bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tracing the roots: clarification on the type locality of Halobates sexualis Distant (Heteroptera: Gerridae)
Authors: SAMUEL AMOS SHEM
Published: March 2020

The marine water strider Halobates sexualis Distant, 1903 was originally described from the estuary of Jambu River (Distant 1903). This species has been recorded from Malaysia (Cheng 1985, Zettel & Tran 2009, Ikawa et al. 2012), Sri Lanka (Andersen & Foster 1992, Ikawa et al. 2012) and Thailand (Román-Palacios et al. 2018). In the pioneering work by Herring (1961) on this genus, he mentioned the type locality to be “Estuary of the Jambu River, Malaya.” Andersen and Foster (1992) provided notes on the whereabouts of the type locality of this species and mentioned that it was probably located in northern Malaya (Kuala Jambu) immediately south of the border of Thailand on the Gulf of Siam coast. Andersen and Cheng (2004) further backed this up by mentioning Malaysia in the range of H. sexualis, which was not recorded from Malaysia until 2009 (Zettel & Tran 2009) but also stated that it was not verified personally. However, Distant (1903) mentioned the collection locality as “Estuary of the Jambu River, Jhering.” According to the Map of the Malay Peninsula published around the same time period in 1898 by Stanford, London (RASGBI 1898), Jambu or Jering is located along the coast of Yaring (formerly Jhering/Jering) which is a District Town in Pattani Province of Thailand. This location is about 120 km northwest of the previously presumed location by Andersen & Foster (1992; see fig. 24) and is most likely the site of collection, which is in present-day Thailand. The type locality of this species should thus be attributed to Thailand instead of Malaysia.
Systematic Gauge-Including Atomic Orbital-Hybrid Density Functional Theory Linear Regressions for 13C NMR Chemical Shifts Calculation
Authors: Souza Sara Sâmitha , Martins Mariana Aparecida de Souza , Neto Antonio Maia de Jesus Chaves , Mota Gunar Vingre Da Silva , Costa Fabio Luiz Paranhos
Published: March 2020

Density-functional theory calculations of the magnetic shielding for nuclear magnetic resonance provide an important contribution to understand the experimental values obtained in laboratory for chemical shifts present in the samples. From of a comparative of the performance of ten
hybrid functional within of the framework of the density-functional theory using 10 different hybrid functionals with 3-21G (B1), 6-31G(d) (B2) and 6-31+ G(d, p) (B3) basis set, with intuit of evaluating of performance of the 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance from a representative
of the terpene class and a heterocyclic compound, (–)-loliolide ((7aR)-6-hydroxy-4,4,7a-trimethyl-6,7-dihydro-5H1-benzofuran-2-one). This molecule, satisfactorily, represents the main structure of this class, with conformational freedom, optical activity and a benzofuran nucleus. The
ωB97X-D, MPW1K and HSEH1PBE functionals presented the best calculation performance. It is interesting to note that after the use of linear regressions all root mean square error values for ωB97X-D were lower than 3 ppm. These are 2.91 ppm (B1), 2.46 (B2) ppm and 2.62 ppm (B3).
The information contained in this work can be used for the assignment of experimental nuclear magnetic resonance spectra and will motivate further studies involving the theoretical calculation of the chemical shift of 13C.
Synthesis of Newer Mercury(II) Complexes of Meso-Tetraaryl-21,23-Dithiaporphyrins
Authors: Bhattacharya Soumee , Narang Uma , Yadav Kumar Karitkey , Dandia Anshu , Chauhan Shive M. S.
Published: March 2020

Due to the larger size of hetero atom and poor binding with metals, N2X2 type of core modified porphyrins show lesser tendency to form metal complexes. Mercury(II) complexes of symmetrical and unsymmetrical meso-tetraaryl-21,23-dithiaporphyrins are synthesized
and characterized by the reaction of corresponding meso-tetraaryl-21,23-dithiaporphyrins with mercuric acetate in chloroform/methanol. These mercury complexes are well characterized by their UV-Visible spectra, fluorescence spectra, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and elemental analysis.
Soret bands of mercury complex of unsymmetrical 5,20-bis-(4′-methoxyphenyl)-10,15-bisphenyl-21,23-dithiaporphyrin appeared at 442 nm and 462 nm whereas Q band appeared at 516 nm, 560 nm, 620 nm and 714 nm. Appearance of four Q bands is characteristic for this mercury complex
of N2X2 type of core modified porphyrins. Mercury complex of unsymmetrical 5,20-bis-(4′-methoxyphenyl)-10,15-bisphenyl-21,23dithiaporphyrin is an excellent fluorescent molecule and showed fluorescence spectrum at 722 nm. These core modified porphyrin complexes provides
a good coordination examples of mercury complexes of 21,23-dithiaporphyrins that can be used in sensing applications.
A Modified Mutation-Sensitive On/Off Switch and Its Application in B-Raf Proto-Oncogene Hotspot Mutation Assay
Authors: Xu Xinlan , Xiao Li , Zhang Jia , Luo Dixian , Wang Li , Peng Zhuang , Liao Duanfang , Xing Chungen , Pu Wangyang , Li Kai
Published: March 2020

