bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Aquaculture and Capture Fisheries in Meeting Food and Nutrition Security: Testing a Nutrition-Sensitive Pond Polyculture Intervention in Rural Zambia
Authors: Kaminski Alexander M. , Little David C. , Middleton Lucinda , Syapwaya Muleya , Lundeba Mary , Johnson Jacob , Huchzermeyer Carl , Thilsted Shakuntala H.
Published: May 2022

This study tested the efficacy of a pond polyculture intervention with farming households in northern Zambia. Longitudinal data on fish consumption and the associated nutrient intake of households (N = 57) were collected over a six-month period (September 2019–March 2020). One group of people tested the intervention while another group that practiced monoculture tilapia farming, and a third group that did not practice aquaculture, acted as control groups. A similar quantity of fish was consumed on average; however, the associated nutrient intake differed, based on the quantity and type of species consumed, particularly for those who had access to pelagic small fish from capture fisheries. There was a decrease in fish consumption from December onward due to fisheries management restrictions. The ponds provided access to micronutrient-rich fish during this time. Pond polyculture can act as a complementary source of fish to capture fisheries that are subjected to seasonal controls, as well as to households that farm tilapia. Assessments of how aquatic foods can improve food and nutrition security often separate aquaculture and capture fisheries, failing to account for people who consume fish from diverse sources simultaneously. A nutrition-sensitive approach thus places food and nutrition security, and consumers, at the center of the analysis.
Stochastic Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics Assuming That Vacuum Fields Are Real
Authors: Santos Emilio
Published: May 2022

We characterize the electromagnetic vacuum as a stochastic field. Some consequences, like the particle behaviour of light, are studied. The stochastic approach is connected with the standard Hilbert space formalism via the Weyl transform. Several experiments involving spontaneous parametric down conversion are studied comparing Hilbert space and Weyl–Wigner formalisms. This allows an intuitive picture of entanglement to be obtained as a correlation between field fluctuations in distant places, involving the vacuum fields. The analysis shows that the Bell definition of local realism is not general enough, whence the reported violation of Bell inequalities does not refute local realism.
Intercomparison Experiment of Water-Insoluble Carbonaceous Particles in Snow in a High-Mountain Environment (1598 m a.s.l.)
Authors: Meinander Outi , Kasper-Giebl Anne , Becagli Silvia , Aurela Minna , Kau Daniela , Calzolai Giulia , Schöner Wolfgang
Published: May 2022

The harmonization of sampling, sample preparation and laboratory analysis methods to detect carbon compounds in snow requires detailed documentation of those methods and their uncertainties. Moreover, intercomparison experiments are needed to reveal differences and quantify the uncertainties further. Here, we document our sampling, filtering, and analysis protocols used in the intercomparison experiment from three laboratories to detect water-insoluble carbon in seasonal surface snow in the high-mountain environment at Kolm Saigurn (47.067842° N, 12.98394° E, alt 1598 m a.s.l.), Austria. The participating laboratories were TU Wien (Austria), the University of Florence (Italy), and the Finnish Meteorological Institute (Finland). For the carbon analysis, the NIOSH5040 and EUSAAR2 protocols of the OCEC thermal-optical method were used. The median of the measured concentrations of total carbon (TC) was 323 ppb, organic carbon (OC) 308 ppb, and elemental carbon (EC) 16 ppb. The methods and protocols used in this experiment did not reveal large differences between the laboratories, and the TC, OC, and EC values of four inter-comparison locations, five meters apart, did not show meter-scale horizontal variability in surface snow. The results suggest that the presented methods are applicable for future research and monitoring of carbonaceous particles in snow. Moreover, a recommendation on the key parameters that an intercomparison experiment participant should be asked for is presented to help future investigations on carbonaceous particles in snow. The work contributes to the harmonization of the methods for measuring the snow chemistry of seasonal snow deposited on the ground.
Dealing with Emotional Vulnerability and Anxiety in Nurses from High-Risk Units—A Multicenter Study
Authors: Arimon-Pagès Esther , Fernández-Ortega Paz , Fabrellas-Padrés Núria , Castro-García Ana María , Canela-Soler Jaume
Published: May 2022

Compassion fatigue and anxiety derived from continued exposure to trauma and death greatly impact nurses’ quality of care and quality of life, increasing their desire to leave work. The aim of the study is to assess compassion fatigue and anxiety prevalence and their association with secondary variables. A multicenter, cross-sectional study in nurses from four high-risk units, Emergency, Intensive Care, Oncology, and Pediatrics, was carried out in 14 hospitals in Catalonia (Spain) between 2015 and 2016. The primary endpoints were compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue (burnout and secondary traumatic stress), which were assessed by Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL), and anxiety, assessed with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Multivariable logistic regression analyzed the association of sociodemographic, training, working, and psychological factors. Of a total of 1302 nurses, 18.6% presented low compassion satisfaction; 19.7%, high burnout; and 36.4%, high secondary traumatic stress. Trait anxiety scored high in 7.2%. Although compassion satisfaction was present, it did not protect sufficiently against the high level of compassion fatigue or anxiety present in nurses in all centers. The working conditions in the units and variables showed a strong association with nurses’ desire to leave. This corroborates the global challenge of healthcare professionals’ shortage. Participants expressed the need for better training in emotional management.
Effects of Multifaceted Determinants on Individual Stress: The Mediating Role of Social Capital
Authors: Yu Chia-Yuan , Joh Kenneth , Woo Ayoung
Published: May 2022

