In-depth Assessment Research Articles

Mapping the current trends and hotspots of adult hippocampal neurogenesis from 2004-2023: a bibliometric analysis.

We utilized bibliometric and data visualization techniques to discern the primary research domains and emerging frontiers in the field of adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN). We systematically searched the Web of Science database for AHN-related articles published between 2004 and 2023. The retrieved articles were filtered based on publication types (articles and reviews) and language (English). We employed CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the online bibliometric platform (bibliometric.com) to visualize and analyze the collected data. In total, 1,590 AHN-related publications were discovered, exhibiting a steady increase in yearly publications over time. The United States emerged as the leading contributor in AHN research in terms of both publication quantity and national influence. Among all research institutions in the field of AHN, the University of California System exhibited the highest impact. Kempermann, Gerd was the most active author. The publications of the top three active authors primarily focused on the functions of AHN, and reversing hippocampal damage and cognitive impairment by improving AHN. An analysis of reference co-citation clustering revealed 8 distinct research clusters, and the notable ones included "adult hippocampal neurogenesis," "neurogenesis," "hippocampus," "dentate gyrus," "neural stem cell," and "depression." Additionally, a burst keyword detection indicated that 'anxiety' is a current research hotspot in the field of AHN. This in-depth bibliographic assessment of AHN offers a deeper insight into the present research hotspots in the field. The association between AHN and cognitive diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and anxiety, has emerged as a prominent research hotspot.

Uncovering multi-level mental healthcare barriers for migrants: a qualitative analysis across China, Germany, Netherlands, Romania, and South Africa

BackgroundForced displacement is a significant issue globally, and it affected 112 million people in 2022. Many of these people have found refuge in low- and middle-income countries. Migrants and refugees face complex and specialized health challenges, particularly in the area of mental health. This study aims to provide an in-depth qualitative assessment of the multi-level barriers that migrants face in accessing mental health services in Germany, Macao (Special Administrative Region of China), the Netherlands, Romania, and South Africa. The ultimate objective is to inform tailored health policy and management practices for this vulnerable population.MethodsAdhering to a qualitative research paradigm, the study centers on stakeholders’ perspectives spanning microsystems, mesosystems, and macrosystems of healthcare. Utilizing a purposive sampling methodology, key informants from the aforementioned geographical locations were engaged in semi-structured interviews. Data underwent thematic content analysis guided by a deductive-inductive approach.ResultsThe study unveiled three pivotal thematic barriers: language and communication obstacles, cultural impediments, and systemic constraints. The unavailability of professional interpreters universally exacerbated language barriers across all countries. Cultural barriers, stigmatization, and discrimination, specifically within the mental health sector, were found to limit access to healthcare further. Systemic barriers encompassed bureaucratic intricacies and a conspicuous lack of resources, including a failure to recognize the urgency of mental healthcare needs for migrants.ConclusionsThis research elucidates the multifaceted, systemic challenges hindering equitable mental healthcare provision for migrants. It posits that sweeping policy reforms are imperative, advocating for the implementation of strategies, such as increasing the availability of language services, enhancing healthcare providers’ capacity, and legal framework and policy change to be more inclusive. The findings substantially contribute to scholarly discourse by providing an interdisciplinary and international lens on the barriers to mental healthcare access for displaced populations.

Arctic Oceanic Carbon Cycle: A Comprehensive Review of Mechanisms, Regulations, and Models