The combination of phosphorothioate-modified primer and high-fidelity DNA polymerase constitute a mutation sensitive on/off switch. Herein, a modified mutation-sensitive on/off switch was designed with an extra point mutation at 5′ far away from the 3′ of the phosphorothioate
modified primer to test the power of the new enzymes: Phusion, Q5 and Phanta UC polymerases. A modified on/off switch with the introduction of an extra point mismatched nucleotide at –8 from the 3′ terminus, and the use of Phanta UC Super-fidelity DNA polymerase has been confirmed
to be highly sensitive and specific as compared to those without the 5′ artificial mismatched nucleotide, when applied in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis of BRAF hotspot mutation.
Polyaniline@BaZrO3 Nanocomposites for Hydrogen Production Under Visible Light
Authors: Mohamed Reda M. , Kadi Mohammad W. , Alhothali Hanan T.
Published: March 2020

Polyaniline@BaZrO3 nanocomposites with particular mass proportions of polyaniline/BaZrO3 were fabricated in this study. The catalytic action of the specimens was resolved amid photocatalytic production of hydrogen beneath Vis light irradiation. It was noticed that
specific surface areas for the BaZrO3 nanospherical were 140 m2/g, which is the highest value reached in our new preparation method. Addition of polyaniline to BaZrO3 nanospherical spheres slightly decreased the surface areas to 130 m2/g. TEM micrographs
revealed that the BaZrO3 and polyaniline@BaZrO3 specimens appeared as homogenous nanospherical composites. With introduction of PANI, the polyaniline@BaZrO3 nanocomposite structures were not obviously changed. The very low content of PANI within the nanocomposites
accounted for its disappearance within the images of the composites. The evolved hydrogen under visible-light irradiation using 0.12% polyaniline/BaZrO3 photocatalyst was 13000 μmol g–1h–1 within 9 h using 2.0 g/L photocatalyst dose.
Degradation of Foron Dye by Means of Orderly Dispersion of MoS2 Nanoparticles on Mesoporous ZnO Systems Using Visible Light
Authors: Mkhalid I. A.
Published: March 2020

For the first time, we in this study prepared uniform MoS2 nanoparticles on ZnO mesoporous. XRD patterns established that the synthesized ZnO and MoS2/ZnO samples were composed of ZnO phase. The TEM results revealed that MoS2 and ZnO were very close
to each other, with 4–8 nm in sizes of particles. The MoS2/ZnO nanocomposites have many advantages, and some of these advantages are large surface area (105 m2g–1 and large pore volume (0.19 cm3g–1. Foron blue dye degradation
over 3 wt% MoS2/ZnO nanocomposite was 254 times larger than that of mesoporous zinc oxide. Also, Foron blue dye degradation over 3 wt% MoS2/ZnO nanocomposite was 1.8 and 1.2 times greater than that of 0.5 wt% MoS2/ZnO and 1 wt% MoS2/ZnO nanocomposite,
respectively. The increased Foron blue dye degradation by increase wt% of MoS2, due to increased separation of charge carrier and high capacity of light-harvesting. Moreover, high foron blue dye degradation was due to formation of a heterostructure between ZnO and MoS2,
which accelerated charge carrier separation and improved degradation efficiency. The XPS and HRTEM results revealed that the MoS2 nanoparticles were deposited on the ZnO surface.
Approximating Lyapunov Exponents of Discrete Dynamical Systems
Authors: Al-Shameri Wadia Faid Hassan
Published: March 2020

Lyapunov exponents play a significant part in revealing and quantifying chaos, which occurs in many areas of science and technology. The purpose of this study was to approximate the Lyapunov exponents for discrete dynamical systems and to present it as a quantifier for inferring and
detecting the existence of chaos in those discrete dynamical systems. Finally, the approximation of the Lyapunov exponents for the discrete dynamical system was implemented using the Matlab code listed in the Appendix.
Geographic Heterogeneity in Otolaryngology Medicare New Patient Visits
Authors: Hur Kevin , Gibbons Joseph , Finch Brian Karl
Published: March 2020

Objective

To analyze the spatial variation of sociodemographic factors associated with the geographic distribution of new patient visits to otolaryngologists.

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional analysis.

Setting

United States.

Subject and Methods

Medicare new patient visits pooled from 2012 to 2016 to otolaryngology providers were obtained from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and county‐level sociodemographic data were obtained from the 2012‐2016 American Community Survey. The mean number of new patient visits per otolaryngology provider by county was calculated. The spatial variation was analyzed with negative binomial and geographically weighted regression. Predictors included various neighborhood characteristics.

Results

There were 7,199,129 Medicare new patient visits to otolaryngology providers from 2012 to 2016. A 41.7‐fold difference in new patient evaluation rates was observed across US counties (range, 11‐458.8 per otolaryngology provider). On multivariable regression analysis, median age, sex, work commute time, percentage insured, and the advantage index of a county were predictors for the rate of new patient visits to otolaryngology providers. However, geographically weighted regression demonstrated that the association of a county’s disadvantage index, advantage index, percentage insured, and work commute times with new patient visits per provider varied across space.

