bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greedy sensor selection based on QR factorization
Authors: Kim Yoon Hak
Published: December 2021

We address the problem of selecting a given number of sensor nodes in wireless sensor networks where noise-corrupted linear measurements are collected at the selected nodes to estimate the unknown parameter. Noting that this problem is combinatorial in nature and selection of sensor nodes from a large number of nodes would require unfeasible computational cost, we propose a greedy sensor selection method that seeks to choose one node at each iteration until the desired number of sensor nodes are selected. We first apply the QR factorization to make the mean squared error (MSE) of estimation a simplified metric which is iteratively minimized. We present a simple criterion which enables selection of the next sensor node minimizing the MSE at iterations. We discuss that a near-optimality of the proposed method is guaranteed by using the approximate supermodularity and also make a complexity analysis for the proposed algorithm in comparison with different greedy selection methods, showing a reasonable complexity of the proposed method. We finally run extensive experiments to investigate the estimation performance of the different selection methods in various situations and demonstrate that the proposed algorithm provides a good estimation accuracy with a competitive complexity when compared with the other novel greedy methods.
Mobility-aware personalized service recommendation in mobile edge computing
Authors: Zhang Hongxia , Dong Yanhui , Yang Yongjin
Published: December 2021

With the proliferation of smartphones and an increasing number of services provisioned by clouds, mobile edge computing (MEC) is emerging as a complementary technology of cloud computing. It could provide cloud resources and services by local mobile edge servers, which are normally nearby users. However, a significant challenge is aroused in MEC because of the mobility of users. User trajectory prediction technologies could be used to cope with this issue, which has already played important roles in service recommendation systems with MEC. Unfortunately, little attention and work have been given in service recommendation systems considering users mobility. Thus, in this paper, we propose a mobility-aware personalized service recommendation (MPSR) approach based on user trajectory and quality of service (QoS) predictions. In the proposed method, users trajectory is firstly discovered by a hybrid long-short memory network. Then, given users trajectories, service QoS is predicted, considering the similarity of different users and different edge servers. Finally, services are recommended by a center trajectory strategy through MPSR. Experimental results on a real dataset show that our proposed approach can outperform the traditional recommendation approaches in terms of accuracy in mobile edge computing.
Fractional N-Laplacian boundary value problems with jumping nonlinearities in the fractional Orlicz–Sobolev spaces
Authors: Choi Q-Heung , Jung Tacksun
Published: December 2021

We investigate the multiplicity of solutions for problems involving the fractional N-Laplacian. We obtain three theorems depending on the source terms in which the nonlinearities cross some eigenvalues. We obtain these results by direct computations with the eigenvalues and the corresponding eigenfunctions for the fractional N-Laplacian eigenvalue problem in the fractional Orlicz–Sobolev spaces, the contraction mapping principle on the fractional Orlicz–Sobolev spaces and Leray–Schauder degree theory.
On initial inverse problem for nonlinear couple heat with Kirchhoff type
Authors: Nam Danh Hua Quoc
Published: December 2021

The main objective of the paper is to study the final model for the Kirchhoff-type parabolic system. Such type problems have many applications in physical and biological phenomena. Under some smoothness of the final Cauchy data, we prove that the problem has a unique mild solution. The main tool is Banach’s fixed point theorem. We also consider the non-well-posed problem in the Hadamard sense. Finally, we apply truncation method to regularize our problem. The paper is motivated by the work of Tuan, Nam, and Nhat [Comput. Math. Appl. 77(1):15–33, 2019].
Lacunary statistical boundedness on time scales
Authors: Sözbir Bayram , Altundağ Selma
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we introduce the concept of lacunary statistical boundedness of Δ-measurable real-valued functions on an arbitrary time scale. We also give the relations between statistical boundedness and lacunary statistical boundedness on time scales.
Oscillation criteria of third-order neutral differential equations with damping and distributed deviating arguments
Authors: Wang Yakun , Meng Fanwei , Gu Juan
Published: December 2021

Our objective in this paper is to study the oscillatory and asymptotic behavior of the solutions of third-order neutral differential equations with damping and distributed deviating arguments. New oscillation criteria are established, which are based on a refinement generalized Riccati transformation. An important tool for this investigation is the integral averaging technique. Moreover, we provide an example to illustrate the main results.
Does anthropogenic introduction of guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) impact faunal species diversity and abundance in natural aquatic habitats? A systematic review protocol
Authors: Sasanami Misaki , Hustedt John , Alexander Neal , Horstick Olaf , Bowman Leigh , Hii Jeffrey , Echaubard Pierre , Braack Leo , Overgaard Hans J.
Published: December 2021

Background

The guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) is a tropical fish ancestrally linked to northern South America and the Caribbean. It is known to be very tolerant of and adaptable to new environments, and able to consume multiple food sources, including mosquito larvae. Consequently, guppies have been frequently introduced to non-native ecosystems to control mosquito populations, resulting in near-global distribution. Indeed, due to the increasing need for mosquito-borne disease control, guppy releases will likely continue, however there are concerns about potential adverse impacts on other species, biodiversity, and certain ecosystem functions. The most significant of these is local species extinction, and by extension, reduced biodiversity. Yet, the extent of these impacts has not been evaluated by scientific review. Accordingly, this study will examine and evaluate whether anthropogenic introduction of guppy fish (Poecilia reticulata) has impacts on faunal species diversity and abundance in natural aquatic habitats. The results of this review may have implications for environmental management and policy and inform ecosystem-based integrated vector management and public health policy.

