bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identifying in-market application of Pelargonium root extract EPs 7630 for the treatment of COVID-19: analysis of pharmacovigilance data
Authors: Malek Fathi Abdul , Funk Petra 
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Phytopharmaceutical products are successfully used for acute respiratory infections and may therefore be promising candidates for adjuvant symptomatic treatment of COVID-19. In vitro and clinical studies suggest that the proprietary Pelargonium sidoides DC. root extract EPs 7630 has antiviral and immunomodulatory properties, and effects on SARS-CoV-2 propagation have been shown in vitro. Medicinal products containing the extract have been approved for the symptomatic treatment of acute viral respiratory tract infections.Methods: We present a retrospective review of case reports submitted spontaneously to the pharmacovigilance database of the manufacturer of EPs 7630 and containing information on the off-label use of the extract for the treatment and prophylaxis of COVID-19 and of post-COVID-19 syndrome. Eligible case reports were identified by automated database searches.Results: Forty-four case reports filed between December 2019 and February 2023 were eligible for analysis. More than ¾ described the use of EPs 7630 for treatment of COVID-19 while the remaining reports referred to the treatment of post-COVID-19 syndrome or to COVID-19 prophylaxis. 15/22 cases which reported on treatment duration indicated an intake of EPs 7630 for up to 7 days. Five case reports indicated the use of EPs 7630 as COVID-19 monotherapy while 14 indicated a combination treatment with other drugs. All 28 cases that reported on treatment outcome characterized the patients as improved. Thirty case reports (68%) did not indicate any complications. The most frequent suspected adverse reactions were gastrointestinal complaints and hypersensitivity reactions, both of which may occur as known adverse effects of EPs 7630. No unexpected adverse reactions were observed.Conclusion: Reported cases confirm that there was a certain off-label use of EPs 7630 for COVID-19 in the market. Even though no formal conclusions about the efficacy of EPs 7630 in COVID-19 can be drawn, a beneficial effect would be explainable by the pharmacological profile of the extract. Further assessment of the effects of EPs 7630 in COVID-19-related indications therefore appears to be both justified and promising, particularly as the available case reports did not give rise to any safety concerns also in this patient group.
Serum cytokine profile of neonatal broiler chickens infected with Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Milby-Blackledge Allison , Farnell Yuhua , Zhao Dan , Berghman Luc , Laino Craig , Muller Melissa , Byrd J. Allen , Farnell Morgan 
Published: February 2024

The avian immune system responds to Salmonella infection by expressing cytokines and chemokines. We hypothesized that the immune status of Salmonella Typhimurium (ST) challenged neonatal broilers would differ from the uninfected treatment. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate 12 cytokines. Day of hatch male chicks were randomly allocated into a control or ST challenged group. At day three of age, sterile diluent or 5.0 × 108 CFU of ST was given orally to each chick. Blood was obtained 24 h post challenge and serum separated for later analysis (n = 30 chicks/treatment). Significant (p ≤ 0.05) increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines-interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-16, and IL-21; anti-inflammatory cytokines- IL-10; chemokines-regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β), and MIP-3α; colony stimulating factors-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF); and growth factors-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were observed in the serum of the challenged chicks when compared to the control. No significant differences were observed in IL-2, interferon gamma (IFNγ), and IFNα. These data indicate the detection of mucosal immune responses in broiler chickens following ST infection. The heightened levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and colony stimulating factors align with known inflammatory mechanisms, like the influx of immune cells. However, the elevation of IL-10 was unexpected, due to its immunoregulatory properties. Notably, the rise in VEGF levels is compelling, as it suggests the possibility of tissue repair and angiogenesis in ST infected birds.