Conclusions

There are wide geographic differences in the number of new Medicare patients seen by otolaryngologists, and the influence of county sociodemographic factors varied regionally. Further research to analyze the variations in practice patterns of otolaryngologists is warranted to predict future public health needs.
Young Adult Perceptions of Internet Communications and the Grooming Concept
Authors: Wood Amy C. , Wheatcroft Jacqueline M.
Published: March 2020

Research of young people shows a lack of understanding of the term grooming in online communications and that internet risks are taken because internet literacy is poor for this group. However, limited research has investigated the perceptions of young adults in this context. The aim of this study was to understand young adults’ perceptions of risk, their internet behaviors, and understanding of the grooming concept. Furthermore, to understand the types of risk behaviors young people engage in online, whether they perceive these behaviors as risky, and what implications this has for vulnerability to negative experiences. An examination of internet communication perceptions and the grooming concept focused on 10 young males and females aged between 18 and 23 years. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at open access youth organizations in the North West of England, UK, and the duration of each interview was approximately 30 min. The data were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Emergent themes were (a) grooming as a concept, (b) virtual lives, and (c) perception of risk. The findings concur there is limited understanding of the term grooming but that explanations may not be simply confined to literacy. Risks being taken online were not always perceived as risky. Recommendations include the need for a more nuanced definition of the term grooming and that more information is available to children and caregivers. Further work should focus on younger participants’ perceptions of grooming to address wider issues, together with a focus on risk taking behaviors among other vulnerable groups.
Airway Obstruction After Bilateral Mandibular Parasymphyseal Fracture: A Case Report
Authors: Aires Carolina Chaves Gama , Ramos Lucas Viana Silva , De Figueiredo Eugênia Leal , De Bortoli Manoela Moura , Vasconcellos Ricardo José De Holanda
Published: March 2020

Bilateral mandibular parasymphyseal fractures may compromise airway maintenance. The aim of the present study is to report the case of a patient with bilateral parasymphyseal fracture who developed some degree of airway obstruction and required urgent surgical treatment. A 19-year-old female motorcycle accident victim presenting bilateral mandibular parasymphyseal fractures evolved with difficulty breathing, 5 hours after trauma. To improve the patient’s clinical condition, urgent surgical treatment 12 hours after the trauma was opted. The fractures were fixed with two 2.0-mm plate and screw systems at each fractured site. After surgery, the patient evolved with good oxygen saturation and no difficulty in breathing. Occlusion obtained during surgery remained satisfactory and stable over the 2-year postoperative follow-up. Emergency surgical treatment of the bilateral mandibular parasymphyseal fracture was imperative in the present case since the patient developed respiratory distress after the trauma.
Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea in acute coronary syndrome patients: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Le Grande Michael R. , Beauchamp Alison , Driscoll Andrea , Jackson Alun C.
Published: March 2020

Background

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) has been recognised as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and cardiovascular events such as acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Since it is also known to reduce exercise tolerance, it is important to establish the prevalence of OSA in ACS patients, particularly in those who are commencing cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs.

Methods

Using PRISMA guidelines a systematic search was conducted in order to identify studies that objectively measured (using polysomnography or portable monitoring) the prevalence of OSA in ACS patients following hospital admission. A data extraction table was used to summarise study characteristics and the quality of studies were independently assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Prevalence Critical Appraisal Tool. Meta-analysis of the selected studies was conducted in order to estimate OSA prevalence as a function of the two main methods of measurement, the severity of OSA, and timing of the OSA assessment following ACS hospital admission.

Results

Pooled prevalence estimates of OSA using the “gold standard” polysomnography ranged from 22% for severe OSA to 70% for mild OSA, at any time after hospital admission. Similar prevalence estimates were obtained using portable monitoring, but interpretation of these results are limited by the significant heterogeneity observed among these studies.

Conclusions

Prevalence of OSA following ACS is high and likely to be problematic upon patient entry into CR programs. Routine screening for OSA upon program entry may be necessary to optimise effectiveness of CR for these patients.
Operative versus nonoperative treatment in children with painful rigid flatfoot and talocalcaneal coalition
Authors: Di Gennaro Giovanni Luigi , Stallone Stefano , Olivotto Eleonora , Zarantonello Paola , Magnani Marina , Tavernini Tullia , Stilli Stefano , Trisolino Giovanni
Published: March 2020

Background

The management of painful rigid flatfoot (RFF) with talocalcaneal coalition (TCC) is controversial. We aimed to compare operative and nonoperative treatment in children with RFF and TCC.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records and radiographs of children with RFF and TTC treated between 2005 and 2015. The nonoperative treatment consisted of manipulation under anesthesia, cast immobilization and shoe insert after cast removal. The operative treatment consisted of combined TCC resection, graft interposition and subtalar arthroereisis.

Results

Thirty-four children (47 ft) in the nonoperative group and twenty-one children (34 ft) in the operative group were included. No differences were found between groups, concerning baseline characteristics. The mean age at treatment was 11.8 years (9–17): 11.6 (9–17) for the nonoperative group, 12.2 (10–15) for the operative group. The mean follow-up averaged 6.6 (3–12) years and was significantly longer in the nonoperative group (7.8 versus 4.7 years;p < 0.0005), since the operative procedure was increasingly practiced in the latest years.

