bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roof structure of shallow coal seam group mining in Western China
Authors: Cao Jian , Huang Qingxiang
Published: August 2021

In order to realize roof control of shallow coal seam group mining in Western China, combining with engineering statistics, physical simulation and theoretical analysis, the roof weighting characteristics during lower coal seam mining were revealed, and the classification of shallow coal seam group was proposed. Based on this, mechanical models of roof structure were set up, and the calculation method of support resistance was determined. The results show that the roof weighting is closely related to the interburden thickness and the mining height of lower coal seam, considering the ratio of interburden thickness to the mining height, as well as the key stratum structure, the classification of shallow coal seam group was put forward. The first type is shallow coal seam group with no key stratum (SCSG-No), its roof pressure is mainly affected by caving roof of upper coal seam, and the interburden roof forms slanting pillar-beam structure. The second type is shallow coal seam group with single key stratum (SCSG-S), interburden roof represents step voussoir beam structure. The third type is shallow coal seam group with double key strata (SCSG-D), interburden roof can form double key strata structure, the lower key stratum forms slanting step voussoir beam structure, while the upper key stratum forms voussoir beam structure, besides, longwall face represents large—small periodic weighting. Through establishing the roof structure models, the calculation formulas of support resistance were determined, it can provide basis for roof control and promote safe mining in Western China.
Empathy: A clue for prosocialty and driver of indirect reciprocity
Authors: von Bieberstein Frauke , Essl Andrea , Friedrich Kathrin
Published: August 2021

Indirect reciprocity has been proposed to explain prosocial behavior among strangers, whereby the prosocial act is returned by a third party. However, what happens if the prosocial act cannot be observed by the third party? Here, we examine whether empathy serves as a clue for prosociality and whether people are more generous toward more empathetic people. In a laboratory study, we measured prosocial behavior as the amount sent in the dictator game and empathy based on the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI). By using an incentivized task, we find that people believe that more empathetic participants send more money in the dictator game. Thus, people see empathy as a clue for prosocial behavior. Furthermore, in a second dictator game, participants indirectly reciprocate by sending more money to more empathetic recipients. Therefore, we suggest that empathy can replace a reputation derived from observable prosocial behavior in triggering indirect reciprocity.
Impact of the DREAMS interventions on educational attainment among adolescent girls and young women: Causal analysis of a prospective cohort in urban Kenya
Authors: Mulwa Sarah , Chimoyi Lucy , Agbla Schadrac , Osindo Jane , Wambiya Elvis O. , Gourlay Annabelle , Birdthistle Isolde , Ziraba Abdhalah , Floyd Sian
Published: August 2021

Background

DREAMS promotes a comprehensive HIV prevention approach to reduce HIV incidence among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). One pathway that DREAMS seeks to impact is to support AGYW to stay in school and achieve secondary education. We assessed the impact of DREAMS on educational outcomes among AGYW in Nairobi, Kenya.

Methods and findings

In two informal settlements in Nairobi, 1081 AGYW aged 15−22 years were randomly selected in 2017 and followed-up to 2019. AGYW reporting invitation to participate in DREAMS during 2017–18 were classified as “DREAMS beneficiaries”. Our main outcome was being in school and/or completed lower secondary school in 2019. We used multivariable logistic regression to quantify the association between being a DREAMS beneficiary and the outcome; and a causal inference framework to estimate proportions achieving the outcome if all, versus no, AGYW were DREAMS beneficiaries, adjusting for the propensity to be a DREAMS beneficiary. Of AGYW enrolled in 2017, 79% (852/1081) were followed-up to 2019. In unadjusted analysis, DREAMS beneficiaries had higher attainment than non-beneficiaries (85% vs 75% in school or completed lower secondary school, Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.9; 95%CI: 1.3,2.8). The effect weakened with adjustment for age and other confounders, (adjusted OR = 1.4; 95%CI: 0.9,2.4). From the causal analysis, evidence was weak for an impact of DREAMS (estimated 83% vs 79% in school or completed lower secondary school, if all vs no AGYW were beneficiaries, difference = 4%; 95%CI: -2,11%). Among AGYW out of school at baseline, the estimated differences were 21% (95%CI: -3,43%) among 15−17 year olds; and 4% (95%CI: -8,17%) among 18−22 year olds.

Conclusions

DREAMS had a modest impact on educational attainment among AGYW in informal settlements in Kenya, by supporting both retention and re-enrolment in school. Larger impact might be achieved if more AGYW were reached with educational subsidies, alongside other DREAMS interventions.
Association of fibroblast growth factor 10 with the fibrotic and inflammatory pathogenesis of Graves’ orbitopathy
Authors: Jang Sun Young , Choi Soo Hyun , Kikkawa Don , Lee Eun Jig , Yoon Jin Sook
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The role of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) in orbital fibroblasts (OFs) is rarely known. In this study, we investigated the effect of FGF10 on fibrosis and the inflammation mechanism of Graves′ orbitopathy (GO).