Methods

Relevant scientific articles will be identified by searching electronic databases. Articles will be included if they report changes or differences, associated with guppy fish introduction, in at least one of these population parameters: (1) abundance of individuals in any species, (2) total abundance of individuals in all species present, (3) species richness, (4) species diversity, and (5) community evenness. Each article will be assessed by at least two independent reviewers against pre-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Snowballing reference lists of included articles will be conducted. At least two reviewers will critically appraise all included studies using the Collaboration for Environmental Evidence Critical Appraisal Tool (CEECAT) and any discrepancies will be resolved by discussion between the two or adjudication by a third author if agreement is not reached. Each study will also be subjected to data extraction against pre-defined qualitative and quantitative outcomes and results will be tabulated/presented in figures where appropriate. A meta-analysis will be carried out on outcome parameters with sufficient evidence.
An autopsy case of unexpected death due to Addison’s disease caused by adrenal tuberculosis
Authors: Zhao Nan , Gao Yutong , Ni Chunsheng , Zhang Danfang , Zhao Xiulan , Li Yanlei , Sun Baocun
Published: December 2021

Background

Adrenal tuberculosis is difficult to diagnose due to non-specific symptom. Unexpected death due to adrenal insufficiency after trauma surgery is rare.

Case presentation

A 45-year-old man, who was admitted to hospital because of trauma to the right hand, died unexpectedly on the 13th day after replantation of amputated fingers. He was diagnosed with brain edema and diluted hyponatremia. Autopsy and histopathologic examination revealed severe brain edema combined with cerebellar tonsillar hernia, extensive destruction of adrenal gland caused by bilateral adrenal tuberculosis and right lung invasive pulmonary tuberculosis.

Conclusions

Trauma and pulmonary tuberculosis complicated with adrenal tuberculosis induced the adrenal crisis, which eventually lead to severe cerebral edema and hernia, and finally death from respiratory and circulatory failure. This autopsy and histopathologic examination suggested a possible pathophysiologic mechanism of sudden death due to diluted hyponatremia after trauma surgery.
Experiences of eating disorders from the perspectives of patients, family members and health care professionals: a meta-review of qualitative evidence syntheses
Authors: Gustafsson Sanna Aila , Stenström Karin , Olofsson Hanna , Pettersson Agneta , Wilbe Ramsay Karin
Published: December 2021

Background

Eating disorders are serious conditions that cause major suffering for patients and their families. Better knowledge about perceptions of eating disorders and their treatment, and which factors that facilitate or hinder recovery, is desired in order to develop the clinical work. We aimed to explore and synthesise experiences of eating disorders from the perspectives of those suffering from an eating disorder, their family members and health care professionals through an overarching meta-review of systematic reviews in the field.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in the databases PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus, and CINAHL. Inclusion criteria were systematic reviews of qualitative research on experiences, perceptions, needs, or desires related to eating disorders from the perspective of patients, family members or health care professionals. Systematic reviews that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were assessed for relevance and methodological limitations by at least two researchers independently. The key findings were analysed and synthesised into themes.

Results

We identified 17 systematic reviews that met our inclusion criteria. Of these, 13 reviews reported on the patients’ perspective, five on the family members’ perspective, and three on the health care professionals’ perspective. The study population in the reviews was predominantly girls and young women with anorexia nervosa, whilst systematic reviews focusing on other eating disorders were scarce. The findings regarding each of the three perspectives resulted in themes that could be synthesised into three overarching themes: 1) being in control or being controlled, 2) balancing physical recovery and psychological needs, and 3) trusting relationships.

