bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
High prevalence of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions in selected health care facilities in Uganda
Authors: Nuwematsiko Rebecca , Kitutu Freddy Eric , Wafula Solomon T. , Nabbanja Carol , Ssempera Hassard , Nambatya Winnie , Buregyeya Esther 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Antibiotic resistance is a major public health challenge affecting low- and middle-income countries such as Uganda. The link between inappropriate use of antibiotics and the development of antibiotic resistance is well known. We characterized antibiotic prescriptions and determined factors associated with inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions among outpatient cases in selected health facilities in Central Uganda.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study conducted in twelve selected health facilities in the Luwero and Mukono districts of Uganda from February to March 2022. Data were extracted from the records of patients of all ages who presented to outpatient departments with i) acute fever, ii) acute watery diarrhea with no blood, iii) cough or iv) fever. Data on socio-demographics, presenting health conditions and antibiotics prescribed were collected. Multivariate analysis was performed using modified Poisson regression modelling to determine factors associated with inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions among outpatient cases. Prevalence risk ratios with their 95% confidence intervals were determined.
Findings
A total of 350 records of outpatient cases were extracted. Almost half (42.0%, 147/350) of the patient cases were aged 0–5 years, and more than half (55.7%, 195/350) were females. Majority, 79.7% (279/350) of the patient cases received an antibiotic. On average, each patient received 1.25 antibiotics. Three-quarters (75.7%, 265/350) of the participants had an inappropriate antibiotic prescription. A prescriber being a clinical officer was 1.18 times more likely to inappropriately prescribe an antibiotic compared to a medical officer (adjusted PR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.02–1.38). Compared to public health facilities, private-not-for-profit (PNFP) health facilities were more likely to have inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions (adjusted PR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.02–1.35).
Conclusion
Our study found a high proportion of inappropriate antibiotic prescription with patients visiting private (PNFP) health facilities more likely to have inappropriate antibiotic prescription. Our findings call for the urgent implementation of antimicrobial stewardship interventions in health facilities in Uganda.
Magnetic Properties of Iron Ores from Two Ordovician Deposits in Northern Portugal: Marão and Moncorvo
Authors: Dias Joana Mafalda Lopes , Vianez Ricardo , Cruz Cláudia , Font Eric , Sant'Ovaia Helena , Ferreira Joana , Guedes Alexandra 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The Vila Cova do Marão Mining Field (VCMF) and the Moncorvo Iron Complex (MIC) in northern Portugal are important geo-resources of iron. Here we provide a detailed characterisation of their mineralogy through petrographic observations and magnetic properties. Petrographic observations show the VCMF ore primarily consists of quartz, magnetite, and chlorite, while the MIC ore of hematite and quartz, with rare magnetite occurrences. The magnetic susceptibility (χ) of the VCMF host rock is 2.4×10⁻5 m3/kg, while the VCMF ore deposits have χ of ~ 20×10⁻5 m3/kg. MIC ores show lower χ values of 0.5–0.7×10⁻5 m3/kg. Isothermal Remanent Magnetisation (IRM) component unmixing of the VCMF host rock indicates that the magnetic population is represented by a single component with B1/2 of 45–55 mT and DP values 0.30–0.35 mT, respectively, typical of magnetite. The VCMF ore is characterised by a single component with B1/2 of 32–44 mT and DP of 0.30–0.35, typical of magnetite. The MIC ore shows two components: component 1 with B1/2 of 50 mT and DP values of 0.31–0.37 mT, typical of magnetite, and component 2 with B1/2 of 500 mT and DP of 0.19–0.26, typical of hematite. IRM at saturation (SIRM) of component 1 is 116–248 A/m for the host rock, 1100–2400 A/m for the VCMF samples, and 209–335 A/m for the MIC samples, providing an approximation of magnetite concentration. The Cisowski test shows the presence of strongly interacting single-domain particles (0.16 < R < 0.24) in all samples. Our data provides useful information for future iron ore resource exploration in the area.
