bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchy of human needs in the main character of beauty is a wound by Eka Kurniawan
Authors: Siska Siska
Published: February 2021

On this research, the researcher has aim to find out the main character Dewi Ayu’s human needs and identify the most dominant needs. In this study, the researcher applied the psychological approach and theory of human needs. This research is a qualitative descriptive study. The writer uses a library research method to collect the data. It means that the writer visit the library and reads the novel then read several related books. The main data is novel beauty is a wound by Eka Kurniawan, while supporting data is obtained from books, articles, and the internet. The result of this study can be explained that the main character can not totally fulfill well, such as: (1) the physiological needs of the main character can be fulfilled well because she is from a wealthy family (2) the safety can not be fulfilled due to factors in that era (3) the love and belonging need can be fulfilled well because the main character has a beautiful appearance (4) the esteem needs can be fulfilled because she is a famous figure at that time (5) self-actualization needs also can be fulfilled well because the main character is a brave and is able to position herself very well. From the five hierarchy needs the most dominant need is safety needs.
Gelibolulu Mustafa Âlî’nin Mevaidü’n-Nefais adlı eserinde Türk çalgıları
Authors: Tüfekçioğlu Seda
Published: February 2021

XVI. yüzyılın son çeyreğinde yaşamış olan Osmanlı müellifi Gelibolulu Mustafa Ali’nin kaleme aldığı Mevaidü’n-Nefais Fi Kavâdi’l-Mecalis adlı eserinde sosyal hayat, ahlaki davranışlar ve görgü kuralları anlatılmaktadır. Bu eserin on altıncı bölümünde dönemin mûsikî meclisleri ve çalgılarına da yer verilmiştir. Dönemin çalgılarının adlarının eserde verilmiş olması döneme ait hangi çalgıların kullanıldığını anlamak bakımından önemlidir. Bu çalışma İstanbul Raif Yelkenci nüshasının Mehmet Şeker tarafından yapılan çevirisinden faydalanılarak kaleme alınmıştır. Çeviride bazı mûsikî terimleri üzerinde yapılan çeviri hataları için metnin orijinali de incelenmiştir. Ayrıca yine adı geçen çalgılar XV. yüzyıl kaynak eserlerde anlatılan ve XVII. yüzyıl Evliya Çelebi’nin Seyahatnâme’sinde anlatılan çalgılar ile de karşılaştırılarak incelenmiştir. Hornbostel-Sachs sistemine göre çalgı sınıflandırmaları belirtilmiştir.
Evidence-based review of safe theatre practice during the COVID-19 pandemic beyond personal protective equipment
Authors: Khalefa MA , Khadabadi NA , Moores TS , Hossain FS
Published: February 2021

Introduction

COVID-19 remains a threat for a fear of a second pandemic. Emergency orthopaedic operations are still among the most commonly performed procedures with increased risk of transmission of SARS CoV-2 to the patients and the healthcare workers. The aim of this study was to present the evidence available into best practices limiting the spread of COVID-19 in healthcare setting during current and future pandemics.

Methods

A review of the literature was performed in multiple databases (PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control), using ‘COVID-19’ with other relevant keywords in different combinations. Owing to the limited and heterogenous evidence available, data were presented in a narrative manner.

Findings

From the evidence gathered it was noted that a multimodal approach to minimising pathogen transmission is required. This primarily comprises the wider engineering and administrative controls to reduce the concentration of the pathogen and to separate staff and patients from it. Theatre isolation and traffic control bundling, theatre flow and logistics, ventilation and waste management form a pivotal role in the environmental/engineering controls. Administrative measures include policies for both patients and staff. For patients, isolation and preoperative screening are of utmost value. For staff, testing for COVID-19, risk assessment, redeployment and provision of persona; protective equipment, together with the necessary training are important administrative controls.

Conclusion

We believe these measures are likely to improve the sustainability of resources and can be carried to elective settings in order to return to some form of normality and help to mitigate the effects of future pandemics.
Getting it right first time: implementation of laparoscopic pyloromyotomy without a learning curve
Authors: Arul GS , Moni-Nwinia W , Soccorso G , Pachl M , Singh M , Jester I
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Laparoscopic pyloromyotomy is now an accepted procedure for the treatment of pyloric stenosis. However, it is clear that during the implementation period there are significantly higher incidences of mucosal perforation and incomplete pyloromyotomy. We describe how we introduced a new laparoscopic procedure without the complications associated with the learning curve.

Materials and methods

Five consultants tasked one surgeon to pilot and establish laparoscopic pyloromyotomy before mentoring the others until they were performing the procedure independently; all agreed to use exactly the same instruments and operative technique. This involved a 5mm 30-degree infra-umbilical telescope with two 3mm instruments. Data were collected prospectively.

Results

Between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2017, 140 laparoscopic pyloromyotomies were performed (median age 27 days, range 13–133 days, male to female ratio 121:19). Fifty-five per cent of procedures were performed by trainees. Complications were one mucosal perforation and one inadequate pyloromyotomy. There were no injuries to other organs, problems with wound dehiscence or other significant complications. The median time of discharge was one day (range one to six days).

