bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mycotoxin contamination in feeds and feed materials in China in year 2020
Authors: Li Anping , Hao Wei , Guan Shu , Wang Jinyong , An Gang
Published: October 2022

A survey of mycotoxin contamination in feed commodities in China was performed and the regional differences of mycotoxin contamination in new season corn was assessed during January 2020–November 2020 in this research. 1,610 samples were analyzed for the major mycotoxins, namely aflatoxins, zearalenone (ZEN), trichothecenes type B, fumonisins (FUM), fusariotoxin T-2 (T-2) and ochratoxin A (OTA) using methods of liquid chromatography—tandem mass spectrometry and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Generally, aflatoxins occurred in 16% of all samples, and ZEN, trichothecenes type B and FUM were more prevalent with positive rates of 47, 72, and 63%, respectively. T2 and OTA were rarely detected. In new season corn, samples were also seriously contaminated with ZEN, trichothecenes type B, and FUM at positive rates of 47, 76, and 79%, respectively, and their averages of positives were 112, 735, and 3,811 μg/kg, respectively. The patterns of mycotoxin occurrence showed distinct regional trends in new season corn samples. Samples from Shandong province were highly contaminated with FUM, while special attention should be paid to aflatoxins in Anhui and Jiangsu provinces of East China. The contents of trichothecenes type B and ZEN from northern to southern provinces showed downward trends. In new season corm, co-occurrence of mycotoxins was widespread, and combinations of ZEN, trichothecenes type B, and FUM were frequently observed in this study. Trichothecenes type B and ZEN concentrations showed a positive correlation coefficient of 0.294, suggesting that toxicological interactions of these toxins deserve attention.
A Planar Underactuated Compaction Mechanism with Self-Adaptability for Automated Fiber Placement Heads
Authors: Liu Fei , Zhang Wuxiang , Shang Junfan , Yi Minghui , Wang Shenru , Ding Xilun
Published: October 2022

Automated fiber placement (AFP) systems accommodate complex-shaped structures by pressing fibers against the non-planar surfaces of mandrels, in which compaction mechanisms are of crucial significance. A conventional compaction mechanism utilizes an independent actuator with compacting rollers to conform surfaces. Compared with these mechanisms, underactuated mechanisms can improve self-adjustability and functionality. This research introduces the concept design and the analysis of a planar underactuated compaction mechanism for automated fiber placement heads. Firstly, the requirements and design premise are determined. Then, a novel planar underactuated compaction mechanism with a bistable structure is constructed based on the metamorphic design theory. Secondly, the analytical models are established to give insight into the motion characteristics of the mechanism. Moreover, the example and simulation results are presented to verify the conceptual design. Furthermore, the standard deviation of the contact force of the planar underactuated compaction mechanism is much lower than that of a conventional compaction mechanism under equal conditions. Finally, the potential application of the underactuated mechanisms is discussed. Thus, this research shows that the designed compaction mechanism increases the adjustability, robustness, and high repeatability in positioning and can be used to simplify the motion planning for AFP systems when producing complex structures.
Predicting the Level of Respiratory Support in COVID-19 Patients Using Machine Learning
Authors: Abdeltawab Hisham , Khalifa Fahmi , ElNakieb Yaser , Elnakib Ahmed , Taher Fatma , Alghamdi Norah Saleh , Sandhu Harpal Singh , El-Baz Ayman
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a machine learning-based system for the prediction of the required level of respiratory support in COVID-19 patients is proposed. The level of respiratory support is divided into three classes: class 0 which refers to minimal support, class 1 which refers to non-invasive support, and class 2 which refers to invasive support. A two-stage classification system is built. First, the classification between class 0 and others is performed. Then, the classification between class 1 and class 2 is performed. The system is built using a dataset collected retrospectively from 3491 patients admitted to tertiary care hospitals at the University of Louisville Medical Center. The use of the feature selection method based on analysis of variance is demonstrated in the paper. Furthermore, a dimensionality reduction method called principal component analysis is used. XGBoost classifier achieves the best classification accuracy (84%) in the first stage. It also achieved optimal performance in the second stage, with a classification accuracy of 83%.
Pharmacological Treatment for Neuroinflammation in Stress-Related Disorder
Authors: Lee Dong-Hun , Lee Ji-Young , Hong Dong-Yong , Lee Eun-Chae , Park Sang-Won , Lee Yun-Kyung , Oh Jae-Sang
Published: October 2022

