bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dilution or enrichment: the effects of flood on pollutants in urban rivers
Authors: Zhou Min , Wu Siqi , Zhang Zhaolin , Aihemaiti Yuemaierjiang , Yang Liu , Shao Ying , Chen Zhongli , Jiang Yanxue , Jin Chao , Zheng Guocan
Published: July 2022

Background

Flood events increase the risk of sediment erosion and hence the release of particle-bound pollutants besides other processes that can be observed during such events like transportation, lateral distribution and other. Macropollutants, such as acids, salts, nutrients, and natural organic matter, are usually diluted by flooding, while the effect of floods on micropollutants is still unclear. To fill this gap, Qingshui Stream, a tributary of the Jialing River in the city of Chongqing that suffered 75,000 m3·s−1 flood in August 2020 was selected in the current study to clarify effects of flood-induced pollution transportation. 14 surface water samples and 14 sediment samples were collected to analyze the occurrence of micropollutants (including 21 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), 34 organophosphorus pesticides (OPPs) and 3 estrogenic compounds) before, during and after the flood. Finally, the environmental risks were evaluated by risk quotient (RQ).

Results

The concentrations of total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN), chemical oxygen demand (COD) in the surface water decreased from upstream to downstream, and the amounts were diluted by flooding from 0.08 to 0.05 mg·L−1 for TP, from 0.06 to 0.02 mg·L−1 for TN and from 132 to 27 mg·L−1 for COD, respectively. The concentration of estrogenic compound was up to 90 ng·g−1, which was reduced to be lower than the limit of detection during flood. Alpha-endosulfan, delta-BHC, mirex, dichlorvos, phosdrin, thionazine, tetraethyl pyrophosphate, diazinon, methyl parathion, malathion, chlorpyrifos, famphur, and EPN were diluted by flooding, i.e., the concentration of delta-BHC reduced from 6.67 to 0.09 ng·g−1; whereas, pp'-DDD, heptachlor epoxide, o,o,o-triethylphosphorothioate, dimethoate, rabon and fensulfothion were enriched after the flood. The environmental risk was observed to be mainly arise from the presence of OPPs, which increased after flooding. The RQ values of OPPs and OCPs increased after the flood, and the potential environmental risk of OPPs accounted for the majority portion of the risk.

Conclusions

The concentrations of macropollutants in surface water and sediments, and 14 micropollutants in sediments were diluted, while pesticides such as pp′-DDD, heptachlor epoxide, o,o,o-triethylphosphorothioate, dimethoate, rabon and fensulfothion were enriched after the flood. These results suggested management on urban river should focus on potential risk of OPPs. The current study therefore could provide scientific evidence and regulatory reference for urban river ecosystem protection.
Exploring bridge symptoms in HIV-positive people with comorbid depressive and anxiety disorders
Authors: Liu Xiaoning , Wang Hui , Zhu Zheng , Zhang Liyuan , Cao Jing , Zhang Lin , Yang Hongli , Wen Huan , Hu Yan , Chen Congzhou , Lu Hongzhou
Published: July 2022

Background

The prevalence of comorbid depressive and anxiety disorders in people living with HIV (PLWH) is high. However, it is unclear which symptom is the bridge symptom between depression and anxiety in PLWH. This study aimed to develop symptom networks for depression and anxiety and explore the bridge symptoms and interconnectedness between these disorders in PLWH with comorbid depressive and anxiety disorders.

Methods

A multisite, hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2020 to November 2021. Depression and anxiety were measured with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. We visualized the symptom network using theqgraphpackage and computed the bridge expected influence of each node. The GLASSO layout was used to generate undirected association networks.

Results

A total of 2016 individuals were included in the analysis. In the anxiety cluster, “not feeling relaxed” had the highest bridge expected influence and strength (rbridge expected influence = 0.628,rstrength = 0.903). In the depression cluster, “not feeling cheerful” was identified as having a high bridge expected influence (rbridge expected influence = 0.385). “Not feeling cheerful” and “not feeling relaxed” were the strongest edges across the depression and anxiety clusters (r = 0.30 ± 0.02).

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals should take note when PLWH report severe bridge symptoms. To enhance the levels of perceived cheerfulness and relaxation, positive psychology interventions could be implemented.
Variations of root and canal morphology of mandibular second molars in Chinese individuals: a cone-beam computed tomography study
Authors: Yang Lin , Han Jingchao , Wang Qibao , Wang Zhuoran , Yu Xijiao , Du Yi
Published: July 2022

Background

The mandibular second molars demonstrate variations on root and canal morphology. The aim of this study was to investigate all the root canal morphology of mandibular second molars and analyze the morphological variations in patients by gender and age in a Chinese population use CBCT imaging.