Stress substantially results in various negative health outcomes. While there is a nexus between social capital and individual stress, previous studies have primarily explored the direct relationship between them. Social capital may potentially have an indirect effect on perceived stress via social networking pathways that provide accessible resources. This study addresses this research gap by exploring the mediating effect of social capital for associations between personal-level features, personal-level behaviors, physical environments, and perceived stress. A household drop-off survey of 600 respondents was collected from two neighborhoods in Korea and analyzed by structural equation models. Results showed that social capital acted as a mediator on perceived stress level. The frequency of community center use had both direct and indirect impacts on stress level through social capital. Those who were satisfied with the cleanliness of the neighborhood had a higher level of social capital and a lower level of stress indirectly through social capital. Households with more children had a lower level of social capital, while persons who had chronic disease and were more extroverted, agreeable, and open to others enjoyed a higher level of social capital. The results provide policy implications on how community revitalization affects social capital and perceived stress.
Evaluation of an Inpatient Psychiatric Mother-Baby Unit Using a Patient Reported Experience and Outcome Measure
Authors: Branjerdporn Grace , Hudson Carly , Sheshinski Roy , Parlato Linda , Healey Lyndall , Ellis Aleshia , Reid Alice , Finnerty Catherine , Arnott Rachelle , Curtain Rebecca , McLean Miranda , Parmar Snehal , Roberts Susan
Published: May 2022

Understanding the patient experience of admission to a psychiatric mother-baby unit (MBU) informs service improvement and strengthens patient-centered care. This study aims to examine patients’ experience, satisfaction, and change in mental health status related to MBU admission. At discharge, 70 women admitted to a public MBU completed the Patient Outcome and Experience Measure (POEM), rated the usefulness of therapeutic groups, and provided written qualitative feedback. Paired sample t-tests, correlations, and thematic content analysis were completed. Women were highly satisfied with the level of care and support received, particularly for those who were voluntarily admitted. Women reported an improvement in mental health from admission to discharge. Women appreciated the staff’s interpersonal skills, provision of practical skills, education, advice, support from other women, and therapeutic groups offered. Women suggested improvements such as having greater food choices, more MBU beds, more group sessions, family visitations, which had been restricted due to COVID-19, environmental modifications, and clarity of communication surrounding discharge. This study highlights the benefits of MBUs and the specific aspects of care that are favorable in treating women with mental illnesses who are co-admitted with their baby in an MBU.
Clinical Evaluation of the Optical Filter for Autofluorescence Glasses for Oral Cancer Curing Light Exposed (GOCCLES®) in the Management of Potentially Premalignant Disorders: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lajolo Carlo , Tranfa Mariateresa , Patini Romeo , Fiorino Antonino , Musarra Teresa , Boniello Roberto , Moro Alessandro
Published: May 2022

Background: Any oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) must be regularly monitored through clinical examination to detect any possible malignant transformation. Conventional intraoral exams, however, can be difficult because these conditions may resemble benign lesions. For this reason, several non-invasive diagnostic technologies have been developed to help the clinician in detecting and distinguishing between cancerous and benign lesions. Epithelial dysplasia can be considered the most important predictor of malignant evolution. Therefore, in this study we aim to evaluate the ability of an optical filter for autofluorescence Glasses for Oral Cancer Curing Light Exposed (GOCCLES®) and of toluidine blue staining in identifying dysplastic areas in patients with OPMDs. Methods: In this retrospective study, medical records, photographs and videos of 25 patients with oral lesions were analyzed. Forty-two biopsy samples in 25 patients with OPMDs and at least one suspicious oral mucosa lesion that were evaluated in white light, autofluorescence with optical filter GOCCLES®, toluidine blue staining and then biopsied with histopathological analysis were analyzed. Results: The sensitivity and specificity for the autofluorescence evaluation with GOCCLES® for identifying dysplasia or carcinoma were 66% and 48%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values were 34% and 77%, respectively, and the accuracy was 53%. The sensitivity and specificity for toluidine blue staining were 91% and 68%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values were 55% and 95%, respectively, and the accuracy was 75%. Conclusions: The optical filter for autofluorescence (GOCCLES®) and toluidine blue staining are simple, inexpensive, rapid and non-invasive procedures that can assist the clinician in distinguishing OPMDs from healthy mucosa but they are not able to distinguish benign and malignant lesions.
Impact of Oral Rinsing with Octenidine Based Solution on SARS-CoV-2 Loads in Saliva of Infected Patients an Exploratory Study
Authors: Smeets Ralf , Pfefferle Susanne , Büttner Henning , Knobloch Johannes K. , Lütgehetmann Marc
Published: May 2022