Stress is an organism’s response to a biological or psychological stressor, a method of responding to threats. The autonomic nervous system and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis) regulate adaptation to acute stress and secrete hormones and excitatory amino acids. This process can induce excessive inflammatory reactions to the central nervous system (CNS) by HPA axis, glutamate, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) etc., under persistent stress conditions, resulting in neuroinflammation. Therefore, in order to treat stress-related neuroinflammation, the improvement effects of several mechanisms of receptor antagonist and pharmacological anti-inflammation treatment were studied. The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonist, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor etc., effectively improved neuroinflammation. The interesting fact is that not only can direct anti-inflammation treatment improve neuroinflammation, but so can stress reduction or pharmacological antidepressants. The antidepressant treatments, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), also helped improve stress-related neuroinflammation. It presents the direction of future development of stress-related neuroinflammation drugs. Therefore, in this review, the mechanism of stress-related neuroinflammation and pharmacological treatment candidates for it were reviewed. In addition, treatment candidates that have not yet been verified but indicate possibilities were also reviewed.
Acne Vulgaris, Atopic Dermatitis and Rosacea: The Role of the Skin Microbiota—A Review
Authors: Condrò Giorgia , Guerini Marta , Castello Michela , Perugini Paola
Published: October 2022

The skin harbors a huge number of different microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses, and it acts as a protective shield to prevent the invasion of pathogens and to maintain the health of the commensal microbiota. Several studies, in fact, have shown the importance of the skin microbiota for healthy skin. However, this balance can be altered by intrinsic and extrinsic factors, leading to the development of skin disease, such as acne vulgaris (AV), atopic dermatitis (AD) and rosacea(RS). Although these diseases are widespread and affect both adolescents and adults, the scientific correlation between these disorders and the skin microbiota and physiological parameters (TEWL, hydration and lipid composition) is still unclear. This review aims to investigate the current literature regarding the correlation between the skin microbiota and its imbalance underlying microbiological aspects, how the skin microbiota changes over the course of the disease and the current possible treatments. The following reported studies show a general imbalance of the bacterial flora. For this reason, more in-depth studies are necessary to explore the different subspecies and strains involved in all three diseases.
Effects of Accelerated Aging on Color Stability and Surface Roughness of a Biomimetic Composite: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Alshehri Abdullah , Alhalabi Feras , Mustafa Mohammed , Awad Mohamed M. , Alqhtani Mohammed , Almutairi Mohammed , Alhijab Faisal , Jurado Carlos A. , Fischer Nicholas G. , Nurrohman Hamid , Alshabib Abdulrahman
Published: October 2022

The aim of this in vitro study is to compare the color stability and surface roughness of conventional and self-blending resin composites before and after staining and aging. Three conventional composites (Filtek Z350, IPS Empress Direct, and Estalite Palfique LX5) and one self-blending (Omnichroma) resin composite were used in this study. Sixty discs were prepared and polymerized in a metal mold (n = 15 per group). Samples were then finished and polished by Layan discs. Color testing and roughness testing were measured as a baseline (T0) by a spectrophotometer and profilometry. Samples were then stained with tea for 24 h, water aged for 30 days, and then a second reading (T1) was performed. Finishing and polishing were performed again, and a third reading (T2) was collected. All groups showed significant decrease in all color parameters (L*, a*, and b*); however, after polishing, all groups showed color enhancements matching pre-experiment baseline colors in all color parameters (L*, a*, and b*), except for Estelite Palfique LX5, which showed a significant difference in L relative to the baseline. Furthermore, Estalite Palfique LX5 showed increased roughness after staining compared to the baseline, unlike other groups. No significant differences in color stability were found between self-blending composites and other composite materials. Accelerated aging and staining had minimal effects on the surface roughness of self-blending composite.
Improving the Learning in Life Education for Young Children Aged 3 to 6 Years: A Review on the Research Themes of Early Childhood Life Education in Taiwan
Authors: Shih Yi-Huang
Published: October 2022

The National Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations and the NCL (National Central Library) Taiwan Periodical Literature database were used to analyze dissertations and journal articles on early childhood life education. The researcher explored the research themes of life education for young children aged 3 to 6 years in Taiwan and offered strategies for improving learning in early childhood life education. Eight categories of themes were examined. In addition, the curriculum development of learning in early childhood life education was identified: (1) life event core curriculum, (2) sympathy core curriculum, (3) example core curriculum, and (4) anima core curriculum. Several teaching approaches of learning in early childhood life education are proposed: (1) teaching through picture books, (2) learning through experience, (3) teaching through instructional media, (4) teaching through concept mapping, (5) teaching through stories, and (6) teaching through parent–teacher collaboration. Developing and implementing the strategies of learning in early childhood life education is crucial for cultivating psychological wellbeing in young children and improving the quality of Taiwan’s early childhood education system.
Neonatal Hyperglycemia and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Preterm Infants: A Review
Authors: Guiducci Silvia , Meggiolaro Leonardo , Righetto Anna , Piccoli Marco , Baraldi Eugenio , Galderisi Alfonso
Published: October 2022

