bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complement Activation-Independent Attenuation of SARS-CoV-2 Infection by C1q and C4b-Binding Protein
Authors: Beirag Nazar , Varghese Praveen M. , Neto Martin Mayora , Al Aiyan Ahmad , Khan Haseeb A. , Qablan Moneeb , Shamji Mohamed H. , Sim Robert B. , Temperton Nigel , Kishore Uday
Published: May 2023

The complement system is a key component of the innate immune response to viruses and proinflammatory events. Exaggerated complement activation has been attributed to the induction of a cytokine storm in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, there is also an argument for the protective role of complement proteins, given their local synthesis or activation at the site of viral infection. This study investigated the complement activation-independent role of C1q and C4b-binding protein (C4BP) against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The interactions of C1q, its recombinant globular heads, and C4BP with the SARS-CoV-2 spike and receptor binding domain (RBD) were examined using direct ELISA. In addition, RT-qPCR was used to evaluate the modulatory effect of these complement proteins on the SARS-CoV-2-mediated immune response. Cell binding and luciferase-based viral entry assays were utilised to assess the effects of C1q, its recombinant globular heads, and C4BP on SARS-CoV-2 cell entry. C1q and C4BP bound directly to SARS-CoV-2 pseudotype particles via the RBD domain of the spike protein. C1q via its globular heads and C4BP were found to reduce binding as well as viral transduction of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein expressing lentiviral pseudotypes into transfected A549 cells expressing human ACE2 and TMPRSS2. Furthermore, the treatment of the SARS-CoV-2 spike, envelope, nucleoprotein, and membrane protein expressing alphaviral pseudotypes with C1q, its recombinant globular heads, or C4BP triggered a reduction in mRNA levels of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines such as IL-1β, IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-α, and RANTES (as well as NF-κB) in A549 cells expressing human ACE2 and TMPRSS2. In addition, C1q and C4BP treatment also reduced SARS-CoV-2 pseudotype infection-mediated NF-κB activation in A549 cells expressing human ACE2 and TMPRSS2. C1q and C4BP are synthesised primarily by hepatocytes; however, they are also produced by macrophages, and alveolar type II cells, respectively, locally at the pulmonary site. These findings support the notion that the locally produced C1q and C4BP can be protective against SARS-CoV-2 infection in a complement activation-independent manner, offering immune resistance by inhibiting virus binding to target host cells and attenuating the infection-associated inflammatory response.
Application of Vortex Identification Methods in Vertical Slit Fishways
Authors: Shen Chunying , Yang Ruiguo , Wang Mingming , He Shihua , Qing Shan
Published: May 2023

The reproduction and survival of fish are often negatively affected by the construction of dams and other hydroelectric projects, which cut off their migratory routes. Building effective fish passage facilities that allow fish to pass through dams smoothly alleviates the negative impact of hydroelectric projects on the ecological environment, thus protecting the diversity of aquatic species and preventing the extinction of indigenous fish. Vertical slit fishways are highly effective, but turbulence inside the fishway pools directly affects fish passage. In this study, the large-eddy simulation framework is used to capture the vortex characteristics in the interior of vertical slit fishway pools, and the volume of fluid method is applied to simulate the free surface. The independence of the grid is assessed by the large-eddy simulation quality index, and the simulation results are compared with experimental acoustic Doppler velocimetry data. This work characterizes the vortex flow field inside the vertical slit fishway using the Q-criterion, Omega method, and Liutex vortex identification method. The results show that the vortex structure inside the fishway pool has obvious three-dimensional characteristics and vortex structure varies within the different fishway pool chambers. The analysis and comparison of the three different vortex identification methods show that the vortex structure captured by the Liutex method is more consistent with the actual motion pattern of the fishway water flow.
Removal of NOMs by Carbon Nanotubes/Polysulfone Nanocomposite Hollow Fiber Membranes for the Control of Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs)
Authors: Yin Jun , Fidalgo Maria , Deng Baolin
Published: May 2023

It has been well established that natural organic matters (NOMs) are precursors for the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) in drinking water supplies, thus the removal of NOMs is often used as an effective approach to limit DBPs production. In this study, we evaluated the application of oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (OMWNTs)/polysulfone (PSU) nanocomposite hollow fiber membranes (HFM) for the removal of NOMs and its impact on the production of DBPs following water chlorination. Analysis of source water samples by fluorescence excitation/emission matrix (EEM) spectrometry indicated that the dominant dissolved organic matters were humic acid. Evaluation of the fabricated nanocomposite HFMs showed improved water fluxes (30~50%), better fouling resistance, and a comparable solute rejection rate when compared with the conventional PSU membranes. The flux increase was attributed to the increased surface hydrophilicity and porosity of the membrane after embedding the hydrophilic OMWNTs. The membrane filtration resulted in a reduction of UV254 by approximately 52%, 48%, and 38% for three water samples from Missouri River, Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, and Columbia Water Treatment Plant, respectively. The corresponding reduction in trihalomethane formation potential (THMFP) reached 40%, 70%, and 27%, respectively. Overall, this study demonstrated that proper OMWNTs/PSU ultrafiltration membranes could remove a portion of NOMs from water at a relatively low cross-membrane pressure. It also illustrates the innovative concept that membrane design could be tailored for specific water quality conditions and regulatory requirements; in this particular case, to fabricate a membrane to reduce the THMFP to a level that meets the regulatory standards for trihalomethanes when the water was disinfected by chlorine.
Study on the Water Level–Discharge Relationship Changes in Dongting Lake Outlet Section over 70 Years and the Impact of Yangtze River Backwater Effect
Authors: Liu Yizhuang , Jiang Changbo , Long Yuannan , Deng Bin , Jiang Jieyu , Yang Yang , Wu Zhiyuan
Published: May 2023