Objective: In this study, the in-vivo effect of an antiseptic mouth rinse with Octenisept plus phenoxyethanol (OCT + PE) on the oral SARS-CoV-2 load was investigated. Material and Methods: In eight COVID-19 patients, saliva samples were obtained before mouth rinsing and at five time points post rinsing with OCT + PE (n = 47 saliva samples in total). SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected and quantified by RT-qPCR and virus isolation in cell culture was performed to assess for infectivity. Results: Immediately after mouth rinsing (1 min), a significant reduction of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA loads in saliva was achieved (p = 0.03) with 7/8 participants having SARS-CoV-2 RNA levels undetectable by RT-qPCR. At later time points, RNA levels returned to baseline levels in all study participants. Infectivity of saliva samples was demonstrated by successful virus isolation from saliva samples collected at later time points. Conclusions: This study highlights that saliva samples from COVID-19 patients are infectious and demonstrates that mouth rinsing with OCT + PE temporarily leads to a significant reduction of the SARS-CoV-2 load in saliva. Clinical relevance: Mouth rinsing with OCT + PE could provide a simple, rapid, and efficient method for SARS-CoV-2 infection prevention, particularly in the field of dental and respiratory medicine
Temporal Trends in Oral Anticoagulant Prescription in Atrial Fibrillation Patients between 2004 and 2019
Authors: Gorczyca-Głowacka Iwona , Bielecka Bernadetta , Wałek Paweł , Chrapek Magdalena , Ciba-Stemplewska Agnieszka , Jelonek Olga , Kot Anna , Czyżyk Anna , Pióro Maciej , Major Agnieszka , Wożakowska-Kapłon Beata
Published: May 2022

Background: In the recent years, antithrombotic prophylaxis in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) has changed significantly. The main aim of this study is to assess the temporal trends of antithrombotic therapy and identify factors predisposing oral anticoagulant (OAC) use in stroke prevention in AF patients. Methods: The present study is a retrospective, observational, single-center study, which includes consecutively hospitalized patients in the reference cardiology center from January 2004 to December 2019. Results: A total of 9656 patients (43.7% female, mean age 71.2 years) with AF between 2004–2019 are included. Among the total study population, in most of the patients (81.1%), OAC therapy was used, antiplatelet (APT) therapy was prescribed for 13.5% patients, heparins for 2.1% patients and 3.3% of patients did not receive any stroke prevention. OAC prescription significantly increased from 61.6% in 2004 to 97.4% in 2019. The independent predictors of OAC prescription were: the period of hospitalization, non-paroxysmal AF, age, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, previous thromboembolism, hospitalization due to electrical cardioversion, ablation or AF without any procedures. Conclusions: In hospitalized patients with AF, during sixteen years of the study period, a significant increase in OAC use and a decrease in APT use were noted. Factors other than these included in the CHA2DS2-VASc score were independent predictors of OAC use.
Stress in Balancing Work and Family among Working Parents in Hong Kong
Authors: Chen Qiqi , Chen Mengtong , Lo Camilla Kin Ming , Chan Ko Ling , Ip Patrick
Published: May 2022

Work-life imbalance might lead to detrimental outcomes, including family dissatisfaction, poor performance in the workplace, and poor mental and physical health. This population-based study aims to explore the situation and trends in regard to work-life balance among working men and women in 2017, with a special focus on the stress experienced in work and personal lives. Descriptive analysis and multiphase regression are used to explore the associations of work-life imbalance with individual and family factors. Males’ satisfaction with the amount of time spent at work was most significantly related to the level of work-life stress. Both males’ and females’ satisfaction with work life, family life, and the amount of time spent at work and with family were all negatively related to the level of work-life stress. Participants who were not in marital or cohabiting status reported significantly higher levels of work-life stress. Participants who had childcare support reported higher levels of work-life stress than those who looked after their children by themselves or their partners. A similar pattern was found among participants involved in elderly care. This study provides insight into family policy that could promote balance in professional and personal life and relationships.
Topological and Multivalent Effects in Glycofullerene Oligomers as EBOLA Virus Inhibitors
Authors: Ramos-Soriano Javier , Illescas Beatriz M. , Pérez-Sánchez Alfonso , Sánchez-Bento Raquel , Lasala Fátima , Rojo Javier , Delgado Rafael , Martín Nazario
Published: May 2022

The synthesis of new biocompatible antiviral materials to fight against the development of multidrug resistance is being widely explored. Due to their unique globular structure and excellent properties, [60]fullerene-based antivirals are very promising bioconjugates. In this work, fullerene derivatives with different topologies and number of glycofullerene units were synthesized by using a SPAAC copper free strategy. This procedure allowed the synthesis of compounds 1–3, containing from 20 to 40 mannose units, in a very efficient manner and in short reaction times under MW irradiation. The glycoderivatives were studied in an infection assay by a pseudotyped viral particle with Ebola virus GP1. The results obtained show that these glycofullerene oligomers are efficient inhibitors of EBOV infection with IC50s in the nanomolar range. In particular, compound 3, with four glycofullerene moieties, presents an outstanding relative inhibitory potency (RIP). We propose that this high RIP value stems from the appropriate topological features that efficiently interact with DC-SIGN.
Cloning and Functional Characterization of Dog OCT1 and OCT2: Another Step in Exploring Species Differences in Organic Cation Transporters
Authors: Meyer Marleen Julia , Falk Simon , Römer Sarah , Prinzinger Clarissa , Tacke Sabine , Geyer Joachim , Simm Stefan , Tzvetkov Mladen Vassilev
Published: May 2022