Glucose impairment is common in preterm infants but the impact of early neonatal hyperglycemia on long term neurodevelopment is still highly controversial. This review reports current evidence of the effect of hyperglycemia on neurodevelopmental outcome. It was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. We searched MEDLINE via PubMed; EMBASE via Ovid; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; the Cochrane Library; ClinicalTrials.gov; and the World Health Organization’s International Trials Registry and Platform. We included studies that investigated the association between hyperglycemia, defined as at least one episode of glycemia ≥8 mmol/L, and neurodevelopment outcome evaluated either through the Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales (GMDS) or the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID) for the first 5 years of life, and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC) for the following age category. We selected six studies, comprising 2226 infants in total and which included 1059 (48%) infants for whom neurodevelopment assessment was available. We found an association between hyperglycemia and neurological delay in the first two years of life, especially for motor functions; this result was confirmed in later childhood. The quality of evidence was poor; therefore, the negative influence of neonatal hyperglycemia on the neurological development of preterm infants must be investigated in further studies.
Develop Control Architectures to Enhance Soft Actuator Motion and Force
Authors: Hassan Mustafa , Awad Mohammed Ibrahim , Maged Shady A.
Published: October 2022

Study: Soft robots can achieve the desired range of motion for finger movement to match their axis of rotation with the axis of rotation of the human hand. The iterative design has been used to achieve data that makes the movement smooth and the range of movement wider, and the validity of the design has been confirmed through practical experiments. Limitation: The challenges facing this research are to reach the most significant inclined angle and increase the force generated by the actuator, which is the most complicated matter while maintaining the desired control accuracy. The motion capture system verifies the actual movement of the soft pneumatic actuator (SPA). A tracking system has been developed for SPA in action by having sensors to know the position and strength of the SPA. Results: The novelty of this research is that it gave better control of soft robots by selecting the proportional, integral, and derivative (PID) controller. The parameters were tuned using three different methods: ZN (Ziegler Nichols Method), GA (Genetic Algorism), and PSO (Particle Swarm Optimization). The optimization techniques were used in Methods 2 and 3 in order to reach the nominal error rate (0.6) and minimum overshoot (0.1%) in the shortest time (2.5 s). Impact: The effect of the proposed system in this study is to provide precise control of the actuator, which helps in medical and industrial applications, the most important of which are the transfer of things from one place to another and the process of medical rehabilitation for patients with muscular dystrophy. A doctor who treats finger muscle insufficiency can monitor a patient’s ability to reach a greater angle of flexion or increase strength by developing three treatment modalities to boost strength: Full Assisted Movement (FAM), Half Assisted Movement (HAM), and Resistance Movement (RM).
Calcium Carbonate Crystallization on a Microalgal Matrix: The Effects of Heavy Metal Presence
Authors: Natsi Panagiota D. , Koutsoukos Petros G.
Published: October 2022

Microalgae and other microorganisms often play a significant role in the transportation of heavy metal ions in the environment, while at the same time they are closely related to the formation of minerals in aquatic systems, especially with the formation of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). The biomineralization of calcite was investigated in aqueous solutions, supersaturated with respect to calcium carbonate (7.94 < SRcalcite < 31.36) in the presence of heavy metals (Zn, Cd, Ni, Cu) and of colonies of Acutodesmus obliquus (A. obliquus). The presence of metals tested in the supersaturated solutions, at concentration levels below the threshold of precipitation of the respective hydroxides, reduced the rate of calcium carbonate precipitation by 40 to 90% depending on the solution supersaturation. The presence of A. obliquus culture increased the rates of calcium carbonate precipitation by 80%. The presence of the test metals inhibited the growth of A. obliquus, especially the presence of Cd. The uptake of the test metals on calcite fitted Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Cadmium uptake onto calcite reached 85% of the total amount in the solutions. Charged ion pairs of test metals play an important role in their activity with respect to calcium carbonate precipitation and algal growth.
Examining Health Disparities and Severity of Depression among Sexual Minorites in a National Population Sample
Authors: Sakharkar Prashant , Friday Kafi
Published: October 2022

Background: Health disparities and mental health issues have not been fully explored among sexual minorities. This study aims to examine health disparities and severity of depression among sexual minorities using a nationally representative sample of the US population. Methods: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 2011 to 2016 were analyzed. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to examine the severity of depression among sexual minorities compared to heterosexuals. Data were analyzed for descriptive statistics and associations using the Chi-squared test. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to quantify the magnitude of association between severity of depression and demographic characteristics. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among 7826 participants included, 426 (5.4%) were identified as a sexual minority. Moderately severe to severe depression was observed among 9.3% of sexual minorities with women having higher rates (64.2%) than men. Similarly, sexual minorities were two times more likely to have moderately severe to severe depression, two and half times more likely to see a mental health professional, and one and half times more likely to have genital herpes and be a user of illicit drugs than heterosexuals. In addition, they were less likely to be married and more likely to have been born in the United States, be a U.S. citizen, and earn less than USD 25,000 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Sexual minorities are affected by a range of social, structural, and behavioral issues impacting their health. The screening of individuals with depression who are sexual minorities (especially females), illicit drug users, poor, or aged over 39 years may benefit from early intervention efforts.
Doppler Broadening of Neutron Cross-Sections Using Kaniadakis Entropy
Authors: de Abreu Willian Vieira , Maciel João Márcio , Martinez Aquilino Senra , Gonçalves Alessandro da Cruz , Schmidt Lucas
Published: October 2022

