bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of casein & whey protein hydrolysates as well as milk fermentates from Lactobacillus helveticus for expression of gut hormones
Authors: Chaudhari Dipak Dilip , Singh Rajbir , Mallappa Rashmi Hogarehalli , Rokana Namita , Kaushik Jai Kumar , Bajaj Rajesh , Batish Virender Kumar , Grover Sunita 
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:
Milk proteins play a beneficial role in the regulation of food intake, postprandial glycaemia and enteroendocrine hormone secretions and thus are receiving considerable attention for the management of metabolic inflammatory disorders such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of peptide/s obtained from milk proteins (casein and whey) as well as from the milk fermented with Lactobacillus helveticus as secretagogues for gut hormones and to purify and characterize the active peptides.

Methods:
Effect of hydrolysates of casein protein (CP) and whey protein (WP) and L. helveticus fermented milk on the expression of proglucagon, pro-gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) and cholecystokinin (CCK) genes was monitored by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The active glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion was also quantitatively measured using ELISA.

Results:
Hydrolysates of CP and WP as well as fermentates of L. helveticus induced the proglucagon, pro-GIP and CCK expression and secretion of GLP-1 in STC-1 (pGIP/Neo) cells. However, intact casein exhibited maximum GLP-1 secretion and proglucagon expression. Two active peptides (F5 and F7) derived from CP1 and WP3 hydrolysates having the ability to upregulate the GLP-1 secretion by 1.6 and 1.8 folds were obtained, and the mass was found to be 786 and 824 Da, respectively, as determined by electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry. However, no single active peptide from L. helveticus fermented milk could be obtained.

Interpretation & conclusions:
Casein as well as fermentates obtained from L. helveticus fermented milk showed higher potential for GLP-1 induction. These can be explored as novel therapeutics to T2DM effectively after demonstrating their in vivo efficacy in appropriate animal models.
Cervical length measurement in nulliparous women at term by ultrasound & its relationship to spontaneous onset of labour
Authors: Mukherji Joydev , Bhadra Avishek , Ghosh Suhas Kumar , Hazra Avijit , Anant Monika , Bhattacharya Subir Kumar , Das Bibekananda , Banu Shabnam 
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:
Data on serial cervical length (CL) measurements in pregnancy at term to predict spontaneous labour onset are scarce and conflicting. This study was conducted to observe CL changes preceding spontaneous onset of labour, by serial transvaginal sonography (TVS) and transabdominal sonography (TAS), in nulliparous Indian women near term.

Methods:
Only nulliparous women with a singleton foetus in cephalic presentation and who confirmed their gestational age were recruited. Sonographic CL measurements were taken at weekly intervals from 36 wk gestation onwards by a single ultrasonologist. Transabdominal and transvaginal measurements were undertaken using the suitable transducer probes with the women in the supine position.

Results:
A total of 104 women with spontaneous onset of labour were evaluated. There was substantial variation in CL measurements, both by TVS and by TAS, from 36 to 40 wk gestation, although the two sets of measurements correlated closely. Mean CL changed significantly over the last three weeks before delivery. However, only one-third of the women showed CL change of >5 mm per week in the last three weeks. There was poor correlation between gestational age at delivery and the last measured CL, either by TVS or TAS. Length >3.1 mm, measured by TVS at 38 wk gestation, predicted post-dated pregnancy to a limited extent.

Interpretation & conclusions:
Inter-individual variations in CL and in CL changes were large. Thus, it was not practical to predict spontaneous onset of labour by sonographic CL measurement near term. Post-dated pregnancy may be predicted with limited success. Further studies should explore other parameters, in addition to CL.
Latent Tuberculosis Infections in Different Intensity of Exposure within Moroccan Population: Influence of Age and Bacille Calmette–Guérin Vaccination
Authors: Kadi Chaimae , Najimi Nouhaila , El Fakihi Sara , El Allam Aicha , Akil Elmahfoud , El Mtili Noureddine , El Aouad Rajae , Bourkadi Jamaleddine , Seghrouchni Fouad 
Published: December 2024

Background:
In Morocco, latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is a public health concern affected by the country’s location as transit area between sub-Saharan Africa with high TB burden to Europe. This study aimed to assess the influence of exposure intensity to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), age, and Bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccination on LTBI prevalence in Morocco.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study of 131 participants, including 98 non-exposed healthy volunteers (NEHV) and 33 healthcare workers exposed to active TB (exposed healthcare workers [EHCW]), was conducted. The Interferon-γ Release Assay (IGRA) was used to detect LTBI, and results were analyzed according to participants’ age and BCG vaccination status.

