bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of COVID-19 on Sustainable Development Goals and Effective Approaches to Maneuver them in the Post-Pandemic Environment
Authors: Elavarasan Rajvikram Madurai , Pugazhendhi Rishi , Shafiullah GM , Kumar Nallapaneni Manoj , Arif Mohammad Taufiqul , Jamal Taskin , Chopra Shauhrat Singh , Dyduch Joanna
Published: September 2021

To resume the construction of a sustainable world, it is crucial to assess the damage imparted by the pandemic to the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For this purpose, this study is formulated to assess the endurance of SDGs amidst the reverberating wave of impacts that unfolded from the pandemic, and further, to provide a direction in the post-pandemic environment to effectively progress towards the SDGs. A detailed investigation is carried out to examine the drag resulted due to the pandemic impacts in every goal and a quantified impact analysis is performed in terms of the targets of the SDGs. The results indicate that SDG 1 and SDG 8 are the most impacted goal. To dive deep down into the SDGs, the characterization of SDGs from their elemental point of view such as nature of goals, depending on factors, locus of the goal and SDGs interaction is accomplished. Further, a novel parameter, the degree of randomness is proposed whose application in environmental research is immense. The impact on each goal and impact interaction between all the SDGs are also mapped, through which the dynamics of SDG interaction is elaborated. In context with the post-pandemic scenario, the strategies to achieve the SDGs with environmental focus are presented with prioritization factor that helps in the quick revitalization. This prioritization factor is formulated by employing a multi-criteria analysis methodology. To add to it, the fundamental elements of SDGs are built upon one another to frame an optimized and effective approach to achieve the SDGs in the post-pandemic environment. Despite the strategies, a conceptual framework to align the business practices with the SDGs is propounded. This study deep down would provide a unique perspective to the research community and would impart deeper knowledge in connection with sustainability while the solutions framed would steer the policy and decision-makers.
Construction of immune-related lncRNA signature to predict aggressiveness, immune landscape, and drug resistance of colorectal cancer
Authors: Xue Yonggan , Ning Bobin , Liu Hongyi , Jia Baoqing
Published: September 2021

Background:Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most common malignancies across the world. Thus far, a biomarker, which can comprehensively predict the survival outcomes, clinical characteristics, and therapeutic sensitivity, is still lacking. Methods: We leveraged retrieved transcriptomic data of CRC from the public database, and constructed irlncRNA pairs. After integrating with clinical survival data, we performed differential analysis and constructed 11 irlncRNA pairs signature using Lasso regression analysis. We next drew the 1-, 5-, 10-year curve line of receiver operating characteristics, calculated the areas under the curve, and recognized the optimal cutoff point. Then, we validated the pair-risk model in terms of the survival outcomes of the patients. Moreover, we tested the reliability of the pair-risk model for predicting tumor aggressiveness and therapeutic responsiveness of CRC. Additionally, we reemployed the 11 of irlncRNAs involved in the pair-risk model to construct an expression risk model that was also highly predictive of prognostic outcomes of CRC patients. Results:We recognized a total of 377 DEirlcRNAs, including 28 low-expressed and 349 high-expressed irlncRNAs in CRC patients. After performing a univariant Cox analysis, we identified 115 risk irlncRNAs that were significantly correlated with survival outcomes of patients with CRC. By taking the intersection of the DEirlcRNAs and the risk irlncRNAs, we ultimately recognized 55 irlncRNA as core irlncRNAs. Then, we established a Cox HR model (pair-risk model) as well as an expression HR model (exp-risk model). We found that both of the two models significantly outperformed the common-used clinical characteristics, including age, T, N, and M stages, in terms of predicting survival outcomes. Moreover, we validated the pair-risk model can serve as a potential tool for studying the tumor microenvironment of CRC and drug response. Additionally, we noticed that combining the pair-risk model and exp-risk model yielded a more robust approach for predicting the survival outcomes of patients with CRC.Conclusions:We suggest that the irlncRNA-based risk models can be utilized as prognostic tools to predict survival outcomes and clinical characteristics and guide treatment regimens of CRC.
Cytotoxicity, Redox and Immune Status in African Catfish, Clarias Gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) Exposed to Bisphenol a (BPA) and its Analogues
Authors: Samuel Oluwakemi D. , Adeyemi Joseph , Bamidele Olufemi S. , Barbosa Fernando , Adedire Chris O.
Published: September 2021

The objective of the study was to determine the comparative toxicities and immune dysfunction in the African catfish, Clarias gariepinus exposed to bisphenol A (BPA) and its two analogues; bisphenol AP (BPAP) and bisphenol P (BPP). Juveniles of C. gariepinus were exposed to sublethal concentrations (70 and 140 μg/L) of BPA, BPAP and BPP for 7, 14, or 21 days after which various endpoints which are indicative of cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, haematological and innate immune parameters were determined in the liver homogenates or blood plasma. The exposure of C. gariepinus to BPA and its analogues caused significant increased activities of lactate dehydrogenase, catalase and superoxide dismutase. The exposed fish had increased levels of DNA fragmentation, lipid peroxidation, white blood cells, nitric oxide and respiratory burst while the red blood cells counts and the percentage packed cell volume decreased significantly in the exposed fish compared to control. The toxic effects elicited by the bisphenols were both concentration- and duration-dependent. Generally, BPA exerted the most toxic effects on the fish, followed by BPAP while BPP exerted the least toxic effect effects to C. gariepinus. Summarily, the findings indicated that BPA and its two analogues studied in the research are capable of causing cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and immune dysfunction in C. gariepinus.
A Comparative Study on Channel Coding Scheme for Underwater Acoustic Communication
Authors: Ahmed Mustafa Sami , Shah Nor Shahida Mohd
Published: September 2021