Methods

Orbital tissue from GO (n = 15) and non-GO (n = 15) was obtained for this study. The mRNA and protein expression levels of FGF10 and FGF receptor 2b (FGFR2b) in orbital tissue were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blot analysis, and confocal microscopy. The effects of FGF10 on transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 induced fibrotic proteins and interleukin (IL)-1β- or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α- induced inflammatory proteins were investigated using recombinant human (rh) FGF10 and small interfering (si) RNA transfection against FGF10.

Results

FGF10 and FGFR2b mRNA expression levels were significantly lower in GO orbital tissues than in non-GO orbital tissues (p = 0.009 and 0.005, respectively). Immunostaining of FGF10 in orbital adipose tissues showed differences in FGF10 expression between GO and control samples. Immunostaining of FGF10 was very weak in the orbital tissues of GO patients. TGF-β1-induced fibronectin, collagen Iα, α-smooth muscle actin protein expression in GO OFs was attenuated by rhFGF10 treatment and increased by knockdown of FGF10 via siFGF10 transfection. Similarly, IL-1β- or TNF-α-induced IL-6, IL-8, and cyclooxygenase-2 protein production in GO OFs was either blocked by rhFGF10 treatment or further upregulated by inhibition of FGF10 via siFGF10 transfection.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that FGF10 has beneficial effects on the inflammatory and fibrotic mechanisms of GO in primary cultured OFs, providing new insights into GO pathology and the discovery of FGF10 as a promising novel therapeutic application for the treatment of GO.
What are the biopsychosocial risk factors associated with pain in postpartum runners? Development of a clinical decision tool
Authors: Christopher Shefali Mathur , Cook Chad E. , Snodgrass Suzanne J.
Published: August 2021

Background

In 2019, a majority of runners participating in running events were female and 49% were of childbearing age. Studies have reported that women are initiating or returning to running after childbirth with up to 35% reporting pain. There are no studies exploring running-related pain or risk factors for this pain after childbirth in runners. Postpartum runners have a variety of biomechanical, musculoskeletal, and physiologic impairments from which to recover from when returning to high impact sports like running, which could influence initiating or returning to running. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify risk factors associated with running-related pain in postpartum runners with and without pain. This study also aimed to understand the compounding effects of multiple associative risk factors by developing a clinical decision tool to identify postpartum runners at higher risk for pain.

Methods

Postpartum runners with at least one child ≤36 months who ran once a week and postpartum runners unable to run because of pain, but identified as runners, were surveyed. Running variables (mileage, time to first postpartum run), postpartum variables (delivery type, breastfeeding, incontinence, sleep, fatigue, depression), and demographic information were collected. Risk factors for running-related pain were analyzed in bivariate regression models. Variables meeting criteria (P<0.15) were entered into a multivariate logistic regression model to create a clinical decision tool. The tool identified compounding factors that increased the probability of having running-related pain after childbirth.

Results

Analyses included 538 postpartum runners; 176 (32.7%) reporting running-related pain. Eleven variables were included in the multivariate model with six retained in the clinical decision tool: runner type-novice (OR 3.51; 95% CI 1.65, 7.48), postpartum accumulated fatigue score of >19 (OR 2.48; 95% CI 1.44, 4.28), previous running injury (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.31, 2.91), vaginal delivery (OR 1.63; 95% CI 1.06, 2.50), incontinence (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.31, 2.84) and <6.8 hours of sleep on average per night (OR 1.89; 95% CI 1.28, 2.78). Having ≥ 4 risk factors increased the probability of having running-related pain to 61.2%.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide a deeper understanding of the risk factors for running-related pain in postpartum runners. With this information, clinicians can monitor and educate postpartum runners initiating or returning to running. Education could include details of risk factors, combinations of factors for pain and strategies to mitigate risks. Coaches can adapt running workload accounting for fatigue and sleep fluctuations to optimize recovery and performance. Future longitudinal studies that follow asymptomatic postpartum women returning to running after childbirth over time should be performed to validate these findings.
The interobserver agreement of ECG abnormalities using Minnesota codes in people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Nijpels Giel , van der Heijden Amber A. W. A. , Elders Petra , Beulens Joline W. J. , de Vet Henrica C. W.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To assess the interobserver agreement in categories of electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities using the Minnesota Code criteria.

Methods

We used a random sample of 180 ECGs from people with type 2 diabetes. ECG abnormalities were classified and coded using the Minnesota ECG Classification. Each ECG was independently rated on several abnormalities by an experienced rater (rater 1) and by two cardiologists (raters 2 and 3) trained to apply the Minnesota codes on four Minnesota codes; 1-codes as an indication for myocardial infarction, 4 en 5-codes as an indication for ischemic abnormalities, 3-codes as an indication for left ventricle hypertrophy, 7-1-codes as an indication for ventricular conduction abnormalities, and 8-3-codes as an indication for atrial fibrillation / atrial flutter. After all pairwise tables were summed, the overall agreement, the specific positive and negative agreement were calculated with a 95% confidence interval (CI) for each abnormality. Also, Kappa’s with a 95% CI were calculated.