Conclusions

There were several similarities between the views of patients, family members and health care professionals, especially regarding the significance of building trustful therapeutic alliances that also included family members. However, the informants sometimes differed in their views, particularly on the use of the biomedical model, which was seen as helpful by health care professionals, while patients and family members felt that it failed to address their psychological distress. Acknowledging these differences is important for the understanding of anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders, and may help clinicians to broaden treatment approaches to meet the expectations of patients and family members.
Widening the reach of family-based interventions for Anorexia Nervosa: autism-adaptations for children and adolescents
Authors: Loomes Rachel , Bryant-Waugh Rachel
Published: December 2021

Family-based interventions are widely recommended as a first line treatment for children and young people with Anorexia Nervosa. There is clear evidence that model-adherent delivery of specific eating disorder focused family interventions has the potential to help adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa, who have typically engaged in extreme dietary restriction and lost a significant amount of weight over a relatively short period of time. Nevertheless, there remains a significant number of young people with restrictive eating disorders for whom family-based interventions for Anorexia Nervosa prove less effective, suggesting adaptations may be indicated for some. In this paper we provide a rationale and structure for considering a number of possible adaptations to the delivery of family-based therapy for anorexia nervosa specifically intended to enhance its relevance and potential effectiveness for children and adolescents on the autism spectrum; a subgroup known to represent a significant minority in eating disorder populations who have been identified as having relatively poor outcomes.

Plain English summary

Past research has shown that certain family-based treatments are effective for many children and adolescents who develop Anorexia Nervosa. At the same time this type of treatment approach in its current form does not work for everyone. Recent research has highlighted the overlap between anorexia and autism and the need for the development of adaptations to existing treatments to better meet the requirements of people on the autism spectrum who develop anorexia. With this in mind we propose a number of autism-related adaptations that could be made to family-based treatments for anorexia. We hope that these might be formally tested in the future to see if these adaptations improve outcomes for this group of individuals.
Machine learning modeling of genome-wide copy number alteration signatures reliably predicts IDH mutational status in adult diffuse glioma
Authors: Nuechterlein Nicholas , Shapiro Linda G. , Holland Eric C. , Cimino Patrick J.
Published: December 2021

Knowledge of 1p/19q-codeletion andIDH1/2mutational status is necessary to interpret any investigational study of diffuse gliomas in the modern era. While DNA sequencing is the gold standard for determining IDH mutational status, genome-wide methylation arrays and gene expression profiling have been used for surrogate mutational determination. Previous studies by our group suggest that 1p/19q-codeletion and IDH mutational status can be predicted by genome-wide somatic copy number alteration (SCNA) data alone, however a rigorous model to accomplish this task has yet to be established. In this study, we used SCNA data from 786 adult diffuse gliomas in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to develop a two-stage classification system that identifies 1p/19q-codeleted oligodendrogliomas and predicts the IDH mutational status of astrocytic tumors using a machine-learning model. Cross-validated results on TCGA SCNA data showed near perfect classification results. Furthermore, our astrocytic IDH mutation model validated well on four additional datasets (AUC = 0.97, AUC = 0.99, AUC = 0.95, AUC = 0.96) as did our 1p/19q-codeleted oligodendroglioma screen on the two datasets that contained oligodendrogliomas (MCC = 0.97, MCC = 0.97). We then retrained our system using data from these validation sets and applied our system to a cohort of REMBRANDT study subjects for whom SCNA data, but not IDH mutational status, is available. Overall, using genome-wide SCNAs, we successfully developed a system to robustly predict 1p/19q-codeletion and IDH mutational status in diffuse gliomas. This system can assign molecular subtype labels to tumor samples of retrospective diffuse glioma cohorts that lack 1p/19q-codeletion and IDH mutational status, such as the REMBRANDT study, recasting these datasets as validation cohorts for diffuse glioma research.
Elucidating the degradation pattern of a new cold-tolerant pectate lyase used for efficient preparation of pectin oligosaccharides
Authors: Zheng Ling , Guo Zilong , Cao Shengsheng , Zhu Benwei
Published: December 2021

The cold-active pectate lyases have drawn increasing attention in food and biotechnological applications due to their ability to retain high catalytic efficiency under lower temperatures, which could be helpful for energy saving, cost reduction and flavor preservation. Herein, a new cold-tolerant pectate lyase (ErPelPL1) gene from Echinicola rosea was cloned and heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli. Interestingly, ErPelPL1 retained high catalytic activity even at a low temperature (4 °C). ErPelPL1 exhibited optimal activity at 35 ℃, pH 8.0 with 1 mM of Ca2+. It showed high specific activity towards polygalacturonic acid (34.7 U/mg) and sodium polygalacturonate (59.3 U/mg). The combined thin-layer chromatography (TLC), fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) results indicated that ErPelPL1 endolytically degraded pectic substances into the oligosaccharides with degrees of depolymerization (Dps) of 1–6. In conclusion, this study mainly conducted biochemical characterization and product analysis of a cold-tolerant pectate lyase. Therefore, it provides a promising enzyme candidate for food and biotechnological applications.

Graphical Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging-based radiomics signature for preoperative prediction of Ki67 expression in bladder cancer
Authors: Zheng Zongtai , Gu Zhuoran , Xu Feijia , Maskey Niraj , He Yanyan , Yan Yang , Xu Tianyuan , Liu Shenghua , Yao Xudong
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The Ki67 expression is associated with the advanced clinicopathological features and poor prognosis in bladder cancer (BCa). We aimed to develop and validate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based radiomics signatures to preoperatively predict the Ki67 expression status in BCa.

