bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient solver of predictive control methods for motion control of autonomous vehicles with experimental verification
Authors: Zhao Yang , Ge Linhe , Zhong Shouren , Shan Zitong
Published: May 2022

Real-time performance is one of the major challenges for optimal control and MPC control. In this paper, a novel general open-source C++ MPC solver based on state-of-the-art sparse QP solver OSQP is designed to solve the motion control problem of autonomous vehicles efficiently. A new linear dynamic model is proposed by replacing heading angle error with planning lateral projection speed, whose measurement is independent of the measurement of heading angle. A general local linearization method for the nonlinear tire model is proposed. Through the theory of offset-free MPC control, the steady-state value problem is solved caused by a disturbance in the time domain systematically. The algorithm in this paper is implemented in ROS, which means that the algorithm can be directly used in the prototype development of autonomous vehicles. The proposed MPC solver can solve a linear time-varying or time-invariant system, with or without disturbances. It is very efficient and can handle different kinds of hard and soft constraints. A real-time simulation platform based on Unreal Engine 4 and CarSim is designed to verify the algorithm’s effectiveness. Real-time simulations and real vehicle experiments verify the efficiency of the algorithm.
Increasing access to HIV testing for men who have sex with men in Japan using digital vending machine technology
Authors: Kaneko Noriyo , Sherriff Nigel , Takaku Michiko , Vera Jaime H , Peralta Carlos , Iwahashi Kohta , Ishida Toshihiko , Mirandola Massimo
Published: May 2022

Background: In Japan, most new HIV cases are reported amongst men who have sex with men (MSM); thus, there is an urgent need for further widespread testing of MSM. The use of Digital Vending Machines (DVM) in the UK offering HIV test kits targeting MSM show promising results. Digital Vending Machines could be useful to promote and increase the uptake of testing in Japan, although no studies have yet been conducted. We aimed to assess the acceptability and feasibility of distributing HIV test kits using DVMs exploring needs and concerns as well as preferred types of test kits and locations.

Methods: Fifty-four individuals participated in workshops and meetings with a further 224 MSM answering a quantitative survey assessing HIV testing and prevention needs.

Results: Amongst MSM who had never been tested, 73% showed willingness to purchase tests from DVMs. Responses were broadly positive about DVMs but there were concerns regarding being seen receiving test kits from the machines and linkage to confirmatory testing and appropriate care.

Conclusions: Using DVMs to distribute HIV test kits in Japan was found to be both acceptable and feasible and may have the potential to increase access to testing for MSM. Future large-scale evaluation studies are required.
Midline peripheral catheters inserted in the superficial femoral vein at mid-thigh: Wise choice in COVID-19 acute hypoxemic respiratory failure patients with helmet continuous positive airway pressure
Authors: Gidaro Antonio , Samartin Federica , Salvi Emanuele , Casella Francesco , Cogliati Chiara , Giustivi Davide , Lugli Francesca , Trione Chiara , Melchionda Chiara , Bartoli Arianna , Foschi Antonella , Schiavini Monica , Schiuma Marco , Castelli Roberto , Calloni Maria
Published: May 2022

Background:

During coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Helmet Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (h-CPAP) has been widely used to treat Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure (AHRF). In COVID-19 patients undergoing h-CPAP a simple short peripheral catheter could be insufficient. According to the European Recommendations for Proper Indication and Use of Peripheral venous access consensus, a stable peripheral Vascular Access Device is indicated for intravenous treatment compatible with the peripheral route scheduled for more than 1 week.

Objective:

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the performance and the potential complications of superficial femoral midline catheters (SFMC) inserted in the Superficial Femoral Vein by direct Seldinger technique with peripheral tip (Arrow®, Teleflex; 20 cm length four FR single lumen and seven FR dual lumen) in AHRF COVID-19 patient. Complications were divided in early (accidental puncture of superficial femoral artery (APSFA); accidental saphenous nerve puncture (ASNP); bleeding) and late (Catheter Related Thrombosis (CRT); Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections (CRBSI); Accidental Removal (AR); persistent withdrawal occlusion (PWO)).

Methods:

From 1st October 2020 to 30th June 2021 we conducted a prospective observational study in COVID-19 sub-intensive wards at Luigi Sacco Hospital (Milan).

Results:

Hundred seventy five SFMC (mean dwell time 11.1 ± 9.8 days) were implanted in COVID-19 patients, 107 (61.1%) during h-CPAP treatment (10.5 ± 8.9 days), the remaining 68 (38.9%) in patients with severe disease. We recorded two minor immediate/early complications (APSFA without sequelae) and no major complications. The long-term follow-up registered four CRBSI (2.3%–2.5/1000 catheters days (CD)), five CRT (2.9%: 2.6/1000 CD), 22 AR (12.6%; 11.4/1000 CD), 38 PWO (36.5%), 34 of which occurred due to fibroblastic sleeve (32.7%).