There were no complications in either groups, but 6 patients (7 ft) in the nonoperative group were unsatisfied and required surgery. At the latest follow-up, the AOFAS-AHS improved in both groups, although the operative group showed significantly better improvement. The operative group reported also significantly better FADI score, after adjustment for follow-up and baseline variables.

Conclusion

The operative treatment showed better results compared to the nonoperative treatment. Symptomatic RFF with TCC in children can be effectively treated in one step with resection, graft interposition and subtalar arthroereisis. Further prospective randomized studies are needed to confirm our findings and to identify the best operative strategy in this condition.
Perianal Paget’s disease: a clinicopathological and immunohistochemical study of 13 cases
Authors: Liao Xiaoyan , Liu Xiuli , Fan Xuemo , Lai Jinping , Zhang Dongwei
Published: March 2020

Background

Perianal Paget’s disease (PPD) is rare and mostly described in clinical literature as case reports or small series.

Methods

We investigated the clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical features of PPD in a total of 13 cases retrieved from multiple academic institutions.

Results

The median age at diagnosis was 75 (range 50–86) years. Males were predominant with a male to female ratio of 2.25:1. Four (30.8%) cases were classified as primary PPD due to lack of synchronous or metachronous underlying malignancies, while nine (69.2%) were classified as secondary PPD with concurrent invasive adenocarcinoma (n = 8) or tubular adenoma with high-grade dysplasia (n = 1). Immunohistochemically, there is no differential expression of CK7 or CK20 in Paget’s cells between primary and secondary PPD; however, GCDFP-15 was only positive in primary PPD (3/3 vs. 0/6, P = 0.012), while CDX2 was only positive in secondary PPD (0/3 vs. 7/7, P = 0.008), suggesting different cell origin. All patients received local surgical resection with or without adjuvant therapy. After a median follow-up of 47 months, one patient with secondary PPD (7.7%) died of disease progression from underlying adenocarcinoma.

Conclusions

PPD occurs in elderly patients with male predominance and is frequently associated with underlying malignancies. Differential expression of CDX2 and GCDFP-15 may help distinguishing primary vs. secondary PPD, which is important for management as the presence of an underlying malignancy impacts clinical course and prognosis. Surgical excision remains the major treatment strategy for PPD. Long-term follow-up is required to monitor the disease recurrence and metastasis.
The effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in functional outcome and quality of life (QoL) of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) requiring surgery
Authors: Ko Sangbong , Chae Seungbum , Choi Wonkee , Kwon Jaibum , Choi Je-Yong
Published: March 2020

Study design

This is a retrospective cohort comparative study.

Background

Vitamin D supplementation is considered to be associated with good functional outcome. Thus, a few studies have proposed vitamin D supplementation is benefit to the functional outcome in LSS requiring surgery. The purpose of this study is to identify the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in patients with LSS requiring surgery, and to compare the differences between the cases whether vitamin D is supplemented and vitamin D is not supplemented in terms of a QoL during postoperative 2 year.

Methods

All patients with LSS who underwent surgery from March 1, 2015 to August 31, 2016 were enrolled. Among them, 61 patients with vitamin D deficiency were divided into two groups (supplemented group (A) and non-supplemented group (B)). Functional outcomes using Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Rolland Morris Disability Index (RMDQ) and QoL using SF-36 were evaluated at 12-month and 24-month follow-up periods. Differences in functional score and SF-36 between the vitamin D supplemented and non-supplemented group were compared.

Results

Among the total 102 patients, 78 patients (76.5%) had vitamin D deficiency. Of the 78 patients, 61 patients were included, 27 patients were group A and 27 patients were group B. There was no difference in age and 25-OHD level between the two groups (all 0 > 0.05). Group A were better functional outcomes at 2 years after surgery (p < 0.05). On the QoL, group A were higher score than group B from 12 month later after surgery (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency was highly prevalent in LSS patients (76.5%). Assessment of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is recommended in LSS needing surgical intervention and active treatment vitamin D supplementation and maintenance of normal range should be considered for better postoperative functional outcome and QoL.
Mid- to long-term results of modified non-vascularized allogeneic fibula grafting combined with core decompression and bone grafting for early femoral head necrosis
Authors: Changjun Chen , Donghai Li , Xin Zhao , Liyile Chen , Qiuru Wang , Pengde Kang
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study was to determine mid-and-long term follow-up results of patients with early femoral head osteonecrosis who were treated by modified free vascularized fibular grafting combined with core decompression and bone grafting.

Methods

Forty-four patients at early ONFH were included in this study. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, range of hip motion (ROM), and Harris hip score (HHS) were recorded to assess the clinical outcome; Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) scores and Short Form 36 health survey (SF-36) were conducted to measure the living quality; X-ray film or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to evaluate radiographic progression; survivorship was defined as patients did not undergo the total hip arthroplasty (THA) or fusion at the last follow-up. Median follow-up was 7.4 years (6–8.2 years).

Results

The mean VAS score, ROM, and HHS were significantly improved at the final follow-up compared with preoperative values (p < 0.001). Health assessment including WOMAC scores and SF-36 were also better than those preoperatively (p < 0.001). Seven patients progressed to Ficat III and the four patients progressed to Ficat IV with osteoarthritis. Eight patients who cannot tolerate the pain and had poor living quality underwent THA.