Methods and materials

We retrospectively collected 179 BCa patients with Ki67 expression and preoperative MRI. Radiomics features were extracted from T2-weighted (T2WI) and dynamic contrast-enhancement (DCE) images. The synthetic minority over-sampling technique (SMOTE) was used to balance the minority group (low Ki67 expression group) in the training set. Minimum redundancy maximum relevance was used to identify the best features associated with Ki67 expression. Support vector machine and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator algorithms (LASSO) were used to construct radiomics signatures in training and SMOTE-training sets, and diagnostic performance was assessed by the area under the curve (AUC) and accuracy. The decision curve analyses (DCA) and calibration curve and were used to investigate the clinical usefulness and calibration of radiomics signatures, respectively. The Kaplan-Meier test was performed to investigate the prognostic value of radiomics-predicted Ki67 expression status.

Results

1218 radiomics features were extracted from T2WI and DCE images, respectively. The SMOTE-LASSO model based on nine features achieved the best predictive performance in the SMOTE-training (AUC, 0.859; accuracy, 80.3%) and validation sets (AUC, 0.819; accuracy, 81.5%) with a good calibration performance and clinical usefulness. Immunohistochemistry-based high Ki67 expression and radiomics-predicted high Ki67 expression based on the SMOTE-LASSO model were significantly associated with poor disease-free survival in training and validation sets (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The SMOTE-LASSO model could predict the Ki67 expression status and was associated with survival outcomes of the BCa patients, thereby may aid in clinical decision-making.
Mechanical characteristics of bacterial cellulose-reinforced mycelium composite materials
Authors: Elsacker Elise , Vandelook Simon , Damsin Bastien , Van Wylick Aurélie , Peeters Eveline , De Laet Lars
Published: December 2021

Background

While mycelium is considered a promising alternative for fossil-based resins in lignocellulosic materials, the mechanical properties of mycelium composite materials remain suboptimal, among other reasons due to the weak internal bonds between the hyphae and the natural fibres. A solution could be provided by the hybridisation of mycelium materials with organic additives. More specifically, bacterial cellulose seems to be a promising additive that could result in reinforcing mycelium composites; however, this strategy is underreported in scientific literature.

Results

In this study, we set out to investigate the mechanical properties of mycelium composites, produced with the white-rot fungus Trametes versicolor, and supplemented with bacterial cellulose as an organic additive. A methodological framework is developed for the facile production of bacterial cellulose and subsequent fabrication of mycelium composite particle boards based on a hybrid substrate consisting of bacterial cellulose and hemp in combination with a heat-pressing approach. We found that, upon adding bacterial cellulose, the internal bond of the composite particle boards significantly improved.

Conclusions

The addition of bacterial cellulose to mycelium composite materials not only results in a strengthening of internal bonding of mycelium material, but also renders tuneable mechanical properties to the material. As such, this study contributes to the ongoing development of fully biological hybrid materials with performant mechanical characteristics.
Analysing the determinants of Italian university student mobility pathways
Authors: Columbu Silvia , Porcu Mariano , Primerano Ilaria , Sulis Isabella , Vitale Maria Prosperina
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we study the mobility choices of Italian students in their transition from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree level with an added emphasis on their overall mobility pathways. We consider individual data from the Italian National Student Archive on two cohorts of students who were enrolled in the academic years 2011–2012 and 2014–2015. We followed both cohorts in Italian universities for six academic years. This allowed us to depict five different profiles of students, categorise them as stayers vs. movers, and work at two different levels. Logit models were then adopted to study the probability to be in mobility at a master’s level, given that a student had been a stayer at bachelor’s degree, and to assess the effect of the field of study. Apart from individual characteristics, network centrality measures were encompassed in the model to assess the university attractiveness in influencing mobility choices.
Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2: a human enhancement story
Authors: Döbler Niklas Alexander , Carbon Claus-Christian
Published: December 2021

Background

Vaccination is an essential strategy for mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides its significance as a public health measure, vaccination is a sophisticated example of modern biotechnology. Since vaccination gives the human body an ability that it does not naturally possess, the question arises as to its classification as Human Enhancement.

Main Body

Exemplified on a selection of different definitions, we conclude that vaccinations may indeed be classified and treated as a form of Human Enhancement. This raises some ethical issues that are notorious in the broad field of Human Enhancement. A study withN= 67 participants revealed that vaccinations are perceived neither as a clear nor poor example of Human Enhancement.

