bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Is water fluoridation correlated with hypothyroidism?
Authors: Jarosz Piotr Michał , Gołacki Jakub , Matuszek Małgorzata 
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Hypothyroidism is a global health problem. Primary thyroid hormone deficiency may be caused by a wide spectrum of health problems, e.g. chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, postpartum thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, thyroid or parathyroid surgery and drugs. In recent years, scientific studies have also been published indicating a correlation between excessive intake of fluoride and hypothyroidism. Fluoride is added to the water sources of many countries.
Objective: The purpose of the study was to review and compare currently available data on PubMed about fluoride-induced hypothyroidism.
A brief description of the state of knowledge: Evidence based knowledge suggests that there is a potential relationship between water fluoridation and endocrine system disorders, especially hypothyroidism. Current studies indicate that TSH hormone levels get elevated with increased fluoride intake. The reason is supposed to be that fluorine is more electronegative than iodine and therefore easily displaces iodine from the body, thus affecting thyroid function.
Conclusions: Current studies do not clearly show a simple correlation between excessive fluoridation of drinking water and the occurrence of hypothyroidism. However, inconclusive scientific evidence and the prevalence of hypothyroidism in the population indicate the need for further research in this area.
Current state of populations, resources, and biological activity Pulsatilla patens (Ranunculaceae) in Northern Kazakhstan
Authors: AIDARKHANOVA GULNAR S. , KUBENTAYEV SERIK A. , KUKHAR YELENA V. , URAZALINA ALINA S. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract. Aidarkhanova GS, Kubentayev SA, Kukhar YV, Urazalina AS. 2022. Current state of populations, resources, and biological activity Pulsatilla patens (Ranunculaceae) in Northern Kazakhstan. Biodiversitas 23: 2311-2320. Pulsatilla (Ranunculaceae Juss.) is one of the complex groups in systematic and nomenclature terms, which has more than 30 taxa. Pulsatilla species are widely used against many pathologies. Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antimalarial, and antitumor properties of these plants are known. The object of our research was Pulsatilla patens (L.) Mill. (Ranunculaceae) from the allopathic complex P. patens with yellow flower color in the Northern regions of Kazakhstan. The article provides detailed information on environmental and biological features, morphology, geographical distribution, phylogenetic characteristics, and raw materials of P. patens in Northern Kazakhstan. In addition to these studies, the antimicrobial and fungicidal activity of extracts from leaves and roots of the species is shown. It was established that the species grows in 6 administrative regions of Central and Northern Kazakhstan and 7 floristic regions. In the studied region, P. patens are often found along rocky foothill terraces (mainly on the southern slopes), forest edges, along the southern slopes and tops of the hills of steppes, and among shrubs. Data on the study of P. patens biomorphology showed that quantitative parameters are characterized by the greatest intra- and inter-population variability CV (number of individuals per 1 m2 (38-69%); the number of basal leaves (44-61%); the number of generative shoots per bush (32-53%). Metric parameters such as height during flowering (17-27%), height during fruiting (12-18%), flower diameter (14-24%), leaf blade diameter (11-26%) are characterized by low and medium variability, both within the population and at the inter-population level. In the phenological aspect, the species begins to grow in the first half of April. Blooms from mid-April to early May. Bears fruit from the second half of May to early June. The complete end of vegetation falls at the end of September. Analysis of biological activity of stem extracts and leaves of P. patens of Kazakhstan population showed that they have pronounced fungicidal properties in relation to conditionally pathogenic yeast Candida parapsilosis and molds Aspergillus niger. Water decoction P. patens was also active against Escherichia coli, indicating that it has antibacterial properties.
RP-HPLC based analysis of different polyphenols in seven species of Carex L. (Cyperaceae Juss.) from West Bengal, India
Authors: RAJAK POOJA , GHOSH ASOK 
Published: May 2022