Bruçó granite (NE Portugal): a two-mica granite yet to be unveiled.
Authors: Mota Alexandra Ribeiro da , Sant’Ovaia Helena , Noronha Fernando 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The Bruçó granite outcropping in the NE of Portugal, is a porphyritic two-mica granite having associated, near the border of the massif, some pegmatites with tourmaline and quartz veins with W mineralization. Composed mainly of quartz, plagioclase, potassium feldspar, muscovite, biotite, and accessory minerals such apatite, chlorite, sericite, zircon, ilmenite, monazite, rutile, and tourmaline. Its paramagnetic behavior is primarily attributed to the presence of biotite and ilmenite, categorizing it as an "ilmenite type" granite. Variations in its biotite content and tourmaline, influence its magnetic properties and ellipsoid shape. The granite's AMS fabric aligns with the Moncorvo-Bemposta shear zone, indicating its emplacement during active tectonic activity. Geochemical analysis classifies it as a peraluminous granite. Despite its spatial association with tungsten mineralization, the Bruçó granite does not exhibit specialization in tungsten. Analysis of REE spectra reveals consistent behavior, influenced by accessory minerals like zircon, leading to fractionated spectra. Comparisons with other two-mica granites from Central Iberian Zone highlight its unique titanium content and mineral composition, aiding in understanding granitic patterns and classifications.
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Triggered by COVID-19 Infection in a Pediatric Patient with CD46 Mutation
Authors: Dana Parisa Maleki , Lorestani Parsa , Tohidi Mohamad Reza 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare form of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) which is considered life-threatening and caused by dysregulation of the complement system. Here, we report a previously healthy 8-year-old boy who presented with clinical and laboratory features of aHUS one week after viral symptoms during COVID-19 pandemic. The patient was admitted to the hospital due to symptoms of viral infection, fever, pallor, edema, and changes in urine color. Meanwhile, initial laboratory findings showed anemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Despite fluid and electrolyte management, the patient developed symptomatic volume overloud and pulmonary edema which led to the necessity of receiving hemodialysis and plasmapheresis. Following genetic tests, a homozygous pathogenic variant in the CD46 gene, encoding membrane cofactor protein (MCP), has been revealed. The patient initially responded to plasmapheresis but experienced a relapse requiring hemodialysis, additional plasmapheresis, and ultimately eculizumab therapy to inhibit terminal complement activation. Therefore, this case highlights that COVID-19 may trigger complement-mediated TMA and emphasizes on the importance of prompt diagnosis, genetic evaluation, and targeted complement inhibition in aHUS.
A novel genome-wide association approach reveals wheat pathogen genes involved in host specialization
Authors: Lorrain Cecile , Feurtey Alice , Alassimone Julien , McDonald Bruce 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Plant-pathogenic microbes, including the wheat fungal pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici, adapt to their host environment. In plants, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been extensively used to uncover the complexity of local adaptation and disease resistance. However, the application of GWAS to decipher the mechanisms underlying fungal pathogenicity and host adaptation trails far behind. Here, we established a genome-host association (GHA) approach to infer statistical associations between pathogen allele frequencies and host of origin for 832 fungal strains isolated from twelve different host cultivars during a natural field epidemic. We identified from two to twenty genes associated with specialization to the different wheat cultivars, including one known effector gene that provided a proof-of-concept for our GHA approach, as well as two new virulence-related genes that we validated with targeted gene knockouts. Our study highlights the polygenic genetic architecture of host adaptation and provides a novel application of GWAS in plant pathogens that transcends the limitations imposed by traditional phenotyping methods.
Novel sequence of PHKG2 mutation associated with first case of glycogen storage disease type IXc in Syria: a case report
Authors: Herh Seba , Shahoud Shaza , Daher Shady , Alasmar Diana 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