Methods

Cone-beam computed tomographic images of 1200 bilateral mandibular second molars were obtained from 600 patients (300 females and 300 males) who required a preoperative assessment for implant surgery, surgical removal of impacted teeth, orthodontic treatment, surgery of maxillofacial tumour and cysts or LeFort I osteotomy. CBCT images were divided into 5 groups according to age: “15–24 years”, “25–34 years”, “35–44 years”, “45–54 years” and “≥ 55 years”; and 2 groups by gender: “females” and “males”. The following information were recorded: the number of roots and canals and their morphology, the frequency and configuration of C-shaped canals by gender, age and position (left and right). The chi-square test was used to analyse differences between groups. P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Of the 1200 teeth, 61% had two separate roots located mesiodistally, 35.6% had one C-shaped root. The 45.3% teeth had three canals in two-rooted mandibular second molars. The mesial root showed a Vertucci type II configuration in 28.9% cases followed by type IV(24.4%). While the distal root showed a significant higher prevalence of type I configuration in 95.6%. In the examined 1200 teeth, 430 teeth (35.8%) had C-shaped root canals. The prevalence of C-shaped root canal systems was significantly higher in females (42.5%) than in males (29.1%) (P = 0.000), and did not differ with age (P = 0.126). The 80.4% C-shaped canals were bilateral (P = 0.000) and did not differ with side (left and right) (P = 0.758).

Conclusions

The most commonly observed root morphology for the mandibular second molars was 2 separate roots with three canals.The prevalence of C-shaped root canal is 35.8% and is more higher in females than in males.
Prevalence and determinants of depression, anxiety and stress among psychiatric nurses in Ghana: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Opoku Agyemang Sampson , Ninnoni Jerry Paul , Enyan Nancy Innocentia Ebu
Published: July 2022

Background

The job demand and stress associated with the nursing profession expose nurses to an increased risk of psychiatric morbidities such as anxiety and depression. This study assessed the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among psychiatric nurses in Ghana.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in three psychiatric hospitals in Ghana between March 2020 and May 2021. Simple random sampling technique were used to select 311 psychiatric nurses. Beck’s Depression Inventory, Beck’s Anxiety Inventory and Perceived Stress Scale were used to assess depression, anxiety and stress, respectively. Data were analysed using SPSS version 23.0.

Results

The results showed that 19.6% of psychiatric nurses experienced mild to severe depression, 27% mild to severe anxiety and 42% mild to high stress. Regression analysis showed that participants with a diploma qualification had higher odds of having moderate depression compared to those with a master’s degree. In terms of stress, participants with a diploma qualification were 29.6% less likely to have moderate stress compared to those with a master’s degree. Those with a bachelor’s degree were 7.1% less likely to have moderate stress compared to those with a master’s degree.

Conclusion

Psychiatric nurses experience depression, anxiety and stress to varying degrees. Education level was identified as a determinant of depression, anxiety and stress. Therefore, preventive strategies should be designed to reduce the risk of these conditions.
Constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans with a presumptive etiology of preceding feline herpesvirus infection in a cat
Authors: Hsieh Pin-I , Chen Hui-Wen , Yeh Hsiao-Ning , Lam Man-Cham , Lo Pei-Ying , Huang Wei-Hsiang , Shih Cheng-Hsin , Lin Chung-Hui
Published: July 2022

Background

Bronchiolar disorders are rarely recognized in cats. Constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans is characterized by concentric peribronchiolar fibrosis and inflammation of the bronchioles, but the underlying causes remain poorly understood in current small animal medicine.

Case presentation

A 9-year-old cat presented with paroxysmal tachypnea, infrequent cough and persistent labor breathing. Thoracic radiography showed lung hyperinflation and bronchointerstitial pattern, and pulmonary function assessment revealed flow limitation in the late-expiratory phase and poor response to short-acting bronchodilator. Dorsally distributed subpleural ground glass opacities with distinct margin and tree-in-bud opacities were observed on lung high-resolution computed tomography. The cat underwent bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and showed severe neutrophilic inflammation. Feline herpesvirus was the only pathogen detected in the BAL fluid. Multiple therapeutic attempts were unsuccessful and the cat died 8 weeks after the initial presentation. Necropsy revealed the infiltration of inflammatory cells, obstruction of the bronchiolar lumen, and submucosal concentric fibrosis suggesting constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans. Combining the pre- and post-mortem findings, as well as the time from symptom onset or BAL to necropsy, constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans was possibly triggered by a preceding feline herpesvirus infection in this case.

Conclusions

The history of nonvaccinated status, lower airway neutrophilic inflammation, and presence of feline herpesvirus in the BAL fluid without coexistence of other pathogens led to the presumption that constrictive bronchiolitis obliterans was induced by a preceding feline herpesvirus infection in this cat. The pathological changes of bronchiolitis obliterans induced by a preceding feline herpesvirus infection could be different from that of cats with acute herpesvirus pneumonia, such as intranuclear inclusions would disappear over time and were no longer found 7–10 days after inoculation. The presence of patchy distribution of subpleural ground glass opacities on lung high-resolution computed tomography should raise the suspicion of peribronchiolar fibrosis. Clinical awareness of bronchiolar disorders as a differential diagnosis is important in cats with lung hyperinflation and labored breathing who show poor reversibility to bronchodilator.
Decline in forced vital capacity in subjects with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease in the SENSCIS trial compared with healthy reference subjects
Authors: Maher Toby M. , Bourdin Arnaud , Volkmann Elizabeth R. , Vettori Serena , Distler Jörg H. W. , Alves Margarida , Stock Christian , Distler Oliver
Published: July 2022

Background

The forced vital capacity (FVC) of healthy individuals depends on their age, sex, ethnicity and height. Systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) is characterised by loss of FVC. We compared FVC values in the subjects with SSc-ILD in the SENSCIS trial of nintedanib versus placebo with values from hypothetical matched healthy references.