Conclusion

 We argue that qualifying vaccination technology as Human Enhancement does not provide convincing arguments to reject vaccination. By examining the Human Enhancement debate and the similarities to the issue of vaccination shown here, policymakers can learn valuable lessons regarding mass vaccination programs’ current and future handling.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Major environmental factors and traits of invasive alien plants determining their spatial distribution
Authors: Oh Minwoo , Heo Yoonjeong , Lee Eun Ju , Lee Hyohyemi
Published: December 2021

Background

As trade increases, the influx of various alien species and their spread to new regions are prevalent and no longer a special problem. Anthropogenic activities and climate changes have made the distribution of alien species out of their native range common. As a result, alien species can be easily found anywhere, and they have nothing but only a few differences in intensity. The prevalent distribution of alien species adversely affects the ecosystem, and a strategic management plan must be established to control them effectively. To this end, hot spots and cold spots were analyzed according to the degree of distribution of invasive alien plants, and major environmental factors related to hot spots were found. We analyzed the 10,287 distribution points of 126 species of alien plants collected through the national survey of alien species by the hierarchical model of species communities (HMSC) framework.

Results

The explanatory and fourfold cross-validation predictive power of the model were 0.91 and 0.75 as AUC values, respectively. The hot spots of invasive plants were found in the Seoul metropolitan area, Daegu metropolitan city, Chungcheongbuk-do Province, southwest shore, and Jeju island. Generally, the hot spots were found where the higher maximum temperature of summer, precipitation of winter, and road density are observed, but temperature seasonality, annual temperature range, precipitation of the summer, and distance to river and sea were negatively related to the hot spots. According to the model, the functional traits accounted for 55% of the variance explained by the environmental factors. The species with higher specific leaf areas were more found where temperature seasonality was low. Taller species preferred the bigger annual temperature range. The heavier seed mass was only preferred when the max temperature of summer exceeded 29 °C.

Conclusions

In this study, hot spots were places where 2.1 times more alien plants were distributed on average than non-hot spots (33.5 vs 15.7 species). The hot spots of invasive plants were expected to appear in less stressful climate conditions, such as low fluctuation of temperature and precipitation. Also, the disturbance by anthropogenic factors or water flow had positive influences on the hot spots. These results were consistent with the previous reports about the ruderal or competitive strategies of invasive plants instead of the stress-tolerant strategy. The functional traits are closely related to the ecological strategies of plants by shaping the response of species to various environmental filters, and our result confirmed this. Therefore, in order to effectively control alien plants, it is judged that the occurrence of disturbed sites in which alien plants can grow in large quantities is minimized, and the river management of waterfronts is required.
Immobilized enzymes: a comprehensive review
Authors: Khan Mohammad Rafiq
Published: December 2021

Background

This article is a comprehensive review of the events recorded in the history of enzymology from twentieth century to the recent work of author’s groups on different biochemical aspects of the immobilized enzymes. The review differs from those presented before on the basis that it is not limited to one or few aspects. It extends its spectrum to a large number of aspects from the definition to biomedical applications of immobilized enzymes.

Main body

The author and his associates have proposed modification of classification of immobilized enzymes by Enzyme Engineering Conference 1971. His groups have worked on cell bound proteases of medicinal seeds and have given them the name of “naturally immobilized enzymes”. Thus, the author proposes that the enzymes may be basically classified into “naturally immobilized enzymes” and “artificially immobilized enzymes”. The artificially immobilized enzymes may be further sub-classified as done in 1971.

Conclusion

The classification suggested above sounds logical and thus acceptable to the author and his associates. The author and his associates also suggest some applications on the basis of their results on naturally immobilized enzymes.
Food and medicinal relevance of Cucurbitaceae species in Eastern and Southern Africa
Authors: Olarewaju Olaoluwa Omoniyi , Fajinmi Olufunke Omowumi , Arthur Georgina Dede , Coopoosamy Roger Murugas , Naidoo Kubendran Kista
Published: December 2021

Background

The traditional use of medicinal plants is an integral part of African culture and plays a major role in African societies. For centuries, plants have been used to cure diseases and till date, a vast majority of the African people especially in rural communities depend on the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of various ailments.

Main body

The Cucurbitaceae family has a diversity of medicinally relevant species which also play significant roles in food security in Africa. While some are underutilised and are sourced from the wild, others are domesticated and cultivated for food. This review therefore highlights the significance of Cucurbitaceae species in Eastern and Southern African countries. The use of various species in the traditional food and medicine systems of these countries is documented. The review further discusses some poisonous species with close resemblance to edible plants. The fatal effect of consuming any part of such plant species like young or old leaves and unripe fruit is highlighted.

Conclusion

This review is thus a documentation of the crucial role of Cucurbitaceae species in food security, treatment of a variety of diseases and its negative effect on humanity and livestock.
Short-term results of a novel management of supracondylar fracture with coexisting osteoarthritis with bifold fixation and total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Antao Nicholas A. , Londhe Sanjay , Toor Rajan , Shirishkar Rajesh , Aiyer Siddharth
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Presence of supracondylar and periarticular femoral fracture with associated arthritis of knee poses a challenging situation to the orthopaedic surgeon. The results of fixation of fracture in osteoporosis are not very satisfactory and have complications. With fixation alone, they still cannot bear weight on affected leg due to severe disability of osteoarthritis. To make patient walk, conventionally three surgeries in the form of fracture fixation, removal of implant and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) needs to be done in staged manner. We propose a novel management in form of bifold fixation and simultaneous TKA.

