bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of alleviating acute lung injury in mice from serum metabolomics analysis of Cordyceps fumosorosea
Authors: Khan Tahir , Zhou Jin-Na , Guo Yingqi , Hou Dong-Hai , Na Pi , Yang Yin-Long , Yu Hong 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

IntroductionMechanism of alleviating acute lung injury in mice from serum metabolomics analysis ofCordyceps fumosoroseaAimsThis study investigated the potential anti-inflammatory effects ofCordyceps fumosoroseamycelia on lung health, with a focus on acute lung injury in mice. The aims was to elucidate the underlying metabolic pathways and provide insights into the therapeutic potential ofC. fumosoroseamycelia under lung-related conditions.MethodsSixty mice were divided into six groups (NS, LPS, MIX, COR, COC, and DMX). Lung cell nuclei were analyzed using hematoxylin and eosin staining, and cellular changes were observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Metabolomics analyses using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) have been used to identify various compounds.ResultsIn all six groups, lung nuclear inflammation was observed in the COR, COC, and DMX groups, whereas the NS, LPS, and MIX groups showed no cellular changes, indicating good health. Metabolomic analysis using LC-MS identified 1,607 compounds across various classes. Statistical analyses, including the Coefficient of Variation and OPLS-DA, revealed distinct metabolic profiles, indicating significant changes after the consumption ofC. fumosoroseamycelia. Lipids constituted the largest proportion (30.37%) of the 30 identified classes and subclasses of metabolites. A total of 618 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were identified, both unique and shared between comparisons.ConclusionsMetabolic pathway analysis revealed differences between mice groups blood serum, which have good potential therapeutic pathways. The identified compounds further support the significant metabolic changes induced byC. fumosoroseamycelial consumption.
Central Nervous System Infections In Recipients of Solid Organ Transplant
Authors: Morado-Aramburo Oscar , Joseph Leeja , Kaur Harmanpreet , Hasbun Rodrigo 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Central nervous system (CNS) infections are severe and life-threatening complications that can occur in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. We describe the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, disease course, and outcome of CNS infections in SOT.
Methods
We analyzed data of patients who underwent transplantation from September 2012 to February 2023, diagnosed and treated for CNS infections at our institution in Houston, TX. Data were retrospectively collected from medical charts.
Results
Of 1,345 patients who received a SOT, 30 (2.23%) were diagnosed with CNS infection, with a median age of 63 years, 60% were male. Time to CNS infection onset after transplant in 53.3% of the cases was after the first year. There were 15/30 (50%) cases of fungal infection, 8/30(26.7%) of viral infection, 7/30 (23.3%) of bacterial infection. There were no unknown causes. The most common etiologies were Cryptococcus neoformans 14/30(46.6%), and nocardiosis 3/30 (10%). On presentation, 22 (73.4%) patients had normal mental status, but 21 (70%) reported headaches, and 18 (60%) were febrile. Abnormal neuroimaging was found in 5 cases (16.6%) on computed tomography (CT)-scans and 10 cases (33.3%) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. An adverse clinical outcome on discharge was noticed in 33%, and 6.7% died. Fever was associated with an increased risk of adverse clinical outcomes (OR 11; p=0.018).
Conclusion
The incidence of CNS infections in SOT recipients is low but associated with substantial adverse clinical outcomes. The most common causes are fungal, with no unknown etiologies seen in this study.
Closing the gender gap in the authorship of hematology/oncology-related randomized controlled trials requires inclusive effort from male and female senior researchers
Authors: Kumari Roopa , Khealani Milan , Luhana Sindhu , Parkash Om , Sadarat FNU , Devi Sapna , Kiran FNU , Rahaman Zubair , Wang Hong Yu , Chander Subhash 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Importance: Severe gender gap in academic research output is pervasive across all medical specialties, including hematology and oncology. Objective: This bibliometric study aimed to investigate the representation of females in premier first and last authorship positions of hematology- and oncology-related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2000–2022. Additionally, we investigated the trend of females in first authorship positions with a male or female senior author. Design: Bibliometric analysis of clinically oriented hematology and oncology RCTs published between 2000 and 2022 across all PubMed-indexed journals. Participants: First and last authors of 5,891 hematology- and oncology-related RCTs. Main Outcomes: Change in the proportion of female first and senior authors and the proportion of RCTs with the same and cross-gender dyads of first and senior authors. Results: 5,891 RCTs were available with identifiable gender of first and senior authors. A total of 49 countries and 62 journals were represented in our study sample. The proportion of females in our study population was 22.9% (n = 1,349) in the first authorship and 17.5% (n = 1,032) in the senior authorship positions and were predominantly affiliated with institutions in high-income countries (94.1%, n = 1,270 and 95.3%, n = 984). We also noted a significant upward trend in the percentage of female authors in the first authorship position (16.3% in 2000 to 32.4% in 2022, p = 0.001) between 2000 and 2022; the trend was stronger with male than female senior authors. However, the odds of the females in the first authorship position with a female senior author were significantly higher only when both authors came from high-income countries [OR = 1.702 (95%CI 1.461–1.984; p < 0.0001]. The proportion of female senior authors remained stable during the study period. Conclusions and Relevance: Despite early trends in closing the gender gap in the authorship of hematology- and oncology-related RCTs, females remain severely underrepresented in premier authorship positions. The increasing proportion of female authors in the first authorship position with a male senior author indicated that a more inclusive effort to train, mentor, and encourage young female physician-scientists with the involvement of senior male and female researchers will likely accelerate the overall increase in female authorship.