Results

The overall agreement (with 95% CI) were for myocardial infarction, ischemic abnormalities, left ventricle hypertrophy, conduction abnormalities and atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter respectively: 0.87 (0.84–0.91), 0.79 (0.74–0.84), 0.81 (0.76–0.85), 0.93 (0.90–0.95), 0.96 (0.93–0.97).

Conclusion

This study shows that the overall agreement of the Minnesota code is good to excellent.
Evaluation of availability, price, and affordability of cardiovascular, diabetes, and global medicines in Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Osuafor Nkeiruka Grace , Ukwe Chinwe Victoria , Okonta Mathew
Published: August 2021

Objective

To assess the availability, price, and affordability of cardiovascular, diabetes, and global medicines in Abuja, Nigeria.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey involving 27 private pharmacies, 13 public pharmacies, and 25 private hospital pharmacies in Abuja was conducted using the standardized World Health Organization/Health Action International methodology. The availability percentage for each pharmacy sector and each medicine was analyzed. The median price ratio (MPR) (ratio of the median price to the international reference prices) of the medicines were evaluated accordingly. Affordability was assessed by calculating the number of days’ wages the lowest-paid unskilled government worker required to purchase a month worth of the standard treatment for a chronic condition.

Results

The availability of cardiovascular (CV) medicines ranged from 28.4% (in private hospital pharmacies) to 59.9% (in private pharmacies). There was mixed variability in the mean availability of Originator Brands (OBs) and Lowest Priced Generics (LPGs) anti-diabetic drugs with the highest availability being OBs 36% and LPGs 40.2%, in private pharmacies and public pharmacies, respectively. The availability of global drugs ranged from 49.7% in private hospitals to 68.8% in private pharmacies. Two cardiovascular and four global medicines had greater than 80% availability across the pharmaceutical sectors. The median price ratio for OBs and LPGs was 9.60 and 1.72 for procurement, it was 8.08 and 2.60 in private pharmacies, 13.56 and 2.66 in public hospitals, and 16.38 and 7.89 in private hospitals. The percentage markup on LPG was 49.4% in public hospitals, 51.4% in private pharmacies, and 323% in private hospitals. Only nine medicines in both public hospitals and private pharmacies and two in the private hospital pharmacies required less than the daily wage of the lowest-paid government worker.

Conclusion

The availability of cardiovascular, diabetes, and global medicines was below 80% across the different pharmaceutical sectors in Abuja and the medicines were unaffordable. Although the prices were generally exorbitant, private pharmacies offered the best options in terms of availability, pricing, and affordability of medicines. Therefore, the results of this study emphasize the pertinence of enforcing policies that facilitate the availability, pricing, and affordability of cardiovascular, diabetes, and global medicines.
Peptide barcodes in dogs affected by mitral valve disease with and without pulmonary hypertension using MALDI-TOF MS and LC-MS/MS
Authors: Riengvirodkij Nattapon , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Jaresitthikunchai Janthima , Phaonakrop Narumon , Charoenlappanich Sawanya , Sakcamduang Walasinee
Published: August 2021

Mitral valve disease (MVD) is an important and most frequently acquired heart disease found in dogs. MVD is classified into different stages according to its severity. There is a challenge in differentiation between asymptomatic and symptomatic stages of the MVD. Moreover, pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication in dogs affected by MVD. In clinical practice, there are also some limitations to identify PH. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a technique that can characterize specific patterns of peptide mass called peptide barcodes from various samples. Besides, in combination with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), potential peptide sequences associated with specific conditions could be identified. The present study aimed to use MALDI-TOF coupled with LC-MS/MS to characterize specific peptide barcodes and potential peptide candidates in serum samples from healthy dogs, dogs with MVD stage B (MVD B, asymptomatic stage), MVD stage C (MVD C, symptomatic stage), MVD stage B with PH (MVD B PH), and MVD stage C with PH (MVD C PH). Discrete clusters of the 5 sample groups were identified by 3D plot analysis. Peptide barcodes also revealed differences in peptide patterns among the 5 groups. Six amino acid sequences of peptide candidates at 1,225.60, 1,363.85, 1,688.71, 1789.52, 2020.21, and 2156.42 Da were identified as part of the proteins CLCN1, CLUL1, EDNRA, PTEN, SLC39A7, and CLN6, respectively. The network interactions between these discovered proteins and common cardiovascular drugs were also investigated. These results demonstrate that MALDI-TOF MS has promise as an optional technique for diagnosing dogs affected by asymptomatic and symptomatic stages of MVD with and without PH. Further studies are required to identify peptide barcodes in dogs with other diseases to create peptide barcode databases in veterinary medicine before using this method as a novel diagnostic tool in the future.
Gender differences in perceived stress and coping among college students
Authors: Graves B. Sue , Hall Michael E. , Dias-Karch Carolyn , Haischer Michael H. , Apter Christine
Published: August 2021

Background

Many college students register each semester for courses, leading to productive careers and fulfilled lives. During this time, the students have to manage many stressors stemming from academic, personal, and, sometimes, work lives. Students, who lack appropriate stress management skills, may find it difficult to balance these responsibilities.

