bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short‐term natural gas consumption prediction based on wavelet transform and bidirectional long short‐term memory optimized by Bayesian network
Authors: Li Zhaoyang , Liu Liang , Qiao Weibiao
Published: June 2022

In the energy structure, natural gas is an important clean energy, and its consumption forecast is of great significance for energy policy formulation, pipeline network planning design, and peak shaving capacity determination. In the field of forecasting, wavelet transform (WT) is widely used to process time series, especially natural gas consumption. However, in the application of the WT, the wavelet's orders and levels are randomly fixed. To solve this problem, this study proposes a hybrid model, which is based on bidirectional long short‐term memory (BiLSTM). In addition, Bayesian networks are used to optimize the hyperparameters of BiLSTM. And the different wavelets' orders and levels are utilized to deal with the daily natural gas consumption (DNLGSCN). When each level of Coiflets wavelets' four and five orders are used to process the DNLGSCN, the fifth level of Coiflets wavelets' four and five orders have the highest prediction accuracy, respectively, which is 0.3318 and 0.1773, taking U1 as an example. Using Symflets wavelet to decompose the DNLGSCN also gives the same result. Compared with the decomposition method (e.g., ensemble empirical mode decomposition), the prediction performance of the above four wavelet decomposition methods is better. The main conclusions are that decomposing the DNLGSCN with the fifth level of Coiflets wavelet's five orders has the best prediction performance.
Construction of three‐dimensional marigold flower‐shaped Ni3V2O8 for efficient solid‐state supercapacitor applications
Authors: Haldar Krishna K. , Biswas Rathindranath , Arya Anil , Ahmed Imtiaz , Tanwar Shweta , Sharma Achchhe Lal
Published: June 2022

Development of binary spinel‐type mixed metal oxide and fabrication various morphological heterostructure nanomaterials having two distinct metals paid a wide attention in emerging field. Here, we prepared three‐dimensional (3D) marigold flower‐like Ni3V2O8 structure via a simple and facile technique for electrochemical supercapacitor applications. 3D Ni3V2O8 with thick petals as cathode materials exhibits high specific capacitance of 263.12 F g−1 at a scan rate of 0.5 mA cm−2. The high energy density of 32.98 W h kg−1 at power density of 189.96 W kg−1 is obtained by the cathode formation of marigold flower‐shaped Ni3V2O8, indicating excellent ions accessibility and large charge storage ability of Ni3V2O8 structure. It is also observed that even after 5000 cycles charging‐discharging profile analysis, Ni3V2O8 cathode retains 32% of its initial capacitance along with 100% Coulombic efficiency. This higher capacitance retention strengthens its adoption as a potential candidate for supercapacitor application.
Stable Isotopic studies of the herbivorous mammals from the Marginal Ganga Plain, India: implication for the palaeo‐environmental reconstruction
Authors: Maurya Sakshi , Ghosh Rupa , Sehgal Ramesh Kumar , Srivastava Pradeep , Shukla Uma Kant , Singh Abhishek Pratap , Sarangi Shushanta
Published: June 2022

The reconstruction of palaeo‐vegetation and dietary habitat from vertebrate molar fragments from the Marginal Ganga plains (MGP) are rare. This study from moderately preserved fossil dentitions of herbivorous mammals collected from the two stratigraphic sections of the MGP presents carbon and oxygen isotope compositions, and provides dietary habits of large mammals in the northern Indian Alluvial tract during the Late Pleistocene. Elephas namadicus recovered from the channelized gravel litho‐unit of the Jigni section, previously dated to be 56 ± 5 ka dominantly had a C4 dietary system. It exhibits a swampy grassland landscape rather than a savannah‐type forest landscape. Bovini fossil specimens recovered from the upper part of channelized gravel litho‐unit dated between 54 ± 10 and 51 ± 5 ka, also favour a C4 dietary system suggesting pure grazers living in open grassland habitat.
Global patterns of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in 2020
Authors: Mafra Allini , Laversanne Mathieu , Gospodarowicz Mary , Klinger Paulo , De Paula Silva Neimar , Piñeros Marion , Steliarova‐Foucher Eva , Bray Freddie , Znaor Ariana
Published: June 2022

We evaluated the global patterns of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in 2020 using the estimates of NHL incidence and mortality in 185 countries that are part of the GLOBOCAN 2020 database, developed by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). As well as new cases and deaths of NHL, corresponding age‐standardized (world) rates (ASR) of incidence and mortality per 100 000 person‐years were derived by country and world region. In 2020, an estimated 544 000 new cases of NHL were diagnosed worldwide, and approximately 260 000 people died from the disease. Eastern Asia accounted for a quarter (24.9%) of all cases, followed by Northern America (15.1%) and South‐Central Asia (9.7%). Incidence rates were higher in men than in women, with similar geographical patterns. While the incidence rates were highest in Australia and New Zealand, Northern America, Northern Europe and Western Europe (>10/100 000 for both sexes combined), the highest mortality rates (>3/100 000) were found in regions in Africa, Western Asia and Oceania. The large variations and the disproportionately higher mortality in low‐ and middle‐income countries can be related to the underlying prevalence and distribution of risk factors, and to the level of access to diagnostic and treatment facilities.
Associations between contraceptive availability and rate of subsequent legal abortions in Colombia: A historical cohort analysis
Authors: Quinteros Baumgart Cibel , Vivas María Mercedes , Ortiz Juliette , Westhoff Carolyn L. , Chavkin Wendy
Published: June 2022

Objective

To describe factors associated with subsequent abortions in Colombia and evaluate whether high‐efficacy contraceptive availability (IUD) post‐index abortion was associated with higher efficacy contraceptive initiation and fewer subsequent abortions within 2 years.