The hydrological characteristics of the river–lake connecting section are determined by their interaction and studying them can help to understand the changing relationship between these two water bodies over time. The Lujiao–Luosan section is the connecting section of Dongting Lake and the Yangtze River, and the hydrological data for this section over the past 70 years has been analyzed. It has been found that the lowest water level is consistently rising at the same discharge at Chenglingji station, which is the joint point of Dongting Lake and the Yangtze River. While this could alleviate the drought situation in the Dongting Lake area during dry seasons, it could pose a more significant flood-control challenge during high water levels in the flood season. The water surface slope shows a decreasing trend especially during the dry season, except for the high flood period (July–September), which indicates that the water slope in the connecting section of Dongting Lake has become flatter. The backwater effect of the Yangtze River on Dongting Lake becomes increasingly stronger as the water surface slope difference between the Chenglingji–Luoshan section and the Lujiao–Chenglingji section changes from negative to positive between January and April.
Spatiotemporal Variation of Runoff and Its Influencing Factors in the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Cui Jingkai , Jian Shengqi
Published: May 2023

Runoff is an important component of water resources and also the basis for regional water resources development and utilization. In order to explore the new characteristics of the spatiotemporal variation of runoff in the whole Yellow River Basin, the spatiotemporal variation of runoff in the Yellow River Basin from 1982 to 2012 was studied based on the measured runoff data of 14 representative basins in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the Yellow River Basin. The results showed that the runoff depth of the Yellow River Basin from 1982 to 2012 showed a decreasing trend, with a decrease rate of 0.3 mm/a. Among them, the discharge depth decreased significantly (p < 0.01) from 1982 to 1999, with a rate of 1.55 mm/a. Most of the area of the basin has a discharge depth of 0–10 mm, which is relatively dry. The area of higher runoff depth (40–100 mm) is decreasing and gradually concentrating in high-altitude steep-slope areas, while the area of lower runoff depth (0–10 mm) is increasing and spreading to low-altitude gentle-slope areas. After 1999, the discharge in the four sub-basins in the upper reaches decreased, and most of the sub-basins in the middle reaches also showed a decreasing trend, while the discharge in a few sub-basins, such as Qinhe River and Yiluo River, increased. The discharge depth of the sub-basins in the lower reaches increased, but the magnitude and rate of change of most of the sub-basins were consistent with the overall trend of the Yellow River Basin, which showed a decreasing trend.
Drivers of the Structure of Mollusc Communities in the Natural Aquatic Habitats along the Valley of a Lowland River: Implications for Their Conservation through the Buffer Zones
Authors: Lewin Iga , Stępień Edyta , Szlauer-Łukaszewska Agnieszka , Pakulnicka Joanna , Stryjecki Robert , Pešić Vladimir , Bańkowska Aleksandra , Szućko-Kociuba Izabela , Michoński Grzegorz , Krzynówek Zuzanna , Krakowiak Maja , Chatterjee Tapas , Zawal Andrzej
Published: May 2023

The objectives of our survey were to determine the most important environmental factors within buffer zones that influenced mollusc communities and to evaluate the ecological conservation value of natural aquatic habitats (NAHs) that support mollusc species. Analysis of the spatial structure of buffer zones and catchments was based on a set of landscape metrics. Land cover classes were determined, and buffer zones within a radius of 500 m from a sampling point were marked out. Mollusc samples were collected from each NAHs. Our results showed that the number of patches and mean patch size were most associated with the distribution of mollusc species. Within patches of buffer zones, the length of the catchment boundaries with low-density housing, an increasing area of forest and pH of the water were also significant. Our results proved that landscape metrics provide essential information about catchment anthropogenic transformation. Therefore, landscape metrics and the designated buffer zones should be included in restoration plans for the river, water bodies and adjacent habitats as elements of modern, sustainable water management. NAHs located along a valley of a lowland river provide refuges for molluscs, play an essential role in the dispersal of IAS, create important protective biogeochemical barriers for rivers, constitute necessary sources of moisture and water and support microhabitats for distinct mollusc communities, especially in the context of global warming.
Frequency Response of RC Propellers to Streamwise Gusts in Forward Flight
Authors: Cai Jielong , Gunasekaran Sidaard
Published: May 2023