Objectives

This study examined stress, coping mechanisms, and gender differences in undergraduate students towards the end of the semester.

Design and method

University students (n = 448) enrolled in three different undergraduate exercise science courses were assessed. Two instruments, the Perceived Stress Scale and Brief Cope, were administered during the twelfth week of the semester, four weeks prior to final exams. T-tests were used to detect gender differences for the stress levels and coping strategies.

Results

Overall, females indicated higher levels of stress than their male counterparts. Gender differences were evident in both coping dimensions and individual coping strategies used. Females were found to utilize the emotion-focused coping dimension and endorsed the use of four coping strategies more often than males. These included self-distraction, emotional support, instrumental support, and venting.

Conclusions

This research adds to the existing literature by illuminating the level of perceived stress and different coping strategies used by undergraduate female and male students. In turn, students may need educational interventions to develop effective and healthy coping strategies to last a lifetime. Faculty and other university officials may want to highlight and understand these various factors to protect the students’ wellbeing in their classes.
Importance of applying Mixed Generalized Additive Model (MGAM) as a method for assessing the environmental health impacts: Ambient temperature and Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI), among elderly in Shanghai, China
Authors: Huang Xiaoqian , Ma Weiping , Law Chikin , Luo Jianfeng , Zhao Naiqing
Published: August 2021

Association between acute myocardial infarction (AMI) morbidity and ambient temperature has been examined with generalized linear model (GLM) or generalized additive model (GAM). However, the effect size by these two methods might be biased due to the autocorrelation of time series data and arbitrary selection of degree of freedom of natural cubic splines. The present study analyzed how the climatic factors affected AMI morbidity for older adults in Shanghai with Mixed generalized additive model (MGAM) that addressed these shortcomings mentioned. Autoregressive random effect was used to model the relationship between AMI and temperature, PM10, week days and time. The degree of freedom of time was chosen based on the seasonal pattern of temperature. The performance of MGAM was compared with GAM on autocorrelation function (ACF), partial autocorrelation function (PACF) and goodness of fit. One-year predictions of AMI counts in 2011 were conducted using MGAM with the moving average. Between 2007 and 2011, MGAM adjusted the autocorrelation of AMI time series and captured the seasonal pattern after choosing the degree of freedom of time at 5. Using MGAM, results were well fitted with data in terms of both internal (R2 = 0.86) and external validity (correlation coefficient = 0.85). The risk of AMI was relatively high in low temperature (Risk ratio = 0.988 (95% CI 0.984, 0.993) for under 12°C) and decreased as temperature increased and speeded up within the temperature zone from 12°C to 26°C (Risk ratio = 0.975 (95% CI 0.971, 0.979), but it become increasing again when it is 26°C although not significantly (Risk ratio = 0.999 (95% CI 0.986, 1.012). MGAM is more appropriate than GAM in the scenario of response variable with autocorrelation and predictors with seasonal variation. The risk of AMI was comparatively higher when temperature was lower than 12°C in Shanghai as a typical representative location of subtropical climate.
Reliability of ultrasound hepatorenal index and magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction techniques in the diagnosis of hepatic steatosis, with magnetic resonance spectroscopy as the reference standard
Authors: Tran Bien Van , Ujita Kouichi , Taketomi-Takahashi Ayako , Hirasawa Hiromi , Suto Takayuki , Tsushima Yoshito
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the reliability of ultrasound hepatorenal index (US-HRI) and magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) techniques in the diagnosis of hepatic steatosis, with magnetic resonance spectroscopy proton density fat fraction (MRS-PDFF) as the reference standard.

Materials and methods

Fifty-two adult volunteers (30 men, 22 women; age, 31.5 ± 6.5 years) who had no history of kidney disease or viral/alcoholic hepatitis were recruited to undergo abdominal US, MRI, and MRS examinations. US-HRI was calculated from the average of three pairs of regions of interest (ROIs) measurements placed in the liver parenchyma and right renal cortex. On MRI, the six-point Dixon technique was employed for calculating proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF). An MRS sequence with a typical voxel size of 27 ml was chosen to estimate MRS-PDFF as the gold standard. The data were evaluated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

The Pearson correlation coefficients of US-HRI and MRI-PDFF with MRS-PDFF were 0.38 (p= 0.005) and 0.95 (p<0.001), respectively. If MRS-PDFF ≥5.56% was defined as the gold standard of fatty liver disease, the areas under the curve (AUCs), cut-off values, sensitivities and specificities of US-HRI and MRI-PDFF were 0.74, 1.54, 50%, 91.7% and 0.99, 2.75%, 100%, 88.9%, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of US-HRI and MRI-PDFF were 0.70 and 0.85.