Methods

The study population comprised patients aged 15–44 years who underwent index abortion in 2017 at four clinics in Bogotá, Colombia. Using charts, we conducted a retrospective cohort study with 2‐year follow‐up (2017–2019) after the index abortion for outcomes of contraceptive initiation and subsequent abortion. We evaluated associations between demographic or clinical characteristics and outcomes using Pearson chi‐square and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Of 9175 patients with index abortion, 3409 (37.2%) initiated an intrauterine device (IUD) and 467 (5.1%) had a subsequent abortion within the study period (2017–2019). IUD availability (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.39–1.93) and insurance use (aOR, 5.03; 95% CI, 4.37–5.78) were associated with high‐efficacy contraceptive initiation; medication abortion was inversely associated (aOR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.22–0.27). Initiation of no (aOR, 4.94; 95% CI, 3.59–6.80) or moderate‐efficacy (injection: aOR, 4.21 [95% CI, 3.14–5.62]; oral contraceptive pill: aOR, 4.60 [95% CI, 3.21–6.59]) methods were associated with subsequent abortion.

Conclusion

Subsequent abortion is inversely associated with initiated postabortion contraceptive efficacy, which is modifiable on a systems level by improving access to effective postabortion contraception.
Value of the Copenhagen index in the diagnosis of malignant adnexal tumors: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yue Xiang , Yue Zhenni , Wang Ying , Dong Zhenjin , Yang Hua , Yue Sifeng
Published: June 2022

Ovarian cancer is a common gynecological malignant tumor. Early diagnosis is important for the prognosis of patients with ovarian cancer. To evaluate the accuracy of the Copenhagen Index (CPH‐I) in detecting malignant adnexal tumors and to compare the diagnostic accuracy of CPH‐I and the Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm (ROMA). PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were used to retrieve eligible studies. The overall sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and area under the (summary receiver operating characteristic) curve (AUC) were 0.81, 0.88, 6.61, 0.22, 30.43, and 0.91, respectively, in diagnosing malignant adnexal tumors. In addition, using ROMA, the sensitivity, specificity, and AUC were 0.83, 0.85, and 0.90, respectively. CPH‐I showed high accuracy in diagnosing malignant adnexal tumors, which could be an alternative method with similar efficacy to ROMA. CPH‐I was more advantageous in diagnosing adnexal tumors in postmenopausal women.
Application of a novel T1 retrospective quantification using internal references (T1‐REQUIRE) algorithm to derive quantitative T1 relaxation maps of the brain
Authors: Hasse Adam , Bertini Julian , Foxley Sean , Jeong Yong , Javed Adil , Carroll Timothy J.
Published: June 2022

Most MRI sequences used clinically are qualitative or weighted. While such images provide useful information for clinicians to diagnose and monitor disease progression, they lack the ability to quantify tissue damage for more objective assessment. In this study, an algorithm referred to as the T1‐REQUIRE is presented as a proof‐of‐concept which uses nonlinear transformations to retrospectively estimate T1 relaxation times in the brain using T1‐weighted MRIs, the appropriate signal equation, and internal, healthy tissues as references. T1‐REQUIRE was applied to two T1‐weighted MR sequences, a spin‐echo and a MPRAGE, and validated with a reference standard T1 mapping algorithm in vivo. In addition, a multiscanner study was run using MPRAGE images to determine the effectiveness of T1‐REQUIRE in conforming the data from different scanners into a more uniform way of analyzing T1‐relaxation maps. The T1‐REQUIRE algorithm shows good agreement with the reference standard (Lin's concordance correlation coefficients of 0.884 for the spin‐echo and 0.838 for the MPRAGE) and with each other (Lin's concordance correlation coefficient of 0.887). The interscanner studies showed improved alignment of cumulative distribution functions after T1‐REQUIRE was performed. T1‐REQUIRE was validated with a reference standard and shown to be an effective estimate of T1 over a clinically relevant range of T1 values. In addition, T1‐REQUIRE showed excellent data conformity across different scanners, providing evidence that T1‐REQUIRE could be a useful addition to big data pipelines.
Development and evaluation of time‐resolved fluorescent immunochromatographic assay for quantitative detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike antigen
Authors: Xu Buzhou , Tang Hao , Weng Yiming , Jones Valerie Sloane , Luo Shuhong , Cho Chih Yun , Lin Yongping , Fang Jianmin , Song Xuedong , Huang Ruo‐Pan
Published: June 2022

Background

The spread of COVID‐19 worldwide caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has necessitated efficient, sensitive diagnostic methods to identify infected people. We report on the development of a rapid 15‐minute time‐resolved fluorescent (TRF) lateral flow immunochromatographic assay for the quantitative detection of the SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein receptor‐binding domain (S1‐RBD).

Objectives

Our objective was to develop an efficient method of detecting SARS‐CoV‐2 within 15 min of sample collection.

