bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genomic, socio-environmental, and sequencing capability patterns in the surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in Latin America and the Caribbean up to 2023
Authors: Concha-Toloza Macarena , González Luis Collado , Estrella Alfredo Heriberto Herrera , Porto Darío Fernández Do , Campos-Sánchez Rebeca , Molina-Mora Jose Arturo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) have been one of the most strongly impacted regions by the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emergency, with more than 83 million reported infections and 1.7 million deaths until December 2023, intensifying economic and social inequalities. This study aimed to provide information to the regional SARS-CoV-2 surveillance programs by determining genomic, socio-environmental, and sequencing capacity patterns associated with the circulation of the virus in Latin America up to 2023. Data from 24 countries in LAC were analyzed using public databases up to December 2023. A sampling of SARS-CoV-2 sequences from cases in the region enabled a phylogenomic study to elucidate the temporal distribution of various variants of concern (VOCs), mutations, recombinants, and patterns regarding sequencing capabilities in LAC. Additionally, correlation and generalized linear models (GLM) analyses were performed between 89 socio-environmental and five COVID-19 indicators to study possible associations between country-level factors. The phylogenomic analyses revealed a diversity of variants with the predominance of some during specific periods, mainly VOCs and some recombinant cases, and a mutation rate of 8.39 x 10− 4 substitutions per site per year, which are in line with other regions of the world. Besides, a low sequencing rate in LAC (on average 0.7% of cases) and incomplete databases in several countries were identified. In the analysis of indicators, correlations between 9 socio-environmental indicators and four COVID-19 variables associated with cases, deaths, and diagnostic tests related to the virus in the region, although not for sequencing percentages. This study provides information about the development of COVID-19 disease in LAC in terms of the viral genome, sequencing capabilities, and the region's complex socio-environmental conditions. Therefore, emphasis must be placed on implementing an integrated epidemiological surveillance approach to strengthen public health infrastructure and improve cooperation and preparedness for future infections affecting this world region.
Determinants of low fifth-minute APGAR score among newborn : A case control study conducted in north shewa Zone public hospitals, Central Ethiopia:2023
Authors: Ketema Teshome , jangule Yilma , Adugna Buta 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Globally, 2.6 million children under the age of five and around 7,000 newborns died in the first month of birth, with the majority of these deaths occurring in the first few weeks. Neonatal mortality has a significant influence on under-five mortality.
Objectives: The study aimed to assess the determinants of low fifth-minute APGAR score among newborn delivered at hospitals in north shewa, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2023
Design and settings: A facility based unmatched case-control study was conducted among 411 newborns was conducted from March 30 to April 30, 2023, in North Shoa Zone public hospitals.
Participants: 147 Newborns with 5th APGAR score less than 7 were considered as cases whereas 293 Newborns presented with 5th APGAR score greater than 7 were considered as controls. A consecutive sampling technique was employed to recruit cases, while a systematic random sampling technique was used to select controls. A pretested structured questionnaire through a face-to-face interview, a mother's medical records review, and observational checklist were used to collect data. The AOR with a 95 % confidence level were performed. Finally, variables with P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Outcome measures: The medical charts of participants were used to recruit cases and controls
Results: Anemia [AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.76–3.04], low birth weight [AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.54–3.08], twin pregnancy [AOR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.23–2.17], and absence of ANC follow up[AOR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.02–2.18] were revealed as significant predictors of low Apgar score.
Conclusions: A low fifth minute Apgar score was associated with low birth weight, antepartum hemorrhage, twin pregnancy, and not receiving ANC follow-up. It will be easier to identify high-risk pregnancies that result in low Apgar scores if pregnant women get effective health education on anemia during pregnancy,twin pregnancy,low birth weight and ANC before getting pregnant.
