bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desigualdade educacional no ensino médio brasileiro
Authors: Gusmão Fábio Alexandre Ferreira , Amorim Simone Silveira
Published: November 2022

Este artigo tem como objetivo examinar a relação entre o desempenho escolar e os indicadores de desigualdade social e econômica (PIB, IDH, Índice de Gini) das unidades federativas (UF). O estudo aborda os regimes desigualitários a partir do enfoque de Thomas Piketty (2004, 2012), para compreender como as instituições políticas extrativistas legitimam, justificam e estruturam as desigualdades econômicas, sociais e educacionais. Para tanto, fundamenta-se em Pedro Herculano Guimarães Ferreira Souza (2018), Daron Acemoglu e James Robinson (2012). Enquanto procedimento metodológico, utilizou-se a abordagem quantitativa, empregando-se como técnica estatística a correlação de Pearson e a regressão linear múltipla entre as variáveis: proficiência média em Língua Portuguesa e Matemática dos alunos do 3° ano das UF nas edições do SAEB de 2011, 2013 e 2015 e os indicadores de desigualdade econômica e social. Conclui-se que as instituições econômicas e políticas extrativistas presentes no Brasil favoreceram uma histórica desigualdade estruturada em um sistema econômico, social e educacional, e não garantiram os padrões mínimos de qualidade e equidade para assegurar o acesso, permanência e o sucesso dos estudantes concluintes da Educação Básica.
Knowledge and Attitude of Farmers towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
Authors: Meena Sunil Kumar , Wakle P. K. , More S. D. , Badhala B. S. , Meena D. K.
Published: November 2022

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, which is a kind of a “One Nation-One scheme” launched in the year 2016. PMFBY provides a widespread insurance cover against failure of the crops and helps in stabilizing the income of the insured farmers. The present study was conducted in Washim, Malegaon and Risod taluka of Washim districts from Vidharbha region of Maharashtra state, with an objective to the “Knowledge of Farmers about Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana”. Total twelve village selected in ten respondents of non-loanee farmers from each village were selected purposively to comprise a sample of 120 respondents of non-loanee for study. The important studies were that Majority of the respondents had medium level of knowledge about Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (72.50%), Majority i.e., 65.83% of the respondents belongs to moderately level of attitude towards Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.
Perceptions of Post Graduate Students towards UPI Transactions - A Study
Authors: Thirupathi Kanchu , Akula Ravi
Published: November 2022

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a technology that powers several bank accounts into a single mobile application, unifying several banking services, smooth fund routing, and merchant payments into one hood. The overall significance of UPI stems from the RBI's and the government's strong ambition and determination to develop a low-cost, easy, and secure digital payment system for the country's enormous population. The RBI and the NPCI have made remarkable efforts to spread the culture of digital payments. Due simplicity, no costs involvement and other reasons the number of UPI transactions are increasing at a faster rate. The portion of young generation in general and students in particular is very significant in transacting through UPI. The present paper is a modest attempt to study and analyse the perceptions of PG students of Satavahana University, Karimnagar, Telangana State. It is found that most of the PG students are approaching UPI for mobile recharge and fund transfer purpose.
The Social Suicide Rates: A Review on Durkheim’s Theory of Suicide
Authors: Hossen Md. Ashraf
Published: November 2022

Suicide is a societal disease. Various philosophers have offered opposing opinions on the reason of suicide. However, Ken Morrison's Marx, Durkheim, Weber: Formations of Modern Social Thought contains a lengthy study of Émile Durkheim's suicide. This research looks into Emile Durkheim's idea of suicide. Two examples are presented to demonstrate how he describes various sorts of suicide. Above all, it demonstrates how suicide thoughts engulf people. Why people commited suicide is explored in detail for four types of suicide.
Effect of Plantation Tree Species with Varied Cropping Systems on Depth Wise Rate of Soil Carbon Sequestration and Soil Chemical Properties in Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Kumar Suresh , Kumar Sunil , Diwakar Sandeep Kumar , Verma Archana , Pal Sudhir , Yadav Sandeep
Published: November 2022

Litterfall and root turnover from trees enrich the organic material and nutrient content of soil beneath the trees. The influence of seven different cropping systems with tree species was evaluated on pH, EC, CEC, OC and carbon sequestration. Soil sampling was done on GPS basis investigation area of the agro-forestry farm to assess the effect of plantations of tree species and cropping systems on soil carbon sequestration. One hundred twenty representative soil samples from the five soil depths viz. 0-15, 15-30, 30-60, 60-90 & 90-120 cm, soil samples were collect from 17 years olderCasuarina + Guava + Turmeric, Casuarina + Paddy + Wheat, Shisham, Shisham + Peragrass, Shisham + Mustard, Shisham + Paddy + Wheat, Eucalyptusin plots of Forestry farm have been collected during August-September, 2019, from ANDUA&T, Narendra Nagar, Kumarganj, Ayodhya Uttar Pradesh, India. The initial condition of research area considered as control. The soil samples were analyzed with following the standard procedures. Among the investigation plots of the farm, the maximum buildup of carbon sequestration was found in the plantation of Casuarina+ Guava+ Turmeric followed by Casuarina+ Paddy+ Wheat, Shisham+ Paddy+ Wheat. The minimum buildup of carbon sequestration was found plantation with Eucalyptus. Soil organic carbon decreased with increase in deepness irrespective of tree species. The chemical properties the pH from 7.85-10.40, E.C ranged from 0.15 – 4.97 dSm-1, organic carbon ranged from 2.07- 6.81 gkg-1 and CEC ranged from 9.50- 30.03 cmol(p+)kg-1. Soil carbon sequestration was ranged from 0.20-0.32 tonne ha-1 year-1. Soil organic carbon decreased with increase in depth and soil pH, EC and CEC increase with decreased in depth irrespective of tree species. Therefore, the tree plantations can improve the physico-chemical properties of the soil profile.
Wire Length Formulation Using Wire Density, Volume and Weight for Hand Calculation and Verification of Wire Usage
Authors: Mendoza Mariane A.
Published: November 2022

