bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, Perception and Practices on Rabies Disease in the GA East Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Vetsi Oscar , Gyamfi Eric , Sarfo-Twerefour Emmanuel Yaw
Published: March 2021

Background: Rabies is one of the neglected tropical zoonotic diseases caused by a virus. It belongs to the Rhabdoviridae [1]. It is a disease that is commonly found in animals but can easily effect human [2]. Where there are animal reservoirs, rabies is commonly spread. The general objective of this study to evaluate differences in knowledge, attitude and perception about rabies, among the residence in Ga East.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was used in this study using purposive sampling technique. Data was collected by interviewing study participants using OKD Collection and also STATA version14.2 was used for data analysis

Results: A total of 475 respondents were involved in the study with 354 (74.53%) males and 121(25.47%) as females. Of this, majority of the participants (93.47%) own a dog against 6.53% who did not own a dog. Dog is own in the community basically for security purposes (77.25%). Few own dog for leisure.  The study document less than 50% of the respondents [186 (39.16%)] resort to local drug stores drug store for first aid following a dog bit. Seeking veterinary attention (12.84%) and properly clearing of wound (8.84%) was not a common practice. Participants were of the opinion that tetanus vaccination should be done first (29.05%). Most of the participants have heard about rabies (96.42%) and showed various degree of knowledge on source of rabies, common animals associated with rabies, symptoms of rabies. Among some other practices, any identified rabid dog is killed as indicated by majority of the participants (52.63%). Most participants (71.58%) knew that rabies vaccination serves as preventive measures against rabies and further perceived all dogs must be vaccinated (38.32%). Of the total respondents, most (63.74%) never sent their dog for routine medical check-up nor vaccinated their dogs (70.95%).

Conclusion: The study revered that dog owners do not provide adequate care for their dogs. In addition to low coverage of dog vaccination and human anti rabies vaccination in the community which poses a greater threat to the lives community, the potential for increased spread of the diseases is high due to inadequate level of knowledge, poor perceptions, and attitudes towards rabies.
Impacts of Quarrying Activities on Human Health in Boki Area Cross River State Nigeria
Authors: Egesi N.
Published: March 2021

Field investigation, trace elements geochemistry, borehole and groundwater data were employed to determine the level of contamination or pollution of heavy and trace elements in abandoned quarrying, agricultural sites and its adjourning communities which are leads and other parts of Boki Local Government Area which have massive basement rocks as prospects for quarry establishment. This preliminary study on geosphere-biosphere becomes useful in medical geology as rock-soil-water-human interactions, and relationships are important and obvious. The mining pits depths range from 30.5 m to 50.0 m, while the boreholes depths is 41.0 m to 45.0 m and the thickness of regolith soil weathered Feralsols soil and less weathered Acrisols soil, varies from  22.0 m to 35.0 m in places. The Geochemical data obtained indicates Ba, Th, Ce, Zn, Zr are high in all rocks while Cr and Ni are generally low. In the water samples, some borehole values for the faecal pollution are high and indicates the water is contaminated, CaCO₃, Mg are high, while NO₂, F are low, when compared with established data from WHO standards, they indicates anomalies. The high Ba contents in a previous laboratory animals study shows it can cause nephropathy, but not carcinogenic or genotoxic. The identified boreholes water that are contaminated should be disinfected before use. For a sustainable quarry development in the area, there should be an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) with a clear baseline data, reclamation, remedial and rehabilitation procedures before abandonment at the end of the life of the quarries.
Seismic reinforcement of a linac installation
Authors: Szegedi Martin , Sarkar Vikren , Paxton Adam , Rassiah Prema , Salter Bill J.
Published: March 2021

The local building requirements to secure medical equipment in seismically active areas in the United States are based on recommendations of the American Society of Civil Engineers. In our institution we have recently acquired new linear accelerators, one of which had to be installed in an existing vault and one in a new vault. Since we are in a seismic active area, changes in the local code required us to start placing the new linacs seismically stable. Here, we describe the necessary steps taken to ensure a seismically sound installation of our linacs. For the linac installation to be seismically stable, the linac base frame has to be seismically fixed into the vault floor. The installation of a new linac into an existing vault requires verification of a structurally sound base frame. Knowledge of the previously applied fixation of such is needed and exploratory removal of grouted floor helped in the verification. Understanding the additional load requirements for the locality allows to account for the existing fixation and can potentially reduce the work needed to achieve seismic fixation requirements. For a prospective seismic installation the new linac base frame can be directly installed with the necessary strength. In addition the actual workflow is straight forward and vendor recommendations can be used. In both cases the vendor provided seismic calculations serve as baseline from which a facility should be work from. It is the facilities task to verify the correct installation of a linac in their specific location. An understanding of the seismic landscape can facilitate an appropriate installation at minimal additional cost.
Scaffold Fabrication Technologies and Structure/Function Properties in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Collins Maurice N. , Ren Guang , Young Kieran , Pina S. , Reis Rui L. , Oliveira J. Miguel
Published: March 2021