OCT1 and OCT2 are polyspecific membrane transporters that are involved in hepatic and renal drug clearance in humans and mice. In this study, we cloned dog OCT1 and OCT2 and compared their function to the human and mouse orthologs. We used liver and kidney RNA to clone dog OCT1 and OCT2. The cloned and the publicly available RNA-Seq sequences differed from the annotated exon-intron structure of OCT1 in the dog genome CanFam3.1. An additional exon between exons 2 and 3 was identified and confirmed by sequencing in six additional dog breeds. Next, dog OCT1 and OCT2 were stably overexpressed in HEK293 cells and the transport kinetics of five drugs were analyzed. We observed strong differences in the transport kinetics between dog and human orthologs. Dog OCT1 transported fenoterol with 12.9-fold higher capacity but 14.3-fold lower affinity (higher KM) than human OCT1. Human OCT1 transported ipratropium with 5.2-fold higher capacity but 8.4-fold lower affinity than dog OCT1. Compared to human OCT2, dog OCT2 showed 10-fold lower transport of fenoterol and butylscopolamine. In conclusion, the functional characterization of dog OCT1 and OCT2 reported here may have implications when using dogs as pre-clinical models as well as for drug therapy in dogs.
Physosmotic Induction of Chondrogenic Maturation Is TGF-β Dependent and Enhanced by Calcineurin Inhibitor FK506
Authors: Jahr Holger , van der Windt Anna E. , Timur Ufuk Tan , Baart Esther B. , Lian Wei-Shiung , Rolauffs Bernd , Wang Feng-Sheng , Pufe Thomas
Published: May 2022

Increasing extracellular osmolarity 100 mOsm/kg above plasma level to the physiological levels for cartilage induces chondrogenic marker expression and the differentiation of chondroprogenitor cells. The calcineurin inhibitor FK506 has been reported to modulate the hypertrophic differentiation of primary chondrocytes under such conditions, but the molecular mechanism has remained unclear. We aimed at clarifying its role. Chondrocyte cell lines and primary cells were cultured under plasma osmolarity and chondrocyte-specific in situ osmolarity (+100 mOsm, physosmolarity) was increased to compare the activation of nuclear factor of activated T-cells 5 (NFAT5). The effects of osmolarity and FK506 on calcineurin activity, cell proliferation, extracellular matrix quality, and BMP- and TGF-β signaling were analyzed using biochemical, gene, and protein expression, as well as reporter and bio-assays. NFAT5 translocation was similar in chondrocyte cell lines and primary cells. High supraphysiological osmolarity compromised cell proliferation, while physosmolarity or FK506 did not, but in combination increased proteoglycan and collagen expression in chondrocytes in vitro and in situ. The expression of the TGF-β-inducible protein TGFBI, as well as chondrogenic (SOX9, Col2) and terminal differentiation markers (e.g., Col10) were affected by osmolarity. Particularly, the expression of minor collagens (e.g., Col9, Col11) was affected. The inhibition of the FK506-binding protein suggests modulation at the TGF-β receptor level, rather than calcineurin-mediated signaling, as a cause. Physiological osmolarity promotes terminal chondrogenic differentiation of progenitor cells through the sensitization of the TGF-β superfamily signaling at the type I receptor. While hyperosmolarity alone facilitates TGF-β superfamily signaling, FK506 further enhances signaling by releasing the FKBP12 break from the type I receptor to improve collagenous marker expression. Our results help explain earlier findings and potentially benefit future cell-based cartilage repair strategies.
Revealing the Chemical Composition of Birch Pollen Grains by Raman Spectroscopic Imaging
Authors: Stiebing Clara , Post Nele , Schindler Claudia , Göhrig Bianca , Lux Harald , Popp Jürgen , Heutelbeck Astrid , Schie Iwan W.
Published: May 2022

The investigation of the biochemical composition of pollen grains is of the utmost interest for several environmental aspects, such as their allergenic potential and their changes in growth conditions due to climatic factors. In order to fully understand the composition of pollen grains, not only is an in-depth analysis of their molecular components necessary but also spatial information of, e.g., the thickness of the outer shell, should be recorded. However, there is a lack of studies using molecular imaging methods for a spatially resolved biochemical composition on a single-grain level. In this study, Raman spectroscopy was implemented as an analytical tool to investigate birch pollen by imaging single pollen grains and analyzing their spectral profiles. The imaging modality allowed us to reveal the layered structure of pollen grains based on the biochemical information of the recorded Raman spectra. Seven different birch pollen species collected at two different locations in Germany were investigated and compared. Using chemometric algorithms such as hierarchical cluster analysis and multiple-curve resolution, several components of the grain wall, such as sporopollenin, as well as the inner core presenting high starch concentrations, were identified and quantified. Differences in the concentrations of, e.g., sporopollenin, lipids and proteins in the pollen species at the two different collection sites were found, and are discussed in connection with germination and other growth processes.
Circulating Noncoding RNAs in Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors—Two Sides of the Same Coin
Authors: Butz Henriett
Published: May 2022

