bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Procalcitonin Versus Conventional Inflammatory Biomarkers for Clinical Severity Grading in Patients with Intra-Abdominal Infection
Authors: Ozen Cihan , Karasoy Deniz , Yalcinkaya Ali , Pedersen Sine Huus , Hindersson Peter , Leutscher Peter Derek Christian , Holte Kathrine 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aim
We aimed to evaluate the properties of procalcitonin (PCT) as a biomarker for clinical severity grading of intra-abdominal infections (IAI) in hospital-admitted patients presenting with acute abdomen.
Methods
In this retrospective study, median PCT values were compared with conventional inflammatory biomarkers, including leukocyte count (LC), neutrophil count (NC), and C-reactive protein (CRP), within the patient population.
Results
Among the 245 patients included in the study, 58 (23.7%) were diagnosed with appendicitis, 54 (22.0%) with diverticulitis, 34 (13.9%) with calculous cholecystitis, and 21 (8.6%) with pancreatitis. Additionally, 60 (24.5%) were diagnosed with non-specific abdominal pain (NSAP), and 18 (7.3%) with gallstones without cholecystitis. Median PCT levels were significantly higher in patients with calculous cholecystitis (p < 0.0001) and pancreatitis (p < 0.0001) compared to those with NSAP. The proportion of patients with a PCT cut-off ≥ 0.04 µg/L was significantly higher across all IAI subgroups compared to the NSAP group. However, 18 (10.8%) of IAI patients exhibited PCT levels ≥ 0.5 µg/L, indicating systemic infection. Spearman’s rho analysis revealed a significant correlation between PCT and LC, NC, and CRP in patients with IAI (p < 0.0001). Moreover, median PCT levels were significantly higher in perforation/abscess vs. gangrenous appendicitis (p < 0.01), complicated vs. uncomplicated diverticulitis (p = 0.048), and severe vs. mild cholecystitis (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
PCT correlates strongly with conventional inflammatory biomarkers in patients with IAI. However, PCT appears to offer limited additional clinical value for guiding therapeutic decisions concerning the initial diagnosis and/or severity grading of IAI in patients admitted with acute abdomen. Further research is warranted to validate these findings.
In vitro and in silico studies on α-glucosidase inhibitory properties of bioactive components from the rhizomes of Alpinia officinarum Hance
Authors: Dlamini Zakhele Mphatsi , Dlamini Bongani Sicelo , Fu Shih-Han , Chang Ya-Lin , Lin Chi-Chien , Chen Yu-Kuo , Tan Kok-Tong , Chang Chi-I 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Key digestive enzymes, α-glucosidase and α-amylase, are associated with the occurrence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Inhibition of these important enzymes is one of the important strategies for the treatment of T2DM. In the search for alternative α-glucosidase inhibitors, five compounds (1–5) were obtained from the rhizomes of Alpinia officinarum Hance by chromatographic methods. In vitro enzyme inhibition assays, kinetic analysis and molecular docking studies were conducted to investigate the inhibition mechanism of the isolated compounds against α-glucosidase. Compounds 1, 3, 4 and 5 showed comparable α-glucosidase inhibitory activities to quercetin (IC50 value of 19.77 µM) with IC50 values ranging from 37.48 to 89.08 µM. According to the findings of the kinetic analysis, compounds 1, 2, and 4 were uncompetitive inhibitors, while compound 3 was a competitive inhibitor and compound 5 was a mixed-type inhibitor of α-glucosidase. In the computational investigation, hydrogen bonds served as the primary bond between the compounds and the amino acid residues. The results showed that A. officinarum might be a viable source of α-glucosidase inhibitors and antidiabetic agents.
Colostrum Avoidance and Associated Factors among Postnatal Mothers in Health Facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Mixed Method Study
Authors: Endale Samson Zegeye 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Colostrum is the first form of milk produced immediately following the delivery of a newborn. It is highly nutritious and contains antibodies to protect the newborn against disease and crucial for the newborn's health Despite its benefits, some mothers avoid giving colostrum to their newborns.
