bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C: many years of real clinical experience
Authors:   Center for the Treatment of Chronic Viral Hepatitis, Infectious Clinical Hospital No 1, Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation, Nurmukhametova E.A. , Blokhina N.P. ,   Center for the Treatment of Chronic Viral Hepatitis, Infectious Clinical Hospital No 1, Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation, Tikhonova N.Yu. ,   Gilead Sciences Russia LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: April 2022

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have significantly changed the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and the prognosis for patients since their introduction into clinical practice in 2014–2015. Objective. Study of the evolution and efficacy of antiviral therapy (AVT) for CHC based on the results of providing medical care to patients in Moscow in 2002–2020. Patients and methods. The study was conducted in the Center for the Treatment of Chronic Viral Hepatitis “Infectious Clinical Hospital No 1 of the Moscow City Health Department”. For quantitative variables, the mean and standard deviation were used, while for categorical variables, frequency and proportion were counted (%). Results. 69,745 patients were diagnosed with CHC among all the patients who were examined in the Center. The pooled SVR rate of various therapy regimens was as follows in the HCV genotype 1 (GT1) cohort: IFN + ribavirin – 41.7%; DAAs + PegIFN + ribavirin – 77.4%; IFN-free regimens – 94.0%. Age older than 40 years, diabetes mellitus (DM), history of AVT failure (retreatment), and liver cirrhosis (LC) adversely affected the achievement of SVR. In the patients with HCV GT2 and GT3, the IFN + ribavirin combination allowed SVR achievement in 68.5% of patients, while IFN-free regimens were effective in 95.2% of patients. The predictive factors for achieving SVR were similar to those in the GT1 subgroup, except that the effect of age and DM did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions. The efficacy of DAAs in real clinical practice significantly exceeds the efficacy of IFN-based regimens in patients with various HCV infection genotypes. Achievement of SVR as a result of AVT reduces the likelihood of LC and HCC development. Key words: viral hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, antiviral therapy, peginterferon, interferon-free, dual therapy, triple therapy
Hepatitis C disease burden in the Russian Federation: from the real-life situation to strategy
Authors:   National Medical Research Center of Phthisiopulmonology and Infectious Diseases, Moscow, Russian Federation, Chulanov V.P. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Gorodin V.N. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russian Federation, Sagalova O.I. ,   South Ural State Medical University, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation, Ivanova M.R. ,   Center for the Prevention and Control of AIDS and Infectious Diseases, Nalchik, Russian Federation, Kravchenko I.E. ,   Kazan State Medical University, Kazan, Russian Federation, Simakova A.I. ,   Pacific State Medical University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation, Tragira I.N. ,   National Medical Research Center of Phthisiopulmonology and Infectious Diseases, Moscow, Russian Federation, Khabudaev V.A. ,   Irkutsk Regional Infectious Diseases Clinical Hospital, Irkutsk, Russian Federation, Esaulenko E.V. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation,   Pasteur Saint Petersburg Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Shestakova I.V. ,   Infectious Clinical Hospital No 2 of the Moscow Healthcare Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: April 2022

Objective. To model the current and future impact of the chronic hepatitis C disease burden if the current treatment paradigm continues and is effective and if WHO strategy is implemented successfully. Materials and methods. A dynamic disease progression model was constructed in Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corp., USA) in collaboration with CDA (Center for Disease Analysis, USA) similar to that used in previous studies. As no accurate data on HCV prevalence in Russia and its federal subjects is available, calculations were based on the prevalence of 2.5% and 4.1%. Results. The modelling suggests that, unless the treatment paradigm is changed, the chronic hepatitis C prevalence will remain the same, whereas the mortality and the rate of other HCV-related outcomes (HCC, decompensated cirrhosis) will more than double by 2030. Achieving WHO global strategy targets in Russia will help reduce the total number of infected individuals by 90% and the number of liver-related deaths by 65% saving >45,000 or >77,000 lives under the scenarios with 2.5% and 4.1% prevalence respectively. However, such trends will only take place if WHO strategy is implemented successfully. Conclusion. Regardless of the epidemiologic input data, elimination of HCV infection in Russia appears feasible; however, it requires financial support from the government and a range of organizational measures. Key words: HCV infection, chronic HCV infection, WHO strategy, antiviral therapy
Dynamics of seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in non-vaccinated people
Authors:   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russian Federation, Gorodin V.N. , Redko A.N. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russian Federation, Skoblikov N.E. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russian Federation, Zhukova L.I. ,   Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russian Federation
Published: April 2022

Objective. To assess the dynamics of seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the population of non-vaccinated people. Materials and methods. During two months of the last quarter of 2020 (before the start of mass vaccination against the coronavirus infection), we analyzed the dynamics of the level of total anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and level of virus-neutralizing IgG (anti-RBD/S1) in 806 unvaccinated people without clinical signs of the disease Results. Upon first examination, 16.0% of participants were found to have positive total anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG, while 82.6% were negative and 1.4% had indeterminate result. During two months of the pandemic, seroprevalence increased by 23.7% (from 16.0% to 39.7%). The proportion of people with an indeterminate result remained the same (1.4%). The proportion of patients with asymptomatic COVID-19 who were initially IgG-positive but became negative in two months was 5.4%. Some individuals with positive total anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG were found to have non-reactive anti-RBD antibodies that did not ensure neutralization of coronavirus (17.8% upon first and 10.6% upon second examination). Key words: dynamics of antibody level, non-reactive anti-RBD SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, new coronavirus infection, COVID-19
Ethnobotanical investigation of medicinal plants of serawai tribe in Bengkulu as a potential of biology teaching materials
Authors: Halhaji Prendi Niki , Suryadarma I Gusti Putu
Published: April 2022