Methods

Eight cases (6 females, 2 males) of supracondylar femoral fractures with severe osteoarthritis of the knee and osteoporosis were primarily fixed with bifold fixation using SIGN nail (www.signfracturecare.org) and locking plate together with simultaneous total knee arthroplasty. There were five cases (2 males and 3 females) of grade 4 (Kellgren-Lawrence grading) osteoarthritis (OA) and three cases (all females) of severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Results

The mean age was 68 years and average time for full weight bearing was 6 days. Radiographic evidence of fracture union was achieved in 16.25 weeks. The mean Knee Society Score (KSS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score at 26 months was 83.13 and 22.13 respectively.

Conclusions

Single stage combined bifold osteosynthesis with interlocking nail and locking plate together with total knee arthroplasty helps in one time management of these difficult injuries. It is a cost-effective and economically sound option and gives excellent results with good patient satisfaction.
The use of imageless navigation to quantify cutting error in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Schwarzkopf Ran , Meftah Morteza , Marwin Scott E. , Zabat Michelle A. , Muir Jeffrey M. , Lamb Iain R.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Navigated total knee arthroplasty (TKA) improves implant alignment by providing feedback on resection parameters based on femoral and tibial cutting guide positions. However, saw blade thickness, deflection, and cutting guide motion may lead to final bone cuts differing from planned resections, potentially contributing to suboptimal component alignment. We used an imageless navigation device to intraoperatively quantify the magnitude of error between planned and actual resections, hypothesizing final bone cuts will differ from planned alignment.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study including 60 consecutive patients undergoing primary TKA using a novel imageless navigation device was conducted. Device measurements of resection parameters were obtained via attachment of optical trackers to femoral and tibial cutting guides prior to resection. Following resection, optical trackers were placed directly on the bone cut surface and measurements were recorded. Cutting guide and bone resection measurements of both femoral and tibial varus/valgus, femoral flexion, tibial slope angles, and both femoral and tibial medial and lateral resection depths were compared using a Student's t-test.

Results

Femoral cutting guide position differed from the actual cut by an average 0.6 ± 0.5° (p = 0.85) in the varus/valgus angle and 1.0 ± 1.0° (p = 0.003) in the flexion/extension angle. The difference between planned and actual cut measurements for medial and lateral femoral resection depth was 1.1 ± 1.1 mm (p = 0.32) and 1.2 ± 1.0 mm (p = 0.067), respectively. Planned cut measurements based on tibial guide position differed from the actual cut by an average of 0.9 ± 0.8° (p = 0.63) in the varus/valgus angle and 1.1 ± 1.0° (p = 0.95) in slope angle. Measurement of medial and lateral tibial resection depth differed by an average of 0.1 ± 1.8 mm (p = 0.78) and 0.2 ± 2.1 mm (p = 0.85), respectively.

Conclusions

Significant discrepancies between planned and actual femoral bone resection were demonstrated for flexion/extension angle, likely the result of cutting error. Our data highlights the importance of cut verification postresection to confirm planned resections are achieved, and suggests imageless navigation may be a source of feedback that would allow surgeons to intraoperatively adjust resections to achieve optimal implant alignment.
A theory-based exploration of antibiotic use in primary healthcare in Gezira state, Sudan
Authors: Lohiniva Anna-Leena , Elwali Einas , Abuobaida Duha , Abdulrahim Ashwag , Bukuluki Paul , Talaat Maha
Published: December 2021

Background

Inappropriate use of antibiotics is a major contributing factor to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance globally, including in Sudan.

Objectives

The project aimed to develop a theory-driven behaviour change strategy addressing both prescribers and patients based on factors that are driving antibiotic use in primary healthcare settings in Gezira state in Sudan.

Methods

The strategy was designed based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to identify behavioural domains and the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) to select appropriate intervention functions. The process included (1) a formative qualitative research study and (2) a knowledge co-production workshop that utilized the results of the qualitative study to design a salient, appropriate, and credible behaviour change strategy.

Results

The TDF domains related to prescribers that emerged from the study included knowledge, skills, and intention. The selected BCW intervention functions included education, training, modelling, and persuasion. The main TDF domains related to patients included social influences and intention. The selected BCW intervention functions included enablement and education.

