bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Detection of IMP and VIM genes and antibacterial activity of some plant extracts in carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn infections
Authors: Al-Jammas A. M. , Essa M. A. 
Published: October 2024

Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa has emerged as a deadly pathogenic agent globally, responsible for the majority of morbidity and fatalities in burn patients. Genes of carbapenemase are considered to be among the most prevalent means of resistance in P. aeruginosa to carbapenem. In the present study, the existence of metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) genes of the VIM and IMP in carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa isolated from burn patients were determined and also the antibacterial effects of five ethanolic plant extracts were investigated. Twenty carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa isolates were isolated from burn infections. The disc diffusion test was used for examination of antibacterial susceptibility. Subsequently, MBL were identified by the imipenem-EDTA combined disc test and PCR. This was followed by evaluation of the plant extract and MIC determination by the well-diffusion method. The results revealed that among 20 P. aeruginosa isolates, 17 (85%) were imipenem-resistant. Among them, 11 (64.7%) isolates appeared positive for the IMP-EDTA combined disc test. The VIM gene was detected positively in seven (41.2%) isolates. Not a single isolate had the IMP gene. None of the imipenem-sensitive isolates harbored the IMP or VIM genes. Evaluation of ethanolic extract of Rhus coriaria, Punica granatum, Thymus vulgaris, Syzygium aromaticum and Curcuma longa revealed possibly effective though variable efficacy against the tested P. aeruginosa isolates. Rhus coriaria extract was the most efficient and exhibited bactericidal and bacteriostatic activities with MIC's of 3.6 mg/mL while Punica granatum and Syzygium aromaticum showed MIC which reached 4.5 mg/mL. These plant extracts which were demonstrated to be potentially efficient could be utilized as natural alternative treatment to eradicate carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa.
Chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Vaccinium macrocarpon (Ericaceae) and Camellia sinensis (Theaceae) extracts
Authors: Maslov O. , Komisarenko M. , Ponomarenko S. , Kolisnyk S. , Osolodchenko T. , Golik M. 
Published: October 2024

In the modern scientific community, considerable attention is given to studying the pharmacological activity of catechin and anthocyanin derivatives. However, a comparative analysis of the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of extracts rich in anthocyanins and catechins has not been previously conducted. So, the purpose of this work was to study and compare phytochemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of Vaccinium macrocarpon L., Ericaceae fruit thick and Camellia sinensis L., Theaceae leaf liquid extracts. The quantification of biologically active substances (BAS) was accomplished with spectrophotometric, titrimetric and HPLC methods of analysis; antioxidant activity was determined by the potentiometric method; antimicrobial and anti-fungi effects was evaluated by the well method and minimum inhibition concentration. The total content of phenolic compounds was 0.47% and 10.10%, organic acids – 4.27% and 1.60% for V. macrocarpon fruit thick and C. sinensis leaf extract. The total content of catechins in the C. sinensis leaf extract was 105,000 mg/kg, where epicatechin-3-O-gallate dominated (37300 mg/kg). The total content of anthocyanins in the V. macrocarpon fruit thick extract was 1280 mg/kg, where peonidin-3-O-galactoside dominated (408 mg/kg). Both extracts possessed a high antioxidant potential, and effective antimicrobial and anti-fungi effects. The antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-fungi activity of V. macrocarpon fruit extract was higher than C. sinensis leaf extract. In addition, we assumed that anthocyanins had higher antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-fungi properties than catechins. These findings would promote application of V. macrocarpon fruits extract as pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.