BackgroundGlycogen storage diseases (GSDs) are group of inherited metabolic disorders that affect the body's ability to break down and/or store glycogen. Type IX GSD is caused by the deficiency of hepatic phosphorylase, which lead to various symptoms .Case PresentationWe report a case of 6_month_old Syrian male presented by development delay, enlarged abdomen and recurrent vomiting. This is the first case of GSD IX reported in Syria .DiscussionGSD IXc is caused by a mutation in the PHKG2 gene, which causes several manifestations. Most patients present with hypoglycemia, hepatomegaly, and growth retardation. Changes in blood and fasting tests are not specific and overlap with other disorders, so laboratory tests are not very useful. Liver biopsy guides to GSD IX due to glycogenosis, peripheral fibrosis, and other changes. Therefore, genetic study is necessary to confirm the diagnosis of GSD IXc. Genetic counseling is also very important to follow the mutation in future generations .ConclusionIt's very important to raise awareness about genetic disorders in Syria because of the high prevalence of consanguineous marriages .
Strategies for Advancing Biodiversity Conservation: A case of Human-Elephant Conflict in Yunnan, China
Authors: An Xufeng , Zhou Jinhua , Zhang Kai 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The core of biodiversity conservation is to rebuild the harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife, ensure sustainable development and protect the safety of humans and wildlife. The collective northward movement of wild elephants in Yunnan, China, which attracted worldwide attention in 2021, caused damage to crops, destroyed houses in the wild Asian elephants throughout the region, and put forward new challenges to biodiversity protection. We should think about how to balance the relationship between human beings and wild animals. Based on this incident and through field interviews, this paper dialogues with the staff and villagers involved in this incident and profoundly understands the problems faced in the conflict between human beings and wild Asian elephants. The research shows that the main problems are weak financial capacity, weak emergency culture, shortage of emergency personnel, lack of emergency facilities, lack of mass participation, and poor tolerance for wild elephants. It is found that these problems challenge the construction of ecological civilization. This study reveals how to explore the path of biodiversity construction through macro, meso, and micro levels, to put biodiversity protection on the right track.
Behavioral biases and personal indebtedness: a systematic literature review
Authors: Silva Emmanuel Marques , Costa Daniel Fonseca , Bortolon Patricia Maria 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
The level of indebtedness of individuals has increased significantly in recent decades. The objective of this study was to analyze the scientific literature that evaluates the interrelationships between behavioral biases and personal indebtedness, with a view to investigating the intellectual structure of publications on the influence of behavioral biases on the level of personal indebtedness.
Methodology
Bibliometric analysis of scientific publications carried out until October 2023 in the "Web of Science" and "Scopus" databases and which analyze determinants of personal indebtedness from the perspective of behavioral sciences was used.
Results
The results reveal works with global and local relevance, how indebtedness has been discussed from a behavioral perspective and the main cognitive biases associated with it, research clusters that can serve as a reference for researchers, trends and research gaps in this field of knowledge, and that combining constructs from the field of behavioral sciences with other areas of knowledge, especially education/knowledge and psychology/behavior, tends to expand the literature related to personal indebtedness.
Originality
Based on the content analysis of the articles, an innovative scheme illustrating the possible definitions of indebtedness from an economic and psychological perspective is presented, which is an important contribution to the literature.
Kasur's Silent Threat: Heavy Metal Intrusion in Meat Supplies
Authors: Zahara Iram , Aizaz Muhammad , Abbas Arshad , Abbas Farrakh Ali , Ehsan Iqra Noor , Ali Muhammad 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Determining the concentration of heavy metals present in meat samples collected from different localities is a major goal. The concentrations of Cr and Ni were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and the readings were compared with international standard values of these metals. The results indicated the distribution of heavy metals in all the samples. The results were compared with threshold permissible limits established by the WHO. A significant increase in the concentrations of Cr and NI was observed in all the samples. Heavy metals have become a major health issue in Pakistan, which makes it important to determine the contamination level of soil, water and food sources.
Identification of antibiotic-resistant, gram-negative bacteria in sewage and bioaerosols from a wastewater treatment plant: A genotypic and phenotypic study
Authors: da Silva Luiz Vitor , Medeiros Sandra Helena Westrupp , Schneider Andréa Lima Dos Santos , dos Santos-Silva Jéssica Caroline , Fachini Souza André Luis , Rhoden Sandro Augusto 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global public health concern. This study aimed to investigate the presence of bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes in the environment, more specifically in sewage and bioaerosol samples collected at a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). Bacterial species were identified and tested for antibiotic sensitivity. In addition, bla CTX-M, bla SHV, bla TEM and bla KPC genotypes, including those related to resistance to carbapenems, were detected by PCR. The results of this research are extremely important for understanding the mechanisms involved in antimicrobial resistance and for preventing the dissemination of these antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. This study contributes to the identification of sources of antibiotic resistance in the environment and implementation of AMR control and prevention strategies while preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics and public health.
Quantitative evaluation of runoff drivers based on the MLLR-Budyko framework
Authors: Wang Gaozhen , Wang Hongxiang , Huang Lintong , He Ning , Wang Bing , Hong Fengtian , Li Yanhua , Ye Handong , Lan Jiaqi , Guo Wenxian 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT
At the request of the authors, the article ‘Quantitative evaluation of runoff drivers based on the MLLR-Budyko framework’ has been withdrawn from Water Supply.
Diabetic Retinopathy-A Review
Authors: Pushparani D. S. , Varalakshmi J. , Roobini K. , Hamshapriya P. , Livitha A. 
Published: June 2024