The Serawai tribe is one of the indigenous tribes who live in the Bengkulu Province. The Serawai people still use medicinal plants because of the high trust of the Serawai people towards traditional medicine. Local plants have enormous potential to be developed as a source of learning biology. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to obtain information about the species of plants used by the Serawai tribal community in Tanjung Aur Village, Bengkulu as medicinal plants that have the potential as learning resources in biology learning at the high school level. The ethnobotanical studies covered include plant species, plant families, organs used, processing methods, and use value indexes (UV) for each plant. The ethnobotany study in this research used a qualitative descriptive-analytical method. Based on the results of the ethnobotanical study, there are 44 species of medicinal plants and 23 families. The most widely used plant part is the leaf with a percentage of 52.27%. The highest Use Value is Kaempferia galangal L from the Zingebareceae family. Based on the curriculum, the results of the investigation of medicinal plants can be used as teaching materials in biodiversity and plant topics for the grade of 10-th of high school. Teaching materials can form to be learning modules of medicinal plants.
Caricatures and comics based on gender towards concept understanding: A learning media on environmental pollution
Authors: Baga Sisean , Aqil Deden Ibnu , Rosaline Maria Magdalena
Published: April 2022

One crucial thing in environmental learning is how gender-based media is not yet used optimally to improve concept understanding in the classroom. Students will not develop pro-environmental concerns and behavior if they do not understand pollution and environmental issue. This study aims to prove the influence of learning media and gender on understanding environmental pollution concepts in a Secondary High School in Jakarta, Indonesia. The method used is an experiment with a 2 x 2 factorial design. The sample is taken based on the stratified random sampling technique that consists of 40 students with 20 males and 20 females from two Senior High Schools in Jakarta, Indonesia. The instrument used in this study was 32 multiple choice questions to measure students' understanding, consisting of translating, interpreting, and extrapolating dimensions. The data analysis interpretation shows an interaction effect between learning media and gender on understanding the environmental pollution concept. Therefore, this study recommends that teachers use various media such as caricatures and comics that are proven usable to accommodate gender differences and enhance conceptual understanding in the classroom.
The effectiveness of brain-based learning model (BBL) integrated with the whole brain teaching (WBT) model toward students’ retention
Authors: Handayani Baiq Sri , Purwati Nining
Published: April 2022

Retention of learning results is a measurement of students’ ability to remember the lesson being learned after an amount of time before. This research aimed at investigating the effectiveness of the Brain-Based Learning Model (BBL) integrated with the Whole Brain Teaching (WBT) model on the retention of students’ learning results. This research was a quasi-experiment using a posttest-only control group design. The population of this research was the students of State Junior High Schools in Malang in the 2017/2018 academic year. The samples were selected from State Junior High School 1, State Junior High School 4, State Junior high School 6, State Junior High School 8, State Junior High School 15, State Junior High School 17, Junior high school 25, and Junior High School 26. The results of the data analysis showed that the learning model provides a significant effect on the retention of students’ science learning in Junior High schools in Malang. LSD notation shows that the effect of the WBT model integrated BBL model on student learning retention is lower as much as 6,79% and significantly different compared to the WBT model. The effect of that model is significantly different from the effect of BBL learning but higher as much as 8,06% and significantly different compared to the effect of the BBL learning model as well as higher (14,12%) and significantly different compared to the effect of conventional learning.
No Effect of Oral Mecobalamin on Skin Numbness at 3 Months After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Ruangsomboon Pakpoom , Nepal Sarthak , Udomkiat Pacharapol , Unnanuntana Aasis
Published: April 2022

Background:

An area of skin numbness (AON) around an incision commonly occurs following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Mecobalamin has been shown to facilitate peripheral nerve recovery in various conditions; accordingly, the present study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of mecobalamin on AON following TKA, as compared with a placebo.

Methods:

This superiority study was a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. All patients undergoing primary TKA were assessed for eligibility. Included patients were randomized to receive either mecobalamin (500 µg, twice daily) or placebo (corn starch powder; 500 µg, twice daily) for 3 months. The primary outcome was the change in the AON around the surgical site from 2 weeks to 3 months after TKA. Secondary outcomes included the rates of different adverse events, functional outcomes, and visual analogue scale patient satisfaction scores.

Results:

A total of 154 patients were enrolled, with 77 patients each in the mecobalamin and placebo groups. The mean AON among patients in the mecobalamin group was 61.6 cm2 at baseline (2 weeks) and 29.1 cm2 at 3 months, compared with 55.9 cm2 and 33.2 cm2 among patients in the placebo group, respectively. Intention-to-treat analysis showed no significant difference in the change in AON around the surgical site between the 2 groups (mean difference, 7.5; 95% confidence interval, −4.2 to 25.3; p = 0.159). The rates of adverse events, functional outcomes, and visual analogue scale patient satisfaction score were also not significantly different between groups.