Conclusion

Our rate of perforation and incomplete pyloromyotomy was 1.4%, which is equivalent to the best published series of either open or laparoscopic pyloromyotomy. We believe that this resulted from the coordinated implementation of the procedure using a single technique to reduce clinical variability, increase mentoring and improve training. This approach appears self-evident but is rarely described in the literature of learning curves. In this age of increased accountability, new technologies should be incorporated into routine practice without an increase in morbidity to patients.
Treatment of cutaneous basal cell carcinoma with combined laser extirpation and methyl aminolevulinic acid: five-year success rates
Authors: Azzopardi EA , Abdelrahman W , Azzopardi E , O’Leary B , Yarrow J , Miles N , Barbara C , Camilleri L , Clementoni MT , Murison M
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common cancer. Excisional surgery is associated with a high clearance rate, at the expense of significant functional and aesthetic morbidity, especially within the T-zone or for extensive lesions. We report five-year follow-up outcomes for carbon dioxide laser extirpation of cutaneous basal cell carcinoma, assisted by immediate methyl aminolevulinate photodynamic therapy and cost–benefit considerations.

Materials and methods

Retrospective cohort database analysis of adult patients with biopsy-proven primary cutaneous basal cell carcinoma, completing five years of follow-up. Direct per-lesion cost was compared with conventional wide local excision. Patients with morphoeic basal cell carcinoma were excluded.

Results

Treated lesions were up to 1% total body surface area and up to 3.8mm (1.38 ± 0.695cm, mean ± standard deviation) in biopsy-proven depth. At the five-year follow-up mark, 93.6% of treated areas remained free of recurrence. Nodular basal cell carcinoma was the most common subtype (41.5%). A mean tumour depth greater than 2 ± 0.872mm was significantly associated with recurrence (Mann–Whitney, p = 0.0487). For a service delivered through the NHS at 2015 prices, we report a 43% saving, equating to a saving of £235 per basal cell carcinoma or a national annualised saving of £70 million by 2025 for the NHS.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that CO2-assisted photodynamic therapy is non-inferior to excision but may offer better functional and cosmetic preservation at a fraction of the direct like for like cost of operative surgery. Investigation of this method by randomised controlled methodology is warranted.
In-vivo mechanical characterization of coronary atherosclerotic plaques in living swine using intravascular laser speckle imaging
Authors: Hajjarian Zeinab , Toussaint Jimmy D. , Guerrero J. Luis , Nadkarni Seemantini K.
Published: February 2021

The ability to evaluate the viscoelastic properties of coronary arteries is crucial for identifying mechanically unstable atherosclerotic plaques. Here, we demonstrate for the first time in living swine, the capability of intravascular laser speckle imaging (ILSI) to measure an index of coronary plaque viscoelasticity, τ, using a human coronary to swine xenograft model. Cardiac motion effects are evaluated by comparing the EKG-non-gated

τ
¯

N
G

, and EKG-gated

τ
¯

G

among different plaque types. Results show that both

τ
¯

N
G

and

τ
¯

G

are significantly lower in necrotic-core plaques compared with stable lesions. Discrete-point pullback measurements demonstrate the capability of ILSI for rapid mechanical characterization of coronary segments under physiological conditions, in-vivo.
Vector vortex state preservation in Fresnel cylindrical diffraction
Authors: Hu Yanwen , Mo Guangcui , Ma Zixian , Fu Shenhe , Zhu Siqi , Yin Hao , Li Zhen , Chen Zhenqiang
Published: February 2021

The vector vortex light beam, which exhibits a space-variant polarization state and is coupled with orbital angular momentum of light, has been drawing much attention due to its fundamental interest and potential applications in a wide range. Here we reveal both theoretically and experimentally that a diffractive structure having cylindrical symmetry is shown to be transparent for the vector vortex state of light with arbitrary topology. We demonstrate such an intriguing phenomenon in the Fresnel diffraction condition, where the vector Helmholtz wave equation can be utilized in the paraxial regime. Our demonstration has implications in control and manipulation of vector vortex light beams in diffractive optics, and hence, it may find potential applications.
Rechtliche Fallstricke des Einsatzes von Open Source Software und freier Software – Hinweise für die Praxis
Authors: Wilmer Thomas
Published: February 2021

Der folgende Artikel bietet einen Überblick über die häufigsten Anwendungsprobleme beim Einsatz und der Integration von freier und Open Source Software in der Praxis. Ein Schwerpunkt liegt dabei auf den Herausforderungen für Softwarehersteller, welche freie Software in ihre Produkte integrieren und vertreiben. Hingewiesen wird auf die unterschiedlichen freien Lizenzarten, Best Practice-Lösungsmöglichkeiten und Compliancefragen sowie die Grenzen der Auslegung der Lizenzen.
Building clone-consistent ecosystem models
Authors: Ansmann Gerrit , Bollenbach Tobias
Published: February 2021