Minority identity and place-name use in a Slovak–Hungarian bilingual settlement
Authors: Csobády Csilla 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis paper discusses the relationship between minority identity and place-name use in Hrušov/Körtvélyes. The research location is in the Rožňava/Rozsnyó district of the Košice/Kassa region, near Slovakia's border with Hungary. 79% of the village's population belong to the Hungarian national minority, while 20% of the population identifies as Slovak. The community can be described as bilingual, as they use both Hungarian and Slovak, depending on the situation and context. Most of the settlement's place name stock consists of toponyms in Hungarian, with Slovak toponyms mainly appearing only on maps from the second half of the 20th century. However, even the residents who claim Slovak nationality and/or Slovak mother tongue hardly know and use the Slovak toponyms. This sociological study of place names, including 10% of the population (34 people), proves this. The strong minority identity is reflected in the fact that the community of Hrušov/Körtvélyes uses Hungarian toponyms and has not adopted the artificially created Slovak toponyms. In this context, it is safe to conclude that learning and revisiting the use of toponyms can strengthen identity, as it strengthens the ties to the community.
A prospective observational study of neutrophil CD64 as a diagnostic marker in neonatal sepsis
Authors: Karmaker Prohlad , Rahman K. M. Mahbubur , Rasel Mohammad , Nasrin Ummey Tamima , Shabuj Mohammad Kamrul Hassan , Mannan M. Abdul 
Published: October 2024

Background: Neonatal sepsis is a major cause of mortality in the developing countries. With current investigations like septic screening and blood culture and sensitivity is not capable to early diagnosis of sepsis and have some limitations.
Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Neonatology and Department of Microbiology and immunology, BSMMU after approval by Institutional review board over a one-year period from May 2021 to April 2022. During the study period, a total of 590 neonates were admitted in NICU of BSMMU. Among them 157 neonates with suspected neonatal sepsis were admitted. Among these 157 newborns, 64 were excluded. Finally, 93 patients were included and analysed in the study.
Results: Total 157 patients with suspected sepsis were admitted during study period. Among them 64 newborns were excluded on basis of different exclusion criteria. Baseline characteristics of enrolled neonates 56(60.2%) were male. Mean gestational age 33.63±3.463 and mean birth weight 1863.23±773.202. Majority of the baby were inborn 68 (73.1%) and mode of delivery was LUCS. Maternal Risk factor for early onset sepsis like fever, UTI, PROM was not statistically significant. Hb and platelet significantly decreased in proven sepsis group. CRP significantly increased in proven sepsis group than clinical sepsis group. Mean nCD64 (%) was 83.62±16.665 and 57±34.277 in proven and clinical sepsis group respectively. It was significantly (P less than 0.001) increased in proven sepsis group. In ROC curve cut-off value for nCD64 in proven sepsis group was 71.5%. For sepsis diagnosis nCD64 showed sensitivity and specificity were 80% and 56% respectively. Calculating PPV and NPV were 71% and 74% respectively. nCD64 has an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.718. So, it is a moderately accurate marker for the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.
Conclusions: Flow cytometric assessment of neutrophil CD64 was found more in neonates with culture proven sepsis than clinical sepsis. nCD64 has a good sensitivity 80% and specificity 56% and PPV, NPV 71%,74% respectively in culture proven sepsis with a cut-off value 71.5%.
Correlation between screen time, eating habits and academic performance in pediatric population of NCR region
Authors: Ahmed Ifrah , Shahi Vidhi , Sharma Jatin 
Published: October 2024

Background: Young children are increasingly exposed to multiple electronic devices, thus preventing them from focusing on physical activities and academic performance. The aim of this study was to assess the association between excessive screen-time with eating behaviour, weight status (body mass index) and academic performance of paediatric age group.
Methods: Pre validated questionnaire-based study was done in school going children in the NCR region. Questionnaire used are Adolescent Sedentary Activity Questionnaire (ASAQ), Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and assessment of Academic Performance through Likert scale. Body mass index was calculated. The screen-time guidelines as published by the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP).
Results: During a normal weekday, 383 (73.8%) participants used screens, out of which 229 (44.1%) used screen while having meal. 90 (77.5%) participants out of total overweight participants (116) had screen time of more than 2 hours, whereas only 2 (1.7%) participants who were overweight did not used screen. 184 (36.1%) children with screen time of more than 2 hours achieved average grade of 76.6%, while those who did not use screen achieved an average grade of 91.5%.
Conclusions: Study concludes that increase in screen time has a detrimental effect on child’s overall health and academic performance.