Understanding the oceanic carbon cycle, particularly in the Arctic regions, is crucial for addressing climate change. However, significant research gaps persist, especially regarding climate effects on the oceanic carbon cycle in these regions. This review systematically explores Arctic-related research, focusing on mechanisms, regulatory frameworks, and modelling approaches in the oceanic carbon cycle, carbon sink, climate change impact, and maritime shipping. The findings highlight the Arctic’s limited observer presence and high operational costs, hindering the data availability and studies on carbon-cycle changes. This underscores the need to integrate real-time Arctic Ocean monitoring data. Carbon sink research urgently requires direct methods to measure anthropogenic carbon uptake and address uncertainties in air–ocean carbon fluxes due to sea ice melting. Unlike terrestrial carbon cycling research, carbon-cycle studies in the oceans, which are essential for absorbing anthropogenic emissions, receive insufficient attention, especially in the Arctic regions. Numerous policies often fall short in achieving effective mitigation, frequently depending on voluntary or market-based approaches. Analyzing carbon-cycle and sink models has uncovered limitations, primarily due to their global perspective, hampering in-depth assessments of climate change effects on the Arctic regions. To pave the way for future research, enhancing Arctic Ocean climate data availability is recommended, as well as fostering international cooperation in carbon-cycle research, enforcing carbon policies, and improving regional modelling in the Arctic Ocean.

Enhancing sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture: Optimization of greenhouse energy consumption through microgrid systems utilizing advanced meta-heuristic algorithms

Greenhouses offer controlled microclimates that enable year-round cultivation, improving food security and agricultural productivity. However, greenhouses are energy-intensive, with heating accounting for a significant portion of the associated costs. This study explores optimal microgrid configurations, economic viability, and policy recommendations for sustainable greenhouse agriculture in Nigeria. An in-depth energy assessment of a reference greenhouse in a South Korean facility is conducted. Distinct climatic differences between South Korea and Nigeria are highlighted, emphasizing the need for tailored greenhouse designs and energy solutions. Shifting focus to Nigeria, this study investigates the feasibility of hybrid renewable energy systems with a focus on wind and solar power across six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. The analysis encompasses technical, economic, and policy aspects, providing a holistic perspective on renewable energy adoption. Notably, the study uses an advanced optimization model, Teaching and Learning–Based Optimization algorithm, to assess the net present cost and baseload supply reliability, offering valuable insights for investors and policymakers. The result indicates diverse energy requirements across Nigeria, with total monthly peak energy demands ranging from 5374.80 kWh in the Southeast to 17,115.76 kWh in the Northwest, and a notable variation in the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), with the lowest at $0.07327 in Kano. Specifically, in Ogun, the net present cost for the WT-PV-ESS system stood at $520,935.45, while the PV-ESS system cost was substantially lower at $500,444.41. This confirms the effectiveness of location-specific analysis and shows the suitability of photovoltaic–battery energy storage systems for Nigeria's diverse regions, with unique considerations for specific areas. Policy recommendations, including feed-in tariffs, renewable portfolio standards, net metering, research support, and market development, provide a holistic framework for the adoption of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. Improving infrastructure, market access, and financing for smallholder farmers is integral for improving food security and standards of living in rural Nigeria. In conclusion, Nigeria can leverage renewable resources to revolutionize its energy and agriculture sectors, setting an example for a sustainable and resilient future.

Novel molecular, structural and clinical findings in an Italian cohort of congenital cataract.

The current genetic diagnostic workup of congenital cataract (CC) is mainly based on NGS panels, whereas exome sequencing (ES) has occasionally been employed. In this multicentre study, we investigated by ES the detection yield, mutational spectrum and genotype-phenotype correlations in a CC cohort recruited between 2020 and mid-2022. The cohort consisted of 67 affected individuals from 51 unrelated families and included both non-syndromic (75%) and syndromic (25%) phenotypes, with extra-CC ocular/visual features present in both groups (48% and 76%, respectively). The functional effect of variants was predicted by 3D modelling and hydropathy properties changes. Variant clustering was used for the in-depth assessment of genotype-phenotype correlations. A diagnostic (pathogenic or likely pathogenic) variant was identified in 19 out of 51 probands/families (~37%). In a further 14 probands/families a candidate variant was identified: in 12 families a VUS was detected, of which 9 were considered plausibly pathogenic (i.e., 4 or 5 points according to ACMG criteria), while in 2 probands ES identified a single variant in an autosomal recessive gene associated with CC. Eighteen probands/families, manifesting primarily non-syndromic CC (15/18, 83%), remained unsolved. The identified variants (8 P, 12 LP, 10 VUS-PP, and 5 VUS), half of which were unreported in the literature, affected five functional categories of genes involved in transcription/splicing, lens formation/homeostasis (i.e., crystallin genes), membrane signalling, cell-cell interaction, and immune response. A phenotype-specific variant clustering was observed in four genes (KIF1A, MAF, PAX6, SPTAN1), whereas variable expressivity and potential phenotypic expansion in two (BCOR, NHS) and five genes (CWC27, KIF1A, IFIH1, PAX6, SPTAN1), respectively. Finally, ES allowed to detect variants in six genes not commonly included in commercial CC panels. These findings broaden the genotype-phenotype correlations in one of the largest CC cohorts tested by ES, providing novel insights into the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms and emphasising the power of ES as first-tier test.