Methods

We constructed and evaluated a portable, disposable lateral flow device, which detected the S1‐RBD protein directly in nasopharyngeal swab samples. The device emits a fluorescent signal in the presence of S1‐RBD, which can be captured by an automated TRF instrument.

Results

The TRF lateral flow assay signal was linear from 0 to 20 ng/ml and demonstrated high accuracy and reproducibility. When evaluated with clinical nasopharyngeal swabs, the assay was performed at >80% sensitivity, >84% specificity, and > 82% accuracy for detection of the S1‐RBD antigen.

Conclusion

The new S1‐RBD antigen test is a rapid (15 min), sensitive, and specific assay that requires minimal sample preparation. Critically, the assay correlated closely with PCR‐based methodology in nasopharyngeal swab samples, showing that the detected S1‐RBD antigen levels correlate with SARS‐CoV‐2 virus load. Therefore, the new TRF lateral flow test for S1‐RBD has potential application in point‐of‐care settings.
Therapy service delivery for children with disabilities during COVID‐19: Parent perceptions and implementation recommendations
Authors: Pinkerton Linzy M. , Murphy Ashley , Bruckner Ellie , Risser Heather
Published: June 2022

This study identifies challenges and advantages parents faced in navigating therapy service delivery for their child with disabilities during the COVID‐19 pandemic. As part of an online survey, 171 parents of children with disabilities answered four, free response questions regarding the therapy services their children received during the pandemic. A grounded theory approach was used to identify top challenges, barriers, advantages, and recommendations. Challenges included children's poor response to telehealth services, lack of parent training, and technological challenges. Advantages included fewer barriers to service access and increased family involvement. Parents largely recommended shorter, more frequent teletherapy sessions, and resuming in‐person services. To improve parent engagement in, and the sustainability of, services, parent feedback should inform service delivery design and implementation. Incorporating parent feedback about service delivery can decrease disparities in access and increase parent engagement in child services both generally, and during periods of service disruption.
Quantification of changes in myocardial T1* values with exercise cardiac MRI using a free‐breathing non‐electrocardiograph radial imaging
Authors: Guo Rui , Qi Haikun , Amyar Amine , Cai Xiaoying , Kucukseymen Selcuk , Haji‐Valizadeh Hassan , Rodriguez Jennifer , Paskavitz Amanda , Pierce Patrick , Goddu Beth , Thompson Richard B. , Nezafat Reza
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To develop and evaluate a free breathing non‐electrocardiograph (ECG) myocardial T1* mapping sequence using radial imaging to quantify the changes in myocardial T1* between rest and exercise (T1*reactivity) in exercise cardiac MRI (Ex‐CMR).

Methods

A free‐running T1* sequence was developed using a saturation pulse followed by three Look‐Locker inversion‐recovery experiments. Each Look‐Locker continuously acquired data as radial trajectory using a low flip‐angle spoiled gradient‐echo readout. Self‐navigation was performed with a temporal resolution of ∼100 ms for retrospectively extracting respiratory motion. The mid‐diastole phase for every cardiac cycle was retrospectively detected on the recorded electrocardiogram signal using an empirical model. Multiple measurements were performed to obtain mean value to reduce effects from the free‐breathing acquisition. Finally, data acquired at both mid‐diastole and end‐expiration are picked and reconstructed by a low‐rank plus sparsity constraint algorithm. The performance of this sequence was evaluated by simulations, phantoms, and in vivo studies at rest and after physiological exercise.

Results

Numerical simulation demonstrated that changes in T1* are related to the changes in T1; however, other factors such as breathing motion could influence T1* measurements. Phantom T1* values measured using free‐running T1* mapping sequence had good correlation with spin‐echo T1 values and was insensitive to heart rate. In the Ex‐CMR study, the measured T1* reactivity was 10% immediately after exercise and declined over time.

Conclusion

The free‐running T1* mapping sequence allows free‐breathing non‐ECG quantification of changes in myocardial T1* with physiological exercise. Although, absolute myocardial T1* value is sensitive to various confounders such as B1 and B0 inhomogeneity, quantification of its change may be useful in revealing myocardial tissue properties with exercise.
Functional genomics screening identifies aspartyl‐tRNA synthetase as a novel prognostic marker and a therapeutic target for gastric cancers
Authors: Liu Bin , Katoh Hiroto , Komura Daisuke , Yamamoto Asami , Ochi Mieko , Onoyama Takumi , Abe Hiroyuki , Ushiku Tetsuo , Seto Yasuyuki , Suo Jian , Ishikawa Shumpei
Published: June 2022