Quantitative morphometric analysis and prioritization of sub-watersheds for soil erosion susceptibility: A comparison between fuzzy analytical hierarchy process and compound parameter analysis method
Authors: Dhanush Shantha Kumar , Murthy M. Mahadeva , Sathish A. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Identification of critical sub-watersheds susceptible to soil erosion risk is the preliminary step in any watershed management plan. To achieve this goal, the prioritization of sub-watersheds based on morphometric characteristics is of paramount necessity. This study was performed on the Upper Shimsha-1 watershed using DEM to quantify the morphometric parameters in a GIS environment. The stream network was extracted in ArcGIS software, and the watershed was delineated into 16 sub-watersheds (SW1 to SW16). Two approaches, viz., the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) and compound parameter analysis methods, were employed in prioritizing sub-watersheds using 18 parameters highly related to soil erodibility. The FAHP score ranged from 0.145 (lowest priority) to 0.794 (highest priority), prioritizing sub-watersheds into ‘high’, ‘medium’ and ‘low’ classes occupying 10.76%, 27.23% and 62.01% of the total area, respectively. The compound parameter values ranged from 6.05 (highest priority) to 10.77 (lowest priority), and the ‘high’, ‘medium’ and ‘low’ classes occupied 31.84%, 16.49% and 51.67% of the total area, respectively. The common sub-watersheds from both methods under the ‘high’ priority class were SW14 and SW15, accounting for 10.76%, and under the ‘low’ priority class, SW1, SW8, SW9, SW11, SW12 and SW16 accounted for 42.66% of the total area. Hence, eight sub-watersheds were common in both prioritization methods corresponding to their respective priority classes. The integration of GIS technology, morphometry and prioritization methods has proven to be indispensable in watershed management and soil conservation efforts through this investigation. It further emphasizes the need for swift attention from decision-makers toward critical sub-watersheds.
Content of a wound care mobile application for newly graduated nurses: An e-Delphi study
Authors: Gagnon Julie , Chartrand Julie , Probst Sebastian , Lalonde Michelle 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background Wound care represents a considerable challenge, especially for newly graduated nurses. The development of a mobile application is envisioned to improve knowledge transfer and facilitate evidence-based practice. The aim of this study was to establish expert consensus on the initial content of the algorithm for a wound care mobile application for newly graduated nurses. Methods Experts participated in online surveys conducted in three rounds. Twenty-nine expert wound care nurses participated in the first round, and 25 participated in the two subsequent rounds. The first round, which was qualitative, included a mandatory open-ended question solicitating suggestions for items to be included in the mobile application. The responses underwent content analysis. The subsequent two rounds were quantitative, with experts being asked to rate their level of agreement on a 5-point Likert scale. These rounds were carried out iteratively, allowing experts to review their responses and see anonymized results from the previous round. We calculated the weighted kappa to determine the individual stability of responses within-subjects between the quantitative rounds. A consensus threshold of 80% was predetermined. Results In total, 80 items were divided into 6 themes based on the results of the first round. Of these, 75 (93.75%) achieved consensus during the two subsequent rounds. Notably, 5 items (6.25%) did not reach consensus. The items with the highest consensus related to the signs and symptoms of infection, pressure ulcers, and the essential elements for healing. Conversely, items such as toe pressure measurement, wounds around drains, and frostbite failed to achieve consensus. Conclusions The results of this study will inform the development of the initial content of the algorithm for a wound care mobile application. Expert participation and their insights on infection-related matters have the potential to support evidence-based wound care practice. Ongoing debates surround items without consensus. Finally, this study establishes expert wound care nurses’ perspectives on the competencies anticipated from newly graduated nurses.
Isolation of Glucose Fermenting Nitrogen Fixing Gene (nifH) Containing Endophytic Bacteria from Seed and Roots of Wheat (Triticum aestivation l.)