Methods

The SENSCIS trial enrolled subjects with SSc with first non-Raynaud symptom in the prior ≤ 7 years, extent of fibrotic ILD on HRCT ≥ 10%, and FVC ≥ 40% predicted. FVC at baseline and decline in FVC over 52 weeks were compared with FVC values in hypothetical healthy reference subjects matched 1:1 to the subjects in the trial for age, sex, ethnicity and height, determined using equations published by the European Respiratory Society Global Lung Function Initiative.

Results

At baseline, mean (SD) FVC was 2460 (737) mL in the nintedanib group (n = 287) compared with 3403 (787) mL in the hypothetical matched healthy references. Mean (SD) FVC was 2544 (817) mL in the placebo group (n = 286) compared with 3516 (887) mL in the hypothetical matched healthy references. Mean (SE) changes in FVC at week 52, i.e., age-related loss of lung function, in the hypothetical healthy references matched to the nintedanib and placebo groups, respectively, were − 26.3 (0.5) mL and − 25.8 (0.5) mL. The difference in the change in FVC at week 52 between the nintedanib group and the hypothetical healthy references was 26.6 mL (95% CI: 1.2, 52.0; p = 0.04). The difference in the change in FVC at week 52 between the placebo group and the hypothetical healthy references was 77.5 mL (95% CI: 51.4, 103.7; p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Subjects with SSc-ILD in the SENSCIS trial had impaired lung function at baseline and experienced further deterioration over 52 weeks. The decline in FVC in the placebo group was four-fold greater than in a hypothetical group of matched healthy references, whereas the decline in FVC in patients who received nintedanib was two-fold greater than in hypothetical healthy references. These data highlight the clinical relevance of the slowing of FVC decline provided by nintedanib.

Trial registration Registered 5 November 2015, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02597933.
Temperature-responsive regulation of the fermentation of hypocrellin A by Shiraia bambusicola (GDMCC 60438)
Authors: Wen Yongdi , Liao Baosheng , Yan Xiaoxiao , Wu Zhenqiang , Tian Xiaofei
Published: July 2022

Background

Hypocrellin A (HA) is a perylene quinone pigment with high medicinal value that is produced by Shiraia bambusicola Henn. (S. bambusicola) and Hypocrella bambusae (Berk. & Broome) Sacc. (Ascomycetes) with great potential in clinical photodynamic therapy. Submerged cultivation of S. bambusicola is a popular technique for HA production. However, there is not much research on how temperature changes lead to differential yields of HA production.

Results

The temperature regulation of submerged fermentation is an efficient approach to promote HA productivity. After a 32 °C fermentation, the HA content in the mycelia S. bambusicola (GDMCC 60438) was increased by more than three- and fivefold when compared to that at 28 °C and 26 °C, respectively. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis showed that the regulation of the expression of transcription factors and genes essential for HA biosynthesis could be induced by high temperature. Among the 496 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) explicitly expressed at 32 °C, the hub genes MH01c06g0046321 and MH01c11g0073001 in the coexpression network may affect HA biosynthesis and cytoarchitecture, respectively. Moreover, five genes, i.e., MH01c01g0006641, MH01c03g0017691, MH01c04g0029531, MH01c04g0030701 and MH01c22g0111101, potentially related to HA synthesis also exhibited significantly higher expression levels. Morphological observation showed that the autolysis inside the mycelial pellets tightly composted intertwined mycelia without apparent holes.

Conclusions

The obtained results provide an effective strategy in the submerged fermentation of S. bambusicola for improved HA production and reveal an alternative regulatory network responsive to the biosynthesis metabolism of HA in response to environmental signals.
Total laparoscopic radical antegrade modular pancreato-splenectomy with left-posterior superior mesenteric artery first-approach for distal pancreatic cancer: step-by-step technique with a surgical case report (with video)
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Khiem , Nguyen Ham Hoi , Luong Tuan Hiep , Dang Kim Khue , Le Van Duy , Trinh Hong Son , Tran Duc Dung
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Left-sided pancreatic cancers are uncommon but seem more aggressive than tumors of pancreatic head. Radical antegrade modular pancreato-splenectomy (RAMPS) was proved to have safe and effective advantages while comparing with standard retrograde pancreato-splenectomy (SRPS) in recent systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses. Laparoscopic SMA first-approach RAMPS was recently proceeded with optimistic perioperative outcomes.

