bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of Potential Suitable Distribution of Original Species of Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus in China Under Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhang Yuanyuan , Huang Yi , Zhang Jindong , Mou Qiuyu , Qiu Jianyue , Wang Rulin , Li Yujie , Zhang Dequan
Published: September 2021

Fritillariae Cirrhosae Bulbus (FCB) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine, mainly used for relieving cough and resolving phlegm. According to Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2020), the medicine comes from dried bulbs of five species and one variety in Fritillaria. Due to climate change and human disturbance, the wild resources have become critically endangered in recent years. Following three climate change scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5) under 2050s and 2070s, geographic information technology (GIS) and maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) were used to simulate the ecological suitability of FCB, a third-grade rare and endangered medicinal plant species. The results showed that the key environmental variables affecting the distribution of were altitude, human activity intensity, and mean temperature of coldest quarter. Under current climate situation, the highly suitable areas were mainly located in the east of Qinghai Tibet Plateau, including Western Sichuan, southeastern Tibet, southern Gansu, Northwestern Yunnan and Eastern Qinghai, with a total area of 31.47×104 km2, the area within the nature reserve was 7.13×104 km2, indicating that there was a large protection gap. Under the future climate change scenarios, the areas of the highly and poorly suitable areas of FCB showed a decreasing trend, while the areas of the moderately and total suitable areas showed a increasing trend. The geometric center of the total suitable area of the medicine will move to the northwest. The results could provide a strategic guidance for protection，development and utilization of FCB though its prediction of potential distribution based on the key variables of climate change.
The Pain of Breathing: How Does Haze Pollution Affect Urban Innovation?
Authors: feng wei , yuan hang
Published: September 2021

Innovation plays an important role in achieving green-growth economic development in China, while the spread of haze pollution (also called smog) inhibits innovation activities. Using panel data on 265 cities at the prefecture level in China from 2001 to 2016, this paper investigates the relationship between haze pollution and urban innovation. The conclusions are as follows. First, haze pollution has a significant inhibitory effect on urban innovation. After we consider endogeneity, eliminate extreme values, and incorporate spatial correlation, we find that the negative impact of haze pollution on urban innovation still exists. Second, the channels through which haze pollution affects urban innovation can mainly be attributed to population density, the size of the home market, and economic activity. Third, among the different regions in China, the inhibitory effect of haze pollution on innovation is the most serious in the eastern region, followed by the central and western regions. Moreover, across diverse Chinese cities, the significant inhibitory effects of haze pollution on innovation are mainly in cities that are not provincial capitals and resource-based cities. Accordingly, efficient management of haze pollution is a critical prerequisite and effective guarantee for improving urban innovation.JEL codes: K32; O13; O31; R11
Removal of Phenol From Wastewater by High-Gravity Intensified Heterogeneous Catalytic Ozonation With Activated Carbon
Authors: zhang jingwen , shao shengjuan , ding xin , li zhixing , jing jiaxin , jiao weizhou , liu youzhi
Published: September 2021

In this study, the high-gravity technique is used to intensify the heterogeneous catalytic ozonation with activated carbon (AC) as the catalyst for removal of phenol from wastewater in a rotating packed bed (RPB), and the effects of high-gravity factor, inlet O3 concentration, liquid-gas ratio and initial pH on the degradation and mineralization of phenol at room temperature are investigated. It is revealed that the degradation rate of phenol reaches 100% at 10 min and the removal rate of total organic carbon (TOC) reaches 91% at 40 min under the conditions of high-gravity factor β=40, inlet O3 concentration =90 mg·L-1, liquid flow rate =80 L·h-1 and initial pH=11. Compared with the bubbling reactor (BR)/O3/AC and RPB/O3 systems, the mineralization rate of phenol by the RPB/O3/AC system is increased by 24.78% and 34.77%, respectively. Free radical quenching experiments are performed using tertiary butanol (TBA) and benzoquinone(BQ) as scavengers of ·OH and O2·−, respectively. It is shown that the degradation and mineralization of phenol are respectively attributed to the direct ozonation and the indirect oxidation by ·OH generated from the decomposition of O3 adsorbed on AC surface. •OH and O2•− are also detected by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Thus, it is concluded that AC-catalyzed ozonation and high gravity technique had a synergistic effect on •OH initiation, which in turn can significantly improve the degradation and mineralization of organic wastewater.
Information System as Part of Epidemic Management in Burkina Faso: From Plan to Reality (Field Findings)
Authors: Diallo Cheick Omar , Schioler Karin Linda , Samuelsen Helle , Drabo Maxime Koine
Published: September 2021