Activity of speaking skills of grade V students with the help of a paired storytelling model on the theme of the environment of SDN Tegalasri 4
Authors: Oktaviarini Nourma , Astutik Leny Suryaning 
Published: October 2024

The research aims to analyze and describe the implementation of the learning process of speaking skills by using paired storytelling learning model for fifth grade students of SDN Tegalasri 4. The research method used in this research is qualitative research. The subjects in this study were fifth grade students of SDN Tegalasri 4. Data collection techniques used interviews, observation, and documentation. The results of the learning implementation research using the paired storytelling learning model obtained a scoreÂ 84% "very good". The results of the observation of students' speaking skills using the paired storytelling learning model obtained a scoreÂ 71% "good". The conclusion of this research is that learning speaking skills using paired storytelling can motivate to learn better in improving students' speaking skills in class V SDN Tegalasri 4.
Type-I Interferon drives T-cell responses to Amyloid-beta in the central nervous system
Authors: Bunse Lukas , Michel Julius , Sanghvi Khwab , Rosenbauer Jakob , Humbs Lea , Grudzenski-Theis Saskia , Sachs Viktoria , Jähne Kristine , Degenhardt Karoline , Frölich Lutz , Herms Jochen , Fatar Marc , Platten Michael 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque deposition in the central nervous system (CNS) is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), triggering an innate immune response. However, the role of the adaptive immune system is less clear. We investigated immune microenvironment dynamics in APP23 transgenic (APP23-tg) mice modelling CNS amyloid pathology, using single-cell transcriptomics. A significant increase in T-cell populations, particularly CD8+ T-cells, was observed in late stages, clustering around Aβ plaques, indicating a targeted response. A novel Aβ plaque-associated subset of CD8+ T-cells expressing interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), was found to drive Type-I interferon responses. This subset also produced CXCL10, which mediated non-ISG T-cell trafficking via the CXCL10-CXCR3 axis. Importantly, we corroborated our observations by identifying similar Type-I interferon responses near plaques in human CNS amyloid pathology. These findings highlight a shift from microglia-driven to T-cell-mediated neuroinflammation as amyloid pathology progresses, with implications for time-resolved therapy development.
The dark side of the biological carbon pump: iron availability modulates bacteria growth in the mesopelagic ocean
Authors: Mellett Travis , Monreal Patrick , Kunde Korinna , Manck Lauren , Cain Kelsy , Ribalet François , Church Matthew , Armbrust E. Virginia , Bundy Randelle 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The biological carbon pump is a process that transfers carbon fixed from phytoplankton biomass from the surface ocean to the deep ocean and plays an important role in global carbon cycling. The efficiency of this pump depends on the surplus organic carbon produced in photosynthesis relative to that consumed by respiration in the upper ocean. Iron (Fe) is a key micronutrient controlling primary production in large areas of the surface ocean, but its impacts on the growth of heterotrophic bacteria consuming organic carbon below the photic zone has been less studied. Here we present results from field experiments showing the strong coupling between Fe and organic carbon availability, influencing the growth of these bacteria in the mesopelagic ocean. The addition of Fe together with glucose yielded significantly higher bacterial biomass (1.4–60 fold), growth rates (1.2–6 fold), and total carbon consumption compared to glucose alone. When carbon was abundant but Fe was limited, bacteria invested cellular resources in Fe acquisition through the production of siderophores, resulting in lower growth efficiencies. Our estimates of mesopelagic bacteria Fe requirements show significantly higher quotas than those previously observed in surface waters, and its plasticity in the presence of new carbon may provide a mechanism for understanding the microbial response to carbon export in the mesopelagic ocean.