Conclusions:

SFMC proved to be safe, easy and time-saving. It could be implemented, after a careful benefits and risks evaluation, in particular settings such as h-CPAP, delirium, bleeding risk factors and palliative care patients.
How teacher behaviour shapes foreign language learners’ enjoyment, anxiety and attitudes/motivation: A mixed modelling longitudinal investigation
Authors: Dewaele Jean-Marc , Saito Kazuya , Halimi Florentina
Published: May 2022

The current study investigates how foreign language enjoyment (FLE), foreign language classroom anxiety (FLCA) and attitude/motivation (AM) of 360 learners of English, German, French and Spanish in a Kuwaiti university was shaped over the course of one semester by three teacher behaviours: frequency of using the foreign language (FL) in class, predictability and frequency of joking. Linear mixed modelling revealed a positive relationship between the three teacher behaviours and FLE as well as AM, but no significant relationship emerged with FLCA. Multiple comparison analyses showed that levels of FLE dropped significantly among students whose teacher joked very infrequently and infrequently. It thus seems that the absence of teacher jokes had a delayed cumulative effect on FLE. No interaction effects were found with time for FLCA and for AM. We conclude that teacher behaviours affect both AM and FLE, and that frequency of joking actually shapes FLE over time.
Research status and prospect of plate elements in absolute nodal coordinate formulation
Authors: Zhang Zhaowei , Ren Wu , Zhou Weijia
Published: May 2022

The Absolute Nodal Coordinate Formulation (ANCF) is a milestone in the study of flexible multibody dynamics and is of great significance for the study of the dynamics of multi-flexible systems, of which the plate element is an important part. In this article, the construction and principles of this type of element are systematically traced, the types of elements that have been studied are summarized, and the research history of the element locking problem and extended applications in different fields are briefly described. Through the systematic summary, the shortcomings in the current research and application of the element are identified, and some suggestions for future theoretical research on the plate element are given. The functional expansion of the plate element under the conditions of constraints, materials and physical fields as well as practical engineering applications are discussed.
Landing in affective atmospheres
Authors: Preece Chloe , Rodner Victoria , Rojas-Gaviria Pilar
Published: May 2022

Studies on affect and affective atmospheres have been a topic of increasing interest in marketing, particularly in the management of consumption and retail spaces where service providers attempt to orchestrate a prescribed, collective affective response in consumers. This paper draws on the work of Sara Ahmed and Margaret Wetherell to bring the subject back to the fore, providing a more fine-grained theorisation of how individuals land in such atmospheres. We articulate surfacing and sticking as key dimensions of landing, highlighting the heterogeneity of our landing, whereby affect is individually felt through bodily reactions due to how our personal affective history intersects with the socio-political context. Using a poetic affective attunement method, we capture intensely affective atmospheres, namely spirit-permeated religious settings in Brazil; demonstrating how landing results in different orientations or disorientations through which often elided emotional experiences come into view, privileging some subjects and objects whilst disadvantaging others.
The Knickerbocker Technique: Technical Aspects and Single-Center Results of a New Endovascular Method for False Lumen Occlusion in Chronic Aortic Dissection
Authors: Rohlffs Fiona , Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Panuccio Giuseppe , Heidemann Franziska , Behrendt Christian-Alexander , Kölbel Tilo
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

To describe the technical aspects and early results of a new endovascular fenestration method for false lumen occlusion in chronic aortic dissection: the Knickerbocker Technique.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study including all consecutively treated patients between November 1, 2012, through May 31, 2016, who underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair with false lumen occlusion using the Knickerbocker Technique for thoracic false lumen aneurysm in chronic aortic dissection in a tertiary care center. Primary endpoints consisted of technical (correct deployment of the stent-graft) and clinical (false lumen occlusion) success. Secondary endpoints included overall survival and morbidity after 30 days. In 12 patients, follow-up computed tomography angiogram (CTA) was available and aortic remodeling was evaluated.

Results:

We identified 16 eligible patients (75% men, mean age: 69 years, range: 52–80 years). Technical success was 94%. Overall survival after 30 days was 100%; there was 1 aortic reintervention (additional false lumen embolization due to endoleak type 1a in 1 patient). Median total follow-up was 31.5 months (range: 3–66 months). Four (25%) of 16 patients died during follow-up, in 3 of those patients the cause of death is unknown, and 1 patient developed cardiac tamponade after being treated by fenestrated thoracic endovascular aortic repair. Imaging follow-up with CTA was available in 12 patients (median imaging follow-up: 27.5 months, range: 1–57 months). Nine (75%) of 12 patients showed thoracic aortic remodeling, and in 3 patients aneurysm size was stable. No patient showed aneurysm growth.

Conclusion:

The Knickerbocker Technique is a feasible endovascular fenestration method to achieve false lumen occlusion and aortic remodeling in chronic aortic dissection with low invasiveness.
Nonagenarians and Octogenarians Undergoing THA and TKA: A 10-Year Age Difference Increases Rates of In-Hospital Complications But Does Not Affect 90-Day Outcomes
Authors: Fleisher Ilan , Ong Christian B. , Chiu Yu-Fen , Krell Ethan , Cushner Fred D. , Gausden Elizabeth , Boettner Friedrich , Gonzalez Della Valle Alejandro
Published: May 2022

Background:

The population of nonagenarians undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA) of the hip or knee is expected to increase, but this population may be reluctant to consider elective surgery because of their advanced age.