The RC propeller performance under steady and sinusoidally time-varying freestream (stream-wise or longitudinal gust) was investigated in the University of Dayton Low-Speed Wind Tunnel (UD-LSWT) in the open-jet configuration. The propellers were tested at varying incidence angles and reduced frequencies. The streamwise gust was created by actuating the shuttering system located at the test section exit and was characterized using hot-wire anemometry. A system identification model was developed for the shuttering system to determine the shutter actuation profile that would result in a sinusoidal gust in the test section. Changes in propeller thrust, power, and pitching moment were observed with an increase in propeller incidence angle under the steady freestream. The propeller’s steady freestream performance was then used to predict response under periodic streamwise gusts in edgewise flight. Below a reduced frequency of 0.2, the propeller response agrees with the prediction model, suggesting that the propeller response is quasi-steady. At reduced frequencies higher than 0.2, a reduction in mean thrust and pitching moment and significant phase lag was observed.
Indigenous Food Yam Cultivation and Livelihood Practices in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Ema Eti-Obong Simeon , Obidiegwu Jude Ejikeme , Chilaka Cynthia Adaku , Akpabio Emmanuel Matthew
Published: May 2023

Yam production, processing, distribution, and marketing processes are underpinned by socio-cultural beliefs shaped by ritual practices and indigenous wisdom. We used semi-structured interviews, public meetings, keen observation, local informants, and a review of secondary materials to assess local indigenous understanding of interconnected perspectives of yam farming processes, socio-cultural perspectives, and livelihood practices in communities in southern Nigeria. Our findings revealed that over 90% of farmers depend on experiences of adjusting to seasonal challenges, storage practices, and fertility enhancement. Cultural beliefs and spiritual practices pervade farmers’ social attitudes to improving farming operations. Almost 70% of yam producers are aged 60 years and above and depend on crude tools and traditional methods of land management and production process, even though the modern and innovative farming methods and practices are limited. Farmers respond to the poor public support system of extension services by informal networking and local associational relationships with diverse schemes to support and encourage members. Government and organizations should take advantage of these informal structures to empower farmers through micro-credits, education, information, training, supervision, and mechanization. Different groups of actors organized into formal social structures like cooperatives will take advantage of bulk buying, selling, transportation, access fundings, information, education, and training from public and non-governmental institutions. The study findings have demonstrated that the socio-economic structure of the Obudu community has developed extensively on account of decades of yam production and processing, supporting chains of a livelihood network, entrepreneurship, and relationships of mutual cooperation and co-existence.
CONCEPÇÕES DE PROFESSORES EM FORMAÇÃO: (re)elaborações de sentidos sobre pessoas com deficiência
Authors: Nascimento Luciana de Abreu , Carvalho Maria de Fátima
Published: May 2023

Ao tratar da escolarização da pessoa com deficiência, as diretrizes para formação docente transitam entre posições genéricas sobre diversidade e a instrumentalização para o atendimento educacional especializado, versando sobre o professor generalista, amparado pelo especialista, sem que se aprofunde em como se dão suas formações. Assumindo os cursos de formação docente como espaços privilegiados de (re)construção de saberes para a prática educacional, neste artigo, propõe-se a investigação dos modos como estudantes de cursos de Pedagogia elaboram questões relacionadas à educação da pessoa com deficiência e ao papel da graduação na construção de conhecimentos sobre o tema. Fundamentado pela Psicologia Histórico-cultural e pelos estudos da linguagem numa perspectiva dialógico-enunciativa, o trabalho envolveu a elaboração/conceituação da ideia de concepção e a realização de rodas de conversas com graduandas de três universidades paulistas sobre a escolarização de estudantes com deficiência. A análise e discussão a partir da áudio-gravação das rodas evidenciam como concepções elaboradas pelas estudantes trazem significados sobre deficiência; sobre a formação na universidade; e sobre a escola e o fazer docente, arrematados pelas indefinições do tema, constituindo-se não como conceitos, mas como saberes em elaboração. A reflexão aqui proposta contribui para a problematização da formação com vistas à transformação de expectativas e práticas que orientam a relação de professores em formação com conhecimentos sobre a pessoa com deficiência e sua educação. Ainda, apontam-se as rodas de conversa como potencial espaço formativo em uma perspectiva dialógica de reelaboração de saberes e práticas.
Paraplegia de Origem Cortical: Relato de Caso
Authors: Gobate Miorin Ana Paula , Pugliesi Marques Vitor Roberto
Published: May 2023

Introdução. A irrigação do sistema nervoso central (SNC) advém do Polígono de Willis (PW), existindo diversas variações na sua distribuição denominadas variações anatômicas. Objetivo. Relato de caso de paraplegia de origem central por variação anatômica no PW. Relato. Mulher, 78 anos, com queda da própria altura seguida de fraqueza em membros inferiores (MMII) e membro superior direito (MSD). Apresentava-se com apagamento do sulco nasolabial direito, paraplegia flácida crural assimétrica, pior a esquerda, monoplegia flácida de MSD, hipoestesia em MMII e sinal de Babinski bilateral. Tomografias (TC) de coluna cervical e dorsal afastaram causas traumáticas. TC de crânio evidenciou hipodensidade fronto-parietal esquerda, sugerindo isquemia recente. Em investigação, ecocardiograma e ultrassom doppler das artérias carótidas e vertebrais dentro da normalidade. Ressonância de crânio com sinais de infarto recente nos giros do cíngulo e frontal superior esquerdos e mínimos focos isquêmicos córtico-subcorticais no giro frontal superior direito, com agenesia de porção A1 da artéria cerebral anterior direita na angiorressonância. Resultados. A doença mais prevalente no SNC é o AVCi, cujos sintomas dependem da região cerebral afetada. A apresentação atípica relatada foi decorrente de variação anatômica no PW, a agenesia de porção A1 da artéria cerebral anterior direita. A prevalência de variações anatômicas no PW é cerca de 68,22%, sendo a artéria comunicante posterior o segmento mais afetado. Conclusão. a maioria das variações anatômicas da circulação arterial cerebral não geram repercussão clínica, pois, em geral, não são patológicas. Todavia, é importante conhecê-las para fazermos os diagnósticos diferenciais nos quadros atípicos e minimizarmos iatrogenias cirúrgicas.
4-H International Camp United Program and the 2025 4-H Strategic Vision
Authors: Torretta Alayne , Newman Matthew , Kinsey Sharon
Published: May 2023