Implementation of methylation profiling of central nervous system tumors at largest public health center in Brazil
Authors: Wolff Beatriz Martins , Casal Yuri , Vieira Lucas Liro , Carvalho Gleyson Francisco Silva , Costa-Siemann Mariana Ribeiro , Mendes Rafaela da Silva , Chagas Maria Fernanda Freire , Rolim Lissandro , Gasparini Yanca , Moura Eder Alencar , Costa Felipe D Almeida , Kulikowski Leslie Domenici 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Tumor entities of the Central Nervous System (CNS) are defined by the WHO classification and range from benign neoplasms to highly malignant tumors. The extensive variety of tumor types and the histomorphological resemblance among different entities with unique molecular profiles make histopathological classification challenging. This diverse spectrum complicates clinical decision-making and the interpretation and validation of clinical trial results.
Methods: The methodology based on DNA methylation profiling of CNS tumors can enhance diagnostic precision when integrated with traditional morphological methods. In this study, we analyzed 16 DNA samples from medulloblastomas and ependymomas, obtained from paraffin-embedded blocks from the Pathology Division archives of HCFMUSP, and with prior histological analysis. The samples were processed using the Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip (Illumina®) and methylation data analysis tools in R Studio. The data were submitted to the MolecularNeuropathology.org platform for methylation-based classification and Copy Number Variations (CNV) chart generation.
Results: The classifier was consistent with the previous diagnosis in 94% of cases, refining the diagnosis in 54% of cases to subclass, 38% to subtype, and 8% to family. The platform also provided CNV estimates for 87% of cases, revealing crucial information on genetic alterations such as gains, losses, amplifications, and gene fusions.
Conclusion: Despite the challenges of implementation within the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS), the results demonstrate the method's robustness and reproducibility, promising invaluable support for precise diagnoses and the development of more effective therapeutic strategies.
Clinical Practice of One-lung Ventilation in Mainland China: a nationwide questionnaire survey
Authors: Liu Hong-jin , Lin Yong , Li Wang , Yang Hai , Kang Wen-yue , Guo Pei-lei , Guo Xiao-hui , Chen Ning-ning , Tan Jie-chao , He Yi-na , Chen Si-si , Mu Yan , Liu Xian-wen , Zhang Hui , Chen Mei-fang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Limited information is available regarding the application of the lung protective ventilation strategies during one-lung ventilation (OLV) around mainland China. A nationwide questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate the current clinical practice regarding this issue.
Methods
The survey covered various aspects, including the general information of the respondents, the establishment and maintenance of OLV, intraoperative monitoring standards and the complications associated with OLV.
Results
Five hundred and forty-three valid responds were collected which covered all of the provinces in mainland China. Volume control ventilation mode, 4 to 6 mL per kilogram of predictive body weight, pure oxygen inspiration and a low level positive end expiratory pressure ≤ 5 cm H2O were the most popular ventilation parameters. The most common thresholds of intraoperative respiration monitoring were: a saturation of peripheral oxygen (SpO2) of 90–94%, an end-tidal CO2 of 45 to 55 mm Hg and an airway pressure of 30 to 34 cm H2O. Recruitment manoeuvres were traditionally performed by 94% of the respondents. Intraoperative hypoxemia and laryngeal injury were experienced in 75% and 51% of the respondents respectively. The proportion of the anesthesiologists who frequently experienced hypoxemia during the OLV were 19%, 24% and 7% in lung, cardiovascular and esophageal surgery respectively. Up to 32% of the respondents were reluctant to perform lung protective ventilation strategies during OLV. Multiple regression analysis revealed that volume control ventilation mode and the SpO2 intervention threshold of < 85% were independent risk factors for hypoxemia during OLV in lung and cardiovascular surgeries. In esophageal surgery, being from a tier 2 hospital and using the traditional ventilation strategy were independent risk factors for hypoxemia during OLV. Subgroup analysis revealed no significant difference between respondents who performed lung protective ventilation strategies and those who did not, in terms of intraoperative hypoxemia during OLV.