Wire Bonding process uses precious materials such as gold, silver, and copper wires to create a connection from the die to the strip and completing the circuitry of a semiconductor unit. Wire consumption is identified by length that is consumed per unit and higher consumption leads to inflated cost of the product. Upon unit processing, the standard wire consumption per unit is 0.036 meters equivalent to 27800 units per 1000 meters spool but only produced 26900 units. The study focuses on validation of the possible cause of lacking 800 units equivalent to 32 meters of wire length. Using the gold wire density, volume, and weight of the wire, wire length is formulated that can be used for hand calculation and verification of actual wire length. Methodology used for validation resulted that the actual unit consumption for wire length is at 0.037 meters which lacks 0.001 meter per unit, and this is equivalent to approximately 800 units per 1000-meter spool. In parallel, supply is compliant with the 1000 meters of wire per spool. Through the results collected, it was concluded that the standard is not sufficient to be the reference for the actual wire consumption resulting to the impression of high wire consumption. It was recommended for the alignment of the standards with the actual validation using the methodology stated on the study and hand calculation using wire length formula.
ASPS Exhibits Anti‐Rheumatic Effects by Reprogramming Gut Microbiota and Increasing Serum γ‐Glutamylcysteine Level
Authors: Liu Ang , Zhang Min , Wu Yanglin , Zhang Chenhui , Zhang Qin , Su Xinlin , Zhu Xu , Shi Weidong , Liu Jiangyun , Zhang Yang , Huang Cheng , Yan Zhaowei , Lin Jun
Published: November 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an essential cause of labor loss and disability for people worldwide. Acanthopanax senticosus polysaccharide (ASPS) is one of the most important active components from A. senticosus, which exhibits various pharmacological activities such as antioxidation and immunomodulation. However, no studies have reported the application of ASPS in treating RA. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effect of ASPS on RA and reveal its underlying mechanism. The potential therapeutic effect of ASPS against RA is initially verified in this study using the collagen‐induced arthritis model. Moreover, the protective benefits of ASPS are transmitted through the fecal microbiota and blocked by simultaneous antibiotic cocktail treatment, indicating that gut microbiota may be correlated with ASPS. The 16S rRNA sequencing using feces samples and untargeted UPLC‐MS metabolomics using serum samples further reveal that ASPS reprograms the arthritic progression triggered dysbiosis, enhances the expression of γ‐glutamylcysteine (GGC) synthetase, and enriches the serum concentration of GGC. Furthermore, metabolites GGC is found to be able to effectively interrupt NLRP3 inflammasome activation via inhibiting ASC nucleation and therefore attenuate inflammatory arthritis. Taken together, this work highlights ASPS's therapeutic potential against RA, which mainly exhibits its effects via modulating gut microbiota and regulating GGC production.
Inverse Design of Digital Materials Using Corrected Generative Deep Neural Network and Generative Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Wan Zhi , Chang Ze , Xu Yading , Huang Yitao , Šavija Branko
Published: November 2022

Generative networks are effective tools for digital materials (DM) inverse design. However, the optimization performance of generative networks is restricted by the increasing discrepancy between the optimized input and the prescribed input domain as the design loop increases. Herein, a correction technique is incorporated into generative deep neural network (GDNN) and generative deep convolutional neural network (GDCNN). The correction is performed by pulling the machine learning (ML)‐optimized inputs back to the prescribed domain at certain interval during the optimization process instead of only postprocessing at the end. A DM system with two phases, i.e., the matrix phase and the pore phase, is used for the structural design. The datasets are produced using a numerical model and describe the relationship between the material structure and the elastic modulus and tensile strength. The results show that the optimization effectiveness of corrected GDNN/GDCNN significantly improves given the fact that more structures converge to the best structures and fewer nonrepetitive structures are left after optimization, which helps to search for the best structures and decreases the computational burden when verifying the ML‐recommended structures. The corrected GDNN and GDCNN also manage to find structures with higher tensile strength in the new inverse design.
Hierarchically structural polyacrylonitrile/MIL‐101(Cr) nanofibrous membranes with super adsorption performance for indoxyl sulfate
Authors: Ding Weihong , Ding Siping , Meng Zheyi , Wang Xuefen
Published: November 2022