Addressing emerging public health threats: the Noncommunicable Disease Capacity Assessment and Planning (N-CAP) Process.

The global epidemic of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) is increasing. Current assessments that monitor capacity to address NCDs are often externally led and do not facilitate country planning. The Noncommunicable Disease Capacity Assessment and Planning (N-CAP) Process assists ministries of health and other governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to assess, prioritize, and plan how to address NCDs and other public health threats. This paper describes the development of this tool. Driven by ministries of health, the N-CAP Process engages new and existing stakeholders in three activities: Stakeholder Mapping; Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats Workshop; and N-CAP Workshop that uses Discussion Guides to lead in-depth assessment and planning. Standard Operating Procedures, a library of Discussion Guides based on common NCD themes, and an open-access e-learning course are available. The N-CAP Process outcome is a prioritized plan of how to improve the country's public health functions. Adaptations to the tool were made after piloting in Jordan and Iraq. The N-CAP Process helps countries engage various stakeholders to identify gaps and create collaborative, country-specific strategies to effectively respond to NCDs, a leading public health threat. The pilots sparked interest from other countries and underscored its potential for broader implementation to combat the rising global burden of NCDs.

In-depth assessment of new coumarin derivative based on azo dye and Schiff base as an effective corrosion inhibitor for steel in 1 M HCl solution and anti sulphate reducing bacteria: Insights from computational and experimental techniques

This paper examines the innovative application of PAEOD as a corrosion suppressant for steel in an acidic environment with a concentration of 1.0 M HCl. The inhibitory potential of PAEOD has been comprehensively evaluated through the utilization of diverse analytical approaches, including electrochemical tests, gravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) assessments. The results suggest that there is a correlation between concentration and the enhancement of corrosion resistance, hence categorizing PAEOD as a mixed-type inhibitor. The maximum inhibitory efficiency was observed at a concentration of 7.50 × 10-4 M, resulting in a remarkable efficiency of 98.84 % at a temperature of 298 K. The electrochemical investigation demonstrated a significant rise in the values of charge transfer resistance (Rct) and polarization resistance (Rp), accompanied by a reduction in the Constant Phase Element (CPE.Yo) value to 74.01 μF. These findings suggest an improved capacity for inhibiting corrosion. Theoretical studies have revealed a significant interaction between PAEOD and the steel surface, as evidenced by the utilization of density functional theory (DFT) and Monte Carlo/ Molecular dynamic (MC/MD) techniques. This interaction indicates the presence of exceptional anti-corrosion properties at the micro-level. The impact of PAEOD on the growth of sulphate reducing bacteria (SRB) was found to be substantial, as indicated by the findings derived from BART™ Vials. In summary, this work establishes PAEOD as a potentially effective corrosion inhibitor, offering significant contributions to the field of corrosion prevention strategies through its important insights.

Relationship between vertical jump performance and playing time and efficiency in professional male basketball players.