Conclusions
Lung protective ventilation strategies in OLV has been widely accepted in mainland China and it is strongly recommended in esophageal surgery, especially those performed in tier 2 hospitals. The implementation of volume control ventilation mode and the early management of oxygen desaturation might prevent hypoxemia during OLV.
Screening and Diagnosing by Physiotherapists in the Emergency Department: a retrospective data analysis
Authors: Winteler Balz R. , Wirz Rahel , Schmitt Kai-Uwe , Beckwée David , Raab Anja M. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: To face the rising number of patients presenting themselves to the emergency department (ED) due to musculoskeletal pain, a new scheme was established at a Swiss university hospital. “Physiotherapy in the emergency department” involves physiotherapists (PTs) treating these patients.
This study was part of the scientific monitoring of the new scheme and was intended to fill knowledge gaps in the area of physiotherapeutic screening and diagnostic tests used according to the current state of protocol.
Methods: To describe the number and type of tests used by PTs, a retrospective observational study was conducted. Secondary data were collected from the medical records of patients treated in the ED under the new scheme and were clustered prior to analysis. In addition, the characteristics of the patient study sample were summarised in detail and the tests performed by the PTs were compared with those of the emergency physicians (EPs) involved. All records between April and August 2022 that contained a PT consultation report were included in the analyses.
Results: The cohort consisted of 146 patients. The mean age of the population was 44 years (SD ±17.6), and the lumbar spine (61%) was the most common area of complaint. PTs performed screening in addition to the baseline findings in 78% of cases; mainly neurological tests (38%) followed by manual provocation testing (31%), pressure dolence (17%) and safety questions (15%). In terms of type, screening and diagnostic tests they performed were largely consistent with those used by the EPs who had previously seen the patients.
Conclusions: The screening and diagnostic tests that PTs used for patients presenting to the ED for musculoskeletal pain are largely identical in nature to those used by EPs and are appropriate for the assessment and treatment of patients in this setting. This allows physicians to transfer these screening and diagnostic tests to PTs in the ED and reduce their workload. This may create new areas of practice for PTs, e.g. in an advanced practice role.
A Rare Cause Of Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Colon Angiosarcoma Metastasis
Authors: Kapan Mehmet , Mammadov Etibar , Yılmaz Ferhat , Yalçın Mehmet Suat , Başaran Murat , Özşeker Havva , Özşeker Burak 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Angiosarcoma is a rare and aggressive soft tissue tumor that accounts for 1–2% of such tumors, originating from lymphoid and vascular endothelial cells. It is typically of cutaneous origin, and its metastases usually occur in the lungs, liver, and regional lymph nodes. Colon metastasis is extremely rare, with only six cases described in the literature. Three of the cases with colon metastasis presented with gastrointestinal bleeding. Our case is a patient who presented with gastrointestinal bleeding and was diagnosed with metastatic angiosarcoma of the colon, marking it as the 7th case reported in the literature.
Propagation through seed or somatic embryogenesis: Comparing the effects of two methods and methyl jasmonate treatment on Norway spruce resistance to Heterobasidion infection
Authors: Tudoran Amelia , Elfstrand Malin , Helmersson Andreas , Puentes Adriana 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The clonal propagation method somatic embryogenesis (SE) has been shown to affect plant resistance to an insect pest. In a field trial, Norway spruce SE-plants (emblings) experienced less damage by the bark-chewing pine weevil compared to seedlings propagated through seeds from the same mother tree. Moreover, if emblings were treated with the defense-inducing hormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA), their resistance became much greater compared to the effects of SE and MeJA alone. Thus, we evaluated in a full factorial design if propagation method (seed or SE) and MeJA treatment (treated or not) can affect Norway spruce resistance to infection by the fungal pathogen Heterobasidion parviporum. Emblings and seedlings were half-sibs originating from four different Norway spruce families. We found that emblings and seedlings exhibited similar fungal lesion lengths (LL) and sapwood growth (SWG) in a constitutive state (no MeJA). Once treated, seedlings exhibited a 26% and 28% reduction in LL and SWG growth respectively, in line with previous studies. For emblings, it was the opposite. MeJA increased LL and SWG by 41% and 16% respectively. This is unexpected given the genetic relatedness of the material, and the previously documented effects of SE. It is possible that SE is causing changes in Norway spruce resistance that are effective against insects, but not pathogens. Also, MeJA treatment may be affecting embling terpene composition in ways that benefit fungal growth, as suggested from separate experiments. Further studies are needed to uncover the mechanisms behind the increased susceptibility of Norway spruce emblings to fungal infection.