Excess protein‐bound uremic toxins (such as indoxyl sulfate [IS]) in the blood could aggravate chronic kidney disease and also predispose to serious cardiovascular disease. In this study, we constructed a novel IS adsorbent polyacrylonitrile/MIL‐101(Cr) (PAN‐M) nanofibrous membrane with high adsorption capacity and ultra‐fast sorption rate for IS. The porous metal–organic framework MIL‐101(Cr) were embedded in PAN nanofibers by electrospinning as an adsorbent for easy recovery. It was found that MIL‐101(Cr) had a strong electrostatic effect on the SO3− of IS and could reach the adsorption equilibrium within 5 min. Notably, MIL‐101(Cr) showed an extremely high adsorption capacity (~170 mg/g) for IS. The MIL‐101(Cr) loading of prepared PAN‐M nanofibrous membrane was optimized at 60 wt% and the optimal PAN‐M60 exhibited an appreciable IS adsorption capacity (103 mg/g). The removal of IS was enhanced from 35.4% to 62.5% during hemodialysis by using PAN‐M60 as adsorbent immersed in dialysate. This efficient adsorption performance can greatly reduce the consumption of dialysate and may shorten the hemodialysis time. This work would provide a fresh perspective on the development of MOF‐based adsorbents to improve hemodialysis therapies.
Assessing the potential for restoring freshwater mussels to urban streams
Authors: Bukaveckas Paul A. , Ryan John‐Reid , Mair Rachel
Published: November 2022

Field trials were conducted to assess the potential for stocking native unionid mussels in urban streams of the Chesapeake Bay catchment. Juvenile, hatchery‐raised mussels were placed in enclosures at five urban streams (two restored and three unrestored) and two nearby rural streams. Adult mussels were translocated to two restored urban streams. Mussel growth and survivorship were assessed at the stream sites and for individuals maintained at hatchery ponds.

At all sites, water quality conditions were generally suitable for mussels with respect to temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen. Food resources, as indicated by the quantity and quality of suspended and benthic particulate matter, were higher among rural sites and lower in unrestored urban streams.

Positive growth rates were observed at all sites, among both juveniles (caged) and translocated adults. Mussel fatty acid profiles were generally similar among sites, except for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which was lower among stocked mussels relative to mussels maintained at the hatchery.

Among the unrestored urban streams, the frequent occurrence of high discharge events resulted in burial and downstream loss of enclosures. At restored urban streams and rural streams, the washout effects were less severe. Apart from washout effects, mortality, as indicated by the presence of dead mussels, was low (<10%).

Overall, rural and restored urban streams provided suitable conditions for stocking native mussels, whereas in unrestored urban streams, bed and bank instability during high discharge events resulted in a high attrition of mussels. Conservation efforts may be aided by the consideration of mussel habitat needs in the design of stream restoration projects. The inclusion of mussel stocking efforts in urban stream restoration projects has the potential to facilitate stream recovery, expand and bring greater attention to mussel conservation efforts, and garner public support for the preservation of stream health in urban areas.
Levodopa responsiveness and white matter alterations in Parkinson's disease: A DTI‐based study and brain network analysis: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Du Juncong , Zhou Xuan , Liang Yi , Zhao Lili , Dai Chengcheng , Zhong Yuke , Liu Hang , Liu Guohui , Mo Lijuan , Tan Changhong , Liu Xi , Chen Lifen
Published: November 2022

Background

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) present various responsiveness to levodopa, but the cause of such differences in levodopa responsiveness is unclear. Previous studies related the damage of brain white matter (WM) to levodopa responsiveness in PD patients, but no study investigated the relationship between the structural brain network change in PD patients and their levodopa responsiveness.

Methods

PD patients were recruited and evaluated using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS). Each patient received a diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) scan and an acute levodopa challenge test. The improvement rate of UPDRS‐III was calculated. PD patients were grouped into irresponsive group (improvement rate < 30%) and responsive group (improvement rate ≥ 30%). Tract‐based spatial statistics (TBSS), deterministic tracing (DT), region of interest (ROI) analysis, and automatic fiber identification (AFQ) analyses were performed. The structural brain network was also constructed and the topological parameters were calculated.

Results

Fifty‐four PD patients were included. TBSS identified significant differences in fractional anisotropy (FA) values in the corpus callosum and other regions of the brain. DT and ROI analysis of the corpus callosum found a significant difference in FA between the two groups. Graph theory analysis showed statistical differences in global efficiency, local efficiency, and characteristic path length.

Conclusion

PD patients with poor responsiveness to levodopa had WM damage in multiple brain areas, especially the corpus callosum, which might cause disruption of information integration of the structural brain network.
The mere possession effect of shareable digital coupons: The mediating role of anticipated self‐enhancement
Authors: Zhang Sha , De Vries Eline L.E. , Ding Aihui
Published: November 2022