Building on existing relationships with international youth development colleagues, we created the 4-H International Camp United Program (4-HICUP) as a leadership opportunity for international and U.S. teens. In 2019, teenagers from Azerbaijan, Italy, Russia, and the United States came together to build personal cross-cultural relationships, further develop leadership skills, and increase understanding of their role as global citizens. The program was inspired by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture 2025 Strategic Vision for 4-H suggesting that "youth and adults learn, grow, and work together as catalysts for positive change." With the success of 4-HICUP, we want to include more states/countries and expand our outreach, and we encourage others to implement similar programming.
Assessing Community Readiness to Engage in Diversity and Inclusion Efforts
Authors: Chazdon Scott , Hawker Julie , Hayes Bukata , Linscheid Neil , O'Brien Nancy
Published: May 2023

Social scientific research has demonstrated that increasing racial or ethnic diversity can reduce overall levels of social solidarity in a community. Yet many community development organizations, including Extension, are deeply committed to creating a broader sense of cohesion in rural communities. This article highlights a recent interagency effort, known as the Welcoming Communities Assessment, to assess a community's readiness for inclusion. The Welcoming Communities Assessment helps community members gain a baseline, action-oriented understanding of how inclusive different sectors of their community are for immigrants, refugees, and people of color. This article describes the assessment's context, design, analysis, and implementation.
Transcriptomic and Macroscopic Architectures of Multimodal Covariance Network Reveal Molecular–Structural–Functional Co-alterations
Authors: Jiang Lin , Peng Yueheng , He Runyang , Yang Qingqing , Yi Chanlin , Li Yuqin , Zhu Bin , Si Yajing , Zhang Tao , Biswal Bharat B. , Yao Dezhong , Xiong Lan , Li Fali , Xu Peng
Published: May 2023

Human cognition is usually underpinned by intrinsic structure and functional neural co-activation in spatially distributed brain regions. Owing to lacking an effective approach to quantifying the covarying of structure and functional responses, how the structural–functional circuits interact and how genes encode the relationships, to deepen our knowledge of human cognition and disease, are still unclear. Here, we propose a multimodal covariance network (MCN) construction approach to capture interregional covarying of the structural skeleton and transient functional activities for a single individual. We further explored the potential association between brain-wide gene expression patterns and structural–functional covarying in individuals involved in a gambling task and individuals with major depression disorder (MDD), adopting multimodal data from a publicly available human brain transcriptomic atlas and 2 independent cohorts. MCN analysis showed a replicable cortical structural–functional fine map in healthy individuals, and the expression of cognition- and disease phenotype-related genes was found to be spatially correlated with the corresponding MCN differences. Further analysis of cell type-specific signature genes suggests that the excitatory and inhibitory neuron transcriptomic changes could account for most of the observed correlation with task-evoked MCN differences. In contrast, changes in MCN of MDD patients were enriched for biological processes related to synapse function and neuroinflammation in astrocytes, microglia, and neurons, suggesting its promising application in developing targeted therapies for MDD patients. Collectively, these findings confirmed the correlations of MCN-related differences with brain-wide gene expression patterns, which captured genetically validated structural–functional differences at the cellular level in specific cognitive processes and psychiatric patients.
Tuning Surface Molecular Design of Porous Carbon for Blue Energy Harvesting
Authors: Yu Jian , Wang Zhong-Lin , Ma Tianwei
Published: May 2023