Bone tissue engineering (BTE) is a rapidly growing field aiming to create a biofunctional tissue that can integrate and degrade in vivo to treat diseased or damaged tissue. It has become evident that scaffold fabrication techniques are very important in dictating the final structural, mechanical properties, and biological response of the implanted biomaterials. A comprehensive review of the current accomplishments on scaffold fabrication techniques, their structure, and function properties for BTE is provided herein. Different types of biomaterials ranging from inorganic biomaterials to natural and synthetic polymers and related composites for scaffold processing are presented. Emergent scaffolding techniques such as electrospinning, freeze‐drying, bioprinting, and decellularization are also discussed. Strategies to improve vascularization potential and immunomodulation, which is considered a grand challenge in BTE scaffolding, are also presented.
Single Cell Trapping by Superhydrophobic/Superhydrophilic Microarrays
Authors: Raittinen Paavo , Elomaa Pinja , Saavalainen Päivi , Jokinen Ville
Published: March 2021

Single cell trapping is demonstrated on superhydrophobic–superhydrophilic patterned microarrays. Superhydrophilic spots that are twice the size of the cells to be trapped are found to be optimal for obtaining single cell trapping. The single cell trapping is based on size exclusivity instead of heavy dilution of the cell suspension and relying on Poisson statistics. The superhydrophobic areas of the array are found to be very resistant toward unwanted adhesion of the cells and thus cleaning steps are not needed after deposition. Based on these properties, 20 μm superhydrophilic spots are utilized for trapping two types of immune cells, primary peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and THP‐1 cells. The cells are trapped from a 10 μl cell suspension droplet dragged across the surface with different velocities. Single cell trapping efficiencies in the range of 10–30% are shown based on the cell type, the spot type, the seeding velocity and the cell suspension concentration.
MRI‐Compatible and Conformal Electrocorticography Grids for Translational Research
Authors: Fallegger Florian , Schiavone Giuseppe , Pirondini Elvira , Wagner Fabien B. , Vachicouras Nicolas , Serex Ludovic , Zegarek Gregory , May Adrien , Constanthin Paul , Palma Marie , Khoshnevis Mehrdad , Van Roost Dirk , Yvert Blaise , Courtine Grégoire , Schaller Karl , Bloch Jocelyne , Lacour Stéphanie P.
Published: March 2021

Intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG) captures neural information from the surface of the cerebral cortex during surgeries such as resections for intractable epilepsy and tumors. Current clinical ECoG grids come in evenly spaced, millimeter‐sized electrodes embedded in silicone rubber. Their mechanical rigidity and fixed electrode spatial resolution are common shortcomings reported by the surgical teams. Here, advances in soft neurotechnology are leveraged to manufacture conformable subdural, thin‐film ECoG grids, and evaluate their suitability for translational research. Soft grids with 0.2 to 10 mm electrode pitch and diameter are embedded in 150 µm silicone membranes. The soft grids are compatible with surgical handling and can be folded to safely interface hidden cerebral surface such as the Sylvian fold in human cadaveric models. It is found that the thin‐film conductor grids do not generate diagnostic‐impeding imaging artefacts (<1 mm) nor adverse local heating within a standard 3T clinical magnetic resonance imaging scanner. Next, the ability of the soft grids to record subdural neural activity in minipigs acutely and two weeks postimplantation is validated. Taken together, these results suggest a promising future alternative to current stiff electrodes and may enable the future adoption of soft ECoG grids in translational research and ultimately in clinical settings.
To Close or to Collapse: The Role of Charges on Membrane Stability upon Pore Formation
Authors: Lira Rafael B. , Leomil Fernanda S. C. , Melo Renan J. , Riske Karin A. , Dimova Rumiana
Published: March 2021

Resealing of membrane pores is crucial for cell survival. Membrane surface charge and medium composition are studied as defining regulators of membrane stability. Pores are generated by electric field or detergents. Giant vesicles composed of zwitterionic and negatively charged lipids mixed at varying ratios are subjected to a strong electric pulse. Interestingly, charged vesicles appear prone to catastrophic collapse transforming them into tubular structures. The spectrum of destabilization responses includes the generation of long‐living submicroscopic pores and partial vesicle bursting. The origin of these phenomena is related to the membrane edge tension, which governs pore closure. This edge tension significantly decreases as a function of the fraction of charged lipids. Destabilization of charged vesicles upon pore formation is universal—it is also observed with other poration stimuli. Disruption propensity is enhanced for membranes made of lipids with higher degree of unsaturation. It can be reversed by screening membrane charge in the presence of calcium ions. The observed findings in light of theories of stability and curvature generation are interpreted and mechanisms acting in cells to prevent total membrane collapse upon poration are discussed. Enhanced membrane stability is crucial for the success of electroporation‐based technologies for cancer treatment and gene transfer.
Targeted Repolarization of Tumor‐Associated Macrophages via Imidazoquinoline‐Linked Nanobodies
Authors: Bolli Evangelia , Scherger Maximilian , Arnouk Sana M. , Pombo Antunes Ana Rita , Straßburger David , Urschbach Moritz , Stickdorn Judith , De Vlaminck Karen , Movahedi Kiavash , Räder Hans Joachim , Hernot Sophie , Besenius Pol , Van Ginderachter Jo A. , Nuhn Lutz
Published: March 2021