Shareable digital coupons have emerged as a new marketing strategy. Prior literature on shareable coupons assumes that shareable coupons can play a role only after they have been shared with others. Surprisingly, we theorize that shareable coupons can come into play as early as when consumers merely possess them, even before consumers share them with others, an effect that precedes the effect of the actual coupon sharing. In this research, we show that the mere possession of shareable digital coupons (not necessarily the actual sharing) is able to induce anticipated self‐enhancement among consumers. Hence shareable digital coupons are more effective than non‐shareable digital coupons, and the effect is most pronounced among consumers with high image concerns. The higher coupon effectiveness of shareable digital coupons is reflected in consumers' greater urge/intention to acquire the coupon, intention to revisit, willingness to spend, as well as in firm's sales increase when products are promoted with shareable instead of non‐shareable digital coupons. Our work contributes to the literature on shareable coupons, the mere possession effects, anticipated self‐enhancement, and other‐rewarding promotions, and is of important managerial value given the ease with which the shareability feature can be added to coupons.
Oral propranolol and topical timolol in the treatment of post‐burn pyogenic granuloma: Two cases and a review of the literature
Authors: Ebrahimi Zahra , Mahdi Zeinab , Khairi Ali Asghar , Behrangi Elham , Zare Armaghan Gharehaghaji , Dehghani Abbas , Goodarzi Azadeh
Published: November 2022

Two cases of pyogenic granulomas in burned skin were presented, a 17‐month‐old boy and a 7‐year‐old girl, being given oral propranolol and topical timolol. Both cases showed lesions improvement with no adverse effects, suggesting that beta‐blocker therapy may have a positive impact on the treatment of pyogenic granuloma after burns.
Sulfur‐doped hard carbon hybrid anodes with dual lithium‐ion/metal storage bifunctionality for high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Cho Sungmin , Hyun Jong Chan , Ha Son , Choi Yeonhua , Seong Honggyu , Choi Jaewon , Jin Hyoung‐Joon , Yun Young Soo
Published: November 2022

Bifunctional hybrid anodes (BHAs), which are both a high‐performance active host material for lithium‐ion storage as well as a guiding agent for homogeneous lithium metal nucleation and growth, exhibit significant potential as anodes for next‐generation high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). In this study, sulfur‐doped hard carbon nanosphere assemblies (S‐HCNAs) were prepared through a hydrothermal treatment of a liquid organic precursor, followed by high‐temperature thermal annealing with elemental sulfur for application as BHAs for LIBs. In a carbonate‐based electrolyte containing fluoroethylene carbonate additive, the S‐HCNAs showed high lithium‐ion storage capacities in sloping as well as plateau voltage sections, good rate capabilities, and stable cyclabilities. In addition, high average Coulombic efficiencies (CEs) of ~96.9% were achieved for dual lithium‐ion and lithium metal storage cycles. In the LIB full‐cell tests with typical NCM811 cathodes, the S‐HCNA‐based BHAs containing ~400 mA h g−1 of excess lithium led to high energy and power densities of ~500 W h kg−1 and ~1695 W kg−1, respectively, and a stable cycling performance with ~100% CEs was achieved.
Chemistry, Medicine, and Gold‐Making: Tycho Brahe, Helwig Dieterich, Otto Tachenius, and Johann Glauber
Authors: Wentrup Curt
Published: November 2022

17th century chemistry was concerned largely with iatrochemistry (medicinal chemistry) and the transmutation of metals, especially with the purpose of making gold. Thus, Johann Rudolph Glauber made a living making and selling chemicals such as nitric acid and medicaments such as aurum potabile (drinkable gold), but he also believed in the transmutation or “improvement” of metals and the “augmentation” of gold, and he sold recipes for such processes. This perspective aims to provide a snapshot of the range of 17th century chemistry by analysis of the efforts of four representatives to make drugs, chemicals, and gold. It will be concluded that early modern chemists were unable to break out from the conceptual doctrines imposed by Aristotle and Paracelsus, which made transmutation perfectly logical. No further scientific advance could be made until the idea that all things are composed of the same basic constituents was abandoned in favour of the atomic theory.
Design of an RF output Class JJ−1 Doherty power amplifier using post‐matching varactor diodes for configurable IoT transmitters
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Kumar Sachin , Kanaujia Binod Kumar
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a Doherty power amplifier (DPA) based on Class‐J power amplifier (PA) and Class‐J−1 PA is proposed for configurable Internet of things (IoT) transmitters. A post‐matching structure is used to achieve wider bandwidth performance, high efficiency, and power gain flatness. Different drain biases on the main and peaking devices are used to perform asymmetric operations. The proposed DPA structure achieves 62.4% power‐added efficiency (PAE) with a maximum output range of 37.38–38.20 dBm for the frequency band of 5.1–5.8 GHz and a power gain range of 13.24–12.24 dB. It has a maximum drain efficiency of 42.7%–51.5% at a back‐off power level of 9 dB. In order to validate the linearity of the proposed design, an analysis of the adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) for various gate‐biased voltage operations is performed. The microchip occupies a compact die area of 2.1 mm × 1.2 mm, which is fabricated with GaAs 0.25 μm PHEMT to validate the enhanced broadband characteristics of the proposed configuration. Compared to the existing DPAs, the proposed DPA exhibits higher efficiency, output power, and compact size.
Pathologist‐performed ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration biopsies of extrathyroidal sites: An observational study
Authors: Kliassov Evelyna George , McKenzie David Robert , Dash Rajesh Chandra , Jiang Xiaoyin , Jones Claudia Kay , Foo Wen‐Chi
Published: November 2022

Background

Pathologist‐performed ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration (USFNA) biopsies have become an increasingly important component of the interventional cytopathologist's toolbox. However, its application varies between institutions, and there is limited literature describing its performance characteristics when utilized in extrathyroidal sites. Here we review our institutional experience within our pathologist‐run FNA clinic.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of pathologist‐performed USFNAs of extrathyroidal sites over a 9‐year period. Data collected included lesion site, size, patient age, patient gender, diagnostic category, and corresponding results from surgical resection when available. The diagnosis on surgical resection was considered the gold standard for determining discordance rates.