Authors: Devkota Subash , Puri Ramesh Raj , Yadav Pankaj Kumar , Luitel Himal , Rasaily Santosh , Bhandari Sushil 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The present study was conducted to study the nifH gene containing endophytic bacterial frequency in wheat seed and roots obtained from the soil of Chitwan and Kaski. One hundred and four isolates were studied for the presence of the nifH gene. There was a diversity in isolate characters obtained from root sample Root (R), direct seed sample (ds), and plant sample (P). None of the isolates from any sources showed indole-producing ability. About 18 isolates (15% of the total) contained the nifH gene through amplification of the gene by universal primers PolF and PolR. About 6 isolates from seed sample ds and 12 isolates from root sample R contained nifH gene. None of the isolates from root sample P manifested the presence of the nifH gene. Among 18 nifH-containing isolates, only 6 isolates manifested presence of cel3 gene of 400 bp, whereas, 11 isolates showed cel3 gene of 200 bp. All nifH gene containing isolates were confirmed to be bacteria by PCR amplification of 16s rRNA gene by universal primer 27F and 1492R and visualization of agarose gel matrix with bp range of approximately 530 under UV ray. Further research scope exists to use these microbes as a bio fertilizer in plant growth promotion studies by inoculation.
Frequency, causes, and predictors of pre-hospital delay in patients with acute myocardial infarction at cardiology centers in Khartoum state, the capital of Sudan: A hospital-based cross sectional study
Authors: Mohamed Raed , Suliman Ahmed 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background:
Early treatment of acute myocardial infarction is crucial to reduce mortality in these patients. However, not all patients arrive early enough to receive optimal therapy, especially in developing countries. Many factors can lead to increased pre-hospital delay. This study aimed to detect the frequency of delayed patients out of the total acute myocardial infarction patients, in addition to determining which causes were behind the delay and which factors can be associated with the delay.
Methods:
This study enrolled patients admitted to Al-Shaab Teaching Hospital and the Sudan Heart Center from the beginning of September 2022 to the end of November 2022. The validated questionnaire was completed using an interview method. Patients were classified as delayed (interval of 12 hours or more) and non-delayed (interval of < 12 hours). Causes behind the delay were searched for in delayed patients, and different associations were studied using the chi-square test.
Results:
A total of 224 patients were involved. Of these, 119 (53%) arrived late. Going to a non-reperfusion center was the most commonly observed cause behind the delay (64%). A statistically significant association was found between delay and level of education (p-value 0.03), smoking status (p-value 0.004), and location of residency (p-value 0.04). On the other side, no significant association was found with age, gender, mood of transportation, chronic comorbidities, previous myocardial infarction, and 1st-degree family history of myocardial infarction (all p-values > 0.05).
Conclusions:
More than half of the patients exhibited delayed arrival. This delay was mostly attributed to going to non-reperfusion centers. A strong association was also found between delay, illiteracy, non-smoking, and living outside Khartoum. More efforts must be directed toward educating people about coronary artery diseases, especially acute myocardial infarction, with its different aspects and the advantages of early arrival to the hospital and early management.
Factors associated with severe pneumonia among children &lt;5 years, Kasese District, Uganda: a case-control study, January–April 2023
Authors: Wanyana Mercy Wendy , Migisha Richard , King Patrick , Kibaba Abraham Muhesi , Kwesiga Benon , Kadobera Daniel , Bulage Lilian , Ario Alex Riolexus 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background: Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of infant mortality globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Uganda, pneumonia was the fourth leading cause of death in children <5 years in 2018. Analysis of 2013–2022 data for children <5 years from the District Health Information System indicated a high incidence of severe pneumonia in Kasese District, Uganda. We investigated to identify factors associated with severe pneumonia among children <5 years in Kasese District to inform prevention and control strategies.
Methods:We conducted a 1:1 hospital-based case-control study among children aged 2-59 months presenting with pneumonia at five high-volume facilities in Kasese District from January to April 2023. A case was defined as pneumonia with ≥1 of the following danger signs: low oxygen saturation, central cyanosis, severe respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, altered consciousness, and convulsions. Controls were outpatient children aged 2-59 months with a diagnosis of non-severe pneumonia. We reviewed medical records at facilities and used an interviewer-administered questionnaire with caregivers to obtain information on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with severe pneumonia.
Results: We enrolled199 cases and 174 controls. The odds of severe pneumonia were higher among children with diarrhoea only (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=2.9, 95%CI: 1.7-4.9), or malaria and diarrhoea (aOR=3.4, 95%CI: 2.0-5.9), than those without a co-existing illness at the time of pneumonia diagnosis. Not being exclusively breastfed for ≥6 months (aOR=2.0, 95%CI: 1.1-3.3) and exposure to indoor air pollution from cooking combustion sources (aOR=2.9, 95%CI: 1.8-4.7) increased odds of severe pneumonia.
Conclusion: The findings highlight the significance of comorbidities, lack of exclusive breastfeeding, and exposure to indoor air pollution in the development of severe pneumonia. Promoting exclusive breastfeeding for ≥6 months and advocating for the use of clean energy sources, could mitigate morbidity and mortality attributable to severe pneumonia in the region.