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) promote the immune suppressive microenvironment inside tumors and are, therefore, considered as a promising target for the next generation of cancer immunotherapies. To repolarize their phenotype into a tumoricidal state, the Toll‐like receptor 7/8 agonist imidazoquinoline IMDQ is site‐specifically and quantitatively coupled to single chain antibody fragments, so‐called nanobodies, targeting the macrophage mannose receptor (MMR) on TAMs. Intravenous injection of these conjugates result in a tumor‐ and cell‐specific delivery of IMDQ into MMRhigh TAMs, causing a significant decline in tumor growth. This is accompanied by a repolarization of TAMs towards a pro‐inflammatory phenotype and an increase in anti‐tumor T cell responses. Therefore, the therapeutic benefit of such nanobody‐drug conjugates may pave the road towards effective macrophage re‐educating cancer immunotherapies.
Recent Developments in Organic Tandem Solar Cells toward High Efficiency
Authors: Ullah Fateh , Chen Chun-Chao , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: March 2021

The demands of sustainable energy sources and depletion of conventional energy sources have accelerated the quest for attaining nontoxic and low‐cost organic solar cells (OSCs). The intrinsic characteristics of organic semiconductor materials such as light weight, mechanical stability, tailorable bandgaps, and ease of solution processability on a large area with flexible devices provide new dimensions to the device engineers toward sustainable electronic technologies. The past two decades have witnessed an inspiring breakthrough of device efficiency by developing multijunction architectures. The significance of organic tandem solar cells (OTSCs) does not only elevate the efficiencies but also considerably reduces the absorption losses. Herein, the recent developments in OTSCs, starting from designing rules for OTSCs, followed by implementation of the interconnecting layer (ICL) structure, and issues regarding processing, light management, and engaging photoactive materials for constructing OTSCs, are comprehensively described. Finally, the conclusion and outlook for OTSCs are provided.
Water use and biomass yield of bioenergy crops in the North Carolina Piedmont
Authors: Stephenson Thomas D. , Carvalho Henrique D. R. , Castillo Miguel S. , Crozier Carl R. , Smyth Thomas J. , Heitman Joshua L.
Published: March 2021

Crops grown for bioenergy purposes are a potential alternative to traditional row crops and pasture–hay systems in the North Carolina (NC) Piedmont, but there is limited information available about their biomass yields and water requirements in this region. The goal of this study was to evaluate biomass yield and water‐use efficiency of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.), giant miscanthus (Miscanthus × giganteus Greef et Deu.), biomass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor spp.), silage corn (Zea mays L.) and tall fescue (Lolium arundinacea Schreb.). The perennial systems were established in 2012 while annuals were planted each spring. Crop water use was evaluated for the 2016 and 2017 growing seasons using a water balance approach. Giant miscanthus had the highest 2‐yr average biomass yield (29.1 ± 0.8 Mg ha–1) followed by corn (23.6 ± 0.6 Mg ha–1) and biomass sorghum (22.0 ± 1.8 Mg ha–1). Switchgrass and tall fescue had the lowest biomass yields, 14.2 ± 1.9 and 12.5 ± 1.2 Mg ha–1, respectively. Fescue had the highest season‐long water use in both years of the study. Perennial grasses giant miscanthus and switchgrass had similar seasonal water use, but giant miscanthus had higher water‐use efficiency due to greater biomass yields. The annual crops corn and sorghum used less water than the perennial systems because of their shorter growing season, and, consequently, had higher water‐use efficiencies. This information can aid growers when making management decisions about converting land into bioenergy crops.
Changes in leaf optical properties during tomato, common lamb's‐quarters, and redroot pigweed plant development
Authors: Ma Li , Upadhyaya Mahesh K
Published: March 2021

Leaf optical properties influence the red/far‐red light ratio (a signal of potential inter‐plant interaction) in plant canopies, which could alter inter‐plant interactions among species. Differences in leaf optical properties of species comprising a mixed population have significant implications for plant–plant interaction. Leaf optical properties at red (660 nm) and far‐red (730 nm) lights for the third true leaf of tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L.) and its two weeds common lamb's‐quarters (Chenopodium album L.) and redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus L.) were compared during plant development. The results showed that optical properties of the third true leaf at 660 and 730 nm changed with plant development in common lamb's‐quarters, redroot pigweed, and tomato, and the three species differed in this regard. Red/far‐red ratios of reflected (Rratio) and transmitted (Tratio) lights also changed with plant development in all species. Rratio and Tratio were greater in redroot pigweed compared to common lamb'squarters and tomato. These ratios significantly related with chlorophyll content and leaf mass per area. These differences, usually neglected, could influence growth and intra‐ and/or inter‐species interactions in plant communities comprising these species. These results provide valuable information for understanding eco‐physiology and function of vegetation cover and could help in development of effective weed management strategies.
Marginally reduced maternal hepatic and splenic ferroportin under severe nutritional iron deficiency in pregnancy maintains systemic iron supply
Authors: Mazgaj Rafał , Lipiński Paweł , Edison Eunice Sindhuvi , Bednarz Aleksandra , Staroń Robert , Haberkiewicz Olga , Lenartowicz Małgorzata , Smuda Ewa , Jończy Aneta , Starzyński Rafał R.
Published: March 2021

The demand for iron is high in pregnancy to meet the increased requirements for erythropoiesis. Even pregnant females with initially iron‐replete stores develop iron‐deficiency anemia, due to inadequate iron absorption. In anemic females, the maternal iron supply is dedicated to maintaining iron metabolism in the fetus and placenta. Here, using a mouse model of iron deficiency in pregnancy, we show that iron recycled from senescent erythrocytes becomes a predominant source of this microelement that can be transferred to the placenta in females with depleted iron stores. Ferroportin is a key protein in the molecular machinery of cellular iron egress. We demonstrate that under iron deficiency in pregnancy, levels of ferroportin are greatly reduced in the duodenum, placenta and fetal liver, but not in maternal liver macrophages and in the spleen. Although low expression of both maternal and fetal hepcidin predicted ferroportin up‐regulation in examined locations, its final expression level was very likely correlated with tissue iron status. Our results argue that iron released into the circulation of anemic females is taken up by the placenta, as evidenced by high expression of iron importers on syncytiotrophoblasts. Then, a substantial decrease in levels of ferroportin on the basolateral side of syncytiotrophoblasts, may be responsible for the reduced transfer of iron to the fetus. As attested by the lowest decrease in iron content among analyzed tissues, some part is retained in the placenta. These findings confirm the key role played by ferroportin in tuning iron turnover in iron‐deficient pregnant mouse females and their fetuses.
Congenital polyvalvular disease expands the cardiac phenotype of the RASopathies
Authors: Matalon Dena R. , Stevenson David A. , Bhoj Elizabeth J. , Santani Avni B. , Keena Beth , Cohen Meryl S. , Lin Angela E. , Sheppard Sarah E. , Zackai Elaine H.
Published: March 2021

The RASopathies are a group of similar genetic syndromes with cardiovascular abnormalities, characteristic facial features, short stature, abnormalities of the skin and musculoskeletal system, and variable neurodevelopmental challenges. The most common cardiovascular abnormalities include pulmonary valvular stenosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Congenital polyvalvular disease (CPVD) refers to congenital dysplasia of two or more cardiac valves. We diagnosed a RASopathy in two individuals with CPVD and noted that CPVD in RASopathies has rarely been reported in the literature. Thus, we performed a retrospective chart review and literature review to investigate the association and characterize the phenotype of CPVD in the RASopathies. CPVD was present in 2.5% (n = 6/243) of individuals in our RASopathy cohort. Involvement of two cardiac valves, commonly the aortic and pulmonic valves, was seen in the majority of individuals (6/8; 75%) in our cohort, but only 27% (3/11) of reported CPVD and RASopathy cases in the literature. CPVD should be considered an associated cardiovascular phenotype of the RASopathies, which has implications for diagnosis and management.
Theorising policy and practice in refugee education: Conceptualising ‘safety’, ‘belonging’, ‘success’ and ‘participatory parity’ in England and Sweden
Authors: McIntyre Joanna , Neuhaus Sinikka
Published: March 2021

Across the world, children are forced to leave their homes for far‐flung destinations. This global phenomenon has particular impact in Europe, where there are now more child refugees than since World War II. Education plays an important role for children with extraordinary experiences seeking to build meaningful lives in their new context. This article offers a new theoretical approach to underpin reforms to educational policy and practice for refugees in schools in resettlement contexts in Europe. The new conceptual framing is grounded in empirical work in England and Sweden, and brings two theories together: ‘participatory parity’ (Fraser) and ‘resumption of an ordinary life’ (Kohli). Kohli’s concepts of ‘safety’, ‘belonging’ and ‘success’ have resonance with practitioners from Sweden and England as they work to meet the needs of their new arrivals. Fraser’s conceptual lenses of redistribution, recognition and representation highlight the barriers to achieving the right to inclusive education for refugee children in each context. The interdependence of both theories shapes a new framework. The theoretical understandings offered in this article have been developed with practitioners and add to the field by offering a robust moral and operational approach to shaping pedagogical principles for policymakers and educators working in resettlement communities.
Contested childhoods across borders and boundaries: Insights from curriculum provisions in Northern Ireland and the Irish Free State in the 1920s
Authors: O’Toole Leah , McClelland Diane , Forde Deirdre , O'Keeffe Suzanne , Purdy Noel , Säfström Carl Anders , Walsh Thomas
Published: March 2021

Conceptualisations and constructs of children and childhood are temporally and contextually grounded. Historical documents are rich sources of insight and understanding regarding how children were understood, valued and treated at various times by particular societies. This article explores the conceptualisation of children and childhood in the 26‐county Irish Free State (South) and the 6‐county Northern Ireland (North) in the 1920s following the partition of Ireland, through the lens of educational documentation, primarily national primary school curricula. The focus on both jurisdictions is interesting in the context of partition, exploring the sometimes divergent and often convergent ways in which children were conceptualised across borders and boundaries. This article reveals, using Sorin and Galloway’s framework as a conceptual and analytical tool, that conceptualisations of children were broadly similar in the North and South but differed in their focus and enactment in both fledgling states. These disparities are largely attributable to the very different political, social and religious orientations of both jurisdictions and the use of education as a vehicle for nation‐building, as well as identity and gender formation. The article also explores alternative conceptualisations of children in education policy in the North and South by presenting case study ‘outliers’ of educational provision. A century since partition, conclusions and implications are noted that resonate with contemporary elements of convergence and divergence on educational policy and the conceptualisation of children across the island of Ireland.
Accurate error control in high‐dimensional association testing using conditional false discovery rates
Authors: Liley James , Wallace Chris
Published: March 2021

