed that the presence of CAD was associated with a 2.5-fold (HR = 2.47; p = 0.02) increased risk of LTEs after age 40 years. Subgroup analyses showed that CAD vs. no CAD was associated with a pronounced >4-fold (p = 0.008) increased risk of LTEs among LQTS patients with a lower-range QTc (<500 ms). The increased risk of LTEs associated with CAD was not significantly different among the 3 main LQTS genotypes. Patient treatment was suboptimal, with only 63% on β-blockers and 44% on non-selective β-blockers.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that CAD is associated with a higher risk of LTEs in LQTS patients, with the risk being more pronounced in those with QTc <500 ms.
Geometry of large normal fault growth and linkage with temporal constraints: a case study on the Lanliao fault in Dongpu Sag, Bohai Bay basin, NE China
Authors: Xu Han , Qiu Liang , Yan Dan-Ping , Wang Xin-Wen
Published: October 2024

The Dongpu Sag exhibits highly representative structural features of the Bohai Bay Basin. By utilizing time depth quantification (TDQ) technology, geological profiles were generated through the processing of seismic data with a velocity model. These profiles were integrated to investigate the linkage geometry and timing of the Lanliao fault, the eastern boundary fault of the Dongpu Sag. Structural analysis revealed at least five original fault segments of the Lanliao fault, each initiating independently during the early growth phase. The development of these isolated fault segments began in the early Eocene, which is concurrent with the deposition of the Es4 member. The southern fault segments were active earlier but became inactive later as the northern segments gained activity during the Es3 member. Transverse anticlines separate the northern and southern faults. By the time of the Es2 member, all segments had linked, forming a continuous boundary fault across the transverse anticlines. As the Dongpu Sag expanded, the depocenter relocated. The southern fault formed a graben, known as the Gegangji subsag, controlling the depocenter during the Es33 and Es32 members. The depocenter of the Es31 member shifted northward swiftly, developing into a half-graben depocenter called the Huzhuangji subsag. In the post-linkage development phase, the activity of the Lanliao fault decreased over time, with displacement becoming more concentrated on the Huanghe fault, an intrabasin fault. The Huanghe fault then dominated basin sedimentation, moving the depocenter to the Mengmangji subsag. This study demonstrates that the fault linkage is a significant event in basin evolution, exerting considerable control over sedimentation and the overall evolution of the basin.
Refeeding partially reverses impaired fracture callus in undernourished rats
Authors: Botega Iara I. , Guedes Patrícia M. S. G. , Ximenez João Paulo B. , Zamarioli Ariane , Volpon José B.
Published: October 2024

Background

Adequate nutritional intake plays a crucial role in maximizing skeletal acquisition. The specific effects of a general food restriction and refeeding on fracture healing are yet to be fully understood. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of general food restriction and refeeding on fracture repair.

Methods

Fifty-four male Wistar Hannover rats were randomly assigned into three groups: (1) Sham: Sham rats with femoral fracture; (2) FRes: Food-restricted rats with fracture, (3) Fres+Ref: Fres rats with refeeding. Following weaning, the FRes and Fres+Ref groups received 50% of the food amount provided to the Shams. In the sixth week of the experiment, all animals underwent a mid-right femur bone fracture, which was subsequently surgically stabilized. Following the fracture, the Fres+Ref group was refed, while the other groups maintained their pre-fracture diet. Bone calluses were analyzed on the fifth-day post-fracture by gene expression and on the sixth-week post-fracture using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, morphometry, histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry, computed microtomography, and torsion mechanical testing. Statistical significance was determined at a probability level of less than 0.05, and comparisons were made using the ANOVA test.

Results

Food restriction resulted in significant phenotypic changes in bone calluses when compared to sham rats characterized by deterioration in microstructure (i.e., BV, BV/TV, Tb.N, and Conn.D) reduced collagen deposition, bone mineral density, and mechanical strength (i.e., torque at failure, energy, and stiffness). Moreover, a higher rate of immature bone indicated a decrease in bone callus quality. Refeeding stimulated bone callus collagen formation, reduced local resorption, and effectively restored the microstructural (i.e., SMI, BCa.BV/TV, Tb.Sp, Tb.N, and Conn.D) and mechanical changes (i.e., torque at failure, energy, and angular displacement at failure) caused by food restriction. Despite these positive effects, the density of the bone callus, collagen deposition, and OPG expression remained lower when compared to the shams. Gene expression analysis didn’t evidence any significant differences among the groups.