In the last seven years, Kaniadakis statistics, or κ-statistics, have been applied in reactor physics to obtain generalized nuclear data, which can encompass, for instance, situations that lie outside thermal equilibrium. In this sense, numerical and analytical solutions were developed for the Doppler broadening function using the κ-statistics. However, the accuracy and robustness of the developed solutions contemplating the κ distribution can only be appropriately verified if applied inside an official nuclear data processing code to calculate neutron cross-sections. Hence, the present work inserts an analytical solution for the deformed Doppler broadening cross-section inside the nuclear data processing code FRENDY, developed by the Japan Atomic Energy Agency. To do that, we applied a new computational method called the Faddeeva package, developed by MIT, to calculate error functions present in the analytical function. With this deformed solution inserted in the code, we were able to calculate, for the first time, deformed radiative capture cross-section data for four different nuclides. The usage of the Faddeeva package brought more accurate results when compared to other standard packages, reducing the percentage errors in the tail zone in relation to the numerical solution. The deformed cross-section data agreed with the expected behavior compared to the Maxwell–Boltzmann.
Arrhythmia Classification and Diagnosis Based on ECG Signal: A Multi-Domain Collaborative Analysis and Decision Approach
Authors: Ruan Hongpeng , Dai Xueying , Chen Shengqi , Qiu Xiang
Published: October 2022

Electrocardiogram (ECG) signal plays a key role in the diagnosis of arrhythmia, which will pose a great threat to human health. As an effective feature extraction method, deep learning has shown excellent results in processing ECG signals. However, most of these methods neglect the cooperation between the multi-lead ECG series correlation and intra-series temporal patterns. In this work, a multi-domain collaborative analysis and decision approach is proposed, which makes the classification and diagnosis of arrhythmia more accurate. With this decision, we can realize the transition from the spatial domain to the spectral domain, and from the time domain to the frequency domain, and make it possible that ECG signals can be more clearly detected by convolution and sequential learning modules. Moreover, instead of the prior method, the self-attention mechanism is used to learn the relation matrix between the sequences automatically in this paper. We conduct extensive experiments on eight advanced models in the same field to demonstrate the effectiveness of our method.
Thermodynamic Analysis and Optimization Design of a Molten Salt–Supercritical CO2 Heat Exchanger
Authors: Dong Xiaoming , Zhang Cancan , Wu Yuting , Lu Yuanwei , Ma Chongfang
Published: October 2022

The performance of a heat exchanger is directly related to the energy conversion efficiency of the thermal storage system, and its optimal design is an important method to improve the performance of the heat exchanger. This paper uses the distributed parameter method to analyze the effect of the structural parameters and operating parameters of a heat exchanger on the entransy dissipation rate, the entransy dissipation number, the entransy dissipation heat resistance, entropy production rate, and entropy production number in a molten salt–supercritical CO2 concentric tube heat exchanger. The results show that the entransy dissipation rate and entropy production rate have the same trend, with the structural parameters and operating parameters, as well as the changes in the entransy dissipation number and entransy dissipation thermal resistance, jointly affected by the entransy dissipation rate and the heat exchange. Based on the above indicators, single-objective and multi-objective optimization calculations were carried out. The results show that taking the minimum entropy dissipation number, entransy dissipation heat resistance, and improved entropy production number as the objective functions, and using the heat transfer effectiveness as the evaluation index, the optimization effect is better. The ε value is increased by 41.2%, 39.5%, and 40.3% compared with the reference individual. In the multi-objective optimization, taking the minimum number of entransy dissipation and entropy production as the objective function, and using the efficiency of heat transfer and the pressure drop of the working fluid as the evaluation indicators, the optimization effect is better. Compared with the reference individual, the ε value increased by 23.5%, and ΔPh and ΔPc decreased by 51.9% and 32.5%, respectively. This study provides a reference for the optimization of supercritical CO2 heat exchangers by utilizing parameters such as entransy and entropy, which reflect the irreversible loss of the heat transfer process.
Progress of Performance, Emission, and Technical Measures of Hydrogen Fuel Internal-Combustion Engines
Authors: Gao Wenzhi , Fu Zhen , Li Yong , Li Yuhuai , Zou Jiahua
Published: October 2022