Purpose:

We sought to compare TJA outcomes between nonagenarians and octogenarians with an exact 10-year age difference.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective chart review, including 129 nonagenarians who underwent primary unilateral TJA for osteoarthritis in a 4-year period at a single institution and who were matched with 381 octogenarians based on sex, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, replaced joint (hip or knee), and a 10-year age difference. Ninety-day outcomes included Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) defined complications, unscheduled outpatient clinic visits, emergency room (ER) visits, and readmissions. No patients were lost to follow-up.

Results:

Nonagenarians and octogenarians had comparable rates of CMS complications (10% vs 6.3%, respectively), but nonagenarians had higher rates of CMS mechanical complications (6.2% vs 1.6%). There was 1 death in each group. Nonagenarians had longer hospital stays than octogenarians (4.1 vs 3.0 days, respectively), and a greater risk of in-hospital events and complications (60.5% vs 37.3%, respectively). The groups showed similar rates of unscheduled outpatient visits (14.7% vs 13.9%, respectively), ER visits (12.4 vs 6.6%, respectively), and readmissions (6.2% vs 7.1%, respectively).

Conclusions:

This retrospective study found higher rates of in-hospital complications in nonagenarians than in matched octogenarians following elective TJA, although the 2 groups showed similar rates of postdischarge complications. Further research in a larger cohort is needed.
Study on foot-type classification for young adults based on static and dynamic plantar pressure distribution
Authors: Tang Xinyao , Wang Xupeng , Ji Xiaomin , Wang Yunqian , Chen Wenhui , Wei Yuchen , Zhou Yawen
Published: May 2022

The application of an effective and reliable foot type classification method is very important for foot type judgment, injury risk assessment, and correction. Therefore, this paper mainly aims to propose a new foot type classification method for young people based on bitmap index (BI), compare it with the traditional footprint classification method, and put forward and analyze the factors affecting foot type classification. Thirty-one healthy volunteers were asked to perform two types tests in order to study the plantar pressure distribution with static and dynamic conditions, the first type is footprint test with full load of static, and the other type is plantar pressure distribution, which contains four different tests: no load, half load, and full load of static state, as well as dynamic plantar pressure distribution during process of walking. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient results (ICC) were good reliable and reproducible for BI value with dynamic test (DT-BI value 0.738, 95% confidence interval [0.535, 0.848], [Formula: see text]) and full-load (FL-BI value 0.725 [0.281, 0.814], [Formula: see text], p < 0.001), obtained with individual measures and a two-way mixed-effects model. It can be seen from Kappa coefficient and density map that DT-BI has high classification accuracy. Classification of foot type based on bitmap index values showed good reliability in people with varying BMI, which can help clinicians and researchers segment the sample population to better distinguish between different foot types of activity, gait or treatment effects.
Toward Building Surge Capacity: Potentially Effective Spatial Configurations in Emergency Departments
Authors: Valipoor Shabboo , Hakimjavadi Hesamedin , Nobles Patrick M.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Emergency departments (EDs) have been struggling with overcrowding issues for years. Some spatial configurations have been proposed to improve ED performance in facing overcrowding. Despite similarities with mass casualty incidents (MCIs), when demand for care exceeds the capacity, little is documented about the application of the proposed configurations during MCIs to improve surge capacity.

Objectives:

We aimed to explore the potential of spatial configurations that have been proposed to handle ED overcrowding in daily operations so as to improve surge capacity during MCIs.

Methods:

Using an online Likert-scale survey, 11 spatial design strategies were rated by ED care teams in terms of their potential to improve surge capacity during MCIs.

Results:

Responses from 72 participants revealed that establishing an in-house lab was perceived as the most potential strategy, followed by rapid care area, internal waiting rooms, and in-house imaging. In contrast, separate entrance and exit doors, as well as decentralized nurse stations, were perceived as the least potential strategies but also exhibited the most variance in response. Respondents’ comments implied that their choice of in-house ancillary services was primarily to improve communication and to reduce turnaround time and risk of errors. Their choice of rapid care and internal waiting areas related to improved flexibility.

Conclusions:

Understanding clinicians’ perspectives on potentially effective spatial configurations aids in implementing balanced strategies to better equip EDs to handle overcrowding in daily operations and manage surges during MCIs.
Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Associated With Athletic Activity
Authors: Loder Randall T. , Gunderson Zachary J. , Sun Seungyup , Liu Raymond W. , Novais Eduardo V.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Little data exist regarding the association of slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) and sporting activities.

Hypothesis:

There is no association between SCFE and sporting activities.

Study Design:

Retrospective review of all SCFE cases at our institution from 2010 through March 2021.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

All patients with idiopathic SCFE were reviewed looking for the presence/absence of sporting activities and symptom onset. Also collected were the age, symptom duration, and weight/height of the patient, sex, race, and stable/unstable nature of the SCFE. The severity of the SCFE was measured using the lateral epiphyseal-shaft angle.