Case presentation

Our patient is a 67-year-old female with a medical history of diabetes and hypertension, recruited because of upper left quadrant abdominal pain. She was referred for pancreato-splenectomy because of a 3-cm-sized mass in distal pancreas. We use 5 trocars and the patient placed in a Trendelenburg position. The retroperitoneum is opened at the left-posterior side of the meso-pancreato-duodenum along to the inframesocolic space, so that the anterior surface of the aorta (AO), inferior vena cave (IVC), left renal vein (LRV), left adrenal grand (LAG), and kidney are completely exposed. The inferior border of the pancreas had been dissected and separated from the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) below the pancreatic isthmus, removed the lymph nodes (LNs) groups 14v and 17. Then, dissect of LNs groups 7,8,9,11p,12 en bloc at the superior side of the pancreas. Dissection of LNs group 14p, d or SMA LNs after transecting the pancreas. The operation time was 240 min, the estimated blood loss was 200 ml. With no postoperative complications as well as no diarrhea, the patient was discharged on the POD10 uneventfully. Pathological result: pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with T2N1 staging and negative margin (R0).

Conclusions

This technique was safe and effective to perform precise and complete lymphadenectomy and negative posterior resection in total laparoscopic left-posterior SMA first-approach RAMPS for distal pancreatic cancer.
Indigenous knowledge system associated with the uses of insects for therapeutic or medicinal purposes in two main provinces of Burkina Faso, West Africa
Authors: Ouango Mamadou , Romba Rahim , Drabo Samuel Fogné , Ouedraogo Noufou , Gnankiné Olivier
Published: July 2022

Background

Some insects are harmful to humans, plants and animals, but some of them can also be a source of proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals and be of therapeutic value. The therapeutic potential requires that medicinal insects and their derived products need to be scrutinized. This study highlights the indigenous knowledge related to their use of medicinal insects in peri-urban and urban areas of Burkina Faso.

Methods

The survey was carried out among 60 traditional healers spread across two phytogeographical zones of Burkina Faso. The questionnaire focused on medicinal insects used by experienced traditional healers. Chi-square tests and principal component analysis were performed to test for significant differences regarding knowledge of how insects in phytogeographically different areas were used therapeutically in connection with different disease categories.

Results

A total of 19 species of medicinal insects belonging to 6 orders were cited in connection with treatments of at least 78 pathologies and symptoms. Most frequently mentioned was gastroenteritis. Our study showed that 48.78% of the insects and their products were associated with 46 plant species for the treatment of pathologies. In addition, honey, beeswax and nests were the most widely insect products used.

Conclusion

The current study allows us to identify medicinal insects as well as their products used in the treatment of pathologies and symptoms, suggesting the presence of a considerable diversity of therapeutically important insect species. These insects are used alone and/or with their products but often in association with medicinal plants. The results constitute a useful database for future studies of medicinal insects in central and western parts of Burkina Faso.
The association between intrapartum interventions and immediate and ongoing breastfeeding outcomes: an Australian retrospective population-based cohort study
Authors: Andrew Madison S. , Selvaratnam Roshan J. , Davies-Tuck Miranda , Howland Kim , Davey Mary-Ann
Published: July 2022

Background

The use of intrapartum interventions is becoming increasingly common globally. Interventions during birth, including caesarean section (CS), epidural analgesia and synthetic oxytocin infusion, can be important in optimizing obstetric care, but have the potential to impact breastfeeding. This study aimed to identify whether women who have certain intrapartum interventions have greater odds of unfavourable breastfeeding outcomes, both the immediate post-partum period and in the months after birth.

Methods

This was a population-based cohort study of singleton livebirths at ≥37 weeks’ gestation between 2010 and 2018 in Victoria, Australia using routinely-collected state-wide data from the Victorian Perinatal Data Collection (VPDC) and the Child Development Information System (CDIS). The interventions included were pre-labour CS, in-labour CS, epidural analgesia, and synthetic oxytocin infusion (augmentation and/or induction of labour). Outcomes were formula supplementation in hospital, method of last feed before hospital discharge and breastfeeding status at 3-months and 6-months. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models adjusting for potential confounders were employed.

Results

In total, 599,191 women initiated breastfeeding. In-labour CS (aOR 1.96, 95%CI 1.93,1.99), pre-labour CS (aOR 1.75, 95%CI 1.72,1.77), epidural analgesia (aOR 1.45, 95%CI 1.43,1.47) and synthetic oxytocin infusion (aOR 1.24, 95%CI 1.22,1.26) increased the odds of formula supplementation in hospital. Long-term breastfeeding data was available for 105,599 infants. In-labour CS (aOR 0.79, 95%CI 0.76,0.83), pre-labour CS (aOR 0.73, 95%CI 0.71,0.76), epidural analgesia (aOR 0.77, 95%CI 0.75,0.80) and synthetic oxytocin infusion (aOR 0.89, 95%CI 0.86–0.92) decreased the odds of exclusive breastfeeding at 3-months post-partum, which was similar at 6-months. There was a dose-response effect between number of interventions received and odds of each unfavourable breastfeeding outcome.