There are various challenges in underwater acoustic communication (UWA) however bit error rate (BER) is considered as the main challenge as it significantly affects the UWA communication. In this paper, different coding schemes such as Convolution, Turbo, LDPC, and Polar coding based on the t-distribution noise channel are investigated, and binary phase-shift keying (BPSK) modulation with a code rate of 1/2 has considered in the evaluation and analyses. The evaluation of these channel coding schemes is performed based on BER, computational complexity as well as latency. The results have shown the outperform of polar coding in UWA over other channel coding schemes as it has lower BER and lower computational complexity.
Relationship Between Extra-Long Interpregnancy Interval and Adverse Perinatal Outcomes in Chinese Women
Authors: Zeng Miss Jinmei , Chen Riling , He Jieyun , Liang Dongmei , Zhao Xinyu , Lian Tingyu , Yin Mingjuan , Ma Xingyu , Luo Xiaowen , Pan Xueyan , Liao Jia , Zhang Lei , Ni Jindong
Published: September 2021

Objective To evaluate the association between extra-long interpregnancy interval and adverse perinatal outcomes. Methods A retrospective cohort study on women experiencing their second delivery between 2017 and 2018 in a maternal and child health hospital was conducted to evaluate the association between the extra-long interpregnancy interval (IPI) and adverse perinatal outcomes. IPI ≥180 months was defined as extra-long IPI. Logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the adverse perinatal outcomes in different IPI groups, and compared with the predicted risks at 24–59, 60–119, 120–179, and 180-month IPI, with the 12–23-month interval serving as a reference. Results After adjusting for all possible confounding factors, there was an increased risk of premature rupture of membranes (aOR 1.83, 95% CI 1.13–2.97 and aOR 3.30, 95% CI 1.40–7.74) in the IPI of 60–119 and 120–179 months among women with age-appropriate maternity. However, the effects of extra-long IPI on adverse perinatal outcomes did not significantly differ among women with advanced maternal age. Conclusions These results indicate that long IPI (60–179 month) is an independent risk factor for premature rupture of membranes. Extra-long IPI (≥180 months) was not associated with an increase in major morbidity, but extra-long IPI often coexists with advanced age, so we still need to pay attention to the maternal risk factors associated with extra-long IPI.
Epithelioid Angiosarcoma of the Tibia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Yao Qianqian , Ge Xubo , Gao Yinghua , Li Changqin , qin jian
Published: September 2021

Background：Epithelioid angiosarcoma (EA) is characterized by epithelioid-like neoplastic cells. In fact, there is little literature regarding EA of bone. Accordingly, this study presents an imaging analysis of a 66-year-old man who suffered from EA in his right tibia.Case presentation: A 66-year-old man developed right ankle pain four months prior to initial evaluation at our institute, which was progressively worsening for six days. All laboratory data were within the reference ranges. Plain radiographs and computed tomography (CT) revealed osteolytic lesions with multiple separations in the distal tibia, measuring 7.9 cm × 4.6 cm × 4.4 cm in size. The lytic lesions were ill-circumscribed and lacked marginal sclerosis. Punctate irregular calcifications and low-density areas were observed within lesion's areas. The cortical bone was irregularly thinned and was discontinuous. On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the lesions were heterogeneous. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells expressed the vascular markers CD31, CD34, and factor VIII and revealed 5% positivity for Ki67. Finally, the patient was diagnosed with EA of bone.Conclusions: We reported a case of EA that occurred in the right tibia and summarized the imaging features of EA by reviewing the literature. Although pathological examination remains the gold standard for diagnosing EA, specific imaging features may assist in diagnosis.
Comparison of Gastrojejunostomy with Endoscopic Stenting for Gastric Outlet Obstruction: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Hong Jiaze , Gu Lihu , Li Jiayu , Hu Peidong , Chen Ping , Du Nannan , Huang Tongmin , Chen Jingjie
Published: September 2021

Background: Gastrojejunostomy (GJ) and endoscopic stenting (ES) are common palliative treatments for gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). This study aimed to determine the optimal intervention modality for malignant GOO by comparing clinical outcomes after GJ and ES.Methods: Two authors independently searched Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for all the relevant articles before February 2021 to compare the clinical outcomes of GOO patients undergoing GJ or ES. The primary outcome was overall survival.Results: This meta-analysis included 31 articles with 2444 GOO patients. Although the GJ group outperformed the ES group in technical success (OR,3.79; P=0.003), clinical success was not significantly different between the two groups (OR,1.25; P=0.50). The GJ group had a longer hospitalization (WMD,7.34; P=0.001), lower re-obstruction (OR, 0.41; P=0.006) and lower reintervention (OR, 0.30; P<0.001). Moreover, this meta-analysis revealed that GJ had a better overall survival than ES in the gastric cancer group (HR, 0.33; P=0.009). However, no significant statistical difference was observed between GJ and ES in the pancreatic cancer group (HR, 0.55; P=0.159).Conclusions: Both GJ and ES are safe and effective intervention modalities for malignant GOO. GJ had significantly improved survival in gastric cancer patients with GOO, while no significant difference was observed between the two groups in pancreatic cancer patients with GOO. Therefore, we recommend that life expectancy should be considered when choosing palliative treatment for malignant GOO (ES or GJ).
Optical solutions and other solutions for Radhakrishnan-Kundu-Laksmannan equation by using improved modified extended tanh-function method
Authors: Elsherbeny Ahmed M. , El–Barkouky Reda , Ahmed Hamdy , El-Hassani Rabab M. I. , Arnous Ahmed H.
Published: September 2021