Background: Health information systems (HIS) in most developing countries face many challenges. In view of recurrent weaknesses in preparedness and response during the management of epidemics, we have examined the organization and function of the health information system in Burkina Faso.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from January 1, 2019 to March 31, 2020 including a review of HIS documents, key informant interviews and direct observations. The study was conducted at the public primary health care (PHC) and community level of Bama and Soumagou in the rural health districts of Dandé and Tenkodogo. Study participants included community-based health workers (CBHWs) and health workers in the PHCs area, community-based organization animators (CBOA), CBO monitoring-evaluation officers and members of the District management team (DMT).Results: While reporting forms used in all health facilities are standardized, they are not necessarily well understood at community level and at the health center. Reports prepared by CBHWs are often delayed by the head nurse at the primary health care service. Case definitions of epidemic diseases are not always well understood by community-based health workers and front-line health workers.Conclusion: The health information system in Burkina Faso could be further improved. There is a need to hold regular training/refresher sessions for agents involved in surveillance and to ensure the development of simplified case definitions for emerging diseases and/or diseases of public health interest for community use. Furthermore, existing epidemic management committees need to be revitalize.
Water Supply Services in Spanish Cities and the Debate on Private Participation in Their Management: Which Model is Most Efficient?
Authors: Sevilla-Jimenez Martín , Torregrosa Teresa , López-Milla Julian , Perles-Ribes Jose
Published: September 2021

Supplying water to the population is one of the fundamental services of any Spanish city given the importance of the good itself, regardless of how it is managed. However, it is sometimes seen more as a source of extra finance for the municipality, and, in recent years, as an issue of political debate in terms of the adequacy of one form of management or another: public or private. Currently, 35% of Spain's population is supplied by public specialised entities, 33% by private companies under a concession contract, 22% by mixed companies and 10% by undifferentiated municipal services. In simple terms, 45% corresponds to public management and 55% is fully or partially managed by the private sector. By analysing the annual accounts of the companies that operate in the Spain's principal municipalities, this study seeks to determine the role played by the private sector in the management of the mixed companies. Due to the diversity of services provided by these companies and the lack of differentiated statistics for each of them, we have used the Annual Accounts presented to the Central Mercantile Register or the data submitted to the Ministry of Finance in order to assess the influence of private participation on the results of the companies.
Sero-survey on Long-term Care Facility Residents Reveals Increased Risk of Sub-optimal Antibody Response to BNT162B2: Implications for Breakthrough Prevention
Authors: Caimi Barbara , Franzetti Marco , Velleca Rossella , Lai Alessia , Gatti Antonella , Luigi Rossi Pier , D'Orso Marco , Pregliasco Fabrizio , Balotta Claudia , Calicchio Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

Background: The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 on hosts of Long Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) has been dramatic at global scale as aging and comorbitities pose individuals at increased risk of severe disease and death. Methods: Aim of this study was to evaluate SARS-CoV-2 S-IgG antibodies titers in 478 residents and 649 health care workers of the largest Italian nurse facility two months after the complete vaccination with BNT162B2. Associations among host-related factors and predictors of humoral response were investigated. Results: By stratifying levels of humoral responses, we found that 62.1%, 21.6%, 12.1% and 4.2% of hosts has high (>1,000 BAU/ml), medium (101-1,000), low (1-100) and null (<1 BAU/mL) S-IgG titers, respectively. Hosts with previous COVID-19 and those with SARS-CoV-2 N-IgG positive serology showed higher level of serological response (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively), while the administration of corticosteroid or cancer diminished all levels of specific antibodies (p=0.019 and p=0.004). Significant associations were observed for these parameters in those with suboptimal response (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.028 and p=0.005) and with a null one (p=0.005, p<0.001 and p=0.039). Predictors of an increased risk of null response were advanced age, corticosteroid therapy and diabetes mellitus (p=0.025, p=0.017 and p=0.037). In contrast, previous diagnosis of COVID-19 resulted strongly associated with a reduced risk of null response to vaccination (p<0.001). Conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies in elderly individuals need to be measured to consider a third dose of vaccine after mass vaccination for prevention of reinfections in LTCFs despite the maintenance of barrier measures.
The Efficacy of Low-dose Aspirin in Pregnancy Among Women in Malaria-endemic Countries
Authors: Bauserman Melissa , Leuba Sequoia , Hemingway-Foday Jennifer , Nolen Tracy L. , Moore Janet , McClure Elizabeth M. , Lokangaka Adrien , Tsehfu Antoinette , Patterson Jackie , Liechty Edward , Esamai Fabian , Carlo Wally , Chomba Elwyn , Goldenberg Robert L. , Saleem Sarah , Jesani Saleem , Koso-Thomas Marion , Hoffman Matthew , Derman Richard , Meshnick Steve , Bose Carl
Published: September 2021

BackgroundLow dose aspirin (LDA) is an effective strategy to reduce preterm birth. However, LDA might have differential effects globally, based on the etiology of preterm birth. In some regions, malaria in pregnancy could be an important modifier of LDA on birth outcomes and anemia. MethodsThis is a sub-study of the ASPIRIN trial, a multi-national, randomized, placebo controlled trial evaluating LDA effect on preterm birth. We enrolled a convenience sample of women in the ASPIRIN trial from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenya and Zambia. We used quantitative polymerase chain reaction to detect malaria. We calculated crude prevalence proportion ratios (PRs) for LDA by malaria for outcomes, and regression modelling to evaluate effect measure modification. We evaluated hemoglobin in late pregnancy based on malaria infection in early pregnancy.Results1,446 women were analyzed, with a malaria prevalence of 63% in the DRC site, 38% in the Kenya site, and 6% in the Zambia site. Preterm birth occurred in 83 (LDA) and 90 (placebo) women, (PR 0.92, 95% CI 0.70, 1.22), without interaction between LDA and malaria (p=0.75). Perinatal mortality occurred in 41 (LDA) and 43 (placebo) pregnancies, (PR 0.95, 95% CI 0.63, 1.44), with an interaction between malaria and LDA (p=0.014). Hemoglobin was similar by malaria and LDA status.ConclusionsMalaria in early pregnancy did not modify the effects of LDA on preterm birth, but modified the effect of LDA on perinatal mortality. This effect measure modification deserves continued study as LDA is used in malaria endemic regions.
Evaluating The Performance of Nutrients Uptake Capabilities and Enzymatic Activities in The Different Green Manures
Authors: Solangi Farheen , Gao Songjuan , Solangi Kashif , Cao Weidong
Published: September 2021