To achieve the goals of low carbon emission and carbon neutrality, some urgent challenges include the development and utilization of low-carbon or zero-carbon internal combustion engine fuels. Hydrogen, as a clean, efficient, and sustainable fuel, has the potential to meet the abovementioned challenges. Thereby, hydrogen internal combustion engines have been attracting attention because of their zero carbon emissions, high thermal efficiency, high reliability, and low cost. In this paper, the opportunities and challenges faced by hydrogen internal-combustion engines were analyzed. The progress of hydrogen internal-combustion engines on the mixture formation, combustion mode, emission reduction, knock formation mechanism, and knock suppression measures were summarized. Moreover, possible technical measures for hydrogen internal-combustion engines to achieve higher efficiency and lower emissions were suggested.
New Assessment Methods of Future Conditions for Main Vulnerabilities and Risks from Climate Change
Authors: Halkos George
Published: October 2022

The US National Climate Assessment, published in 2018, states that “Earth’s climate is now changing faster than at any point in the history of modern civilization, primarily as a result of human activities” [...]
Fractals Flow Simulation for Groundwater Flow with Varying Apertures by Using Analytic Element Method
Authors: Atta Maryam , Hussain Sardar Muhammad , Hussain Farooq , Shah Hasrat Hussain , Shah Hassan , Ro Jong-Suk
Published: October 2022

The work presented in this article is composed of 2-dimensional groundwater flow simulations for fractured porous media with different aperture of fractures by using the Analytic Element Method. In order to investigate the flow behavior and its effect on fractures, we considered different systems of fractures with varying apertures, hydraulic conductivities and orientations in the presence of uniform flow field and a well. We also introduced the matrix method to solve the problems for which the unknown coefficients are obtained from the discharge potential of all the elements present in the systems. The numerical solution of the prescribed problem is based on a series expansion, while the influence of each fracture is expressed in a series that satisfy Laplace’s equation.
Prediction Model of the Quality of Life for Patients with Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Lee Jisun
Published: October 2022

This study attempted to establish a predictive model that systematically and comprehensively predicts the quality of life (QoL) of patients with pancreatic cancer. The study used a descriptive cross-sectional design. A total of 248 patients was included who were selected via the convenience sampling method. A structured questionnaire was used and the collected data were analyzed for fitness, using the SPSS WIN 25.0 program and AMOS 24.0. The perceived health status of the patients with pancreatic cancer would directly affect their QoL and indirectly influence the QoL through social support, symptoms, functional status, and age. The application of social support intervention programs to relieve specific symptoms and improve the functional status according to the conditions of patients may contribute to improving the QoL of pancreatic cancer patients. This predictive model could be used as the basis for developing a nursing intervention plan and writing evaluation guidelines for practitioners who provide nursing care for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Effects of Augmented Reality Game-Based Cognitive–Motor Training on Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors and Executive Function in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Nekar Daekook M. , Lee Dong-Yeop , Hong Ji-Heon , Kim Jin-Seop , Kim Seong-Gil , Seo Yong-Gon , Yu Jae-Ho
Published: October 2022

Restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) and executive dysfunction are widely acknowledged as core features and hallmarks in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study aimed to investigate the effects of augmented reality (AR) using motivational games with cognitive–motor exercises on RRBs, executive function (EF), attention, and reaction time in patients with ASD. Twenty-four patients (range from 6 to 18 years) diagnosed with ASD were recruited from local social welfare centers and randomly allocated to the AR game-based cognitive–motor training group (study group) or the conventional cognitive training group (control group). Both groups completed 30 min training sessions, twice a week for four weeks. Outcome measures were conducted before and after the intervention. As a result, improvements were observed in all the subscales of the RRBs in the study group except for self-injurious and ritualistic behavior. Significant improvements were observed in EF and reaction time in the study group, which was significantly higher compared to the control group. With the present findings, we can suggest that cognitive–motor training using AR game-based content generates positive effects on improving executive function reaction time and accuracy of responses and has a limited effect on RRBs in patients with ASD. This can be proposed as a complementary intervention associated with individualized daily management.
Research on Emergency Response Policy for Public Health Emergencies in China—Based on Content Analysis of Policy Text and PMC-Index Model
Authors: Zhao Ying , Wu Lin
Published: October 2022