Many ecological studies employ general models that can feature an arbitrary number of populations. A critical requirement imposed on such models is clone consistency: If the individuals from two populations are indistinguishable, joining these populations into one shall not affect the outcome of the model. Otherwise a model produces different outcomes for the same scenario. Using functional analysis, we comprehensively characterize all clone-consistent models: We prove that they are necessarily composed from basic building blocks, namely linear combinations of parameters and abundances. These strong constraints enable a straightforward validation of model consistency. Although clone consistency can always be achieved with sufficient assumptions, we argue that it is important to explicitly name and consider the assumptions made: They may not be justified or limit the applicability of models and the generality of the results obtained with them. Moreover, our insights facilitate building new clone-consistent models, which we illustrate for a data-driven model of microbial communities. Finally, our insights point to new relevant forms of general models for theoretical ecology. Our framework thus provides a systematic way of comprehending ecological models, which can guide a wide range of studies.
Protective impacts of household-based tuberculosis contact tracing are robust across endemic incidence levels and community contact patterns
Authors: Havumaki Joshua , Cohen Ted , Zhai Chengwei , Miller Joel C. , Guikema Seth D. , Eisenberg Marisa C. , Zelner Jon
Published: February 2021

There is an emerging consensus that achieving global tuberculosis control targets will require more proactive case finding approaches than are currently used in high-incidence settings. Household contact tracing (HHCT), for which households of newly diagnosed cases are actively screened for additional infected individuals is a potentially efficient approach to finding new cases of tuberculosis, however randomized trials assessing the population-level effects of such interventions in settings with sustained community transmission have shown mixed results. One potential explanation for this is that household transmission is responsible for a variable proportion of population-level tuberculosis burden between settings. For example, transmission is more likely to occur in households in settings with a lower tuberculosis burden and where individuals mix preferentially in local areas, compared with settings with higher disease burden and more dispersed mixing. To better understand the relationship between endemic incidence levels, social mixing, and the impact of HHCT, we developed a spatially explicit model of coupled household and community transmission. We found that the impact of HHCT was robust across settings of varied incidence and community contact patterns. In contrast, we found that the effects of community contact tracing interventions were sensitive to community contact patterns. Our results suggest that the protective benefits of HHCT are robust and the benefits of this intervention are likely to be maintained across epidemiological settings.
Wide range of metabolic adaptations to the acquisition of the Calvin cycle revealed by comparison of microbial genomes
Authors: Asplund-Samuelsson Johannes , Hudson Elton P.
Published: February 2021

Knowledge of the genetic basis for autotrophic metabolism is valuable since it relates to both the emergence of life and to the metabolic engineering challenge of incorporating CO2 as a potential substrate for biorefining. The most common CO2 fixation pathway is the Calvin cycle, which utilizes Rubisco and phosphoribulokinase enzymes. We searched thousands of microbial genomes and found that 6.0% contained the Calvin cycle. We then contrasted the genomes of Calvin cycle-positive, non-cyanobacterial microbes and their closest relatives by enrichment analysis, ancestral character estimation, and random forest machine learning, to explore genetic adaptations associated with acquisition of the Calvin cycle. The Calvin cycle overlaps with the pentose phosphate pathway and glycolysis, and we could confirm positive associations with fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, aldolase, and transketolase, constituting a conserved operon, as well as ribulose-phosphate 3-epimerase, ribose-5-phosphate isomerase, and phosphoglycerate kinase. Additionally, carbohydrate storage enzymes, carboxysome proteins (that raise CO2 concentration around Rubisco), and Rubisco activases CbbQ and CbbX accompanied the Calvin cycle. Photorespiration did not appear to be adapted specifically for the Calvin cycle in the non-cyanobacterial microbes under study. Our results suggest that chemoautotrophy in Calvin cycle-positive organisms was commonly enabled by hydrogenase, and less commonly ammonia monooxygenase (nitrification). The enrichment of specific DNA-binding domains indicated Calvin-cycle associated genetic regulation. Metabolic regulatory adaptations were illustrated by negative correlation to AraC and the enzyme arabinose-5-phosphate isomerase, which suggests a downregulation of the metabolite arabinose-5-phosphate, which may interfere with the Calvin cycle through enzyme inhibition and substrate competition. Certain domains of unknown function that were found to be important in the analysis may indicate yet unknown regulatory mechanisms in Calvin cycle-utilizing microbes. Our gene ranking provides targets for experiments seeking to improve CO2 fixation, or engineer novel CO2-fixing organisms.
Afrotropical sand fly-host plant relationships in a leishmaniasis endemic area, Kenya
Authors: Hassaballa Iman B. , Sole Catherine L. , Cheseto Xavier , Torto Baldwyn , Tchouassi David P.
Published: February 2021