Conclusion

MRI-PDFF was more reliable than US-HRI in diagnosing hepatic steatosis.
Dairy production in an urbanizing environment—Typology and linkages in the megacity of Bengaluru, India
Authors: Reichenbach Marion , Pinto Ana , König Sven , Bhatta Raghavendra , Schlecht Eva
Published: August 2021

Urbanization is a main driver of agricultural transition in the Global South but how it shapes trends of intensification or extensification is not yet well understood. The Indian megacity of Bengaluru combines rapid urbanization with a high demand for dairy products, which is partly supplied by urban and peri-urban dairy producers. To study the impacts of urbanization on dairy production and to identify key features of dairy production systems across Bengaluru’s rural-urban interface, 337 dairy producers were surveyed on the socio-economic profile of their household, their dairy herd and management, resources availability and, in- and output markets. A two-step cluster analysis identified four spatially explicit dairy production systems based on urbanization level of their neighborhood, reliance on self-cultivated forages, pasture use, cattle in- and outflow and share of specialized dairy genotypes. The most extensive dairy production system, common to the whole rural-urban interface, utilized publicly available feed resources and pasture grounds rather than to cultivate forages. In rural areas, two semi-intensive and one intensive dairy production systems relying on self-cultivation of forage with or without pasture further distinguished themselves by their herd and breeding management. In rural areas, the village’s dairy cooperative, which also provided access to inputs such as exotic genotype through artificial insemination, concentrate feeds and health care, was often the only marketing channel available to dairy producers, irrespective of the dairy production system to which they belonged. In urban areas, milk was mostly sold through direct marketing or a middleman. Despite rapidly progressing urbanization and a population of 10 million, Bengaluru’s dairy sector still relies on small-scale family dairy farms. Shifts in resources availability, such as land and labor, are potential drivers of market-oriented intensification but also extensification of dairy production in an urbanizing environment.
Safety and feasibility of an in situ vaccination and immunomodulatory targeted radionuclide combination immuno-radiotherapy approach in a comparative (companion dog) setting
Authors: Magee Kara , Marsh Ian R. , Turek Michelle M. , Grudzinski Joseph , Aluicio-Sarduy Eduardo , Engle Jonathan W. , Kurzman Ilene D. , Zuleger Cindy L. , Oseid Elizabeth A. , Jaskowiak Christine , Albertini Mark R. , Esbona Karla , Bednarz Bryan , Sondel Paul M. , Weichert Jamey P. , Morris Zachary S. , Hernandez Reinier , Vail David M.
Published: August 2021

Rationale

Murine syngeneic tumor models have revealed efficacious systemic antitumor responses following primary tumor in situ vaccination combined with targeted radionuclide therapy to secondary or metastatic tumors. Here we present studies on the safety and feasibility of this approach in a relevant translational companion dog model (n = 17 dogs) with advanced cancer.

Methods

The three component of the combination immuno-radiotherapy approach were employed either separately or in combination in companion dogs with advanced stage cancer. In situ vaccination was achieved through the administration of hypofractionated external beam radiotherapy and intratumoral hu14.18-IL2 fusion immunocytokine injections to the index tumor. In situ vaccination was subsequently combined with targeted radionuclide therapy using a theranostic pairing of IV 86Y-NM600 (for PET imaging and subject-specific dosimetry) and IV 90Y-NM600 (therapeutic radionuclide) prescribed to deliver an immunomodulatory 2 Gy dose to all metastatic sites in companion dogs with metastatic melanoma or osteosarcoma. In a subset of dogs, immunologic parameters preliminarily assessed.

Results

The components of the immuno-radiotherapy combination were well tolerated either alone or in combination, resulting in only transient low grade (1 or 2) adverse events with no dose-limiting events observed. In subject-specific dosimetry analyses, we observed 86Y-NM600 tumor:bone marrow absorbed-dose differential uptakes ≥2 in 4 of 5 dogs receiving the combination, which allowed subsequent safe delivery of at least 2 Gy 90Y-NM600 TRT to tumors. NanoString gene expression profiling and immunohistochemistry from pre- and post-treatment biopsy specimens provide evidence of tumor microenvironment immunomodulation by 90Y-NM600 TRT.

Conclusions

The combination of external beam radiotherapy, intratumoral immunocytokine, and targeted radionuclide immuno-radiotherapy known to have activity against syngeneic melanoma in murine models is feasible and well tolerated in companion dogs with advanced stage, spontaneously arising melanoma or osteosarcoma and has immunomodulatory potential. Further studies evaluating the dose-dependent immunomodulatory effects of this immuno-radiotherapy combination are currently ongoing.
Obesity is independently associated with septic shock, renal complications, and mortality in a multiracial patient cohort hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Page-Wilson Gabrielle , Arakawa Rachel , Nemeth Samantha , Bell Fletcher , Girvin Zachary , Tuohy Mary-Claire , Lauring Max , Laferrère Blandine , Reyes-Soffer Gissette , Natarajan Karthik , Chen RuiJun , Kurlansky Paul , Korner Judith
Published: August 2021

Background

Obesity has emerged as a risk factor for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. To inform treatment considerations the relationship between obesity and COVID-19 complications and the influence of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic factors deserves continued attention.

Objective

To determine if obesity is an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19 complications and mortality and examine the relationship between BMI, race, ethnicity, distressed community index and COVID-19 complications and mortality.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 1,019 SARS-CoV-2 positive adult admitted to an academic medical center (n = 928) and its affiliated community hospital (n-91) in New York City from March 1 to April 18, 2020.