This paper studies Radhakrishnan-Kundu-Laksmannan equation which is used to describe the pulse propagation in optical fiber communications. By using improved modified extended tanh-function method various types of solutions are extracted such as bright solitons, singular solitons, singular periodic wave solutions, Jacobi elliptic solutions, periodic wave solutions and Weierstrass elliptic doubly periodic solutions. Moreover, some of the obtained solutions are represented graphically.
Discovery of Significant Emission of Halogenated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons From Secondary Zinc Smelting
Authors: Yang Yuanping , Yang Lili , Liu Guorui , Zheng Minghui , Yang Qiuting , Liu Shuting
Published: September 2021

Chlorinated and brominated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (Cl/Br-PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants, and controlling their adverse effects requires the identification of their sources. However, current knowledge on the formations of Cl/Br-PAHs is far insufficient for source control, much less on their formation mechanisms. In this field study, we firstly discovered secondary zinc smelting as a significant source of Cl/Br-PAHs. The mean concentration of Cl/Br-PAHs emitted in stack gas from secondary zinc smelting was 9,553 ng/m3, exceeding concentrations from other metal smelting sources by one or two orders of magnitude. Cl/Br-PAHs with fewer rings were the dominant congeners in stack gas from secondary zinc smelting and secondary copper smelting. However, emissions from secondary aluminum smelting were dominated by congeners with more rings. The differences in congener profiles were attributable to the catalytic effects of metal compounds during smelting activities. Zinc oxide and copper oxide dominantly catalyzed dehydrogenation reactions, contributing to the formation of intermediate radicals and subsequent dimerization to Cl/Br-PAHs with fewer rings. Aluminum oxide induced alkylation reactions and accelerated ring growth, resulting in the formation of Cl-PAHs with more rings. The newly proposed mechanisms can successfully explain the emission characteristics of Cl/Br-PAHs during smelting activities and the higher concentrations of Cl/Br-PAHs from secondary zinc smelting, which should be useful in targeted source control.
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Pediatric Acute Liver Failure
Authors: Yang Chun-Feng , Yu-Ao  , Jin Lin-Mei , Li Yumei
Published: September 2021

We aims to assess the efficacy and safety of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in pediatric acute liver failure (PALF) and to examine possible risk factors for mortality. Similar data are limited in PALF. Thirty-three cases diagnosed with PALF who received TPE from June 2011 to June 2021 in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of the First Hospital of Jilin University were included in this retrospective cohort analysis. Descriptive statistics were used for the clinical features of these patients and TPE related variables. The effect of TPE was measured by the difference tests before and after treatment. Survivors with native livers and nonsurvivors were also compared by the difference tests. In the TPE combined with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) group (21/33, 63.6%), the patients were older, and more patients had multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (76.2% vs 25%, P =0.009) and a greater need for mechanical ventilation (86.2% vs 8.3%, P ＜0.001). TPE can significantly reduce alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and international normalized ratio . The most common complication in the overall population was hypocalcemia (n=12, 36%), while the most common complication in children under 2 years of age was hypotension (n=3, 40%). The mortality of liver transplant-free patients was 10/30 (30%). The nonsurvivor group had significantly more failed organs, longer PICU stays and more patients requiring ventilatory support. ConclusionsTPE alone or combined with CRRT can effectively improve liver function and may reduce mortality. TPE can be performed relatively safely in critically ill children, including younger patients.
Polymicrobial Synergy Stimulates Porphyromonas Gingivalis Survival And Gingipain Expression In A Multispecies Subgingival Community
Authors: Davies Julia R. , Kad Trupti , Neilands Jessica , Kinnby Bertil , Prgomet Zdenka , Bengtsson Torbjörn , Khalaf Hazem , Svensäter Gunnel
Published: September 2021

Background Dysbiosis in subgingival microbial communities, resulting from increased inflammatory transudate from the gingival tissues, is an important factor in initiation and development of periodontitis. Dysbiotic communities are characterized by increased numbers of bacteria that exploit the serum-like transudate for nutrients, giving rise to a proteolytic community phenotype. Here we investigate the contribution of interactions between members of a sub-gingival community to survival and development of virulence in a serum environment - modelling that in the subgingival pocket. Methods Growth and proteolytic activity of three P. gingivalis strains in nutrient-rich broth or a serum environment were assessed using A600 and a fluorescent protease substrate, respectively. Adherence of P. gingivalis strains to serum-coated surfaces was studied with confocal microscopy and 2D-gel electrophoresis of bacterial supernatants used to investigate extracellular proteins. A model multi-species sub-gingival community containing Fusobacterium nucleatum, Streptococcus constellatus, Parvimonas micra with wild type or isogenic mutants was then created and growth and proteolytic activity in serum assessed as above. Community composition over time was monitored using culture techniques and qPCR. Results The P. gingivalis strains showed different growth rates in nutrient-rich broth related to the level of proteolytic activity (largely gingipains) in the cultures. Despite being able to adhere to serum-coated surfaces, none of the strains was able to grow alone in a serum environment. In the subgingival consortium however, all the included species were able to grow in the serum environment and the community adopted a proteolytic phenotype. Inclusion of P. gingivalis strains lacking gingipains in the consortium revealed that the ability of the community to grow was largely due to Rgp gingipain. Conclusions In the multi-species consortium, growth was facilitated by the wild-type and Rgp-expressing strains of P. gingivalis, suggesting that Rgp is involved in delivery of nutrients to the whole community through degradation of complex serum substrates. Whereas they are constitutively expressed by P. gingivalis in nutrient-rich broth, gingipain expression in the model periodontal pocket environment (serum) appears to be orchestrated through signaling to P. gingivalis from other members of the community, a phenomenon which can then promote growth of the whole community.
Biochar From Feedstock: A Strategy To Improve Agronomic Performances And Microbial Biomass of Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum I.) Plant.
Authors: ADEBAJO Seun , OLUWATOBI Folasade , AKINTOKUN Pius , OJO Abidemi , AKINTOKUN Ronke , GBODOPE Ige
Published: September 2021

Tomato is beneficial to human health because it contains valuable vitamins such as vitamins A, C and several minerals. However, to meet up with the demands of the ever increasing population, there is need to improve tomato production. This research, investigated the impact of biochar derived from rice husk on agronomic performances of tomato plant. The rice husk biochar pyrolysed at 350 ºC was amended with soil at four different application rates: 0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 t/ha. Physicochemical property of soil was conducted using Mid Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy method. Impact of biochar on Microbial Biomass Carbon, Microbial Biomass Nitrogen and Microbial Biomass Phosphorous was conducted using fumigation extraction method and monitored at three functional stages. Biochar application appreciably increase the soil physicochemical properties such as pH, Ca, Na, H+, S, P, B, Zn and cation exchangeable capacity. Biochar amended soil significantly enhanced tomato height, fruit yields and weight. The ratio of Microbial biomass C: N: P for biochar amended soil at 7.5 t/ha (B3) was 302.30: 18.81: 11.75 µg/g, compared to control, which was 242.12: 18.30: 11.49 µg/g. This study revealed that biochar amendments significantly (p < 0.05) increased the yields and microbial biomass of tomato plant.
Sustainable removal of soil arsenic by naturally-formed iron oxides on plastic tubes
Authors: Yuan Zhao-Feng , Pu Tong-Yao , Jin Chen-Yu , Feng Wei-Jia , Wang Jia-Yue , Gustave Williamson , Bridge Jonathan , Cheng Yi-Li , Tang Xianjin , Zhu Yong-Guan , Chen Zheng
Published: September 2021

Arsenic (As) pollution in paddy fields is a major threat to rice safety. Existing As remediation techniques are costly, require external chemical addition and degrade soil properties. Here, we report the use of plastic tubes as a recyclable tool to precisely extract As from contaminated soils. Following insertion into flooded paddy soils, polyethylene (PE) tube walls were covered by thin but massive Fe coatings of 76.9-367 mg Fe m-2 in 2 weeks, which adsorbed significant amounts of As as well as lead and antimony. The formation of tube-wall Fe oxides was driven by local Fe-oxidizing bacteria with oxygen produced by oxygenic phototrophs (e.g., Cyanobacteria) or diffused from air through the tube wall. The tubes with As-bound Fe oxides can be easily separated from soil and then recycled. We tested the As removal efficiency in a pilot experiment to remove As from ~ 20 cm depth / 80 kg soils in a two-year experiment and achieved an overall efficiency of 152 mg As m-2 soil year-1. The As accumulated in rice tissues was significantly decreased in the treatment. This work provides a low-cost and sustainable soil remediation method for the targeted removal of As from soils and a useful tool for the study and management of the biogeochemical Fe cycle in paddy soils.
Research on Current Curative Expenditure and Influencing Factors Among Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases Based on “System of Health Accounts 2011”
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Li Xiaoju , Mao Lu , Yang Jielin
Published: September 2021

Background: This study aims to research the total current curative expenditure (CCE) of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CVDs) and their influencing factors in Xinjiang, China. Methods: Through multistage stratified cluster sampling, the sample information of patients with CVDs in Xinjiang, in 2017, was collected. Under the framework of “System of Health Accounts 2011,” the top-down allocation method was used to calculate the CCE of CVDs. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the influencing factors. Results: The CCE of CVDs in Xinjiang was 10.574 billion yuan; 86.81% of the CCE was spent in hospitals, of which 67.22% went to general hospitals. Coronary heart disease, hypertension, and cerebral infarction were the top three diseases among the treatment cost of CVDs, accounting for 74.20% of the total treatment cost. The CCE of older adults aged 65 years and above accounted for 43.51%. The main factors affecting the hospitalization cost were length of stay, grade of the medical institution, operation, age, payment method, and gender. Conclusions: CVDs consume numerous health funds in Xinjiang; prevention and control work focus on older adults. Further, the flow of treatment cost institutions is unreasonable; thus, the role of primary medical institutions in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases should be strengthened. Reducing the length of hospital stay can effectively control the CCE.
Scaling-up From Leaf to Whole-plant Level for Water Use Efficiency Estimates Based on Stomatal and Mesophyll Behavior
Authors: Zhang Yonge , Jia Guodong , Lihua Chen , Yu Xinxiao
Published: September 2021

AimsPrediction of whole-plant short-term water use efficiency (WUEs,P) is essential to indicate plant performance and facilitates comparison across different temporal and spatial scales. Here, the isotope model for WUEs,P was scaled-up from the leaf to the whole-plant level.MethodsFor WUEs,P modelling, leaf gas exchange information, plant respiration and “unproductive” water loss were taken into account. Specifically, in shaping the expression of the WUEs,P, we emphasized the role of both stomatal (gsw) and mesophyll conductance (gm). ResultsThe verification showed that estimates of gsw from the coupled photosynthesis (Pn,L)-gsw model accounting for the effect of soil water stress slightly outperformed the model neglecting the soil water status effect, and the established coupled Pn,L-gm model proved more effective in the estimation of gm than the previously proposed model. Introducing the two diffusion control functions into the whole-plant model, the developed model for WUEs,P effectively captured its response pattern to different CO2 concentration (Ca) and soil water content (SWC) conditions. ConclusionsOverall, this study confirmed that accurate estimation of WUEs,P requires an improved predictive accuracy of gsw and gm. These results have important implications for predicting how plants respond to climate change.
Job Satisfaction Among Syrian Healthcare Workers in Refugee Health Centers in Turkey
Authors: Zikusooka Monica , Elci Omur Cinar , Özdemir Habibe
Published: September 2021

Background: Achieving universal health coverage is subject to the availability, accessibility, acceptability and quality of health workers. Countries that host refugees and migrants, like Turkey, must strengthen the capacity of their health systems to increase access to services, especially for refugees and migrants. The Turkish Ministry of Health adapted Syrian refugee healthcare workers in the healthcare services to boost Syrian refugees' access to healthcare. This study aimed to assess job satisfaction and the factors influencing job satisfaction among refugee physicians and nurses working in Refugee Health Centers (RHCs) in Turkey.Methods: A self-administered, cross-sectional survey targeted all Syrian physicians and nurses working in RHCs across Turkey. The short-form Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire(MSQ) was used to assess job satisfaction. In total, 555 nurse/midwives and 336 physicians responded, yielding a total response rate of 56.5%. Descriptive analyses and linear regression tests were conducted to determine the level of job satisfaction and to analyze determinant factors. Results: Nurses/midwives reported the highest level of general job satisfaction, followed by specialist physicians and general physicians. Physicians who had worked as specialists in Syria but were now working as general physicians in Turkey had the lowest job satisfaction levels. Multiple regression analysis showed that professional status in Turkey, income, teamwork and team management were significantly associated with job satisfaction.Conclusions: To maintain a high level of job satisfaction in refugee healthcare workers, human resources management should consider matching job placements with training specialization and support good leadership and good teamwork. Remuneration that accounts for the cost of living and non-financial incentives could also play a significant role in job satisfaction.
Use, Usability, And Impact of A Tool To Support Conversations About End-of-Life Preferences In Residential Elder Care – A Qualitative Study of Staff Experiences
Authors: Johansson Therese , Tishelman Carol , Eriksson Lars E. , Cohen Joachim , Goliath Ida
Published: September 2021

Background: If EOL care is to be person-centred and value-concordant, proactive conversations about individual preferences between residents, relatives, and staff are required. Nevertheless, the prevalence of conversations about preferences for EOL care is still low in residential care homes (RCHs), often relating to staff’s perceived lack of skills and confidence. Conversation tools may be useful to support staff in facilitating EOL conversations, but often focus more on documenting treatment priorities than on exploring underlying values and reasoning for preferences. In this study, we use the DöBra cards, the Swedish version of the GoWish cards, to support discussions about EOL care values and preferences in RCHs, and explore staff perspectives on use, usability, and impact. Methods: This qualitative study was based on data generated from two participatory action research processes in which RCH staff tested and evaluated use of DöBra cards in EOL conversations. Data comprise 6 interviews and 8 group meetings with a total of 13 participants from 7 elder care facilities. Qualitative content analysis was performed to identify key concepts in relation to use, usability, and impact of the DöBra cards with residents and/or relatives.Results: Based on participants’ experiences of using the DöBra cards as an EOL conversation tool in RCHs, we identified three main categories in relation to its usefulness. Outcomes of using the cards (1) included the outlining of content of conversations and supporting connection and development of rapport. Perceived impact (2) related to enabling openings for future communication and aligning care goals between stakeholders. Use and usability of the cards (3) were influenced by supporting and limiting factors on the personal and contextual level.Conclusions: This study demonstrates how the DöBra cards was found to be useful by staff for facilitating conversations about EOL values, influencing both the content of discussion and interactions between those present. The tool encouraged reflection and interaction, which staff perceived as potentially helpful in building preparedness for future care-decision making. The combination of providing a shared framework and being adaptable in use appeared to be key features for the DöBra cards usability in the RCH setting.
Technical Efficiency of Kenyan Smallholder Dairy Farmers in Different Agro-ecological Regions
Authors: Ngeno Vincent , Chumo Chepchumba
Published: September 2021