With innovative force plate technology being available to many sports organizations worldwide that allow for time-efficient in-depth neuromuscular performance assessment, the purpose of the present study was to examine the relationship between some of the most commonly analyzed countermovement vertical jump (CVJ) force-time metrics and basketball playing time and efficiency. Twenty-four professional male basketball players volunteered to participate in the present study. The CVJ testing procedures were conducted within the first quarter of the competitive season span. Following a standardized warm-up protocol, each athlete stepped on a dual uni-axial force plate system sampling at 1,000 Hz and performed three maximum-effort CVJs with no arm swing. To minimize the possible influence of fatigue, each jump trial was separated by a 10-15 s rest interval and the average value across three jumps was used for performance analysis purposes. Basketball playing efficiency and average playing time were obtained at the end of the regular season competitive period from the coaching staff records and the official team records. Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients (r) were used to examine the strength of the relationships between force-time metrics and basketball playing time and efficiency, separately for each dependent variable (p < 0.05). A significant positive association was observed between playing efficiency and eccentric mean force and eccentric mean and peak power (r = 0.406-0.552). Similarly, an increase in eccentric mean power was positively correlated with the number of minutes played during the competitive season (r = 0.464). Moreover, the aforementioned relationship remained present even when eccentric mean power was expressed relative to the player's body mass (r = 0.406). Thus, the findings of the present study indicate that, at the professional level of men's basketball competition, CVJ eccentric strength and power have a positive impact on both playing time and efficiency.

Endocrine system, cell growth and death, and energy metabolism induced by Sb(III) exposure in earthworm (Pheretima guillemi) revealed by transcriptome and metabolome analysis

Antimony (Sb) is known for its severe and extensive toxicity, and earthworms are considered important indicator organisms in soil ecosystems. Therefore, the present study investigated the mechanism of toxicity of the Sb at different concentrations (50, 200 mg/kg) on earthworms using biochemical indicators, pathological sections, as well as metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses. The results showed that as the exposure concentration increased, both the antioxidant system of earthworms, extent of intestinal damage, and their metabolomic characteristics were significantly enhanced. In the 50 and 200 mg/kg Sb treatment group, 30 and 177 significant differentially changed metabolites (DCMs) were identified, respectively, with the most DCMs being down- and up-regulated, respectively. Metabolomics analysis showed that the contents of dl-tryptophan, glutamic acid, glycine, isoleucine, l-methionine, involved in the protein digestion and absorption as well as aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis were significantly up-regulated under the 200 mg/kg treatment. At the transcriptional level, Sb mainly affected the immune system, nervous system, amino acid metabolism, endocrine system, and carbohydrate metabolism in earthworms. The integration of transcriptomic and metabolomic data indicated that high doses of Sb regulated the metabolites and genes related to the oxidative phosphorylation pathway in earthworms. Overall, these results revealed global responses beyond the scope of conventional toxicity endpoints and facilitated a more in-depth and comprehensive assessment of the toxic effects of Sb.

Combining the Elicitor Up-Regulated Production of Unusual Linear Diterpene-Derived Variants for an In-Depth Assessment of the Application Value and Risk of the Medicinal and Edible Basidiomycete Schizophyllum commune.

To better assess the practical value and avoid potential risks of the traditionally medicinal and edible basidiomycete Schizophyllum commune, which may arise from undescribed metabolites, a combination of elicitors was introduced for the first time to discover products from cryptic and low-expressed gene clusters under laboratory cultivation. Treating S. commune NJFU21 with the combination of five elicitors led to the upregulated production of a class of unusual linear diterpene-derived variants, including eleven new ones (1-11), along with three known ones (12-14). The structures and stereochemistry were determined by 1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS, ECD, OR and VCD calculations. Notably, the elongation terminus of all the diterpenes was decorated by an unusual butenedioic acid moiety. Compound 1 was a rare monocyclic diterpene, while 2-6 possessed a tetrahydrofuran moiety. The truncated metabolites 4, 5 and 13 belong to the trinorditerpenes. All the diterpenes displayed approximately 70% scavenging of hydroxyl radicals at 50 μM and null cytotoxic activity at 10 μM. In addition, compound 1 exhibited potent antifungal activity against the plant pathogenic fungi Colletotrichum camelliae, with MIC values of 8 μg/mL. Our findings indicated that this class of diterpenes could provide valuable protectants for cosmetic ingredients and the lead compounds for agricultural fungicide development.