Capacitive mixing is a promising blue energy technology due to its membrane-free electricity generation and long electrode life cycle. However, because of limited performance, existing systems do not lend themselves to practical implementation. Although it is a crucial factor directly influencing electrode behavior, surface chemistry has largely been overlooked in capacitive mixing. Here, we show that manipulating surface functionalization alone can tune the responses of electrodes to produce a high voltage rise without altering the pore structure of the electrodes. Our findings reveal that the spontaneous electrode potential of a surface-modified carbon electrode shifts negatively proportional to the surface charge due to the surface groups, which explains why and how manipulating the surface chemistry can improve the power generation capacity. Using electrodes fabricated with identical activated carbon material but with different surface treatments, we have achieved a remarkably high power density of 166 mW/m2delivered to an electrical load under a 0.6 M to 0.01 M salinity gradient, with the total power generated of 225 mW/m2. The corresponding volumetric power densities were 0.88 kW/m3net and 1.17 kW/m3total. The volumetric power density of our prototype is comparable to or better than those of prevailing membrane technologies, such as pressure retarded osmosis and reverse electrolysis, whose volumetric power density values are 1.1 kW/m3and 0.16 kW/m3, respectively. In the seawater stage, the net power density reached 432 mW/m2or 2.3 kW/m3. Such performance far exceeds existing membrane-free systems, with the highest reported power density of 65 mW/m2under a 0.5 M to 0.02 M salinity gradient (121 mW/m2in this work). The device demonstrated unparalleled durability, maintaining 90% of the maximum energy capacity after 54,000 charge–discharge cycles.
TOXIC EFFECTS OF COMMERCIAL AND BOTANICAL PESTICIDES ON THE BEHAVIORAL PARAMETERS OF ZEBRAFISH (DANIO RERIO)
Authors: Cadena Pabyton , Silva Jadson Freitas da , Vieira Stefânia Maria de Medeiros , Silva Marilia Cordeiro Galvão da , Santos Thamiris  Pinheiros , Andrade André Lucas Corrêa de , Bastos Paulo Eduardo da Silva , Padilha Renata Meireles Oliveira , Magnabosco Amanda Rodrigues dos Santos , Bittencourt Tiago Queiroz da Mota , Melo João Paulo Ramos de , Câmara Cláudio Augusto Gomes da , Cadena Marilia Ribeiro Sales
Published: May 2023

ABSTRACT
The objective of this work was to evaluate the toxic effect of commercial pesticides, essential oils, and their mixtures, which present pesticide activity against Plutella xylostella, on the behavioral parameters, locomotor activity, and social behavior of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Adult animals were exposed to commercial pesticides deltamethrin, azadirachtin, chlorantraniliprole, essential oils Eugenia caryophyllus, Melaleuca alternifolia, Citrus aurantium var. dulcis, Citrus aurantiifolia, Eucalyptus globulus, and Melaleuca leucadendra, and mixtures of the substances. Mortality and behavioral parameters during chronic exposure were evaluated using the instantaneous scan sampling method, and locomotor activity and social behavior were assessed, according to the following parameters: distance covered, average speed, and inactive time. 100% mortality in animals exposed to deltamethrin was observed. Behavioral changes (p < 0.05) were found in foraging, resting, and attacking behaviors. Locomotor activity and social behavior were not affected by exposure. It can be concluded that exposure to commercial pesticides, essential oils, and their mixtures was toxic to zebrafish. Exposure to low concentrations of these pesticides affected the survival and behavior of zebrafish. Although biopesticides are considered safe, they can cause risks to the aquatic environment, and their toxic effects need to be studied to determine their safe use in agricultural activities.
Integrating the neural network into the stochastic DEA model
Authors: Sihotang Hengki Tamando , Lavemaau J. , Riandari Fristi , Panjaitan Firta Sari , Gorat Sonya Enjelina , Batubara Juliana
Published: May 2023

The novelty of integrating neural networks (NNs) into the stochastic DEA model lies in the ability to address some of the limitations of traditional DEA models and improve the accuracy and efficiency of efficiency measurement and prediction. By integrating NNs, the stochastic DEA model can capture the complex and non-linear relationships between the input and output variables of the decision-making units (DMUs) and handle uncertainty in the input and output data. This is achieved by using the NN to estimate the distribution of the input and output data and then using the stochastic DEA model to calculate the efficiency scores based on these estimated distributions. Furthermore, the integration of NNs into the stochastic DEA model allows for the development of hybrid models that combine the strengths of both techniques. For example, some researchers have proposed using genetic algorithms or other optimization techniques to optimize the input and output weights of the stochastic DEA model, which are then used to calculate the efficiency scores based on the estimated distributions from the NN. This results in a more accurate and efficient efficiency measurement and prediction model. Another novelty of integrating NNs into the stochastic DEA model is the potential for enhancing the interpretability of the model. While NNs are often considered as black-box models, several methods have been proposed to enhance the interpretability of NN-based stochastic DEA models. These methods include using feature importance analysis or visualization techniques to identify the most important input and output variables that contribute to the efficiency scores. Overall, the integration of NNs into the stochastic DEA model represents a novel approach to addressing the limitations of traditional DEA models and improving the accuracy and efficiency of efficiency measurement and prediction under uncertainty. The development of hybrid models and methods to enhance interpretability further add to the novelty and potential impact of this research.
Annelerin Bilinçli Farkındalık Düzeyini Etkileyen Faktörlerin Belirlenmesi
Authors: ÇAKIR Sinem , GÜLTEKİN AKDUMAN Gülümser , ÖZYÜREK Arzu
Published: May 2023