The bioecology of phlebotomine sand flies is intimately linked to the utilization of environmental resources including plant feeding. However, plant feeding behavior of sand flies remains largely understudied for Afrotropical species. Here, using a combination of biochemical, molecular, and chemical approaches, we decipher specific plant-feeding associations in field-collected sand flies from a dry ecology endemic for leishmaniasis in Kenya. Cold-anthrone test indicative of recent plant feeding showed that fructose positivity rates were similar in both sand fly sexes and between those sampled indoors and outdoors. Analysis of derived sequences of the ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase large subunit gene (rbcL) from fructose-positive specimens implicated mainly Acacia plants in the family Fabaceae (73%) as those readily foraged on by both sexes ofPhlebotomusandSergentomyia. Chemical analysis by high performance liquid chromatography detected fructose as the most common sugar in sand flies and leaves of selected plant species in the Fabaceae family. Analysis of similarities (ANOSIM) of the headspace volatile profiles of selected Fabaceae plants identified benzyl alcohol, (Z)-linalool oxide, (E)-β-ocimene,p-cymene,p-cresol, andm-cresol, as discriminating compounds between the plant volatiles. These results indicate selective sand fly plant feeding and suggest that the discriminating volatile organic compounds could be exploited in attractive toxic sugar- and odor- bait technologies control strategies.
Calcite seed-assisted microbial induced carbonate precipitation (MICP)
Authors: Zehner Jennifer , Røyne Anja , Sikorski Pawel
Published: February 2021

Microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) is a biological process inducing biomineralization of CaCO3. This can be used to form a solid, concrete-like material. To be able to use MICP successfully to produce solid materials, it is important to understand the formation process of the material in detail. It is well known that crystallization surfaces can influence the precipitation process. Therefore, we present in this contribution a systematic study investigating the influence of calcite seeds on the MICP process. We focus on the changes in the pH and changes of the optical density (OD) signal measured with absorption spectroscopy to analyze the precipitation process. Furthermore, optical microscopy was used to visualize the precipitation processes in the sample and connect them to changes in the pH and OD. We show, that there is a significant difference in the pH evolution between samples with and without calcite seeds present and that the shape of the pH evolution and the changes in OD can give detailed information about the mineral precipitation and transformations. In the presented experiments we show, that amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) can also precipitate in the presence of initial calcite seeds and this can have implications for consolidated MICP materials.
Three-dimensional-printed custom guides for bipolar coxofemoral osteochondral allograft in dogs
Authors: De Armond Christina C. , Kim Stanley E. , Lewis Daniel D. , Biedryzcki Adam H. , Banks Scott A. , Cook James L. , Keister Justin D.
Published: February 2021

The objective of this experimental study was to develop and evaluate a three-dimensionally printed custom surgical guide system for performing bipolar coxofemoral osteochondral allograft transplantation in dogs. Five cadaver dogs, weighing 20–38 kg were used in the study. Custom surgical guides were designed and three-dimensionally printed to facilitate accurate execution of a surgical plan for bipolar coxofemoral osteochondral allograft transplantation. Guide-assisted technique was compared to freehand technique in each cadaver. Surgical time was recorded and postoperative computed tomography and three-dimensional segmentation was performed. Femoral version and inclination angles, femoral neck length, and gap present at the femoral and acetabular donor-recipient interface was compared between the virtual surgical plan and postoperative outcome for both techniques. One-tailed paired t-test (P < .05) was used for statistical analysis. When compared to free-hand preparation, mean donor femoral preparation time was 10 minutes longer and mean recipient preparation time was 2 minutes longer when using guides (p = 0.011 and p = 0.001, respectively). No difference in acetabular preparation time was noted between groups. Gap volume at the acetabular and femoral donor-recipient interface was not different between groups. Mean difference between the planned and postoperative version angle was 6.2° lower for the guide group when compared to the freehand group (p = 0.025). Mean femoral neck length was 2 mm closer to the plan when using guides than when performing surgery freehand (p = 0.037). Accuracy for femoral angle of inclination was not different between groups. Custom surgical guides warrants consideration in developing bipolar coxofemoral osteochondral allograft transplantation as an alternative surgical technique for managing hip disorders in dogs.
Origin, genetic diversity and evolution of Andaman local duck, a native duck germplasm of an insular region of India
Authors: De Arun Kumar , Sawhney Sneha , Bhattacharya Debasis , Sujatha T. , Sunder Jai , Ponraj Perumal , Ravi S. K. , Mondal Samiran , Malakar Dhruba , Kundu A.
Published: February 2021

Domestic ducks are of paramount importance as a cheap source of protein in rural India. Andaman local duck (ALD) is an indigenous avian genetic resource of Andaman and Nicobar islands (ANI) and is mainly distributed in Middle and Northern parts of these islands. Negligence has brought this breed on the edge of extinction necessitating immediate conservation efforts. Here, we report the genetic diversity, population structure and matrilineal genetic root of ALD. Partial mtDNA D-loop sequences were analyzed in 71 ALD samples and analysis revealed 19 polymorphic sites and 13 haplotypes. Estimated haplotype (Hd ± SD) and nucleotide diversity (π ± SD) were 0.881 ± 0.017 and 0.00897 ± 0.00078 respectively. The high genetic diversity of ALD indicates introgression of genetic material from other local duck breeds. In addition, it can be postulated that ALD bearing high genetic diversity has strong ability to adapt to environmental changes and can withstand impending climate change. Phylogenetic and network analysis indicate that ALD falls under Eurasian clade of mallard and ALD forms three clusters; one cluster is phylogenetically close to Southeast Asian countries, one close to Southern part of mainland India and the third one forms an independent cluster. Therefore, ALD might have migrated either from Southeast Asian countries which enjoy a close cultural bondage with ANI from time immemorial or from Southern part of India. The independent cluster may have evolved locally in these islands and natural selection pressure imposed by environmental conditions might be the driving force for evaluation of these duck haplotypes; which mimics Darwin’s theory of natural selection. The results of the study will be beneficial for formulating future breeding programme and conservation strategy towards sustainable development of the duck breed.
Winter roost selection of Lasiurine tree bats in a pyric landscape
Authors: Jorge Marcelo H. , Ford W. Mark , Sweeten Sara E. , Freeze Samuel R. , True Michael C. , St. Germain Michael J. , Taylor Hila , Gorman Katherine M. , Garrison Elina P. , Cherry Michael J.
Published: February 2021