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNET) are common intracranial neoplasms. While in case of hormone secreting tumors pituitary hormone measurements can be used for monitoring the disease, in non-functional tumors there is a need to discover non-invasive biomarkers. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are popular biomarker candidates due to their stability and tissue specificity. Among ncRNAs, miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs have been investigated the most in pituitary tumor tissues and in circulation. However, it is still not known whether ncRNAs are originated from the pituitary, or whether they are casually involved in the pathophysiology. Additionally, there is strong diversity among different studies reporting ncRNAs in PitNET. Therefore, to provide an overview of the discrepancies between published studies and to uncover the reasons why despite encouraging experimental data application of ncRNAs in clinical routine has not yet taken hold, in this review available data are summarized on circulating ncRNAs in PitNET. The data on circulating miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs are organized according to different PitNET subtypes. Biological (physiological and pathophysiological) factors behind intra- and interindividual variability and technical aspects of detecting these markers, including preanalytical and analytical parameters, sample acquisition (venipuncture) and type, storage, nucleic acid extraction, quantification and normalization, which reveal the two sides of the same coin are discussed.
CD73/Adenosine Pathway Involvement in the Interaction of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Stem Cells and Bone Cells in the Pre-Metastatic Niche
Authors: Bertolini Giulia , Compagno Mara , Belisario Dimas Carolina , Bracci Cristiano , Genova Tullio , Mussano Federico , Vitale Massimo , Horenstein Alberto , Malavasi Fabio , Ferracini Riccardo , Roato Ilaria
Published: May 2022

Adenosinergic signaling is an important regulator of tissue homeostasis and extracellular accumulation of adenosine (Ado) and is associated with different pathologies, such as cancer. In non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), a subset of CD133/CXCR4+ cancer stem cell (CSCs) has been demonstrated to initiate bone metastases. Here we investigated how NSCLC CSCs interact with osteoclasts (OCs) and osteoblasts (OBs) by modulating Ado production and OC activity. We proved that CSC-spheres, generated in vitro from NSCLC cell lines, express CD38, PC-1, and CD73, enzymes of the non-canonical adenosinergic pathway, produce high level of Ado, and down-regulate A1R and A3R inhibitory receptors, while expressing A2AR and A2BR. To address the Ado role and modulation of the in-bone pre-metastatic niche, we performed co-cultures of CSC-spheres with OCs and OBs cells. Firstly, we verified that active OCs do not activate non-canonical the adenosinergic pathway, conversely to OBs. OCs co-cultured with CSC-spheres increase Ado production that is related to the OC resorption activity and contributes to T-cell suppression. Finally, we proved the efficacy of anti-CD73 agents in blocking NSCLC cell migration. Overall, we assessed the importance of adenosinergic signaling in the interaction between CSCs and OCs at the pre-metastatic niche, with therapeutic implications related to Ado production.
Molecular Classes and Growth Hormone Treatment Effects on Behavior and Emotion in Patients with Prader–Willi Syndrome
Authors: Mahmoud Ranim , Swanson Heidi D. , Butler Merlin G. , Flodman Pamela , Gold June-Anne , Miller Jennifer L. , Roof Elizabeth , Osann Kathryn , Dykens Elisabeth , Driscoll Daniel J. , Kimonis Virginia
Published: May 2022

Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a complex genetic disorder with three genetic classes. Patients with PWS are characterized by severe hypotonia, developmental delay, behavioral problems, learning disabilities and morbid obesity in early childhood if untreated. Data were collected through Rare Disease Clinical Research Network (RDCRN) from four study centers which evaluated patients with PWS. The Behavior Assessment System for Children 2nd edition (BASC-2) was chosen to provide behavioral assessment. Data from 330 participants ((64% 15q11-q13 deletion (DEL), 36% maternal disomy 15 (UPD)) were separated into three age groups and analyzed, 68% of whom were still actively receiving recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) treatment. When comparing the BASC results by molecular subtype, parent-reported aggression was higher for the deletion than for the UPD cohort (p = 0.007). Participants who were on rhGH treatment showed lower scores for parent-reported hyperactivity and aggression (p = 0.04, 0.04, respectively), and a trend for anger control (p = 0.06) and teacher-reported attention problems and aggression (p = 0.01, 0.004, respectively). Additional adjusted analyses were undertaken and significant differences were noted in the GH versus non-GH treated groups for only teacher-reported aggression, which increased in the No GH treated patient group (p = 0.03). This study showed documented differences in PWS behavior by molecular class and rhGH treatment. RhGH therapy may be beneficial for certain behaviors in patients with PWS; however, observed differences need more studies for confirmation in the future.
Systematic Review and Metaanalysis of Worldwide Incidence and Prevalence of Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Redondo-Rodriguez Rocío , Mena-Vázquez Natalia , Cabezas-Lucena Alba María , Manrique-Arija Sara , Mucientes Arkaitz , Fernández-Nebro Antonio
Published: May 2022

Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the worldwide incidence and prevalence of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). Methods: A systematic search of Medline and Embase was conducted until June 2020 for studies that analyzed the incidence and prevalence of patients aged >16 years diagnosed with AAV in different geographical areas. A meta-analysis was undertaken to estimate the pooled incidence per million person-years and prevalence per million persons in AAV overall and for each subtype of AAV: granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). The 95% confidence interval (CI) and I2 for heterogeneity were calculated. Results: The meta-analysis included 25 studies that met the inclusion criteria and covered a total of 4547 patients with AAV. Frequency increased over time. The global pooled incidence (95% CI) was 17.2 per million person-years (13.3–21.6) and the global pooled prevalence (95% CI) was 198.0 per million persons (187.0–210.0). The pooled incidence per million person-years for each AAV subtype varied from highest to lowest, as follows: GPA, 9.0; MPA, 5.9; and EGPA, 1.7. The individual pooled prevalence per million persons was, as follows: GPA, 96.8; MPA, 39.2; and EGPA, 15.6. AAV was more predominant in the northern hemisphere. By continent, a higher incidence in America and pooled prevalence of AAV was observed in America and Europe. Conclusion: The pooled incidence and prevalence of AAV seem to be increasing over time and are higher in the case of GPA. AAV was generally more frequent (incidence and prevalence) in the northern hemisphere.
The COVID-19 Pandemic Is Associated with Reduced Survival after Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Diagnosis: A Single-Centre Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Madge Oliver , Brodey Alexandra , Bowen Jordan , Nicholson George , Sivakumar Shivan , Bottomley Matthew J.
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has hugely disrupted healthcare provision, including oncology services. To evaluate the effects of the pandemic on referral routes leading to diagnosis, treatments, and prognosis in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, we performed a retrospective cohort study at a single tertiary centre in the UK. The patients were identified from the weekly hepatopancreatobiliary multidisciplinary team meetings between February 2018 and March 2021. The demographic, referral, and treatment data for each patient and date of death, where applicable, were extracted from the electronic patient record. The patients (n = 203) were divided into “pre-pandemic” and “pandemic” cohorts based on a referral date cut-off of 23rd March 2020. The median survival was 7.4 months [4.9–9.3] in the “pre-pandemic” cohort (n = 125), halving to 3.3 months [2.2–6.0], (p = 0.015) in the “pandemic” cohort (n = 78). There was no significant difference in patient characteristics between the two cohorts. There was a trend toward increased emergency presentations at diagnosis and reduced use of surgical resection in the “pandemic” cohort. This small-scale study suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with a halving of median survival in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Urgent further studies are required to confirm these findings and examine corresponding effects in other cancer types.
Vertebral Body Tethering: Indications, Surgical Technique, and a Systematic Review of Published Results
Authors: Raitio Arimatias , Syvänen Johanna , Helenius Ilkka
Published: May 2022

Vertebral body tethering (VBT) represents a new surgical technique to correct idiopathic scoliosis using an anterior approach, spinal instrumentation with vertebral body screws, and a cable compressing the convexity of the curve. According to the Hueter-Volkmann principle, compression reduces and distraction increases growth on the growth plates. VBT was designed to modulate spinal growth of vertebral bodies and hence, the term ‘growth modulation’ has also been used. This review describes the indications and surgical technique of VBT. Further, a systematic review of published studies was conducted to critically evaluate the results and complications of this technique. In a total of 23 included studies on 843 patients, the preoperative main thoracic curve corrected from 49 to 23 degrees in a minimum 2 year follow-up. The complication rate of VBT was 18%. The results showed that 15% of VBT patients required reoperations for pulmonary or tether-related issues (10%) and less than 5% required conversion to spinal fusion. While the reported median-term results of VBT appear promising, long-term results of this technique are currently lacking.
Changes in Cultivated Land Loss and Landscape Fragmentation in China from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Wang Xue
Published: May 2022

Cultivated land area and fragmentation are two crucial elements that influence food production in China. However, few studies have analyzed the fine-grained changes in both the area and the fragmentation of cultivated land from a national perspective. Using a 30 m annual land-cover dataset with the help of cultivated land area (CA) and a newly constructed coupling landscape fragmentation index (CLFI), this research identified the spatial distribution characteristics of both the area and the landscape fragmentation of cultivated land in Chinese counties and simultaneously analyzed the changes in the above two elements since the beginning of the 21st century. The results showed that the distribution pattern of CA in China’s counties was large in the north and small in the south. During the first two decades of the 21st century, the total CA of China decreased, but the decrease rate decreased from 2.91% in 2000–2010 to 0.41% in 2010–2020; in contrast, the CLFI of China showed an increasing trend, but the increase rate also decreased, from 4.06% in 2000–2010 to 0.51% in 2010–2020. Spatially, from 2000 to 2010, there was an obvious reverse distribution pattern between counties with large CA changes and those with large CLFI changes; however, this pattern became less obvious from 2010 to 2020. Urban expansion, sloping land conversion programs and other ecological protection programs, and land development and consolidation programs were major causes of changes in the CA and CLFI across China. The findings of this research provide a data basis and scientific support for the protection and large-scale utilization of cultivated land, where this information is necessary to ensure food security.
Household Livelihood Strategy Changes and Agricultural Diversification: A Correlation and Mechanism Analysis Based on Data from the China Family Panel
Authors: Zhu Jiguang , Sun Yaru , Song Yunxing
Published: May 2022