Results:
EHCW showed a higher prevalence of LTBI than NEHV (36.7% vs. 57.6%) and of EHCW were positive for LTBI. In both groups, the mean age of those with LTBI was higher than those without. Furthermore, we showed within both groups, that LTBI prevalence was positively associated with subjects less covered by BCG vaccination in comparison with subjects likely totally covered by this vaccination (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.783; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 1.180–6.57; P = 0, 01), (aOR, 6.717; 95% CI, 1.254–35.977; P = 0.02).

Conclusion:
Our results showed that in the Moroccan TB epidemic context, the prevalence of LTBI still lower among healthy adults general population than within EHCW. Furthermore, this LTBI showed to be positively impacted by age in the two condition of exposure. We also showed that BCG vaccination seems to affect the prevalence of LTBI within both high and low intensity of exposure to Mtb infection.
Enhancing Knowledge and Beliefs: The Impact of a Gender-transformative Training Program on Tuberculosis Care in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Oshi Daniel C. , Amah Patrick O. , Alobu Isaac N. , Oshi Sarah N. , Brown Sherline , Ukwaja Kingsley N. 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Gender-related barriers significantly impede care-seeking for tuberculosis (TB), leading to poor treatment outcomes. This study aimed to assess changes in knowledge and beliefs following a training program on gender-transformative TB programming among stakeholders in Southern Nigeria.

Methods:
A cross-sectional pretest/posttest design was employed to evaluate the training’s effectiveness among participants from September 2023 to March 2024. A 2-day training session was conducted using a standardized training manual. Participants included members of TB civil society organizations and other relevant stakeholders. A standardized questionnaire was administered before and after the training.

Results:
Of the 304 respondents, 160 (52.6%) were aged 40 years or younger, with a mean age of 39.6 (±10.5) years; 184 (60.5%) were female. The mean pretest knowledge score was 7.20 (±1.16), which increased to 8.44 (±1.12) posttraining (t = −15.20; P < 0.001). Similarly, the mean score for the gender responsiveness to the TB programming scale improved from 30.6 (±5.4) pretest to 32.8 (±4.9) posttest (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:
The training significantly enhanced stakeholders’ knowledge of TB and their understanding of gender responsiveness in TB programming. These findings underscore the necessity for ongoing sensitization of TB service providers and the promotion of TB education and stigma reduction efforts to ensure gender-responsive and inclusive TB service delivery. Continuous awareness initiatives are essential to challenge deep-rooted negative sociocultural beliefs and gender norms affecting TB programming.
Identification of Nontuberculous Mycobacterium and Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex in Sputum Patients with Suspected Tuberculosis
Authors: Biyang Fanny Indriyani , Massi Muhammad Nasrum , Muslich Lisa Tenriesa , Sultan Andi Rofian , Hatta Mochammad , Ramadhan Ahmad Rahmat , Madjid Baedah 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is predominantly caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and can also involve nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). These pathogens pose significant global health challenges, particularly in developing countries. Differentiating between MTBC and NTM in clinical specimens is often difficult using conventional acid-fast staining methods, leading to an underestimation of NTM prevalence in TB-endemic regions. This study aims to identify mycobacterial species in sputum samples from patients suspected of having TB, utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays and gene sequencing techniques.

Methods:
We collected 111 sputum samples from patients at Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Central General Hospital, Hasanuddin University Hospital, and Makassar Community Lung Health Center. The samples were analyzed at the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory of Hasanuddin University using standard microscopy and molecular detection techniques. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize patient demographics, infection characteristics, and outcomes.

Results:
We collected sputum from suspected TB patients with an average age of 50.86 years. We found 16.2% (n = 18) acid-fast bacteria in 111 patients with suspected pulmonary TB, and molecularly, we identified 17.1% (n = 19) Mycobacterium species by multiplex PCR. Three sputum samples tested positive for NTM. Phylogenetic analysis, based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, revealed similarities between the samples and known mycobacterial species.