Conclusions

Food restriction had detrimental effects on osseous healing, which was partially improved by refeeding. Based on these findings, new research can be developed to create targeted nutritional strategies to treat and improve fracture healing.
The association between triglyceride-glucose index and gallstones: NHANES 2017-2020
Authors: Gong Li , Fan Shujin , Peng Zhenfei , Chen Zeyao , Liu Yuzhou , Huang Yinluan , Wang Chaofan , Piao Chunli
Published: October 2024

Objects

It remains unclear whether the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index has correlations with gallstones. This study aimed to investigate the association between TyG index and gallstones.

Methods

Data was obtained from the 2017-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Participants who provided complete data about TyG index and gallstones were included in the analysis. Multivariable regression analysis and subgroup analysis were preformed to estimate the relationship between TyG index and gallstones. Restricted cubic splines (RSC) was employed to calculate the cut off value.

Results

The TyG index was independently associated with gallstones and demonstrates a clear positive correlation (OR = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.01–1.21; p = 0.033). The threshold value is 8.98, showing a positive correlation between TyG index and gallstones when the TyG index is less than 8.98 (Log likelihood ratio P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis indicates that the correlation between TyG and gallstones is mainly observed in individuals with obesity, females, younger individuals, and those with normal blood sugar levels, with these subgroups all acting as mediators between TyG and gallstones.

Conclusions

Higher TyG index was linked to a higher chance of developing gallstones. Managing insulin resistance (IR) could help reduce the risk of gallstones since the TyG index is an indicator of IR.
Performance assessment of subsea safety systems subject to heterogeneous failure modes and repair delays
Authors: Dan Emefon , Liu Yiliu
Published: October 2024

Subsea production systems operate in harsh and hostile environments, making them subject to degradation that leads to failure. This is also the case for the final elements of safety-instrumented systems (SISs) that are installed to protect subsea production systems. As a result, the classic SIS performance assessment methods that assume constant failure rates may not be realistic for subsea elements, which may experience both random failures and natural degradation. The location of subsea production also provides challenges for accessing the system to perform repair, and this often results in delays before repair following revealed failures. In this paper, we explore all these issues by developing formulations that incorporate degradation and random failures as well as repair delays to assess the performance of the system. The degradation of the system is modeled with the Weibull distribution, while an exponential distribution is used to model the random failures. The impacts of different maintenance strategies on safety are also explored with case studies.
A review of environmental and health effects of synthetic cosmetics
Authors: Wirtu Yohannes Desalegn
Published: October 2024

The use of cosmetic products is expanding globally, and with it, so is the range of chemical substances employed in their production. As a result, there is also a higher risk of intoxication, allergic reactions, prolonged chemical exposure, adverse effects, and indiscriminate use. Cosmetic products can contain more than 10,000 ingredients. Most users of synthetic cosmetics are unaware of the harmful effects if they even are. However, it is linked to many diseases like cancer, congenital disabilities, reproductive impairments, developmental systems, contact dermatitis, hair loss, lung damage, old age, skin diseases and reactions, allergies, and harm to human nails. Many beauty products also create a high demand for natural oils, leading to extensive and intensive cultivation, harming natural habitats through deforestation, and contaminating soil and water through pesticides and fertilizers. The adverse effects of hazardous substances in synthetic cosmetics extend beyond human health and influence ecosystems, air quality, and oceans. Thus, this review aims to assess the environmental and health impacts of cosmetics using published scientific articles. The study used a systematic review based on Scopus, Science Direct, Web databases, Scholar Google, and PubMed. The results of this review showed that the formulation of cosmetics until the disposal of their containers could adversely affect environmental and human health.
Multiparametric quantitative MRI of healthy adult pancreas: correlations with gender and age
Authors: Wang Lixia , Liang Lu , Zhang Jiyang , Wu Chaowei , Zhou Yang , Yu Yang , Zhang Chen , Jeon Christie Y. , Jiang Tao , Gaddam Srinivas , Xie Yibin , Pandol Stephen J. , Yang Qi , Li Debiao
Published: October 2024

Background

The pancreas plays an important role in the nutrition and metabolism of the whole body. Many disease processes including obesity, diabetes mellitus (DM), acute or chronic pancreatitis, and pancreatic carcinoma result in abnormality of pancreas morphology and function. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides quantitative parameters including T1, T2, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values for evaluating normal and abnormal pancreas. Based on the normal range of these quantitative parameters, pancreatic abnormality could be detected early. However, the range and the relationship of T1, T2, and ADC values with gender and age groups using the same dataset have not been explored.

Purpose

To establish the ranges of MRI tissue and functional parameters, including T1, T2, and ADC values, in healthy adult pancreas and their correlations with gender, subregion, and age.