Results

A total of 143 pathologist‐performed USFNAs of extrathyroidal lesions were performed from October 2011 to October 2020. These encompassed a wide range of sites, with most biopsies from the head and neck. The mean recorded size was 2.2 cm, with a range of 0.6–6 cm. Larger lesions (over 2 cm) were more likely to be noted in challenging locations, demonstrate difficult features, or be cystic. Most (n = 133) biopsies were sufficient for diagnosis, with a non‐diagnostic rate of 7% (n = 10). Accuracy when compared to subsequent surgical resection was high, with sensitivity of 89%, specificity of 93%, positive predictive value of 94%, and negative predictive value of 87%.

Conclusion

Our experience supports that pathologist‐performed USFNA of extrathyroidal lesions—even those with challenging features—can result in excellent diagnostic yield and accuracy. The addition of USFNA to the interventional cytopathologists' repertoire can be a valuable tool to enhance patient care.
Self‐regulation profiles reflecting distinct levels of eating disorder and comorbid psychopathology in the adult population: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Eichler Janina , Schmidt Ricarda , Bartl Carl , Benecke Cord , Strauss Bernhard , Brähler Elmar , Hilbert Anja
Published: November 2022

Objective

Previous research showed that individuals with eating disorders (EDs) can be subtyped by their levels of psychopathology and self‐regulation abilities. However, nothing is known about whether self‐regulation abilities are solely suited to depict the heterogeneity in ED and comorbid psychopathology in nonclinical samples. Therefore, this study sought to explore self‐regulation profiles and their ability to discriminate ED, depression and anxiety disorders, and personality dysfunction in the adult population.

Methods

Within a German representative sample, N = 2391 adults (18–92 years) were examined using latent profile analysis to identify profiles based on established cognitive and emotional self‐regulation scales including attention control, cognitive reappraisal, and difficulties in identifying feelings. Profiles were validated with ED, depression, anxiety, and personality dysfunction measures.

Results

The final solution selected as best balancing goodness of fit and interpretability included four profiles—High‐Functioning, Moderate‐Functioning, Dysregulated, and Alexithymic—with high explanatory power of R2 = .99. Profiles were characterized primarily by differences in difficulties in identifying feelings followed by differences in attention control and differed significantly regarding ED, depression and anxiety disorders, and personality dysfunction, with the Dysregulated profile showing the most unfavorable correlates.

Conclusions

This study uniquely revealed that low cognitive and emotional self‐regulation were indicators for ED, depression, anxiety, and personality dysfunction in the adult population. Future research should investigate whether the identified profiles predict the development of ED and comorbid psychopathology longitudinally.

Public Significance

Individuals with eating disorders present with difficulties in cognitive and emotional self‐regulation, likely maintaining their symptoms. This representative study in the German adult population sought to build profiles based on cognitive and emotional self‐regulation that differed in eating disorder and comorbid psychopathology. We discuss the potential to detect individuals with elevated eating disorder and comorbid psychopathology based on the identified profiles in nonclinical settings.
Sprout microbial safety: A reappraisal after a quarter‐century
Authors: Fahey Jed W. , Smilovitz Burak Jack , Evans Doug
Published: November 2022

The World Health Organization estimates that each year one in 10 people worldwide falls ill after eating contaminated food, resulting in 600 million cases of foodborne diseases and 420,000 deaths. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control estimates that 48 million people get sick from a foodborne illness, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3000 die. A very small fraction of those illnesses is due to sprouts.

Commercial green sprout production began in the early 1970s, but home‐sprouting has been practiced by small numbers of people for a very long time. Twenty‐five years ago, the US Food and Drug Administration investigated 50 reported outbreaks and 2600 cases of foodborne illness associated with contaminated sprouts. Since then, the promulgation of science‐based guidelines has led to laboratory (hold‐and‐release) testing mandates for the green‐sprout industry. Home‐sprouters have become better informed of potential hazards, and they now have safer raw materials and safety‐promoting supplies available to them, and a number of online communities that exchange information rapidly. Safe microgreens (“large sprouts”) production has also grown considerably since then.