Results:

There were 193 children (110 boys, 83 girls) with idiopathic SCFEs. The SCFE was stable in 147, unstable in 45, and unknown in 1. The average age was 12.1 ± 1.8 years, average SCFE angle 38° ± 20° and symptom duration 4.0 ± 5.1 months. An association with a sporting activity was present in 64 (33%). The sporting activity was basketball (18), football (11), baseball/softball (10), and others (23). Football, basketball, and soccer predominated in boys, baseball and running sports were equal between boys and girls, and cheerleading/gymnastics/dancing predominated in girls. Differences showed that those involved in sports had a slightly lower body mass index (BMI) (88th percentile vs 95th percentile, P = 0.00). There were no differences between those involved and those not those involved in sporting activities for symptom duration, SCFE severity, sex, race, or stable/unstable SCFE type.

Conclusion:

Sporting activities are associated with the onset of symptoms in 1 of 3 of patients with SCFE, refuting the null hypothesis.

Clinical Relevance:

A high level of suspicion for SCFE should be given when any peripubertal athlete presents with hip or knee pain regardless of BMI/obesity status, and appropriate imaging performed.
Rights of nature, human species identity, and political thought in the anthropocene
Authors: Epstein Seth
Published: May 2022

While much has been written about the efforts in multiple jurisdictions to recognize nature and natural features as rightsholders, there has been relatively little research into the relationship of these Rights of Nature developments to the Anthropocene. This article uses historian Dipesh Chakrabarty’s argument for the adoption of a human species identity in the Anthropocene as a jumping off point to analyze how legal rights for nature, such as those enacted in the Ecuador and New Zealand, can help address what Chakrabarty identifies as the challenges the Anthropocene presents to contemporary political thought. These pressing challenges include how to politicize relations between humans and non-humans, extend justice and the sphere of human morality to non-humans, cope with human limitations on our abilities to represent non-humans, and to initiate a withdrawal from a human-dominated world that is a common though uneven legacy of imperialism, capitalism, and globalization. The article argues that by providing responses to these challenges, Rights of Nature laws may also further the development of a human species identity. However, it also qualifies this conclusion in several important regards. First, the more expansive of these protections, embracing all of nature within political boundaries and relying on a remedial approach to justice and broad notions of representation in fact may hinder the adoption of the kind of species identity for which Chakrabarty has called. Second, as a cosmopolitan identity, this identity may be inhibited by continued circumscription of Rights of Nature by notions of state sovereignty.
A Reappraisal of Oxandrolone in Burn Management
Authors: Kopel Jonathan , Sorensen Grant , Griswold John
Published: May 2022

Objective: Burn injuries remain among the most severe traumatic injuries globally. With the discovery of cortisol, the use of steroids has become an essential therapy for the management of inflammatory and metabolic conditions. Several studies have shown the steroid oxandrolone improves burn injuries through stimulating anabolic and reducing catabolic processes. In this review, we examine the efficacy and applications of oxandrolone with regard to burn management and treatment. Data Sources: A literature search was performed using the PubMed database from January 1990 to May 2020 to identify articles on oxandrolone and burn management. A total of 18 studies were included in our review. Study Selection and Criteria: The keywords used in our search strategy for PubMed included “oxandrolone” and “burns.” Data Synthesis: The main benefit of oxandrolone is the improved long-term lean body, protein, and bone mineral mass of burn patients. In addition, 3 separate meta-analyses showed oxandrolone shortened length of hospital stay, donor-site healing time, reduced weight loss, and net protein loss. However, oxandrolone therapy did not affect mortality, infection, or liver function. Conclusion: Oxandrolone remains an effective therapy for reducing the hypermetabolic response and comorbidities from burn injuries. Future clinical trials are needed using larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up to determine whether oxandrolone in the context of rehabilitation programs can reduce mortality, lower treatment costs, and improve function outcomes among burn patients.
Integrated stratigraphic, sedimentological and petrographical evaluation for CERN’s Future Circular Collider subsurface infrastructure (Geneva Basin, Switzerland-France)
Authors: Haas Maximilian , Carraro Davide , Ventra Dario , Plötze Michael , De Haller Antoine , Moscariello Andrea
Published: May 2022