Abstract. Rajak P, Ghosh A. 2022. RP-HPLC based analysis of different polyphenols in seven species of Carex L. (Cyperaceae Juss.) from West Bengal, India. Biodiversitas 23: 2329-2341. Carex L. is one of the important genera of the family Cyperaceae having immense ecological significance and probable therapeutic potentiality due to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals i.e. polyphenols. RP-HPLC (reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography) based evaluation of polyphenols concerned with the chemotaxonomy of this genus, was a fundament of reported research but the evaluation of its therapeutic possibilities are still an open field of research. In concerned with the above aim, phytochemical investigation was done by analyzing the seven species of Indian Carexto to evaluate polyphenols employing RP-HPLC. The above-mentioned analysis reveals differences in the presence as well as the amount of these marker phytochemical components compositions of each and every studied species of Carex. Total of nine polyphenols was used as standard among which, except coumaric acid, all of the polyphenols were detected in considerable amount in the studied species. Among these seven species, Carex stramentitia Boott ex Boeckeler and C. alopecuroides D. Don were found to contain a higher number of polyphenols. Gallic acid was quantified in the highest amount in C. baccans Nees. A higher amount of phloroglucinol was also detected in C. insignis Boott and C. baccans. Remarkably, biochanin A, a highly significant therapeutic phytochemical, was only observed in higher amounts in C. alopecuroides.
Morphological and molecular characterization of mole crab (Genus: Emerita) in the Cilacap coastlines of Indonesia, with particular focus on genetic diversity of Emerita sp. nov.
Authors: BHAGAWATI DIAN , NURYANTO AGUS , WINARNI ELLY TUTY , PULUNGSARI ANASTASIA ENDANG 
Published: May 2022

Abstract.Bhagawati D, Nuryanto A, Winarni ET, Pulungsari AE. 2022. Morphological and molecular characterization of mole crab (Genus: Emerita) in the Cilacap coastlines of Indonesia, with particular focus on genetic diversity of Emerita sp. nov. Biodiversitas 23: 2395-2404. Previous studies reported Emerita emeritus is the only species of the Genus Emerita inhabiting the coastal ecosystem of the Cilacap District. A recent study reported the presence of suspected new Emerita species living on the Cilacap sandy beach but used a small number of specimens and no reports about genetic diversity. This study used more Emerita samples than the previous study. This study aimed to identify Emerita specimens based on the morphology and the cytochrome c oxidase 1 gene and analyzed the genetic diversity of Emerita sp. nov. Emerita samples were collected from three different beaches in Cilacap District, Central Java, Indonesia. Morphological identification placed the samples into two different morphotypes. Morphotype A was identified as Emerita emeritus. Morphotype B was determined as Emerita sp. nov. Molecular data support the placement of Emerita samples into Emerita emeritus, and Emeritasp. nov. Emeritasp. nov. has haplotype diversity of 0.857±0.057, indicating a high genetic diversity. Haplotype H2 was suggested as the most primitive one because other haplotypes radiated from it. This study concluded that two sympatric Emerita species inhabit Cilacap coastlines, and Emeritasp. nov. has high genetic diversity.
Examining the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Caregivers of Children with Complex and Chronic Conditions
Authors: Greer Molly , Pierce Chelsea 
Published: May 2022

In March of 2020 the president of the United States declared a national emergency as COVID-19 transmitted across the globe. Over 18 months later , the pandemic continues to pose challenges as residents of the world adapt to the ever-changing shuffle of precautions, regulations, and restrictions. During this unprecedented time we have globally learned to expect the unexpected; which has become the norm. Caregivers of Children with Complex and Chronic Conditions wear multiple hats when taking care of their children. They may serve as a nurse, therapist, educational advocate, chauffeur, or personal assistant. Due to the ever changing routines and mandates as a result of the pandemic, parents have become worn down leading to mental health concerns and caregiver burnout. During the pandemic caused by COVID-19, caregivers of children with unique needs are faced with a new set of challenges
Impact of BNT162b2 primary vaccination and homologous booster on anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA antibodies in baseline seronegative healthcare workers
Authors: Salvagno Gian Luca , Henry Brandon M. , Pighi Laura , De Nitto Simone , Lippi Giuseppe 
Published: May 2022

Abstract

Objectives
We investigated here the response of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA antibodies to BNT162b2 primary vaccination followed by administration of a homologous booster dose in baseline seronegative healthcare workers.