Policy is an important support for risk society to prevent and resolve crises. Based on the content analysis of the policy text and PMC-Index model, this paper takes texts of 327 public health emergency response policies (PHERP) at the central level in China from 1989 to 2022 as the analysis object, designs an indicator system, and combines qualitative and quantitative methods to evaluate the existing policies. The results of content analysis indicate that current policy focuses on emergency rather than preventive control, the main policy-making and issuing authority is the Ministry of Health and policies are mostly issued in the form of notice. The PMC-Index of ten selected policies is all ranked above acceptable, which means that the overall quality of policy text is relatively high. However, the PMC-Surface shows that there is still considerable variability in the scores of the main indicators for each policy. The top three main scoring indicators are policy nature, policy evaluation and policy instrument, while the bottom three are policy time, policy release agency and policy target groups, which reminds us that the design of policy text can still be improved in terms of optimizing policy time, policy issuing institutions and expanding policy target groups. In response to these problems, this paper puts forward six suggestions for optimization.
Multiscale Characteristics and Drivers of the Bundles of Ecosystem Service Budgets in the Su-Xi-Chang Region, China
Authors: Wang Yue , Fu Qi , Wang Tinghui , Gao Mengfan , Chen Jinhua
Published: October 2022

Managing ecosystem services (ESs) to meet human needs is critical to achieving sustainable development in rapidly urbanizing regions. Identifying ES budget bundles and analyzing their drivers at a multiscale level can facilitate management decision-making; however, further research is required in areas undergoing rapid urbanization. This study quantified the supply, demand, and budgets of six typical ESs at the county, township, and village scales in the Su-Xi-Chang region in 2020. Additionally, the influence of natural environmental and socioeconomic factors on ES budget bundles was investigated based on K-means cluster analysis and the Geodetector model. The results showed that ESs on all three scales showed a mismatch between supply and demand. The similarity in the spatial pattern of supply, demand, and budgets of ESs at the township and village scales was higher than that at the township and county scales. The location and area of surplus, balance, and deficit varied with scale. We found that population density and the proportion of impervious surfaces are the main factors influencing the formation of the ES budget bundles at different scales. In addition, the diversity and degree of interpretation of drivers varied with scale. We believe that focusing on the overall situation on a large scale and implementing precise management on a small scale can make management decisions more effective. This study can provide a scientific basis for the sustainable utilization of ESs in the Su-Xi-Chang region, and the research results and methods can provide a reference for similar studies in other rapidly urbanizing areas in the world.
Burnout in Intensive Care Nurses during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review on Its Prevalence and Risk and Protective Factors
Authors: Toscano Ferdinando , Tommasi Francesco , Giusino Davide
Published: October 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has strained hospitals and healthcare workers engaged in combating the virus with limited knowledge and resources. Intensive care unit (ICU) nurses are among the healthcare workers most affected by the pandemic and are at risk for developing burnout syndrome. Objective: The present study aims to explore burnout symptoms prevalence among ICU nurses and to identify the individual, organizational, and contextual risk, and protective factors of burnout in ICU nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A scoping review was conducted by searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Only papers with empirical data and referred to ICU nurses were included. A total of 350 initial results were yielded, and 40 full texts were screened. Twelve papers constituted the final sample in the analysis. Results: High levels of symptoms of burnout (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment) were registered among ICU nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased workload, lack of equipment, social stigma, and fear of contagion emerged as key risk factors. Social support from leaders and colleagues, professional recognition, use of personal protective tools, and witnessing patients’ successful recovery emerged as major protective factors. Conclusions: The results may inform the development of timely actions to counter burnout in ICU nurses during this COVID-19 pandemic and in a post-COVID-19 scenario.
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Efficacy in Arresting Cavitated Caries Lesions in Primary Molars: A Systematic Review and Metanalysis
Authors: Zaffarano Luciano , Salerno Claudia , Campus Guglielmo , Cirio Silvia , Balian Araxi , Karanxha Lorena , Cagetti Maria Grazia
Published: October 2022

A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out to evaluate the efficacy of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in controlling caries progression in cavitated primary molars. A search for randomized and non-randomized trials with follow-up > 6 months was performed using PubMed, Scopus and Embase. The Cochrane risk of bias tools were used for the quality assessment. The success rate and odds ratios were chosen to calculate the effect size for the meta-analysis. A total of 792 papers were identified and 9 were selected. A high variability regarding SDF application protocol was found; otherwise, caries arrest was always recorded using visual/tactile methods. Two studies were judged at low risk of bias, six at moderate risk and one at high risk. Data from five studies were aggregated for meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was found moderate (I2 = 35.69%, p = 0.18). SDF application was found to be overall effective (fixed effect model) in arresting caries progression (ES = 0.35, p < 0.01). In a total of 622 arrested lesions, out of 1205 considered, the caries arrest rate was 51.62% ± 27.40% (Confidence = 1.55) using SDF ≥ 38% applied annually or biannually. In conclusion, when applied to active cavitated caries lesions in primary molars, SDF appears to be effective in arresting dental caries progression, especially if applied biannually.
Attention Given to Victims of Gender Violence from the Perspective of Nurses: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ruiz-Fernández María Dolores , Ortiz-Amo Rocío , Alcaraz-Córdoba Andrea , Rodríguez-Bonilla Héctor Alejandro , Hernández-Padilla José Manuel , Fernández-Medina Isabel María , Ventura-Miranda María Isabel
Published: October 2022