Winter green manure potentially uptake large amount of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) from the soil. However, the mechanism underlying nutrient uptake in green manure varieties remain elusive. This study illustrates the P and K uptake potential in different leguminous and non-leguminous species through integrated approaches. The designed studies evaluated the 10 green manure crops included five leguminous species (i.e smooth vetch hairy vetch, common vetch, lathyrus sativus, and milk vetch) and five non-leguminous species (i.e February orchid, chinese radish, forage radish, rapeseed and ryegrass) were planted. Experimental results indicated that the smooth vetch had highest P and K uptake capabilities among all leguminous species. While, rapeseed and chinese radish greatly P and K obtain among all non-leguminous treatments. Therefore various species also affected soil P and K availability and soil enzymes. Soil enzymatic activities including phosphatase (150.7%) and N-acetyl-glucosaminidase (95.4%) were elevated in lathryus sativus compared to the hairy vetch and common vetch respectively. The highest β-glucosidase (95.2%) and leucine-aminopeptidase (107.6%) activities accumulated in lathyrus sativus greater than the smooth vetch in all legumes species. In non-leguminous treatments phosphatase (500.5%), β-glucosidase (424.4%), and N-acetylglucosaminidase (256.3%) activities were improved in chinese radish as compared to the rapeseed. In constrast ryegrass was promoted greatest leucine-aminopeptidase activity by 182.7% higher than forage radish. However soil enzymes significanlty improve soil nutrient status. As a conclusion smooth vetch, rapeseed, and Chinese radish varieties have more P and K obtain capacity and forage radish could enhance soil enzyme activities. It is suggested these varieties might be a better choice in green manuring practice for improving nutrient management and soil nutrient quality in agro-ecosystems.
MPO-ANCA-Positive Hypertrophic Pachymeningitis With Elevated Serum IgG4: A Case Report and Literature Review.
Authors: Gao Zhaoli , Hu Zhao , Gao Yanxia
Published: September 2021

Background: We report a case of serum myeloperoxidase (MPO)-anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-positive hypertrophic pachymeningitis with elevated serum immunoglobulin G (IgG)4.Case presentation: He was a 67-year-old man who appeared headache and hearing loss 7 years ago. He was treated with methylprednisolone and mycophenolate when he was diagnosed with hypertrophic pachymeningitis 2 years ago. He went to the hospital this time because of fatigue and appetite, the results of his blood tests indicated a progressive increase in creatinine and an increase in MPO and IgG4. His kidney biopsy revealed very few infiltrating IgG4-positive cells. Instead, fibrinoid necrosis of arterioles was observed. Considering the clinical process and these findings, the disease was considered more likely to be ANCA-associated hypertrophic pachymeningitis with elevated serum IgG4 level.Conclusions: Our case highlights the importance of the pathological examination and the medical history. Pathological examination and previous medical history play an essential role in the diagnosis of the disease. Only when the disease is correctly diagnosed can it be further treated effectively and get a better prognosis.Data Sources: Data were collected from the patient’s electronic medical records and the hospital laboratory medicine database.
Low-dose Radiation Treatment for Painful Heel Spur: a Highly Effective Therapy With Little Side Effects
Authors: Njanang Freddy-Joel Djiepmo , Tamaskovics Balint , Boelke Edwin , Peiper Matthias , Haussmann Jan , Neuwahl Judith , Jazmati Danny , Maas Kitti , Schmidt Livia , Gelzhaeusser Romans , Schleich Christiph , Orth Klaus , Corradini Stefanie , Griensven Martijn van , Rezazadeh Amir , Karimi Kimian , Budach Wilfried , Matuschek Christiane
Published: September 2021