Methods
The study population included 69 healthy recipients of primary BNT162b2 vaccination (two doses) followed by administration of a single homologous booster after 8 months. Blood samples were collected throughout the study, starting before the first vaccine dose, up to 1 month after the booster. The serum levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA were assayed with Euroimmun Anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike S1 ELISA IgA.

Results
A first peak of serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA was seen 1 month after the second BNT162b2 dose, after which values gradually declined, with stabilization after 6 months. The BNT162b2 booster (third dose) elicited a second peak, comparable to that observed 1 month after the second dose (p=0.100). Highly significant correlation was found between pre- and post-booster anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA serum values (r=0.41; p<0.001), whilst no significant correlation was observed with age (r=0.10; p=0.416) or sex (r=0.04; p=0.729). The rate of SARS-CoV-2 IgA seropositive recipients increased from 0% before vaccination to 80 and 97% after the first and second vaccine dose, but then declined becoming 74% at 3 months and 54% at 6 months, respectively, after which stabilization was reached. The BNT162b2 booster dose restored the seropositivity rate to 99%.

Conclusions
These results support the suggestion that vaccine boosters may be advisable after 3 months from primary vaccination to restore IgA to protective levels, especially in those at higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and complications.
Damage self-sensing and strain monitoring of glass-reinforced epoxy composite impregnated with graphene nanoplatelet and multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Ahmad Mohammad Asraf Alif , Mohd Jamir Mohd Ridzuan , Abdul Majid Mohd Shukry , Refaai Mohamad Reda A. , Meng Cheng Ee , Abu Bakar Maslinda 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
The damage self-sensing and strain monitoring of glass-reinforced epoxy composites impregnated with graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were investigated. Hand lay-up and vacuum bagging methods were used to fabricate the composite. Mechanical stirrer, high shear mixer, and ultrasonic probe were used to mix the nanofiller and epoxy. The loadings of the nanofiller used were 0.5, 1.5, 3, and 5 wt%. The specimens were tested using in situ electromechanical measurements under mechanical tests. The results show that the type and weight content of the nanofiller affect the electrical properties, damage self-sensing behaviour, and mechanical properties of the composites. The electrical conductivity of the GNP-glass and MWCNT-glass composites increased with nanofiller content. The tensile and flexural strengths of the composite improved with the addition of GNP and MWCNT nanofillers from 0.5 to 3 wt%. The 3 wt% nanofiller loading for GNP and MWCNT produces better mechanical–electrical performance. Field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed the dispersion of GNP and MWCNT nanofillers in the composites.
Independent risk factors for seizures in critically ill patients on continuous EEG
Authors: Naves Pedro V.F. , Caboclo Luis O. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractObjective. The objective of this study was to characterize the independent risk factors for seizures in critically ill patients monitored with continuous EEG (cEEG).Methods. We retrospectively investigated variables associated with cEEG seizures, first in the entire cohort of 156 patients and, subsequently, in the subgroup without seizures in the first 30 minutes of monitoring.Results. Seizures were observed in 19.2% of recordings, and in 50% of these, seizures occurred in the first 30 minutes. In the entire cohort, epilepsy, acute seizures prior to cEEG, interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs), lateralized periodic discharges (LPDs), and brief potentially ictal rhythmic discharges (BIRDs) were associated with a higher incidence of cEEG seizures, whereas coma, intravenous anaesthetic drugs, and generalized periodic discharges (GPDs) were associated with a lower incidence of seizures. On multivariate analysis, this association was maintained for acute seizures before cEEG (OR: 5.92) and IEDs (OR: 6.81). Excluding patients with seizures at the beginning of monitoring, acute seizures before cEEG, IEDs, LPDs, and BIRDs were associated with an increased risk of seizures. The presence of IEDs or LPDs in the first 30 minutes was associated with a 4.14‐fold greater chance of seizures on cEEG. On multivariate analysis, acute seizures prior to recording (OR 7.29) and LPDs (OR: 5.38) remained associated with seizures on cEEG. Due to the sample size, BIRDs were not included in multivariate models.Significance. Acute seizures prior to monitoring, IEDs, LPDs and BIRDs are important risk factors for cEEG seizures in critically ill patients.
Epileptic negative myoclonus in herpes simplex virus encephalitis
Authors: Fotedar Neel , Dolbow James , Layfield Madhura , Thyagaraj Suraj , Zande Jonathan 
Published: May 2022