High‐dimensional hypothesis testing is ubiquitous in the biomedical sciences, and informative covariates may be employed to improve power. The conditional false discovery rate (cFDR) is a widely used approach suited to the setting where the covariate is a set of p‐values for the equivalent hypotheses for a second trait. Although related to the Benjamini–Hochberg procedure, it does not permit any easy control of type‐1 error rate and existing methods are over‐conservative. We propose a new method for type‐1 error rate control based on identifying mappings from the unit square to the unit interval defined by the estimated cFDR and splitting observations so that each map is independent of the observations it is used to test. We also propose an adjustment to the existing cFDR estimator which further improves power. We show by simulation that the new method more than doubles potential improvement in power over unconditional analyses compared to existing methods. We demonstrate our method on transcriptome‐wide association studies and show that the method can be used in an iterative way, enabling the use of multiple covariates successively. Our methods substantially improve the power and applicability of cFDR analysis.
Solid state diffusion and amalgamating anionic exchange at a KNaSO4 phosphors activated with Eu3+, Dy3+ and Sm3+ rare earth ions to enhance w‐LED performance
Authors: Duragkar Arati , Dhoble Nirupama S. , Kohale Ritesh L. , Dhoble Sanjay J.
Published: March 2021

In present work, KNa(SO4) phosphors doped with different concentrations of rare earth Eu3+, Sm3+ and Dy3+ ions (0.05, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1 mol%) were synthesized using a solid‐state diffusion technique. Photoluminescence (PL) investigations were carried out for the whole range of Eu3+, Sm3+ and Dy3+‐doped phosphors; rare earth ions that retained maximum PL intensity were selected for advanced anionic exchange. In the present investigation, phosphors KNa(SO4):Eu3+ (1 mol%), KNa(SO4):Dy3 + (0.5 mol%) and KNa(SO4):Sm3+ (0.3 mol%) had the highest PL intensity, and were therefore selected for further anionic substitution of sulphate anions with different concentrations of vanadate, phosphate, and tungstate anions, such as KNa(SO4)1‐x(MO4)x: W (where W = Eu3+ 1 mol%, Dy3+0.5 mol% and Sm3+ 0.3 mol%; MO4 = PO4, VO4, WO4; and x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 1). Structural and molecular environments of the substituted phosphors were characterized individually using X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In‐depth morphological investigations of the prepared phosphors were undertaken using scanning electron microscopy. For the principal investigation on enhancement of white light‐emitting diode (w‐LED) performance, the PL properties of all the synthesized phosphors were studied analytically. Emission intensity ratios for KNa(SO4):Eu3+ 1 mol%, KNa(SO4)0(PO4)1:Eu 1 mol%, KNa(SO4)0.9(VO4)1:Eu 1 mol%, and KNa(SO4)0.9(WO4)0.1:Eu 1 mol% were 1:1.15:1.23:0.08. PL intensity ratios for the phosphors KNaSO4:Dy 0.5 mol% and KNa(SO4)0.9(PO4)0.1:Dy 0.5 mol% was 1:2. The ratio of PL intensity was 1:3.2:0.8 for KNa(SO4):Sm 1 mol%, KNa(SO4)0.5(PO4)0.5:Sm 0.3 mol%, and KNa(SO4)0.7(VO4)0.3:Sm 0.3 mol% phosphors, respectively. Chromaticity investigations were carried out using Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage colour co‐ordinate diagrams, which suggested that the prepared Eu3+‐doped and Sm3+‐doped phosphors would be prospective candidates for red and green LEDs, respectively, whereas Dy3+‐doped phosphors showed emission in the blue and yellow regions. The entire study indicated that amalgamation of anionic exchange at a KNaSO4 phosphor activated with Eu3+, Dy3+ and Sm3+ rare earth ions could generate and enhance white light emission.
The effects of long‐term extracurricular scientific research on the medical students: Insight from Jinan University Medical School
Authors: Wang Guang , Ma Xin‐yue , Cheng Xin , Luo Chao‐hua , Wang Heng , Xu Xu , Lee Kenneth Ka Ho , Yang Xuesong
Published: March 2021