Aim: Evaluation of pain reduction using orthovolt or cobalt-based radiation treatment for painful heel spurs and determination of long-term response as well as prognostic parameters.Methods: We identified a total of 102 consecutive patients treated for a total of 117 symptomatic heel spurs. 59 patients were treated with cobalt radiation, 31 patients with orthovolt therapy and 12 patients with both radiation systems. Pain reduction was scored using the modified Rowe-Score prior therapy, at the end of each treatment series as well as after 6 weeks and at the time of data collection. Long-term outcome was evaluated in patients with a follow-up period of longer than three years. Results: Before radiation therapy, 61 patients (60.4%) had a score of 0, significant strong pain. At the time of completion of radiation treatment, 3 patients (2.7%) were pain free (score of 30), whereas 8 patients (7.9%) had still severe pain (score 0). 6 weeks after radiation therapy, 33 patients (32.7%) were pain-free and 8 patients (7.9%) had severe pain (score 0), while at the time data of collection, 74 patients (73%) were free of pain and 1 patient (1%) had strong pain (score 0). Duration of pain before the start of radiation treatment was a significant prognostic factor (p=0.012) for response to treatment. Hier noch etwas über die Nebenwirkungen schreiben? Darauf gehen wir in der Conclusion ja ein.Conclusion: Radiotherapy of painful heel spurs is a highly effective therapy with little side effects providing long-term therapeutic response. The only significant prognostic parameter for response to treatment is the duration of pre-radiation therapy pain. Early integration of radiation therapy in the treatment seems to result in superior pain reduction.
MicroRNAs as Potential Indicators of the Development and Progression of Uterine Leiomyoma
Authors: Kim Myungshin , Kwon Mi Yeon , Lee HeeJeong , Kim Min Jeong
Published: September 2021

Recent studies demonstrated a significant role of several microRNAs (miRs) in the development of leiomyoma. Here, we investigated miR expression profiles using microarray and found a significantly higher expression of miRs in leiomyoma than in adjacent myometrium. We also confirmed the upregulation of five selected miRs including miR-181a-5p, 127-3p, 28-3p, 30b-5p and let-7c-5p in cellular proliferation, extracellular matrix turnover, and angiogenesis by RT-qPCR. Interestingly, the miRs showed a higher expression in cases of large leiomyoma or in patients with a history of transfusion due to anemia. We then analyzed the expression of the miR target molecules including TGFBR2 and IGF2BP1 via immunohistochemistry. TGFBR2 and IGF2BP1 were positively stained in 81% and 62.5% of leiomyoma tissues but not in adjacent myometrium. Both were more frequently positive in patients with ≥ 6 cm leiomyoma and mass effect. The mean expression levels of miR-181a-5p, 127-3p, 28-3p, 30b-3p and let-7c-5p were higher in cases with TGFBR2 and IGF2BP1 positive leiomyoma. These results provide insight into the role of miRs in the development and progression of leiomyoma and underscore the need to validate their utility as diagnostic or therapeutic targets.
Fermi surface instabilities in electronic Raman scattering of the metallic kagome lattice CsV3Sb5
Authors: Wulferding Dirk , Lee Seungyeol , Choi YoungSu , Yin Qiangwei , Tu Zhijun , Gong Chunsheng , Lei Hechang , Choi K.-Y.
Published: September 2021

Understanding the link between a charge density wave (CDW) instability and superconductivity is a central theme of the 2D metallic kagome compounds AV3Sb5 (A=K, Rb, and Cs). Using polarization-resolved electronic Raman spectroscopy, we shed light on Fermi surface fluctuations and electronic instabilities. We observe a quasielastic peak (QEP) whose spectral weight is progressively enhanced towards the superconducting transition. The QEP temperature-dependence reveals a steep increase in coherent in-plane charge correlations within the charge-density phase. In contrast, out-of-plane charge fluctuations remain strongly incoherent across the investigated temperature range. In-plane phonon anomalies appear at T* ≈ 50 K in addition to right below TCDW ≈ 95 K, while showing no apparent evidence of reduced symmetry at low temperatures. In conjunction with the consecutive phonon anomalies within the CDW state, our electronic Raman data unveil additional electronic instabilities that persist down to the superconducting phase, thereby offering a superconducting mechanism.
Feasibility of Tissue Plasminogen Activator Dwell Therapy to Reduce Central Venous Catheter Associated Thrombosis: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Hanson Sheila J , Shad Sadaf , Faustino E. Vincent S.
Published: September 2021

Backround: To evaluate the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of the fibrinolytic tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) vs unfractionated heparin (UFH) central venous catheter (CVC) dwell therapy to reduce risk of CVC-associated deep venous thrombosis (CADVT) in critically ill children. Methods: This single center quadruple blinded pilot RCT enrolled children ≤18 years of age with CVC placed within 72 hours of admission to the pediatric intensive care unit (ICU)Weight-adjusted dose of study drug dwell (t-PA vs UFH) was installed to alternating lumen of CVC every 3 days for 10 doses, CVC removal or ICU discharge. Ultrasound with doppler was performed at study completion.Main Results: Of 426 children screened from April-Dec 2019, 86 (20%) were eligible with 20 enrolled and randomized. Primary outcome measure of enrollment rate was 23%. One child was withdrawn immediately after randomization due to development of exclusion criterion. Secondary feasibility outcome measures were proportion of children who received study drug within 24 hours of consent (100%), proportion with ultrasound (100%), and proportion completing the study (95%). Eighteen of 19 children received the first dose within 48 hours of CVC placement. All children missed some dose days because of lumen specified to be in continuous use. Median dwell time for doses received was >2 hours. There were no protocol violations. Six of 19 patients (31.6%) developed CADVT, 1 of which was occlusive. There were no catheter-associated blood stream infection or significant bleeding.Conclusion: Critically ill children requiring CVC are at high risk for CADVT. A future multicenter, blinded, RCT to determine the effectiveness of t-PA vs UFH dwell in reducing CADVT is feasible.Registered August 10, 2018 on ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03672006
Investigation of Process Parameters in High-Speed Die-less Water Jet Spin-Forming of Copper Sheets
Authors: Asadi Mehrdad , Loh-Mousavi Mohsen , Heidari Ali , Amini Kamran
Published: September 2021