AbstractEpileptic negative myoclonus (ENM) is a rarely reported clinical seizure semiology. It is defined as a brief interruption of tonic muscle activity in association with an epileptiform discharge on the EEG (spike or sharp wave) without preceding myoclonia. The diagnosis of ENM requires a polygraphic recording with EEG and surface EMG electrodes covering the affected body part(s), while the muscles have tonic activity. Historically, ENM has been reported in a variety of chronic epilepsy syndromes such as benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes, progressive myoclonic epilepsy syndromes, symptomatic partial epilepsy syndromes due to structural pathologies, cryptogenic epilepsies, etc. In this paper, we report a patient with herpes simplex virus encephalitis who presented with multiple different seizure types including ENM. The patient showed significant improvement after treatment with acyclovir.
The behavioural finance paradigm and the adaptive market hypothesis
Authors: Yousuf Zakhiyya , Makina Daniel 
Published: May 2022

This study tests for the applicability of the Adaptive Market Hypothesis (AMH) and Bounded rationality theories on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). This is in order to determine the influence of behavioural risk factors on the efficiency of the stock market. Behavioural theories show a gap in the theory of Efficient Market Hypothesis. Using quantile regression, our study established the applicability of the Adaptive Market Hypothesis on the JSE. Past market returns were shown to be significant in predicting future returns and thus did not follow a random walk. The lagged return increased at higher quantiles and differed with changes in market conditions (i.e. pre-financial crisis, financial crisis and post-financial crisis). Thus, the predictability of returns varies with a change in market conditions. This paper is focused on only on the Johannesburg stock exchange in South Africa, more specifically the movement is the all share index. The findings should be able to be applied to emerging and developed economies. Business confidence is found to have a negative relationship with returns showing a lag in time for sentiment to be incorporated in prices. In contrast, consumer confidence is found to have a positive relationship with returns. In summary, investors are shown to be influenced by fundamental and behavioural factors.
A Narrative Review of the Pathophysiology of Mucormycosis Infection Among COVID-19 Patients in India: Epidemiology and Clinical Implications
Authors: Ramani Vinod , Naik Radheshyam 
Published: May 2022

Background and Objective: During the second COVID-19 wave in India (April to May 2021), mucormycosis has affected the ‘recovering’ and the ‘recovered but vulnerable’ COVID-19 patients across the country. This review synthesizes information on the risk factors and pathophysiology of mucor infection among COVID-19 patients, which in turn supplements existing information from public health and clinical sciences. The study objective includes analyzing the morbidity of mucor infection and its pathophysiological mechanism, during India’s second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar databases, using the following text terms: ‘COVID-19,’ ‘SARS-CoV-2,’ ‘mucormycosis,’ and ‘zygomycosis.’ We identified 24 citations and 16 other published literature which described mucormycosis in association with COVID-19. The relevant literature was analyzed for findings on the risk factors of mucor infection and its outcome among individuals with COVID-19.
Results: The risk factors for mucor infection include diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression (for example, the administration of steroids/monoclonal antibodies/broad-spectrum antibiotics), prolonged stay in the intensive care unit, co-morbidities such as malignancy or post-transplantation, and prophylactic therapy with voriconazole (generic anti-fungal). The second wave of COVID-19 in India was more severe due to the increased occurrence of systemic inflammation and coagulopathy, which can cause direct damage to the blood vessels resulting in injuries to organs such as the liver, kidney, and heart.
Conclusion and Implications for Translation: The increased incidence of mucormycosis during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India (April to May 2021) was due to a combination of immunocompromising effects of corticosteroids, microangiopathy of diabetes, and peripheral microthrombi among COVID-19 patients. The indiscriminate usage of steroids for treating COVID-19 disease seems to be the likely cause, including the use of immunomodulatory drugs such as interleukin 6 inhibitors like tocilizumab (TCZ) for patients with severe COVID-19. Clinical practices should adopt a judicious approach towards the prescription of steroids and monitoring blood sugar for all COVID-19 patients admitted to the hospital as well as those isolated at home (even during the post-recovery period). The high mortality rate of mucor infection demands appropriate primary prevention measures, as well as early diagnosis and treatment modalities for improving patient survival.