The European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) is currently undertaking a feasibility study to build the next-generation particle accelerator, named the Future Circular Collider (FCC), hosted in a 90–100 km subsurface infrastructure in the Geneva Basin, extending across western Switzerland and adjacent France. This article represents a preliminary, basin-scale stratigraphic and lithotype analysis using state-of-the-art Swiss and French stratigraphic terminology, set in context with the FCC. Existing stratigraphic information, rock cores and well reports, laboratory analyses and geophysical well-logs from 661 wells representative for the construction area have been integrated to pave the way for a multidisciplinary approach across several geoscientific and engineering domains to guide the FCC’s upcoming technical design phase. Comparisons with well-log data allowed the identification of rock formations and lithotypes, as well as to formulate a preliminary assessment of potential geological hazards. Regional stratigraphic evaluation revealed the FCC’s intersection of 13 geological formations comprising 25 different lithotypes across the Geneva Basin. A lack of data remains for the western to south-western subsurface region of the FCC construction area shown by well-density coverage modelling. The main geological hazards are represented by karstic intervals in the Grand Essert Formation’s Neuchâtel Member, Vallorbe and Vuache formations, associated to fractured limestone lithotypes, and Cenozoic formations represented by the pure to clayey sandstone-bearing Transition zone and Siderolithic Formation. Potential swelling hazard is associated to the presence of anhydrite, and claystone lithotypes of the Molasse Rouge and Grès et Marnes Gris à gypse formations, yielding up to 17.2% of smectite in the Molasse Rouge formation. Hydrocarbon indices in both gaseous and bituminous forms are encountered in the majority of investigated wells, and bear a potential environmental hazard associated with the Molasse Rouge deposits and fractured limestones of the Mesozoic Jura formations.
Involvement of the TNF-α/SATB2 axis in the induced apoptosis and inhibited autophagy of osteoblasts by the antipsychotic Risperidone
Authors: Zhang Shuyao , He Wei , Li Aiguo , Zhao Chengkuan , Chen Yun , Xu Chengcheng , Zhang Qiuzhen , Zheng Danling , Chen Meini , Miao Haixiong , Huang Yihui
Published: May 2022

Background

Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic, impedes serotonin and dopamine receptor systems. Meanwhile, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is known to participate in regulating osteoblast functions. Consequently, the current study aimed to investigate whether the influences of Risperidone on osteoblast functions are associated with TNF-α and special AT-rich sequence-binding protein (SATB2).

Methods

Firstly, we searched the DGIdb, MEM and GeneCards databases to identify the critical factors involved in the effects of Risperidone on osteoblasts, as well as their interactions. Afterwards, osteoblast cell line MC3T3-E1 was transduced with lentivirus carrying si-TNF-α, si-SATB2 or both and subsequently treated with Risperidone. Various abilities including differentiation, autophagy and apoptosis of osteoblasts were examined after different treatments. Finally, animal experiments were performed with Risperidone alone or together with lentivirus to verify the function of Risperidone in vivo and the mechanism.

Results

It was found that Risperidone might promote TNF-α expression, thereby inhibiting the expression of SATB2 to affect the autophagy and apoptosis in osteoblasts. Furthermore, as shown by our experimental findings, Risperidone treatment inhibited the differentiation and autophagy, and promoted the apoptosis of osteoblasts, as evidenced by elevated levels of OPG, p62, cleaved PARP1, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-8, and cleaved caspase-9, and reduced levels of LC3 II/I, Beclin1, collagen I, and RANKL. In addition, Risperidone was also found to elevate the expression of TNF-α to down-regulate SATB2, thereby inhibiting the differentiation and autophagy and enhancing the apoptosis of osteoblasts in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions

Collectively, our findings indicated that Risperidone affects the differentiation of osteoblasts by inhibiting autophagy and enhancing apoptosis via TNF-α-mediated down-regulation of SATB2.
KnotAli: informed energy minimization through the use of evolutionary information
Authors: Gray Mateo , Chester Sean , Jabbari Hosna
Published: May 2022

Background

Improving the prediction of structures, especially those containing pseudoknots (structures with crossing base pairs) is an ongoing challenge. Homology-based methods utilize structural similarities within a family to predict the structure. However, their prediction is limited to the consensus structure, and by the quality of the alignment. Minimum free energy (MFE) based methods, on the other hand, do not rely on familial information and can predict structures of novel RNA molecules. Their prediction normally suffers from inaccuracies due to their underlying energy parameters.

Results

We present a new method for prediction of RNA pseudoknotted secondary structures that combines the strengths of MFE prediction and alignment-based methods. KnotAli takes a multiple RNA sequence alignment as input and uses covariation and thermodynamic energy minimization to predict possibly pseudoknotted secondary structures for each individual sequence in the alignment. We compared KnotAli’s performance to that of three other alignment-based programs, two that can handle pseudoknotted structures and one control, on a large data set of 3034 RNA sequences with varying lengths and levels of sequence conservation from 10 families with pseudoknotted and pseudoknot-free reference structures. We produced sequence alignments for each family using two well-known sequence aligners (MUSCLE and MAFFT).

Conclusions

We found KnotAli’s performance to be superior in 6 of the 10 families for MUSCLE and 7 of the 10 for MAFFT. While both KnotAli and Cacofold use background noise correction strategies, we found KnotAli’s predictions to be less dependent on the alignment quality. KnotAli can be found online at the Zenodo image: 10.5281/zenodo.5794719
Bacterial community and chemical profiles of oil-polluted sites in selected cities of Uganda: potential for developing a bacterial-based product for remediation of oil-polluted sites
Authors: Ssenku Jamilu E. , Walusansa Abdul , Oryem-Origa Hannington , Ssemanda Paul , Ntambi Saidi , Omujal Francis , Mustafa Abubakar Sadik
Published: May 2022

Background

Oil spills are ranked among the greatest global challenges to humanity. In Uganda, owing to the forthcoming full-scale production of multi-billion barrels of oil, the country’s oil pollution burden is anticipated to escalate, necessitating remediation. Due to the unsuitability of several oil clean-up technologies, the search for cost-effective and environmentally friendly remediation technologies is paramount. We thus carried out this study to examine the occurrence of metabolically active indigenous bacterial species and chemical characteristics of soils with a long history of oil pollution in Uganda that can be used in the development of a bacterial-based product for remediation of oil-polluted sites.