Optimizing the Planning of DGsin a Radial Distribution SystemUsing a Multi-Criterion Decision-Making TOPSIS Approach
Authors: ganji Srikant 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The proliferation of Distributed Generation (DG) technologies in various sizes and configurations is causing a transformation in the traditional design of distribution networks. Nevertheless, improper integration of distributed generators into current distribution networks may result in several technological obstacles, notwithstanding the benefits offered by various forms of distributed power generation. This paper introduces a Pareto-Based, Multi-Objective-Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm (MO-AOA) to address the complexities of optimal DG planning within the Distribution systems. The primary aim of this study is to enhance three key technical aspects of distribution networks decreasing Real Power Loss (RPS) and Reactive powerloss and optimizing the Voltage stability index (VSI). Two cases are analyzed: In case 1 focuses on the efficient planning of distributed Generators (DGs) that only supply active power (microturbineDGs), while in case 2, it discusses the efficient planning of DGs that supply both reactiveand real power (eg. Synchronous Generator or Wind Generators). The pareto-based MO-AOA algorithm produces optimal pareto front in multi-criteria decision making, the TOPSIS methodis employed. The proposed approach is experimented on Two typical distribution networks, the 33 Bus and the 69 Bus IEEE systems, are used to test the suggested strategy. The performance of MO-AOA is evaluated against MO-PSO, MO-GWO, and NS-GA II to demonstrate its effectiveness.
Anatomical Landmarks for Localizing the Suprascapular Notch in Posterior-Approach Accessory-Suprascapular Nerve Transfer: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Junior Hélio Huguenin Tavares , Almeida Leonardo Leite , Aguiar Lívia , Barreto Daniel Sica , Silva Amanda Gonçalves da , Guedes Fernando 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Locating the suprascapular nerve (SNN) via the posterior approach during nerve reconstruction can be challenging, even for experienced surgeons, due to the nerve’s deep position near the superior border of the scapular spine and the limited operative field. This study aims to assess the topographical variations of the suprascapular notch (SN) to provide more precise presurgical guidance on its probable location.
Methods
In 51 scapulae, distances from the SN (A) to five key bony landmarks were measured: the supraglenoid tubercle (B), lateral border of the acromion (C), superior angle of the scapula (D), inferior angle of the scapula (E), and infraglenoid tubercle (F). The distance between points C and D was recorded, and additional relevant distances were calculated based on these measurements.
Results
The mean measurements were as follows: AB = 3.55 cm, AC = 6.68 cm, AD = 4.28 cm, AE = 13.38 cm, AF = 4.88 cm, and CD = 9.93 cm. Based on these measurements, the SN was found to be located approximately 63.51% along the line connecting C to D.
Conclusion
The SN can be identified by palpation at approximately 63.51% along a line extending from the lateral border of the acromion to the superior angle of the scapula, positioning it slightly more medially than commonly suggested in the literature. This anatomical insight can offer a more reliable reference for presurgical planning.