Conclusions:
The study underscores the challenges in differentiating between MTBC and NTM, highlighting the necessity for molecular diagnostic approaches. Notably, we found NTM in sputum samples from patients previously treated for TB. These findings can serve as a reference for improving diagnostic accuracy and preventing misdiagnosis of mycobacterial infections.
Relevance of Angiographic Patterns in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Its Therapeutic Implications in Chronic Limb-threatening Ischemia
Authors: Singh Sumanshi , Tiwari Sapna Vishnurajesh , Sekhar Raghuram , Sheth Sharad 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
The concept of “renal foot” which has been attributed to the characteristic involvement of posterior tibial artery (PTA) and lateral plantar artery in chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) patients with end-stage renal disease as comorbidity. (Image of renal foot)

Aims and Objectives:
This concept was examined further along with its possible therapeutic implications.

Materials and Methods:
Retro-prospective, observational, single institute study carried out over 2 years in 50 chronic kidney disease (CKD) and 50 non-CKD patients who suffered from CLTI warranting an endovascular intervention.

Results:
PTA involvement was the highest in the whole study population, however, with no significant difference between the CKD and non-CKD groups. The highest number of the study group had class 4 Graziani classification and the highest number of CKD patients had class 3 Graziani reinforcing the extensive peripheral infrapopliteal involvement in CLTI.

Conclusion:
CLTI in CKD patients, though associated with more severe peripheral arterial disease, does not affect isolated vessels disproportionately. The overall morbidity and mortality were higher in the CKD group due to overall poorer health, with good healing of wounds in the rest of the population. Endovascular revascularization was effective regardless of vessel involvement or CKD status, thereby negating its therapeutic implications.
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Central Venous Pressure Using Inferior Vena Cava Characteristics: An Estimate Guide for Right Atrial Pressure in Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Hussein Muataz F. , Mohammad Wisam J. , Essa Samar Omran 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Central venous pressure (CVP) is a good approximation of right atrial pressure (RAP), which in turn is a major determinant of right ventricular filling. The inferior vena cava (IVC) is a compliant vessel whose size and shape vary with changes in CVP. IVC diameter and Collapsibility Index (CI) assessed by echocardiography are used as indirect indicators for the estimation of RAP.

Aim of the Study:
To evaluate the correlation between IVC echocardiographic characteristics and CVP and RAP and the value of assessment of IVC as a guide for the status of the right side of the heart.

Patients and Methods:
A total of sixty patients (male and female) above 18 years of age, who were admitted in the intensive care unit, were enrolled in this single-center, descriptive cross-sectional study. Echocardiographic assessment of IVC hemodynamics (IVC expiratory [IVCe] and inspiratory [IVCi] diameters and IVC-CI) were carried out. In addition to standard echocardiographic examination, right heart function measurements (Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion [TAPSE] and right atrial [RA] area) in spontaneously and mechanically ventilated patients were done.

Results:
The average age of the patients was 62 years (18–80 years). Overall, 45% (n = 27) were male and 55% (n = 33) were female. The breathing modality was mechanical ventilation in 27 (45%) patients and spontaneous breathing in 33 (55%) patients. Both IVCe and IVCi diameters showed a strong negative correlation with CI, (r = −0.920 for IVCe and r = −0.964 for IVCi) (P < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between TAPSE and IVC-CI (r = 0.857, P < 0.001). IVC-CI in mechanically ventilated patients was (mean ± standard deviation [SD], 40.11 ± 1.782) compared to spontaneous breathing (mean ± SD, 48.91 ± 1.811) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:
There is a linear relationship of IVC-CI with TAPSE but an inverse relation with RA area. Evaluation of IVC diameter and its CI is an easy and noninvasive method to estimate CVP and RAP and so evaluate right heart performance of critically ill patients. Its use is more helpful in patients who are spontaneously breathing than those who are mechanically ventilated.
Factores detonantes de enfermedades osteomusculares en trabajadores dedicados al área de corte en minería
Authors: Gonzalez Merino Mayra Elizabeth , Peralta Beltrán Álvaro Raúl 
Published: December 2024