Day-roost selection by Lasiurine tree bats during winter and their response to dormant season fires is unknown in the southeastern United States where dormant season burning is widely applied. Although fires historically were predominantly growing season, they now occur in the dormant season in this part of the Coastal Plain to support a myriad of stewardship activities, including habitat management for game species. To examine the response of bats to landscape condition and the application of prescribed fire, in the winter of 2019, we mist-netted and affixed radio-transmitters to 16 Lasiurine bats, primarily Seminole bats (Lasiurus seminolus) at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center in northern Florida. We then located day-roost sites to describe roost attributes. For five Seminole bats, one eastern red bat (Lasiurus borealis), and one hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), we applied prescribed burns in the roost area to observe bat response in real-time. Generally, Seminole bats selected day-roosts in mesic forest stands with high mean fire return intervals. At the roost tree scale, Seminole day-roosts tended to be larger, taller and in higher canopy dominance classes than surrounding trees. Seminole bats roosted in longleaf (Pinus palustris), slash (Pinus elliotii) and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) more than expected based on availability, whereas sweetbay (Magnolia virginiana), water oak (Quercus nigra) and turkey oak (Quercus laevis), were roosted in less than expected based on availability. Of the seven roosts subjected to prescribed burns, only one male Seminole bat and one male eastern red bat evacuated during or immediately following burning. In both cases, these bats had day-roosted at heights lower than the majority of other day-roosts observed during our study. Our results suggest Seminole bats choose winter day-roosts that both maximize solar exposure and minimize risks associated with fire. Nonetheless, because selected day-roosts largely were fire-dependent or tolerant tree species, application of fire does need to periodically occur to promote recruitment and retention of suitable roost sites.
Genetic diversity of native and cultivated Ugandan Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora Pierre ex A. Froehner): Climate influences, breeding potential and diversity conservation
Authors: Kiwuka Catherine , Goudsmit Eva , Tournebize Rémi , de Aquino Sinara Oliveira , Douma Jacob C. , Bellanger Laurence , Crouzillat Dominique , Stoffelen Piet , Sumirat Ucu , Legnaté Hyacinthe , Marraccini Pierre , de Kochko Alexandre , Andrade Alan Carvalho , Mulumba John Wasswa , Musoli Pascal , Anten Niels P. R. , Poncet Valérie
Published: February 2021

Wild genetic resources and their ability to adapt to environmental change are critically important in light of the projected climate change, while constituting the foundation of agricultural sustainability. To address the expected negative effects of climate change on Robusta coffee trees (Coffea canephora), collecting missions were conducted to explore its current native distribution in Uganda over a broad climatic range. Wild material from seven forests could thus be collected. We used 19 microsatellite (SSR) markers to assess genetic diversity and structure of this material as well as material from twoex-situcollections and a feral population. The UgandanC.canephoradiversity was then positioned relative to the species’ global diversity structure. Twenty-two climatic variables were used to explore variations in climatic zones across the sampled forests. Overall, Uganda’s nativeC.canephoradiversity differs from other known genetic groups of this species. In northwestern (NW) Uganda, four distinct genetic clusters were distinguished being from Zoka, Budongo, Itwara and Kibale forests A large southern-central (SC) cluster included Malabigambo, Mabira, and Kalangala forest accessions, as well as feral and cultivated accessions, suggesting similarity in genetic origin and strong gene flow between wild and cultivated compartments. We also confirmed the introduction of Congolese varieties into the SC region where most Robusta coffee production takes place. Identified populations occurred in divergent environmental conditions and 12 environmental variables significantly explained 16.3% of the total allelic variation across populations. The substantial genetic variation within and between Ugandan populations with different climatic envelopes might contain adaptive diversity to cope with climate change. The accessions that we collected have substantially enriched the diversity hosted in the Ugandan collections and thus contribute toex situconservation of this vital genetic resource. However, there is an urgent need to develop strategies to enhance complementaryin-situconservation ofCoffea canephorain native forests in northwestern Uganda.
Large-scale simulation of traffic flow using Markov model
Authors: Besenczi Renátó , Bátfai Norbert , Jeszenszky Péter , Major Roland , Monori Fanny , Ispány Márton
Published: February 2021