:
Diabetic Retinopathy is a vascular microvascular disease also called diabetic eye disease
caused by microangiopathy leading to progressive damage of the retina and blindness. The
uncontrolled blood glycemic level or sugar level results in diabetic retinopathy.

:
There are two stages of diabetic retinopathy: proliferative diabetic retinopathy and nonproliferative
diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy often have no early warning
signs, even muscular edema, which can cause rapid vision loss. Macular edema in which the
blood vessels leak can also occur at any stage of diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms are darkened or
distorted images and blurred vision that are not the same in both eyes. This review study primarily
discusses the pathophysiology, genetics, and ALR, AGEs, VEGF, EPO, and eNOS involved
in diabetic retinopathy.

:
The longer a person has diabetes, the higher their risk of developing some ocular problems. During
pregnancy, diabetic retinopathy may also be a problem for women with diabetes. NIH are
recommends that all pregnant women with diabetes have an overall eye examination. Diagnosis
of diabetic retinopathy is made during an eye examination that comprises ophthalmoscopy or
fundus photography, and glow-in angiography for Fundus. Here, we present a review of the current
insights into pathophysiology in diabetic retinopathy, as well as clinical treatments for diabetic
retinopathy patients. Novel laboratory findings and related clinical trials are also analysed.
COVID-19 and Women's Health: A Panel Survey on the Perceptions of Family Caregiving among Middle-aged Korean Women
Authors: Yun Sun Jeong , Kim Hye Young 
Published: June 2024

Background
COVID-19 has significantly impacted society, economy, and health, altering family roles and caregiving concepts. Middle-aged women bear the responsibility of managing family health, educating children, and caring for the elderly. The pandemic has brought considerable changes to these roles. This study used data from the Korean Longitudinal Survey of Women and Families (KLoWF).

Objective
This study identifies factors that influence the perceptions of family caregiving among middle-aged Korean women during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
Data from the 8th wave of the Korean Longitudinal Survey of Women & Families (KLoWF) for the year 2020, provided by the Korean Women's Development Institute, was used. The samples consisted of 1,120 middle-aged women between the ages of 45 and 65. Variables included general characteristics, changes in women's lives due to COVID-19, family roles, and perceptions of family caregiving. The data were analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, post-hoc analysis with Scheffé's test, Pearson correlation to examine relationships between variables, and hierarchical regression to identify factors influencing perceptions of family caregiving.

Results
The hierarchical regression model indicated that the factors influencing the perceptions of family caregiving among middle-aged women were age, changes in women's lives due to the pandemic, and family roles, with an explanatory power of 24.7%.

Conclusion
This study revealed changes in the patterns of family and caregiving roles among Korean middle-aged women during the COVID-19 era, providing foundational data for future studies on the life perceptions of Korean middle-aged women, proactive health management practices among women, and the development of sociodemographic policies.
Pemetaan zona keterpaparan permukiman terhadap bencana tsunami (Studi kasus: Kecamatan Ciwandan, Kota Cilegon)
Authors: Khansa Tasya Alifah , Somantri Lili , Setiawan Iwan 
Published: June 2024