Data based on more than two decades of surveillance support the thesis that sprouts are not only highly nutritious, but also very safe when responsibly produced. Both the need to select for appropriate seed “genetics” and “phenotype” and the need to test and certify seed supply for both commercial sprouters and home‐sprouters is paramount to serving a more informed and progressive sprouting public (both consumers of commercially sprouted seeds and home‐sprouters).
Penicillin V prophylaxis uptake among children living with sickle cell disease in a specialist sickle cell clinic in Ghana: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Odoom Samuel F. , Newton Sam K. , Nakua Emmanuel K. , Boahen Kennedy G. , Nguah Samuel B. , Ansong Daniel , Nyanor Isaac , Amuzu Evans X. , Amanor Ernest , Osei Francis A. , Mohammed Aliyu , Mensah Nicholas K. , Martyn‐Dickens Charles , Osei‐Akoto Alex , Paintsil Vivian
Published: November 2022

Background and Aims

Penicillin V prophylaxis protects children living with sickle cell disease (SCD) from bacteria infections especially Streptococcus pneumonia. However, the uptake of penicillin V prophylaxis is difficult to assess and often poor among SCD patients. Therefore, this study sought to investigate oral penicillin V prophylaxis adherence among SCD children using urine assay and self‐reported methods and the associated factors.

Methods

The study employed an analytical cross‐sectional design in the assessment of penicillin V prophylaxis adherence using both urine assay and self‐reported methods. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with penicillin V prophylaxis adherence. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Among the 421 SCD patients recruited, penicillin V prophylaxis adherence was observed to be 30.0% and 68.0% for the objective and subjective methods of assessment, respectively. For the objective method of assessment, being cared for by grandparents increased the odds of penicillin V adherence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.68, confidence interval [CI] = 1.03–13.15). However, SCD patients within the ages of 10–14 years (aOR = 0.36, CI = 0.17–0.80), >14 years (aOR = 0.17, CI = 0.05–0.61), SCD patient cared for by married caregivers/parents (aOR = 0.32, CI = 0.14–0.72), SCD patient cared for by divorced caregivers/parents (aOR = 0.23, CI = 0.07–0.75), SCD patients taking homemade (herbal) preparations for the treatment of SCD (aOR = 0.42, CI = 0.21–0.83), and inappropriate intake of penicillin V prophylaxis (aOR = 0.27, CI = 0.11–0.67) reduced the odds of penicillin V adherence. For the subjective method of assessment, taking homemade preparation (herbal) for the treatment of SCD (aOR = 0.52, CI = 0.30–0.89) and inappropriate intake of penicillin V (aOR = 0.32, CI = 0.17–0.60) reduced the odds of penicillin V adherence.

Conclusion

This study reports a relatively low adherence rate of penicillin V prophylaxis among children living with SCD. Educating and counseling both SCD patients and/or caregivers on the need to be adherent to penicillin V prophylaxis could prevent complications that may arise from nonadherence.
Current knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) towards physical activity (PA) and its impact on obesity management in Bangladesh: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Habib Mohammad Asadul , Dey Moumita , Chowdhury Akibul Islam , Rahman Tanjina , Kundu Rajib Kumar
Published: November 2022

Background and Aims

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Bangladeshi people's current knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on obesity and physical activity (PA), as well as the associated factors.

Methods

The KAP was evaluated using a standard questionnaire among 429 individuals, of whom 75.5% were men and had a mean age (±SD) of 28.9 ± 7.9 years. Using a mobile‐based KoBo toolbox v.25.0 program, information was gathered from respondents who resided in various districts. A Chi‐square test and a linear regression test were performed to determine the relationship between the variables, and a one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to the determine differences in means.

Results

The study showed that more than 95% of participants had good knowledge level, although the attitude and practice levels were low. Based on ANOVA test, the mean knowledge score was significantly different (p < 0.05) with age, marital status, and education; attitude levels with education and body mass index (BMI); and practice levels with education, residence, marital status, and BMI. Linear regression analysis exhibited: the level of knowledge was associated with age (β = −5.34), BMI (β = 3.67), and attitude (β = 0.46) while the level of attitude was associated with education (β = 2.26), BMI (β = −2.42), knowledge (β = 0.2) and practice levels (β = 0.18); and finally, the level of practice was associated with education (β = −3.29), BMI (β = −4.5) and attitude (β = 0.35).

Conclusion

The increased prevalence of obesity among the Bangladeshi population was indicated by optimal levels of knowledge but inadequate levels of attitude and practice toward PA. So, proper initiatives should be taken to educate people on the importance of regular PA to manage obesity by policymakers and the government.
Corporate debt structure: The long and the short of it
Authors: Clark Steven P. , Park Min C.
Published: November 2022

Consistent with the existence of a rollover risk channel, we document that an increase in short‐term debt proportional to the total debt increases the cost of long‐term debt. The effect of rollover risk is more pronounced for the firms that are vulnerable to unforeseen negative events. Moreover, we find that the marginal effect of short‐term debt on the yield spread is intensified during periods of market illiquidity. Finally, our results suggest that this positive effect on the yield spread due to increased rollover risk is partially offset by a negative effect due to the attenuation of underinvestment problems.
Mechanistic modeling indicates rapid glyphosate dissipation and sorption‐driven persistence of its metabolite AMPA in soil
Authors: Wimmer Benedikt , Langarica‐Fuentes Adrian , Schwarz Erik , Kleindienst Sara , Huhn Carolin , Pagel Holger
Published: November 2022