Multi-degree-of-freedom electrohydraulic origami actuator for highly dynamic shape morphing and robot locomotion
Authors: Li Wenbo , Zhang Yuanzhen , Li GuoRui , Li Hai , Tao Kai , Zhang Wenming , Xu Jian 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Active origami enabled by soft actuation has demonstrated excellent shape morphing and reconfiguration capability and unleashed great potential in many fields. However, available active origami structures or actuators usually have limited strain and speed, provide few active degrees of freedom or flexibility. Here, we report a multi-degree-of-freedom electrohydraulic origami (EHO) actuator with lightweight, high dynamic performance, flexibility and multi-functionality. We have achieved ultra large actuation strain (3300%) and strain rate (over 23500 % s-1) for the actuators, and constructed various types of active deployable structures with programmable and rapid shape morphing controlled by the extension, rotation, translation folding or actuation modes of the actuator units. We also demonstrate three origami robots with high-speed bidirectional sliding, multi-directional jumping and crawling respectively based on the reconfiguration and shape morphing of the active origami structures. This study may accelerate the development and application of active origami towards high-speed and agile robotics.
Esketamine Prevent Carboprost-Induced Adverse Reactions During Cesarean Section Under Combined Spinal-Epidural Anesthesia: a double-blind, randomized trial
Authors: Zhou Feng , Ma Qingling , Meng Fanqing , Bao Han , Liu Wei , Zhang Guangfen , Tian Yue 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To investigate reduce adverse reactions to carboprost of intravenous esketamine administered after childbirth via cesarean delivery with the patient under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia.
Methods
The study involved women within the age bracket of 20 and 40 years, with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class II or III, and a gestational age of 37 weeks or more. These women had a scheduled cesarean section procedure with the administration of combined spinal-epidural anesthesia. Patients were randomized to receive esketamine 0.5 mg/kg (Group E) or volume-matched normal saline (Group C) after delivery of the fetus, before carboprost administered. The primary outcome was the incidence of vomiting during surgery. The secondary outcomes were the incidence of adverse reactions (vomiting, nausea, chest rigidity, flushed face, tachycardia, cough, shivering), vital signs (HR, RR, MAP, SPO2) and blood gas analysis of intraoperative, as well as VAS score for postoperative pain.
Results
Eighty-one pregnancy women completed the study. The incidence of vomiting (22.5% versus 56.1%, p < 0.001) and the incidence of nausea, chest rigidity, flushed face, and hypertension were significantly lower in group E than in group C (all p < 0.01), but the incidence of tachycardia was higher in group E (45% vs 19.5%, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the patients’ arterial partial pressure of oxygen was significantly higher in group E than in group C (91.90 ± 5.14 vs. 79.76 ± 3.96, p < 0.001). Significant reduction in VAS-incision pain scores 6 hours after surgery in group E, but no significant difference was found at the VAS-uterine pain scores.
Conclusion
For women undergoing cesarean delivery under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia, intravenous esketamine after delivery of the fetus, before carboprost administered not only reduced the incidence of adverse reactions caused by carboprost, but also relieve postoperative uterine contractions pain.
Trial registration:
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration number# ChiCTR2100054985); Date of Registration: 30/12/2021
Tailoring sub-nanochannels and ion-imprinted functionality of palygorskite nanofiltration membranes for desalination and lithium-ion transport
Authors: Wang Baodui , liping zhen , Meng Genping , Zhao Xisheng , Guo Wenting , Sun Dina , Chen Yonghui , Wei Shuai , Hu Guowen , Wang Aiqin 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Nanofiltration membranes featuring sub-1-nm channels have demonstrated considerable potential for desalination and ion separation. However, the construction of both high selectivity and permeance membranes with tailorable one-dimensional (1D) sub-1-nm channels using a versatile and eco-friendly protocol remains a formidable challenge. Here, high selectivity PAL-CMC hybrid (PCH) nanofiltration membranes were successfully prepared based on the coordination-driven self-assembly between natural Palygorskite (PAL) nanorods and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) in water. We first discovered the ion-imprinting adsorption feature of Mg2+ on PAL. By adjusting the coordination ratio, the PCH membrane retains only the natural 1D straight sub-1-nm channels of PAL nanorods, rendering it one of the few membranes capable of ultra-fast water transport (> 25 L m-2 h-1 bar-1) and exceptional salt retention (97.4% for Na2SO4 and 86.2% for NaCl). Through applying ion imprinting technology, Mg2+-imprinting sites enable the membrane to transport Li+ rapidly and selectively in mixture solutions containing Mg2+, achieving a Li+/Mg2+ selectivity of up to 175. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that water and lithium ions can be transported rapidly through the intrinsic and tailored sub-1-nm channels of PAL nanorods, respectively. These findings establish PCH membranes as prospective candidates for desalination and lithium extraction from lagoons.