Bu çalışmada, annelerin ebeveynlikte bilinçli farkındalık düzeylerini etkileyen faktörlerin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Çalışma grubu, okul öncesi çocuğa sahip 242 anneden oluşmuştur. Verilerin toplanmasında Ebeveynlikte Bilinçli Farkındalık Ölçeği (MIPQ)kullanılmıştır. Annelerin ebeveynlikte bilinçli farkındalık düzeyini etkileyen faktörler sınıflandırma analizlerinden CHAID analizi kullanılarak belirlenmiştir. Ölçek toplam puanı ve alt boyut puanları bağımlı değişken, annelere ilişkin bazı kişisel bilgiler bağımsız değişken olarak atanmıştır. Sonuç olarak annelerin ebeveynlikte bilinçli farkındalık alt boyutlarından ebeveyn özyeterliğini etkileyen en önemli değişkenin çocuğun yanlış olduğunu düşündüğü davranışa tepkisi olduğu belirlenmiştir. Annelerin çocuğun yanlış davranışı karşısında sakin kalıp iletişim kurmayı denemesi durumunda ebeveynlikte bilinçli farkındalıkları; kaza, ameliyat veya ciddi bir rahatsızlık geçirmemiş ve çocuğunun yanlış davranışına sakin kalarak iletişim kurmayı deneyen annelerin ebeveyn özyeterlikleri daha yüksek bulunmuştur. Annelerin ebeveynlikte bilinçli farkındalık alt boyutundan çocuğuyla anda olmasını etkileyen en önemli değişkenin ise anne öğrenim durumu olduğu, çocuğunun yanlış davranışına sakin kalarak iletişim kurmayı deneyen orta-lise-üniversite mezunu annelerin çocukla anda olma düzeyinin daha yüksek olduğu belirlenmiştir. Çocuğa ilişkin kişisel değişkenlerin annelerin ebeveynlikte bilinçli farkındalığını etkilemediği belirlenmiştir.
The Use of Lactobacillus reuteri as an Adjunct in the Treatment of Children with Newly Diagnosed Asthma in a Tertiary Hospital in the Philippines
Authors: Villanueva Jose Carlo Miguel M , Gonzalez-Andaya Agnes M
Published: May 2023

Rationale: Probiotics are live microorganisms that exert beneficial effects on the host, including a reduction of allergic disease symptoms. Lactobacillus reuteri in particular was shown to attenuate the allergic airway, and when used as an adjunct in the treatment of asthma in children, resulted in decreased fractional exhaled nitric oxide and interleukin levels when compared to placebo. However, insufficient information is available regarding the significance of L. reuteri as an adjunct in the treatment of allergic disorders, particularly in allergic airway disease. Objectives: The objective of the study was to determine the efficacy of L. reuteri as an adjunct for the control of newly diagnosed asthma in children. Methodology and Population: In this analytical, experimental, prospective, randomized controlled trial, 44 asthmatic patients aged 6–18 years were recruited from the University of Santo Tomas Hospital outpatient department, for a study period of three months. Baseline clinical assessment included skin prick test to aeroallergens, spirometry, and Childhood Asthma Control Test. Asthma severity and level of control was based on the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program’s Expert Panel 3 (EPR-3) and the Global Initiative for Asthma Guidelines 2018, respectively. Patients were randomized and half of them received L. reuteri 26.5 mg/chewable tab (at least 100 million colony forming units) once daily for 30 days, while the other half did not. Spirometry and C-ACT test were conducted at the start of intervention as baseline, after one month, two months, and three months post intervention. The results of patients from the experimental group were compared to results of patients in the control group. Results: The FEV1 of patients in the L. reuteri group was significantly higher than those in the control group (p = 0.045). The median FVC of the two groups significantly differed from each other through time (p = 0.007), with the L. reuteri group having significantly higher FVC than the control group. There were statistically significant improvements in ACT scores between patients in the L. reuteri and control groups, particularly at two months and three months of treatment. Among polysensitized patients, there were significant improvements in the FEV1, FEF25–75, and FVC between the L. reuteri and control group. Conclusion: The use of L. reuteri as an adjunct was associated with significant lung function improvement and asthma symptom control amongst newly diagnosed asthmatic children. Key Words: Lactobacillus reuteri, Probiotics, Asthma, Children
Educating and Promoting Health - A Community-based Prevention and Control Program for Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections in a Community in Rodriguez, Rizal
Authors: Mendoza Diana Leah , Mercado-Asis Leilani B
Published: May 2023

The impact of soil-transmitted helminthiases on the overall health of an individual may lead to significant morbidity related to the number of worms harbored by the person. Light intensity infections usually present no significant effect on the individual except in times of more massive infections, in which complications may lead to impaired growth and physical development. With this, international and local health programs aim to increase the proportion of community households aware of proper helminthiases prevention and control strategies. Access to potable water, and drainage and disposal or reuse of household water, to safe and sanitary facilities, safe human excreta disposal, and proper management of solid waste appropriate information on prevention and treatment of soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH), and dissemination of key messages to promote safe water storage, hand washing, bathing practices, safe food handling, latrine use and wearing of shoes and regular deworming practices are recommended points of intervention to reduce the prevalence of helminthiases in children and other high-risk population groups. Guided with the principles of health promotion and education and the health program framework of the Department of Health (DOH) and World Health Organization (WHO), community health may be achieved equitably by leveraging accurate information, community mobilization, and sustainable health partnerships. Key words: Soil-Transmitted Helminths, Health Promotion, Health Education, Infectious Disease, Public Health
Clinical Profile of Genetically Confirmed Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Among Filipino Children Less Than 18 Years Old
Authors: Villaflor-Oida Lalaine B , Rosales Raymond L , Valencia Ma. Antonia Aurora M , Sy Michelle G , Jong Yuh-Jyh
Published: May 2023