Conclusion

Common intrapartum interventions are associated with less favourable breastfeeding outcomes, both in hospital and in the months after birth. This confirms the importance of only undertaking interventions when necessary. When interventions are used intrapartum, an assessment and identification of women at increased risk of early discontinuation of breastfeeding has to be performed. Targeted breastfeeding support for women who have intrapartum interventions, when they wish to breastfeed, is important.
Longitudinal associations of DNA methylation and sleep in children: a meta-analysis
Authors: Sammallahti Sara , Koopman-Verhoeff M. Elisabeth , Binter Anne-Claire , Mulder Rosa H. , Cabré-Riera Alba , Kvist Tuomas , Malmberg Anni L. K. , Pesce Giancarlo , Plancoulaine Sabine , Heiss Jonathan A. , Rifas-Shiman Sheryl L. , Röder Stefan W. , Starling Anne P. , Wilson Rory , Guerlich Kathrin , Haftorn Kristine L. , Page Christian M. , Luik Annemarie I. , Tiemeier Henning , Felix Janine F. , Raikkonen Katri , Lahti Jari , Relton Caroline L. , Sharp Gemma C. , Waldenberger Melanie , Grote Veit , Heude Barbara , Annesi-Maesano Isabella , Hivert Marie-France , Zenclussen Ana C. , Herberth Gunda , Dabelea Dana , Grazuleviciene Regina , Vafeiadi Marina , Håberg Siri E. , London Stephanie J. , Guxens Mònica , Richmond Rebecca C. , Cecil Charlotte A. M.
Published: July 2022

Background

Sleep is important for healthy functioning in children. Numerous genetic and environmental factors, from conception onwards, may influence this phenotype. Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation have been proposed to underlie variation in sleep or may be an early-life marker of sleep disturbances. We examined if DNA methylation at birth or in school age is associated with parent-reported and actigraphy-estimated sleep outcomes in children.

Methods

We meta-analysed epigenome-wide association study results. DNA methylation was measured from cord blood at birth in 11 cohorts and from peripheral blood in children (4–13 years) in 8 cohorts. Outcomes included parent-reported sleep duration, sleep initiation and fragmentation problems, and actigraphy-estimated sleep duration, sleep onset latency and wake-after-sleep-onset duration.

Results

We found no associations between DNA methylation at birth and parent-reported sleep duration (n = 3658), initiation problems (n = 2504), or fragmentation (n = 1681) (pvalues above cut-off 4.0 × 10–8). Lower methylation atcg24815001andcg02753354at birth was associated with longer actigraphy-estimated sleep duration (p = 3.31 × 10–8,n = 577) and sleep onset latency (p = 8.8 × 10–9,n = 580), respectively. DNA methylation in childhood was not cross-sectionally associated with any sleep outcomes (n = 716–2539).

Conclusion

DNA methylation, at birth or in childhood, was not associated with parent-reported sleep. Associations observed with objectively measured sleep outcomes could be studied further if additional data sets become available.
Advancing equity through strengthening research on health and well-being of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander
Authors: Xi Dan , Lei Ming , Liu Paul , Vemuri Ramesh , Ye Yihong
Published: July 2022

The National Institutes of Health’s Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Health Scientific Interest Group (NIH AANHPI-HSIG) provides a viewpoint on developing approaches to enhance research on health and wellbeing for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander ethnic populations, in order to advance racial equity amongst such populations.
Research progress on world natural heritage conservation: its buffer zones and the implications
Authors: Zhang Juan , Xiong Kangning , Liu Zhaojun , He Lixiang
Published: July 2022

In recent decades, World Heritage Sites (WHSs) have faced external severe threats in the context of global economisation and urbanisation. The buffer zone as a conservation layer and management tool for WHSs has attracted increasing scholarly attention and debate. However, there is limited understanding of buffer zones’ social and ecological role in the conservation of World Natural Heritage Sites (WNHSs) and a lack of summary of research progress on buffer zones. To fill this gap, this study systematically reviews the existing knowledge and research gaps on buffer zones in WNHSs worldwide. We used a systematic literature review framework of Search, Assessment, Synthesis and Analysis (SALSA) through the WoS and CNKI databases to obtain 188 articles that met the inclusion criteria.

The aim was to analyze the temporal and regional distribution of publications, types of studies, main processes and landmark achievements, gaps, and implications for future research. Results indicated that: (1) there is an overall upward trend in the number of publications, reaching a maximum in 2020, with the most published in Asia and Europe. The research process presents two main categories of ecologically and socially oriented. (2) The main landmark achievements include theoretical research, technology and methods, model construction, benefit monitoring and evaluation, experimental demonstration, etc. Among them, theoretical research is the most numerous (58.51%). (3) On this basis, 8 key scientific issues are summarised. Reviewing the research progress and summarising the critical scientific issues will provide practical guidance for the effective implementation of the role of buffer zones in global WNH conservation, especially for karst WNHSs with fragile ecological environments. (4) The future of Karst WNH conservation should be based on the effect of human-land relationship in promoting heritage protection. Examining the institutional factors of ecological problems and the management of degraded ecosystems from a socio-economic perspective. The purpose is to seek a socio-ecological system that is composed of the social, economic, ecological and cultural dimensions of the buffer zone. Focus on the coupling between eco-industrial development and WNH conservation, and strengthen buffer zone communities’ adaptive and collaborative management. Explore techniques and methods of conservation adapted to the characteristics of the fragile ecosystem of karst itself, and conduct experimental demonstrations.
The Accumulation of Economic Disadvantage: The Influence of Childbirth and Divorce on the Income and Poverty Risk of Single Mothers
Authors: Harkness Susan
Published: July 2022