Conclusions:

Mecobalamin did not demonstrate superiority over a placebo in reducing the AON around the surgical site at 3 months after primary TKA.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Writing mathematics collaboratively in online workshops
Authors: Carey Rachael Marie , Cox Charles Garnet , Donald Andrew , Gunns Jos
Published: April 2022

This case study examines the changes that were made to workshops for first year mathematics students when moving from in-person to online in the 2020/21 academic year. In the workshops, students tackle unfamiliar problems in small groups, with a focus on group work and mathematical communication skills. Transitioning to online workshops presented several difficulties around how best to enable students to have meaningful mathematical discussions and collaborate in writing their solutions when working online. We discuss the changes and mitigations we implemented in order to move the workshops online and how this will inform future in-person workshops.
Engaging with Maths Online - teaching mathematics collaboratively and inclusively through a pandemic and beyond
Authors: Jones Matthew , Megeney Alison , Sharples Nick
Published: April 2022

This case study details several concrete approaches to integrating the use of student-loaned iPads in the teaching of mathematics in Higher Education. Although there is a scarcity of rigorous studies into the efficacy of tablet devices for improved educational outcomes, previous case studies have argued that tablet devices, if used, should be integrated into the whole learning experience. The mathematics teaching team at Middlesex University have developed an inclusive digital pedagogy over the last five years that enabled us to effectively respond to the remote teaching imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic by loaning iPads to all students on specialist mathematics programmes. As we begin the return to campus, we continue to integrate these devices into our teaching to address the observed “digital divide” in Generation-Z students which is characterised not by access to smart devices but by the digital skills to use them as effective learning tools. This is particularly relevant at Middlesex University which is disproportionately affected by digital poverty amongst its student population. We discuss the use of virtual whiteboard apps, the necessity of handwritten mathematics, the rich integration of multimedia content, persistent collaborative “problem solving spaces”, and how a common hardware platform allows for varied and equitable inclusive assessment. We also report the results of students’ surveys of iPad use during the remote-only 2020-21 academic year.
Fatores associados aos erros de previsão orçamentária da receita do setor público
Authors: Souza Nascimento Maria de Nazaré , Rodrigues Boente Diego
Published: April 2022

Objetivo da pesquisa: O erro de previsão foi verificado sob a perspectiva de fatores políticos e fatores econômicos, tendo como objetivo verificar quais fatores podem estar associados aos erros de previsão da receita orçamentária do setor público

Enquadramento teórico: Este trabalho se apoia na teoria econômica das expectativas adaptativas, que indica que os agentes econômicos formulam expectativas para o futuro baseando-se em fatos pretéritos.

Metodologia: A amostra da pesquisa abrange todos os municípios brasileiros, no período de 2015 a 2018. O modelo utilizado foi de dados em painel e o método de estimação foi via efeitos fixos com estimador robusto de White.

Resultados: Os resultados indicam que os municípios que erram hoje tendem em média continuar errando no futuro, e assim causando, por exemplo, a superestimação da receita, podendo então prejudicar a execução das despesas, provocando um aumento do déficit público, aumento de despesas inscritas em restos a pagar entre outros problemas. A implicação destes resultados indica, sobretudo, que os municípios, antes de se preocuparem com questões exógenas para gerenciar este erro de previsão, devem se preocupar com fatores internos como melhores modelos de previsão.

Originalidade: Este trabalho se diferencia dos demais, pois utiliza de fatores políticos econômicos, testando se essas variáveis se associam ao erro de previsão em municípios do Brasil.

Contribuições teóricas e práticas: Este estudo evidencia informações relevantes do erro contínuo de previsões orçamentárias, permitindo assim que os gestores públicos municipais avaliem futuras decisões dos recursos que serão previstos para execução de produtos e serviços ofertados a sociedade.
Ejercicio aeróbico y tratamiento farmacológico en pacientes hospitalizados con depresión: revisión de la literatura.
Authors: Polanco Zuleta Karen Melissa , Guillén Ramírez Marvin Eliseo , Cocca Armando , López-Walle Jeanette M.
Published: April 2022

El ejercicio físico ha tomado presencia en el campo investigativo como complemento del tratamiento para el trastorno depresivo mayor (TDM). Por tanto, el objetivo fue analizar las diferentes intervenciones de programas de ejercicio aeróbico y tratamiento farmacológico en pacientes hospitalizados con TDM. Se realizó una busque bibliográfica en PubMed, Cochrane Library y Scopus, entre el año 2000 y 2019, seleccionando estudios con pacientes hospitalizados de 18 años en adelante diagnosticados con TDM bajo tratamiento farmacológico en conjunto a una intervención de ejercicio aeróbico. De los artículos seleccionados se obtuvo información como tipo de ejercicio y duración, entre otras características. De un total de 599 artículos, se identificaron 10 artículos potenciales evidenciando una respuesta positiva de los programas de ejercicios aeróbicos sobre los síntomas depresivos de los pacientes. Sin embargo, la frecuencia y duración fueron variables. En conclusión, hay necesidad de estandarizar un programa de ejercicio en hospitales psiquiátricos como tratamiento coadyuvante para el TDM.
Distribución del Inventario Breve de Síntomas (BSI-18) en una muestra de mujeres con cáncer de mama en México
Authors: Miaja Avila Melina , Moral de la Rubia Dr. Josè
Published: April 2022