A new forming method called high speed water jet spin-forming was developed. This new forming method is a combination of water jet incremental forming and sheet metal spinning without any mandrel. The forming speed has been significantly increased by spinning of the sheet using a lathe machine. The effects of the forming parameters such as water jet pressure, rotation speed and relative water jet diameter on formability and surface quality of deformed copper parts were investigated. The experimental results indicate that the water jet pressure and the sheet rotation speed have a significant effect on the final depth, wall angle, and surface smoothness. It was also concluded that the final depth exponentially increases as the sheet rotational speed reduced. In addition, when the water jet pressure is low, sheet rational speed does not play a significant role in the final depth of the specimen. Furthermore, it has been determined from the results that high water jet pressure plays an important role in improving the surface quality and wrinkling at different rotational speeds, and as the pressure is increased, the wrinkling decreases and thus the surface quality is improved.
Precursory atmospheric circulations with Rossby wave trains leading to Eurasian extreme cold events
Authors: zhuo Wenqin , Huang Fei , Ding Ruichang , Luo Jin
Published: September 2021

This work examines precursory atmospheric circulations with various wave trains contributing to extreme cooling over central Eurasia in boreal winter from 1979-2016 based on the ERA-Interim dataset. The empirical orthogonal function (EOF) method is used to classify the anomalous sea level pressure field averaged in two weeks prior to extreme cooling. Based on the classification, three types of precursory atmospheric circulation patterns are named according to the origins of wave trains, and their formation mechanisms are revealed as well . Type1: Baffin Bay-origin pattern, which forms in the downstream development of Rossby wave packets generated from the downward stratospheric energy transmission over the Baffin Bay. Type2: Pacific-origin pattern, similar to a Eurasian (EU) teleconnection pattern, arises at the exit area of the westerly jet in the central North Pacific where cyclonic shear exists; then it develops along the northerly westerly jet over the North Atlantic, which may act as a waveguide to the Eurasian continent. Type 3: Atlantic-origin, manifests as the negative phase of type 2, consistent with the Scandinavian (SCAND) pattern, which may results from the air-sea interaction induced by the warm anomaly of sea surface temperature in the middle of North Atlantic. In conclusion, the three types of precursory atmospheric wave train patterns that bring extreme cooling to Eurasia possess diverse disturbing sources and development mechanisms. The results, which are investigated based on a quasi-biweekly time scale , deepen our understanding of the atmospheric genesis of extreme weather and have specific indicative significance to improve the technique of extended forecast.
Hall effect in gated single-wall carbon nanotube film
Authors: Yomogida Yohei , Horiuchi Kanako , Okada Ryotaro , Kawai Hideki , Ichinose Yota , Nishidome Hiroyuki , Ueji Kan , Komatsu Natsumi , Gao Weilu , Kono Junichiro , Yanagi Kazuhiro
Published: September 2021

The presence of hopping carriers and grain boundaries can sometimes lead to anomalous carrier types and density overestimation in Hall-effect measurements. Previous Hall-effect studies on carbon nanotube films reported unreasonably large carrier densities without independent assessments of the carrier types and densities. Here, we have systematically investigated the validity of Hall-effect results for a series of metallic, semiconducting, and metal-semiconductor-mixed single-wall carbon nanotube films. With carrier densities controlled through applied gate voltages, we were able to observe the Hall effect both in the n- and p-type regions, detecting opposite signs in the Hall coefficient. By comparing the obtained carrier types and densities against values derived from simultaneous field-effect-transistor measurements, we found that, while the Hall carrier types were always correct, the Hall carrier densities were overestimated by up to four orders of magnitude. This significant overestimation indicates that thin films of one-dimensional SWCNTs are quite different from conventional hopping transport systems.
Factors That Influence Human Error and Patient Safety in the Pre-hospital Emergency Care Setting: Perspectives of Emergency Care Practitioners in a Middle-income Country
Authors: Rowland Mugsien , Adefuye Anthonio Oladele
Published: September 2021