Objective:This study aims to assess the prevalence and factors associated with colostrum avoidance among postnatal mothers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods: A health facility-based mixed-methods of study design was conducted. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected using pretested questionnaires and key informant interview question guides, respectively.Quantitative data were collected through structured interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means, and standard deviations were performed. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the associated factors of colostrum avoidance among postnatal mothers at health facilities in study area.Qualitative data were gathered via in-depth interviews and analyzed thematically.
Results: The prevalence of colostrum avoidance was 8.94% (95% CI: 5.9-10.9). Multivariable analysis revealed significant predictors of colostrum avoidance: lack of counseling about colostrum benefits (AOR = 5.802, 95% CI: 2.467-13.647), cesarean delivery (AOR = 3.420, 95% CI: 1.411-8.288), poor maternal knowledge about colostrum (AOR = 13.111, 95% CI: 5.462-31.468), and late initiation of breastfeeding (AOR = 3.330, 95% CI: 1.242-8.926). Qualitative findings echoed these results, with cultural beliefs and misconceptions about colostrum contributing to its avoidance.
Conclusion: The study highlights a significant prevalence of colostrum avoidance among postnatal mothers in Addis Ababa. Key predictors include inadequate counseling, cesarean delivery, poor knowledge about colostrum, and delayed breastfeeding initiation. Interventions aimed at improving maternal education and breastfeeding practices are essential to reduce colostrum avoidance.
A retrospective Analysis of Presentations and Outcomes Traumatic Related Diaphragmatic injury Somalia: Single Center Experience
Authors: Çelık Osman Naci , Yasin Nor Abdi , Ahmed Mohamed Rage , Warsame Ali Mohamed 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Traumatic diaphragmatic injury (TDI) is a rare condition easily missed in an acute clinical setting, resulting in subsequent life-threatening morbidity and mortality. The present is the first study aims to investigate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics and management outcome of blunt and penetrating TDI at a tertiary hospital in Somalia.
Method
This study included 105 patients with a TDI who underwent emergency or elective surgeries and were admitted to the hospital over four years. Demographic and clinical characteristics, mechanism of injury, concomitant injuries, management, and outcomes were reviewed.
Results
The prevalence of TDI was 7.2%, penetrating (75%), and blunt (25%). Among them, 83 (79%) were male, and 22 (21%) were female. The mean patient age was 36 ± 8.5. 725% occurred on the left side, while 25% were on the right. No cases of bilateral injuries were observed. Gunshot injury was the most common cause in 45% of the cases, followed by a stab wound in 20% and road traffic accidents in 15%. Penetrating trauma was experienced in 63% of young patients under 40, while blunt trauma was 42% in the same group (p < 0.002, 95% CI: 0.78–2.64). Eight patients presented late with diaphragmatic hernias; the most common were gastric and spleen. About 62.5% were admitted to the intensive care unit postoperatively. There was a high mortality rate (n = 18, 22.5%); 12 were men, and 8 were women. Patients with penetrating trauma had a greater mortality rate than blunt trauma patients (27.7% vs. 11.5%, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.92–4.06). Females had a higher mortality rate than males (57.7% vs. 15%, p < 0.023, 95% CI: 0.83–2.73).
Conclusion
Our study revealed a high prevalence and mortality rate of TDI due to gunshot and explosive injuries. Patients with hemodynamically unstable on admission, those with penetrating trauma, concomitant solid organ injury, and younger age have the highest morbidity and mortality. Our study noticed a higher rate of right-site involvement of TDI compared to the rates reported in the literature. Identifying and treating these patients is critical, yet most patients living in low-income countries face delays due to limited resources.
Anterior Contralateral Cervical Microdiscectomy at C7-T1
Authors: Kahyaoğlu Okan , Can S. Meltem , Çavuşoğlu Halit , Yüce İsmail , Aydin Yunus 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose: In this retrospective study we reviewed our experience with patients who had disc herniation at cervicothorasic junction (C7-T1) and were treated with anterior contralateral simple microdiscectomy without fusion technique designed by the senior author.
