bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Binjai (Mangifera caesia) leaf extract nanoemulsion as antibacterial Escherichia coli
Authors: Roanisca O , Mahardika R G
Published: November 2022

Indonesia is a tropical country with a high level of infectious disease.. One of the bacteria that often infects and causes diarrhea is Escherichia coli. E. coli infection can cause food poisoning and indigestion. Infectious diseases caused by bacteria can be treated by taking antibiotics. However, excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to bacterial resistance.Binjai (Mangifera caesia) containing components of polyphenolic compounds such as mangiferin, catechins and epicatechins with bioactivity as antibacterial. The potency of the plant extract needs to be increased as a natural antibacterial to facilitate its absorption with nanoemulsion formulation. Research methods include the manufacture of extracts with ethanol solvent maceration method. Next will be nanoemulsion formulation, measurement of nanoemulsion size by PSA analysis, and determination of antibacterial in vitro. Binjai leaf (Mangifera caesia) extract nanoemulsion formulation obtained stable nanoemulsion. The droplet size obtained is below 200 nm. Inhibition of nanoemulsion on growth of E. coli, it was found that the inhibitory power of nanoemulsion was still less than the inhibitory power of binjai leaf extract. This is because in the nanoemulsion the concentration of the extract is only 5 m and 25 mg.
The effect of impregnation ratio on the characteristics of activated carbon made from rubber fruit shells with KOH as the activation medium
Authors: Suhdi  , Rodiawan  , Wang S C
Published: November 2022

The rubber fruit shell (RFS) activated carbon has been made using KOH as a chemical activating agent with several variations of the impregnation ratio (1:3, 1:4, and 1:5). To ascertain the impact of the impregnation ratio on the attributes of the produced activated carbon, analysis was carried out using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method, X-ray diffraction, and a field emission scanning electron microscope. In the impregnation ratio, 1:5 was carried out as the best result; the value for BET surface area and nitrogen adsorption isotherms were 160 m2/g and 62 cm3/g, where the average pore size diameter was 4.6 nm. Besides, this activated carbon also has around 78.40% carbon. According to the findings of this investigation, the impregnation ratio affects the performance of using KOH as an activator to produce activated carbon from rubber fruit shells. In addition, it could be indicated that the RFS has the potential to be an alternative source of relatively inexpensive activated carbon because the raw materials are available in large quantities.
Effect of H2O2 concentration as electron Acceptor on bioregeneration of activated carbon contaminated with a benzene-toluene mixture
Authors: Novia Clara , Sitorus Benget P , Safitra Edwin Rizki , Curie Catia Angli , Wulan Praswasti PDK , Gozan Misri
Published: November 2022

Granular Activated carbon (AC) is commonly used for cleaning water contaminated with Benzene and toluene (BT). Regeneration is needed to extend the lifetime of GAC. This study examines the effect of H2O2 concentration as an electron acceptor for GAC bioregeneration by the consortium of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Aeromonas hydrophila, Bacillus coagulants, and Bacillus substilis in a fixed-bed bioreactor. Enrichment was carried out for adaptation to benzene and toluene. The enriched consortium was injected into a bioreactor column containing GAC saturated with benzene and toluene. The H2O2 concentration was varied 10 mg/l, 30 mg/l, 40 mg/l, and 50 mg/l. The contaminant mixture was continuously added with Lockhead and Chase (LC) and H2O2 at a flow rate of 18.2 ml/minute and 1 ml/minute, respectively. The outlet sample was analyzed using a Gas Chromatograph-Flame Ionization Detector (GC FID). The consortium regenerated the GAC by biodegradation of adsorbed benzene toluene. Initial inoculation of enrichment was 3.5 x 105 CFU/ml. The final stationary phase was at 120 hours with 1.37 x 1011 CFU/ml. The optimum biodegradation process was at a concentration of 30 mg/l H2O2 with a concentration of benzene and toluene outlet column II of 25 ppm and 40.5 ppm, respectively.
Utilization of Kulong Krasak to maintain water availability in a sustainable manner
Authors: Adriyansyah  , Saprizal
Published: November 2022

Kulong formed from tin mining activities has the potential as a source of water. Kulong in Beluluk Village, Pangkalan Baru District, which can be used as a water source is Kulong Krasak. The use of the kulong as a water source is not only seen from the ability of the kulong to meet the water needs of the community but also must maintain its sustainability. The reliability analysis of the kulong is a way to find out the amount of water release that is allowed so that the sustainability of the kulong is maintained. To determine the availability of Kulong Krasak water for the next 16 years, a prediction of water availability is made, namely from 2022 to 2037. From the results of the analysis, it was found that the water demand in Beluluk Village in 2037 was 7.86 l/s. The maximum water availability occurs in April, which is 20.43 l/s and the minimum occurs in September, which is 6.57 l/s. The results of the standard operating rule analysis show that Kulong Krasak has 100% reliability if the release target is 5.61 l/s of the total water demand, which is 7.86 l/s.
The effectiveness of Nipah fiber biofilter against tofu liquid waste in reducing COD, BOD and TSS Levels
Authors: Pratiwi D W P , Adisyahputra  , Roanisca O
Published: November 2022

The tofu industry during the processing produces waste in both in liquid and solid forms. Solid waste is usually used as animal feed, fertilizer, tempe or crackers. Liquid waste is used as nata de soya, paper, bioplastics, biogas, electrical energy and organic fertilizers. Small-scale tofu industry rarely utilizes tofu liquid waste and some do not carry out processing. Tofu waste contains organic substances and high suspended solids that can pollute the environment. Therefore, there is a need for waste treatment using an aerobic biofilter. The operating Hydraulic retention time was 5, 10 and 15 hours, the filter height was 135 cm and the nipah fiber height was 50 cm. The results of the biofilm attached to the biofilter reactor and palm fiber were successfully formed a brownish red biofilm which is a colony of microorganisms. The optimum time of tofu liquid waste showed a residence time of 15 hours, so that tofu liquid waste meets the quality standards based on the Regulation of the Minister of the Environment of the Republic of Indonesian No.5 of 2014. The effectiveness of the biofilter reactor in reducing COD is 94.24%, BOD is 95.14% and TSS is 68%.
Identification of biopsychological trait markers in functional neurological disorders
Authors: Weber Samantha , Bühler Janine , Vanini Giorgio , Loukas Serafeim , Bruckmaier Rupert , Aybek Selma
Published: November 2022

Stress is a well-known risk factor to develop a functional neurological disorder, a frequent neuropsychiatric medical condition in which patients experience a variety of disabling neurological symptoms. Only little is known about biological stress regulation, and how it interacts with predisposing biological and psychosocial risk factors. Dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in patients with functional neurological disorders has been postulated, but its relationship to preceding psychological trauma and brain anatomical changes remains to be elucidated. We set out to study the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis analysing the cortisol awakening response and diurnal baseline cortisol in 86 patients with mixed functional neurological symptoms compared to 76 healthy controls. We then examined the association between cortisol regulation and the severity and duration of traumatic life events. Finally, we analysed volumetric brain alterations in brain regions particularly sensitive to psychosocial stress, acting on the assumption of the neurotoxic effect of prolonged cortisol exposure.

Overall, patients had a significantly flatter cortisol awakening response (P < 0.001) and reported longer (P = 0.01) and more severe (P < 0.001) emotional neglect as compared to healthy controls. Moreover, volumes of the bilateral amygdala and hippocampus were found to be reduced in patients. Using a partial least squares correlation, we found that in patients, emotional neglect plays a role in the multivariate pattern between trauma history and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis dysfunction, while cortisol did not relate to reduced brain volumes. This suggests that psychological stress acts as a precipitating psychosocial risk factor, whereas a reduced brain volume rather represents a biological predisposing trait marker for the disorder. Contrarily, an inverse relationship between brain volume and cortisol was found in healthy controls, representing a potential neurotoxic effect of cortisol. These findings support the theory of reduced subcortical volumes representing a predisposing trait factor in functional neurological disorders, rather than a state effect of the illness. In summary, this study supports a stress–diathesis model for functional neurological disorders and showed an association between different attributes of trauma history and abnormalities in hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal axis function. Moreover, we suggest that reduced hippocampal and amygdalar volumes represent a biological ‘trait marker’ for functional neurological disorder patients, which might contribute to a reduced resilience to stress.
Rectal Culture-Based Versus Empirical Antibiotic Prophylaxis to Prevent Infectious Complications in Men Undergoing Transrectal Prostate Biopsy: A Randomized, Nonblinded Multicenter Trial
Authors: Tops Sofie C M , Kolwijck Eva , Koldewijn Evert L , Somford Diederik M , Delaere Filip J M , van Leeuwen Menno A , Breeuwsma Anthonius J , de Vocht Thijn F , Broos Hans J H P , Schipper Rob A , Steffens Martijn G , Teerenstra Steven , Wegdam-Blans Marjolijn C A , de Brauwer Els , van den Bijllaardt Wouter , Leenders Alexander C A P , Sedelaar J P Michiel , Wertheim Heiman F L
Published: November 2022

Background

An increase in infections after transrectal prostate biopsy (PB), related to an increasing number of patients with ciprofloxacin-resistant rectal flora, necessitates the exploration of alternatives for the traditionally used empirical prophylaxis of ciprofloxacin. We compared infectious complication rates after transrectal PB using empirical ciprofloxacin prophylaxis versus culture-based prophylaxis.

Methods

In this nonblinded, randomized trial, between 4 April 2018 and 30 July 2021, we enrolled 1538 patients from 11 Dutch hospitals undergoing transrectal PB. After rectal swab collection, patients were randomized 1:1 to receive empirical prophylaxis with oral ciprofloxacin (control group [CG]) or culture-based prophylaxis (intervention group [IG]). Primary outcome was any infectious complication within 7 days after biopsy. Secondary outcomes were infectious complications within 30 days, and bacteremia and bacteriuria within 7 and 30 days postbiopsy. For primary outcome analysis, the χ2 test stratified for hospitals was used. Trial registration number: NCT03228108.

Results

Data from 1288 patients (83.7%) were available for analysis (CG, 652; IG, 636). Infection rates within 7 days postbiopsy were 4.3% (n = 28) (CG) and 2.5% (n = 16) (IG) (P value = .08; reduction: −1.8%; 95% confidence interval, −.004 to .040). Ciprofloxacin-resistant bacteria were detected in 15.2% (n = 1288). In the CG, the presence of ciprofloxacin-resistant rectal flora resulted in a 6.2-fold higher risk of early postbiopsy infection.

Conclusions

Our study supports the use of culture-based prophylaxis to reduce infectious complications after transrectal PB. Despite adequate prophylaxis, postbiopsy infections can still occur. Therefore, culture-based prophylaxis must be weighed against other strategies that could reduce postbiopsy infections.

Clinical Trials Registration. NCT03228108.
Industrial policy and the creation of the electric vehicles market in China: demand structure, sectoral complementarities and policy coordination
Authors: Gomes Alexandre De Podestá , Pauls Robert , ten Brink Tobias
Published: November 2022

Since the late 2000s, the Chinese government has been adopting active industrial policies to create a market for electric vehicles. While celebrated as a success nationally and internationally, a closer look reveals a mixed picture with market growth concentrated in only a few cities. On the basis of heterodox industrial policy literature, Chinese-language policy documents and interviews, we develop an analytical framework to empirically study electric vehicles deployment at the city-level, and to assess the achievements and obstacles of implementing industrial policies in this sector. We particularly stress the interrelatedness of policies governing the demand structure of the electric vehicles market and its main complementary sector, the charging infrastructure, which need to be aligned in the progressively more complex segments making up the electric vehicles market. Taking this industry as a case study, we contribute to the wider debate on the determinants of industrial policy effectiveness.
Resources and Attitudes Influence Acculturation of Deaf Children with Cochlear Implants
Authors: McMenamin Katie E , Welch David , Purdy Suzanne C
Published: November 2022

Early detection of hearing loss leads to early intervention-related decisions. Most children with cochlear implants (CIs) are born to hearing parents. Prior evidence suggests that this increased access to oral communication and the “hearing” world means oral communication is prioritized by hearing parents. Language plays a key role within culture and these communication decisions are likely to be associated with children’s level of d/Deaf acculturation. This study was based on qualitative interviews. Thirty-two people associated with 14 children were interviewed; these were parents of children with CIs, four children over age 11 years, and teachers of 13 of the children. The study aimed to investigate parental communication decisions on child/family d/Deaf acculturation and the role of access to resources on children’s d/Deaf acculturation development. Findings indicate two profiles of family acculturation—oral and bicultural and point to a possible relationship between access to resources and parents’ decision-making process.
Do refugee children impair the academic performance of native children in the school? Informative null results from Danish Register Data
Authors: Hassan Said , Hvidtfeldt Camilla , Andersen Lars Højsgaard , Udsen Rebecca Overgaard
Published: November 2022

Discussions concerning the social impact of accepting refugee immigrants arise each time large numbers of refugees apply for protection in rich countries. However, little evidence exists on how the integration of refugees into core welfare institutions affects native citizens who depend on and interact with these institutions. In this paper, we focus on whether receiving refugees in a school cohort affects the academic performance of natives, using administrative data from Denmark, which contain test scores on all children in public schools. We exploit variation in the timing of refugees’ entrance to schools to facilitate causal estimates. Our findings show that refugees tend to cluster in schools that had poorer performance even prior to the refugees’ arrival. When we take this selection pattern into account, the effect of receiving refugees on the academic performance trajectory of natives is both statistically insignificant and substantially unimportant.
Impact of cryoballoon application abortion due to phrenic nerve injury on reconnection rates: a YETI subgroup analysis
Authors: Heeger Christian-H , Popescu Sorin Ștefan , Sohns Christian , Pott Alexander , Metzner Andreas , Inaba Osamu , Straube Florian , Kuniss Malte , Aryana Arash , Miyazaki Shinsuke , Cay Serkan , Ehrlich Joachim R , El-Battrawy Ibrahim , Martinek Martin , Saguner Ardan M , Tscholl Verena , Yalin Kivanc , Lyan Evgeny , Su Wilber , Papiashvili Giorgi , Botros Maichel Sobhy Naguib , Gasperetti Alessio , Proietti Riccardo , Wissner Erik , Scherr Daniel , Kamioka Masashi , Makimoto Hisaki , Urushida Tsuyoshi , Aksu Tolga , Chun Julian K R , Aytemir Kudret , Jędrzejczyk-Patej Ewa , Kuck Karl-Heinz , Dahme Tillman , Steven Daniel , Sommer Philipp , Tilz Roland Richard
Published: November 2022

Aims

Cryoballoon (CB)-based pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an effective treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). The most frequent complication during CB-based PVI is right-sided phrenic nerve injury (PNI) which is leading to premature abortion of the freeze cycle. Here, we analysed reconnection rates after CB-based PVI and PNI in a large-scale population during repeat procedures.

Methods and results

In the YETI registry, a total of 17 356 patients underwent CB-based PVI in 33 centres, and 731 (4.2%) patients experienced PNI. A total of 111/731 (15.2%) patients received a repeat procedure for treatment of recurrent AF. In 94/111 (84.7%) patients data on repeat procedures were available. A total of 89/94 (94.7%) index pulmonary veins (PVs) have been isolated during the initial PVI. During repeat procedures, 22 (24.7%) of initially isolated index PVs showed reconnection. The use of a double stop technique did non influence the PV reconnection rate (P = 0.464). The time to PNI was 140.5 ± 45.1 s in patients with persistent PVI and 133.5 ± 53.8 s in patients with reconnection (P = 0.559). No differences were noted between the two populations in terms of CB temperature at the time of PNI (P = 0.362). The only parameter associated with isolation durability was CB temperature after 30 s of freezing. The PV reconnection did not influence the time to AF recurrence.

Conclusion

In patients with cryoballon application abortion due to PNI, a high rate of persistent PVI rate was found at repeat procedures. Our data may help to identify the optimal dosing protocol in CB-based PVI procedures.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03645577?term=YETI&cntry=DE&draw=2&rank=1 ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03645577.
Validation of a dietary advice protocol for adults with obesity in primary health care according to the Brazilian Dietary Guidelines
Authors: Rodrigues Lorrany S , Pizato Nathalia , Carvalho Kenia M B , Dutra Eliane S , Botelho Patrícia B , Andrade Laila S , Moraes Verena D , Gonçalves Vivian S S
Published: November 2022

Background

Obesity is a non-communicable chronic disease which carries a high cost for the Brazilian Unified Health System. Standardized protocols can help primary health care (PHC) professionals manage the disease.

Objectives

To describe the validation process of a protocol concerning dietary guidelines for adults with obesity in PHC by non-nutrition professionals.

Methods

A validation study of a dietary advice protocol consisting of 6 recommendations was conducted according to Brazilian Dietary Guidelines. The topics incorporated into the recommendations were submitted to a panel of judges for content validity and achieved a Scale Content Validity Index (S-CVI) score >0.80. Subsequently, an online workshop was held and consisted of guiding questions to adequately improve current protocols. Face validity was assessed in a mediation workshop conducted with PHC non-nutrition professionals. Following the validation process, necessary adjustments were made to the eating protocol.

Results

The validation process was conducted by a panel of 20 judges and 10 PHC professionals. The content was validated using a 0.98 S-CVI. The online workshop expert panel agreed the instrument provides a trustworthy foundation for appropriate dietary guidelines. Moreover, the judges suggested changes to the flowchart designed to support the professionals’ decisions, discussed the absence of quantitative prescription guidelines, and offered additional suggestions to strengthen equity and encourage autonomy in non-nutrition healthcare professionals in PHC.

Conclusion

This study describes the validation process of a dietary advice protocol for people with obesity, as well as the importance of its integration into PHC.
The weak convergence order of two Euler-type discretization schemes for the log-Heston model
Authors: Mickel Annalena , Neuenkirch Andreas
Published: November 2022

We study the weak convergence order of two Euler-type discretizations of the log-Heston model where we use symmetrization and absorption, respectively, to prevent the discretization of the underlying CIR process from becoming negative. If the Feller index $\nu $ of the CIR process satisfies $\nu>1$, we establish weak convergence order $ 1 $, while for $\nu \leq 1$, we obtain weak convergence order $\nu -\epsilon $ for $\epsilon>0$ arbitrarily small. We illustrate our theoretical findings by several numerical examples.
Impact of Vaccination, Prior Infection, and Therapy on Omicron Infection and Mortality
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Zein Joe , Ji Xinge , Lin Dan-Yu
Published: November 2022

Background

Understanding immunity against Omicron infection and severe outcomes conferred by coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccination, prior severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, and monoclonal antibody therapy will inform intervention strategies.

Methods

We considered 295 691 patients tested for SARS-CoV-2 at Cleveland Clinic between 1 October 2021 and 31 January 2022. We used logistic regression to investigate the association of vaccination and prior infection with the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and used Cox regression to investigate the association of vaccination, prior infection, and monoclonal antibody therapy with the risks of intensive care unit (ICU) stay and death.

Results

Vaccination and prior infection were less effective against Omicron than Delta infection but provided strong protection against ICU admission and death. Boosting greatly increased vaccine effectiveness against Omicron infection and severe outcomes, although effectiveness waned rapidly over time. Monoclonal antibody therapy considerably reduced risks of ICU admission and death. The relatively low mortality of the Omicron variant was due to both reduced lethality of this variant and increased population immunity acquired from booster vaccination and previous infection.

Conclusions

Booster vaccination and prior SARS-CoV-2 infection provide strong protection against ICU admission and death from Omicron infection. Monoclonal antibody therapy is also beneficial.
Litigating in a jurisdiction that does not recognize the concept of disclosure—The German Federal Supreme Court clarifies the rules on document production
Authors: Gärtner Anette , Plagge Michael
Published: November 2022

In a recent decision relating to a European patent application (and resulting patent) filed by a non-entitled person, the BGH emphasized that judges shall apply the rules on document production such that the interests of both parties are fairly weighed.
Family law professionals’ views of post-separation parenting apps
Authors: Payne Jason L , Smyth Bruce M , Irving Michelle , Heard Genevieve , Althor Glenn
Published: November 2022

The rapid proliferation of smartphones has led to a bewildering array of post-separation parenting apps, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. These apps usually comprise a messaging tool, shared calendar, expense tracker, and a means to download messages and documents for courts. In Australia, as elsewhere, family law professionals are increasingly being asked about, or asked to recommend, smartphone apps to clients. There is also an emerging trend for courts to mandate the use of post-separation parenting apps in high conflict cases. The present study sought to explore the views and experiences of family law professionals on post-separation parenting smartphone apps (N = 344). Data were collected in Australia and New Zealand through an online survey, distributed to a diverse population of family law professionals. We found that (i) family law professionals generally reported little knowledge of co-parenting apps; (ii) around one third of family law professionals reported that their clients had experienced, or concerns about, coercive control through an app; (iii) around two thirds of family law professionals who had recommended an app had not tried it; and yet (iv) three quarters reported recommending apps to clients. Our central argument is that family law professionals and separated parents alike need a comprehensive and more nuanced understanding of the benefits and risks of post-separation parenting apps and their features.
Exploring the K isotope composition of Göttingen minipig brain regions, and implications for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Mahan Brandon , Tacail Theo , Lewis Jamie , Elliott Tim , Habekost Mette , Turner Simon , Chung Roger , Moynier Frédéric
Published: November 2022

Natural stable metal isotopes have shown utility in differentiation between healthy and diseased brain states (e.g. Alzheimer's disease, AD). While the AD brain accumulates some metals, it purges others, namely K (accompanied by increased serum K, suggesting brain–blood transferal). Here, K isotope compositions of Göttingen minipig brain regions for two AD models at midlife are reported. Results indicate heavy K isotope enrichment where amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation is observed, and this enrichment correlates with relative K depletion. These results suggest preferential efflux of isotopically light K+ from the brain, a linkage between brain K concentrations and isotope compositions, and linkage to Aβ (previously shown to purge cellular brain K+). Brain K isotope compositions differ from that for serum and brain K is much more abundant than in serum, suggesting that changes in brain K may transfer a measurable K isotope excursion to serum, thereby generating an early AD biomarker.
Occurrence and stability of anion–π interactions between phosphate and nucleobases in functional RNA molecules
Authors: Chawla Mohit , Kalra Kanav , Cao Zhen , Cavallo Luigi , Oliva Romina
Published: November 2022

We present a systematic structural and energetic characterization of phosphate(OP)–nucleobase anion…π stacking interactions in RNAs. We observed OP–nucleobase stacking contacts in a variety of structural motifs other than regular helices and spanning broadly diverse sequence distances. Apart from the stacking between a phosphate and a guanine or a uracil two-residue upstream in specific U-turns, such interactions in RNA have been scarcely characterized to date. Our QM calculations showed an energy minimum at a distance between the OP atom and the nucleobase plane centroid slightly below 3 Å for all the nucleobases. By sliding the OP atom over the nucleobase plane we localized the optimal mutual positioning of the stacked moieties, corresponding to an energy minimum below -6 kcal•mol−1, for all the nucleobases, consistently with the projections of the OP atoms over the different π-rings we observed in experimental occurrences. We also found that the strength of the interaction clearly correlates with its electrostatic component, pointing to it as the most relevant contribution. Finally, as OP–uracil and OP–guanine interactions represent together 86% of the instances we detected, we also proved their stability under dynamic conditions in model systems simulated by state-of-the art DFT-MD calculations.
An RNAi screen of RNA helicases identifies eIF4A3 as a regulator of embryonic stem cell identity
Authors: Li Dan , Yang Jihong , Malik Vikas , Huang Yuting , Huang Xin , Zhou Hongwei , Wang Jianlong
Published: November 2022

RNA helicases are involved in multiple steps of RNA metabolism to direct their roles in gene expression, yet their functions in pluripotency control remain largely unexplored. Starting from an RNA interference (RNAi) screen of RNA helicases, we identified that eIF4A3, a DEAD-box (Ddx) helicase component of the exon junction complex (EJC), is essential for the maintenance of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Mechanistically, we show that eIF4A3 post-transcriptionally controls the pluripotency-related cell cycle regulators and that its depletion causes the loss of pluripotency via cell cycle dysregulation. Specifically, eIF4A3 is required for the efficient nuclear export of Ccnb1 mRNA, which encodes Cyclin B1, a key component of the pluripotency-promoting pathway during the cell cycle progression of ESCs. Our results reveal a previously unappreciated role for eIF4A3 and its associated EJC in maintaining stem cell pluripotency through post-transcriptional control of the cell cycle.
Effects of bargaining legislation on worker and management reconciliation decisions—a bivariate duration analysis
Authors: Reza Sadat , Rilstone Paul
Published: November 2022

We examine bargaining legislation effects on the union and management reconciliation decisions following announcement of a strike using a bivariate duration model. The durations associated with the two groups are latent, and we argue that under weak assumptions the key parameters are identified. Simulation studies show that the latent parameters are reliably estimable in finite samples. We use a large Canadian dataset to estimate effects of several policies on the strike continuation probabilities of workers and management. Our results suggest that several of these policies affect workers’ decision to continue stoppage or not. On the other hand, management reconciliation decision is largely unaffected by most of these policies. Our study also reveals interesting behavioural differences among management and workers depending on jurisdiction, sector, and firm characteristics.
Integrating dynamics into enzyme engineering
Authors: Lemay-St-Denis Claudèle , Doucet Nicolas , Pelletier Joelle N
Published: November 2022

Enzyme engineering has become a widely adopted practice in research labs and industry. In parallel, the past decades have seen tremendous strides in characterizing the dynamics of proteins, using a growing array of methodologies. Importantly, links have been established between the dynamics of proteins and their function. Characterizing the dynamics of an enzyme prior to, and following, its engineering is beginning to inform on the potential of ‘dynamic engineering’, i.e. the rational modification of protein dynamics to alter enzyme function. Here we examine the state of knowledge at the intersection of enzyme engineering and protein dynamics, describe current challenges and highlight pioneering work in the nascent area of dynamic engineering.
The impacts of the Syrian conflict on child and adolescent health: a scoping review
Authors: Kampalath Vinay , Tarakji Ahmad , Hamze Mohamed , Loutfi Randa , Cohn Keri , Abbara Aula
Published: November 2022

Background

The Syrian conflict has had a profound impact on Syrian children and adolescents. We sought to determine the extent and range of literature on the conflict’s health effects on this vulnerable population.

Methods

A scoping review describing the impact of the Syrian conflict on children was undertaken while utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses—Extension for Scoping Reviews methodology. Qualitative thematic analyses were undertaken to both identify patterns of morbidity and mortality and gaps in evidence.

Results

A total of 982 articles meeting search criteria were identified between 1 January 2011 and 30 April 2021. After iterative screening, 12 were identified from academic databases and 4 were identified from grey literature and hand searching, yielding a total of 16 studies for final, full-text analysis. Four distinct themes recurred in the literature; these include children suffering from violent injury, a resurgence of communicable diseases, malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency and impacts on their mental health.

Conclusions

The health of children and adolescents in Syria has been significantly impacted by the indiscriminate attacks against civilians, flagrant human rights violations and the disintegration of the national health care system. Neonates were largely absent from the literature. The themes from this scoping review can inform health programming priorities by aid organizations.
Neurological Emergencies in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Ogbebor Osakpolor , Tariq Shahzaib , Jaber Tariq , Super Jamie , Bhanot Nitin , Rana Sandeep , Malik Khalid
Published: November 2022

Neurological emergencies carry significant morbidity and mortality, and it is necessary to have a multidisciplinary approach involving the emergency physician, the neurologist, the intensivist, and the critical care nursing staff. These disorders can be broadly divided into noninfectious and infectious etiologies. In this article, we review a few of the neurological emergencies that present to the neurological intensive unit, with emphasis on convulsive status epileptics, myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, meningitis, encephalitis, and brain abscess.
Hematologic and Oncologic Emergencies
Authors: Holden Kyle , Rao Sheldon , White Richard , Bangash Salman , Madgula Anantha Sriharsha , Schmetzer Amy , Sangli Swathi , Ivanova Valentyna , Balaan Marvin
Published: November 2022

This article reviews both hematologic and oncologic emergencies that may be seen in the intensive care setting. Hematologic emergencies, including autoimmune hemolytic anemia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic uremic syndrome, and disseminated intravascular coagulation, as well as oncologic emergencies including tumor lysis syndrome, superior vena cava syndrome, and cardiac tamponade secondary to metastatic disease, are discussed in detail. This review focuses on the pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of each entity.
The Coaching Fidelity Scale (CFS)
Authors: Meadan Hedda , Lee James D. , Sands Michelle M. , Chung Moon Y. , García-Grau Pau
Published: November 2022

Effective support for children with developmental disabilities or delays is dependent on the successful collaboration between families and professionals and among professionals. For years, researchers and professionals have been coaching caregivers and other professionals to implement evidence-based practices with children with disabilities. However, a gap in the relevant literature suggests that a valid, reliable, and observation-based measurement tool is needed to accurately assess coaching across different disciplines, contents, and contexts. The Coaching Fidelity Scale (CFS) was designed to evaluate the extent to which professionals implement a set of coaching practices with fidelity. The purpose of this exploratory study was to introduce the CFS as an observational tool for coaching fidelity and to pilot its psychometrics. On the basis of the analyses, the CFS produced valid and reliable measures of coaching fidelity of different professionals who provide services to families and children with disabilities.
A Survey of Perceptions of Consulting in Inclusive Preschool Classrooms
Authors: Forsythe Natalie , Larson Anne L.
Published: November 2022

This study examined consultants' and consultees' perspectives of itinerant service delivery for students with disabilities in inclusive preschool classrooms. Consultants (i.e., early childhood special education teachers and related service providers) and consultees (lead and assistant preschool teachers) working in inclusive preschool classrooms in a large Mountain West school district completed a survey eliciting their perceptions on consulting, including their definitions of the consulting role and factors they believed to be most important in building successful consulting relationships. Participants' answers to survey questions were analyzed and grouped into themes. There were similarities across both groups when describing the role of consultants, including assumptions that consultants should work directly with students in the classroom. Consultants and consultees also agreed that they have positive relationships with one another and that consultants are effective; however, consultant and consultee survey responses emphasized a need for respect within the consulting relationship. Understanding perceptions of consultative approaches may lead to practices and policies that improve consultative services and potentially lead to improved outcomes for preschool children with disabilities in inclusive settings.
Clinical application of trans-sinus gastric stent placement and drainage in the management of persistent external pancreatic fistula after minimal access retroperitoneal pancreatic necrosectomy in severe acute pancreatitis patients
Authors: Chen Yuhui , Su Maosheng , Xin Xianlei , Liu Zhiwei , Cai Shouwang
Published: November 2022

Background:

Persistent external pancreatic fistula (EPF) in patients with pancreatic duct disruption or disconnection can result from minimal access to retroperitoneal pancreatic necrosectomy (MARPN) in severe acute pancreatitis patients, which is a difficult problem for clinicians and requires a long treatment duration. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and safety of trans-sinus gastric stent placement and drainage using interventional technology in the management of persistent EPF after MARPN in severe acute pancreatitis.

Methods:

From August 2018 to December 2020, the data of 9 patients with persistent EPF treated with trans-sinus gastric stent placement and drainage in our hospital were retrospectively collected. The main outcome measures were technical success rate, recurrence rate, new pancreatic fluid collection, morbidity, and mortality. All patients were followed up after the procedure through clinic visits and imaging modalities.

Results:

The median age of the patients was 46 years (30–61 years). The median persistent EPF duration was 5 months (2–12 months). The median follow-up time was 41 months (range, 20–47 months). The median operation time was 48 minutes (range, 40–54 minutes), and the technical success rate was 100%. Seven days after treatment, the percutaneous drainage tubes of all patients were removed. Six months after the procedure, 2 patients lost the stents, and one of those patients suffered from a pseudocyst, which gradually increased to a maximum diameter of 7 cm over 9 months. Therefore, a double pigtail drainage tube was placed under the guidance of an endoscope. The second of these 2 patients had no recurrence or pseudocyst. Twelve months after the procedure, another 3 patients lost the stents; 18 months after the procedure, another 2 patients lost the stents. These patients had no recurrence as well. No other adverse events or deaths occurred during the study period.

Conclusion:

Trans-sinus tract gastric stent placement and drainage are safe and effective in the treatment of persistent EPF after MARPN in severe acute pancreatitis patients. However, this study had a small sample size and did not include a comparative group.
Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy in Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Predictive Factors and Long-Term Step-Down Efficacy
Authors: Gutiérrez-Junquera Carolina , Fernández-Fernández Sonia , Domínguez-Ortega Gloria , Vila Miravet Víctor , García-Puig Roger , La Orden-Izquierdo Enrique , Peña Quintana Luis , Barrio Torres Josefa , Medina Benítez Enrique , Leis Rosaura , García-Romero Ruth , Fernández de Valderrama Ana , Vecino López Raquel , Donado Palencia Paloma ,   on behalf of the SEGHNP EoE Working Group
Published: November 2022

Objectives:

To assess the short- and long-term efficacy of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy for pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in real-world practice with a step-down strategy, and to evaluate factors predictive of PPI responsiveness.

Methods:

We collected data regarding the efficacy of PPIs during this cross-sectional analysis of the prospective nationwide RENESE registry. Children with EoE treated with PPI monotherapy were included. Histological remission was defined as a peak eosinophilic count of <15 eosinophils (eos)/high-power field (hpf). Factors associated with PPI responsiveness were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results:

After induction therapy, histological and clinico-histological remission were observed in 51.4% (n = 346) and 46.5% of children, respectively. Normal endoscopic appearance of the esophagus was associated with a higher possibility [odds ratio (OR), 9.20; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.10–40.16], and fibrostenotic phenotype was associated with a lower possibility (OR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.18–0.74) of histological remission. Long-term therapy with a step-down strategy effectively maintained histological remission in 68.5% and 85.3% of children at 7 months (n = 108) and 16 months (n = 34), respectively. Complete initial histological remission (≤5 eos/hpf) was associated with a higher possibility of sustained histological remission (OR, 5.08; 95% CI, 1.75–14.68). Adverse events were infrequent and mild.

Conclusions:

We confirmed the efficacy of PPIs for a large cohort of children with EoE with sustained histological remission using a step-down strategy. Children with fibrostenotic phenotypes are less likely to respond to induction therapy. Furthermore, patients with complete initial histological remission are more likely to experience long-term histological remission.
Comparison of effectiveness of Nintendo Wii-based exergaming and home-based fun video exercises in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Cavusoglu Irmak , Tarakci Devrim , Zenginler Yazgan Yonca , Yavuz Sevgi
Published: November 2022

Functional capacity and quality of life (QoL) are reduced in children and adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Aerobic, strengthening exercises, and exergames are reported as effective in the treatment of symptoms associated with CKD. Unlike adult patients, there are insufficient studies investigating the effects of exercise on disease-related symptoms in pediatric CKD. This study aimed to compare the effects of Nintendo Wii-based exergaming and home-based fun video exercises on functional capacity, muscle strength, physical activity (PA), depression, fatigue, and QoL in pediatric patients with CKD. Twenty-three pediatric patients with CKD were included in the study and randomized to group I (Nintendo Wii Fit) and group II (home-based fun video exercises). Patients in both groups underwent exercise programs twice per week for 6 weeks. Functional capacity, muscle strength, PA, QoL, fatigue, and depression of the patients were evaluated before and after the treatments. Sixteen patients completed the study. After treatment, significant differences were observed in both groups on 6MWT, muscle strength, average daily steps, PedsQoL Child Self-Report PHSS, and the Visual Fatigue Scale. Left knee flexor muscle strength and average step counts were found to be superior in group I. Both exergaming and home-based fun video exercises provide positive effects on functional capacity, muscle strength, fatigue, PA, depression, and QoL in pediatric patients with CKD. We think that these exercise methods can help to protect physical and mental health of patients and should be included in treatment from the early stages of the disease.
The 2-min walk test could replace the 6-min walk test in ambulant persons with subacute or chronic stroke: a two-stage retrospective study
Authors: Valet Maxime , Pierchon Laura , Lejeune Thierry
Published: November 2022

The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) is widely used to assess walking capacity among persons with stroke. Whether a shorter and more convenient test, the 2-minute walk test (2MWT) could replace it, was tested. Two retrospective analyses were conducted. The first one was performed on a sample of 20 persons with stroke who performed both the 2MWT and the 6MWT, and the second one, on a group of 82 persons with stroke who performed the 6MWT while measuring the distance covered each minute. Linear regression models were applied to test the validity of 2MWT with regard to 6MWT. In the first group, distances covered during the 2MWT were highly predictive of the distances covered during the 6MWT (estimated adjusted R² = 0.98; P < 0.001). In the second group, distances covered by participants during the first 2 min of the 6MWT were highly and linearly related to the distances they covered during the whole 6MWT (estimated adjusted R² = 0.98; P < 0.001). Furthermore, the distance covered during the first 2 min of the whole 6MWT allowed us to predict 98% of the variance of the 6MWT. Given its good metric properties and its practical advantages, clinicians and researchers could reasonably use the 2MWT when assessing the walking capacity of persons with stroke, instead of the 6MWT.
Cutaneous Mucormycosis of the Upper Extremity
Authors: Attaluri Pradeep , Soteropulos Carol , Kim Nicholas , Matloub Hani , Gander Brian
Published: November 2022

Mucormycosis is a devastating fungal infection known for its angioinvasive spread and hematogenous dissemination, quickly resulting in multiorgan involvement and potentially fatal complications. Timely diagnosis is essential to facilitate early, aggressive debridement, yet the diagnosis remains difficult to obtain because of the need for culture and microscopy diagnosis. We provide case examples, which highlight diagnostic pearls and the multidisciplinary approach that are critical for improving local outcomes, preventing systemic spread, and reducing mortality.
Urinary Incontinence Awareness and Attitude Scale (URINAS)
Authors: Avci İlknur Aydın , Öz Yıldırım Özge , Eren Dilek Çelik
Published: November 2022

PURPOSE:

This purpose of this study was to develop an instrument, the Urinary Incontinence Awareness and Attitude Scale (URINAS), to measure incontinence awareness and attitude, and to evaluate its reliability and validity.

DESIGN:

Instrument development and psychometric evaluation.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING:

The URINAS was validated in a group of individuals cared for at a family health center in Samsun, in northern Turkey. The sample comprised 637 respondents. Nearly three-fourths of participants (74.3%, n = 473) were female; their average age was 30.2 years. More than one-third of participants (35.6%, n = 227) reported urinary incontinence (UI).

METHODS:

Participants completed a questionnaire designed for the study that queried demographic and pertinent clinical data; they also completed the URINAS and the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6). Explanatory factor analysis was then performed to evaluate validity of the URNAS. Parallel from reliability was evaluated by comparing URINAS and UDI-6 scores to determine parallel form reliability, and the Cronbach α was used to evaluate internal consistency.

RESULTS:

The URINAS comprises 26 items, divided into 5 subdimensions. The total explanatory variance of the scale is 65.3%, and the factor loadings of the scale items range from 0.38 to 0.85. A significant relationship was found in the correlation analysis between the UDI-6 used for the parallel form and the URINAS. Cronbach α coefficients vary from 0.60 and 0.92.

CONCLUSIONS:

The URINAS is a valid and reliable instrument that can be used for measuring awareness and attitudes toward UI.