Results

Total hydrocarbon analysis of the soil samples revealed that the three most abundant hydrocarbons were pyrene, anthracene and phenanthrene that were significantly higher in oil-polluted sites than in the control sites. Using the BIOLOG EcoPlate™, the study revealed that bacterial species richness, bacterial diversity and bacterial activity (ANOVA, p < 0.05) significantly varied among the sites. Only bacterial activity showed significant variation across the three cities (ANOVA, p < 0.05). Additionally, the study revealed significant moderate positive correlation between the bacterial community profiles with Zn and organic contents while correlations between the bacterial community profiles and the hydrocarbons were largely moderate and positively correlated.

Conclusions

This study revealed largely similar bacterial community profiles between the oil-polluted and control sites suggestive of the occurrence of metabolically active bacterial populations in both sites. The oil-polluted sites had higher petroleum hydrocarbon, heavy metal, nitrogen and phosphorus contents. Even though we observed similar bacterial community profiles between the oil polluted and control sites, the actual bacterial community composition may be different, owing to a higher exposure to petroleum hydrocarbons. However, the existence of oil degrading bacteria in unpolluted soils should not be overlooked. Thus, there is a need to ascertain the actual indigenous bacterial populations with potential to degrade hydrocarbons from both oil-polluted and unpolluted sites in Uganda to inform the design and development of a bacterial-based oil remediation product that could be used to manage the imminent pollution from oil exploration and increased utilization of petroleum products in Uganda.
Number of endoscopic sessions to eradicate varices identifies high risk of rebleeding in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Guo Huiwen , Zhang Ming , Zhang Na , Yin Xiaochun , Cheng Yang , Gu Lihong , Wang Xixuan , Xiao Jiangqiang , Wang Yi , Zou Xiaoping , Zhuge Yuzheng , Zhang Feng
Published: May 2022

Background and aims

Risk stratification to identify patients with high risk of variceal rebleeding is particularly important in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. In clinical practice, eliminating gastroesphageal varices thoroughly after sequential endoscopic treatment reduces the rebleeding rate, however, no simple method has been build to predict high risk of variceal rebleeding. We conducted this study to explore the value of the number of endoscopic sessions required to eradicate gastroesphageal varices in identifying high risk of rebleeding.

Patients and methods

Consecutive cirrhotic patients received sequential endoscopic therapy between January 2015 and March 2020 were enrolled. Endoscopic treatment was performed every 1–4 weeks until the eradication of varices. The primary endpoint was variceal rebleeding.

Results

A total of 146 patients were included of which 60 patients received standard therapy and 86 patients underwent sequential endoscopic treatment alone. The cut-off value of the number of sequential endoscopic sessions is 3.5 times. Variceal rebleeding was significant higher in patients with endoscopic sessions > 3 times versus ≤ 3 times (61.5% vs. 17.5%, p < 0.001). Variceal rebleeding of patients with endoscopic sessions ≤ 3 times was significant lower than patients with > 3 times in group of standard therapy (19.6% vs. 88.9%, p < 0.001) and endoscopic therapy (15.9% vs. 47.1%, p = 0.028) respectively.

Conclusion

The number of sequential endoscopic sessions required to eradicate the varices is related to the risk of variceal rebleeding in patients with cirrhosis. If three times of endoscopic treatment can not eradicate the varices, a more aggressive treatment such as TIPS should be seriously considered.
Association between physical activity and physical and functional performance in non-institutionalized Mexican older adults: a cohort study
Authors: Martínez-Hernández Brenda María , Rosas-Carrasco Oscar , López-Teros Miriam , González-Rocha Alejandra , Muñoz-Aguirre Paloma , Palazuelos-González Rosa , Ortíz-Rodríguez Araceli , Luna-López Armando , Denova-Gutiérrez Edgar
Published: May 2022

Background

Aging is an independent risk factor for deterioration in functional capacity. Some studies have reported that physical activity (PA) improves functional capacity and physical performance among older adults (OA). Thus the objective of the present study was to assess the longitudinal association between PA and functional and physical performance in non-institutionalized OA.

Methods

A longitudinal analysis using data from the Frailty, Dynapenia and Sarcopenia in Mexican adults (FRADYSMEX, by its Spanish acronym) cohort study was conducted. PA was assessed through the Community Healthy Activities Model Program for Seniors (CHAMPS) instrument. Functionality was measured with the Barthel index and the Lawton and Brody scale, while physical performance was measured with the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). To evaluate the association between the level of PA and physical and functional performance as a continuous variable, a linear regression of mixed effects was performed. To assess PA and dependence in basic activities of the daily life (BADL), instrumental activities of the daily life (IADL), and low physical performance (PP), generalized estimation equation models [to compute odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI)] were computed.