Evolutionary relationships, hybridization and diversification under domestication of the locoto chile (Capsicum pubescens) and its wild relatives
Authors: Palombo Nahuel E. , Weiss-Schneeweiss Hanna , Carrizo García Carolina 
Published: February 2024

Patterns of genetic variation in crops are the result of multiple processes that have occurred during their domestication and improvement, and are influenced by their wild progenitors that often remain understudied. The locoto chile, Capsicum pubescens, is a crop grown mainly in mid-highlands of South-Central America. This species is not known from the wild and exists only as a cultigen. The evolutionary affinities and exact origin of C. pubescens have still not been elucidated, with hypotheses suggesting its genetic relatedness and origin to two wild putative ancestral Capsicum species from the Central Andes, C. eximium and C. cardenasii. In the current study, RAD-sequencing was applied to obtain genome-wide data for 48 individuals of C. pubescens and its wild allies representing different geographical areas. Bayesian, Maximum Likelihood and coalescent-based analytical approaches were used to reconstruct population genetic patterns and phylogenetic relationships of the studied species. The results revealed that C. pubescens forms a well-defined monotypic lineage closely related to wild C. cardenasii and C. eximium, and also to C. eshbaughii. The primary lineages associated with the diversification under domestication of C. pubescens were also identified. Although direct ancestor-descendant relationship could not be inferred within this group of taxa, hybridization events were detected between C. pubescens and both C. cardenasii and C. eximium. Therefore, although hybrid origin of C. pubescens could not be inferred, gene flow involving its wild siblings was shown to be an important factor contributing to its contemporary genetic diversity. The data allowed for the inference of the center of origin of C. pubescens in central-western Bolivia highlands and for better understanding of the dynamics of its gene pool. The results of this study are essential for germplasm conservation and breeding purposes, and provide excellent basis for further research of the locoto chile and its wild relatives.
A feature optimization study based on a diabetes risk questionnaire
Authors: Jiang Liangjun , Yang Zerui , Liu Gang , Xia Zhenhua , Yang Guangyao , Gong Haimei , Wang Jing , Wang Lei 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionThe prevalence of diabetes, a common chronic disease, has shown a gradual increase, posing substantial burdens on both society and individuals. In order to enhance the effectiveness of diabetes risk prediction questionnaires, optimize the selection of characteristic variables, and raise awareness of diabetes risk among residents, this study utilizes survey data obtained from the risk factor monitoring system of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States.MethodsFollowing univariate analysis and meticulous screening, a more refined dataset was constructed. This dataset underwent preprocessing steps, including data distribution standardization, the application of the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) in combination with the Round function for equilibration, and data standardization. Subsequently, machine learning (ML) techniques were employed, utilizing enumerated feature variables to evaluate the strength of the correlation among diabetes risk factors.ResultsThe research findings effectively delineated the ranking of characteristic variables that significantly influence the risk of diabetes. Obesity emerges as the most impactful factor, overshadowing other risk factors. Additionally, psychological factors, advanced age, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, alcohol abuse, coronary heart disease or myocardial infarction, mobility difficulties, and low family income exhibit correlations with diabetes risk to varying degrees.DiscussionThe experimental data in this study illustrate that, while maintaining comparable accuracy, optimization of questionnaire variables and the number of questions can significantly enhance efficiency for subsequent follow-up and precise diabetes prevention. Moreover, the research methods employed in this study offer valuable insights into studying the risk correlation of other diseases, while the research results contribute to heightened societal awareness of populations at elevated risk of diabetes.