Modeling and simulating movement of vehicles in established transportation infrastructures, especially in large urban road networks is an important task. It helps in understanding and handling traffic problems, optimizing traffic regulations and adapting the traffic management in real time for unexpected disaster events. A mathematically rigorous stochastic model that can be used for traffic analysis was proposed earlier by other researchers which is based on an interplay between graph and Markov chain theories. This model provides a transition probability matrix which describes the traffic’s dynamic with its unique stationary distribution of the vehicles on the road network. In this paper, a new parametrization is presented for this model by introducing the concept of two-dimensional stationary distribution which can handle the traffic’s dynamic together with the vehicles’ distribution. In addition, the weighted least squares estimation method is applied for estimating this new parameter matrix using trajectory data. In a case study, we apply our method on the Taxi Trajectory Prediction dataset and road network data from the OpenStreetMap project, both available publicly. To test our approach, we have implemented the proposed model in software. We have run simulations in medium and large scales and both the model and estimation procedure, based on artificial and real datasets, have been proved satisfactory and superior to the frequency based maximum likelihood method. In a real application, we have unfolded a stationary distribution on the map graph of Porto, based on the dataset. The approach described here combines techniques which, when used together to analyze traffic on large road networks, has not previously been reported.
Structural validity of the Chronic Pain Coping Inventory—Brazilian version
Authors: Souza Layz Alves Ferreira , Pereira Lilian Varanda , de Moura Louise Amália , Díaz Leidy-Johanna Rueda , da Cruz Diná de Almeida Lopes Monteiro , Aparecido Da Silva José
Published: February 2021

Background

The Chronic Pain Coping Inventory (CPCI) has been widely used to measure coping with pain, however, the psychometric properties of the Brazilian CPCI are unknown.

Aim

To verify the validity and reliability of the CPCI-Brazilian version.

Materials and methods

A sample of 705 outpatients with chronic pain participated in the study. Cronbach’s alpha, corrected item-total correlations, and confirmatory factor analysis were performed, using the method of Diagonally Weighted Least Squares.

Results

Construct validity was supported with a factor loading range of 0.36–0.90 (9 factors) corroborating original loads. The final model had adequate fit with items 42 and 54 excluded, D.F = 2174, TLI = 0.96; CFI = 0.96 and RMSEA = 0.051(p = 0.067). Eight of the nine CPCI scales showed satisfactory reliability (Cronbach’s alpha ranged from 0.70 to 0.92). The Relaxation scale obtained a low alpha value (0.53).

Conclusion

The CPCI-Brazilian version, after exclusion of items 42 and 54, is valid to measure chronic pain coping in Brazilian adults.
Extracorporeal cytokine adsorption: Significant reduction of catecholamine requirement in patients with AKI and septic shock after cardiac surgery
Authors: Boss Kristina , Jahn Michael , Wendt Daniel , Haidari Zaki , Demircioglu Ender , Thielmann Matthias , Ruhparwar Arjang , Kribben Andreas , Tyczynski Bartosz
Published: February 2021

Background

Extracorporeal cytokine adsorption is an option in septic shock as an additional measure to treat a pathological immune response. Purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of extracorporeal cytokine adsorption on hemodynamic parameters in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) on continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) and septic shock after cardiac surgery.

Methods

In this retrospective study, a total of 98 patients were evaluated. Hemoadsorption was performed by the CytoSorb® adsorber. In all patients cytokine adsorption was applied for at least 15 hours and at least one adsorber was used per patient. To compare cumulative inotrope need in order to maintain a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of ≥ 65 mmHg, we applied vasoactive score (VAS) for each patient before and after cytokine adsorption. A paired t-test has been performed to determine statistical significance.

Results

Before cytokine adsorption the mean VAS was 56.7 points. This was statistically significant decreased after cytokine adsorption (27.7 points, p< 0.0001). Before cytokine adsorption, the mean noradrenalin dose to reach a MAP of ≥ 65 mmHg was 0.49 μg/kg bw/min, the mean adrenalin dose was 0.12 μg/kg bw/min. After cytokine adsorption, significantly reduced catecholamine doses were necessary to maintain a MAP of ≥ 65 mmHg (0.24 μg/kg bw/min noradrenalin; p< 0.0001 and 0.07 μg/kg bw/min adrenalin; p < 0.0001). Moreover, there was a significant reduction of serum lactate levels after treatment (p< 0.0001). The mean SOFA-score for these patients with septic shock and AKI before cytokine adsorption was 16.7 points, the mean APACHE II-score was 30.2 points. The mean predicted in-hospital mortality rate based on this SOFA-score of 16.7 points was 77,0%, respectively 73,0% on APACHE II-score, while the all-cause in-hospital mortality rate of the patients in this study was 59.2%.