Results

Median age was 64 years (IQR 52–75), 58.7% were men, 23.0% were Black, and 52.8% were Hispanic. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 75.2%; median BMI was 28.5 kg/m2 (25.1–33.0). Over the study period 23.7% patients died, 27.3% required invasive mechanical ventilation, 22.7% developed septic shock, and 9.1% required renal replacement therapy (RRT). In the multivariable logistic regression model, BMI was associated with complications including intubation (Odds Ratio [OR]1.03, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]1.01–1.05), septic shock (OR 1.04, CI 1.01–1.06), and RRT (OR1.07, CI 1.04–1.10), and mortality (OR 1.04, CI 1.01–1.06). The odds of death were highest among those with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2 (OR 2.05, CI 1.04–4.04). Mortality did not differ by race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic distress score, though Black and Asian patients were more likely to require RRT.

Conclusions and relevance

Severe complications of COVID-19 and death are more likely in patients with obesity, independent of age and comorbidities. While race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status did not impact COVID-19 related mortality, Black and Asian patients were more likely to require RRT. The presence of obesity, and in some instances race, should inform resource allocation and risk stratification in patients hospitalized with COVID-19.
Local adaptation and coping strategies to global environmental changes: Portraying agroecology beyond production functions in southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Ofgeha Gemechu Y. , Abshare Muluneh W.
Published: August 2021

Background

The recent research recommendations on the adaptations of poor are toward local specific investigations, aimed at a comprehensive understanding of the adaptation strategies through in-depth analysis of the status, and the explicit on how climate and non-climate global change processes constrain the inherent strategies. Intent to this idea, we have designed this study to assess the small-scale farmers’ adaptation and coping strategies in southwestern Ethiopia.

Methods

The agroecology approach steered in case-study design was used for the conceptual and analytical framework. The data collected from 335 households were analyzed for descriptive and multivariate analysis of variance and substantiated by qualitative data obtained through focused group discussion, interview, and observations.

Results

The significant differences were observed in the watershed among households in the case studies on their adoption of the identified adaptation and coping strategies. The sustainability of preferred strategies was different along case studies, solely determined by the impact magnitude of the adaptations constraining factors. Although free ecosystem-based strategies become less practical and replacing by new strategies in the watershed, the processes were gradual, internal to the community and managed through adaptive learning in the highland. However, the paths were perceived as toward maladaptive, resulted by the state interventions which disrupted free adaptations, deteriorated adaptive learning of the community, and shaped the adaptation responses toward the interventions in the kolla agroecology.

Conclusions

The study implies that the situations of households’ adaptation strategies are beyond the reflections of their respective production ecology, designated within climate variability in the previous studies. The structural land use dynamics and associated resource tenure insecurity have greater constraining effects on the strategies than the impacts of climate variability in the kolla. Thus, subsequent research interested in such contexts, and any plan for the development interventions should (re)consider the impacts of non-climate national/and global environmental change in shaping the adaptation and coping strategies of the local community.
The influence of hydration status on ion transport in the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) skin—An in vitro study
Authors: Hołyńska-Iwan Iga , Smyk Paulina , Chrustek Agnieszka , Olszewska-Słonina Dorota , Szewczyk-Golec Karolina
Published: August 2021

The preservation of physiological transport of ions and water content is particularly important for maintaining the skin barrier, touch and pain stimuli, as well as the initiation of skin regeneration processes, especially after treatments associated with breaking skin continuity and wound healing difficulties. The aim of the study was to assess changes in ion transport, measured as values of transepithelial electric resistance and potential difference in stationary conditions and during mechanical-chemical stimulations, depending on the hydration status of isolated rabbit skin specimens. The specimens were divided into five groups: control (n = 22), dehydrated in 10% NaCl (n = 30), rehydrated after dehydration (n = 26), dried at 37°C (n = 26), and rehydrated after drying (n = 25). Dehydrated tissue samples showed altered resistance compared to the control; this change was maintained regardless of rehydration. In the dehydrated samples, changes in the measured electric potential were also noted, which returned to values comparable with the control after rehydration. Dehydrated skin, regardless of the cause of dehydration, responds with changes in the transport of sodium and chloride ions and the altered cellular microenvironment. It could influence the perception of stimuli, particularly pain, and slow down the regeneration processes.
Elucidate microbial characteristics in a full-scale treatment plant for offshore oil produced wastewater
Authors: Deng Shuyuan , Wang Bo , Zhang Wenda , Su Sanbao , Dong Hao , Banat Ibrahim M. , Sun Shanshan , Guo Jianping , Liu Weiming , Wang Linhai , She Yuehui , Zhang Fan
Published: August 2021

Oil-produced wastewater treatment plants, especially those involving biological treatment processes, harbor rich and diverse microbes. However, knowledge of microbial ecology and microbial interactions determining the efficiency of plants for oil-produced wastewater is limited. Here, we performed 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing to elucidate the microbial composition and potential microbial functions in a full-scale well-worked offshore oil-produced wastewater treatment plant. Results showed that microbes that inhabited the plant were diverse and originated from oil and marine associated environments. The upstream physical and chemical treatments resulted in low microbial diversity. Organic pollutants were digested in the anaerobic baffled reactor (ABR) dominantly through fermentation combined with sulfur compounds respiration. Three aerobic parallel reactors (APRs) harbored different microbial groups that performed similar potential functions, such as hydrocarbon degradation, acidogenesis, photosynthetic assimilation, and nitrogen removal. Microbial characteristics were important to the performance of oil-produced wastewater treatment plants with biological processes.
Childhood physical abuse and subsequent violent victimization among people who use illegal drugs in Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Sagram Julie , Lee William , Choi JinCheol , Milloy M.-J. , Hayashi Kanna , DeBeck Kora , Wood Evan , Kerr Thomas
Published: August 2021

Background

Violent victimization is common among people who use illegal drugs (PWUD) and is a source of significant health-related harm. However, little attention has been paid to how antecedent childhood trauma among PWUD may contribute to the risk of victimization in adulthood.

Objective

This study sought to examine the relationship between childhood physical abuse and victimization by physical assault among adult PWUD.

Participants and setting

Data were derived from three prospective cohorts of PWUD in Vancouver, Canada between 2005 and 2018.

Methods

Childhood physical abuse was assessed using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Generalized linear mixed modeling was used to estimate the relationship between childhood physical abuse and subsequent violent victimization, after adjustment for potential confounders.

Results

Among 2960 PWUD, including 1018 (34.39%) female participants, 1030 (34.8%) participants reported a history of moderate to severe childhood physical abuse, and 949 (32.06%) participants reported recent violent victimization at baseline. In a multivariate analysis, childhood physical abuse (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23–1.46) remained independently associated with violent victimization after adjustment for potential confounders.

Conclusions

This study found a high prevalence of childhood physical abuse and that this was associated with a higher risk of subsequent violent victimization among PWUD in this setting. Greater support for PWUD with a history of childhood physical abuse is needed to decrease existing vulnerability to violence, including screening for and treatment of childhood trauma and related violence prevention.
Herpes zoster epidemiology in Latin America: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bardach Ariel Esteban , Palermo Carolina , Alconada Tomás , Sandoval Macarena , Balan Darío Javier , Nieto Guevara Javier , Gómez Jorge , Ciapponi Agustin
Published: August 2021

The epidemiology and burden of Herpes Zoster (HZ) are largely unknown, and there are no recent reviews summarizing the available evidence from the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to characterize the epidemiology and burden of HZ in LAC. Bibliographic databases and grey literature sources were consulted to find studies published (January 2000 –February 2020) with epidemiological endpoints: cumulative incidence and incidence density (HZ cases per 100,000 person-years), prevalence, case-fatality rates, HZ mortality, hospitalization rates, and rates of each HZ complication. Twenty-six studies were included with most studies coming from Brazil. No studies reported the incidence of HZ in the general population. In population at higher risk, the cumulative incidence ranged from 318–3,423 cases of HZ per 100,000 persons per year of follow-up. The incidence density was 6.4–36.5 cases per 1,000 person-years. Age was identified as a major risk factor towards HZ incidence which increase significantly in people >50 years of age. Hospitalization rates ranged from 3%–35.7%. The in-hospital HZ mortality rate ranged from 0%–36%. Overall, HZ mortality rates were found to be higher in females across all age groups and countries. The incidence of HZ complications (such as post-herpetic neuralgia, ophthalmic herpes zoster, and Ramsay Hunt syndrome) was higher in the immunosuppressed compared to the immunocompetent population. Acyclovir was the most frequently used therapy. Epidemiological data from Ministry of Health databases (Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile y Mexico) and Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation’s Global Burden of Disease project reported stable rates of hospitalizations and deaths over the last 10 years. High-risk groups for HZ impose a considerable burden in LAC. They could benefit from directed healthcare initiatives, including adult immunization, to prevent HZ occurrence and its complications.
Placental histopathology in preterm birth with confirmed maternal infection: A systematic literature review
Authors: Min Aung Myat , Saito Makoto , Simpson Julie A. , Kennedy Stephen H. , Nosten François H. , McGready Rose
Published: August 2021