Objetivo. Describir la distribución del Inventario Breve de Síntomas (BSI-18) y compararla con la distribución normativa de Derogatis, y comparar el porcentaje de casos de distrés y media en el BSI-18 con otros estudios. Material y métodos. Se utilizó un muestreo no probabilístico intencional. Se aplicó el BSI-18 a 203 mujeres mexicanas tratadas por cáncer de mama. Resultados. La distribución del BSI-18 mostró asimetría positiva, no ajustándose a una curva normal, y fue estadísticamente equivalente a la de Derogatis. El porcentaje de casos de distrés, usando como punto de corte la puntuación T de 63 con los baremos de Derogatis, fue 14.8%, que es un porcentaje estadísticamente equivalente al de Derogatis (10%), pero menor al de otros estudios (media de 30%). También la media aritmética fue estadísticamente equivalente a la de Derogatis. Conclusiones. El BSI-18 debe ser baremado por percentiles, siendo válidos los baremos de Derogatis en mujeres mexicanas.
Diferencias de Géner, Vulnerabilidad, Autoestima y Competencia Percibida en Infarto de Miocardio
Authors: Jordá-Jordá Aránzazu , Rueda Laffond Beatriz
Published: April 2022

Marco teórico: Existen diferencias de género en muchos de los factores psicosociales de riesgo y de ajuste en la enfermedad crónica, pero son pocos los estudios que se han centrado en el infarto de miocardio. Objetivos: Se examinaron las diferencias de género en vulnerabilidad psicológica (VP), autoestima (AU), competencia percibida (CP), satisfacción vital y aceptación en pacientes con Infarto de Miocardio (IM). Se examinó la relación y la capacidad predictiva de VP, CP y AU con la aceptación de la enfermedad y la satisfacción. Método: La muestra se compuso de 55 pacientes (25 mujeres, 30 hombres), ingresados en un centro hospitalario por IM. Los diferentes factores se evaluaron a través de la administración de un cuadernillo elaborado con las diferentes escalas psicométricas. El nivel de significación empleado en todos los análisis fue de p<.05. Resultados: Las mujeres puntuaron más alto en VP y más bajo en AU, CP, Aceptación y Satisfacción. La VP se asoció negativamente con la aceptación, la AU y la CP se relacionaron positivamente con la satisfacción vital y la aceptación. La AU y la CP mostraron una capacidad predictiva positiva en cuanto a satisfacción, mientras que la AU predijo de manera positiva aceptación. Conclusiones: Es necesario considerar intervenciones específicas para mujeres con IM. El incremento en CP y AU puede contribuir a mejorar la satisfacción y la calidad de vida, en general, en los pacientes con IM.
Programa de Auto-cambio Dirigido en abuso de alcohol en población española: un estudio de caso
Authors: Carballo José Luis , Coloma Carmona Ainhoa , Sobell Linda C. , Sobell Mark B.
Published: April 2022

Introducción: Aunque existe evidencia de la efectividad de intervenciones breves para disminuir el consumo problemático de alcohol, son escasos los datos en población española. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar, por primera vez en España, la efectividad del Programa de Auto-Cambio Dirigido (Guided Self-Change Treatment; GSCT). Método: Se aplicaron 4 sesiones individuales con frecuencia semanal del programa a una consumidora de alto riesgo de alcohol. Resultados: Los resultados indican una disminución del consumo de alcohol de 42 a 0 unidades de bebida estándar por semana y un aumento de la autoeficacia percibida, manteniéndose en el seguimiento a 6 meses. Conclusiones: Como ya señalaron estudios anteriores en población latinoamericana, el GSCT parece ser efectivo en la reducción del consumo de alcohol y las consecuencias negativas asociadas al mismo.
Depresión y ansiedad en pacientes hospitalizados en el servicio de Medicina Interna del Hospital Escuela Universitario de Honduras
Authors: Martínez-Martínez Carlos A. , Mejía-Suazo Claudio J. , Landa-Blanco Miguel
Published: April 2022

Antecedentes y objetivo: La hospitalización no siempre es bien asimilada por los pacientes, generando síntomas de depresión y ansiedad. Considerando esto, el presente estudio analizó la prevalencia de síntomas de depresión y ansiedad, y su relación, en pacientes del servicio de Medicina Interna del Hospital Escuela Universitario (HEU), en Honduras. Además, se compararon los puntajes de ansiedad y depresión en base al sexo, presencia de hábitos tóxicos y experiencias previas de hospitalización de los informantes. Materiales y métodos: La investigación se enmarcó en un enfoque cuantitativo, no experimental, de corte trasversal. Tomando una muestra de 92 pacientes de las salas de Medicina Interna del HEU. La información se recolectó por medio del Cuestionario de Salud del Paciente-9 (PHQ-9), la Escala del Trastorno de Ansiedad Generalizada-7 (GAD-7) y una ficha de datos sociodemográficos. Resultados: El 67.4% de los pacientes presentó algún grado de sintomatología depresiva, siendo prevalentes los síntomas moderados (29.3%). El 51.1% de los pacientes presentaba ansiedad, predominando los síntomas leves (29.3%). Existe relación moderada, pero significativa, entre la depresión y la ansiedad de los evaluados. No se encontró diferencia significativa en los puntajes de depresión y ansiedad según el sexo del informante, la presencia de hábitos tóxicos o las experiencias previas de hospitalización. Conclusiones: Es necesario que los entes de salud pública realicen abordajes integrales, en donde no sólo se enfatice el componente fisiológico, sino, además, el bienestar psicológico en pacientes no-psiquiátricos hospitalizados.
Estilos de afrontamiento al estrés, ansiedad y neuroticismo en estudiantes universitarios con mialgia temporomandibular: Un estudio de casos y controles
Authors: Soto Goñi Xabier Ander , Viñals Ana Cristina , Pérez-González Fabian , Sánchez-Labrador Luis , Dominguez-Gordillo Adelaida , Sánchez-Sánchez Teresa , Ardizone-García Ignacio , Jiménez-Ortega Laura
Published: April 2022