Copyright © 2022 Ramani et al. Published by Global Health and Education Projects, Inc. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0.
Treatment with locking intramedullary nailing for intertrochanteric fracture of femur: application of a new guide awl with a distal positioner
Authors: Liu Binbin , Xu Fei , Liu Yang , Zheng Zehang , Xu Hanqing , Huang Chuang , Luo Zhengqiang 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
The use of interlocked intramedullary nail has become the preferred method of treatment for intertrochanteric fracture of the femur. This study explored a new guide awl with a distal positioner assisting the guide wire insertion and opening canal, and verification the accuracy and security of our new guide awl.
Methods
42 patients with intertrochanteric fracture treated by locking intramedullary nailing were retrospectively analyzed. 19 patients underwent the operation using the new guide awl, the other 20 patients in the control group were operated with the help of the conventional guide apparatus. Three patients with insufficient follow-up were excluded from analysis. Describe the new guide awl with a distal positioner usage in the operations. Operation time, the success rate of one-time insertion, fluoroscopy time, blood loss and bone healing time were recorded.
Results
42 patients (25 males and 17 females) were treated with Gamma 3 and PFNA with the help of the new guide awl with a distal positioner or the conventional guide apparatus. The surgical time in new guide awl group was significantly shorter compared to the control group. The success rate of one-time wire insertion in the new guide apparatus group was 89.5%, which was higher than the 65% of the control group. The fluoroscopy time in new guide apparatus group is obviously lower than in the control group. There was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss and bone healing time.
Conclusion
The new guide awl with a distal positioner we designed could reduce the difficulty in opening the femur for inserting the interlocked intramedullary nail. It is especially suitable for obese patients.
Impact of short segment fixation on Spinopelvic Sagittal Alignment in Thoracolumbar Fracture Cases
Authors: Li Kepeng , Ma Guoju , Zhao Heyi , Han Ye , Zuo Jinzeng 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: Previous studies have reported the impact of thoracolumbar kyphosis induced by spinal burst fracture on spinopelvic sagittal alignment. But no study has analyzed the effects of short segment fixation on spinopelvic parameters in patients with spinal burst fracture. Thus, this study aimed to explore the impact of short segment fixation on spinopelvic sagittal alignment in patients with thoracolumbar fractures.Methods: Perioperative radiographs of 42 patients with thoracolumbar fractures treated with short-segment fixation surgery were obtained. The pelvic and spinal parameters were measured, and the influence of fracture site on all parameters was retrospectively analyzed. A descriptive analysis characterizing these parameters and multivariate analysis was performed to investigate the influencing factors of thoracolumbar kyphosis.Results: The mean age of included cases was 47.1±9.9 years, Pelvic incidence(PI) was 44.1±4.7º. Preoperative fractured level kyphosis (FLK) and thoracolumbar kyphosis(TLK) were 10.3±9.9º and 15.6±10.4º, respectively. Operative corrected degree(OCD) of FLK and TLK were 6.8±7.9º and 7.7±8.4º, respectively. Preoperative parameters, including FLK, TLK, Pelvic tilt (PT), Sacral slope (SS), Lumbar lordosis (LL), were no different in the different fracture sites. PT-OCD is greater in L2～L5 fractures than in T12～L1(t=0.82, P=0.03). FLK-OCD(B=0.36), LL-OCD(B=-0.34) and PT-OCD(B=0.22), as well as age(B=-0.23) were independent factors to influence TLK-OCD. Pelvis anteversion and high FLK-OCD was associated with a more satisfactory correction of the TLK deformity. TLK-OCD was negatively influenced by age. Conclusions: Short segment fixation surgery can correct TLK caused by fractures. Satisfactory TLK-OCD is related to excellent fracture reduction, pelvic anteversion, and younger patients. With FLK fixed by operation, the pelvis rotates from rear to front, more obviously in lumbar fractures. Trial registration: The trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials ( www.irct.ir ) on 03/02/2019 as IRCT20180408039227N1.