This study examines how motherhood earnings penalties in combination with the cost of partner absence affect single mothers' economic well-being. Using longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics for 1990–2015 and fixed-effects models with individual-specific slopes reveals that when needs are controlled for, the transition to parenthood is as strongly linked to reduced family income as partner absence is. I consider different routes to single motherhood and predict that income penalties will differ for women entering single motherhood at a first child's birth and for women who were married at first childbirth but later separated. I show that previously married mothers face larger income penalties than those who were single at first childbirth because they see larger declines in their earnings following childbirth. The results illustrate how marriage and parenthood, alongside partner absence, shape the economic prospects of single-mother families. These findings highlight the importance of reducing gender inequalities in the labor market to improve single mothers' economic well-being.
Impact on the incidence of suspected physical abuse in children under 24 months of age during a global pandemic: A multi-centre Irish regional retrospective cross-sectional analysis
Authors: McDonnell Caoimhe , Courtney Michael , Barrett Michael , McDonnell Thérèse , Persaud Thara , Twomey Eilish , Harty Sinead , Byrne Angela T
Published: July 2022

Objectives

The advent of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in periods of nationwide restrictions in Ireland including school and workplace closures. The authors hypothesised that this disruption to society may have led to a change in patterns of suspected physical abuse (SPA) presentations to the paediatric emergency department (ED), whilst ED attendance fell dramatically during the period. We reviewed data to determine whether there was an increase in presentations of SPA during periods of social restrictions.

Methods

The National Integrated Medical Imaging Service was searched for all skeletal survey examinations performed between the dates of the 1 March 2016 and 28 Feb 2021 for studies performed in cases of SPA. Electronic records of attendance were extracted from the emergency department administrative system at the three paediatric emergency departments which serve the 400,000 children regionally. The data were reviewed to determine if SPA presentations increased during restriction periods.

Results

311 individual paediatric patients aged 24 months and under were referred for SPA skeletal survey during the study period. During the 2020/2021 period, 60 children were referred for SPA workup and there was no statistically significant difference between monthly referrals (mean 5, sd 2.92) in this period and matched periods over the preceding 4 years (mean 5.23, sd 2.69).

Conclusions

The incidence of SPA did not increase during the period of national restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Advances in knowledge

Periods of social restrictions taken to protect the public health during a pandemic do not result in short term increases in suspected physical abuse in the regional paediatric population.
Investigation Study of Ultrasound Practitioners’ Awareness about Artefacts of Hepatobiliary Imaging in Almadinah Almunawwarah
Authors: Alsaedi Hassan Ibrahim , Krsoom Anas Malik , Alshoabi Sultan Abdulwadoud , Alsharif Walaa M.
Published: July 2022

Objectives: To investigate the knowledge and awareness of ultrasound practitioners’ concerning ultrasound artefacts in evaluating the hepatobiliary system.

Methods: This electronic questionnaire-based comparative study involved the ultrasound practitioners’ who work in the radiology departments in Almadinah Almunawwarah governmental hospitals during the period from 1 November 2020 to 30 April 2021. Spearman’s rho correlation test was used to correlate between knowledge and job, academic qualification, and years of experience. A T-test and cross tabulation test were done to compare the knowledge about artefacts among radiologists and radiologic technologists.

Results: This study involved 94 participants distributed as 22 (23.4%) radiologists and 72 (76.6%) radiologic technologists. The results shows that 85%, 71%, 73%, 69%, 54% and 53% of the participants assigned the acoustic shadowing, acoustic enhancement, ring down, side lobe, reverberation and mirror artefacts, as artefacts respectively. However, 68%, 53%, 19%, 19%, 18%, and 40% of the participants gave correct final diagnosis of acoustic shadowing, acoustic enhancement, ring down, side lobes, reverberation, and mirror artifacts, respectively. Spearman’s rho correlation test shows significant correlation between participants with more than three years experience and knowledge related mirror artefacts (r=0.328, p=0.001). It shows significant correlation between radiologists with knowledge related mirror artefacts (r=0.367, p<0.001). A significant correlation was found between highly qualified participants and knowledge related mirror artefacts (r=0.336, p=0.001) and side lobe artefacts (r=0.237, p=0.008).

Conclusion: The questionnaire-based comparative study of knowledge about artefacts of hepatobiliary ultrasound imaging reveals a high level of Ultrasound practitioners’ knowledge in differentiating artefacts from pathology with a high level of knowledge in identifying hepatobiliary acoustic shadowing and acoustic enhancement artefacts. However, insufficient knowledge was noted in identifying mirror, side lobe, reverberation and ring down artefacts. A direct link was found between academic qualification, years of experience and practioners’ knowledge among.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.6.5084

How to cite this:Alsaedi HI, Krsoom AM, Alshoabi SA, Alsharif WM. Investigation Study of Ultrasound Practitioners’ Awareness about Artefacts of Hepatobiliary Imaging in Almadinah Almunawwarah. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(6):1526-1533.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.6.5084

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Students’ Perceptions of their Dental Curriculum and Education
Authors: Aldweesh Aljazi , Aldhubaiban Mohammed , Alqahtani Alanoud , Almohammad Iman Emad , Al-Sehaibany Fares S. , Albarakati Sahar F.
Published: July 2022

Objective: To evaluate the satisfaction of dental students toward their dental curriculum and education at dental colleges in the central region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods: Two forms of the questionnaire were established, a paper version and an electronic internet-based survey (Google online form). Paper versions were distributed to interns graduated from universities in Riyadh. The electronic versions were used to obtain responses from students at dental colleges and universities outside of Riyadh, such as Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University (PSAU) and Majmaah University, by emailing the links to the participants who were dental interns that had graduated in the 2018/2019 academic year.