Conclusion

Using the TDF and BCW intervention functions, the study identified behavioural domains that influence antibiotic prescription and consumption in rural primary healthcare settings in Gezira state in Sudan and appropriate intervention functions to modify these behaviours. Knowledge co-production ensured that the evidence-based strategy was acceptable and practical in the local context.
Moving beyond Aim Three: a need for a transdisciplinary approach to build capacity for economic evaluations in implementation science
Authors: Barnett Miya L. , Stadnick Nicole A. , Proctor Enola K. , Dopp Alex R. , Saldana Lisa
Published: December 2021

Background

Understanding the costs and economic benefits of implementation has been identified by policymakers and researchers as critical to increase the uptake and sustainment of evidence-based practices, but this topic remains relatively understudied. Conducting team science with health economists has been proposed as a solution to increase economic evaluation in implementation science; however, these recommendations ignore the differences in goals and perspectives in these two fields. Our recent qualitative research identified that implementation researchers predominantly approach health economists to examine costs, whereas the majority of health economists expressed limited interest in conducting economic evaluations and a desire to be more integrated within implementation science initiatives. These interviews pointed to challenges in establishing fruitful partnerships when health economists are relegated to the “Third Aim” (i.e., lowest-priority research objective) in implementation science projects by their research partners.

Discussion

In this debate paper, we argue that implementation researchers and health economists need to focus on team science research principles to expand capacity to address pressing research questions that cut across the two fields. Specifically, we use the four-phase model of transdisciplinary research to outline the goals and processes needed to build capacity in this area (Hall et al., Transl Behav Med 2:415–30, 2012). The first phase focuses on the development of transdisciplinary research teams, including identifying appropriate partners (e.g., considering policy or public health researchers in addition to health economists) and building trust. The conceptual phase focuses on strategies to consider when developing joint research questions and methodology across fields. In the implementation phase, we outline the effective processes for conducting research projects, such as team learning. Finally, in the translation phase, we highlight how a transdisciplinary approach between health economists and implementation researchers can impact real-world practice and policy.

The importance of investigating the economic impact of evidence-based practice implementation is widely recognized, but efforts have been limited due to the challenges in conducting team science across disciplines. Training in team science can help advance transdisciplinary efforts, which has the potential to increase the rigor and impact of economic evaluations in implementation science while expanding the roles taken by health economists.
Studies on meropenem and cefixime metal ion complexes for antibacterial activity
Authors: Umekar Milind J. , Lohiya Radheshyam T. , Gupta Krishna R. , Kotagale Nandkishore R. , Raut Neha S.
Published: December 2021

Background

The metal ion complexes of meropenem and cefixime with cadmium, silver, palladium, zinc, nickel, cobalt and copper were synthesized and characterized by UV, FTIR and H1-NMR spectrophotometry. The antibacterial effects of the complexes were studied using cup and plate method against S. aureus, B. subtilis, E. coli, P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae for normal and resistant strains of bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the metal ion complexes was determined by broth dilution method.

Results

UV spectroscopic studies suggested that meropenem ligand form complex with different metal ions and FTIR spectrum confirmed the proposed structure. Similarly, UV spectrum of cefixime metal ion complexes at λmax 202–295 nm and meropenem metal ion complexes at λmax 249–304 nm was observed in all the complexes. FTIR peaks for a proposed structure were observed in all the meropenem and cefixime metal ion, indicating the formation of complexes, and retained the functional groups of drugs. Meropenem as well as cefixime metal ion complexes exhibited more antibacterial activity against all the selected bacterial strains. Specifically, the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration against P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae was observed to be 100 and 150 μg/ml, respectively.

Conclusion

The present study concluded that the meropenem and cefixime metal complexes can exhibit the better treatment than individual drug on normal as well as resistant bacteria.
Diabetes in COVID-19 patients: challenges and possible management strategies
Authors: Reshad Riyan Al Islam , Riana Sumaiya Hafiz , Chowdhury Mohammad Al-baruni , Moin Abu Tayab , Miah Faruque , Sarkar Bishajit , Jewel Nurnabi Azad
Published: December 2021

Background

The recent pandemic of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has been causing intense stress among the global population. In the case of hospitalized and ICU-admitted COVID-19 patients with comorbidities, it has been observed that a major portion of them are diabetic. Therefore, researchers had indicated a link between diabetes mellitus (DM) and COVID-19. Furthermore, DM is a potential risk factor for the severity of COVID-19 cases. Thus, in this study, the correlation existing between diabetic patients and COVID-19 was summarized.

Main body of the abstract

Diabetic patients have a weaker immune system, less viral clearance rate, malfunctions of metabolic activity due to their high blood glucose level, and other associated problems. This does not increase the susceptibility for the patients to be infected with COVID-19. However, the severity of COVID-19 can worsen due to the comorbidity of DM.