Association between village coverage of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and vaccine-type pneumococcal carriage among children aged 0 – 59 months with pneumonia in Papua New Guinea: an observational study
Authors: Ford Rebecca , Neal Eleanor , Sapura Joycelyn , kave John , Nivio Birunu , Dreyam Mary , Samatoe John , Kirarock Wendy , Chan Jocelyn , Hinds Jason , Nation Monica , Pell Casey , Ortika Belinda , Alamarousi Ahmed , Nguyen Cattram , Dunne Eileen , Satzke Catherine , Pomat William , Blyth Christopher , Russell Fiona 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) prevents disease by reducing nasopharyngeal carriage of disease-causing serotypes through direct immunisation and indirect community-wide effects. The extent of indirect effects in low-coverage, high-burden settings like Papua New Guinea (PNG) is unclear. From 2016-2019, we evaluated the impact of PCV13 on vaccine-type pneumococcal carriage among 1,214 children (0-59 months) with pneumonia or meningitis (cases) in PNG. We assessed individual PCV13 status, collected nasopharyngeal swabs for serotyping, and documented case village-level PCV13 coverage. Vaccine-type carriage was lower in vaccinated (24.8%) than under-vaccinated (41.3%) cases. PCV13 effectiveness against vaccine-type carriage was 46.6% (95% CI 27.0–60.9). Median village-level coverage increased from 2016 (12.5% [IQR 0–37.5]) to 2019 (28.6% [IQR 0–53.8]). Each 1% increase in village-level coverage reduced vaccine-type carriage by 0.5% (95% CI 0.0–1.0). Despite low PCV13 coverage, indirect effects were evident, underscoring the need to enhance vaccine access in high-burden settings.
In-situ engineering carboxyl in donor-acceptor polymers via photothermal synergetic system towards highly efficient H2O2 synthesis
Authors: Yue Dongting , Peng Yuanjie , Lin Jiahong , Gong Jiacheng , Zhu Mengxiang , Bao Chenyu , Chen Shuxun , Xie Xincheng , Yu Wenjie , Zhang Peng , Cui Jiahua , Yang Jinrong , Li Kan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Artificial photosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) from abundant lake or seawater via inexpensive, stable, and safe processes involving sunlight provides a sustainable path to carbon neutrality. We report a novel photo- and thermocatalytic synergism resulting from benzoxazine-aminophenol units crosslinked into aminophenol-formaldehyde (APF) polymers with H2O2 production rates achieving to 3216 μmol·g-1·h-1 from pure water saturated with oxygen. The carboxyl (O═C─OH) groups can be in-situ induced into APF during the initial stage and remained stable during the long-term photothermal process. These induced O═C─OH groups tuned the donor–acceptor (D–A) structures, which created more D–A couples, narrowed the bandgap for exciton dissociation, and reduced the energy barrier for H2O2 production. With the help of a concentrated solar light source, thermos assisted photocatalytic system can harvest the infrared light in sunlight, which provided H2O2 production rates of 14756 and 12094 μmol·g-1 (fresh water and seawater), further promoting the large-scale implementation.
Cytotoxicity and Characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized using Saraca Asoca Bark Extract
Authors: Jain Aishwarya , Bhise Kiran 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

ZnO NPs have of late garnered interest for their biomedical and theranostic applications, however, all such applications would involve exhaustive toxicological testing for their safe use. This paper reports on the green synthesis of ZnO NPs by the reduction of cytotoxicity during production from Saraca Asoca bark extract. The ZnO NPs obtained were characterized through UV visible spectroscopy by observing the peak at 326 nm. The scanning electron microscopy is done to assess the particle size range, which ranges from 50 to 100 nm.
The LC50 of the toxin, formula was established through an in-vivo Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay. Lethal effects at various concentrations of ZnO NPs including 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, and 100 µg/mL were tested on nauplii of brine shrimp while maintaining time constant at 24 hours. All nauplii survived at 5, 10, 20, and 40 µg/mL; at 80 µg/mL nine survived, while eight survived at 100 µg/mL, indicating a high level of nontoxicity at higher concentrations.
LC50 estimation provides evidence that the ZnO NPs synthesized through the bark extract of Saraca Asoca reveal very low cytotoxicity and, therefore, would act as a promising candidate for biomedical applications. The green synthesis route here may find an alternative, non-toxic nanoparticle production technique instead of the toxic ones shown here.