La minería, caracterizada por exigentes demandas físicas y posturas inadecuadas, incrementa el riesgo de desarrollar enfermedades osteomusculares, afectando la salud y el rendimiento laboral, el objetivo fue identificar los factores detonantes de aparición de enfermedades osteomusculares en trabajadores del área de corte de minería. Se realizó una investigación básica, no experimental, descriptiva y transversal durante el periodo enero abril del 2024 donde el universo estuvo constituido por un total de 37 trabajadores dedicados al área de corte de minería. La muestra quedó constituida por 35 trabajadores a los cuales se les aplicó una encuesta para determinar los factores detonantes de enfermedad osteomuscular. Se estudiaron como variables las características generales de los trabajadores y los factores detonantes de enfermedades osteomusculares. Los resultados del cuestionario ERGOPAR V2.0 aplicado a 35 trabajadores evidenciaron que el 45.7% de los participantes, con una experiencia laboral menor a 5 años, presentaba afectaciones en la región lumbar. Existía una alta congruencia entre los datos obtenidos en la encuesta y los registros internos de las empresas respecto a las problemáticas mencionadas. Los resultados de la encuesta evidenciaron que las actividades manuales, especialmente la manipulación de cargas, eran un factor determinante en el desarrollo de enfermedades osteomusculares.
IceDetectNet: a rotated object detection algorithm for classifying components of aggregated ice crystals with a multi-label classification scheme
Authors: Zhang Huiying , Li Xia , Ramelli Fabiola , David Robert O. , Pasquier Julie , Henneberger Jan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract. The shape of ice crystals affects their radiative properties, growth rate, fall speed, and collision efficiency; thus, it plays a significant role in cloud optical properties and precipitation formation. Ambient conditions, like temperature and humidity, determine the basic habit of ice crystals, while microphysical processes, such as riming and aggregation, further shape them, resulting in a diverse set of ice crystal shapes and effective densities. Current classification algorithms face two major challenges: (1) ice crystals are often classified as a whole (at the image scale), necessitating identification of the dominant component of aggregated ice crystals, and (2) single-label classifications lead to information loss because of the compromise between basic habit and microphysical process information. To address these limitations, we present a two-pronged solution here: (1) a rotated object detection algorithm (IceDetectNet) that classifies each component of an aggregated ice crystal individually and (2) a multi-label classification scheme that considers both basic habits and physical processes simultaneously. IceDetectNet was trained and tested on two independent datasets obtained by a holographic imager during the NASCENT campaign in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, in November 2019 and April 2020. The algorithm correctly classified 92 % of the ice crystals as either aggregate or non-aggregate and achieved an overall accuracy of 86 % for basic habits and 82 % for microphysical process classification. At the component scale, IceDetectNet demonstrated high detection and classification accuracy across all sizes, indicating its ability to effectively classify individual components of aggregated ice crystals. Furthermore, the algorithm demonstrated a good generalization ability by classifying ice crystals from an independent generalization dataset with overall accuracies above 70 %. IceDetectNet can provide a deeper understanding of ice crystal shapes, leading to better estimates of ice crystal mass, fall velocity, and radiative properties; therefore, it has the potential to improve precipitation forecasts and climate projections.
Bruno Latour, Graham Harman, and Nonmodernism
Authors: Lovasz Adam 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Bruno Latour critiques the nature/culture binary, defining it as the fundamental dualism of modernity. To go beyond modernity, Latour proposes “nonmodernism,” the idea that the modern separation of nature and culture, along with its unavoidable anthropocentrism, never was ontologically valid to begin with. Nonmodern political philosophy takes all relations and objects seriously, without placing undue emphasis on human actions. While Latour never elaborated the nonmodern stance in great detail, Graham Harman, founder of object-oriented ontology, has pursued an elaboration of Latour’s nonmodernist project, albeit with important ontological differences. Harman takes Latour to task for placing excessive emphasis on relations. Harman holds that the inaccessible aspect of an object may be identified with substance. Harman claims that relationalist ontologies, because of their denial of objects underlying relations, cannot account for change. This article engages with Harman’s critique of Latour. While Harman correctly emphasizes that any genuinely nonmodern philosophy must go beyond a myopic focus on human power relations, this article argues that Harman is overly simplistic when equating the nonmodern possibility with substantialism alone. We may go beyond modern philosophy in a variety of ways, none of which have a monopoly on truth. Harman’s skepticism regarding knowledge can nonetheless correct certain technocratic tendencies within Latour’s political and social thought. The article’s concluding remarks engage with the new materialist scholar Arianne Françoise Conty’s critique of Latour’s Parliament of Things concept.
Edukasi Anti-Bullying di Sekolah Dasar: Membangun Budaya Positif di Kalangan Siswa
Authors: Isnayanti Andi Nur , Kamil Muhammad Nazimuddin Al , AR Muslim , Mas’adi Mas’adi 
Published: December 2024