We employ stochastic meta-frontier and region-specific frontiers based on the “true” random effect framework to examine technical efficiencies, technology gaps and meta-frontier technical efficiency of Kenyan smallholder dairy farmers in different agro-ecological zones. The empirical analysis is based on comprehensive three-wave household level panel data from across three agro-ecological zones in Kenya. Results show variations in efficiency measures and that smallholder milk production is characterized by increasing returns scale across all agro-ecological zones. The results indicate that the milk output of smallholder dairy farmers from all the agro-ecological zones lags behind their potential with the technology available and the prevailing enviromnetal conditions in their agro-ecological zones. We also, find that there exists a significant technology gap in dairy production across the agro-ecological zones in Kenya. These findings generate important policy implication for achieving increased technical efficiency and reduce the technology gap in smallholder dairy production.
Effect of Changes in Dietary Net Energy Concentration on Growth Performance, Fat Deposition, Skatole Production, and Intestinal Morphology in Immunocastrated Male Pigs
Authors: Lukač Nina Batorek , Čandek-Potokar Marjeta , Škrlep Martin , Kubale Valentina , Labussière Etienne
Published: September 2021

Background: Nutritional requirements of heavy immunocastrated pigs (IM) and thus the appropriate feeding strategies have not been determined. Methods: The effects of a reduced net energy (NE) diet, achieved by including up to 10% dietary fiber were studied in 41 IM pigs fed ad libitum with an extended period between immunization and slaughter (i.e. 8 weeks). Traits assessed included growth performance (before and after immunization at 112 days of age), fat deposition, intestinal skatole and indole production, intestinal morphology, and cell proliferation. Results: From 84 days of age, IM pigs were fed diets with low, medium, or high NE content (LNE, MNE, and HNE diets; with 8.5, 9.3, and 10.0 MJ NE/kg). There was no effect (P > 0.10) of feed NE concentration on average daily gain or the ratio of BW gain to NE intake in any of the periods studied. However, in the period from 143 to 170 days of age, there was a tendency for a higher NE intake (P = 0.08) in pigs fed the HNE diet along with higher (P < 0.01) backfat gain. Dietary treatment affected carcass composition as lower backfat thickness (P = 0.01) and lower area of fat over the longissimus muscle (P = 0.05) were observed in LNE and MNE pigs. In addition, higher lean meat content (P = 0.04) was observed in LNE pigs. Reducing the NE of the diet with fiber addition resulted in lower indole production in the ascending colon (P < 0.01), and higher skatole production (P < 0.01) in the cecum. Greater villi area, width, height and perimeter, crypt depth, and thickness of the intestinal mucosa in the jejunum, ileum, ascending colon, and descending colon were found for the LNE group (P < 0.01) than for the HNE group, while the MNE group was intermediate. Cell proliferation was not affected by dietary treatment (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The present results show that despite improved absorptive capacity (indicated by histomorphological changes in the intestinal mucosa), a reduction in dietary NE concentration reduces lipid deposition, without affecting performance or energy efficiency in IM pigs.
Reef Larval Recruitment in Response to Seascape Dynamics in the SW Atlantic
Authors: Mazzuco Ana Carolina Azevedo , Bernardino Angelo Fraga
Published: September 2021

Advances in satellite observation have improved our capacity to track changes in the ocean and seascapes with numerous ecological and conservation applications, but yet under explored for coastal ecology. In this study, we assessed dynamics in the Seascape Pelagic Habitat Classification, a satellite remote-sensing product developed by NOAA to monitor biodiversity globally, and invertebrate larval recruitment in order to identify and predict changes in coastal benthic assemblages at tropical reefs in the SW Atlantic. Our results revealed that pelagic Seascapes correlated with monthly and seasonal variations in recruitment rates and assemblage composition. Recruitment was strongly influenced by subtropical Seascapes and was reduced during warm, blooms, and high-nutrient waters, likely to affect reef communities in the long term. Modeling indicate that Seascapes may be more efficient than temperature in predicting benthic larval dynamics. Based on historical Seascape patterns, we identified seven events that may have impacted benthic recruitment in this region in the last decades, which not surprisingly, coincided with consistent global heatwaves. These findings provide new insights into the application of novel satellite remote-sensing Seascape categorizations in benthic ecology and evidenced how reef larval supply in the SW Atlantic could be impacted by recent and future ocean changes.
Predicting the Perception of Dental Pain Based on Pain Anxiety, Dental Anxiety and Mental Pain in an Iranian Sample: Emphasizing the Type of Patient Complaint
Authors: taheri Amir abbas , parvizifard Ali akbar , Reisi Sajjad Raeesi , Jafari Mahsa , heshmati Khatereh , Foroughi Aliakbar , Eivazi Masoome
Published: September 2021