Decade-long insights into transperineal prostate biopsy in a west China population: Temporal trend, targeted and repeat biopsies, and pathological characterization.

e17004 Background: Despite advances in prostate cancer (PCa) detection, the need for improving diagnostics and in-depth assessment of the latest prostate biopsy (PBx) techniques through extensive, longitudinal studies remains critical. Methods: Data from 10,378 PBx involving 10,038 patients were retrospectively examined. We detailed the yearly changes in PBx numbers and patient diagnoses, the real-world efficacy of PI-RADS scoring, MRI-targeted biopsy (MRI-TBx), and repeat PBx. We also outlined the detection rates and the clinical profiles of non-adenocarcinoma (non-AC) PCa. Results: A consistent annual increase in PBx was witnessed, with the positive rate climbing to approximately 55%. There was a gradual decline in median age, PSA levels, and M1 stage proportion among PCa patients, suggesting an earlier diagnosis trend. However, compared to Western populations, our center's patients had a significantly higher incidence of M1 stage (34% vs. 6%, P&lt;0.001) and, within the M0 category, presented with older age and elevated baseline PSA levels. Integrating MRI-TBx into the 12-core systematic biopsy (SBx) led to a numerical improvement in PCa detection and enhanced ISUP grading accuracy. Merging MRI-TBx with a 6-core SBx achieved a median clinically significant PCa (csPCa) detection rate of 39.76% in men with PSA&lt;20ng/mL, similar to that of MRI-TBx with a 12-core SBx (40.36%). Furthermore, we identified 1,455 men with non-AC PCa, occurring less in localized cases (about 15%) but more in metastatic cases (over 50%), and exhibiting more aggressive characteristics compared to adenocarcinoma-only cases. Besides, among the 305 individuals undergoing repeat PBx, 62 csPCa cases were identified, all of which exhibited lower positive cores, ISUP grading, and M1 stage incidence than men diagnosed by initial PBx. Conclusions: Analyzing a decade's worth of PBx data from one of the largest Asian cohorts offered pivotal insights into the evolving epidemiology and clinical profiles of PBx, which are essential for shaping future diagnostic approaches for PCa.

TEMPORARY REMOVAL: Factors Affecting Anemia among Women of Reproductive Age in Mexico: A Mixed-Methods Country Case Study

BackgroundIn Mexico, anemia prevalence among women of reproductive age (WRA) decreased from 16.4% in 2006 to 11.6% in 2012, only to increase to 18.3% in 2016. The factors associated with this fluctuation are uncertain. ObjectiveWe conducted a systematic in-depth assessment of the quantitative and qualitative determinants of anemia among WRA in Mexico between 2006 and 2018. MethodsUsing multivariate stepwise linear regression, we analyzed Mexico’s Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición (ENSANUT) surveys from 2006, 2012, and 2018 to identify determinants of WRA anemia. We also conducted a review of anemia-relevant programs and policies, including financing documents, and conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders in Mexico. ResultsAmong non-pregnant women (NPW) 15-49 years, mean hemoglobin (Hb) increased from 13.8 g/dL in 2006 to 14.0 g/dL in 2012, decreasing to 13.2 g/dL in 2018 (p<0.001). Inequities by geographical region and household wealth persisted throughout this period, with household wealth, urban residence and gravidity emerging as significant predictors of Hb among NPW. Qualitative analyses generally supported these findings. The most discussed program was Progresa-Oportunidades-Prospera (POP), where most resources for health were invested and most participants acknowledged that its cancellation in 2019 would lead to worsening in health and nutrition among the poor. Financing analyses showed a drop of funding for nutrition-related programs between 2014 and 2018. Cultural norms around gender roles were still prevalent, along with increasing rates of teenage pregnancy. ConclusionsAnemia prevention efforts need to refocus on poverty alleviation, continuity of adequate coverage and financing of nutrition programs, especially with safety nets, and increase in uptake of family planning, especially among adolescent girls.