Efficient molecular targeting therapies for most gastric cancers (GCs) are currently lacking, despite GC being one of the most frequent and often devastating malignancies worldwide. Thus, identification of novel therapeutic targets for GC is in high demand. Recent advancements of high‐throughput nucleic acid synthesis methods combined with next‐generation sequencing (NGS) platforms have made it feasible to conduct functional genomics screening using large‐scale pooled lentiviral libraries aimed at discovering novel cancer therapeutic targets. In this study, we performed NGS‐based functional genomics screening for human GC cell lines using an originally constructed 6,399 shRNA library targeting all 2,096 human metabolism genes. Our screening identified aspartyl‐tRNA synthetase (DARS) as a possible candidate for a therapeutic target for GC. In‐house tissue microarrays containing 346 cases of GC combined with public datasets showed that patients with high expression levels of DARS protein exhibited more advanced clinicopathologic parameters and a worse prognosis, specifically among diffuse‐type GC patients. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments concretely evidenced that DARS inhibition achieved robust growth suppression of GC cells. Moreover, RNA sequencing of GC cell lines under shRNA‐mediated DARS knockdown suggested that DARS inhibition exerts its effect through the inactivation of multiple p‐ERK pathways. This MAPK‐related growth suppression by DARS inhibition would also be applicable to other cancers; thus, it is warranted to investigate the expression and clinical significance of DARS in a wide spectrum of malignancies. Taken together, NGS‐based high‐throughput pooled lentiviral screening showed DARS as a novel prognostic marker and a promising therapeutic target for GC. © 2022 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
A case of G6PD Utrecht associated with β‐thalassemia responding to splenectomy
Authors: Yang Kun , Liu Xiaodong , Chen Kai , Luo Shan , Kong Wenqiang , Huang Wenying , Xiao Jian
Published: June 2022

Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is an X‐linked genetic disease caused by a pathogenic G6PD mutation. An 8‐year‐old Chinese male child was investigated because of chronic nonspherocytic hemolytic anemia (CNSHA) associated with hepatosplenomegaly. Genetic analysis unraveled co‐inheritance of a hemizygous mutation c.1225C>T (p.Pro409Ser) in G6PD (G6PD Utrecht, previously reported only in The Netherlands) and heterozygote HBB mutation c.316‐197C>T (IVS‐Ⅱ‐654 C>T). Because IVS‐Ⅱ‐654 C>T on its own does not cause CNSHA, we believe that the clinical manifestations in this patient are essentially due to the G6PD c.1225C>T mutation. The boy gained transfusion independence after splenectomy.
Investigation of thermal and mechanical properties of polybenzoxazine obtained in an in situ polymerization with surface‐modified montmorillonite clay
Authors: Sundaramoorthy Malathi Devi , Durairajan Madhavan , Kadarkaraithangam Jeyasubramanian , Palani Vallinayagam
Published: June 2022

A novel class of polymeric composite was prepared using benzoxazine polymer (BXP) obtained in an in situ method followed by blending a surface‐functionalized montmorillonite (MMT) clay using 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES). Polymeric matrix used in this study was obtained by mixing bis phenol‐A, aniline and formaldehyde and heating at 150°C. Addition of 7.5 weight % of MMT clay functionalized with APTES formed a composite when heated with the precursors of benzoxazine polymer, forming composites (FeMMT.APTES@BXP3). The structural features of surface‐modified clay, benzoxazine polymer and their composites were confirmed through X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, Field Emission Scanning Elecron Microscope (FESEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray Analysis(EDAX) and elemental mapping studies. Thermal characteristics of the FeMMT.APTES@BXP3 revealed a remarkable thermal stability and retained higher solid mass (63.88%) when subjected to thermogravimetric analysis. Degradation ability of polymer and their composites was also assessed through differential thermogravimetric analysis. Promising hardness features of the polymeric composites were explored by performing Rockwell hardness (RHN) tests. The FeMMT.APTES@BXP3 specimen displayed the RHN as 79 in comparison to all other obtained composites. The composites prepared through this facile method may find remarkable applications in automobile components manufacturing and in high temperature appliances.
Methionine‐associated peptide α‐amidation is directed both to the N‐ and the C‐terminal amino acids
Authors: Sajapin Johann , Kulas Annemarie , Hellwig Michael
Published: June 2022

Peptide‐bound methionine may transfer oxidative damage from the thioether side chain to the peptide backbone, catalyzing decomposition in general and α‐amidation in particular. In the present study, we focused on the reactivity and reaction pathways of peptides. We synthesized model peptides comprising methionine or not and investigated their overall tendency towards decomposition and formation of specific products under conditions mimicking the cooking process at 100°C in buffered solution (pH 6.0) in the presence of redox‐active substances such as transition metal ions and reductones. Peptides containing methionine were more susceptible to α‐amidation under all oxidative conditions, and the products of N‐terminus‐directed α‐amidation were quantified. Exemplarily, after incubation in the presence of cupric sulfate, about 2.0 mol‐% of the overall decomposition of Z‐glycylmethionylglycine accounted for the formation of Z‐glycinamide, whereas it was below 0.1 mol‐% for Z‐glycylalanylglycine. Surprisingly and different from previous observations, C‐terminus‐directed α‐amidation was observed for the first time. From Z‐glycylmethionylglycine, the respective products were formed in higher amounts than the N‐terminus‐directed α‐amidation product Z‐glycinamide under all applied oxidation conditions. The preference of electron transfer from the amino nitrogen bound in the peptide bond directed to the C‐terminus may be ascribed to a sterically less demanding hexagonal 3‐electron‐2‐center intermediate during methionine‐catalyzed α‐amidation.
Improving teaching quality to compensate for socio‐economic disadvantages: A study of research dissemination across secondary schools in England
Authors: Riordan Sally
Published: June 2022