Honoring our teachings: children’s storybooks as indigenous public health practice
Authors: Maudrie Tara L. , Grubin Fiona , Conrad Maisie , Velasquez Baez Jocelyn , Saniguq Ullrich Jessica , Allison-Burbank Joshuaa , Martin Lisa , Austin Crystal , Joyner Joelle , Ronyak Marcella , Masten Kristin , Ingalls Allison , Haroz Emily E. , O’Keefe Victoria M. 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionAmerican Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) communities continue to flourish and innovate in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Storytelling is an important tradition for AIAN communities that can function as an intervention modality. To support the needs of AIAN children and caregivers, we (a collaborative workgroup of Indigenous health researchers) developed a culturally grounded storybook that provides pandemic-related public health guidance and mental health coping strategies woven with Inter-Tribal values and teachings.MethodsA collaborative workgroup, representing diverse tribal affiliations, met via four virtual meetings in early 2021 to discuss evolving COVID-19 pandemic public health guidance, community experiences and responses to emerging challenges, and how to ground the story in shared AIAN cultural strengths. We developed and distributed a brief survey for caregivers to evaluate the resulting book.ResultsThe workgroup iteratively reviewed versions of the storyline until reaching a consensus on the final text. An AI artist from the workgroup created illustrations to accompany the text. The resulting book, titled Our Smallest Warriors, Our Strongest Medicine: Honoring Our Teachings during COVID-19 contains 46 pages of text and full-color illustrations. An online toolkit including coloring pages, traditional language activities, and caregiver resources accompanies the book. We printed and distributed 50,024 physical copies of the book and a free online version remains available. An online survey completed by N = 34 caregivers who read the book with their child(ren) showed strong satisfaction with the book and interest in future books.DiscussionThe development of this storybook provides insights for creative dissemination of future public health initiatives, especially those geared toward AIAN communities. The positive reception and widespread interest in the storybook illustrate how braiding AIAN cultural teachings with public health guidance can be an effective way to disseminate health information. This storybook highlights the importance of storytelling as an immersive learning experience through which caregivers and children connect to family, community, culture, and public health guidance. Culturally grounded public health interventions can be effective and powerful in uplifting AIAN cultural values and promoting health and well-being for present and future generations.
The effect of liquid consistency on penetration-aspiration: a Bayesian analysis of two large datasets
Authors: Borders James C. , Steele Catriona M. 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionThickened liquids are commonly recommended to reduce the risk of penetration-aspiration. However, questions persist regarding the impact of bolus consistency on swallowing safety. The common practice of summarizing Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS) scores based on worst scores is a bias in prior analyses. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of liquid consistency on PAS scores using a Bayesian multilevel ordinal regression model approach, considering all scores across repeated bolus trials. A second aim was to determine whether PAS scores differed across thickener type within consistency.MethodsWe analyzed two prior datasets (D1; D2). D1 involved 678 adults with suspected dysphagia (289 female; mean age 69 years, range 20-100). D2 involved 177 adults (94 female; mean age 54 years, range 21-85), of whom 106 were nominally healthy and 71 had suspected dysphagia. All participants underwent videofluoroscopy involving ≥3 boluses of 20% w/v thin liquid barium and of xanthan-gum thickened barium in mildly, moderately and extremely thick consistencies. D2 participants also swallowed trials of slightly thick liquid barium, and starch-thickened stimuli for each thickened consistency. Duplicate blinded rating yielded PAS scores per bolus, with discrepancies resolved by consensus. PAS ratings for a total of 8,185 and 3,407 boluses were available from D1 and D2, respectively. Bayesian models examined PAS patterns across consistencies. We defined meaningful differences as non-overlapping 95% credible intervals (CIs).ResultsAcross D1 and D2, penetration occurred on 10.87% of trials compared to sensate (0.68%) and silent aspiration (1.54%), with higher rates of penetration (13.47%) and aspiration (3.07%) on thin liquids. For D1, the probability of a PAS score &gt; 2 was higher for thin liquids with weighted PAS scores of 1.57 (CI: 1.48, 1.66) versus mildly (1.26; CI: 1.2, 1.33), moderately (1.1; CI: 1.07, 1.13), and extremely thick liquids (1.04; CI: 1.02, 1.08). D2 results were similar. Weighted PAS scores did not meaningfully differ between thin and slightly thick liquids, or between starch and xanthan gum thickened liquids.DiscussionThese results confirm that the probability of penetration-aspiration is greatest on thin liquids compared to thick liquids, with significant reductions in PAS severity emerging with mildly thick liquids.