Los pacientes que sufren dolor debido a trastornos temporomandibulares (TTM) presentan mayores niveles de distrés psicológico, estrés ambiental, síntomas somáticos, ansiedad, depression, cogniciones de catastrofización, y otras estrategias de afrontamiento al dolor alteradas, comparados con personas libres de dolor. Sin embargo, poco se conoce acerca de los factores psicológicos involucrados en diferentes tipos de TTM. Además, independientemente de la gravedad o el tipo de TTM, el papel de los estilos y estrategias de afrontamiento al estrés en los TTM todavía no está claro. El principal objetivo de este trabajo es estudiar los estilos de afrontamiento al estrés, ansiedad y rasgos de personalidad en un grupo de estudiantes de odontología que sufren mialgia temporomandibular. Una muestra de 102 estudiantes universitarios fue incialmente reclutada para este estudio. Tras una evaluación clínica, se formaron un grupo de estudiantes con mialgia (24 participantes) y un grupo de estudiantes control (24 participantes). Los participantes de ambos grupos fueron posteriormente evaluados en ansiedad, estrategias de afrontamiento al estrés, y rasgos de personalidad. El grupo con myalgia mostró mayor rasgo de ansiedad y neuroticismo que el grupo control. Los participantes con myalgia también mostaron un mayor uso de estrategias de afrontamiento evitativas. Las estrategias evitativas generalmente se han considerado como desadaptativas, y se ha visto que incrementan el estrés percibido, un fuerte predictor de TTM.
Commercial complementary food in Germany: a market survey
Authors: Alexy Ute , Dilger June Joann , Koch Stefanie
Published: April 2022

Background: As consumption of commercial complementary food (CCF) during infancy and toddlerhood is common, the aim of the present study was to describe the current (2020) German market of CCF products targeted at infants and toddlers with a special focus on ingredients, macronutrients, and the practice of nutrient fortification.Methods: Information on age declarations, ingredients, energy and nutrient contents, and nutrient fortification was obtained in a market survey by contacting the producers and searching manufacturers' websites. Each product was assigned to one of thirteen product categories (menus, milk-cereal-meal, fruit-cereal-meal, oil, vegetables, meat, fish, fruits, cereals, snack foods, pouches, desserts, beverages). Descriptive statistics were used in order to give an overview of the available products.Results: We identified 1057 CF products on the German market (infants’ CCF (< 12 months): n=829; toddlers’ CCF (> 12 months): n=228)). Highest protein content (% of energy content, %E) was found in meat products. In pouches, beverages, cereal fruit meals, and fruits, more than 50 % of energy came from total sugar . Highest median salt content was found in toddlers’ menus and desserts. Around one third of infants’ CCF products and one quarter of toddlers’ products were fortified with nutrients. Vitamin B1 (thiamin) was the most frequently fortified nutrient, followed by vitamin C, iron, calcium, and vitamin D. Apple was the type of fruit listed most often in products with fruits, whereas carrot was the most frequent vegetable among CCF with vegetables. Conclusion: In particular the high sugar content of most CCFs currently available on the German market may promote unhealthy dietary habits. Parents need to be educated about the optimal selection of products.
Prevalence of Thrombocytopenia and Its Associated Factors Among Neonates Admitted in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Addis Ababa Public Hospitals, Ethiopia 2020/21(Cross Sectional Study)
Authors: Wodaje Markos , Tadele Niguse , Lijaemiro Hana , Demtse Asrat , Birhanu Dires , Tadele Hana , Belege Fekadeselassie
Published: April 2022

Background: Thrombocytopenia is one of the most frequent hematologic disorders encountered in the sick neonate. This is evidenced by a fairly high prevalence among neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit 22%-35%, especially in very-low-birth-weight and preterm neonates its prevalence is up to 70%-80%. In Africa, the prevalence of neonatal thrombocytopenia in Nigeria is 53%, 12.4% in Tunisia, and 16.2% in Libya. However, in Ethiopia, there is limited study assessed both its prevalence and associated factors. Objective: to assess the prevalence of thrombocytopenia and its associated factors among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit at public hospitals in Addis Ababa in 2020/21.Method: Institution based cross sectional study was conducted at NICU of selected Addis Ababa public hospitals from February 15thto March 15th, 2021. Single population proportion formula was used to determine sample size. The final sample size was 423. The collected data entered using Epi data and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Variables that have P-value<0.05in bivariable entered in to multivariable logistic regression model to control for confounder. Statistical significance declared at p-value <0.05.Results: The prevalence of neonatal thrombocytopenia in the study area is 66%.In this study variables such as eclampsia(AOR=4.8, 95%CI: 2.66-13.94), Prolonged rupture of membrane(AOR=0.26, 95%CI:0.101-0.669), Intra uterine growth retardation(AOR=0.26, 95%CI: 0.1-0.68), neonatal sepsis (AOR=11.98, 95%CI: 4.023-25.7), Perinatal asphyxia(AOR=6.68, 95%CI: 2.616-17.6), Necrotizing enterocolitis (AOR=14.6, 95%CI: 2.84-35.61) and prolonged nothing per mouth(AOR=0.243,95%CI: 0.084-0.705) were factors associated with neonatal thrombocytopenia.Conclusion and recommendation: Prevalence of neonatal thrombocytopenia in Addis Ababa public hospitals neonatal intensive care unit is high. Therefore, identifying factors associated with it used as an input in reducing the problem.
New Formulas for the Trigonometry of Isosceles Triangles
Authors: King Noah
Published: April 2022