Results

Older people who performed moderate to vigorous-intensity PA had a lower risk of dependence in IADL (OR = 0.17; 95%CI: 0.10, 0.80) and lower risk of low PP (OR = 0.18; 95%CI: 0.11, 0.58) compared to those in lower categories of PA.

Conclusions

Older adults living in the community who perform PA of moderate to vigorous intensity have a lower risk of dependence in BADL and IADL and have a lower risk of low PP.
The trend in cesarean myomectomies and the risk of obstetrical complications in Korea
Authors: Kim Min Jeong , Lee Kyungeun , Park Jae Young , Jo Ji Hye , Park In Yang
Published: May 2022

Background

To evaluate pregnancy outcomes and the risk of adverse obstetrical outcomes of cesarean myomectomy (CM) compared with cesarean section (CS) only, and to investigate the trend of surgeons in choosing CM.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed on all patients who underwent CS complicated by leiomyoma at two university hospitals between January 2010 and May 2020. All patients were categorized into the CM (341 women) or CS-only (438 women) group. We analyzed the demographic factors, obstetric factors, surgical outcomes, and possible risk factors for adverse outcomes between the two groups.

Results

Women who underwent CS only were significantly more likely to have a previous myomectomy and multiple leiomyoma history than women who underwent CM. The gestational age at delivery and pregnancy complications were significantly higher in the CS-only group. The mean size of the leiomyomas was larger in the CM group than in the CS-only group (5.8 ± 3.2 cm vs. 5.2 ± 3.1 cm, P = 0.005). The operation time and history of previous CS and preterm labor were higher in the CM group. The leiomyoma types differed between the two groups. The subserosal type was the most common in the CM group (48.7%), and the intramural type was the most common in the CS-only group. Patients in the CM group had fewer than three leiomyomas than those in the CS-only group. Preterm labor and abnormal presentation were relatively higher in the CM group than in the CS-only group, concerning leiomyoma presence. There were no significant differences in the preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin levels. The size of the leiomyoma (odds ratio [OR] = 1.162; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07–1.25; P < 0.001) and operation time > 60 min (OR = 2.461; 95% CI: 1.45–4.15) were significant independent predictors of adverse outcomes after CM.

Conclusions

CM should be considered a reliable and safe approach to prevent the need for another surgery for remnant leiomyoma. Herein, surgeons performed CM when uterine leiomyomas were large, of the subserosal type, or few. Standardized treatment guidelines for myomectomy during CSs in pregnant women with uterine fibroids should be established.
WHO criteria for diabetes in pregnancy: a retrospective cohort
Authors: Zaccara Tatiana A. , Paganoti Cristiane F. , Mikami Fernanda C. F. , Francisco Rossana P. V. , Costa Rafaela A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Recognizing that hyperglycemia in pregnancy can impact both individually a patient’s health and collectively the healthcare system and that different levels of hyperglycemia incur different consequences, we aimed to evaluate the differences and similarities between patients who met the diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) or diabetes in pregnancy (DIP) according to the World Health Organization diagnostic criteria based on the 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Methods

This retrospective study included a cohort of 1064 women followed-up at the Gestational Diabetes Unit of Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Sao Paulo (Sao Paulo, Brazil). Patients were classified into GDM and DIP groups, according to their OGTT results. Their electronic charts were reviewed to obtain clinical and laboratory data for all participants.

Results

Women in the DIP group had a higher pre-pregnancy body mass index (30.5 vs 28.1 kg/m2, odds ratio [OR] 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.11), more frequently experienced GDM in a previous pregnancy (25% vs. 11%, OR 2.71, 95% CI 1.17–6.27), and were more likely to have chronic hypertension (43.1% vs. 23.5%, OR 2.46, 95% CI 1.47–4.11), a current twin pregnancy (10.8% vs. 2.9%, OR 4.04, 95% CI 1.70–9.61), or require insulin (46.1% vs. 14.3%, OR 5.14, 95% CI 3.06–8.65) than those in the GDM group. Patients in the DIP group also had a higher frequency of large-for-gestational-age infants (12.3% vs. 5.1%, OR 2.78, 95% CI 1.23–6.27) and abnormal postpartum OGTT (45.9% vs. 12.6%, OR 5.91, 95% CI 2.93–11.90) than those in the GDM group. Nevertheless, in more than half of the DIP patients, glucose levels returned to normal after birth.

Conclusions

Diabetes in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes but does not equate to a diagnosis of diabetes post-pregnancy. It is necessary to identify and monitor these women more closely during and after pregnancy. Keeping patients with hyperglycemia in pregnancy engaged in healthcare is essential for accurate diagnosis and prevention of complications related to abnormal glucose metabolism.
The effects of childhood trauma on personality in unaffected first-degree relatives of patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Wen Yu-jie , Bo Qi-jing , Hou Wen-peng , Mao Zhen , Li Feng , He Fan , Dong Fang , Ma Xin , Tang Yi-lang , Li Xian-bin , Wang Chuan-yue
Published: May 2022

Abstrac

Objectives

This study aimed to preliminarily and exploratorily examine the associations between childhood trauma (CT), its subtypes, and personality traits among unaffected first-degree relatives (FDR, children, or siblings) of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

The study sample included three subgroups: MDD patients (N = 85), Patients’ FDRs (N = 35), and healthy control individuals (HC, N = 89). The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) was used to assess childhood trauma and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire was used to assess personality traits.