Methods: Between January 2000 and December 2021, 27 patients underwent surgery for C7-T1 disc herniation by one neurosurgeon. Clinical and radiological data were obtained preoperatively and at postoperative 3rd and 24th months. Short form-36 and Neck disability questionnaires were used to assess their quality of life.
Results: All patients were presented with signs and symptoms of radiculopathy. There were 16 male and 11 female patients with a mean age 40 years. The follow-up period was meanly 9.7 years. Short form-36 and Neck disability scores calculated postoperatively were found statistically different from the preoperative values. There was no statically difference between the overall scores obtained at postoperative 3 months and 24 months.
Conclusion: We propose that anterior contralateral microdiscectomy technique without fusion is advantageous for patients with complaint of disc herniation at C7-T1 level.
The Crystal Cargo Reveals the Build-up Phase to Caldera-Forming Mafic Eruptions
Authors: López Mónica Ágreda , Musu Alessandro , Jorgenson Corin , Šala Martin , Giordano Guido , Caricchi Luca , Perugini Diego , Stremtan Ciprian , Petrelli Maurizio 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The magma accumulation phase preceding caldera-forming eruptions is crucial to identify the signs of an impending catastrophic event. While extensively studied in silicic systems, mafic volcanoes present unique challenges. The high eruptive temperatures of these magmas imply short storage in the cold upper crust and, thus, short periods of unrest preceding eruption, which could challenge our capacity to mitigate the impact of an imminent event. We analyse crystals in erupted magma to reconstruct the lead-up phase to the last caldera-forming eruption of Colli Albani, an active volcano near Rome (Italy). Here, we show that the caldera-forming eruption was preceded by effusive to mildly explosive eruptions fed by multiple crustal magma reservoirs. Following a pause in volcanic activity, magma rose directly from the mantle and accumulated to form a reservoir of a few tens of cubic kilometres. The ascent of one of these pulses ultimately triggered the last caldera-forming eruption of Colli Albani. Our results provide a new framework to identify the processes leading to caldera-forming eruptions in mafic volcanic systems.
Robust Ensemble Classifier for Advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar Target Classification in Diverse Operational Conditions
Authors: Rahman Noor , Khan Muzammil , Khan Imran , Khan Jawad , Lee Youngmoon 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study introduces an innovative ensemble technique to enhance synthetic aperture radar (SAR) automatic target recognition (ATR) by integrating the strengths of three diverse classification methods: support vector machine (SVM), template matching, and convolutional neural networks (CNN). The proposed framework leverages the unique advantages of each technique to significantly improve SAR target classification accuracy. CNN, particularly AlexNet, excels in standard operating conditions (SOC), while template matching proves more effective in extended operating conditions (EOCs). SVM, known for handling overfitting in parametric classification, adds robustness to the system. In this approach, binary target regions are extracted and matched to predefined template classes, while 16 target region properties are selected as features and processed through SVM for classification. The final decision is generated using a majority voting technique, ensuring the highest possible accuracy. Experimental validation was conducted using the MSTAR dataset, demonstrating the superior performance of the ensemble method. The combined approach achieved significant improvements in classification accuracy, with average accuracy rising to 90.30% in SOC and 87.22% in EOC-1, outperforming individual classifiers. These results showcase the ensemble's robustness and effectiveness, offering a novel solution for SAR target recognition in varied operational scenarios.