Background: dental pain is one of the most common complaints related to dentistry services. Studies indicate that in addition to the damage to the nerves of teeth, psychological factors affect the perception of pain. This study aims to investigate the psychological factors which influence precepting tooth pain. Moreover, another purpose of the current study is to investigate the impact of some services such as tooth restoration and a root canal on the psychological variables. Methods: The research design was a cross-sectional study by convenience sampling method. The participants were 328 patients who consulted the dentistry clinics in Kermanshah city in 2020-20201. The used instruments for this study were the Questionnaires of Pain Anxiety (PASS-20), Dental Anxiety (DAI), Mental Pain (OMMP), and Pain Perception (SF-MPQ-2). Finally, the data after being collected were entered into SPSS version 24 and were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Results: According to the results of the Pearson correlation coefficient, precepting pain had a significant relationship (P=.001) with dental anxiety (r=0.38), pain anxiety (r=0.45), and mental pain (r=0.25). Based on the results of simultaneous multiple regression analysis (Enter), dental anxiety variables (β =.266), pain anxiety (β =.356), and mental pain (β =.139) were the significant predictors of precepting pain (P<0.05). Moreover, in terms of dental anxiety, there was a significant difference between the patients who consult dentistry clinics for root canal services and those whose purposes were receiving other services (P<.001). Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, it can be concluded that psychological factors such as dental anxiety, pain anxiety, and mental pain affect precepting dental pain. Further, the kind of received services influences the psychological factors related to dentistry services.
Hyperacute Carotid Artery Occlusion with Insufficient Collateral Flow: A Case Report Illustrating a Largely Ignored Life-Threatening Traumatic Cerebrovascular Injury
Authors: Yang Pengfei , Tang Haishuang , Li He , Zhao Kaijun , Zhang Hongjian , Zhao Rui , Li Qiang , Xu Yi , Huang Qinghai , Liu Jianmin
Published: September 2021

Background: Traumatic cerebrovascular injuries (TCI) are rare diseases, with the incidence of 0.18%-1.5% among trauma patients. Among TCI, ischemic TCI is more likely to be ignored when compared with hemorrhagic TCI. However severe ischemic TCI such as acute total occlusion of carotid artery may also be life-threatening especially when without sufficient collateral flow.Case presentation: We report an 18-year-old male patient in cardiopulmonary arrest was transported to our hospital 13 minutes after falling from a 60-feet tall building. After physical examination, an acute right internal carotid arteries (ICA) occlusion was suspected and be further confirmed by digital subtraction angiography (DSA) examination. Subsequent angiograms showed bilateral traumatic dissections of the ICA with complete occlusion of the right ICA just distal to the carotid bifurcation, and severe narrowing of the left ICA. Two covered stents were implanted to reconstruct bilateral ICAs followed by proximal occlusion of ruptured ECA branches using coils. The patient’s blood pressure gradually improved after the procedure. Dual antiplatelet therapy was initiated on the second day. Six-month Follow-up CTAs indicated that bilateral ICAs were well reconstructed, and the patient had a mRS score of 1 at six-month follow-up. Conclusion: TCI may achieve very good clinical outcome if they were diagnosed and properly treated via timely endovascular intervention.
Generation and characterisation of isolated attosecond pulses at 100 kHz repetition rate
Authors: Witting Tobias , Osolodkov Mikhail , Schell Felix , Morales Felipe , Patchkovskii Serguei , Šušnjar Peter Peter , Cavalcante Fabio , Menoni Carmen , Schulz Claus , Furch Federico , Vrakking Marc
Published: September 2021

The generation of coherent light pulses in the extreme ultraviolet
(XUV) spectral region with attosecond pulse durations constitutes the
foundation of the field of attosecond science [1]. Twenty years
after the first demonstration of isolated attosecond pulses [2], they
continue to be a unique tool enabling the observation and control of
electron dynamics in atoms, molecules and solids [3, 4]. It has long
been identified that an increase in the repetition rate of attosecond
light sources is necessary for many applications in atomic and
molecular physics [5, 6], surface science [7], and imaging
[8]. Although high harmonic generation (HHG) at repetition rates
exceeding 100 kHz, showing a continuum in the cut-off region of the
XUV spectrum was already demonstrated in 2013 [9], the number of
photons per pulse was insufficient to perform pulse characterisation
via attosecond streaking [10], let alone to perform a pump-probe
experiment. Here we report on the generation and full characterisation
of XUV attosecond pulses via HHG driven by near-single-cycle pulses at
a repetition rate of 100 kHz. The high number of 106 XUV photons per
pulse on target enables attosecond electron streaking experiments
through which the XUV pulses are determined to consist of a dominant
single attosecond pulse. These results open the door for attosecond
pump-probe spectroscopy studies at a repetition rate one or two
orders of magnitude above current implementations.
Efficient 3-hydroxypropionic acid Production by Acetobacter sp. CIP 58.66 through a Feeding Strategy based on pH Control
Authors: DE FOUCHÉCOUR Florence , LEMARCHAND Anaïs , SPINNLER Henry-Éric , SAULOU-BÉRION Claire
Published: September 2021