Edukasi anti-bullying di Sekolah Dasar (SD) memiliki peran yang sangat penting dalam membangun budaya positif di kalangan siswa yang bertujuan untuk menciptakan lingkungan sekolah yang aman, inklusif, dan mendukung perkembangan positif bagi siswa. Bullying dapat berdampak buruk pada kesehatan mental dan perkembangan sosial anak, sehingga upaya pencegahan sejak dini sangat diperlukan. Pengabdian masyarakat dengan judul “Edukasi Anti-Bullying di Sekolah Dasar: Membangun Budaya Positif di Kalangan Siswa” dilaksanakan dilakukan dengan tujuan untuk mengedukasi siswa mengenai pentingnya menciptakan lingkungan sekolah yang bebas dari bullying. Kegiatan ini akan dilaksanakan di SD Inpres 8 Mamboro, yang terletak di Jalan Trans Sulawesi No 158 Kelurahan Mamboro Barat, Kecamatan Palu Utara, Kota Palu. Adapun Sasaran dari kegiatan ini adalah siswa Sekolah Dasar kelas 5 dan 6, dengan jumlah total sekitar 49 siswa yang terbagi dalam 2 kelompok di SD Inpres 8 Mamboro. Metode pelaksanaan kegiatan ini terdiri dari tiga tahap utama, yaitu Persiapan, tim pengabdian akan melakukan koordinasi dengan pihak sekolah (guru dan kepala sekolah) untuk menentukan jadwal pelaksanaan dan materi yang akan disampaikan; Penyuluhan yang melibatkan pemaparan materi tentang jenis-jenis bullying, dampaknya, serta cara pencegahan melalui presentasi interaktif dan diskusi kelompok; dan kegiatan simulasi dan permainan edukatif yang bertujuan untuk melatih keterampilan sosial siswa dalam menghadapi bullying serta mempraktikkan nilai-nilai empati dan saling menghargai. Hasil dari PKM ini akan memberikan pemahaman kepada siswa bagaimana Pencegahan Anti-Bullying di Sekolah Dasar dengan membangun Budaya Positif di Kalangan Siswa.
Study the Effect of Genetic Polymorphism in the Estrogen Receptor Gene (ESR) On the Meat Characteristics and Some Production Traits of Japanese Quail
Authors: Amamah  Hamad  Wali  , Ali A. Abdulkareem  
Published: December 2024

Study was Procedure in the poultry field of the Agricultural Research Station / College of Agriculture and marshes / Thi- Qar University for the period from 10/10/2023 to 3/15/2024, the period of field and laboratory work, as 150 Japanese quail birds were raised from the age of one day to 35 days.
Birds were numbered with plastic numbers, and the weights were taken weekly to calculate the weekly weight gain and feed conversion efficiency. After the end of the breeding period, the birds were slaughtered and the relative weight of the edible internal organs (heart, liver, gizzard), tenderness, and juiciness were calculated. Genetic analyzes were conducted in the laboratory of the Marshes Research Center/ Thi- Qar University. With the aim of extracting the genetic material and determining the phenotypic structures as well as performing electrophoresis of the studied samples, the amplification product was then sent to the KCM, for the purpose of determining the sequence of the nitrogenous bases of the studied part of the gene, determining the genotype of the ESR gene and studying its relationship with some productive and sensory traits. Which included (the rate of weekly weight gain, the efficiency of food conversion, the relative weight of the eaten parts, freshness and juiciness), where the location of the variation in the nitrogenous bases of the studied gene was diagnosed, and the genotypes resulting from this variation were determined, with the studied piece registered in the Gene Bank LC816736, and the results were as follows: