bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biogenic of CuO nanoparticles using the plant extract Ephedra Alata applied to the removal of methylene blue from wastewater, and its statistical physics analysis
Authors: atri afrah , echabaane Mosaab , Bouzid Mohamed , Lamine Abdelmottaleb Ben , Chaâbane Rafik Ben 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Water contaminants due to industrial organic dyes are posing serious human health and environmental problems. Adsorption technology has been widely used in wastewater remediation because of its simplicity, low cost, high effectiveness, and potential to use eco-friendly, non-toxic materials. Herein, the work presents an experimental and theoretical study of the adsorption process of Methylene Blue (MB) dye onto new biogenic copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) from Ephedra Alata plant extract. The CuO NPs were synthesized via a green chemistry approach and characterized by FE-SEM, EDXS, TEM, XRD, UV–Visible, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopies. The biosynthesized CuO-NPs present a large surface area, nanosize, and a monoclinic structure with phenolic, flavonoid, and hydroxyl groups on the surface. Adsorption tests were carried out under optimal conditions such as pH (7), dye concentration (10 mg/L), and adsorbent dose (0.02 g) to remove the most methylene blue dye from the solution. Adsorption isotherms showed that the capacity of MB adsorbed onto the biosynthesized CuO-NPs increased to 110 and 133.75 mg/g by increasing the temperature to 293 and 323 K, respectively. These experimental data were modeled using statistical physics theory in order to describe the steric and energetic factors involved in the removal of dye, as well as the adsorption mechanism. The modeling analysis demonstrated that MB adsorbed on the CuO-NPs adsorbent surface in a non-parallel orientation. Additionally, the investigated showed the energies of adsorption less than 40 kJ mol− 1. According to adsorption energy values, this mechanism progresses by physical adsorption. In summary, green synthesized CuO-NPs are potential materials for organic chemical removal from wastewater treatment.
Prevalence and causes of medication transcription errors among hospitalized patients: An observational study and survey of nurses at a faith-based hospital in Cameroon
Authors: ntani Suh Nsutebu , Sangha Yong Marie Noel 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Background
Medication errors are a leading cause of death globally with the burden on resource-limited countries more than double that in high-income countries. Errors could occur at all stages of the medication use process, however, there is limited information on medication transcription errors (MTEs) within hospitalized patients in Africa. This study sought to determine the prevalence and types of MTEs and to assess nurse’s perceptions of the likely causes of MTEs within the pediatric and general wards at a faith-based hospital in Cameroon
Methods
This was a prospective chart review of medication orders transcribed for patients admitted from the 1st to the 30th of April 2021. Data analyzed included patient demographics, prevalence of MTEs, types of MTEs, medication classes involved in MTEs, and nurse’s perceptions of the causes of MTEs.
Results
There were a total of 578 medication orders for 75 patients, 53% (n = 40) were female, and 30 were admitted to the children’s ward. Thirty-eight MTEs were recorded, 47% occurred on the medication administration sheet and medication cards. The most frequent MTEs were omission of new and stop medication orders which were involved in 28.9 and 26% of all MTEs respectively. Antibacterials for systemic use were involved in the majority (55.3%) of MTEs. Illegible prescriptions (90.7%), distractions (87.0%), and higher workload (77.8%) were ascribed as the most likely causes of MTEs.
Conclusion
MTEs were common and posed a potential risk of patient harm in hospitalized patients. The adoption of a computerized provider order entry system could eliminate illegible prescriptions, transcription, and reduce workload thereby improving patient safety.
Outcomes of Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxazole treatment for ocular toxoplasmosis in Congolese patients
Authors: Lusambo Nadine Nsiangani , Kaimbo Dieudonné Kaimbo Wa , Ngoyi Dieudonné Mumba , de-la-Torre Alejandra 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background
Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is the leading cause of infectious posterior uveitis in several areas worldwide. The combination of Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) has been presented as an attractive alternative to the “classic’ treatment therapy (Pyrimethamine/Sulfadiazine).
Methods
A prospective study was carried out between February 2020 and September 2021 in 2 ophthalmic centers in Kinshasa. This study aimed to describe TMP/SMX treatment outcomes for OT in a cohort of immunocompetent Congolese patients.
Results
54 patients were included, with a mean age at presentation of 37.5 ± 13.6 years old and a Male-Female ratio of 1.45:1. Three patients (5.6%) presented a recurrence during the follow-up period. At the end of the follow-up, improvement in VA and resolution of inflammation concerned 75.9% and 77.5% of patients, respectively. Cataracts (3.7%), macular scars (3.7%), and vitreous opacities (3.7%) were the principal causes of non-improvement in VA. Treatment-related adverse events were present in 10 patients (18.5%); gastrointestinal (14.8%) and dermatological (3.7%) adverse events were the most frequent. Dermatological adverse events led to discontinuation of treatment.
Conclusion
TMP/SMX regimen appears to be a safe and effective treatment for OT in Congolese patients. The low cost and the accessibility of the molecules make this regimen an option for treating OT in resource-limited countries.
Cytoskeletal remodeling defines nucleolar architecture during adipogenesis
Authors: Potolitsyna Evdokiia , Pickering Sarah Hazell , Germier Thomas , Collas Philippe , briand Nolwenn 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Differentiation of adipose progenitor cells into mature adipocytes entails a dramatic reorganization of the cellular architecture to accommodate lipid storage into cytoplasmic lipid droplets. Lipid droplets occupy most of the adipocyte volume, compressing the nucleus beneath the plasma membrane. How this cellular remodeling affects sub-nuclear structure, including size and number of nucleoli, remains unclear. We describe the morphological remodeling of the nucleus and the nucleolus during in vitro adipogenic differentiation of primary human adipose stem cells. We find that cell cycle arrest elicits a remodeling of nucleolar structure which correlates with a decrease in protein synthesis. Strikingly, triggering cytoskeletal rearrangements mimics the nucleolar remodeling observed during adipogenesis. Our results point to nucleolar remodeling as an active, mechano-regulated mechanism during adipogenic differentiation and demonstrate a key role of the actin cytoskeleton in defining nuclear and nucleolar architecture in differentiating human adipose stem cells.
Taking stock of population-level interventions targeting risk factors for hypertension and diabetes in Rwanda and South Africa: methodological reflections and lessons learnt from conducting a multi-component situational analysis
Authors: Nicol J Uwimana - , JP Nganabashaka , KD Tumusiime , Young T , Rehfuess E , Burns J 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background
Hypertension and diabetes are on the rise both in Rwanda and South Africa. The responsibility for NCD risk factors cut across different sectors, which makes it complex to effectively manage. Policy-relevant intervention research is thus critical for addressing the NCD challenge. We conducted a situational analysis in both countries to identify and describe current population-level interventions targeting risk factors for diabetes and hypertension. This paper presents this methodology and shares challenges encountered, and lessons learnt in applying the methodology.
Methods
We describe a multi-component methodology for conducting a situational analysis, which included a desk review, stakeholder mapping, survey, key informant interviews, and a consultative workshop. This methodology was applied in a standardized manner in two African countries. Following the analysis, the authors held iterative team consultations to reflect on challenges and lessons learnt during this process.
Results
Key challenges and lessons learnt relate to: i) stakeholder recruitment, engagement and retainment; ii) utilization and triangulation of multiple sources of data; and iii) evolving circumstances, particularly related to the Covid-19 pandemic. It proved challenging to recruit stakeholders outside the health sector and in the private sector, as they often do not consider themselves as making or influencing policies and thus were reluctant to engage. The difficulties with responsiveness were often overcome through face-to-face visits, an opportunity to explain the relevance of their participation. With regards to health sector stakeholders and all other stakeholders, continued engagement over prolonged periods of time also turned out to be challenging. Covid-19 restrictions were preserved to be an impediment throughout the conduct of the situational analysis, specifically in South Africa. The use of multi-stage mixed-methods was found to be appropriate for addressing the study objectives, as each step yielded unique data, concepts, and perspectives that complemented the other data.
Conclusion
Conducting a situational analysis is crucial for understanding the current state of interventions and identifying opportunities for new interventions. The multi-component methodology used in two African countries was found to be feasible, appropriate, and informative. Others planning to conduct situational analysis may follow, adapt and improve upon our approach, reacting to the challenges encountered.
Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block versus Bier block for emergency reduction of upper limb injuries: a protocol for an open-label, non-inferiority, randomised control trial
Authors: Tsao Henry , Tang Christopher , Trembath Mark , Jones Philip , Snelling Peter J 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background: Closed reduction of upper limb fractures and/or dislocations are common in the emergency department (ED), which involves physically re-aligning the injured part prior to immobilisation. As this is painful, numerous techniques are available to provide regional anaesthesia to ensure patient tolerance. A Bier block (BB) is typically performed as part of routine care. An alternative technique gaining interest in the ED is ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block (UGSCB), which involves injecting local anaesthetic around the brachial plexus at the supraclavicular fossa under ultrasound guidance. It is unclear whether UGSCB is effective and safe when performed in the ED.
Methods: SUPERB (SUPraclavicular block for Emergency Reduction versus Bier block) is a prospective open-label, non-inferiority randomised controlled trial that compares the effectiveness of UGSCB versus BB for closed reduction of upper limb fractures and/or dislocations. Adult participants presenting with an upper limb fracture and/or dislocation that requires emergent closed reduction in the ED will be eligible. After screening, participants will be randomised to either UGSCB or BB. Once regional anaesthesia is obtained, closed reduction of the injured part will be performed and appropriately immobilised. The primary outcome is maximal pain experienced during closed reduction measured via a visual analogue scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes include baseline and post-reduction pain, patient satisfaction, total opioid requirement in ED, ED length of stay, adverse events and regional anaesthesia failure.
Discussion: Existing evidence suggests UGSCB is effective when performed in the operating theatre by trained anaesthetists. SUPERB will be the first randomised controlled trial to elucidate the effectiveness and safety of UGSCB in the ED. The findings have the potential to provide an alternative safe and effective option for the management of upper extremity emergencies in the ED.
Trial registration: This trial has been registered with Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622001356752).
Sex differences in the frailty phenotype and mortality in the I-Lan Longitudinal Aging Study cohort
Authors: Lu Ya-Wen , Chang Chun-Chin , Chou Ruey-Hsing , Lee Wei-Ju , Chen Liang-Kung , Huang Po-Hsun , Lin Shing-Jong 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background: Frailty is a common geriatric syndrome related to multiple adverse outcomes. Sex differences in its prevalence and impact on mortality remain incompletely understood.
Methods: This study was conducted with data from the I-Lan Longitudinal Aging Study, in which community-dwelling subjects aged > 50 years without coronary artery disease or diabetes were enrolled. Sex disparities in phenotypically defined frailty and sex–morality predictor interactions were evaluated. Sex- and frailty-stratified analyses of mortality were performed.
Results: The sample comprised 1371 subjects (51.4% women, median age 61 years). The median follow-up period was 6.3 (interquartile range, 5.8–7.0) years. The frailty prevalence did not differ between men (5.3%) and women (5.8%). Frail individuals were older and less educated and had poorer renal function than did non-frail individuals. Body composition trends differed between sexes, regardless of frailty. Relative to non-frail men, frail men had significantly lower body mass indices (BMIs; 24.5 vs. 23.4 kg/m2, p = 0.04) and relative appendicular skeletal muscle masses (7.87 vs. 7.05 kg/m2, p < 0.001). Frail women had significantly higher BMIs (25.2 vs. 23.9 kg/m2, p = 0.02) and waist circumferences (88 vs. 80 cm, p < 0.001) than did non-frail women. Frailty was an independent mortality predictor for men only [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) = 3.395 (1.809–6.371), psex–frailty interaction = 0.03].
Conclusion: Frailty reflected poorer health in men than in women in the present cohort. This study revealed sex disparities in the impact of frailty on mortality among relatively healthy community-dwelling older adults.
Depression Score Mediate the Association between A Body Shape Index and Infertility in Overweight and Obesity Females, NHANES 2013-2018
Authors: Pan Qiangwei , Shen Xiaolu , Li Hongfeng , Zhu Bo , Chen Dake , Pan Jiajia 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background: Previous observational studies have associated infertility with fundamental physical parameters, including BMI, waist circumference, and excessive weight. Here, we introduced another convincing body shape parameter called A body shape index (ABSI), which can be calculated using waist circumference, weight, and height. To explore the association between ABSI and infertility in overweight and obese females, and the potential mediating factor in the association, we conducted this cross-sectional study.
Methods: 5431 adult female participants from NHANES 2013-2018 were included in this study. The definition of infertility was based on the interviewees' answers to the reproductive health questionnaire, which asked if they had visited a doctor because they had been unable to conceive or had tried to get pregnant for at least a year without success. ABSI was calculated as a continuous variable using an acknowledged equation. PHQ-9 score was assessed when face-to-face interviews for all participants, reflecting their depression symptoms.
Results: Among 5431 participants, 596 females (10.97% ) were diagnosed with infertility. Age, BMI, and ABSI were higher in infertile females. In multivariable logistic regression models, infertility status was positively related to increased ABSI (OR: 1.78e+15, 95% CI: 2.78e+5 to 1.15e+25), adjusted model by adjusting age, race/ethnicity, educational background, and family income. PHQ-9 score mediated 0.2% (p <0.05) of the link between ABSI and infertility in all individuals, but 13.5% (p <0.01) in overweight and obese adult females.
Conclusion: Depression score might increase ABSI and induce infertility state among adult females with overweight and obesity.
Influence of the timing of biological treatment initiation on Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis long- term outcomes
Authors: Oliveira-Ramos Filipa , Rodrigues Ana Maria , Melo Ana Teresa , Aguiar Francisca , Brites Luísa , Azevedo Soraia , Duarte Ana Catarina , Gomes José António Melo , Furtado Carolina , Mourão Ana Filipa , Sequeira Graça , Cunha Inês , Figueira Ricardo , Santos Maria José , Fonseca João Eurico 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Backgroud: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) treatment is aimed at inducing remission to prevent joint destruction and disability. However, it is unclear what is the long-term impact on health-related outcomes of the timing of biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (bDMARD) initiation in JIA. Our aim was to evaluate the long-term impact of the time between JIA onset and the initiation of a bDMARD in achieving clinical remission, on physical disability and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
Methods: Adult JIA patients registered in the Rheumatic Diseases Portuguese Register (Reuma.pt) and ever treated with bDMARD were included. Data regarding socio-demographic, JIA-related characteristics, disease activity, physical disability (HAQ-DI), HRQoL (SF-36) and treatments were collected at the last visit. Patients were divided into 3 groups (£ 2 years, 2-5 years, or > 5 years), according to the time from disease onset to bDMARD initiation. Regression models were obtained considering remission on/off medication, HAQ-DI, SF-36 and joint surgeries as outcomes and time from disease onset to bDMARD start as an independent variable.
Results: 361 adult JIA patients were evaluated, with a median disease duration of 20.3 [IQR 12.1; 30.2] years. 40.4% had active disease, 35.1% were in remission on medication and 24.4% in drug-free remission; 71% reported some degree of physical disability. Starting a bDMARD > 5 years after disease onset decreased the chance of achieving remission off medication (OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.06, 0.92; p= 0.038). Patients who started a bDMARD after 5 years of disease onset had a higher HAQ and worse scores in the physical component, vitality and social function domains of SF-36, and more joint surgeries when compared to an earlier start.