Energy Cooperatives and Communities to Foster Social Innovation in the EU – a Bulgarian Case Study – Prospects and Barriers

Abstract The paper aims to identify how energy cooperatives and energy communities could affect the social innovation within the European Union as a whole and specifically in Bulgaria. It begins with an applicable legislation and energy policy analysis and provides a helicopter view of the regulatory framework connected with the energy communities and copperatives on both European and national level, as well as the opportunities for their future development. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify the gaps, which consists of a bibliometric and a content analysis and outlines a growing interest in those relatively new energy formations that promote renewable energy sources, enhance energy security and empower local communities. It highlights the current research gap and endorses the need for the conduction of some additional deeper researches and empirical studies. The SWOT analysis provides an in-depth assessment of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threads of those energy formations in Bulgaria, with an emphasis on their advantages and the challenges in front of them. The results provide a clear understanding of the factors that can help the growth and sustainability of those energy organizations and how they can endorse the energy transition in the country and in the European Union as a whole.

TEMPORARY REMOVAL: Drivers of Anemia Reduction among Women of Reproductive Age in Senegal: A Country Case Study

BackgroundIn Senegal, anemia prevalence among women of reproductive age (WRA) decreased from 59% in 2005 to 54% in 2017. However, determinants of reduction in disease burden under challenging public health conditions have not been studied. ObjectiveTo conduct a systematic in-depth assessment of the quantitative and qualitative determinants of anemia reduction among WRA in Senegal between 2005 and 2017. MethodsStandard Exemplars in Global Health methodology was used for quantitative analyses using Senegal’s Demographic and Health Surveys. Qualitative analyses included a systematic literature review, program/policy analysis, and interviews with key stakeholders. A final Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition analysis (OBDA) evaluated the relative contribution of direct and indirect factors. ResultsAmong non-pregnant women (NPW), mean hemoglobin (Hb) increased from 11.4 g/dL in 2005 to 11.7 g/dL in 2017 (p<0.0001), corresponding to a 5%-point decline in anemia prevalence (58% to 53%). However, inequities by geographical region, household wealth, women’s educational attainment, urban compared to rural residence, and antenatal care (ANC) during last pregnancy continue to persist. During this time period, several indirect nutrition programs were implemented, with stakeholders acknowledging the importance of these programs, but agreeing there needs to be more consistency, evaluation, and oversight for them to be effective. Our OBDA explained 59% of the observed change in mean Hb, with family planning (25%), malaria prevention programs (17%), use of iron and folic acid (IFA) during last pregnancy (17%), and improvement in women’s empowerment (12%) emerging as drivers of anemia decline, corroborating our qualitative and policy analyses. ConclusionsDespite a reduction in anemia prevalence, anemia remains a severe public health problem in Senegal. To protect the gains achieved to date, as well as accelerate reduction in WRA anemia burden, focused efforts to reduce gender and social disparities, and improve coverage of health services, such as family planning, IFA, and antimalarial programs, are needed.

TEMPORARY REMOVAL: Drivers of Anemia Reduction among Women of Reproductive Age in the Philippines: A Country Case Study

BackgroundAnemia prevalence among women of reproductive age (WRA) in the Philippines was 25% in 2000, decreasing to 13% in 2018. To date, an in-depth assessment of the determinants associated with this decline has not been conducted. ObjectiveTo conduct a systematic in-depth assessment of the quantitative and qualitative determinants of anemia among WRA in the Philippines between 2008 and 2018. MethodsEmploying standard Exemplars methodology, we conducted quantitative analyses using the Philippines’ National Nutrition Survey, the Expanded National Nutrition Survey, and the Philippines National Demographic and Health Surveys. Qualitative analyses included a comprehnsive literature review, program/policy analysis, and interviews with stakeholders to understand country-level enablers and barriers to WRA anemia decline in the Philippines. A final Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition analysis (OBDA) evaluated the relative contribution of direct and indirect factors. ResultsAmong non-pregnant women (NPW), mean hemoglobin (Hb) increased from 12.7 g/dL in 2008 to 13.1 g/dL in 2018 (p<0.01), corresponding to an 11%-point decline in anemia prevalence (23% to 12%). Inequities by geographical region, household wealth, and women’s educational attainment narrowed considerably during this time. Important direct and indirect nutrition programs were introduced during our study period, including universal healthcare and food fortification. Country experts interviewed credited programs focused on alleviating micronutrient deficiencies and poverty, and improvements in women’s health and well-being, for the country's extraordinary success. OBDA explained ∼50% of the observed change in mean Hb among NPW, with family planning (35%), household socio-demographics (29%), and improvement in women’s nutrition (23%) emerging as critical drivers of anemia decline, corroborating our qualitative and policy analyses. ConclusionsTo protect these gains, WRA anemia prevention efforts in the Philippines should continue to focus on universal healthcare access, women’s empowerment, and poverty alleviation.

OBSERVATIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS THE EFFICACY OF POST-OPERATIVE PAIN MANAGEMENT IN CASES OF CAESAREAN SECTION

Context:The incidence of cesarean deliveries is on the rise now-a-days. Post-operative pain is a major problem and if untreated, can lead to chronic pain. Aims: To observe the effectiveness of the obstetrician led post-operative analgesia regime in patients operated for caesarean section. Settings and Design:The observational study was conducted at a rural based tertiary care centre, designed to include all the patients who fulfilled the selection criteria for caesarean section. Methods and Material:After approval from institutional ethics committee and patients informed consent, the multimodal analgesic regime was evaluated on Visual analogue scale (VAS) at rest for 24 hours. A questionnaire was also taken as feedback from the patients at end of 24hrs for qualitative assessment. Statistical analysis used: Descriptive analysis of the data collected was done. Results: 91.5% patients had VAS score &lt; four while 8.5% patients had VAS score &gt; four. The percentage of patients who were fully satisfied, partially satisfied, not at all satisfied and in severe pain was 18%, 68%, 13.5% and 0.5% respectively. The newborn care was not at all affected in 17.5%, somewhat affected in 76.5% and to a great extent in 6% patients. In 89% patients, sleep was not affected while in 11% it was affected. Majority of patients (99%) did not mind bearing mild pain in order to prevent side effects of drugs. Conclusions: Overall, the obstetrician led postoperative analgesic protocol followed was satisfactory. Discrepancy between patient satisfaction by VAS score assessment and patient perception by qualitative assessment suggests requirement of in-depth qualitative assessment for better pain control.

Management of the olive decline disease complex caused by Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca and Neofusicoccum spp. in Apulia, Italy

Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca (Xfp) is associated with olive quick decline syndrome (OQDS), a severe disease affecting the olive groves of Salento (Apulia, Italy). Through a series of interdisciplinary studies, an effective management strategy aimed at maintaining the traditional olive germplasm has been developed and evaluated. Specifically, a systemic biocomplex formulation containing zinc (4%), copper (2%) and citric acid, is sprayed on the tree canopy once per month from spring to early autumn. The strategy also includes sustainable vector control through agronomical techniques as well as regular tree pruning and soil fertilization. Quantitative real-time PCR assessments performed in a mid- and long-term studies showed a significant reduction in the Xfp concentration in the leaf xylem tissue upon treatment, improving olive tree yield. Both 1H-NMR metabolomic and mass spectrometric lipidomic analyses of leaf extracts revealed the occurrence of biomarkers linked to disease or tree restoration. The effects of mannitol and oleuropein derivatives, 13-oxylipins/DOX-oxylipins and 9-oxylipins appear to be related to the attenuation of disease symptoms. Both techniques indicate rapid reprogramming of metabolic tree activity upon spray treatment to regain tree health. Multiscale satellite imagery monitoring through high-resolution Sentinel-2, very high-resolution Pleiades and vegetation indices confirmed the robustness of the strategy over several years in both experimental and productive olive groves. Currently, this strategy is applied in many infected olive groves in Salento. Notably, some aggressive fungal species belonging to the Neofusicoccum genus have been recently found to be associated with olive trees that show symptoms similar to those induced by Xfp. Coinfections between this bacterium and fungi have also been frequently observed, suggesting the need for a more in-depth assessment of the epidemiology and management of OQDS.