Acetic acid bacteria (AAB) can selectively oxidize diols into their corresponding hydroxyacids. Notably, they can convert 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) into 3-hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP), which is a promising building-block. Until now, 3-HP production with AAB is carried out in batch and using resting cells at high cell densities (up to 10 g L− 1 of cell dry weight). This approach is likely limited by detrimental accumulation of the intermediate 3-hydroxypropanal (3-HPA). Herein, we investigate an alternative implementation that allows highly efficient 3-HP production with lower cell densities of growing cells and that prevents 3-HPA accumulation. First, growth and 3-HP production of Acetobacter sp. CIP 58.66 were characterized with 1,3-PDO or glycerol as growth substrate. The strain was then implemented in a bioreactor, during a sequential process where it was first cultivated on glycerol, then the precursor 1,3-PDO was continuously supplied at a varying rate, easily controlled by the pH control. Different pH set points were tested (5.0, 4.5, and 4.0). This approach used the natural resistance of acetic acid bacteria to acidic conditions. Surprisingly, when pH was controlled at 5.0, the performances achieved in terms of titer (69.76 g3 − HP L− 1), mean productivity (2.80 g3 − HP L− 1 h− 1), and molar yield (1.02 mol3 − HP mol− 11,3−PDO) were comparable to results obtained with genetically improved strains at neutral pH. The present results were obtained with comparatively lower cell densities (from 0.88 to 2.08 g L− 1) than previously reported. This feeding strategy could be well-suited for future scale-up, since lower cell densities imply lower process costs and energy needs.
Exploring Polygenic Contributors to Subgroups of Comorbid Conditions in Atism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Klein Louis , D'Urso Shannon , Eapen Valsamma , Hwang Liang-Dar , Lin Ping-I
Published: September 2021

Background: Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have heterogeneous comorbid conditions. This study examined whether comorbid conditions in ASD are associated with polygenic risk scores (PRS) of ASD or PRS of comorbid conditions in non-ASD specific populations. Genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data were obtained from 1,386 patients with ASD from the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE) study. After excluding individuals with missing clinical information concerning comorbid conditions, a total of 707 patients were included in the study.

Methods: A total of 18 subgroups of comorbid conditions (’topics’) were identified using a machine learning algorithm, topic modeling. PRS for ASD were computed using a genome-wide association meta-analysis of 18,381 cases and 27,969 controls.

Results: From these 18 topics, Topic 6 (over-represented by allergies) ( p = 1.72x10 − 3 ) and Topic 17 (over-represented by sensory processing issues such as low pain tolerance) ( p = .037) were associated with PRS of ASD. For associated topics, we further assessed their associations with PRS of their corresponding comorbid conditions based on non-ASD specific populations. However, these two topics were not associated with the PRS of allergies and chronic pain disorder, respectively.

Limitations: Characteristics of the present AGRE sample and those samples used in the original GWAS for ASD, allergies, and chronic pain disorder, may differ due to significant clinical heterogeneity that exists in the ASD population. Additionally, the AGRE sample may be underpowered and therefore insensitive to weak PRS associations due to low relatively small sample size.

Conclusions: Findings imply that susceptibility genes of ASD may contribute more to the occurrence of allergies and sensory processing issues in individuals with ASD, compared with the susceptibility genes for their corresponding phenotypes. Since these comorbid conditions (i.e., allergies and pain sensation issues) cannot be attributable to the corresponding comorbidity-specific biological factors in non-ASD individuals, clinical management for these comorbid conditions may still depend on treatments for core symptoms of ASD.
Potential Anti-Proliferative, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Viral Components from Sinopodophyllum Hexandrum Explored Using Bio-Affinity Ultrafiltration with Multiple Drug Targets
Authors: Feng Huixia , Chen Guilin , Zhang Yongli , Guo Mingquan
Published: September 2021

Background: Sinopodophyllum hexandrum (S. hexandrum) is a typical Chinese herbal medicine with numerous components and remarkable pharmacological activities. However, the specific phytochemicals responsible for its anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects remain unexplored.Methods: The integrated analytical strategy combining bio-affinity ultrafiltration with multiple drug targets was developed to rapidly screen and identify bioactive ligands from S. hexandrum. The in vitro anti-proliferative and COX-2 inhibitory assays of bioactive ligands screened were further verified by sulforhodamine B (SRB) cell proliferation and cytotoxicity detection and COX-2 inhibitor screening kits, respectively. Molecular docking analysis was also implemented by the AutoDockTools 1.5.6 software.Results: 10, 7, 9 and 9 phytochemicals were screened out and identified as the potential Topo I, Topo II, COX-2 and ACE2 ligands, respectively. Hereinto, podophyllotoxin and quercetin with higher EF values displayed strong inhibitory effects on A549 and HT-29 cells comparable with etoposide and 5-FU. Furthermore, compared with indomethacin at 0.73 ± 0.07 mM, podophyllotoxin and kaempferol with higher EF values exerted stronger inhibitory effects with IC50 values at 0.36 ± 0.02 mM and 10.49 ± 0.61 mM, respectively. Additionally, the optimal binding sites and mode of action between bioactive ligands and multiple drug targets were determined by molecular docking. Wherein, isorhamnetin showed a stronger affinity to ACE2 with the binding energy of -5.72 kcal/mol and the IC50 value at 63.95 mM, lower than MLN-4760 (-4.27 kcal/mol and 738.62 mM). Conclusions: The integrative strategy combining multiple drug targets and bio-affinity ultrafiltration LC-MS in the present study showed very promising potential for the quick screening and identifying bioactive ligands in S. hexandrum for Topo I, Topo II, COX-2 and ACE2, and some bioactive compounds screened out from this work were verified with other in vitro assays, and even better than those positive drugs of interest. Based on these findings, we then first constructed an interacting network among multi-components and multi-targets. In this way, we showcased a quick and reliable experimental strategy for uncovering the underlying mechanism of the empirical traditional applications of S. hexandrum which could also provide valuable information for better understanding the therapeutic targets and therapeutic ligands of other herbal medicines.