Residual concentrations of glyphosate and its main transformation product aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) are often observed in soils. The factors controlling their biodegradation are currently not well understood. We analyzed sorption‐limited biodegradation of glyphosate and AMPA in soil with a set of microcosm experiments. A mechanistic model that accounts for equilibrium and kinetic sorption facilitated interpretation of the experimental results. Both compounds showed a biphasic dissipation with an initial fast (up to Days 7–10) and subsequent slower transformation rate, pointing to sorption‐limited degradation. Glyphosate transformation was well described by considering only equilibrium sorption. Model simulations suggested that only 0.02–0.13% of total glyphosate was present in the soil solution and thus bioavailable. Glyphosate transformation was rapid in solution (time required for 50 % dissipation of the total initially added chemical [DT50] = 3.9 min), and, despite strong equilibrium sorption, total glyphosate in soil dissipated quickly (DT50 = 2.4 d). Aminomethylphosphonic acid dissipation kinetics could only be described when considering both equilibrium and kinetic sorption. In comparison to glyphosate, the model simulations showed that a higher proportion of total AMPA was dissolved and directly bioavailable (0.27–3.32%), but biodegradation of dissolved AMPA was slower (DT50 = 1.9 h). The model‐based data interpretation suggests that kinetic sorption strongly reduces AMPA bioavailability, leading to increased AMPA persistence in soil (DT50 = 12 d). Thus, strong sorption combined with rapid degradation points to low risks of glyphosate leaching by vertical transport through soil in the absence of preferential flow. Ecotoxicological effects on soil microorganisms might be reduced. In contrast, AMPA persists, rendering these risks more likely.
Multi‐factor synergistic effects on summer precipitation in the Meiyu region of China
Authors: Yao Xiuping , Duan Haixia , Yan Pengcheng , Zhao Cailing , Zhou Ganlin
Published: November 2022

Summer precipitation in the Meiyu region of China arises from the synergy of multiple factors such as the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM), Western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH), the sea surface temperature (SST), etc. Based on an analysis of the key influencing factors of summer precipitation in the Meiyu region of China from 1961 to 2019, we selected five key factors: the EASM index (EXSMI), Western Pacific subtropical high area index and ridge line index (WPSH‐AI and WPSH‐RLI), Westerly Index (WI), and NAO index. These five indexes were then used to construct a multi‐factor synergy index (MFSI) by the weighted least‐square method. The results show that the MFSI was able to describe the characteristics of EASMI, WPSH, NAO, and the westerly circulation. It showed a good correlation with the temporal and spatial distribution of summer precipitation in the Meiyu region. In the strong (weak) MFSI years, the NAO index was low (high), the North Atlantic region presented a “+ − +” (“− + −”) three‐pole structure from south to north, the WI was low (high), the Siberian high pressure was weak (strong), the middle and high latitude Eurasia Mainland upper trough and ridge meridional decreased (increased). On the contrary, the precipitation increased (reduced). This index has a good indication of summer precipitation in the Meiyu region, which has important scientific significance and practical value for the prediction and prediction of precipitation in the Meiyu region of China.
Societal economic burden and determinants of costs for atopic dermatitis
Authors: Ortsäter Gustaf , De Geer Anna , Rieem Dun Alexander , Geale Kirk , Lindberg Ingrid , Thyssen Jacob Pontoppidan , von Kobyletzki Laura B. , Metsini Alexandra , Henrohn Dan , Neregård Petra , Cha Amy , Cappelleri Joseph C. , Romero William , Neary Maureen P.
Published: November 2022

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease while the economic burden of AD by severity is not adequately understood.

Objective

To estimate the societal economic burden and to identify cost determinants of AD.

Methods

In this population‐based, controlled cohort study in Sweden, patients with AD were identified through diagnosis codes in primary or secondary care or by dispensed medications using administrative healthcare registers. A reference cohort without AD was randomly selected from the general population. Healthcare costs (primary/secondary care visits and dispensed medication) and indirect costs (care for sick children and long‐term sick leave for adults) were calculated annually. AD patients were stratified by age (paediatric [age < 12], adolescent [12 ≤ age < 18] or adult [age ≥ 18]), and severity (mild‐to‐moderate [M2M] or severe AD) and matched to the reference cohort.

Results

Compared with controls, the annual mean per‐patient direct healthcare costs in the first year following diagnosis were €941 and €1259 higher in paediatric patients with M2M and severe AD, respectively. In the first year following diagnosis, the mean indirect cost for care of sick children was €69 and €78 higher per patient in M2M and severe AD, respectively. In adolescents with M2M and severe AD, direct healthcare costs were €816 and €1260 higher, respectively. In adults, healthcare costs were €1583 and €2963 higher in patients with M2M and severe AD, respectively and indirect costs were €148 and €263 higher compared with controls. Management of comorbid medical conditions was an important driver of incremental healthcare costs. Total incremental societal economic burden for AD was €351 and €96 million higher in patients with M2M and severe AD, respectively, compared to controls.