The Quality of public service in re-verification at the Department of Industry and Trade of Gunung Mas District

Tera and Re-Tera Services are under the responsibility of the Metrological Division, especially the Tera and Re-Tera Service Section at the Gunung Mas Regency Industry and Trade Office. This study aims to find out how the Quality of Public Services is Re-Labeled by the Gunung Mas Regency Industry and Trade Office. Based on the results of observations, interviews and documentation in this study, it shows that the Quality of Public Services in the Re-Tera by the Gunung Mas Regency Industry and Trade Office can be concluded as follows: 1. The Re-Tera service carried out by the Gunung Mas Regency Industry and Trade Office has basically been carried out in accordance with public service standards which are in line with the regulations of the Minister of Apparatus Empowerment State No. 63/KEP/M.PAN/7/2003 concerning General Guidelines for the Implementation of Services. 2. The availability of human resources to provide services in the implementation of certified services and have special expertise in the field of Tera-Tera Re-Tera is only 1 (one) employee. 3. There are no basic technical rules for services in the form of Regional Regulations and Regulations of the Gunung Mas Regency Industry and Trade Office. The suggestions in this study are: 1. It is necessary to conduct a more in-depth assessment of the analysis of employee needs, especially Penera. 2. In addition, it is also necessary to make specific rules related to the Re-Tera Tera Service.

Effect of Various Fertilization Methods on the Growth of Brassicaceae

Abstract: When soil is used for agricultural purposes, plants absorb multiple nutrients from the soil such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, etc. Overtime, the nutrients present in the soil start decreasing. This process is known as soil depletion and it can effect the growth of plants. Fertilizers are then added to soil in adequate amount to replenish the depleted nutrients. Fertilizers can be organic or inorganic. The usage of inorganic fertilizers has increased overtime and this can create many issues. This review evaluates the efficacy of different fertilization methods on the growth, yield, and health of Brassicaceae crops. It aims to provide an in-depth assessment of impact of fertilizers through recent studies and hopes to provide a holistic view of sustainable agricultural practices.

Adipocyte-specific inactivation of NAMPT, a key NAD+ biosynthetic enzyme, causes a metabolically unhealthy lean phenotype in female mice during aging.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a universal coenzyme regulating cellular energy metabolism in many cell types. Recent studies have demonstrated the close relationships between defective NAD+ metabolism and aging and age-associated metabolic diseases. The major purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that NAD+ biosynthesis, mediated by a rate-limiting NAD+ biosynthetic enzyme, nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), is essential for maintaining normal adipose tissue function and whole body metabolic health during the aging process. To this end, we provided in-depth and comprehensive metabolic assessments for female adipocyte-specific Nampt knockout (ANKO) mice during aging. We first evaluated body fat mass in young (≤4-mo-old), middle aged (10-14-mo-old), and old (≥18-mo-old) mice. Intriguingly, adipocyte-specific Nampt deletion protected against age-induced obesity without changing energy balance. However, data obtained from the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp procedure (HECP) demonstrated that, despite the lean phenotype, old ANKO mice had severe insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, heart, and white adipose tissue (WAT). Old ANKO mice also exhibited hyperinsulinemia and hypoadiponectinemia. Mechanistically, loss of Nampt caused marked decreases in WAT gene expression of lipogenic targets of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) in an age-dependent manner. In addition, administration of a PPAR-γ agonist rosiglitazone restored fat mass and improved metabolic abnormalities in old ANKO mice. In conclusion, these findings highlight the importance of the NAMPT-NAD+-PPAR-γ axis in maintaining functional integrity and quantity of adipose tissue, and whole body metabolic function in female mice during aging.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Defective NAD+ metabolism is associated with aging and age-associated metabolic diseases. In the present study, we provided in-depth metabolic assessments in female mice with adipocyte-specific inactivation of a key NAD+ biosynthetic enzyme NAMPT and revealed an unexpected role of adipose tissue NAMPT-NAD+-PPAR-γ axis in maintaining functional integrity and quantity of adipose tissue and whole body metabolic health during the aging process.