Four in five neonatal deaths of preterm births occur in low and middle income countries and placental histopathology examination can help clarify the pathogenesis. Infection is known to play a significant role in preterm birth. The aim of this systematic review is to explore the association between placental histopathological abnormality and preterm birth in the presence of confirmed infection. PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase were searched using the keywords related to preterm birth, placental histopathology and infection. Titles and abstracts were screened and the full texts of eligible articles were reviewed to extract and summarise data. Of 1529 articles, only 23 studies (13 bacterial, 6 viral and 4 parasitic) were included, and they used 7 different gestational age windows, and 20 different histopathological classification systems, precluding data pooling. Despite this, histopathological chorioamnionitis, and funisitis (when examined) were commonly observed in preterm birth complicated by confirmed bacterial or viral, but not parasitic, infection. The presence of malaria parasites but not pigment in placenta was reported to increase the risk of PTB, but this finding was inconclusive. One in three studies were conducted in low and middle income countries. An array of: definitions of preterm birth subgroups, histological classification systems, histopathologic abnormalities and diagnostic methods to identify infections were reported in this systematic review. Commitment to using standardised terminology and classification of histopathological abnormalities associated with infections is needed to identify causality and potential treatment of preterm birth. Studies on preterm birth needs to occur in high burden countries and control for clinical characteristics (maternal, fetal, labor, and placental) that may have an impact on placental histopathological abnormalities.
Improved objective Bayesian estimator for a PLP model hierarchically represented subject to competing risks under minimal repair regime
Authors: Louzada Francisco , Cuminato José A. , Rodriguez Oscar M. H. , Tomazella Vera L. D. , Ferreira Paulo H. , Ramos Pedro L. , Milani Eder A. , Bochio Gustavo , Perissini Ivan C. , Gonzatto Junior Oilson A. , Mota Alex L. , Alegría Luis F. A. , Colombo Danilo , Perondi Eduardo A. , Wentz André V. , Júnior Anselmo L. Silva , Barone Dante A. C. , Santos Hugo F. L. , Magalhães Marcus V. C.
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we propose a hierarchical statistical model for a single repairable system subject to several failure modes (competing risks). The paper describes how complex engineered systems may be modelled hierarchically by use of Bayesian methods. It is also assumed that repairs are minimal and each failure mode has a power-law intensity. Our proposed model generalizes another one already presented in the literature and continues the study initiated by us in another published paper. Some properties of the new model are discussed. We conduct statistical inference under an objective Bayesian framework. A simulation study is carried out to investigate the efficiency of the proposed methods. Finally, our methodology is illustrated by two practical situations currently addressed in a project under development arising from a partnership between Petrobras and six research institutes.
A network formation game for the emergence of hierarchies
Authors: Cisneros-Velarde Pedro , Bullo Francesco
Published: August 2021

We propose a novel network formation game that explains the emergence of various hierarchical structures in groups where self-interested or utility-maximizing individuals decide to establish or severe relationships of authority or collaboration among themselves. We consider two settings: we first consider individuals who do not seek the other party’s consent when establishing a relationship and then individuals who do. For both settings, we formally relate the emerged hierarchical structures with the novel inclusion of well-motivated hierarchy promoting terms in the individuals’ utility functions. We first analyze the game via a static analysis and characterize all the hierarchical structures that can be formed as its solutions. We then consider the game played dynamically under stochastic interactions among individuals implementing better-response dynamics and analyze the nature of the converged networks.
Influenza vaccination hesitancy in large urban centers in South America. Qualitative analysis of confidence, complacency and convenience across risk groups
Authors: González-Block Miguel Ángel , Pelcastre-Villafuerte Blanca Estela , Riva Knauth Daniela , Fachel-Leal Andréa , Comes Yamila , Crocco Pedro , Noboa Laura , Rodríguez Zea Berenice , Ruoti Mónica , Díaz Portillo Sandra Patricia , Sarti Elsa
Published: August 2021

Influenza vaccination coverage in countries of Latin America is low among priority risk groups, ranging from 5 to 75% among older people. This paper aims to describe and analyze the determinants of influenza vaccination hesitancy through the lens of the 3C model of confidence, complacency and convenience among middle-class, urban risk group populations in Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, countries in South America with contrasting vaccination coverage. Focus groups were conducted among four risk groups: pregnant women, mothers of children aged <6 years, adults with risk factors, and adults aged ≥60 years in samples of urban residents. Adults with risk factors expressed the most detailed perceptions about confidence in the vaccine. A wide range of perceptions regarding complacency were expressed across risk groups and countries, with pregnant women and mothers showing greater concerns while convenience had a narrower and generally more positive range of perceptions. Participants from Chile and Paraguay expressed the most contrasts regarding confidence and complacency. Information and communication strategies need to be tailored for risk groups while confidence and complacency should be addressed in synergy.
Marine predators algorithm for solving single-objective optimal power flow
Authors: Islam Mohammad Zohrul , Othman Mohammad Lutfi , Abdul Wahab Noor Izzri , Veerasamy Veerapandiyan , Opu Saifur Rahman , Inbamani Abinaya , Annamalai Vishalakshi
Published: August 2021

This study presents a nature-inspired, and metaheuristic-based Marine predator algorithm (MPA) for solving the optimal power flow (OPF) problem. The significant insight of MPA is the widespread foraging strategy called the Levy walk and Brownian movements in ocean predators, including the optimal encounter rate policy in biological interaction among predators and prey which make the method to solve the real-world engineering problems of OPF. The OPF problem has been extensively used in power system operation, planning, and management over a long time. In this work, the MPA is analyzed to solve the single-objective OPF problem considering the fuel cost, real and reactive power loss, voltage deviation, and voltage stability enhancement index as objective functions. The proposed method is tested on IEEE 30-bus test system and the obtained results by the proposed method are compared with recent literature studies. The acquired results demonstrate that the proposed method is quite competitive among the nature-inspired optimization techniques reported in the literature.