Conclusion

Modified non-vascularized allogeneic fibula Grafting combined with core decompression and bone grafting could improve the clinical outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients with early ONFH.
Oligomannuronate prevents mitochondrial dysfunction induced by IAPP in RINm5F islet cells by inhibition of JNK activation and cell apoptosis
Authors: Liu Xi , Li Qiong , Cheng Xiaolei , Liu Zhichun , Zhao Xiaoliang , Zhang Shuai , Yu Guangli , Zhao Xia , Hao Jiejie
Published: March 2020

Background

Oligomannuronates (OM) are natural products from alginate that is frequently used as food supplement. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro protective effects of OM on RINm5F cells against human Islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) induced mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

In the present study, we obtained several kinds of OM with different molecular masses, and then we used RINm5F cells as a model to elucidate the involvement of JNK signal pathway in hIAPP-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in pancreatic beta cells, and the protective effects of OM are associated with its ability to attenuate the mitochondrial dysfunction.

Results

Our results demonstrated that human IAPP induced mitochondrial dysfunction, as evidence by loss of ΔΨm and ATP content, and decrease in oxygen consumption and complex activities, was accompanied by JNK activation, changes in the expressions of Bcl-2 and Bax proteins, release of cytochrome c (Cyto-c) and apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) from mitochondria into cytosol. Interestingly, the human IAPP induced damage in RINm5F cells were effectively restored by co-treatment of OM. Moreover, JNK activation was required for the OM mediated changes in RINm5F cells.

Conclusions

OM prevented mitochondrial dysfunction induced by human IAPP in RINm5F islet cells through JNK dependent signaling pathways.
Oral health interventions for people living with mental disorders: protocol for a realist systematic review
Authors: Kenny Amanda , Dickson-Swift Virginia , Gussy Mark , Kidd Susan , Cox Dianne , Masood Mohd , Azul David , Chan Carina , Christian Bradley , Theobold Jacqui , Hodge Brad , Knevel Ron , McKinstry Carol , Couch Danielle , Hyett Nerida , Veginadu Prabhakar , Doroud Nastaran
Published: March 2020

Background

The increasing number of people who experience mental disorders is a global problem. People with mental disorders have high rates of co-morbidity and significantly poorer oral health outcomes than the general public. However, their oral health remains largely a hidden and neglected issue. A complex range of factors impact the oral health of this group. These include anxiety and dental phobia, dietary habits, including the heavy consumption of sugary drinks, substance misuse of tobacco, alcohol, and/or psychostimulants, the adverse orofacial side effects of anti-psychotic and anti-depression medications, and financial, geographic, and social barriers to accessing oral health care.

Methods

The aim of this realist systematic review is to (a) identify and synthesise evidence that explores oral health interventions for people living with mental disorders; (b) explore the context and mechanisms that have contributed to the success of interventions or the barriers and challenges; (c) produce program theories on causal, contextual and mechanistic factors to facilitate outcomes and (d) produce recommendations and guidelines to guide future oral health interventions for people with mental disorders at both the policy and practice level. Using a five-step process, that incorporates primary data collection from key stakeholders, a beginning theoretical framework will be developed to describe contextual and mechanistic factors and how they might impact on the success or failure of oral health interventions for people with mental disorders. Key database searches will be conducted, with data extraction focused on the factors that might have impacted on intervention implementation and outcomes. Quality appraisal of studies will occur, and the theoretical framework will be populated with extracted data. Stakeholder input will support the development and refinement of a theory on oral health interventions for people with mental disorders.

Discussion

This will be the first review to take a realist approach to explore the broad scope of causal factors that impact on the success or failure of oral health interventions for people with mental disorders. The approach includes extensive stakeholder engagement and will advance realist systematic review methodology. Review outcomes will be important in guiding policy and practice to ensure oral health interventions better meet the needs of people with mental disorders.

Systematic review registrationThis review protocol is registered with PROSPERO (Number) 155969.
Constraints and advances in high-solids enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass: a critical review
Authors: da Silva Ayla Sant’Ana , Espinheira Roberta Pereira , Teixeira Ricardo Sposina Sobral , de Souza Marcella Fernandes , Ferreira-Leitão Viridiana , Bon Elba P. S.
Published: March 2020