Short conclusion

Proper management, appropriate use of drugs that do not increase the ACE2 expression, lowering blood glucose level, decreasing the susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle could be effective.
Biophilic smart cities: the role of nature and technology in enhancing urban resilience
Authors: Tarek Sara , Ouf Ahmed Salah El-Din
Published: December 2021

The purpose of the study is to identify the main indicators and aspects for applying biophilic and smart solutions in city planning and design to achieve urban resilience. This research investigates the main definitions, elements, and attributes for biophilic design and smart city planning that help in developing resilience strategies for healthier urban environments. This study follows a methodology that comprises two approaches; first a concise review definition and principles of urban resilience. Then investigating the notions of biophilic and smart approaches to achieve healthier urban environments. Second, an analytical approach that proposes a framework for applying biophilic and smart city indicators to achieve urban resilience. The proposed framework highlights the achieved adaptive capacities for resilient cities due to adopting biophilic and smart solutions. The research results highlight a proposed relationship between principles of urban resilience, biophilic city indicators, and smart city indicators.
Transformation of magnetic data to the pole and vertical dip and a related apparent susceptibility transform: Exact and approximate approaches
Authors: Smith Richard S. , Roots Eric A. , Vavavur Rajesh
Published: December 2021

The dipolar character of magnetic data means that there is a high and a low associated with each source. The relative positions and sizes of these highs and lows vary depending on the magnetic latitude or the inclination of the earth’s magnetic field. One method for dealing with this complexity is to transform the data to what would be collected if the inclination were vertical (as at the magnetic pole), a process that is unstable at low magnetic latitudes. Unfortunately, remanent magnetization adversely impacts the success of this transformation. A second approach is to calculate the analytic-signal amplitude (ASA) of the data, which creates a single positive feature for each source or edge, with the shape being only weakly dependent on the inclination and the presence of remanent magnetization. The ASA anomalies can appear to be relatively broad, so features sometimes merge together on map views of the ASA. A subsequent transformation of the ASA using an appropriate transforming tilt angle can generate a magnetic field of a body that is at the pole and has a vertical dip. The transformation is exact for contacts when calculated from the first-order ASA, but the sign of the transformed data can be incorrect depending on whether you are over one edge or the other edge of a discrete source body. Another approximate transformation of the zeroth-order ASA does not have this issue and gives good results on synthetic data provided that any noise is handled appropriately. The resulting maps outline the magnetic source bodies and have amplitudes proportional to an apparent magnetic susceptibility. On field data from Black Hill, South Australia, the approximate transformation generates an image that is simple to interpret and enhances some features less obvious on other enhancements of the data.
Toward improved distributed acoustic sensing sensitivity for surface-based reflection seismics: Configuration tests at the Aquistore CO2 storage site
Authors: White Don , Bellefleur Gilles , Dodds Kevin , Movahedzadeh Zeinab
Published: December 2021

Alternative fiber configurations have been tested in an attempt to improve the sensitivity of surface-deployed distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) fiber cables for the purpose of recording steep-angle P-wave reflections. Four alternative fiber configurations were deployed at the Aquistore CO2 storage site to record 401 dynamite shots during a 3D vertical seismic profiling survey. The test cable comprised horizontal configurations (straight fiber, helixes, and asymmetric helixes) buried in a shallow trench and vertical configurations (straight fiber and helixes) deployed in 3.5 m drillholes. Evaluation focused on deep reflections with two-way traveltimes of 0.8–1.8 s. All of the alternative fiber configurations increased the sensitivity relative to the horizontal straight fiber. Sensitivity was highest for the vertical straight fiber configurations and the asymmetric helixes with sensitivity increases of more than 10 and 5 dB, respectively, and amplitude-variation-with-offset behavior similar to that of a vertical-component geophone for reflections with incidence angles of 0°–15° at the surface and 0°–34° at the reflector. Modeling of the DAS responses explains the general pattern of sensitivity variability among the different configurations, but it does not explain the large range of observed sensitivities.
Communication in close relationships of persons who dance Argentine tango
Authors: Samochowiec Agnieszka , Sławomira Gruszewska , Magdalena Sompolińska
Published: December 2021

Aim of the study

The aim of study was to evaluate communicative behaviors in close relationships of persons who dance Argentine tango and compare them with couples who do not undertake such activity. We also determined the types of psychological gender in our study groups and evaluated the differences between them.

Subject or material and methods

The study involved 78 persons (who dance Argentine tango and the control group). The set of administered tools included: Communication in Marriage and Partner Relationship Questionnaire, Psychological Gender Inventory and a self-designed demographic survey.

Results

Our data indicated that dancing tango was related to the overall quality of partner communication. Tangueros exhibited significantly better communicative behaviours and assessed their partners’ communicative behaviours better as well. We did not observe any differences in the distribution of psychological gender in the two groups.

Discussion

Our analyses show that the hypotheses concerning the relationship of practising tango and the quality of communication in a close relationship are predominantly accurate. The dancers evaluate their partner’s contribution to communication significantly better- especially their support and commitment, and consider them less prone to diminish their worth. Argentine tango practitioners’ overall assessment of the quality of communication is also significantly higher - both when it comes to their own behavior, and the behavior of their partners.

Conclusions

Dancing tango helps to improve communication and can be an effective form of assistance for persons with difficulties in communication in partner relationships.