Conclusion

In patients with septic shock and AKI undergoing cardiac surgery, extracorporeal cytokine adsorption could significantly lower the need for postoperative inotropes. Additionally, observed versus SOFA- and APACHE II-score predicted in-hospital mortality rate was decreased.
Physicochemical properties and formulation development of a novel compound inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation
Authors: Wang Nan , Qi Feng , Yu Haqing , Yestrepsky Bryan D. , Larsen Scott D. , Shi Honglan , Ji Juan , Anderson David W. , Li Hao , Sun Hongmin
Published: February 2021

The emergence of antibiotic resistance over the past several decades has given urgency to new antibacterial strategies that apply less selective pressure. A new class of anti-virulence compounds were developed that are active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), by inhibiting bacterial virulence without hindering their growth to reduce the selective pressure for resistance development. One of the compounds CCG-211790 has demonstrated potent anti-biofilm activity against MRSA. This new class of anti-virulence compounds inhibited the gene expression of virulence factors involved in biofilm formation and disrupted the biofilm structures. In this study, the physicochemical properties of CCG-211790, including morphology, solubility in pure water or in water containing sodium dodecyl sulfate, solubility in organic solvents, and stability with respect to pH were investigated for the first time. Furthermore, a topical formulation was developed to enhance the therapeutic potential of the compound. The formulation demonstrated acceptable properties for drug release, viscosity, pH, cosmetic elegance and stability of over nine months.
Bioactivities of rose-scented geranium nanoemulsions against the larvae of Anopheles stephensi and their gut bacteria
Authors: Dehghankar Maryam , Maleki-Ravasan Naseh , Tahghighi Azar , Karimian Fateh , Karami Mohsen
Published: February 2021

Anopheles stephensiwith three different biotypes is a major vector of malaria in Asia. It breeds in a wide range of habitats. Therefore, safer and more sustainable methods are needed to control its immature stages rather than chemical pesticides. The larvicidal and antibacterial properties of thePelargonium roseumessential oil (PREO) formulations were investigated against mysorensis and intermediate forms ofAn.stephensiin laboratory conditions. A series of nanoemulsions containing different amounts of PREO, equivalent to the calculated LC50values for eachAn.stephensiform, and various quantities of surfactants and co-surfactants were developed. The physical and morphological properties of the most lethal formulations were also determined. PREO and its major components, i.e. citronellol (21.34%), L-menthone (6.41%), linalool (4.214%), and geraniol (2.19%), showed potent larvicidal activity against the studied mosquitoes. The LC50/90values for mysorensis and intermediate forms were computed as 11.44/42.42 ppm and 12.55/47.69 ppm, respectively. The F48/F44 nanoformulations with 94% and 88% lethality for the mysorensis and intermediate forms were designated as optimized formulations. The droplet size, polydispersity index, and zeta-potential for F48/F44 were determined as 172.8/90.95 nm, 0.123/0.183, and -1.08/-2.08 mV, respectively. These results were also confirmed by TEM analysis. Prepared formulations displayed antibacterial activity against larval gut bacteria in the following order of decreasing inhibitory: LC90, optimized nanoemulsions, and LC50. PREO-based formulations were more effective against mysorensis than intermediate. Compared to the crude PREO, the overall larvicidal activity of all nanoformulations boosted by 20% and the optimized formulations by 50%. The sensitivity of insect gut bacteria may be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of the effect of toxins on target insects. The formulations designed in the present study may be a good option as a potent and selective larvicide forAn.stephensi.
Physical inactivity in healthy, obese, and diabetic adults in Germany: An analysis of related socio-demographic variables
Authors: Linder Stephanie , Abu-Omar Karim , Geidl Wolfgang , Messing Sven , Sarshar Mustafa , Reimers Anne K. , Ziemainz Heiko
Published: February 2021

Background

Adults with diabetes or obesity are more likely to be physically inactive than healthy adults. Physical activity is essential in the management of both diseases, necessitating targeted interventions in these groups. This study analysed physical inactivity (defined as not taking part in leisure-time physical activity) in over 100,000 adults in Germany considering their body mass index and the presence of diabetes. Furthermore, the relationship between specific socio-demographic factors with physical inactivity was investigated, particularly focussing diabetic and obese people, to refine the identification of risk-groups for targeted interventions on physical activity promotion.

Methods

Data from 13 population-based health surveys conducted in Germany from 1997 to 2018 were used. The relevant variables extracted from these datasets were merged and employed in the analyses. We included data from 129,886 individuals in the BMI analyses and 58,311 individuals in the diabetes analyses. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the importance of six socio-demographic variables (age, sex/gender, education, income, employment, and migration) for the risk of physical inactivity.

Results

Obese and diabetic people reported a higher prevalence of physical inactivity than those who were not affected. Logistic regression analyses revealed advanced age, low education level, and low household income as risk factors for physical inactivity in all groups. A two-sided migration background and unemployment also indicated a higher probability of physical inactivity.

Conclusion

Similar socio-demographic barriers appear to be important determinants of physical inactivity, regardless of BMI status or the presence of diabetes. However, physical activity promoting interventions in obese and diabetic adults should consider the specific disease-related characteristics of these groups. A special need for target group specific physical activity programmes in adults from ethnic minorities or of advanced age was further identified.
Invasive species allelopathy decreases plant growth and soil microbial activity
Authors: Qu Tongbao , Du Xue , Peng Yulan , Guo Weiqiang , Zhao Chunli , Losapio Gianalberto
Published: February 2021