Conclusion

AD is associated with a significant societal economic burden primarily driven by the cost burden of M2M AD due to the high prevalence of this population. Regardless of severity level, management of non‐AD comorbidities is a major driver of total costs.
Nanoporous zeolite and its effect on the immobilization of trace elements in soils from scrap landfills under aided phytostabilization
Authors: Radziemska Maja , Blazejczyk Aurelia , Gusiatin Mariusz Z. , Cydzik‐Kwiatkowska Agnieszka , Majewski Grzegorz , Hammerschmiedt Tereza , Rogula‐Kozłowska Wioletta , Majder‐Łopatka Małgorzata , Kucerik Jiri , Bilgin Ayla , Holatko Jiri , Kintl Antonin , Brtnicky Martin
Published: November 2022

The rising prerequisite for developing novel green remediation methods for trace‐element‐contaminated lands is allied to the necessity to really mend the soil environs. The effectiveness of zeolite‐aided phytostabilization (AP) of soil contaminated with trace elements (TEs), from a scrap yard, using Lolium perenne as the plant for testing, was determined and discussed. The variability and activity of the rhizospheric bacterial community were also examined. The initial soil used in the AP experiment was characterized by especially high total contents of Zn, Pb, Cu and Cd. The TE total contents in roots and aboveground parts of L. perenne as well as in the phytostabilized soil materials were analyzed with flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The study revealed that the addition of natural zeolite into TE‐contaminated soil increased the relative plant biomass as well as the soil pH value as compared to the phytostabilized non‐amended series, whereas the total contents (with respect to an absolute value) of Zn, Pb, Cu and Cd were generally higher in roots than in the aboveground parts of L. perenne. In particular, the incorporation of zeolite to the soil contributed most significantly to the considerable relative decrease in the total contents of Cu, Pb, Cd and Zn in the soil, as well as the content of bioavailable and leachable speciations of Cd, Cu, Zn and Pb extracted from the soil using CaCl2 solution as compared to the non‐amended series. In the phytostabilized zeolite‐amended soil, the overall bacterial diversity decreased but the presence of zeolite favoured the growth of microorganisms belonging to Gammaproteobacteria, Planctomycetia, and Thermomicrobia, in particular, the genera Mycobacterium, Williamsia, and Prochlorococcus.
Low‐dielectric and low‐temperature curable fluorinated nano carbon/polyimide composites with 6‐aminoquinoline for end capping
Authors: Zhang Jialin , Sui Yuying , Li Jinhui , Shan Liang , Niu Fangfang , Zhang Guoping , Sun Rong
Published: November 2022

One challenge in the high‐performance dielectric material of polyimide (PI) is to obtain the excellent comprehensive properties at low curing temperature for advanced IC package. In this work, 6‐aminoquinoline (AQL) is introduced through covalent bonds for end capping to obtain a low‐temperature curable PI at first. The results demonstrate that with very limited introduce (2.76%) of AQL, the imidization index could reach as high as 1.01 at 200°C. Then, fluorinated nano carbon (FC) is further introduced resulting in the fluorinated nano carbon/polyimide (FCPI) composites, which effectively reduces the dielectric constant (1 wt%, 2.75 @ 1 MHz). Besides, the as‐prepared FCPIs also possess excellent thermal property of which FCPI‐0.3 exhibited the 5% weight loss temperature of 540°C and the glass transition temperature is also as high as 385°C. Furthermore, the tensile strength of the film is 127 MPa, the elongation at break is around 15.82%, and the Youngs' modulus is about 3.10 GPa proving the superior mechanical property. As a result, the successful preparation of the FCPI nanocomposites not only possess low‐temperature curing and low‐dielectric performance but also exhibit excellent thermal and mechanical properties, which shows a wide range of application prospects in the field of microelectronics for the advanced electronic package.
Case study: power supply units
Authors: Vogel Denny , Becker Tino
Published: November 2022

LaCoSys Laser Control Systems specializes in manufacturing optoelectronic products. The company's electronics experts have started integrating fine‐tunable Cotek power supply units into their customers' laser test systems. Featuring technology much like that found in laboratories, these power supplies have a great advantage: they not only provide voltage, they can also a deliver a precisely calibrated amount of current.
Relationships between sexual function, mental health, and quality of life of female patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease
Authors: Chen Sisi , Luo Ting , Huang Lingzhi , Zhou Wen , Luo Jun
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has gradually increased, including new drugs and surgical methods, the mortality rate of PAH patients has significantly decreased, and the average survival rate has significantly improved. However, there was no obvious improvement in sexual health, mental health, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with PAH. Although an important dimension of QoL, little is known about sexual health and sexual health‐related QoL of patients with PAH in China. In this study, the female sexual function index (FSFI) scale, the Symptom Checklist‐90 (SCL‐90), and emPHasis‐10 were used to evaluate PAH associated with congenital heart disease (CHD‐PAH) patients’ sexual function, mental health, and QoL. The score of sexual function in female CHD‐PAH patients ranged from 4.40 to 34.80 points, and the average score was 26.80 (19.00–27.80) points. The detection rate of sexual dysfunction was 48.30%. The FSFI score of all dimensions of the sexual dysfunction group was significantly lower than that of the nonsexual dysfunction group. In addition, the scores of SCL‐90 and emPHasis‐10 were significantly higher than that of the nonsexual dysfunction group (p < 0.01). The sexual function was negatively correlated with mental health (r = −0.58, p < 0.01) and QoL (r = −0.62, p < 0.01) in female CHD‐PAH patients. The sexual function of female patients with CHD‐PAH is not optimistic. Sexual health may impact mental health and overall QoL in female PAH patients. Reasonable intervention measures should be taken to improve their sexual health, so as to improve their overall QoL.