Better targeting treatments against Bovine Respiratory Disease by combining dynamic generalized linear models and mechanistic modelling
Authors: Merca Carolina , Sorin-Dupont Baptiste , Kristensen Anders Ringgaard , Picault Sébastien , Assié Sébastien , Ezanno Pauline 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) is a major health challenge for young bulls. To minimize economic losses, collective treatments have been widely adopted. Nevertheless, performing collective treatments involve a trade-off between BRD cumulative incidence and severity, and antimicrobial usage (AMU). Therefore, we propose a proof of concept of a decision support tool aimed at helping farmers and veterinarians make informed decisions about the appropriate timing for performing collective treatment for BRD. The proposed framework integrates a mechanistic stochastic simulation engine for modelling the spread of a BRD pathogen (Mannheimia haemolytica), and a hierarchical multivariate binomial dynamic generalized linear model (DGLM) which provides early warnings based on infection risk estimates. Using synthetic data, we studied 48 scenarios, involving two batch sizes (small and large), four farm risk levels of developing BRD (low, medium, balanced, and high), two batch allocation systems (sorted by risk level or randomly allocated), and three treatment interventions (individual, conventional collective, and DGLM-based collective). In most scenarios, collective treatments triggered by the DGLM were associated with a reduction of BRD cumulative incidence and disease severity. DGLM-based collective treatments typically exhibited either lower or equivalent AMU compared to conventional ones, being particularly advantageous in medium, balanced, and high-risk scenarios. Additionally, DGLM estimates of infection risk aligned well with empirical risks during the first time steps of the simulation. These findings highlight the potential of the proposed decision support tool in providing valuable guidance for improving animal welfare and AMU. Further validation through real-world data collected from on-farm situations is necessary.
Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors among Mill Workers Exposed to Noise and Respirable Dust
Authors: Kangarlou Marzieh Belji , Saleh Elaheh , Dehdashti Alireza 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We investigated the association between occupational exposure to noise and dust, and the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components in flour mill workers. A prospective cohort study monitored 379 flour mill workers from 2007 to 2022. Comprehensive assessments of exposure to respirable dust and noise levels were conducted. Clinical records were reviewed to determine the incidence of MetS and its components (hypertension, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and low HDL-cholesterol). Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression models were used to analyze associations, adjusting for potential confounders including age, smoking, and physical activity. Baseline differences were observed in demographics and family history of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Only fasting blood sugar (FBS) differed significantly at baseline (p = 0.049). Significant positive associations were found between respirable dust exposure, weight, body mass index (BMI), and risk of developing hypertension. Additionally, T2DM and age were positively associated with hyperglycemia risk, while LDL and TG levels were risk factors for hypertriglyceridemia. Baseline HDL levels were inversely associated with low HDL-cholesterol risk. The association between exposed group and non-exposed groups was not statistically significant in overall Mets development. While T2DM, age, blood lipid levels significantly influence metabolic health in flour mill workers, further research with larger cohorts is needed to explore the potential contributions of BMI, weight, noise, and dust exposure to MetS development. This study indicates the importance of preventive strategies and health interventions to manage exposure risks and promote metabolic well-being in occupational settings. We suggest further studies concentrate on additional factors that might influence metabolic disorders across diverse work environments.
Usage of modern contraception in context of polygyny in Pakistan with the moderating effect of household wealth status: Evidence from demographic and health survey 2017-18
Authors: Shah Athar , Ibopoto Mukhtiar Hussain 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Research explores the usage of modern contraception in context of polygyny in Pakistan with the moderating effect of household wealth status. Multiple analytical techniques were applied including logistic regression, margins analysis and Oaxaca blinder decomposition to understand the association between polygyny on the use of modern contraception with the moderating effect of household wealth status. The results reveal that women in polygynous marriages are significantly less likely to use modern contraception as compared to those in monogamous marriages. Household wealth status generally has a positive association with contraception use; however, this positive effect diminishes when interacting with polygyny. Main effect of the household wealth status typically promotes contraceptive use, this trend is not as pronounced among women in polygynous marriages. With the increasing wealth status disparity in modern contraceptive use between polygynous and monogamous families also widens.