This paper discusses a new formula to solve for the angle of isosceles triangles given proportion of differentiated unequivalent edge length versus the always-equivalent edges. The equation is equal to the arcsine of (X/2) multiplied by two. This formula is to be called ‘isn^-1(x)’, short for inverse isosceles sine equivalent. Also discussed is the non-inverse ‘isn(x)’ which is the cyclic function which is determined to correspond as the equivalent of the classic sine formula to isosceles triangles. The formula set is clearly superior and powerful at calculating the angle and measure of any given obtuse or acute triangle of an unclassified type, as well as unifying a simplest-fit formula across all types of triangle.
Extracellular vesicle-associated microRNA-138-5p regulates embryo implantation and early pregnancy by adjusting GPR124
Authors: Wu Hsien-Ming , Lo Zi-Chi , Tsai Chia-Lung , Chen Liang-Hsuan , Huang Hong-Yuan , Wang Hsin-Shih , Yu John
Published: April 2022

Background
Functional embryo-maternal interactions occur during the embryo implantation and placentation. Extracellular vesicles with microRNA (miRNA) between cells have been considered of critical importance for embryo implantation and programming of human pregnancy. MicroRNA-138-5p functions as the transcriptional regulator of GPR124. However, the mechanism of microRNA-138-5p- and GPR124-regulated NLRP3 inflammasome activation remains unclear. In this study, we examine the roles of microRNA-138-5p and GPR124-regulated inflammasome in embryo implantation and early pregnancy.
Methods
Human decidual stromal cells were isolated from the abortus tissue, collected by curettage from missed abortion patients and normal pregnant women at 6- to 12-wk gestation, after informed consent. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of isolated extracellular vesicles were obtained. NGS and microarray were performed for miRNAs analysis. The predicated target genes of the differentially expressed miRNA were analyzed to identify the target genes and their pathway.
Results
Isolated extracellular vesicles from decidua and decidual stromal cells were confirmed by TEM images. We demonstrated the down-regulation of miR-138-5p and the overexpression of GPR124 in spontaneous miscarriage compared to normal pregnancy. We also showed the excessive activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in spontaneous miscarriage compared to normal pregnancy.
Conclusions
Here we newly demonstrate that the miR-138-5p and GPR124-regulated NLRP3 inflammasome were expressed in extracellular vesicles derived from decidua and decidual stromal cells, indicating the miR-138-5p, GPR124 and NLRP3 inflammasome have potential modulatory role on decidual programming and placentation of human pregnancy. Our findings represent a new concept regarding the role of extracellular vesicles, miR-138-5p, GPR124, and NLRP3 inflammasome in normal early pregnancy and spontaneous miscarriage.
Big Data and Artificial Intelligence Application in Energy Field: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Hou Yali , Wang Qunwei
Published: April 2022

This paper uses bibliometrics to characterize the knowledge systems of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and energy based on the Science Citation Index Extension (SCI-E) and Social Science Citation Index (SSCI) of the Web of Science from 2001 to 2020. Results show that the most influential country in the field is the United States, with an h-index of 75. The Chinese Academy of Sciences publishes the largest number of papers and plays a vital role in the collaboration network. The study also reveals that the IEEE Access and Energies are the most productive journals in terms of the number of publications, and engineering is the most popular subject. The key theoretical foundation includes deep learning, reinforcement learning, energy big data and prediction of energy consumption. The application of big data and AI in the field of energy focuses on smart grid, energy consumption and renewable energy. Early research frontiers involve optimization and prediction of energy-related problems using the genetic algorithm and neural networks. Since 2013, energy big data have gained prominence. At present, machine learning, deep learning and fog computing are frequently combined with energy saving. In the future, big data and AI will be utilized to promote the application of renewable energy and energy-saving renovation of buildings. These findings can help researchers understand the developmental trends and correctly grasp the research direction and method of the emerging interdisciplinary field. They can also assist energy enterprises in finding the right direction for technology investment.
Development and application of an indirect ELISA for the Neospora caninum based on a fusion protein rSRS2- SAG1-GRA7
Authors: Yang Cong-Shan , Yang Chuan-Yin , Opeyemi Ayanniyi Olalekan , Lu Zhen-Xiao , Zhang Jin-Yi , Liu Lu-Yao , Hong Yu-Hang , Cheng Rong-Rong , Zhang Xiang , Zong Qin-Qin , Zhao Hong-Xi , Xu Qian-Ming
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Neospora caninum is an important apicomplexan parasite causing neosporosis in cattle. The disease is recognized as one of the most important cause of reproductive problems and abortion in cattle worldwide. In this context, we developed an indirect ELISA with fusion protein rSRS2-SAG1-GRA7 for the diagnosis of neosporosis in aborted dairy cattle. Results: The reaction conditions of the developed indirect ELISA were optimized. This indirect ELISA was compared to indirect immunoinfluscent assay (IFA), a total of 56 sera samples from cattle were used to evaluate the ELISA, the antibodies against N. caninum were tested by this ELISA to evaluate the prevalence of N. caninum in Ningxia. The sensitivity and specificity results of the rSRS2-SAG1-GRA7 indirect ELISA were 83.33% and 100%, the overall coincidence rate was 94.64%. N. caninum was prevalent in all the 4 cities investigated in Ningxia. The positive rate was from 16.67 to 100 %, and the mean rate was 41.64%. Conclusions: This established rSRS2-SAG1-GRA7 indirect ELISA is capable of detecting serum antibodies against N. caninum, and due to its high sensitivity and specificity, it could be applied for serological evaluation and indirect diagnosis of N. caninum infection. And we assessed N. caninum seroprevalence in aborted dairy cattle from Ningxia province of China with this rSRS2-SAG1-GRA7 indirect ELISA.
An immunoPET probe to SARS-CoV-2 reveals early infection of the male genital tract in rhesus macaques
Authors: Madden Patrick , Thomas Yanique , Blair Robert , Samer Sadia , Doyle Mark , Midkiff Cecily , Doyle-Meyers Lara , Becker Mark , Arif Shoaib , McRaven Michael , Simons Lacy , Carias Ann , Martinelli Elena , Lorenzo-Redondo Ramon , Hultquist Judd , Villinger Francois , Veazey Ronald , Hope Thomas
Published: April 2022