Results

Significant differences were found in a few personality traits (p < 0.05 for extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism) among MDD patients, FDR, and HC, and there were no significant differences between HC and FDR. In the FDR group, compared with those without CT, participants with CT scored significantly higher for neuroticism (N) (F = 3.246, p = 0.046). CT was significantly associated with N, psychoticism (P) and Lie (L), and the strongest association was between CT total score and N. Significantly positive correlations were found between N and sexual abuse (SA) (r = 0.344, p = 0.043), emotional neglect (EN) (r = 0.394, p = 0.019), physical neglect (PN) (r = 0.393, p = 0.019), and CTQ total score (r = 0.452, p = 0.006); between P and CTQ total score (r = 0.336, p = 0.049); and significant negative correlations were found between L and EN (r = -0.446, p = 0.007), CTQ total score (r = -0.375, p = 0.027).

Conclusion

In unaffected FDRs, there were significant associations between childhood trauma and a few personality traits, including neuroticism, psychoticism, and lie, and emotional neglect was significantly associated with neuroticism.
An observational comparison of FACT and ACT in the Netherlands and the US
Authors: Westen Koen , Boyle Patrick , Kroon Hans
Published: May 2022

Background

Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) is a well-defined service delivery model for the care and treatment of the most severely mentally ill in the community with American origins. The Dutch have adapted the model in order to accommodate a broader range of needs and allow more flexible implementation. Functional Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) provides the intensity of care needed to help participants sustain life in the community as well as continuity of care over time for many vulnerable client populations.
Palliative care in home health care services and hospitals – the role of the resource nurse, a qualitative study
Authors: Johansen Håkon , Grøndahl Vigdis Abrahamsen , Helgesen Ann Karin
Published: May 2022

Background

The role of the resource nurse aims at bridging the gap between the specialist nurses and the nurses who work in non-specialist wards. The role is established internationally and used in a wide area of clinical settings. The resource nurse is promoting evidence-based practice.

Patients with life limiting conditions including cancer and other chronic diseases will likely need palliative care during the trajectory of illness. Due to the complexity of palliative care, both interprofessional help and cooperation between levels of healthcare are considered necessary.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences related to the role of the resource nurse in palliative care in the setting of home health care services and hospitals in Norway, from the perspectives of the resource nurses and the ward nurses.

Design

The study has an explorative design with a qualitative approach.

Methods

Eight individual interviews were conducted. Audiotaped interview material was transcribed verbatim and the data were analysed using systematic text condensation. The encoded data material provided the basis for writing analytical texts that in turn resulted in meaningful descriptions of the different categories.

Results

Four resource nurses and four ward nurses participated in individual interviews.

Analysis of the data yielded three categories: 1. Expectations of better competence in the ward. 2. Expectations of better cooperation between professions and different levels of healthcare services. 3. Improvements and hindrances.

Conclusion

The resource nurse role is underutilized due to heavy workload and inefficient organization of care. Improvements such as sufficient time resources, support from the ward nurse and cooperation with staff nurses, the resource nurses’ role could contribute to increased competence and cooperation interprofessionally and between levels of healthcare.
Effect of end-of-life nursing education on the knowledge and performance of nurses in the intensive care unit: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Ghaemizade Shushtari Sima Sadat , Molavynejad Shahram , Adineh Mohammad , Savaie Mohsen , Sharhani Asaad
Published: May 2022

Background

End-of-life care education is required for nurses to acquire the clinical competence necessary for the improvement of the quality of end-of-life nursing care. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of nursing care education based on End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium (ELNEC) on the knowledge and performance of nurses working in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

This quasi-experimental study was conducted with a pretest–posttest design. From among nurses working in the ICU of Golestan and Imam Khomeini hospitals in Ahvaz, Iran, 80 nurses were selected based on the inclusion criteria. They were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups (40 people in each group) using a table of random numbers. Data were collected using a demographic characteristics form, the ELNEC Knowledge Assessment Test (ELNEC-KAT), and the Program in Palliative Care Education and Practice Questionnaire (German Revised Version; PCEP-GR).

Results

A significant difference was observed between the intervention and control groups in terms of the average knowledge score in all 9 modules including nursing care, pain management and control, disease symptom management, ethical/legal issues, culture, communication with the patient and his/her family, loss and grief, death, and quality of life (QOL) (P < 0.001). Moreover, the average performance score of nurses in the fields of preparation for providing palliative care, self-assessment of ability to communicate with dying patients and their relatives, self-assessment of knowledge and skills in palliative care increased significantly in the intervention group compared to the control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

End-of-life nursing education is recommended as an effective method for promoting knowledge, attitude, performance, and clinical competence among all nurses involved in end-of-life care.