Background: Delivering pre-hospital emergency care has the potential to be hazardous, and the patient could experience an adverse event. Despite these potential, yet known, threats, little is known about patient safety in the pre-hospital care setting, in contrast to in-hospital care. In South Africa, there are no reports on patient safety and human error issues in the pre-hospital care setting. This study investigated the perspectives of emergency care practitioners (ECPs) in South Africa on the types of errors that occur in the pre-hospital emergency care setting, as well as factors that influence patient safety and precipitate errors during pre-hospital care.Methods: This research was designed as an exploratory study that used a questionnaire administered on 2000 ECPs to obtain their perceptions on factors the influence human error and patient safety in the pre-hospital emergency care environment. Results: Of the 2000 questionnaires distributed, 1,510 were returned, giving a response rate of 76%. Analysis of the respondents’ responses in relation to the types of human errors in the pre-hospital environment yielded five dominant themes, namely errors relating to poor judgement, poor skill/knowledge, fatigue, and communication, and human error. According to the participants, inadequate equipment, environmental factors, personal safety concerns, practitioner’s incompetence, and ineffective teamwork are the top five factors that influence patient safety in the pre-hospital emergency care setting. The majority (65.1%; p < 0.001) of public sector ECPs reported that they had not received training on patient safety, nor do they have a protocol for managing medical error at their workplace (65.7%; p < 0.007). Conclusion: In conclusion, this study investigated paramedics’ views on types of errors that occur in the pre-hospital emergency care setting, and factors that influence patient safety and precipitate errors during pre-hospital care. It was found that public-sector emergency medical service (EMS) in South Africa seldom train their staff on patient safety or have a protocol for managing medical error. The study advocates that, to overcome medical errors, EMS in South Africa should establish a culture of safety that focuses on system improvement and personnel training.
Effect of limb rotation on radiographic alignment measurement in mal-aligned knees
Authors: Sun Xiaoshu , Yang Bin , Xiao Shengzhao , Yan Yichen , Liu Zifan , Yuan Liang , Wang Xiaohua , Sun Bin , Yao Jie , Fan Yubo
Published: September 2021

PurposeLong-leg-radiography (LLR) is commonly used for measurement of lower limb alignment. However, limb rotations during radiography may interfere with the alignment measurement. This study examines the effect of limb rotation on the accuracy of measurements based on the mechanical and anatomical axes of the femur and tibia, with variations in knee flexion and coronal deformity. MethodsForty-five lower limbs of thirty patients were scanned with CT. Virtual LLRs simulating 5 rotational positions (neutral, ±10°, and ±20° internal rotation) were generated from the CT images. Changes in the hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA) and the femorotibial angle (FTA) were measured on each image with respect to neutral values. These changes were related to knee flexion and coronal deformity under both weight- and non-weight-bearing conditions. ResultsThe measurement error of the HKA and FTA derived from limb rotation were up to 4.84±0.66° and 7.35±0.88° respectively, and were correlated with knee flexion (p＜0.001) and severe coronal deformity (p≤0.001). Compared with non-weight-bearing position, coronal deformity measured in weight-bearing condition was 2.62° greater, the correlation coefficients between the coronal deformity and the deviation ranges of HKA and FTA were also greater. ConclusionFlexion and severe coronal deformity have significant influence on the measurement error of lower limb alignment. Errors can be amplified in the weight-bearing condition compared with the non-weight-bearing condition. The error of measurement of the anatomic axis is greater than the mechanical axis. Considering LLR is the gold standard image modality, attention should be paid to the measurement of knee alignment. Especially for the possible errors derives from weight-bearing long leg radiographs of patients with severe knee deformities.
Healthcare Seeking Among Swedish Patients in Opioid Substitution Treatment – a Mixed Methods Study on Barriers and Facilitators
Authors: Troberg Katja , Lundqvist Karin , Hansson Helena , Håkansson Anders , Dahlman Disa
Published: September 2021

Background: Patients in opioid substitution treatment (OST) have poorer health than the general population. Thus, they do not seek somatic health care to the extent that is medically motivated. Barriers hindering patients from seeking medical help through the conventional healthcare system result in a high degree of unmet healthcare needs. Barriers to and facilitators of OST patients’ healthcare seeking have been sparsely examined.Methods: Mixed methods were employed. The quantitative part consisted of a cross-sectional questionnaire covering questions on physical health, healthcare seeking, and barriers thereof, which was collected from 209 patients in OST. A sub-sample of eleven OST patients participated in semi-structured interviews, for the qualitative part of the study, covering experience of healthcare, lifestyle and self-images, expectations and ideals of Swedish healthcare. Results: Confirmed by qualitative data, quantitative data revealed deprioritization, fear of stigma and of being treated badly, and problems in navigation throughout the healthcare system, leading to unsuccessful establishment of contact, being most common reasons for not seeking somatic healthcare. Thus, interviewees provided a deeper knowledge of the barriers stigma, lack of means to prioritize health and difficulties navigating throughout the healthcare system, leading to resignation and deprioritization. On-site primary healthcare seemed to contribute to increased access and utilization of healthcare.Conclusion: Individual and structural barriers decreasing access to healthcare lead to increased inequalities in healthcare utilization, adding to an already deteriorating health of this ageing population. Integration of on-site primary healthcare and OST could provide acceptable and accessible healthcare. Further investigations into this subject need to be conducted.
Overcoming institutionalised barriers to digital health systems: An autoethnographic study of the judicialization of a digital health tool.
Authors: Mureyi Dudzai
Published: September 2021