Assessment of ecotoxicological effects of Fojo coal mine waste elutriate in aquatic species (Douro Coalfield, North Portugal)
Authors: Narayan Aracelis , Diogo Bárbara S. , Mansilha Catarina , Espinha Marques Jorge , Flores Deolinda , Antunes Sara C. 
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The exploitation of anthracite A in the Pejão mining complex (Douro Coalfield, North Portugal) resulted in the formation of several coal waste piles without proper environmental control. In 2017, a new pedological zonation emerged in the Fojo area, after the ignition and self-burning of some of the coal waste piles, namely: unburned coal waste (UW); burned coal waste, and a cover layer (BW and CL, respectively); uphill soil (US); mixed burned coal waste (MBW); downhill soil (DS). This study aimed to evaluate the toxic effects of 25 soil elutriates from different pedological materials.Methods:Allivibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition assay, Lemna minor growth inhibition assay, and Daphnia magna acute assay were used to assess the toxicity effects. Additionally, total chlorophyll and malondialdehyde (MDA) content and catalase (CAT) activity were also evaluated in L. minor.Results and Discussion: The results obtained from each endpoint demonstrated the extremely heterogeneous nature of soil properties, and the species showed different sensibilities to soil elutriates, however, in general, the species showed the same sensitivity trend (A. fischeri &gt; L. minor &gt; D. magna). The potentially toxic elements (PTE) present in the soil elutriates (e.g., Al, Pb, Cd, Ni, Zn) affected significantly the species understudy. All elutriates revealed toxicity for A. fischeri, while US1 and UW5 were the most toxic for L. minor (growth inhibition and significant alterations in CAT activity) and D. magna (100% mortality). This study highlights the importance of studying soil aqueous phase toxicity since the mobilization and percolation of bioavailable PTE can cause environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems and biota.
Perceived Stress of Mothers, Harsh Discipline, and Early Childhood Mental Health: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study in Marginalized Roma Communities
Authors: Filakovska Bobakova Daniela , Chovan Shoshana , Van Laer Stanislava 
Published: February 2024

Objectives: This study aims to compare the early childhood mental health of children from marginalized Roma communities (MRCs) in Slovakia with that of the majority and explore possible mediating pathways of mothers’ perceived stress and harsh discipline practices.Methods: We used data from the first wave of the longitudinal RomaREACH study collected in 2021–2022. Two populations were included in the sample: 94 mother-child dyads from MRCs and 79 from the majority population (children aged 14–18 months). Data were analysed using linear regression, and mediation was tested using PROCESS Macro in SPSS.Results: Belonging to MRCs vs. the majority, perceived stress of mothers and harsh discipline were found to be associated with early mental health problems in children. Perceived stress of mothers partially mediates the relationship between belonging to MRCs vs. majority and harsh discipline and harsh discipline partially mediates the relationship between perceived stress of mothers and the mental health of children.Conclusion: Mothers from MRCs perceive more stress, which is associated with more frequent use of harsh discipline practices having a negative impact on the mental health of young children.
Extended Field Interactions in Poisson’s Equation Revision
Authors: Pinheiro Mario J. 
Published: February 2024

This investigation introduces a new variational approach to refining Poisson’s equation, enabling the inclusion of a broader spectrum of physical phenomena, particularly in the emerging fields of spintronics and the analysis of resonant structures. The innovative formulation extends the traditional capabilities of Poisson’s equation, offering a nonlocal extension to classical theories of gravitation and opening new directions for energy conversion and enhanced communication technologies. By introducing a novel geometric structure, ω˜, into the equation, a deeper understanding of electrostatic potentials is achieved, and the intricate dynamics of the gravitational potential in systems characterized by radial vorticity fluctuations are illuminated. Furthermore, the research elucidates the generation of longitudinal electromagnetic waves and resonant phenomena within dusty plasma media, thereby contributing to the methodological advances in the study of nonequilibrium systems. These theoretical advances have the potential to transform the understanding of complex physical systems and open up opportunities for significant technological achievements across a range of scientific sectors.