Anti-lipidemic and protein restoration potential of Monodora myristica (Gaertn.) in rats fed with cassava containing crude oil
Authors: Okpoghono Joel , Ukperegbulem Jonah Kanayo , Igue Udoka Bessie 
Published: November 2023

Consumption of cassava meal affected by crude oil has significant effects on lipid and protein metabolism. The hepatoprotective action of spices is mostly attributed to the suppression of lipid oxidation and protein breakdown. This study examined the protein restoration and anti-lipidemic potential of Monodora myristica (Gaertn.) in rats fed with cassava contaminated with crude oil.
The research involved 36 albino rats separated into six groups (n = 6). Group 1 (control) consumed cassava without crude oil. Group 2 received cassava with crude oil. Groups 3, 4, and 5 fed on cassava with crude oil and various extracts of M. myristica, i.e., aqueous, ethanol, and diethyl ether, respectively. Group 6 received non-ionic synthetic surfactant Tween 80. The experiment relied on standard methods.
Blood serum and liver obtained from the rats of Group 2 showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, triacylglycerol, and malondialdehyde, as well as a decrease in total protein, albumin, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The groups that received M. myristica extracts showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in total protein, albumin, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. They also had lower total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, triacylglycerol, and malondialdehyde as compared to Group 2, which dieted on cassava contaminated with crude oil without additives.
In this research, crude oil-contaminated cassava affected proteins and lipids in rats. Diethyl ether extract of M. myristica demonstrated the best anti-lipidemic and protein restoration.
Determinants of the successful signing of public–private partnership contracts for water and sanitation infrastructure financing in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mundonde Justice , Makoni Patricia Lindelwa 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
The private sector remains hesitant to invest in water and sanitation infrastructure in Zimbabwe. For policymakers and investors, it is pertinent to understand the factors that determine the signing of water and sanitation public–private partnership (PPP) contracts, in order to leverage expertise and resources to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal targets. This study applied count econometrics on data collected for the 25 years from 1996 ending in 2021, with the aim of investigating the determinants of the number of PPP contracts signed in Zimbabwe. Poisson regression estimations identified positive macroeconomic prospects, financial market development, and strong institutional governance environment as important determinants for PPP contracting in Zimbabwe. The number of PPP contracts is further confirmed to be dependent on the availability of inward foreign direct investment flows. The influence of institutional governance quality on the number of water and sanitation PPP contracts was tested using a composite index constructed using the principal components analysis technique. It is advised that the government of Zimbabwe should strengthen their governance institutions and further develop their capital and bank credit markets, so as to attract investors to take up the water and sanitation infrastructure PPP contract opportunities available in the country.
The influence of socioeconomic and spatial variables on total maximum daily load progress in the United States
Authors: Gunawardana Charitha , McDonald Walter 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The total maximum daily load (TMDL) program requires each state in the United States to assess their water bodies, list those that are impaired, and develop TMDL plans or programs to restore them. However, the impact that spatial and socioeconomic variables have on TMDL progress is unknown. This study seeks to fill this gap through a nation-wide analysis of the influence of spatial and socioeconomic variables on indicators of TMDL progress. To do so, data were collected and analyzed for each state, including indicators of TMDL progress, spatial variables, and socioeconomic data. Then, these data were applied to identify overall trends and to define the relationships between indicators of TMDL progress and spatial and socioeconomic variables. Results indicate that the size of a state, the length of total streams, and median household income are related to the percentage of streams that are assessed within a state. In addition, states largely followed similar patterns in TMDL progress based on the US Environmental Protection Agency region that they were within, indicating that location plays a large role. Overall, this study helps to contextualize progress in TMDL development and aid in our understanding of factors that influence the implementation of water quality programs.
Measuring the effectiveness of an integrated algae bloom, T&O, and cyanotoxin monitoring program
Authors: Adams Hunter , Southard Mark , Reeder Sam , Appleton Emily , Nix Daniel 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe City of Wichita Falls (CWF) Cypress Environmental Laboratory (CEL) established an integrated monitoring program in response to extreme taste and odor (T&O) events in 2016. The program uses field monitoring with sondes, sensory analysis to describe types of odors, water quality bench testing, algae/cyanobacteria identification and enumeration by flow-imaging microscopy, actinomycetes culturing, T&O detection by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), cyanotoxin screening by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and cyanotoxin detection by fluorometry. To date, the CEL had detected 16 T&O events prior to finished tap being discharged to the distribution system. This has allowed utility staff to take proactive measures to mitigate events, which has virtually eliminated consumer T&O complaints. This article provides a brief history of T&O analysis, means to monitor and mitigate blooms, T&O compounds, and cyanotoxins, and measures the effectiveness of the CEL's monitoring program by evaluating each T&O event, and specifically geosmin.