Kecamatan Ciwandan berlokasi di pesisir barat Kota Cilegon dan berpotensi terhadap bencana tsunami karena wilayahnya berbatasan langsung dengan Selat Sunda. Permukiman adalah aset yang harus dijaga. Oleh sebab itu, pemetaan zona keterpaparan permukiman terhadap bencana tsunami sangat diperlukan sebagai acuan untuk mitigasi bencana dan meminimalkan kerugian yang ditimbulkan dari bencana tsunami. Pemetaan ini bertujuan untuk memperkirakan tingkat keterpaparan permukiman terhadap bencana tsunami. Tingkat keterpaparan dapat dilihat melalui dua komponen, yaitu tingkat bahaya (hazard) dan element at risk. Tingkat bahaya tsunami dilihat berdasarkan jarak dari garis pantai, ketinggian daratan, kemiringan lereng dan jarak dari sungai. Sedangkan element at risk merupakan elemen yang terpapar bencana tsunami, dalam hal ini adalah permukiman. Pemetaan dilakukan menggunakan teknik overlay serta metode skoring dan pembobotan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tingkat keterpaparan permukiman di Kecamatan Ciwandan didominasi tingkat keterpaparan sedang seluas 3.05 km², kemudian untuk tingkat keterpaparan tinggi seluas 1.13 km² dan tingkat keterpaparan rendah 0.11 km².
Reducing Free Fatty Acids in Crude Palm Oil Using Diethylene Glycol and Zinc(II) Chloride Based Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Suriyanti Lieli , Usman Thamrin , Rahmalia Winda 
Published: June 2024

Deep eutectic solvents (DES) were prepared by precise combinations of mol fractions of chemical compounds, resulting in a lowered melting point due to hydrogen bonding. This research aimed to elucidate the physicochemical attributes of DES and its effectiveness in mitigating free fatty acid (FFA) levels in crude palm oil (CPO). Zinc(II) chloride (ZnCl2) served as the hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) while diethylene glycol (DEG) as the hydrogen bond donor (HBD). Characterization included freezing point, density, viscosity, conductivity, and pH determination. At a ZnCl2 mol fraction of 0.30, the resulting DES exhibited homogeneity with transparent liquid properties, featuring a freezing point below −10 °C, density of 1.42 g/mL, viscosity of 1933.40 cP, conductivity of 66.13 µS/cm, and pH 3.42. FTIR spectra confirmed hydrogen bond interactions between HBA and HBD. Applied to CPO at a 1:1 volumetric ratio (DES:CPO), with 2 h of stirring time at 50 °C, FFA content decreased from 4.11 to 0.86%. This research highlights DES as an environmentally sustainable purification agent, significantly reducing FFA levels in unrefined palm oil.
Kinetics and Thermodynamics Study of Ammonia Leaching on Spent LMR-NMC Battery Cathodes
Authors: Perdana Indra , Rahman Muhammad Irfan , Aprilianto Doni Riski , Petrus Himawan Tri Bayu Murti , Kinanti Divita Hayyu 
Published: June 2024

The recycling of spent lithium NMC-type batteries, widely used in electric vehicles, presents a challenge due to manganese content, which complicates metal separation and purification. This study explored a selective leaching process using ammonia to recover metals from high-manganese-content LMR-NMC cathodes. By adjusting the (NH4)2SO4 reagent concentration to 1–2 M and maintaining the temperature between 50–80 °C, the recovery rates of lithium, nickel and cobalt metals were enhanced, leaving manganese primarily as residue in the form of Mn(OH)₂ and (NH4)2Mn(SO4)2. A kinetics model, integrating an equilibrium-shrinking core model with a modified temperature-dependent Arrhenius approach, accurately simulates the metal recovery. The activation energies of the forward leaching reactions of Li, Ni, and Co were respectively (1.4331±0.0036)×105, (1.5494±0.0034)×105, and (1.5743±0.0040)×105 J/mol, while those for the backward reactions were (5.3307±0.0041)×105, (2.4753±0.0093)×105, and (1.6289±0.0092)×105 J/mol, respectively. The leaching mechanism was found to be exothermic, which allows maximum recovery at low temperatures. The findings highlight ammonia’s effectiveness as a selective leachant, significantly reducing manganese in the leaching solution, and streamlining nickel and cobalt separation, thus enhancing the recycling process’s efficiency and sustainability.