Women victims of gender violence consider the health system an appropriate place to seek help. Aims and Objectives: to describe and understand how nurses perceive gender-based violence in health care for women victims of gender-based violence. Qualitative descriptive study. The recommendations of the COREQ guide for qualitative research reporting were followed. Sixteen nurses who were working in different health services, both primary and specialized care, were selected to take part in the study. Three focus groups and a semi-structured interview were conducted. The ATLAS.ti 9 computer programme was used. The nurses highlighted that when caring for women who are victims of gender violence, they encounter two types of violence: invisible or latent, and visible or patent. Part of the nurses’ role is based on the skill of knowing how to act and being trained to do so. In addition, there are certain controversies around the concept and origin of violence. On the one hand, they refer to gender violence as a universal phenomenon with strong cultural and educational roots, and, on the other hand, it is difficult to characterize. The findings report how nurses play a fundamental role in caring for victims of gender-based violence, but they encounter certain difficulties regarding this concept. It is therefore essential to continuously train and educate nurses on gender-based violence. Gender violence should be a competency in nursing curricula. Health systems must offer training and awareness programmes that teach nurses to detect and make decisions regarding female victims of gender violence. It is also necessary to set up spaces in the different services so that the nurses can attend to the victims.
Quadriceps Electromyographic Activity in Closed and Open Kinetic-Chain Exercises with Hip-Adductor Co-Contraction in Sedentary Women
Authors: Thongduang Parinyathip , Chatchawan Uraiwan , Puntumetakul Rungthip , Yamauchi Junichiro , Peungsuwan Punnee
Published: October 2022

Background: Different closed and open kinetic-chain exercises with hip-adductor co-contraction have different effects on quadriceps activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the difference in quadriceps activity during the squat (SQ) and knee extension (KE) and straight leg raise (SLR) exercises with and without hip adduction in sedentary women. Methods: Twenty-eight sedentary women aged 44.5 ± 8.5 years were recruited. They performed three exercises with and without hip adduction. Surface electromyography (sEMG) activity was measured on the rectus femoris (RF), vastus medialis oblique (VMO) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscles. The levels of sEMG activities of the three muscles were compared among the six exercises using a repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: The findings showed that RF activity was lowest during the SQ alone and highest during the SLR exercise (p < 0.05 to 0.001). The VMO activity was significantly greater in the SQH than in the five types of exercises (p < 0.05 to 0.001), which led to a significant VMO/VL ratio as well. VL activity increased while the squat with hip adduction and knee extension with hip adduction exercise compared with SQ alone. Conclusion: This study indicates that a closed-chain squat with hip co-contraction can produce the VMO and VMO/VL ratio activity, while an open chain of SLR better activates the RF activity. The findings support the understanding of quadriceps activity in different exercises to be an alternative home-based exercise for physical therapy in women facing muscle weakness.
A Qualitative Assessment of Place and Mental Health: Perspectives of Young Women Ages 18–24 Living in the Urban Slums of Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Swahn Monica H. , Nassaka Jacqueline , Nabulya Anna , Palmier Jane , Vaught Seneca
Published: October 2022

This paper examines the link between place and mental health using a qualitative assessment and focus group discussion with young women, ages 18 to 24 years of age, residing in three slums in Kampala, Uganda. The assessment, conducted in August of 2022, engaged 15 women who participated in Uganda Youth Development Drop-in center activities. The objective was to assess mental health and the link between place and mental health. Facilitated group discussions and photograph review yielded the following results. In terms of understanding their views of mental health and wellbeing, participants clearly focused on feelings. However, they also assessed resilience, the environment and a person’s choice as relating to their mental health. Participants also found the physical spaces related to sports, education, worship, workplaces and green space to be linked to happiness. In terms of the attributes that were linked to sadness, participants listed the physical locations where drugs are sold, clubs for dancing and partying and also sanitation issues in the community. Participants frequently reported on the social environment and reflected on harassment, discrimination, alcohol use and criminal behavior that did not reflect a specific physical space, but rather the embedded social interactions they may face or observe by living in close proximity to hotspots for criminal activity. Given the dire shortages of mental health services and care that are available in this setting, a better understanding of young women’s perceptions of place and mental health will be key for low-cost interventions and strategies to mitigate the contextual factors that may exacerbate mental illness.
Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Ecological Connectivity in the Ethnic Areas, Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Guo Shili , Deng Xian , Ran Jiaxuan , Ding Xiangyu
Published: October 2022