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the most common inherited lethal disease in children. Confirmatory diagnosis is based on molecular genetic testing of survival motor neuron (SMN) genes. We aimed to describe the phenotypic presentation of Filipino infants and children with SMA based on the copy number analysis of SMN genes. Medical records of 17 Filipino children were reviewed from January 2017 to December 2019. De-identified clinical data fulfilled the diagnostic criteria defined by the International SMA Consortium. Among Filipino children, the predominant SMA type by copy number was type I having two copies of SMN2 gene. The clinical severity based on symptom onset and highest functional motor capacity attained correlated with SMN2 copy number congruent with existing data. A significant time lag between symptom onset to confirmation of genetic diagnosis was noted. Nine out of the 17 (52%) children did not have a family history of the disease, raising the possibility of mutation carriers in these families since the incidence of de novo mutations in literature is about 2%. These data offered the first epidemiological pattern of genetically confirmed SMA among Filipino children; provided additional information for genetic counselling; and an avenue to consider pre-symptomatic newborn screening and carrier testing that would change proactive measures and opportunities for therapy. These measures unavoidably will decrease the incidence and prevalence of disease in the future. Key words: Clinical profile, spinal muscular atrophy, genetically-confirmed, Filipino children, survival motor neuron
Body Dysmorphia and Selfie Behavior of Filipino Patients With and Without Mild Acne Vulgaris: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Santiago Carina Callangan , King-Ismael Daisy , Reyes Marc Eric S
Published: May 2023

Background: Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is non-life-threatening but may cause significant psychological morbidity regardless of severity. An extreme case of this is depicted in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which is often an undiagnosed condition presenting with excessive preoccupation of perceived flaws not observable by others. With the increasing popularity of social media throughout the years, there has been budding researches exploring its psychological implications, particularly on “selfies” and its possible association with self-image and body dysmorphia. Objectives: To compare body dysmorphic symptoms and selfie behavior between patients with mild AV versus those without AV. Methods This is a single-center, cross-sectional study among patients with mild AV and those without AV seen through a teledermatology platform of a tertiary hospital from April to June 2022. Results: A total of 207 patients were included in this study – 107 patients with mild AV and 100 patients without AV. A significantly higher proportion of BDD symptoms was seen in patients with mild AV using either Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire-Dermatology Version (BDDQ-DV) (31%) and Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire (DCQ) (14%). No significant difference was noted in terms of selfie behavior between the groups. Conclusions: BDD symptoms were significantly more prevalent in patients who have mild AV despite having lesions that are negligible and clinically not apparent. This highlights the importance of dermatologists’ knowledge that BDD may cause distress and impairment and should be taken into consideration in terms of management. Interestingly, selfie behavior of patients with mild AV and without AV had no significant difference. Key words: Body dysmorphia, acne vulgaris, social media, selfie behavior, cross-sectional
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in a Filipino Boy Reaching Adulthood, and Nine Years into Oral Corticosteroids: A Case Report
Authors: Marcelo Erwin Damian V , Rosales Raymond L
Published: May 2023

Rationale: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a disease that primarily manifests in the early stages of life and progressively affects muscle strength resulting in quadriparesis and ultimately resulting in premature death secondary to cardiac or respiratory failure. DMD is the most common x-linked genetic disorder in children that is because of an alteration of a protein called “dystrophin” which is responsible for strengthening muscle fibers and protecting them from injury as muscles contract and relax. Objective: To highlight the case of a 19-year-old male who was diagnosed with DMD at 8 years of age and treated with oral corticosteroid and rehabilitation. Case: We present the case of a 19-year-old male who developed difficulty climbing stairs and was diagnosed with DMD at 8 years old with the use of clinical exome sequencing. Corticosteroid therapy was initiated and rehabilitation perpetuated which dramatically improved his life expectancy. Discussion and Summary: Clinical exome sequencing was employed on our patient to confirm the diagnosis of DMD from other neuromuscular and neurodegenerative diseases. Most cases of DMD succumb to cardiopulmonary arrest before reaching adulthood; however, this case exemplifies DMD from other cases since our patient was able to prolong his life with continuation of oral corticosteroid and rehabilitation and in the absence of extensive life support. Key words: Progressive muscle weakness, Dystrophin, Premature death, DMD
Pseudo-Orthostatic Tremor as a Manifestation of Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A Case Report
Authors: Wiyogo Edrik , Susatia Frandy
Published: May 2023

Vitamin B12 deficiency has long been known to present with various neurological manifestations, but only rarely presents as movement disorders, especially in adults. We present the case of a 30-year-old vegan male presenting with tremors on both legs when standing which was relieved by vitamin B12 supplementation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case of slow orthostatic tremor or pseudo-orthostatic tremor caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. Key words: Vitamin B12 Deficiency, Cobalamin, Vegan, Movement Disorders, Tremor, Orthostatic Tremor, Shaky-leg Syndrome, Electromyography
Attitude and Perception Among Emergency Department Healthcare Workers on Organ Donation: A Multicenter Before and After Study
Authors: Santos Richard Henry S , Puyot Marilyn B , Convocar Pauline F , Bautista Kayleen , Mesa-Gaerlan Faith Joan , Cruz Marjorie , Cabañes Sheri Anne , Gonzales Ma. Kristella , Bautista Amerigo , Cruz Camille Sta , de Jesus Solita
Published: May 2023