Biochar filtration of drug-resistant bacteria and active pharmaceutical ingredients to combat antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Fady Paul-Enguerrand , Richardson Alexandra , Barron Leon , Volpe Roberto , Mason A. James , Barr Meredith 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major cause of death worldwide, with 1.27M direct deaths from bacterial drug-resistant infections as of 2019. Dissemination of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in the environment, in conjunction with pharmapollution by active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), create and foster an environmental reservoir of AMR. Creative solutions are required to mitigate environmental AMR, while taking into consideration other aspects of the planetary “Triple Crisis” of pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change. Waste lignocellulosic biomass (LCB), a byproduct of agriculture and forestry, is the largest stream of non-edible biomass globally. Through pyrolysis, waste LCB can be converted into biochars, which have excellent attributes for adsorption of pollutants–though no studies have yet reliably correlated production conditions with efficacy, nor considered adsorption of human pathogens. By leveraging a bespoke pyrolysis reactor with precisely controlled parameters, we show that production conditions substantially affect sequestration of clinical bacterial isolates, removing up to 94% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa RP73 and 85% of Staphylococcus aureus EMRSA-15. In addition, we show that chars produced at higher peak pyrolysis temperatures (450°C) can remove up to 91% of the antibiotic clarithromycin from wastewater, as well as significant proportions of many other APIs with varied physicochemical characteristics. These findings provide a first-in-kind insight into how production conditions affect the ability of biochars to mitigate environmental AMR.
Sociodemographic factors associated with the place of death of the Brazilian population and regional variations
Authors: Marcucci Fernando , Corradi-Perini Carla , Rodrigues Luis Fernando , Pastrana Tania 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Understanding the factors associated with the death and dying process, such as the place of occurrence and the sociodemographic influences, can support the definition of health assistance and public policies. Limited information is available for middle-income countries, like Brazil. This study identified and compared the association of sociodemographic factors (age, sex, ethnic/skin color identification, educational level and marital status) with the place of death in Brazil and its regions, in a population level research. In Brazil, death at hospital was more frequently associated with socioeconomic privilege groups (white people, higher educational level, more developed regions). Older age groups, male, unmarried groups and lower education level were related with higher odd to death at home, which raises concerns about unassisted or limited support in these occurrences. The debate on social demands, public policies and bioethical challenges associated with the assistance offered on death occurrences is need.
Chrysophanol attenuates cognitive impairment, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress by TLR4/ NFκB -Nrf2/HO-1 signaling in ethanol induced neurodegeneration
Authors: Khan Jehan Zeb , Zainab Syeda Rida , Shah Fawad Ali , Tipu Muhammad Khalid 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Ethanol-induced neurodegeneration refers to the progressive loss of structure and function of neurons caused by chronic ethanol consumption. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 2.3 billion people globally consume alcohol. This contributes to a significant number of alcohol-related brain damage. This study evaluated the effect of chrysophanol in ethanol-induced neurodegeneration. Mice were administered with 10mg/kg i.p chrysophanol, 30 minutes after administration of 2g/kg i.p injection of ethanol for 11 days. Y-maze, Morris water maze (MWM), and novel object recognition (NOR) test were carried out to analyze learning and memory impairment. Analysis of antioxidant levels, histopathological examinations, measurement of COX-2 & NLRP3 using ELISA, and gene expression analysis of TLR4, NFκB, IL-1β, TNF-α, Caspase-3 and Nrf-2, HO-1, and in hippocampus and cortex using RT-PCR as well as DNA damage by comet assay were carried out. Chrysophanol has shown remarkable impact in reversing cognitive decline and spatial memory. It effectively boosted antioxidant levels such as GSH, GST, and CAT, while simultaneously reducing the levels of MDA and NO. The histopathological analysis also showed improvement in overall morphology and survival of neurons. Chrysophanol treatment effectively showed an increase in the expression of HO-1 and Nrf-2 with a decrease in TLR4, NFκB, IL-1β, TNF-α, and Caspase-3 expression confirmed through RT-PCR. Production of inflammatory cytokines, and apoptotic gene expression was successfully reversed after chrysophanol treatment. COX-2 & NLRP3 levels were decreased and improvement in DNA damage were observed after chrysophanol treatment. In conclusion, chrysophanol demonstrated remarkable neuroprotective activity against ethanol-induced neurodegeneration.