The industrial production of sugar syrups from lignocellulosic materials requires the conduction of the enzymatic hydrolysis step at high-solids loadings (i.e., with over 15% solids [w/w] in the reaction mixture). Such conditions result in sugar syrups with increased concentrations and in improvements in both capital and operational costs, making the process more economically feasible. However, this approach still poses several technical hindrances that impact the process efficiency, known as the “high-solids effect” (i.e., the decrease in glucan conversion yields as solids load increases). The purpose of this review was to present the findings on the main limitations and advances in high-solids enzymatic hydrolysis in an updated and comprehensive manner. The causes for the rheological limitations at the onset of the high-solids operation as well as those influencing the “high-solids effect” will be discussed. The subject of water constraint, which results in a highly viscous system and impairs mixing, and by extension, mass and heat transfer, will be analyzed under the perspective of the limitations imposed to the action of the cellulolytic enzymes. The “high-solids effect” will be further discussed vis-à-vis enzymes end-product inhibition and the inhibitory effect of compounds formed during the biomass pretreatment as well as the enzymes’ unproductive adsorption to lignin. This review also presents the scientific and technological advances being introduced to lessen high-solids hydrolysis hindrances, such as the development of more efficient enzyme formulations, biomass and enzyme feeding strategies, reactor and impeller designs as well as process strategies to alleviate the end-product inhibition. We surveyed the academic literature in the form of scientific papers as well as patents to showcase the efforts on technological development and industrial implementation of the use of lignocellulosic materials as renewable feedstocks. Using a critical approach, we expect that this review will aid in the identification of areas with higher demand for scientific and technological efforts.
Common occurrence of divergent Cryptosporidium species and Cryptosporidium parvum subtypes in farmed bamboo rats (Rhizomys sinensis)
Authors: Li Falei , Zhang Zhenjie , Hu Suhui , Zhao Wentao , Zhao Jianguo , Kváč Martin , Guo Yaqiong , Li Na , Feng Yaoyu , Xiao Lihua
Published: March 2020

Background

Bamboo rats are widely farmed in southern China for meat, but their potential in transmitting pathogens to humans and other farm animals remains unclear.

Methods

To understand the transmission of Cryptosporidium spp. in these animals, 709 fecal samples were collected in this study from Chinese bamboo rats (Rhizomys sinensis) on nine farms in Jiangxi, Guangxi and Hainan provinces, China. They were analyzed for Cryptosporidium spp. using PCR and sequence analyses of the small subunit rRNA gene. Cryptosporidium parvum, C. parvum-like and C. ubiquitum-like genotypes identified were subtyped by sequence analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene.

Results

Altogether, Cryptosporidium spp. were detected in 209 (29.5%) samples. The detection rate in samples from animals under two months of age (70.0%,105/150) was significantly higher than in samples from animals above 2 months (18.6%, 104/559; χ2 = 150.27, df = 1, P < 0.0001). Four Cryptosporidium species/genotypes were identified: C. parvum (n = 78); C. occultus (n = 1); a new genotype that is genetically related to C. ubiquitum (n = 85); and another new genotype that is genetically related to C. parvum (n = 44). Among them, C. parvum (27,610 ± 71,911 oocysts/gram of feces) and the C. parvum-like genotype (38,679 ± 82,811 oocysts/gram of feces) had higher oocyst shedding intensity than the C. ubiquitum-like genotype (2470 ± 7017 oocysts/gram of feces) and the C. occultus (1012 oocysts/gram of feces). The C. parvum identified belonged to three subtypes in two rare subtype families, including IIpA9 (n = 43), IIpA6 (n = 6) and IIoA15G1 (n = 9), while the C. parvum-like and C. ubiquitum-like genotypes generated very divergent gp60 sequences.

Conclusions

Results of the present study suggest that bamboo rats on the study farms were infected with diverse Cryptosporidium species and divergent C. parvum subtypes, which probably had originated from their native habitats. As similar C. parvum subtypes have been recently detected in humans and farmed macaques, attentions should be paid to the potential role of these new farm animals in the transmission of zoonotic pathogens.
Haemonchus contortus: siRNA mediated knockdown of matrix metalloproteinase 12A (MMP-12) results in reduction of infectivity
Authors: Naqvi Muhammad Ali-ul-Husnain , Li Hao , Gao Wenxiang , Naqvi Sana Zahra , Jamil Tahseen , Aimulajiang Kalibixiati , Xu Lixin , Song Xiaokai , Li Xiangrui , Yan Ruofeng
Published: March 2020

Background

RNA interference (RNAi) is an important tool to determine the role of genes. RNAi has been widely used to downregulate target molecules, resulting in the reduction of mRNA for protein expression. Matrix metalloprotease 12A (MMP-12) is known to have important roles during embryonic development, organ morphogenesis and pathological processes in animals. However, MMP-12 from Haemonchus contortus has not been characterized.

Methods

Haemonchus contortus MMP-12 gene was cloned and recombinant protein of MMP-12 (rHc-MMP-12) was expressed. Binding activities of rHc-MMP-12 to goat peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were assessed by immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and the immuno-regulatory effects of rHc-MMP-12 on cell proliferation and nitric oxide production were observed by co-incubation of rHc-MMP-12 with goat PBMCs. Furthermore, a soaking method was used to knockdown the expression of Hc-MMP12 gene using three siRNA, targeting different regions of the gene and infectivity of effective siRNA on the development of H. contortus was evaluated in goat.