Materials and methods

The T1, T2, and ADC values of healthy pancreas in 86 adults were measured using a 3.0-T MRI scanner. The average T1, T2, and ADC values were obtained in the whole pancreas and subregions (head, neck, body, and tail). Their correlations with gender and age were investigated.

Results

The T1, T2, and ADC values of the whole pancreas from all subjects were 870.07 ± 61.86 ms, 44.07 ± 6.14 ms, and 1.072 ± 0.212 × 10−3 mm2/s, respectively. T2 values were significantly different between genders (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found between subregions. The T1, T2, and ADC values differed significantly among the age groups (P < 0.05). The T1 value revealed a moderately positive correlation, while the T2 and ADC values displayed negative correlations with age (r = 0.31, −0.45, and −0.39, respectively). The combination of T1, T2, and ADC values achieved the highest AUC value and showed a significant difference compared to T1, T2, and ADC values alone in predicting age older than 45 years.

Conclusion

This study established the normal ranges of T1, T2, and ADC. We found that T2 is different between men and women, and T1, T2, and ADC are age-dependent. These results could be useful for quantitative MRI of pancreatic disease.
The arisal of data spaces: why I am excited and worried
Authors: Peeters Liesbet M.
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the significant role of real-world data (RWD) in advancing our understanding and management of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). RWD has proven invaluable in MS research and care, offering insights from larger and diverse patient populations. A key focus of the paper is the European Health Data Space (EHDS), a significant development that promises to change how healthcare data is managed across Europe. This initiative is particularly relevant to the MS community. The paper highlights various data initiatives, discussing their importance for those affected by MS. Despite the potential benefits, there are challenges and concerns, especially about ensuring that the growth of various data platforms remains beneficial for MS patients. The paper suggests practical actions for the global MS community to consider, aimed at optimizing the use of RWD. The emphasis of this discussion is on the secondary use of health data, particularly in the European context. The content is based on the author’s own experiences and interpretations, offering a personal yet informed view on using RWD to improve MS research and patient care.
The complex role of immune cells in antigen presentation and regulation of T-cell responses in hepatocellular carcinoma: progress, challenges, and future directions
Authors: Ning Jianbo , Wang Yutao , Tao Zijia
Published: October 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent form of liver cancer that poses significant challenges regarding morbidity and mortality rates. In the context of HCC, immune cells play a vital role, especially concerning the presentation of antigens. This review explores the intricate interactions among immune cells within HCC, focusing on their functions in antigen presentation and the modulation of T-cell responses. We begin by summarizing the strategies that HCC uses to escape immune recognition, emphasizing the delicate equilibrium between immune surveillance and evasion. Next, we investigate the specific functions of various types of immune cells, including dendritic cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and CD8+ T cells, in the process of antigen presentation. We also examine the impact of immune checkpoints, such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) and the pathways involving programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), on antigen presentation, while taking into account the clinical significance of checkpoint inhibitors. The review further emphasizes the importance of immune-based therapies, including cancer vaccines and CAR-T cell therapy, in improving antigen presentation. In conclusion, we encapsulate the latest advancements in research, propose future avenues for exploration, and stress the importance of innovative technologies and customized treatment strategies. By thoroughly analyzing the interactions of immune cells throughout the antigen presentation process in HCC, this review provides an up-to-date perspective on the field, setting the stage for new therapeutic approaches.
Modelling the properties of aerated concrete on the basis of raw materials and ash-and-slag wastes using machine learning paradigm
Authors: Rudenko Olga , Galkina Darya , Sadenova Marzhan , Beisekenov Nail , Kulisz Monika , Begentayev Meiram
Published: October 2024

The thermal power industry, as a major consumer of hard coal, significantly contributes to harmful emissions, affecting both air quality and soil health during the operation and transportation of ash and slag waste. This study presents the modeling of aerated concrete using local raw materials and ash-and-slag waste in seismic areas through machine learning techniques. A comprehensive literature review and comparative analysis of normative documentation underscore the relevance and feasibility of employing non-autoclaved aerated concrete blocks in such regions. Machine learning methods are particularly effective for disjointed datasets, with neural networks demonstrating superior performance in modeling complex relationships for predicting concrete strength and density. The results reveal that neural networks, especially those with Bayesian Regularisation, consistently outperformed decision trees, achieving higher regression values (Rstrength = 0.9587 and Rdensity = 0.91997) and lower error metrics (MSE, RMSE, RIE, MAE). This indicates their advanced capability to capture intricate non-linear patterns. The study concludes that artificial neural networks are a robust tool for predicting concrete properties, crucial for producing non-autoclaved curing wall blocks suitable for earthquake-resistant construction. Future research should focus on optimizing the balance between density and strength of blocks by enhancing the properties of aerated concrete and utilizing reliable models.