Results: A total of 388 interns answered the questionnaire. Overall, 48.4% of the interns were highly satisfied with the Operative Department while regarding Orthodontic Department 16.9% were satisfied while 11.2% were highly satisfied. Regarding the non-clinical satisfaction score, the interns were mostly unsatisfied with their research skills (15.5%). Comparing the interns’ satisfaction at different institutions, there was a statistically significant difference in the clinical satisfaction score (P ≤0.01), but there was no difference in the non-clinical satisfaction score (P > 0.05).

Conclusion: Dental students need a greater focus and exposure to research skills during their dental school studies. To improve dental students’ level of clinical satisfaction, it is more important for them to have early exposure to comprehensive clinical training than specialty-based clinical training.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.6.5183

How to cite this:Aldweesh AH, Aldhubaiban M, Alqahtani A, Almohammad IE, Al-Sehaibany FS, Albarakati SF. Students’ Perceptions of their Dental Curriculum and Education. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(6):1441-1446. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.6.5183

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparison of Critical Thinking among undergraduate medical students of Conventional and Integrated curricula in Twin Cities
Authors: Sughra Ume , Usmani Ambreen
Published: July 2022

Objectives: To compare critical thinking of undergraduate medical students of institutes following traditional and integrated curriculum at Twin cities.

Methods: The current cross-sectional study was conducted in medical colleges of Twin Cities from February 2021 till August 2021. Two medical colleges one with conventional and other with integrated mode of curriculum were included. One hundred medical students were selected by simple random sampling from each conventional and integrated medical college. Free critical thinking test tool was used for data collection. The tool was composed of five sections, Arguments, Assumptions, Deductions, Inferences and interpreting information. Data entry and analysis was done by using SPSS version 20. Chi-Square test of independence was run to determine the association of critical thinking with type of curriculum. Independent sample t-test was applied to find out the mean difference in the critical thinking of medical students following the two different curriculums.

Results: In current study 200 students were included. Majority were females (n= 155, 77.5%). The overall percentage of good critical thinking was found to be 49%. Majority of the students (n=57, 58.2%) having good critical thinking were found associated with integrated curriculum (p < 0.024, OR= 0.524, 95% CI= 0.3 - 0.92). There was statistically significant difference of critical thinking between institutes following two different curriculum strategies. Total critical thinking score was also found statistically significantly [MD= 5.00, 95% CI, (-1.05-8.96), p<0.013], more with integrated curriculum (133.48±15.6) as compared to conventional curriculum (128.47 ± 11.43).

Conclusion: Critical thinking was found high among the students with the integrated curriculum as compared to the conventional.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.6.5409

How to cite this:Sughra U, Usmani A. Comparison of Critical Thinking among undergraduate medical students of Conventional and Integrated curricula in Twin Cities. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(6):1453-1459. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.6.5409

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Effects of Tigecycline combined with Cefoperazone on bacterial clearance and serum biochemical indexes in patients with pulmonary infections in ICU
Authors: Li Nina , Zhang Huiyan
Published: July 2022

Objectives: To investigate the effects of tigecycline combined with Cefoperazone on bacterial clearance and the expression of serum biochemical indexes [C-reactive protein (CRP), leukocyte count (WBC) and procalcitonin (PCT)] in patients with infection in an intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods: The clinical data of 79 patients with pulmonary infections within the ICU of Chenzhou first people’s Hospital from October 2019 to September 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. From the total, 38 patients received intravenous drip of Cefoperazone (control group), and 41 patients received intravenous drip of Cefoperazone and tigecycline (observation group). The treatment effect, bacterial clearance effect, serum biochemical index level and adverse reactions of the two groups were counted before and after treatment.

Results: The total efficacy in the observation group (95.12%) was higher than that of the control group (78.95%) (P<0.05). After treatment, the bacterial clearance rate in the observation group (87.04%) was higher than that in the control group (66.67%) (P<0.05). After treatment, the levels of CRP, WBC and PCT in the two groups were lower than those before treatment (P<0.05), and the levels in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the observation group (9.76%) and the control group (5.26%) (P>0.05).

Conclusions: The combination of Cefoperazone and tigecycline in the treatment of ICU infection can effectively improve the treatment effect of the disease, have a significant bacterial clearance effect, and can reduce the serum levels of CRP, WBC and PCT.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.6.5872

How to cite this:Li N, Zhang H. Effects of Tigecycline combined with Cefoperazone on bacterial clearance and serum biochemical indexes in patients with pulmonary infections in ICU. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(6):1622-1626. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.6.5872

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
FEATURES OF SKIN MICROCIRCULATION IN RATS OF DIFFERENT SEX AND AGE
Authors: Andreeva Irina V. , Telia Vladimir D.
Published: July 2022

Purpose. Investigate the parameters of skin microcirculation of rats of different sex and age by laser Doppler flowmetry.