The systemic nature of SARS-CoV-2 infection is highly recognized, but poorly characterized. A non-invasive and unbiased method is needed to clarify whole body spatiotemporal dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infection after transmission. We recently developed a probe based on the anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike antibody CR3022 to study SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis in vivo. Herein, we describe its use in immunoPET to investigate SARS-CoV-2 infection of three rhesus macaques. Using PET/CT imaging of macaques at different times post-SARS-CoV-2 inoculation, we track the 64Cu-labelled CR3022-F(ab’)2 probe targeting the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 to study the dynamics of infection within the respiratory tract and uncover novel sites of infection. Using this method, we uncovered differences in lung pathology between infection with the WA1 isolate and the delta variant, which were readily corroborated through computed tomography scans. The 64Cu-CR3022-probe also demonstrated dynamic changes occurring between 1- and 2-weeks post-infection. Remarkably, a robust signal was seen in the male genital tract (MGT) of all three animals studied. Infection of the MGT was validated by immunofluorescence imaging of infected cells in the testicular and penile tissue and severe pathology was observed in the testes of one animal at 2-weeks post-infection. The results presented here underscore the utility of using immunoPET to study the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infection to understand its pathogenicity and discover new anatomical sites of viral replication. We provide direct evidence for SARS-CoV-2 infection of the MGT in rhesus macaques revealing the possible pathologic outcomes of viral replication at these sites.
Virus surface-inspired ligand-switchable nanoparticles enable sequential drug delivery for improved oral insulin therapy
Authors: Yang Tiantian , Wang Aohua , Nie Di , Fan Weiwei , Jiang Xiaohe , Yu Miaorong , Guo Shiyan , Zhu Chunliu , Wei Gang , Gan Yong
Published: April 2022

Mutual interference between surface ligands on multifunctional nanoparticles remains a significant obstacle to achieving the optimal drug-delivery efficacy. Inspired by viruses that modulate surface proteins conformation to enable sequential display of diverse functions, we develop ligand-switchable nanoparticles modified with a pH-responsive stretchable cell-penetrating peptide (Pep) and a liver-targeting moiety (Gal) (Pep/Gal-PNPs). The acidic environments encountered after oral administration trigger the extension of Pep from the surface in a virus-like manner, enabling Pep/Gal-PNPs to efficiently traverse intestinal barriers. Subsequently, Gal is exposed by Pep folding at physiological pH, thereby allowing the specific targeting of Pep/Gal-PNPs to the liver. As a proof-of-concept, insulin-loaded Pep/Gal-PNPs are fabricated which exhibit effective intestinal absorption and excellent hepatic deposition of insulin. Crucially, Pep/Gal-PNPs increase hepatic glycogen production by 7.2-fold, contributing the maintenance of glucose homeostasis for effective diabetes management. Overall, this study provides a promising approach to achieve full potential of diverse ligands on multifunctional nanoparticles.
Sealed condition induces lower fossilization potential revealed by taphonomic experiment
Authors: Sheng Yidi , Zhang Hua , Chen Xiaozheng , Wang Wei
Published: April 2022