Social and economic transformations have a profound impact on farmers’ livelihood strategies, and changes in these strategies, in turn, deeply impact the agricultural system. Based on four waves of China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) tracking data, this paper uses a Markov transfer probability matrix to explore changes in farmers’ livelihood strategies and builds multiple logit and fixed-effect models to empirically analyze the impact and lag effect of these changes on agricultural diversification. The results show that (1) farmers who choose not to shift away from an agricultural livelihood show no significant change in agricultural diversification. Compared with households showing an increase in the agricultural diversification index, households showing a decrease in this index are more inclined to diversify if they choose to maintain an agricultural livelihood either part-time or full-time. For households with an unchanged agricultural diversification index, their index value is more likely to remain unchanged if they choose to maintain a part-time or full-time agriculture-oriented livelihood. Moreover, (2) the impact of livelihood strategy changes on agricultural diversification displays regional heterogeneity. The index value of farmers in the central region shows no statistically significant change over the sample period, while the index value of farmers in the eastern region increases. Farmers in the eastern and central regions with unchanged index values are more inclined to show persistent index values. (3) Changes in farmers’ livelihood strategies have a lag effect on agricultural diversification that becomes significant at two lag periods.
Temporal and Spatial Effects of Urbanization on Regional Thermal Comfort
Authors: Zhang Yang , Zhang Chao , Yang Kun , Peng Zongqi , Tang Linfeng , Duan Haimei , Wu Changhao , Luo Yi
Published: May 2022

Human urbanization has a great impact on the surface ecological environment, and few existing studies have explored the impact of urbanization on regional comfort on a long time scale. This study took Chenggong District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China, where urbanization was obvious, as the study area, and used the comfort evaluation model to evaluate the annual summer Discomfort Index (DI) in different periods of urbanization. Meanwhile, the impact strength of each factor characterizing human activities (Impervious surface, Gross National Product, and Total Population) on DI changes was analyzed, and the contribution rate of the main factors was quantified. The experimental results show that (1) over the past 20 years, under the background of the rapid economic development of Chenggong District, the annual average DI in summer showed an upward trend. The growth rate after the completion of University Town (2010–2020, Post-UT) was higher than that before the completion of University Town (2001–2005, Pre-UT). University Town was growing much faster than other regions. The monthly average DI changes were similar to the annual average changes. However, due to the movement of students in University Town during the summer vacation, the growth rate of DI in June was significantly higher than that in other months. (2) In terms of spatial changes, DI in the central and northwestern parts of Chenggong District increased significantly from 2001 to 2020. There were differences in the change rate before and after the completion of University Town. The area occupied by significant growth areas in June was much higher than in other months. It is proved that the economic and social development of Chenggong District would impact the regional human comfort, and the construction of University Town has aggravated the intensity of this impact. (3) In the during-UT, affected by the complex changes in land use types, the DI in Chenggong District showed fluctuations in time, but there was no obvious change in space. (4) The correlation and contribution analysis showed that the annual average DI in summer was closely related to human activities, especially the impervious surface had a strong contribution rate of 52.7%. The research shows that the development of new cities would have a strong impact on regional DI changes. And the obtained results will provide theoretical support for rational planning and management in the process of urban development in the future, thereby promoting the sustainable development of the region.
Diabetic Neuropathic Cachexia: A Clinical Case and Review of Literature
Authors: Bellelli Alessio , Santi Daniele , Simoni Manuela , Greco Carla
Published: May 2022

A 46-year-old man was admitted to the surgical department because of abdominal pain and anemia, with the radiological finding of a perforated duodenal ulcer, and underwent laparoscopic surgical treatment. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) had been diagnosed 5 years earlier and treated with diet. At clinical investigation, the patient was depressed and anorexic; moreover, he complained of lower extremity weakness and bilateral feet pain, burning in nature and accompanied by allodynia. This painful sensation had been preceded by an 8-month history of fatigue and anorexia with profound weight loss of 35 kg. After clinical evaluation and a nerve conduction study, diagnosis of diabetic cachectic neuropathy was made based on the rapid onset of severe neuropathic pain in the context of diabetic neuropathy, marked weight loss, and depressed mood. The therapy with pregabalin and duloxetine had scarce effect and was gradually discontinued. The patient, however, obtained progressive relief and amelioration of neuropathic lower-limb pain concomitant with weight gain. This clinical trend also confirmed the diagnosis of this rare form of diabetic neuropathy. A few cases of diabetic neuropathic cachexia have been reported in the literature and are briefly reviewed here.
Progress and Recent Strategies in the Synthesis and Catalytic Applications of Perovskites Based on Lanthanum and Aluminum
Authors: Muñoz Helir Joseph , Korili Sophia A. , Gil Antonio
Published: May 2022