Results

rHc-MMP-12 was successfully expressed in an expression vector as well as the tissues of the cuticle of adult H. contortus worms and a successful binding with PBMCs surface were observed. Increased cellular proliferation and nitric oxide production by goat PBMCs was observed in a dose-dependent manner. Quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) results confirmed the successful silencing of Hc-MMP-12 gene in siRNA of 1, 2 and 3 treated third-stage larvae (L3) of H. contortus in vitro. The most efficient qRT-PCR-identified siRNA template was siRNA-2, with a 69% suppression rate compared to the control groups. Moreover, in an in vivo study, silencing of the Hc-MMP-12 gene by siRNA-2 reduced the number of eggs (54.02%), hatchability (16.84%) and worm burden (51.47%) as compared to snRNA-treated control group. In addition, a shorter length of worms in siRNA-2-treated group was observed as compared to control groups.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that siRNA-mediated silencing of Hc-MMP-12 gene in H. contortus significantly reduce the egg counts, larval hatchability, and adult worm counts and sizes. The findings of the present study demonstrate important roles of Hc-MMP-12 in the development of H. contortus.
Resistance status of Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) to four commonly used insecticides for malaria vector control in South-East Nigeria
Authors: Chukwuekezie Okechukwu , Nwosu Emmanuel , Nwangwu Udoka , Dogunro Festus , Onwude Cosmas , Agashi Nneka , Ezihe Ebuka , Anioke Clementina , Anokwu Stephen , Eloy Emelda , Attah Peter , Orizu Francis , Ewo Sylvester , Okoronkwo Angela , Joseph Anumba , Ikeakor Ijeoma , Haruna Sylvester , Gnanguenon Virgile
Published: March 2020

Background

Progress made in the control of malaria vectors globally is largely due to the use of insecticides. However, success in the fight against malaria has slowed down or even stalled due to a host of factors including insecticide resistance. The greatest burden of the disease is felt in Africa, particularly Nigeria. Unfortunately, adequate information on insecticide resistance is lacking in many parts of the country, particularly the South-East Zone. Hence, this study aims to bridge the information gap in the Zone.

Methods

The study was conducted from April to December 2016. Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) larvae and pupae were collected from one community each, in the five states of the South-East Zone and reared to the adult stage. The adults were subjected to bioassays for insecticide resistance in accordance with the World Health Organization test procedures, across the four classes of insecticides used in public health. The mosquitoes were also subjected to molecular identification to the species level, and genotyped for West African knockdown resistance mutation (L1014F) and insensitive acetylcholinesterase-1 resistance mutation (G119S).

Results

The mosquitoes were susceptible (100%) to bendiocarb but resistant to pirimiphos-methyl (39.6%), deltamethrin (57%) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) (13%). Molecular analysis revealed that only An. gambiae (sensu stricto) was found in all the states except for Ebonyi, where only Anopheles coluzzii was present. High frequencies (0.6–0.9) of the L1014F mutation were found across the zone. The L1014F mutation was significantly higher in An. gambiae (s.s.) than in An. coluzzii (P < 0.0001). A relatively low frequency (0.2) of the G119S mutation was found in An. coluzzii, and only in Ebonyi State.

Conclusion

The results show that mosquitoes collected from the South-East Zone of Nigeria were resistant to all insecticides used, except for bendiocarb. The presence of L1014F and G119S resistance mutations reported in this study calls for urgent attention to stop the growing threat of insecticide resistance in the country.
Geodesy in Japan: legends and highlights
Authors: Heki Kosuke
Published: March 2020

Here, I review modern history of geodesy and geodynamics in Japan, highlighting a few episodes during the last two centuries. The review starts with the first measurement of the meridional arc length in Japan by Tadataka Ino (1745–1818) early in the nineteenth century, done as a part of the mapping campaign of the country. Next, I mention the first international recognition of Japanese geodesy realized by the discovery of a new term in the Earth’s polar motion by Hisashi Kimura (1870–1943) at the beginning of the twentieth century. Finally, I review an unsuccessful campaign to detect present-day continental drift in Japan shortly before World War II, conducted by the Geodetic Committee of Japan being inspired by the hypothesis of active opening of the Sea of Japan by Torahiko Terada (1878–1935).
Lessons from April 6, 2009 L’Aquila earthquake to enhance microzoning studies in near-field urban areas
Authors: Vessia Giovanna , Rainone Mario Luigi , De Santis Angelo , D’Elia Giuliano
Published: March 2020

This study focuses on two weak points of the present procedure to carry out microzoning study in near-field areas: (1) the Ground Motion Prediction Equations (GMPEs), commonly used in the reference seismic hazard (RSH) assessment; (2) the ambient noise measurements to define the natural frequency of the near surface soils and the bedrock depth. The limitations of these approaches will be discussed throughout the paper based on the worldwide and Italian experiences performed after the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake and then confirmed by the most recent 2012 Emilia Romagna earthquake and the 2016–17 Central Italy seismic sequence. The critical issues faced are (A) the high variability of peak ground acceleration (PGA) values within the first 20–30 km far from the source which are not robustly interpolated by the GMPEs, (B) at the level 1 microzoning activity, the soil seismic response under strong motion shaking is characterized by microtremors’ horizontal to vertical spectral ratios (HVSR) according to Nakamura’s method. This latter technique is commonly applied not being fully compliant with the rules fixed by European scientists in 2004, after a 3-year project named Site EffectS assessment using AMbient Excitations (SESAME). Hereinafter, some “best practices” from recent Italian and International experiences of seismic hazard estimation and microzonation studies are reported in order to put forward two proposals: (a) to formulate site-specific GMPEs in near-field areas in terms of PGA and (b) to record microtremor measurements following accurately the SESAME advice in order to get robust and repeatable HVSR values and to limit their use to those geological contests that are actually horizontally layered.
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Hale Jason E. , Cheng Jianguo
Published: March 2020