Understanding how remains become fossils is not a trivial process, taphonomic experiments provide important insights in this process by simulating the burial environment with modern organisms. A sealed (closed) system of high-pressure simulator has been widely used, while the unsealed condition before diagenesis is universal. Therefore, it is not fidelity to simulate the deep-water (high-pressure) environment with a closed system. The authors developed an automatic deep-water equipment ABYSSOURCE which could simulate both open and closed system. Based on ABYSSOURCE, a normal shrimp Neocaridina denticulata was applied to explore the difference between these two systems under 10±0.1 MPa (1000±10 meters in depth). This experiment focused on the decay process which is crucial to fossilization. Here we show, under the open condition, the decay rate of the sample shrimp is slower than closed one, and its preservation potential is better. A possible reason was that microbes multiplied faster in the closed system and degrade the remains stronger. These results suggested that sealed condition has not a positive effect on fossilization. By solving the challenge of material exchange in the deep-water chamber under constant pressure (±0.1 MPa), this paper provides a novel method for high-fidelity simulation of fossilization.
A unique profile of gut microbiota associated with metabolic syndrome: a remote island most afflicted by obesity in Japan
Authors: Uema Tsugumi , Millman Jasmine Frances , Okamoto Shiki , Nakamura Takehiro , Yamashiro Kiyoto , Uehara Moriyuki , Honma Ken-ichiro , Miyazato Minoru , Ashikari Asuka , Saito Seiichi , Maeda Shiro , Imamura Minako , Ishida Hajime , Matsushita Masayuki , Nakamura Koshi , Masuzaki Hiroaki
Published: April 2022

Numerous studies have revealed distinct differences in the profiles of gut microbiota between non-obese (NO) and obese (OB) individuals. To date, however, little is known if any disparities in the community of gut microbiota exist between metabolically healthy obese (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) subjects. We therefore aimed to comprehensively characterize the gut microbiota and circulating metabolites in serum from both MHO and MUO residing in the remote island, Kumejima, where the prevalence of obesity is one of the highest in Japan, and explored possible correlations between the gut microbiota profile and markers of metabolic syndrome. In our data, MUO showed significantly higher levels of g_Paraprevotella, g_Cloacibacillus, g_Atopobium and g_Megasphaera in comparison to MHO. MUO also showed significantly lower levels of g_Holdemania, f_Ruminococcaceae;g_Ruminococcus, g_Eggerthella, g_Phascolarctobacterium and f_[Mogibacteraceae];g_ as compared to MHO, with a number of these genera negatively correlating with value of circulating triglyceride, total-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol. In contrast to MHO, MUO showed an imbalance of serum metabolites, with a significant elevation in 2-oxoisovaleric acid, pyruvic acid, 2-hydroxybutyric acid, and creatine. Our data highlight unmet needs in precision approaches for the treatment of obesity, targeting the gut microbiota profile and serum metabolites in a distinct population affected by obesity.
MKK4 knockdown plays a protective role in haemorrhagic shock-induced liver injury through the JNK pathway
Authors: YAO HAO , GAO YU , HAN JIAHUI , WANG YAN , CAI JIMIN , RUI YONGJUN , GE XIN
Published: April 2022

Haemorrhagic shock (HS) triggers tissue hypoxia and organ failure during severe blood loss, and the liver is sensitive to HS. Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4 (MKK4) activates the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway, and its expression is upregulated in the serum of HS patients and mouse livers at 1 h post-HS. However, the function of MKK4 in HS-induced liver injury is unclear. The role of MKK4 was investigated in vivo using rat models of HS. Before HS, lentivirus harbouring shRNA against MKK4 was injected into rats via the tail vein to knock down MKK4 expression. HS was induced by bloodletting via intubation of the femoral artery followed by resuscitation. The results showed that MKK4 knockdown reduced HS-induced apoptosis in the liver by decreasing Bax expression and the cleavage of caspase 3 and promoting Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver was promoted, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was inhibited by HS. However, the effect of HS on oxidative stress was abrogated by MKK4 knockdown. Furthermore, MKK4 knockdown restored MMP, complex I and complex III activity and promoted ATP production, suggesting that HS-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in the liver was ameliorated by MKK4 knockdown. The inhibitory effect of MKK4 knockdown on the phosphorylation and activation of the JNK/c-Jun pathway was confirmed. Overall, MKK4 knockdown may suppress oxidative stress and subsequent apoptosis and improve mitochondrial function in the liver upon HS by inhibiting the JNK pathway. The MKK4/JNK axis was shown to be a therapeutic target for HS-induced liver injury in this study.
The complete chloroplast genomes and comparative study of the two tung trees of Vernicia (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Yang Jianjun , Chu Zhenzhou , Miao Haoyu , Liu Bingbing , TIAN XINMIN
Published: April 2022

Vernicia montana and Vernicia fordii are considered to have great economic importance in terms of having industrial oil and ornamental greening properties. However, wild resources of Vernicia trees have been reduced because of their ecology and habitat destruction. To better understand the genetic differences between V. montana and V. fordii, collecting more molecular data was necessary for further analysis. Here, we sequenced, assembled, and annotated the complete chloroplast (CP) genome of two tung trees based on the genome skimming approach. The whole CP genomes of V. montana and V. fordii were 160,906 bp and 161,494 bp in length, respectively, both of which comprised 135 genes, including 81 protein-coding genes, 29 tRNA genes, 4 rRNA genes, and 21 duplicated genes. The overall GC contents in V. montana and V. fordii CP genome were 36.13% and 36.03%, respectively. By comparing the CP genome sequences between V. montana and V. fordii, a total of 2,280 SNPs and 257 indels were identified. Among them, 1,807 SNPs and 153 indels were within the large single copy region, while 93 SNPs and 74 indels were within the small single copy region. The phylogenic analysis showed that V. montana was closely related to V. fordii and is considered a sister group. Hence, this study will be useful in investigating the conservation genetics and potential breeding applications of this oil shrub.