With ongoing economic and social development, natural habitats are becoming increasingly fragmented, blocking habitat connections and reducing landscape connectivity. The study of changes in ecological connectivity can provide valuable information for habitat and landscape restoration, which are necessary for sustainable regional development. Despite the growing interest in this issue, studies that reveal the change in ecological connectivity in the compounded areas of ecological vulnerability and deep poverty are still lacking. In this paper, one of the most underdeveloped and ecologically fragile southwestern ethnic regions of China, the Sanzhou region of Sichuan Province, was the study area. Based on a vector map of current land-use status and vector data on ecosystem factors and nature reserves in 2010 and 2015, the change in ecological connectivity was analyzed using the minimum cumulative resistance model using GIS spatial analysis method. Firstly, ecological sources were identified based on the distribution of ecological functional areas. Secondly, the ecological resistance surface based on ecosystem service value is revised by integrating the three dimensions of topography and hydrology, ecological environment and development, and utilization intensity. Finally, the ecological connectivity of ethnic areas in southwest China in 2010 and 2015 was compared and analyzed through the perspective of ecological resistance. The results show that: (1) From 2010 to 2015, the overall ecological connectivity decreased. (2) There were six areas of high ecological resistance featuring human activity and ecological degradation: the Anning River Valley in Liangshan Prefecture, Ganzi, Dege and Luho counties in Ganzi Prefecture, and Ruoergai and Hongyuan counties in Aba Prefecture. (3) Low ecological resistance areas were more numerous and widely distributed, forming an ecological protection barrier for the three autonomous prefectures, and regulating and protecting their natural environments. It is necessary to maintain and strengthen this protection; accordingly, measures are proposed to improve ecological connectivity. This study provides a reference for achieving ecological security and harmonious coexistence between humans and nature in this region.
Resveratrol Improves the Digestive Ability and the Intestinal Health of Siberian Sturgeon
Authors: Yang Shiyong , Xu Wenqiang , Feng Langkun , Zhang Chaoyang , Yan Chaozhan , Zhang Jiajin , Lai Jiansheng , Yan Taiming , He Zhi , Du Xiaogang , Du Zongjun , Luo Wei , Huang Xiaoli , Wu Jiayun , Li Yunkun
Published: October 2022

The lack of detailed information on nutritional requirement results in limited feeding in Siberian sturgeon. In this study, resveratrol, a versatile natural extract, was supplemented in the daily diet, and the digestive ability and microbiome were evaluated in the duodena and valvular intestines of Siberian sturgeon. The results showed that resveratrol increased the activity of pepsin, α-amylase, and lipase, which was positively associated with an increase in the digestive ability, but it did not influence the final body weight. Resveratrol improved the digestive ability probably by distinctly enhancing intestinal villus height. Microbiome analysis revealed that resveratrol changed the abundance and composition of the microbial community in the intestine, principally in the duodenum. Random forests analysis found that resveratrol significantly downregulated the abundance of potential pathogens (Citrobacter freundii, Vibrio rumoiensis, and Brucella melitensis), suggesting that resveratrol may also improve intestinal health. In summary, our study revealed that resveratrol improved digestive ability and intestinal health, which can contribute to the development of functional feed in Siberian sturgeon.
A Comparison of the Flavonoid Biosynthesis Mechanisms of Dendrobium Species by Analyzing the Transcriptome and Metabolome
Authors: Liu Sian , Zhang Hanyue , Yuan Yingdan
Published: October 2022

Dendrobium huoshanense, Dendrobium officinale, and Dendrobium moniliforme, as precious Chinese medicinal materials, have a variety of medicinal properties. Flavonoids are important medicinal components of Dendrobium, but their accumulation rules and biosynthesis mechanisms remain unclear. To explore the similarities and differences of flavonoid accumulation and biosynthesis in these three Dendrobium species, we performed flavonoid content determination, widely-targeted metabolomics and transcriptome sequencing on 1–4 years old Dendrobium species. The results showed that in different growth years, D. huoshanense stems had the highest flavonoid content in the second year of growth, while D. officinale and D. moniliforme stems had the highest flavonoid content in the third year of growth. A total of 644 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) and 10,426 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis. It was found that DAMs and DEGs were not only enriched in the general pathway of “flavonoid biosynthesis”, but also in multiple sub-pathways such as “Flavone biosynthesis”, and “Flavonol biosynthesis” and “Isoflavonoid biosynthesis”. According to a combined transcriptome and metabolome analysis, the expression levels of the F3′H gene (LOC110096779) and two F3′5′H genes (LOC110101765 and LOC110103762) may be the main genes responsible for the differences in flavonoid accumulation. As a result of this study, we have not only determined the optimal harvesting period for three Dendrobium plants, but also identified the key genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis and provided a basis for further study of the molecular mechanism of flavonoid synthesis.
Selective Ligands for Non-Canonical DNA Structures: Do They Have a Future in Medicinal Chemistry?
Authors: Palumbo Manlio , Sissi Claudia
Published: October 2022

Winning the war against cancer represents a major goal currently [...]