Despite conservative and surgical treatments, patients with neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome can develop debilitating chronic pain of the shoulder and arm. Here we report a case of a patient who failed medical treatment, surgical resection of the first rib, and subsequent resection of rib regrowth with partial excision of a hypertrophied middle scalene muscle. Ultimately, this patient was successfully treated with spinal cord stimulation with dramatic pain relief and remarkable functional improvement for more than 3 years. This first report provides hope for those who suffer from this debilitating syndrome.
Manual handling: the challenges of different care environments
Authors: Johnstone Jacqueline
Published: March 2020

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) continue to be a problem in the health and social care setting, despite staff receiving mandatory manual handling training for many decades. The author discusses WRMSDs, with a focus on various nursing roles. The principle of manual handling as solely ‘person moving’ or ‘transferring’ is challenged because a range of activities can cause musculoskeletal problems. The legislation and regulations are explored in relation to practice. The benefits of introducing a specific risk-assessment tool designed for nurses working in neonatal wards is discussed.
Just culture and staff wellbeing
Authors: Foster Sam
Published: March 2020

Sam Foster, Chief Nurse, Oxford University Hospitals, considers the issue of poor physical and mental health in the context of the complaints process, just culture and workplace support
My nursing story
Authors: White Sharon
Published: March 2020

2020 has been designated the Year of the Nurse and Midwife. Sharon White shares her story on how she got into nursing and midwifery and why this was the right choice for her.
‘Lol you go to gulag’: The role of Sassy Socialist Memes in Leftbook1
Authors: Bowen Bernadette
Published: March 2020

Since 2016, a culture of participatory leftism has emerged on Facebook that has yet to be substantially documented. Scholars have established ideographic criticism of memes as a critical/cultural tool for analysis. However, there is little to no work on broader, systems-based analyses of alternative social media platforms, and the role they play in the creation and maintenance of political identities. These socially mediated communities, alternatively known as Leftbook (or Left Facebook), advertise themselves as places to learn about Marx, socialism and philosophies centred on labour, revolution and worker freedom. Research from traditional online group pages suggests there is a distinct split between neutral observers and harsh critics of Leftbook. These online spaces often result in odd, hilarious and peculiar behaviours that the untrained eye is quick to dismiss as meaningless Internet drivel. However, humour and satire have long been used tactfully by counterculture organizations/movements to communicate the absurdity of the status quo. For instance, Waisanen argued that unlikely sources of comedic rhetorical criticism creatively influence and critically reframe political discourse; guiding audiences towards new possibilities of insight and democratic civil discourse. Using Johnson’s explanations of memetics as a guiding theory, I discuss Burke’s various works on human paradox, identification, Dramatism and the comic frame to provide insight on notions of: identity performance, ‘slacktivism’ and burgeoning political resonance within this digital environment. I code preliminary themes of the post content of one Leftbook page, ‘Sassy Socialist Memes’, over the course of a month. My guiding research questions are ‘[a]s platforms such as Leftbook become environmental, how do they contribute to a mode of socio-political identity construction for members of the Left?’ and ‘[a]s extensions of political identity, how does the ‘Sassy Social Memes’ page impact experiences of political organizing and engagement?’.
Fans vs. critics: Challenging critical authority through memes
Authors: Soegito Anthony
Published: March 2020

This article explores how fans of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) film franchise challenge the authority of film critics regarding their negative appraisal of comic book filmBatman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice(Snyder, 2016). Observing memes shared in Facebook fan pages, I argue that fans construct their own authority by defining themselves against critics via questioning critics’ taste, constructing critics as villains, and enacting their own sophisticated cultural capital. My research shows how fans use Internet memes to control the discussion and validation of their object of fandom amongst fans on social media. Observing the year following the film’s release, this study analyses memes via a visual rhetoric and modal analysis. While comic-book movie fandom has previously been academically explored, this subset of fans remains under-analysed. What is at stake for DCEU fans is the respect of popular culture, social media and fandom at large, their status impacted by the film’s critical failure.
Caracterización de los estudiantes de una institución de educación superior mediante big data
Authors: Hoyos Pineda Jorge Gabriel , Aponte Novoa Fredy Andrés
Published: March 2020

El artículo presenta resultados de un proyecto de investigación cuyo objetivo principal consistió en realizar la caracterización de los estudiantes de una institución de educación superior mediante el uso de técnicas y herramientas de big data. Esto con el propósito de dotar a la institución de una herramienta para apoyar la toma de decisiones relacionadas con la comunidad estudiantil. El proyecto se desarrolló en cinco fases: definición de la estrategia; captura y medición de los datos; análisis de los datos; generación de un informe de resultados; y, transformación del negocio. Como técnicas de análisis de datos se utilizaron el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson y el agrupamiento mediante k-means. Como resultado, se obtuvo un inventario y caracterización de las fuentes de datos, y un modelo de análisis y procesamiento de la información, que al ser aplicado genera una caracterización de una comunidad estudiantil.