In the Philippines, organ donation is regulated under the Organ Donation Act (RA7170) and promoted by the Department of Health through the Philippine Network for Organ Sharing (PHILNOS). The number of organ donors to meet the increasing demand in the country continues to lag. The emergency department (ED) was identified in several foreign studies to be a significant source of successful organ donation. This action research project investigated the attitude and perception of 125 ED healthcare workers (HCWs) from three hospitals in Metro Manila before and after an awareness event. The study reveals that ED nurses and doctors are generally supportive and hold positive perceptions and attitudes toward organ donation. Despite the positive attitude, HCWs seem to be uncomfortable or unwilling to perform tasks important to organ donation such as approaching relatives and management of the deceased organ donor. Future training on organ donation will increase the positive attitude, confidence and likelihood to participate in organ donation and transplant activities. Key words: Organ Donation; Attitude and Perception; Emergency Department
Mental Health and Well-being of PhilHealth Frontline Workers
Authors: Adsuara Maribeth M , Arpas Ma Katerina Denise P , Chavez Sheila P , Ortiz Aira Jane A , Mabanglo August S , Litilit Arianne B
Published: May 2023

Background: The mental health and well-being of PhilHealth frontline workers were investigated to inform decision-makers and organizations in developing policies and programs to promote welfare of employees, thereby subsequently improving productivity and service delivery. Objectives: The study aimed to describe the demographic profile of participants and their level of mental health and well-being as well as to determine if a significant relationship exists between the said variables. Methodology: This is descriptive research that gathered respondents’ socio-demographic data. The target population was PhilHealth frontline workers all over the Philippines. Two existing self-report scales were used to measure the mental health and well-being of respondents. Statistical tools were then used to interpret data. Results: The majority of demographic factors were related to mild anxiety levels. The mean scores suggest that ages 20-29 are more anxious than those aged 50 and above. Other findings noted that the position title of Administrative Aide III and place of assignment in PhilHealth Regional Office II and XII showed a severe level of anxiety. Mean scores also showed mild anxiety as the length of years working in the corporation increased. In conclusion, age, years in service and place of assignment have a significant negative impact on participants’ mental health. Conclusion: In conclusion, age, years in service and the place of assignment were the variables found to have a statistically recognizable impact on mental health and well-being of PhilHealth frontline workers. These findings were considered in proposing Mental Health Programs for PhilHealth employees. Key words: Mental Health, Well-being, Frontliner, PhilHealth
Evidence-Based Teaching (EBT) in Medical Education: Addressing the Challenges of Bridging Didactic Knowledge to Clinical Application
Authors: Mercado-Asis Leilani B , Marcial Melvin R
Published: May 2023

Although evidence-based teaching has been adopted in various learning disciplines, its adoption in medical education remains challenging. To graduate a full-fledged well-rounded physician equipped to face the real-world challenges of diagnosis and treating diseases is the ultimate goal of every medical institution. Medical students’ clinical competence is anchored on the approach of facilitators’ acquired teaching expertise and how they apply learned techniques to connect basic knowledge to clinical skill enhancement. Are these approaches within the realm of evidence-based teaching? The subsequent discussion will elaborate on proven effective strategies [Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Outcome-Based Education (OBE)] and how a strategic teaching and learning tool [Target-Oriented Clinical Skill Enhancement (TOCSE)] has proven to address the issue. Key words: medical education, evidence-based teaching, student motivation, didactic knowledge, clinical application, Target-Oriented Clinical Skill Enhancement (TOCSE)
Pengaruh Activity Daily Living (ADL ) Dan Kegiatan Rutin Lansia Di Panti Werda Terhadap Tingkat Depresi Pada Lansia Di Panti Werda Dinas Sosial Propinsi Jawa Tengah
Authors: Ismiriyam Fiktina Vifri , Wulansari Wulansari
Published: May 2023

ABSTRACTÂ The routine activities of the orphanage are routine activities carried out at the nursing home in accordance with the procedures determined by the social service for the management of the nursing home in order to meet the physical and psychosocial needs of the elderly and increase the ability of Activity Daily Living (ADL) in the elderly. The elderly who live in social institutions have a higher risk of developing or experiencing depression than the elderly who live with their family. The activities of this orphanage focus on meeting individual needs from the biopsychosocial and spiritual aspects. This study aims to see whether or not there is an effect of daily activities in the nursing home on the level of depression in the elderly. The research design was a pre-experimental one group pretest-posttest. The study consisted of 28 research respondents who were taken by purposive sampling technique. Depression levels were measured by the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). The respondents' level of depression was mild to moderate. The values of the GDS values before and after, with p value = 0.053 (p> 0.05). The results of this study indicate that there is no significant effect of daily routine activities on the level of depression in the nursing home, but this routine activity maintains the stability of depression levels in the elderly. Panti can find additional special interventions to treat depression in the elderly.Â Keywords: Â routine daily activities, GDS, depression in the elderly