Background
The deployment of digital health systems may be impeded by barriers that or are linked to underlying enduring institutions. Attempting to challenge the barriers without addressing the underpinning institution may be ineffective. This study reflects on ways actors may surmount institutionalised barriers to the uptake of digital tools in health systems.
Methods
Institutional theory concepts were applied to an autoethnographic case study of efforts to introduce a digital tool to provide citizens with medicines information.
Results
The tool’s uptake was impeded because of state regulators’ institutionalised interpretation of pharmaceutical advertising laws, which rendered the tool illegal. The regulators’ institutionalised interpretation of pharmaceutical advertising laws was successfully challenged through various actions by the author- a pharmacist, and by allies beyond the health sector. These actions included: framing the tool as legal and constitutional, litigation, and redefining these concepts: ‘advertising’, ‘health institution’, and the role of regulatory bodies vis a vis innovation.
Conclusion
After identifying a barrier as being institutionalised or linked to an institution, actors might challenge such barriers by engaging in institutional work; i.e. deliberate efforts to challenge the relevant institution (e.g. a law, norm or shared belief). Institutional work may require the actions of multiple actors within and beyond the health sector, including judicial actors. Such cross-sectoral alliances are efficacious because they provide institutional workers with a broader range of strategies, framings, concepts and forums with which to challenge institutionalised barriers. However, actors beyond the health system (e.g. the judiciary) must be inquisitive about the potential implications of the digital health interventions they champion.
Implementation of an Integrated Health Risk Assessment Coupled with Spatial Interpolation and Source Apportionment: A Case Study of Soil Heavy Metals, China
Authors: Miao Fangfang , Zhang Yimei , Li Yu , Fang Qinglu , Zhou Yinzhuang
Published: September 2021

Soil heavy metal contaminated sites with multiple sources of pollution have caused worldwide public concern. However, the lack of correlation of risk assessment between source identification of heavy metal led to unclear direction of source governance. A methodology was established by combining source apportionment of human health risks with ecological enrichment to characterize source-identified risks of heavy metals based on Ordinary kriging interplotation. Principal component analysis (PCA) and positive matrix factorization (PMF) model were used to identify and classify potential sources of heavy metals synthetically. The integrated results were incorporated into the health risk model to evaluate potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk of soil heavy metals. A case study was conducted in Suzhou city of China. The results showed that concentrations of Cd and Hg were highly above the background values, accounting for percentages of 239.6% and 415.9% above background values, respectively. The source contributed human health risk index of As contributed 76.9% to non-carcinogenic risk by pollutant sources of agriculture activities. The Non-cancer health risk index for children and adults was 1.08 and 1.00 respectively. The cancer health risk was 3.67E-03 for children and 3.97E-04 for adults. Cr originated from indutriy activities, accounting for 29.5% of total heavy metals, and constituted the largest carcinogenic impact on the population. This study provided a new insight for the treatment of mutil-sources of soil heavy metal pollution and also some reference value for the improvement of the risk assessment system.
The Response of Electronic And Energetic Properties of Two Types of The Sp-hybridised Carbon-Carbon Bonds To An External Uniform Electric Field
Authors: Sadlej-Sosnowska Nina , Ocios-Bębenek Agnieszka , Boczar Dariusz
Published: September 2021

The susceptibility of electronic and energetic properties of two sets of molecules to perturbation in a uniform electric field was investigated. The molecules of one set were (10)cumulenes terminated with two functional groups, R1 and R2; those of the second set were (10)polyyenes substituted with the same R1 and R2 groups. The cumulene and polyyne molecules had similar lengths of the system of conjugated bonds between the two most extreme carbon atoms. Dipole moments and polarizabilities of the molecules were used as determinants of the overall charge transfer between polar groups and their modifications due to the application of an external electric field. The field was directed along the main (longest) axis of the molecules from the negative to the positive pole. Comparison of the polarizability values revealed that they were higher in the (10)cumulenes than in the (10)polyynes. Parabolic dependence of the molecular energy as function of field strength can be interpreted in terms of the response of electron density to an electric field.
Synthesis of Benzenesulfonamide Derivatives Via Ring Opening of Aziridines In The Presence of Magnetically Retrievable Graphene Based (CoFe@rGO) Nanohybrid.
Authors: Sheoran Ankush , Komal  , Kaur Jaspreet , Kaur Paramdeep , Agarwal Jyoti , Singhal Sonal
Published: September 2021

Graphene based magnetic nanohybrids have engrossed considerable research curiosity because of their exceptional properties and diverse applications associated with green chemistry. In this regard, a practical, facile and regioselective preparation of 1,2-diamines from N-tosylaziridine/(S)-(+)-2-Benzyl-1-(p-tolylsulfonyl)aziridine and aryl amines in the presence of magnetically separable graphene based nanohybrid (CoFe@rGO) has been proposed under mild and solvent free conditions. The FT-IR, FE-SEM, XRD and EDX spectroscopic analysis confirmed the formation of the CoFe@rGO nanohybrids. For unsymmetrical aziridine, nucleophilic attack of aryl amines was observed to take place selectively at the more substituted carbon atom of aziridine ring. Environmentally benign, efficient, shorter reaction time, solvent-free conditions, low catalyst loading, excellent reaction yields and reusability of the catalyst for six consecutive runs without significant loss in its activity are the key advantages of this protocol.
Genome‐wide Association Links Candidate Genes to Fruit Firmness, Fruit Flesh Color, Flowering Time, and Soluble Solid Content in Apricot (Prunus Armeniaca L.)
Authors: Ferik Filiz , Ates Duygu , Ercisli Sezai , Erdogan Abdullah , Orhan Emine , Tanyolaç Bahattin
Published: September 2021