The benefits and long‐term effects of extracurricular scientific research on undergraduate students in many countries have been intensively investigated, but it remains obscure for Chinese medical students. In this study, we investigated the outcome of 60 medical students who have participated in extracurricular scientific research at Jinan University Medical School over a period of 7 years (2011–2018). The results revealed that these students have contributed to 31 biomedical science articles in reputable academic journals, as first‐ or co‐authors. Furthermore, they also independently procured various funding based on their research achievements, and smaller awards for achievements in conferences and competitions. Assessment of the grade point average score of these students revealed that conducting extracurricular scientific research did not affect their routine medical study and exam grades (P>0.05). The students benefited from participating in extracurricular research, by acquiring the ability to think scientifically and enhancing their communication skills. In addition, the medical students were motivated to enlist for postgraduate studies so that they could further embark in scientific research. In sum, Chinese medical students are capable of participating in scientific research and make a significant contribution to science.
Prognostic implication of right ventricular dysfunction and tricuspid regurgitation following transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Granot Yoav , Merdler Ilan , Finkelstein Ariel , Arbel Yaron , Banai Shmuel , Topilsky Yan , Scwartz Lorin Arie , Segev Amit , Barbash Israel , Fefer Paul , Danenberg Haim , Shuvy Mony , Perlman Gidon , Kornowski Ran , Shapira Yaron , Orvin Katia , Steinvil Arie
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) are associated with adverse outcomes in severe aortic stenosis (AS) patients. Our aim was to evaluate the association between ≥moderate TR and RV dysfunction on long‐term mortality following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the Israeli multicenter TAVR registry among 4,344 consecutive patients, with all‐cause mortality as the main outcome measure.

Results

Echocardiographic assessment of TR grade and RV dysfunction was available for 3,733 and 1,850 patients, of whom ≥moderate TR and RV dysfunction was noted for 478(13%) and 78(4%), respectively. The mean follow‐up time was 2.9 ± 2.3 years. In univariate models, ≥Moderate TR and ≥moderate RV dysfunction were associated with increased long‐term mortality (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.24–1.69, p < .001 and HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.21–2.47, p = 0.003, respectively). These finding did not remained significant after adjusting to echocardiographic parameters. A subset of patients with no improvement in RV function had the highest long‐term mortality risk (HR 3.3, 95% CI 1.95–5.7, p < .001).

Conclusion

When adjusted to multiple echocardiographic characteristics baseline ≥Moderate TR and ≥moderate RV dysfunction were not associated with long‐term mortality following TAVR. Persistent RV dysfunction following TAVR was associated with the highest risk for mortality.
Nasal‐alar invasive cutaneous aspergillosis in a patient with anaplastic astrocytoma: A case report
Authors: Aljariri Adham A. , Shaikh Ahmed , Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Petkar Mahir A. , Ganesan Shanmugam
Published: March 2021

Invasive aspergillosis is commonly encountered in immunosuppressed patients either primarily through direct inoculation or secondary from blood dissemination. This report describes a case of 53 years old immunocompromised female patient who was diagnosed with frontotemporal anaplastic astrocytoma and developed nasal skin lesion turned to be invasive cutaneous aspergillosis.
Pulvermischer für Seifensieder
Authors: Hilleke Ludger
Published: March 2021

Die Produktionskette für metallische Seifen ist hochgradig komplex und sehr individuell von firmentypischen Prozessphilosophien geprägt. Dabei ist der Prozessschritt „Pulvermischen“ an mehreren Stellen von Bedeutung, wie der Mischtechnik‐Spezialist Stefan
Die Öko Design Richtlinie: für ein grünes Europa
Authors: Stoffel Thorsten
Published: March 2021

Im Juli 2021 wird es eine Veränderung der energetischen Bewertung von Luftfiltern in neuen Lüftungsanlagen geben. Grundlage für diese neue Bewertung ist die europäische Energieeinsparverordnung, kurz EnEV. In diesem Artikel geht der Autor auf die neue Bew
Konsistenzmessung
Authors: Pföhler Nicolas
Published: March 2021

Beim Betonmischen muss die Konsistenz konstant bleiben und man will einfach Aussagen über die Wirkung von Zusatzstoffen gewinnen. Für Beides hat Eirich passende Lösungen.
Wertschöpfung beim Warennachschub
Authors: Homburg Claudia
Published: March 2021

In der Warenwirtschaft müssen Betriebsabläufe immer genauer geplant werden. Da ist der richtige Zeitpunkt für eine Zu‐ oder Ablieferung im wahrsten Sinne des Wortes Gold wert. Mit dem autarken Radar‐Füllstandsensor Vegapuls Air besteht nicht nur jederzeit
Methoden der Differenzdruckmessung
Authors: Krause Peter
Published: March 2021

Unter den möglichen Verfahren zur überwachung des Filtrationsprozesses ist die Messung des Differenzdruckes die üblichste Variante. Hier existieren mehrere Verfahren, die von der visuellen Kontrolle über Manometer, die Weiterleitung eines analogen Signals
Ölige Kampfmittel
Authors: Tetsch Larissa
Published: March 2021

Minzpflanzen halten sich lästige Konkurrenten vom Hals, indem sie deren Wachstum hemmen. Vermittelt wird diese Wirkung über flüchtige Inhaltsstoffe im Minzöl. Einer davon ist das Monoterpen Menthon, das Bestandteile des Zytoskeletts zerstört und so verhindert, dass sich die betroffenen Zellen vermehren können.
Perturbation‐based null hypothesis tests with an application to Clayton models
Authors: Shu Di , He Wenqing
Published: March 2021