Materials and methods. The study was conducted on 60 mongrel rats of both sexes weighing 120-270 g. The first group included 20 rats aged 1 month, the second – 20 rats aged 6-12 months and the third – 20 rats aged more than 18-24 months. Microcirculation was studied using a laser Doppler flowmeter with zoletil-xylazine anesthesia on the skin of the anterior abdominal wall. Statistical analysis was performed using the application package Statistica 13.0 (StatSoft, USA).

Results. The microcirculation index was slightly higher in males than in females rats in the skin of the animals’ abdomen. In the 1st age group, this difference was 8.96% (R=-0.27), in the 2nd - 4.19% (R=0.09), in the 3rd – 0.62% (R=-0.13). The myogenic tone index was consistently lower in males than in females – by 59.73% in 1st (R=0.12), by 9.86% in 2nd (R=0.20) and by 8.84% (R=0.46) in the 3rd age group. The microcirculation index was decreased by 11.15% (R=0.75) between 1st and 2nd age groups, by 39.04% (R=0.29) between 1st and 3rd age groups. The index ϭ (variable component of the microcirculation index) was increased in animals of the 2nd and 3rd groups. It indicated the preservation of the mechanisms of modulation of cutaneous blood flow in aged animals.

Conclusion. There was no statistically significant dependence of the microcirculation index in the skin of the abdomen on the sex of the animals. The basic parameters of microcirculation and the amplitude-frequency spectrum were decreased in aged animals.
THE EFFECT OF GAS FLOWS OF VARIOUS DEGREES OF IONIZATION ON THE DIELECTRIC PARAMETERS OF BLOOD IN VITRO
Authors: Martusevich Andrew K. , Eminova Hadija A. , Golygina Elena S. , Nazarov Vladimir V.
Published: July 2022

The aim of the study was to evaluate the dielectric properties of blood when treated with various ionized and non-ionized gas streams.

Material and methods. The effects of gas flows were studied on 10 whole blood samples of practically healthy volunteers divided into 5 portions (control, treatment with helium, argon and cold plasma obtained from them for 1 min.). The dielectric properties of the biological fluid were studied by microwave dielectrometry on the permeability and conductivity of the biological fluid.

Results. It was revealed that the presence of ionization and the type of carrier gas directly determine the nature of their effect on a model biological object (whole blood). It has been found that non-ionized helium and argon fluxes increase the permeability of the biological fluid without affecting its conductivity. On the contrary, ionized flows demonstrate more pronounced and specific shifts in the dielectric characteristics of blood. Helium cold plasma significantly increases the conductivity of the biological fluid while maintaining its conductivity, and argon plasma reduces both studied indicators.
Agents of Support for Community College Transfer Students: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lazarowicz Tony , McGill Craig M.
Published: July 2022

This qualitative study explored what support community college transfer students relied upon while transitioning to a 4-year university. Investigators examined experiences of 12 full-time degree-seeking students who previously attended a community college. Data included a series of three individual interviews with participants and reflective journals completed by six participants. Two primary agents of support were identified: academic advising and personal support. Participants emphasized active and implied support needs, types, and functions throughout the entire process. By understanding community college transfer students' needs, institutions (agent networks of support) can equip advisors and institutional staff (agents) with the information and resources (functions) that will assist students with a positive transition. We offer implications for advising training and opportunities for collaborative institutional partnerships.
Prehospital administration of calcium in trauma
Authors: Blackney Dean
Published: July 2022

Background

Calcium depletion in haemorrhagic shock is associated with pathophysiology detrimental to survival.

Aim

The purpose of this systematic literature review was to determine whether paramedic administration of calcium for haemorrhagic shock could reduce trauma morbidity and mortality.

Method

The MEDLINE and CINAHL databases were searched for publications relevant to hypocalcaemia management in traumatic haemorrhage.

Findings

Fourteen peer-reviewed articles met the inclusion criteria. These examined incidence, morbidity, mortality and treatment options for hypocalcaemia associated with traumatic haemorrhage. Paramedicine can play a key role in managing hypocalcaemia early and determining the effect this has on improving patient outcomes from severe trauma.

Conclusion

The findings in this review link hypocalcaemia to poor yet potentially modifiable outcomes in trauma. Ambulance services should consider empiric treatment with calcium when shocked patients are expected to receive blood transfusion for traumatic haemorrhage.
Autoquenching of spherical photon density waves during propagation in a turbid medium
Authors: Luchinin Alexander G. , Kirillin Mikhail Yu. , Dolin Lev S.
Published: July 2022

The effect of the formation of deep minima in frequency characteristics of photon density waves (PDWs) during their propagation in scattering media with different optical characteristics has been studied by statistical Monte Carlo modeling. The simulation was performed for the Henyey–Greenstein scattering phase function with the anisotropy factor value varying in the range of 0–0.93. The dependence of the position and magnitude of the minimum in the frequency response of PDWs on the combination of the parameters of the scattering medium and the distance to the radiation source is demonstrated.