From COVID-19 to Mpox, how can we engage communities in Cameroon?
Authors: Mandeng Nadia Jacqueline , Esso Linda , Nsangou Moustapha , Tizi Nasser Bangai , Kenko Ingrid , Ntone Rodrigue , Nama Dominique Olomo , Bihina Luc Thierry , Hamadama Maidey , Lekeufack Edgard , Yopa Danielle Sandra , Ngomba Armelle , Mbo Marie Lumière Ntyam , Tandi Erick , Zintsem Philomène , Tameu Stella Wilfried , Onana Thaddée , Belinga Sandrine , Atongapai Diana , II Yap Boum , Bachire Hassan Ben , Mballa Georges Alain Etoundi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

COVID-19 pandemic highlighted major challenges for involving communities in Cameroon through risk communication. To address these gaps and improve responses to future health crisis including current Mpox, a national study identified the most appropriate communication channels and tools during health emergencies. Convergent mixed-methods study was conducted over three months across all region. Quantitative component involved a stratified cluster sampling of participants aged 18 and above, with data collected via KoboCollect. Data analysis used Python 3.12 and Excel (< 0.05). Qualitative component included semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, analyzed using NVivo. Of 10,400 participants were surveyed, and 5,141 households visited. Television (23.56%), radio (21%), and social media (15.91%) were most frequently used communication channels. Visual materials like posters (42.97%) being particularly attractive. Channel preferences were significantly influenced by comorbidities (P < 0,001); secondary education (P < 0,001) and university (P < 0,001). Health information provided by health leaders (34.12%) and community leaders (22.20%) was deemed most reliable. Study highlights the importance of contextualising risk communication and community engagement strategies, using attractive tools, channels and trusted leaders. These insights are crucial to improving the response to Mpox and futures epidemics in Cameroon.
The impact of domestic combustion of biomass pellets on the environment and human health: Example from Poland
Authors: Drobniak Agnieszka , Jelonek Zbigniew , Widziewicz-Rzońca Kamila , Mastalerz Maria , Schimmelmann Arndt , Jelonek Iwona 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In the context of the European Union's intensified efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions and meet climate targets, wood pellets have emerged as a pivotal element in the renewable energy strategy. Yet, biomass pellet combustion has been linked to a range of pollutants impacting air quality and public health. As biomass utilization gains popularity as a fuel for residential heating, it is important to determine this impact and enhance sustainable practices throughout the entire biomass energy production cycle. This study investigates the intricate dynamics of biomass pellet properties on their combustion emissions, with a specific focus on the differences observed between pellets of woody and non-woody origins. The data reveal a variation in pellet characteristics, especially regarding their ash and fines contents, mechanical durability, and impurity levels, and significant differences in the type and amount of utilization emissions. The results highlight potential health risks posed by the combustion of biomass fuels, particularly non-woody (agro) pellets, due to elevated concentrations of emitted particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), ammonia (NH3), chlorine (Cl2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and formaldehyde (HCHO), all surpassing recommended limits. Moreover, the study reveals that emissions from pellet combustion could be partially predicted by analyzing pellet characteristics. Statistical analysis identified several key variables—including bark content, fines content, mechanical durability, bulk density, heating value, net calorific value, sulfur, and nitrogen content—that impact emissions of CO, NO2, H2S, SO2, HCHO, and respiratory tract irritants. These findings underscore the need for proactive measures, including the implementation of stricter standards for fuel quality and emissions, alongside public education initiatives promoting the cleanest and safest fuels possible.