Null hypothesis tests are popularly used when there is no appropriate alternative hypothesis available, especially in model assessment, where the assumed model is evaluated with no model being considered an alternative. Motivated by a test for Clayton models in multivariate survival analysis, we propose a perturbation‐based method for null hypothesis testing that makes use of the resampling approach in Jin et al. (Jin et al., Biometrika; 2001; 88, 381–390) to estimate the variance–covariance matrix of an estimator to avoid intractable variance estimation. The proposed tests are straightforward and theoretically justified. We apply the proposed method to modify the tests in Shih (Shih, Biometrika; 1998; 85, 189–200) for the assessment of Clayton models. The proposed tests present satisfactory performance in simulation studies. A colon cancer dataset further illustrates the proposed tests.
Standardized Stirring for Small Scale Surveys**
Authors: Omari Isaac , Paul Mathias , McIndoe J. Scott
Published: March 2021

Stirring rates in heterogeneous catalytic reactions have an effect on reaction rates. When conducting small‐scale surveys using a single central stir plate, reaction vessels in different positions experience slightly different levels and patterns of agitation. We probed this effect by running the same reaction 40 times, varying the stir rate (fast/slow) and the vial position using two 3D‐printed vial holders. We found variability of conversion (measured mass spectrometrically) to be approximately two times higher for vials placed somewhat randomly in comparison to when vials are consistently placed at a fixed distance from the centre of the stir plate, but the effect was relatively small and could be minimized by using a high stir rate. For those experimenters wishing to completely eliminate differential stirring as a cause for variation in results, the 3D‐printed circular array we designed is recommended over a conventional rectangular array.
Ocular dominance columns in V1 are more susceptible than associated callosal patches to imbalance of eye input during precritical and critical periods
Authors: Olavarria Jaime F. , Laing Robyn J. , Andelin Adrian K.
Published: March 2021

In Long Evans rats, ocular dominance columns (ODCs) in V1 overlap with patches of callosal connections. Using anatomical tracers, we found that ODCs and callosal patches are present at postnatal day 10 (P10), several days before eye opening, and about 10 days before the activation of the critical period for ocular dominance plasticity (~P20). In rats monocularly enucleated at P10 and perfused ~P20, ODCs ipsilateral to the remaining eye desegregated, indicating that rat ODCs are highly susceptible to monocular enucleation during a precritical period. Monocular enucleation during the critical period exerted significant, although smaller, effects. Monocular eye lid suture during the critical period led to a significant expansion of the ipsilateral projection from the nondeprived eye, whereas the contralateral projection invaded into, and intermixed with, ipsilateral ODCs innervated by the deprived eye. We propose that this intermixing allows callosal connections to contribute to the effects of monocular deprivation assessed in the hemisphere ipsilateral to the nondeprived eye. The ipsilateral and contralateral projections from the deprived eye did not undergo significant shrinkage. In contrast, we found that callosal patches are less susceptible to imbalance of eye input. In rats monocularly enucleated during either the precritical or critical periods, callosal patches were maintained in the hemisphere ipsilateral to the remaining eye, but desegregated in the hemisphere ipsilateral to the enucleated orbit. Callosal patches were maintained in rats binocularly enucleated at P10 or later. Similarly, monocular deprivation during the critical period had no significant effect on callosal patches in either hemisphere.
Ab initio Molecular Dynamics Investigations of the Speciation and Reactivity of Deep Eutectic Electrolytes in Aluminum Batteries
Authors: Carrasco‐Busturia David , Lysgaard Steen , Jankowski Piotr , Vegge Tejs , Bhowmik Arghya , García‐Lastra Juan María
Published: March 2021

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have emerged as an alternative for conventional ionic liquids in aluminum batteries. Elucidating DESs composition is fundamental to understand aluminum electrodeposition in the battery anode. Despite numerous experimental efforts, the speciation of these DESs remains elusive. This work shows how ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations can shed light on the molecular composition of DESs. For the particular example of AlCl3:urea, one of the most popular DESs, we carried out a systematic AIMD study, showing how an excess of AlCl3 in the AlCl3:urea mixture promotes the stability of ionic species vs neutral ones and also favors the reactivity in the system. These two facts explain the experimentally observed enhanced electrochemical activity in salt‐rich DESs. We also observe the transfer of simple [AlClx(urea)y] clusters between different species in the liquid, giving rise to free [AlCl4]− units. The small size of these [AlCl4]− units favors the transport of ionic species towards the anode, facilitating the electrodeposition of aluminum.
VPS4B deficiency causes early embryonic lethality and induces signal transduction disorders of cell endocytosis
Authors: Chen Danna , He Fei , Lu Ting , Huang Jin , Li Meiyi , Cai Decheng , Huang Cheng , Chen Dong , Xiong Fu
Published: March 2021