Since 2011, schools in England have received funds designated for improving the educational outcomes of students facing socio‐economic disadvantages (SED). In response to concerns regarding the effective expenditure of these funds, school leaders have been increasingly required to justify their spending decisions and to demonstrate how decisions are informed by research evidence. As a consequence, schools appear to be increasingly attempting to reduce SED attainment gaps by improving the quality of teaching across the school. This article reviews this endeavour to bring research evidence to bear on classroom practice. It draws upon data from a large qualitative study of interviews with 167 school staff and a survey at 285 schools. In addition, I report on a review of 100 school policy documents, a review of the evidence, and a study of examination data and teacher attitudes at one school. I argue that the mechanisms to put research into practice are failing in this case. A wide variety of practices are being justified by a small number of studies of questionable relevance. In some schools, attempts to be guided by research have not had the expected positive impact, which has caused weariness and frustration. I also present evidence that, in some contexts, certain kinds of improvements to teaching may widen SED attainment gaps. I conclude that there are bureaucratic and linguistic faults in the mechanisms to disseminate research evidence in this case and argue that education researchers should incorporate these mechanisms more comprehensively into their field of study.
Micromotor‐Assisted Keratinocytes Migration in a Floating Paper Chip
Authors: de Dios Andres Paula , Städler Brigitte
Published: June 2022

In vitro epidermis models are important to evaluate and study disease progression and possible dermal drug delivery. An in vitro epidermis model using floating paper chips as a scaffold for proliferation and differentiation of primary human keratinocytes is reported. The formation of the four main layers of the epidermis (i.e., basal, spinosum, granulose, and cornified layers) is confirmed. The development of a cornified layer and the tight junction formation are evaluated as well as the alterations of organelles during the differentiation process. Further, this in vitro model is used to assess keratinocyte migration. Finally, magnetic micromotors are assembled, and their ability to aid cell migration on paper chips is confirmed when a static magnetic field is present. Taken together, this attempt to combine bottom‐up synthetic biology with dermatology offers interesting opportunities for studying skin disease pathologies and evaluate possible treatments.
Microbiological quality of the water in collection areas and the tissue of Mytella falcata—Cananéia (SP, Brazil)
Authors: Rezende Karina Fernandes Oliveira , Garcia Andrea Vásquez , Campos Fatima Alessandra Deanna Buono , Barbieri Edison
Published: June 2022

Changes in fauna and abiotic factors in estuaries are a consequence of their exploitation; thus, bivalve mollusks, as they filter, are widely used as environmental bioindicators. The aim of this study was to analyze the existence of seasonal variation in the concentration of total coliforms (TC) and thermotolerant coliforms (Ct), in addition to correlating the data obtained with the salinity and temperature in collection areas of Mytella falcata and the soft tissue cultivated in the Estuarine Complex of Cananéia. Two biweekly samples of water and tissue were taken, for 12 consecutive months, in nine cultivation areas of M. falcata. The analysis of the water samples showed that the Fisheries Institute, Mosquiteiro, and Itapitangui have high TC densities, with respective annual averages of 772.22, 592.67, and 563.75 most probable number (MPN).100 ml−1. The highest concentrations of TC and Ct occurred in the summer, in most areas. There was a decrease in both TC and Ct with increasing salinity. However, there was an increase in Ct with increasing temperature. The soft tissue showed TC densities from 9 to 26 MPN.100 ml−1 and Ct densities from 6 to 14 MPN.100 ml−1, displaying the highest counts in the summer. Places where coliforms were found in high concentrations could indicate contamination, because Ct do not support higher salinities for a long time.

Practitioner Points

The general mean was 77.64 (total coliforms) and 39.35 (thermotolerant) MPN.100 ml−1.

Annual average (thermotolerant) exceeded the permitted Brazilian limit in five points.

Higher concentrations of total and thermotolerant coliforms occurred in the summer.

In mollusk's tissue, concentrations of thermotolerant were 6.30 to 26.16 MPN.100 g−1.

Coliforms' MPN varied with increasing salinity and temperature.
On the Origin of the Universe: Chaos or Cosmos?
Authors: Macek Wiesław M.
Published: June 2022

I would like to consider the Universe according to the standard Big Bang model, including various quantum models of its origin. In addition, using the theory of nonlinear dynamics, deterministic chaos, fractals, and multifractals I have proposed a new hypothesis, Macek (The Origin of the World: Cosmos or Chaos? Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University (UKSW) Scientific Editions, 2020). Namely, I have argued that a simple but possibly nonlinear law is important for the creation of the Cosmos at the extremely small Planck scale at which space and time originated. It is shown that by looking for order and harmony in the complex real world these modern studies give new insight into the most important philosophical issues beyond classical ontological principles, e.g., by providing a deeper understanding of the age-old philosophical dilemma (Leibniz, 1714): why does something exist instead of nothing? We also argue that this exciting question is a philosophical basis of matters that influence the meaning of human life in the vast Universe.
A Gallery Model for Affine Flag Varieties via Chimney Retractions
Authors: Milićević Elizabeth , Naqvi Yusra , Schwer Petra , Thomas Anne
Published: June 2022

This paper provides a unified combinatorial framework to study orbits in certain affine flag varieties via the associated Bruhat–Tits buildings. We first formulate, for arbitrary affine buildings, the notion of a chimney retraction. This simultaneously generalizes the two well-known notions of retractions in affine buildings: retractions from chambers at infinity and retractions from alcoves. We then present a recursive formula for computing the images of certain minimal galleries in the building under chimney retractions, using purely combinatorial tools associated to the underlying affine Weyl group. Finally, for Bruhat–Tits buildings in the function field case, we relate these retractions and their effect on minimal galleries to double coset intersections in the corresponding affine flag variety.
Effects of SARS-CoV‑2 infections on inpatient mortality of geriatric patients after proximal femoral fracture surgery
Authors: Zajonz Dirk , Vaitl Peter , Edel Melanie , Fuchs Oliver , Kübler Fabian , Schneider Peter , Roth Andreas , Prietzel Torsten
Published: June 2022