According to the ‘novel weapons hypothesis’, invasive success depends on harmful plant biochemicals, including allelopathic antimicrobial roots exudate that directly inhibit plant growth and soil microbial activity. However, the combination of direct and soil-mediated impacts of invasive plants via allelopathy remains poorly understood. Here, we addressed the allelopathic effects of an invasive plant species (Rhus typhina) on a cultivated plant (Tagetes erecta), soil properties and microbial communities. We grew T. erecta on soil samples at increasing concentrations of R. typhina root extracts and measured both plant growth and soil physiological profile with community-level physiological profiles (CLPP) using Biolog Eco-plates incubation. We found that R. typhina root extracts inhibit both plant growth and soil microbial activity. Plant height, Root length, soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN) and AWCD were significantly decreased with increasing root extract concentration, and plant above-ground biomass (AGB), below-ground biomass (BGB) and total biomass (TB) were significantly decreased at 10 mg·mL-1 of root extracts. In particular, root extracts significantly reduced the carbon source utilization of carbohydrates, carboxylic acids and polymers, but enhanced phenolic acid. Redundancy analysis shows that soil pH, TN, SOC and EC were the major driving factors of soil microbial activity. Our results indicate that strong allelopathic impact of root extracts on plant growth and soil microbial activity by mimicking roots exudate, providing novel insights into the role of plant–soil microbe interactions in mediating invasion success.
Birth weight, growth, nutritional status and mortality of infants from Lambaréné and Fougamou in Gabon in their first year of life
Authors: Zoleko-Manego Rella , Mischlinger Johannes , Dejon-Agobé Jean Claude , Basra Arti , Mackanga J. Rodolphe , Akerey Diop Daisy , Adegnika Ayola Akim , Agnandji Selidji T. , Lell Bertrand , Kremsner Peter G. , Matsiegui Pierre Blaise , González Raquel , Menendez Clara , Ramharter Michael , Mombo-Ngoma Ghyslain
Published: February 2021

Background

Malnutrition and low birth weight (LBW) are two common causes of morbidity and mortality among children in sub-Saharan Africa. Both malnutrition and LBW affect early childhood development with long term consequences that may vary in their degree depending on the geographical setting. This study evaluates growth, nutritional status and mortality of infants from Lambaréné and Fougamou in Gabon from a birth cohort of a malaria in pregnancy clinical trial (NCT00811421).

Method

A prospective longitudinal birth cohort conducted between 2009 and 2012, included infants that were followed up from birth until their first-year anniversary. The exposure of interest was low birth weight and the outcomes explored were growth represented by weight gain, the nutritional status including stunting, wasting and underweight, and the mortality. Scheduled follow-up visits were at one, nine and 12 months of age. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between low birth weight and growth and nutritional outcomes, and cox regression was used for mortality.

Result

A total of 907 live-born infants were included in the analysis. The prevalence of LBW was 13% (115). At one month of life, out of 743 infants 10% and 4% presented with stunting and underweight, respectively, while these proportions increased at 12 months of life to 17% and 21%, respectively, out of 530 infants. The proportion of infants with wasting remained constant at 7% throughout the follow-up period. Stunting and underweight were associated with LBW, adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.6, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 1.4–4.9 and aOR: 4.5, 95%CI: 2.5–8.1, respectively. Preterm birth was associated with stunting, aOR: 2.7, 95%CI: 1.2–6.3 and underweight, aOR: 5.4, 95%CI: 1.7–16.1 at one month of life. Infants with LBW were at higher hazard of death during the first year of life, adjusted hazard ratio 4.6, 95%CI: 1.2–17.0.

Conclusion

Low birthweight infants in Gabon are at higher risks of growth and nutritional deficits and mortality during the first year of life. Tailored interventions aiming at preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes including LBW, early detection and appropriate management of growth, and nutritional deficits in infants are necessary in Gabon.
Accuracy of partial coherence interferometry in patients with large inter-eye axial length difference
Authors: Petersen Christine A. , Terveen Daniel C. , Quist Tyler , Taravati Parisa , Ding Leona , Oetting Thomas A. , Chen Philip P.
Published: February 2021

Background

To determine accuracy of partial coherence interferometry (PCI) in patients with large inter-eye axial eye length (AEL) difference.

Methods

Patients undergoing cataract surgery at two academic medical centers with an inter-eye axial eye length (AEL) difference of > 0.30 mm were identified and were matched to control patients without inter-eye AEL difference > 0.30 mm on the basis of age, sex, and AEL. The expected post-operative refraction for the implanted IOL was calculated using SRK/T, Holladay II, and Hoffer Q formulae. The main outcome measures were the refractive prediction error and the equivalence of the refractive outcomes between the subjects and controls.

Results

Review of 2212 eyes from 1617 patients found 131 eyes of 93 patients which met inclusion criteria. These were matched to 131 control eyes of 115 patients. The mean AEL was 24.92 ± 1.50 mm. The mean absolute error (MAE) ranged from 0.47 D to 0.69 D, and was not statistically different between subjects and controls. The refractive prediction error was equivalent between the cases and controls, with no significant difference between the MAE for any formula, nor in the number of cases vs. controls with a refractive prediction error of at least 0.50 D or 1.00 D.

Conclusions

Among eyes in our study population, good-quality PCI data was equally accurate in patients with or without an inter-eye AEL difference > 0.30 mm. Confirmatory AEL measurements using different AEL measuring modalities in patients with a large inter-eye AEL difference may not be necessary.