VPS4B (vacuolar protein sorting 4B), a member of the ATPase associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA) protein family, is a component of the endosomal sorting complexes required for transport machinery which regulates the internalization and lysosomal degradation of membrane proteins. We previously reported that VPS4B is one of the pathogenic genes related to dentin dysplasia type I, although its function was largely unknown. To investigate the role of VPS4B in tooth development, we deleted the Vps4b gene in mice. We found that heterozygous knockout mice (Vps4b+/−) developed normally and were fertile. However, homozygous deletion of the Vps4b gene resulted in early embryonic lethality of Vps4b−/− mice at approximately embryonic day 9.5 (E9.5). To investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms, we examined the molecular functions of VPS4B in vivo and in vitro. Cell experiments showed that VPS4B influenced the proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle of transfected human neuroblastoma cells (IMR‐32 cells) with over‐expression or knockdown of VPS4B. Moreover, qRT‐PCR detection showed that the mRNA expression levels of apoptosis‐, cell cycle‐, and endocytosis‐related genes was significantly down or up‐regulated in RNA interference‐mediated knockdown of VPS4B in IMR‐32 cells and Vps4b+/− E12.5 embryos. We accordingly speculated that signal transduction disorders of cell endocytosis are a contributing factor to the prenatal lethality of Vps4b−/− mice.
Governing AI‐Driven Health Research: Are IRBs Up to the Task?
Authors: Friesen Phoebe , Douglas‐Jones Rachel , Marks Mason , Pierce Robin , Fletcher Katherine , Mishra Abhishek , Lorimer Jessica , Véliz Carissa , Hallowell Nina , Graham Mackenzie , Chan Mei Sum , Davies Huw , Sallamuddin Taj
Published: March 2021

Many are calling for concrete mechanisms of oversight for health research involving artificial intelligence (AI). In response, institutional review boards (IRBs) are being turned to as a familiar model of governance. Here, we examine the IRB model as a form of ethics oversight for health research that uses AI. We consider the model's origins, analyze the challenges IRBs are facing in the contexts of both industry and academia, and offer concrete recommendations for how these committees might be adapted in order to provide an effective mechanism of oversight for health‐related AI research.
The thermal impacts of beach nourishment across a regionally important loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) rookery
Authors: Shamblott Kaitlynn M. , Reneker Jaymie L. , Kamel Stephanie J.
Published: March 2021

Beach nourishment is a common coastal management practice used to protect and maintain infrastructure, tourist revenue, and sandy beach habitats. Coastal erosion and increased development along the coast of North Carolina, USA, have resulted in increased use of beach nourishment as an environmentally friendly alternative to hard structures, such as groins and jetties. Despite its advantages, beach nourishment can alter the thermal properties of a beach, potentially impacting the incubation environment of species that utilize this habitat during reproduction. Importantly, in organisms with temperature‐dependent sex determination, the incubation environment plays a key role in determining offspring sex ratios, hatchling survival, and fitness. Here we investigate how beach nourishment influences thermal properties and sand characteristics of eight beaches in the high‐density loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) nesting region of North Carolina. We find that, despite considerable spatial and temporal variation, nourishment is a significant predictor of mean monthly sand temperatures in both univariate and multivariable predictive models. Across a season, nourished beach sections are, on average, 0.4°C (range 0.3–0.8°C) warmer than their unnourished counterparts. Nourishment is also a significant predictor of the mean and variance of sand grain size. Furthermore, variation in mean grain size, the relative percent of small, medium and large grain sizes and albedo are mainly responsible for differences in mean monthly sand temperatures. As such, the coarser and darker sand often used in nourishment projects may exacerbate climate driven increases in surface temperature.
Ribbed mussel Geukensia demissa population response to living shoreline design and ecosystem development
Authors: Bilkovic Donna Marie , Isdell Robert E. , Guthrie Amanda G. , Mitchell Molly M. , Chambers Randolph M.
Published: March 2021

Coastal communities increasingly invest in natural and nature‐based features (e.g., living shorelines) as a strategy to protect shorelines and enhance coastal resilience. Tidal marshes are a common component of these strategies because of their capacity to reduce wave energy and storm surge impacts. Performance metrics of restoration success for living shorelines tend to focus on how the physical structure of the created marsh enhances shoreline protection via proper elevation and marsh plant presence. These metrics do not fully evaluate the level of marsh ecosystem development. In particular, the presence of key marsh bivalve species can indicate the capability of the marsh to provide non‐protective services of value, such as water quality improvement and habitat provision. We observed an unexpected low to no abundance of the filter‐feeding ribbed mussel, Geukensia demissa, in living shoreline marshes throughout Chesapeake Bay. In salt marsh ecosystems along the Atlantic Coast of the United States, ribbed mussels improve water quality, enhance nutrient removal, stabilize the marsh, and facilitate long‐term sustainability of the habitat. Through comparative field surveys and experiments within a chronosequence of 13 living shorelines spanning 2–16 years since construction, we examined three factors we hypothesized may influence recruitment of ribbed mussels to living shoreline marshes: (1) larval access to suitable marsh habitat, (2) sediment quality of low marsh (i.e., potential mussel habitat), and (3) availability of high‐quality refuge habitat. Our findings suggest that at most sites larval mussels are able to access and settle on living shoreline created marshes behind rock sill structures, but that most recruits are likely not surviving. Sediment organic matter (OM) and plant density were correlated with mussel abundance, and sediment OM increased with marsh age, suggesting that living shoreline design (e.g., sand fill, planting grids) and lags in ecosystem development (sediment properties) are reducing the survival of the young recruits. We offer potential modifications to living shoreline design and implementation practices that may facilitate self‐sustaining ribbed mussel populations in these restored habitats.