Background

The medical challenges caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV‑2) pose a tremendous burden on the healthcare system. This study aimed to analyze the effects of a SARS-CoV‑2 infections or disease progression on inpatient mortality of geriatric patients after proximal femoral fracture surgery.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted in all patients with a proximal femoral fracture surgically treated in an urban regional trauma center from 01/01/2020 to 01/31/2021. According to PCR test results detecting SARS-CoV‑2, the patients were divided into two groups (SARS-CoV‑2 positive vs. SARS-CoV‑2 negative). Patient data, disease progression data, and treatment-related information were evaluated for all patients. Statistical data analysis was performed using unpaired Student’s t test or non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

A total of 311 patients (women: 70.4%, age: 82.0 ± 11.0 years) were included in this study. Of these 3.9% (12/311) had a positive test result for SARS-CoV‑2. Significantly more deceased patients were found in the group tested positive for SARS-CoV‑2 (SARS-CoV‑2 positive: 41.7%, SARS-CoV‑2 negative: 5.4%, p < 0.001). In addition, the number of proximal femoral fracture associated deaths correlated with the number of positive test results performed in the Clinic. The length of stay of SARS-CoV‑2 COVID-19 survivors tended to be greater than in those who were tested negative (SARS-CoV‑2 COVID-19 positive: 15.6 ± 13.1 days, SARS-CoV‑2 COVID-19 negative: 11.5 ± 6.5 days, p = 0.683). Furthermore, a significant difference in age was found in SARS-CoV‑2 survivors and SARS-CoV‑2 decedents (deceased: 95.5 ± 7.5 years, alive: 83.5 ± 7.3 years, p = 0.020).

Conclusion

The study was conducted before the introduction of SARS-CoV‑2 vaccination. The results therefore refer to immune naive (unvaccinated) patients. In our study, more than 40% of all patients with proximal femoral fractures who tested positive for SARS-CoV‑2 died during hospitalization. An additional, critical factor in this respect was the age of the infected patients. Nonetheless, a positive correlation was demonstrated between the mortality rate and the number of positive SARS-CoV‑2 detections. Regarding the greater length of stay of patients tested positive for SARS-CoV‑2, the limited transfer options (further rehabilitation, skilled nursing facility) of the infected ones can be considered as causal. Particularly the vulnerable older patients are increasingly endangered by a combination of proximal femoral fracture and SARS-CoV‑2.
The simultaneous perception of self- and non-self-danger signals potentiates plant innate immunity responses
Authors: Pastor Victoria , Cervero Raquel , Gamir Jordi
Published: June 2022

Main conclusion

The simultaneous perception of endogenous and exogenous danger signals potentiates PAMP-triggered immunity in tomato and other downstream defence responses depending on the origin of the signal.

Abstract Plant cells perceive a pathogen invasion by recognising endogenous or exogenous extracellular signals such as Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs) or Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs). In particular, DAMPs are intracellular molecules or cell wall fragments passive or actively released to the apoplast, whose extracellular recognition by intact cells triggers specific immune signalling, the so-called DAMP-triggered immunity. The extracellular recognition of DAMPs and PAMPs leads to a very similar intracellular signalling, and this similarity has generated a biological need to know why plants perceive molecules with such different origins and with overlapped innate immunity responses. Here, we report that the simultaneous perception of DAMPs and a PAMP strengthens early and late plant defence responses. To this aim, we studied classical PTI responses such as the generation of ROS and MAPK phosphorylation, but we also monitored the biosynthesis of phytocytokines and performed a non-targeted metabolomic analysis. We demonstrate that co-application of the bacterial peptide flagellin with the DAMPs cyclic AMP or cellobiose amplifies PAMP-triggered immunity responses. Both co-applications enhanced the synthesis of phytocytokines, but only simultaneous treatments with cAMP strengthened the flagellin-dependent metabolomic responses. In addition, cAMP and cellobiose treatments induced resistance against the hemibiotrophic bacteria Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000. Overall, these results indicate that the complex mixture of DAMPs and PAMPs carries specific information that potentiates plant defence responses. However, downstream responses seem more specific depending on the composition of the mixture.
ADAS at work: assessing professional bus drivers’ experience and acceptance of a narrow navigation system
Authors: Johansson Mikael , Ekman Fredrick , Karlsson MariAnne , Strömberg Helena , Jonsson Joakim
Published: June 2022