Background Apricots originated from China, Central Asia and the Near East and arrived in Anatolia, and particularly in their second homeland of Malatya province in Turkey. Apricots are outstanding summer fruits, with their beautiful attractive color, delicious sweet taste, aroma and high vitamin and mineral content. Methods and results In the current study, a total of 259 apricots genotypes from different geographical origins in Turkey were used. Significant variations were detected in fruit firmness (FF), fruit flesh color (FFC), flowering time (FT), and soluble solid content (SSC). A total of 11,532 SNPs based on DArT were developed and used in the analyses of population structure and association mapping (AM). According to the STRUCTURE (v.2.2) analysis, the apricot genotypes were divided into three groups. The mixed linear model with Q and K matrixes were used to detect the associations between the SNPs and four traits. A total of 131 SNPs were associated with FF, FFC, and SSC. No SNP marker was detected associated with FT. Conclusion The results demonstrated that AM had high potential of revealing the markers associated with economically important traits in apricot. The SNPs identified in the study can be used in future breeding programs for marker-assisted selection in apricot.
Survival Analysis of Age-related Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Population Study Based on SEER
Authors: Wang Peipei , Guo Kaibo , Zhang Anlai , Li Wendi , Ding Shuning , Sun Leitao , Ruan Shanming
Published: September 2021

This research aimed to investigate the prognostic factors of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), especially the role of age. A total of 33619 cases of OSCC were received from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database during 2005–2015. Kaplan-Meier curves of 5-year overall survival rates and 5-year cancer specific survival rates were performed, and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis as well as competing risk model were used to help understand the relationship between various factors and mortality of OSCC. Compared to 18–39 years old group, the older age was an important predictor of worse prognosis. The multivariate analysis of overall survival (OS) were 50–59 years old (HR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.17–1.48; p ≤ .001), 60–69 years old (HR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.42–1.87; p ≤ .001) and 70 + years old (HR, 3.21; 95% CI, 2.86–3.62; p ≤ .001) respectively, while the specific value of competing risk model were 60–69 years old (HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.07–1.38; p = .002) and 70 + years old (HR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.63–2.10; p ≤ .001). In addition, female gender, unmarried, Blacks, tumor in floor of mouth, size and higher TNM classification were also other predictors that signify significant clinically deterioration of OS / CSS. Our research revealed that age was an important factor in explaining the difference of survival in the whole process of OSCC. It’s suggested that we should pay attention to the influence of age on diagnosis, treatment and prognosis in the clinical process.
Performance analysis of dual material junction accumulation mode tri gate junctionless SOI FET: Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Goswami Mrinmoy , Chattopadhyay Ankush , Bose Chayanika
Published: September 2021

The paper illustrates the performance of Tri-Gate (TG) Dual Material (DM) SOI (Silicon on Insulator) Junctionless (JL) FET operating in Junction Accumulation Mode (JAM). An analytical model is developed to evaluate its performance. The device is also simulated using Silvaco device simulator. Both the analytical and simulation results are compared and found to match closely. Quasi 3-D modeling approach is adopted here to determine the surface potential of the above device. In this technique, the entire 3-D device is segregated into two 2-D devices with certain physical constraints. These 2-D devices are then analyzed separately to obtain the surface potentials, which are added together using suitable multiplication factors to get the surface potential of the 3-D device. This surface potential is, in turn, used to model the threshold voltage, sub-threshold drain current ( I d,sub ) and the drain induced barrier lowering (DIBL). The proposed device configuration reduces the I OFF significantly and offers excellent immunity to SCEs. The response of the proposed device is studied for the variations of certain device parameters, such as, thickness of High- K dielectric layer in stack gate, channel doping, and the workfunctions as well as lengths of the gate metals. Such study will lead to turn the proposed device immune to short channel effects through proper choice of various parameters.
Eco-Biology of Photosynthetic Picoeukaryotes in a Monsoon Influenced Tropical Bay: A Flow Cytometric and Chemotaxonomic Approach
Authors: Mitbavkar Smita , D'souza Samantha
Published: September 2021

The composition and ecology of photosynthetic picoeukaryotes (PPEUK) are essential for microbial food web functioning. We hypothesize that the simultaneous use of flow cytometry (FCM) and High-Performance-Liquid-Chromatography (HPLC) tools will aid in discerning the dominant PPEUK groups contributing to abundance and biomass under prevailing environmental conditions. The PPEUK seasonal community abundance and pigment biomass were investigated from a south-west monsoon influenced tropical bay from June 2015-May 2016. A size-fractionated (< 3 µm) approach using FCM and HPLC revealed five and six PPEUK groups, respectively. Picocryptophytes dominated the PPEUK biomass under varied environmental conditions, whereas Picodiatoms contributed substantially, being abundant under turbulent, low-temperature, nutrient (NO3−, SiO44−) enriched conditions. The Picochlorophytes dominated the community numerically. The relatively higher abundance and biomass of Picoprasinophytes and a positive correlation with NO3− and NH4+ imply proliferation under higher nutrient concentrations. The least contributors to biomass were Picodinoflagellates and Picoprymnesiophytes. The relatively larger cell size of Picocryptophytes and Picodiatoms resulted in higher cumulative biomass, signifying their role in the microbial food web. Our study proposes incorporation of additional indicator pigments in algorithms used to estimate coastal picophytoplankton contribution to total phytoplankton biomass to avoid discrepancies.