Pelagic Sargassum as a Potential Vector for Microplastics into Coastal Ecosystems
Authors: Aldana Arana Dalila , Gil Cortés Tania P. , Castillo Escalante Víctor , Rodríguez-Martínez Rosa E. 
Published: February 2024

Macroalgal blooms are increasing globally, with those linked to pelagic Sargassum affecting over 30 nations since 2011. As Sargassum mats traverse the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, they entrap and transport plastic to coastal areas, intensifying pollution in diverse ecosystems. This research assessed microplastics (MPs) within Sargassum fluitans III collected from the northern Mexican Caribbean coast (March 2021 to January 2022). The study employed a hydrogen peroxide protocol for macroalgae pretreatment to optimize MP extraction. All samples analyzed contained MPs at monthly mean concentrations that ranged from 3.5 to 15.3 MPs g−1 DW, with fibers constituting ≥90%. Fiber colors, mainly transparent, blue, and black, exhibited diverse sizes and wear stages. The study underscores the pervasive and consistent presence of MPs in pelagic Sargassum reaching the Mexican Caribbean. Considering the documented Sargassum influxes to this coast in recent years (2789–11,297 tons km−1 yr−1), potential annual MP influxes range from 0.1 × 109 to 17.3 × 109 km−1 yr−1. Efficiently removing beach-cast Sargassum and directing it to landfills could serve as a viable strategy for the simultaneous removal of attached MPs from the ocean and coastal waters, offering a promising mitigation strategy to combat plastic pollution in the examined marine environment.
Nivel de riesgo químico por manipulación de metacrilato de metilo en personal sanitario
Authors: Lucero-Martínez Ximena Alexandra , Córdova-Suárez Manolo Alexander , González-Salas Raúl , Flores-Pilco Diego Armando 
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: analizar el nivel de riesgo químico por manipulación de metacrilato de metilo en personal sanitario. Método: Descriptivo observacional. Resultados y conclusiones: Se calculó una dosis de exposición de 1.05 determinando un nivel de riesgo químico alto por superar la cantidad de 50 ppm de metacrilato de metilo como TLV-TWA, siguiendo la norma UNE 689 para a una elevación de 2577 msnm, humedad relativa de 80%, temperatura 18° C en la ciudad de Ambato. Se logró determinar que el nivel de riesgo químico es alto en los profesionales que trabajan en las clínicas odontológicas donde se aplicó el estudio, sobrepasando el TLV del metacrilato de metilo.
أساليب التسويق في المتجر الإلكتروني شوبي في منظور الفقه الإسلامي
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Muthoifin  , Andri Nirwana  
Published: February 2024

هذا البحث يكشف أبرز الأساليب التي استعملها التجار كثيرا لجذب المشترين خلال العمليات التسويقية عبر المتجر الإلكتروني شوبي مع بيان الأحكام الشرعية المتعلقة بتلك الأساليب في منظور الفقه الإسلامي. وهذا البحث من حيث طريقة جمع المعلومات فهو بحث ميداني ومكتبي في نفس الوقت. فإن الباحث خلال عملية البحث قام بملاحظة العمليات التسويقية في المتجر الإلكتروني شوبي لاستقراء أبرز الأساليب المستعملة لدى التجار في عرض المبيعات وترغيب المشترين فيها، ثم قام الباحث بعد ذلك بمطالعة الكتب والمراجع الشرعية ليقارن بين الواقع في المتجر الإلكتروني شوبي والأحكام الشرعية التي قررها العلماء في كتبهم. وقد وصل الباحث من خلال هذا البحث إلى النتيجة أن من أهم الأساليب التي استعملها التجار في المتجر الإلكتروني شوبي ستة أساليب، ومعظمها من حيث الأصل مباح، ولكن هناك أمورا غفل عنها كثير من التجار فوقعوا بسبب ذلك فيما نهى عنه الشارع.

الكلمات الرئيسية: التسويق، المتجر الإلكتروني، شوبي، الفقه الإسلامي