Due to the argued benefits of passenger comfort, cost savings, and road safety, the bus sector is showing increasing interest in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Despite this growth of interest in ADAS and the fact that work tasks are sometimes complicated (especially docking at bus-stops which may occur several hundred times per shift), there has been little research into ADAS in buses. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop further knowledge of how professional bus drivers experience and accept an ADAS which can help them dock at bus-stops. The study was conducted on a public route in an industrial area with five different bus-stops. Ten professional bus drivers got to use a narrow navigation system (NNS) that could dock automatically at bus-stops. The participants’ experience and acceptance were investigated using objective as well as subjective data (during and after the test-drive) and data were collected using interviews, questionnaires, and video recordings. The participants indicated high levels of trust in and acceptance of the NNS and felt that it had multiple benefits in terms of cognitive and physical ergonomics, safety, and comfort. However, the relatively slow docking process (which was deemed comfortable) was also expected to negatively affect, e.g., timetabling, possibly resulting in high stress levels. Therefore, when investigating users’ acceptance of ADAS in a work context, it is important to consider acceptance in terms of the operation, use, and work system levels and how those levels interact and affect each other.
Using generalized additive models to decompose time series and waveforms, and dissect heart–lung interaction physiology
Authors: Enevoldsen Johannes , Simpson Gavin L. , Vistisen Simon T.
Published: June 2022

Common physiological time series and waveforms are composed of repeating cardiac and respiratory cycles. Often, the cardiac effect is the primary interest, but for, e.g., fluid responsiveness prediction, the respiratory effect on arterial blood pressure also convey important information. In either case, it is relevant to disentangle the two effects. Generalized additive models (GAMs) allow estimating the effect of predictors as nonlinear, smooth functions. These smooth functions can represent the cardiac and respiratory cycles’ effects on a physiological signal. We demonstrate how GAMs allow a decomposition of physiological signals from mechanically ventilated subjects into separate effects of the cardiac and respiratory cycles. Two examples are presented. The first is a model of the respiratory variation in pulse pressure. The second demonstrates how a central venous pressure waveform can be decomposed into a cardiac effect, a respiratory effect and the interaction between the two cycles. Generalized additive models provide an intuitive and flexible approach to modelling the repeating, smooth, patterns common in medical monitoring data.
Absence of other and disruption of self: an interpretative phenomenological analysis of the meaning of loneliness in the context of life in a religious community
Authors: Motta Valeria , Larkin Michael
Published: June 2022

Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) is an idiographic approach to qualitative research. It is widely used in psychologically-informed studies which aim to understand the meaning and context of specific experiences. In this paper, we provide some background and introduction to the principles and processes underpinning IPA research. We extend this via a practical example, reporting on selected analyses from a study which explores the phenomenology and meaning of loneliness, through interviews conducted with a group of religious women. Through our observations on the complex role of absence for loneliness, we show that IPA can be a powerful tool for exploring and understanding the meaning of salient experiences. We reflect on the significance of the results for advancing theories of loneliness; and on the capacity of the IPA approach to provide researchers with an important and useful phenomenological perspective, through its emphasis on context, and its commitment to integrating convergent and divergent claims.
Carbon allocation and tree diversity: shifts in autotrophic respiration in tree mixtures compared to monocultures
Authors: Kunert Norbert , Brändle Johannes , El-Madany Tarek S.
Published: June 2022

Mixed species forests are known to have a higher gross primary productivity (GPP) and net primary productivity (NPP) than forests containing only one single tree species. Trees growing in mixtures are characterized by higher autotrophic respiration (Ra), this results in a lower carbon use efficiency of mixed species forests compared to monocultures. The pathway responsible for the high quantities of carbon lost through respiratory pathways is still unclear. Here, we present the only existing measurements evaluating tree mixture effects based on stem CO2 efflux (Estem), scaled to woody respiration (Rw) on stand level. We conducted predawn Estem measurements on five tree species in an experimental tree plantation in Central Panama. Estem was scaled to the entire plot level woody respiration (Rw). Annual Rw was on average 0.25 ± 0.08 Mg C ha− 1 in the monocultures and 0.28 ± 0.10 Mg C ha− 1 in mixed species stands. In mixtures, annual Ra was more than three times higher than in monocultures. As mean Rw was almost constant across the mixture types and Ra varied largely, leads to the conclusion that mixed species plots allocate a higher amount of carbon toward respiratory processes in leaves and roots. This was supported by no significant differences in the mixture effects on the growth respiration relationship.
Factors Influencing Successful Coping among Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Personnel: Recruiting for Resilience – A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Craven H. P. , Hallmark M. , Holland F. , Maratos F. A.
Published: June 2022

Successful coping is important for staff well-being, retention and reducing absenteeism, especially for those employed in high emotional labour jobs such as crime scene investigation (CSI). Antecedents of successful coping can include self-efficacy, locus of control, optimism, resilience, and self-esteem. However, a dearth of literature exists attaining to the importance of emotion-regulation and mindfulness for successful coping in these roles, despite evidence revealing that both are conducive to better well-being. Additionally, few studies with CSI personnel have employed a mixed methods approach, which enables exploration of lived experiences in addition to survey analysis. Here, we recruited 84 CSI employees and 88 students undertaking a degree enabling employment within CSI, to comprehensively explore factors predicting successful coping. 75 CSI employees and 88 students took part in the quantitative aspect, where questionnaire data pertaining to the above well-being factors, as well as depression, anxiety and stress, were collected. In the concurrent qualitative aspect of the project, nine officers employed in CSI roles were recruited. Semi-structured interviews more deeply explored experiences of resilience and coping, including how the CSI personnel managed their occupation. Quantitative analyses revealed that, for CSI personnel, the greatest predictors of successful coping were resilience and emotional regulation. Compared to students, CSI personnel further reported greater self-esteem, optimism, coping self-efficacy, mindfulness and resilience; and fewer difficulties in emotion regulation, depression, anxiety and stress. Inductive qualitative analyses also revealed resilience and emotion regulation to be key coping factors; but additionally, that finding meaning in work/collegiate support enabled successful coping. Potential implications of findings are discussed and include pre-employment screening for emotion regulation and resilience, and inclusion of such in CSI training/CPD curricula.
Mode-locked ytterbium-doped fiber laser with zinc phthalocyanine thin film saturable absorber
Authors: Soboh Rawan S. M. , Al-Masoodi Ahmed H. H. , Erman Fuad N. A. , Al-Masoodi Abtisam H. H. , Nizamani Bilal , Arof Hamzah , Apsari Retna , Wadi Harun Sulaiman
Published: June 2022