Lanthanum aluminate-based perovskite (LaAlO3) has excellent stability at high temperatures, low toxicity, and high chemical resistance and also offers wide versatility to the substitution of La3+ and Al3+, thus, allowing it to be applied as a catalyst, nano-adsorbent, sensor, and microwave dielectric resonator, amongst other equally important uses. As such, LaAlO3 perovskites have gained importance in recent years. This review considers the extensive literature of the past 10 years on the synthesis and catalytic applications of perovskites based on lanthanum and aluminum (LaAlO3). The aim is, first, to provide an overview of the structure, properties, and classification of perovskites. Secondly, the most recent advances in synthetic methods, such as solid-state methods, solution-mediated methods (co-precipitation, sol–gel, and Pechini synthesis), thermal treatments (combustion, microwave, and freeze drying), and hydrothermal and solvothermal methods, are also discussed. The most recent energetic catalytic applications (the dry and steam reforming of methane; steam reforming of toluene, glycerol, and ethanol; and oxidative coupling of methane, amongst others) using these functional materials are also addressed. Finally, the synthetic challenges, advantages, and limitations associated with the preparation methods and catalytic applications are discussed.
Influence of Solvent-Dependent Morphology on Molecular Doping and Charge Transport in Conductive Thiophene Polymer
Authors: Chai Haoyu , Li Hui , Zhong Fei , Xu Zhen , Bai Shengqiang , Chen Lidong
Published: May 2022

The utility of a solvent is one of the key factors that impacts resultant film morphology. However, the effect of solvent-dependent morphology on the doping process and electrical conductivity has not been adequately elucidated. In this work, we compared the morphology of chloroform- and chlorobenzene-processed thiophene polymer films and investigated how the choice of solvent influences film morphology, doping level, charge transport properties, and thus electrical conductivity. It was found that the film drop-casted from chloroform exhibits better crystallinity than that drop-casted from chlorobenzene. The crystallinity has negligible impact on the doping level but significant impact on charge transport properties. As a result, the chloroform-processed film shows a higher electrical conductivity of up to 408 S cm−1 due to a high carrier mobility related to the continuously crystalline domains in film. This finding indicates that the choice of solvent for preparation of film, which strongly correlated with molecular orientation, is a new strategy to optimize the electrical conductivity of doped polymers.
Influence of Al/Ti Ratio and Ta Concentration on the As-Cast Microstructure, Phase Composition, and Phase Transformation Temperatures of Lost-Wax Ni-Based Superalloy Castings
Authors: Grudzień-Rakoczy Małgorzata , Rakoczy Łukasz , Cygan Rafał , Chrzan Konrad , Milkovič Ondrej , Pirowski Zenon
Published: May 2022

The as-cast microstructure, alloying element segregation, solidification behavior, and thermal stability of model superalloys based on Inconel 740 with various Al/Ti ratios (0.7, 1.5, 3.4) and Ta (2.0, 3.0, 4.0 wt%) concentrations were investigated via ThermoCalc simulations, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, dilatometry, and differential scanning calorimetry. The solidification of the superalloys began with the formation of primary γ dendrites, followed by MC carbides. The type of subsequently formed phases depended on the superalloys’ initial Al/Ti ratio and Ta concentration. The results obtained from solidification simulations were compared to the obtained microstructures. For all castings, the dendritic regions consisted of fine γ′ precipitates, with their size mainly depending on the initial Al/Ti ratio, whereas in the interdendritic spaces, (Nb, Ta, Ti)C carbides and Nb-rich Laves phase precipitates were present. In high Al/Ti ratio superalloys, β-NiAl precipitates, strengthened by η and α-Cr phases, were observed. Based on dilatometric results, the dissolution of γ′ precipitates was accompanied by a substantial increase in the coefficient of thermal expansion. The end of the dilatation effect took place around the γ′ solvus temperature, as determined via calorimetry. Moreover, the bulk solidus temperature was preceded by the dissolution of the Laves phase, which may be accompanied by local melting.
Some Pinching Results for Bi-Slant Submanifolds in S-Space Forms
Authors: Aquib Mohd , Khan Meraj Ali , Mihai Adela , Mihai Ion
Published: May 2022

The objective of the present article is to prove two geometric inequalities for submanifolds in S-space forms. First, we establish inequalities for the generalized normalized δ-Casorati curvatures for bi-slant submanifolds in S-space forms and then we derive the generalized Wintgen inequality for Legendrian and bi-slant submanifolds in the same ambient space. We also discuss the equality cases of the inequalities. Further, we provide some immediate geometric applications of the results. Finally, we construct some examples of slant and Legendrian submanifolds, respectively.