Conclusion: Later initiation of bDMARDs in JIA is associated with greater physical disability, worse HRQoL and lower chance of drug-free remission in adulthood.
The effectiveness and safety of exenatide in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Yan , Song Xiangxin , Hamiti Shaila , Ma Yanyong , Yusufu Mainu , Zhang Kaidi , Guo Yanying , Wang Xing 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the commonest cause of anovulatory infertility in women of childbearing age. Randomized controlled trials have reported that exenatide and metformin are effective in the treatment of PCOS. In this article, we aim to assess the effectiveness and safety of exenatide/exenatide + metformin in patients suffering from PCOS.
Methods
Randomized control trials (RCTs) of exenatide therapy were searched through electronic databases. Eligible studies were identified by two reviewers independently. Outcomes were analyzed through Revman 5.4.
Results
Nine RCTs of 96 studies on 1149 women with PCOS were included to be analyzed, and among the nine RCTs, eight studies compared exenatide with metformin. Our meta-analysis demonstrated that exenatide was more successfully tested in terms of pregnancy rate, menstrual frequency ratio (MFR), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), FSH. The reduction in total testosterone (TT), weight, BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist-hip ratio, fasting insulin (FINS) and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were more significant after treatment with exenatide. In terms of safety, exenatide had a lower diarrhea rate, compared with metformin. In the other three studies, exenatide combined with metformin was compared with metformin. Exenatide combined metformin was more effective in improving SHBG, Matsuda index and reducing free androgen index (FAI), Weight and WC. There was no significant difference on other data.
Conclusions
Exenatide is more effective than metformin and has high safety for women with PCOS. Considering the evidence of effectiveness and safety, exenatide may be a better treatment method for women with PCOS.
Systematic Review Registration:
INPLASY https://inplasy.com/inplasy-protocols/ ID: 10.37766/inplasy2022.11.0055.
The Swedish Childhood Tumor Biobank: Systematic collection and molecular characterization of all pediatric CNS and other solid tumors in Sweden
Authors: de Ståhl Teresita Díaz , Shamikh Alia , Mayrhofer Markus , Juhos Szilvester , Basmaci Elisa , Prochazka Gabriela , Garcia Maxime , Somarajan Praveen Raj , Illies Christopher , Øra Ingrid , Siesjö Peter , Sandström Per-Erik , Stenman Jakob , Sabel Magnus , Gustavsson Bengt , Kogner Per , Pfeifer Susan , Zielinska-Chomej Katarzyna , Ljungman Gustaf , Sandgren Johanna , Nistér Monica 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The Swedish Childhood Tumor Biobank (BTB) is a nonprofit national infrastructure for collecting tissue samples and genomic data from pediatric patients diagnosed with CNS and other solid tumors. The BTB is built on a multidisciplinary network established to provide the scientific community with standardized biospecimens and genomic data, thereby improving knowledge of the biology, treatment and outcome of childhood tumors. As of 2022, over 1100 fresh-frozen tumor samples are available for researchers. We present the workflow of the BTB from sample collection and processing to the generation of genomic data and services offered. To determine the research and clinical utility of the data, we performed bioinformatics analyses on next-generation sequencing (NGS) data obtained from a subset of 82 brain tumors and patient blood-derived DNA combined with methylation profiling to enhance the diagnostic accuracy and identified germline and somatic alterations with potential biological or clinical significance. The BTB procedures for collection, processing, sequencing, and bioinformatics deliver high-quality data. We observed that the findings could impact patient management by confirming or clarifying the diagnosis in 79 of the 82 tumors and detecting known or likely driver mutations in 68 of 79 patients. In addition to revealing known mutations in a broad spectrum of genes implicated in pediatric cancer, we discovered numerous alterations that may represent novel driver events and specific tumor entities. In summary, these examples reveal the power of NGS to identify a wide number of actionable gene alterations. Making the power of NGS available in healthcare is a challenging task requiring the integration of the work of clinical specialists and cancer biologists; this approach requires a dedicated infrastructure, as exemplified here by the BTB.