A stable mode-locked laser was demonstrated using a newly developed zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) thin film as passive saturable absorber (SA) in ytterbium-doped fiber laser (YDFL). The ZnPc thin film was obtained using a casting method and then inserted between the two fiber ferrules of a YDFL ring cavity to generate mode-locked pulses. The resulting pulsed laser operated at a wavelength of 1034.5 nm having a repetition rate of 3.3 MHz. At pump power of 277 mW, the maximum output power and pulse energy are achieved at 4.92 mW and 1.36 nJ, respectively. ZnPc has a high chemical and photochemical stability, and its significance for use as a potential SA in a mode-locked laser is reported in this work.

Graphical Abstract
Combining metabolic phenotype determination with metabolomics and transcriptional analyses to reveal pathways regulated by hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2
Authors: Rabe Philipp , Gehmlich Mareike , Peters Anna , Krumbholz Petra , Nordström Anders , Stäubert Claudia
Published: June 2022

Background

The adaptation of cellular metabolism is considered a hallmark of cancer. Oncogenic signaling pathways support tumorigenesis and cancer progression through the induction of certain metabolic phenotypes associated with altered regulation of key metabolic enzymes. Hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2 (HCA2) is a G protein-coupled receptor previously shown to act as a tumor suppressor. Here, we aimed to unveil the connection between cellular metabolism and HCA2 in BT-474 cells. Moreover, we intend to clarify how well this metabolic phenotype is reflected in transcriptional changes and metabolite levels as determined by global metabolomics analyses.

Methods

We performed both, siRNA mediated knockdown of HCA2 and stimulation with the HCA2-specific agonist monomethyl fumarate. Seahorse technology was used to determine the role of HCA2 in BT-474 breast cancer cell metabolism and its potential to induce a switch in the metabolic phenotype in the presence of different energy substrates. Changes in the mRNA expression of metabolic enzymes were detected with real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) metabolic profiling was used to determine changes in metabolite levels.

Results

Knockdown or stimulation of HCA2 induced changes in the metabolic phenotype of BT474 cells dependent on the availability of energy substrates. The presence of HCA2 was associated with increased glycolytic flux with no fatty acids available. This was reflected in the increased mRNA expression of the glycolytic enzymes PFKFB4 and PKM2, which are known to promote the Warburg effect and have been described as prognostic markers in different types of cancer. With exogenous palmitate present, HCA2 caused elevated fatty acid oxidation and likely lipolysis. The increase in lipolysis was also detectable at the transcriptional level of ATGL and the metabolite levels of palmitic and stearic acid.

Conclusions

We combined metabolic phenotype determination with metabolomics and transcriptional analyses and identified HCA2 as a regulator of glycolytic flux and fatty acid metabolism in BT-474 breast cancer cells. Thus, HCA2, for which agonists are already widely used to treat diseases such as psoriasis or hyperlipidemia, may prove useful as a target in combination cancer therapy.
Suicide risk in caregivers of people with dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Solimando Luisa , Fasulo Marta , Cavallero Stefano , Veronese Nicola , Smith Lee , Vernuccio Laura , Bolzetta Francesco , Dominguez Ligia J. , Barbagallo Mario
Published: June 2022

Background

Interest in physical and mental health outcomes in caregivers of patients with dementia is increasing. However, there is limited data available on the prevalence of suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, and suicide rates among caregivers of those with dementia. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review these outcomes to address this gap in the literature and thus provide information to inform future policy and intervention for the benefit of caregivers of dementia patients.

Methods

We searched several databases from inception to the 10thNovember 2021, for studies investigating suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, and suicide rates of caregivers of patients with dementia. We report data regarding suicidal ideation as prevalence, with the 95% confidence intervals (CIs), applying a random-effect model; since less than three studies were available for suicide attempt and suicide, these data are reported descriptively.

Results

Among 194 articles, eight comprising 1,209 informal caregivers of people with dementia (mean age: 63.9 years, 74% females) were included. The prevalence of suicide ideation was 32.32% (95% CI: 16.01–48.64%;I2 = 98.5%,p < 0.0001). The prevalence of suicide ideation varied between studies from 4.69% to 77.78%. Two studies reported the rate of suicidal attempt in caregivers of patients with dementia, with the prevalence ranging from 5.9% to 16.1%. One study reported one in 17 caregivers of patients with dementia died by suicide.

Conclusions

The prevalence of suicide ideation is high, affecting several caregivers of patients with dementia. These findings suggest intervention and/or policy are urgently needed to address suicidal behavior in this at-risk population.