bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delivering maternal and neonatal health interventions in conflict settings: a systematic review
Authors: Munyuzangabo Mariella , Gaffey Michelle F , Khalifa Dina S , Als Daina , Ataullahjan Anushka , Kamali Mahdis , Jain Reena P , Meteke Sarah , Radhakrishnan Amruta , Shah Shailja , Siddiqui Fahad J , Bhutta Zulfiqar A
Published: February 2021

Background

While much progress was made throughout the Millennium Development Goals era in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, both remain unacceptably high, especially in areas affected by humanitarian crises. While valuable guidance on interventions to improve maternal and neonatal health in both non-crisis and crisis settings exists, guidance on how best to deliver these interventions in crisis settings, and especially in conflict settings, is still limited. This systematic review aimed to synthesise the available literature on the delivery on maternal and neonatal health interventions in conflict settings.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO databases using terms related to conflict, women and children, and maternal and neonatal health. We searched websites of 10 humanitarian organisations for relevant grey literature. Publications reporting on conflict-affected populations in low-income and middle-income countries and describing a maternal or neonatal health intervention delivered during or within 5 years after the end of a conflict were included. Information on population, intervention, and delivery characteristics were extracted and narratively synthesised. Quantitative data on intervention coverage and effectiveness were tabulated but no meta-analysis was undertaken.

Results

115 publications met our eligibility criteria. Intervention delivery was most frequently reported in the sub-Saharan Africa region, and most publications focused on displaced populations based in camps. Reported maternal interventions targeted antenatal, obstetric and postnatal care; neonatal interventions focused mostly on essential newborn care. Most interventions were delivered in hospitals and clinics, by doctors and nurses, and were mostly delivered through non-governmental organisations or the existing healthcare system. Delivery barriers included insecurity, lack of resources and lack of skilled health staff. Multi-stakeholder collaboration, the introduction of new technology or systems innovations, and staff training were delivery facilitators. Reporting of intervention coverage or effectiveness data was limited.

Discussion

The relevant existing literature focuses mostly on maternal health especially around the antenatal period. There is still limited literature on postnatal care in conflict settings and even less on newborn care. In crisis settings, as much as in non-crisis settings, there is a need to focus on the first day of birth for both maternal and neonatal health. There is also a need to do more research on how best to involve community members in the delivery of maternal and neonatal health interventions.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019125221.
Cardiac reserve by 6-minute walk stress echocardiography in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Arase Miharu , Kusunose Kenya , Morita Sae , Yamaguchi Natsumi , Hirata Yukina , Nishio Susumu , Okushi Yuichiro , Ise Takayuki , Tobiume Takeshi , Yamaguchi Koji , Fukuda Daiju , Yagi Shusuke , Yamada Hirotsugu , Soeki Takeshi , Wakatsuki Tetsuzo , Sata Masataka
Published: February 2021

Objectives

There is a high prevalence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) which is associated with high mortality. Thus, early detection of LVDD could be important in management of SSc. We hypothesised that exercise echocardiography in SSc patients with normal resting haemodynamics may expose early phase LVDD, which could affect its prognosis, defined as cardiovascular death and unplanned hospitalisation for heart failure.

Methods

Between January 2014 and December 2018, we prospectively enrolled 140 patients with SSc who underwent 6-minute walk (6MW) stress echocardiographic studies with normal range of estimated mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) (<25 mm Hg) and mean pulmonary artery wedge pressure (mPAWP) (<15 mm Hg) at rest. We used ΔmPAP/Δcardiac output (CO) to assess pulmonary vascular reserve and ΔmPAWP/ΔCO to assess LV cardiac reserve between resting and post-6MW.

Results

During a median period of 3.6 years (IQR 2.0–5.1 years), 25 patients (18%) reached the composite outcome. Both ΔmPAP/ΔCO and ΔmPAWP/ΔCO in patients with events were significantly greater than in those without events (8.9±3.8 mm Hg/L/min vs 3.0±1.7 mm Hg/L/min; p=0.002, and 2.2±0.9 mm Hg/L/min vs 0.9±0.5 mm Hg/L/min; p<0.001, respectively). Patients with both impaired LV cardiac reserve (ΔmPAWP/ΔCO>1.4 mm Hg/L/min) and impaired pulmonary vascular reserve (ΔmPAP/ΔCO>3.0 mm Hg/L/min) had worse outcomes compared with those without these abnormalities (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The 6MW stress echocardiography revealed impaired LV cardiac reserve in SSc patients with normal resting haemodynamics. Furthermore, LV cardiac reserve independently associates with clinical worsening in SSc, providing incremental prognostic utility, in addition to pulmonary vascular parameters.
Modeling of traversable wormholes in exponential f(R, T) gravity
Authors: Chawla Chanchal , Dixit Archana , Pradhan Anirudh
Published: February 2021

In the present communication, we have studied the existence of wormholes described by a logarithmic shape function, in the exponential f(R, T) gravity given by f(R, T) = R + 2ξeζt where ξ and ζ are arbitrary constants, under three different sets of physical constraints. The logarithmic shape function is well behaved, satisfying all the necessary constraints for traversable and asymptotically flat wormholes. The obtained wormhole solutions are analyzed from the energy conditions for different values of involved physical constants. It has been observed that our proposed shape function for the exponential form of f(R, T) gravity represents the existence of exotic matter with a standard violation of the NEC. Moreover, for the trace T = 0, for the general relativity case with R being replaced by R + 2, the wormhole geometry has been analyzed to prove the existence of exotic matter. Further, the behaviour of physical parameters, such as the energy density ρ, the trace T, and anisotropy parameter Δ, describing the geometry of the universe has been presented with the help of graphs.
Weyssenhoff fluid sphere models in Einstein–Cartan theory
Authors: Katkar L.N. , Phadatare D.R.
Published: February 2021

We obtain three models for geodesic flows and three models for non-geodesic flows of Weyssenhoff fluid considering it as the source of gravitation and spin in the Einstein–Cartan field equations. Influence of spin on the pressure, density, equation of state, and the kinematical parameters is observed in both geodesic and non-geodesic models.
DsixTools 2.0: the effective field theory toolkit
Authors: Fuentes-Martín Javier , Ruiz-Femenía Pedro , Vicente Avelino , Virto Javier
Published: February 2021

is a package for the handling of the standard model effective field theory (SMEFT) and the low-energy effective field theory (LEFT) with operators up to dimension six, both at the algebraic and numerical level. contains a visually accessible and operationally convenient repository of all operators and parameters of the SMEFT and the LEFT. This repository also provides information concerning symmetry categories and number of degrees of freedom, and routines that allow to implement this information on global expressions (such as decay amplitudes and cross-sections). also performs weak basis transformations, and implements the full one-loop Renormalization Group Evolution in both EFTs (with SM beta functions up to five loops in QCD), and the full one-loop SMEFT-LEFT matching at the electroweak scale.
C-parameter hadronisation in the symmetric 3-jet limit and impact on $$\alpha _s$$ fits
Authors: Luisoni Gionata , Monni Pier Francesco , Salam Gavin P.
Published: February 2021

Hadronisation corrections are crucial in extractions of the strong coupling constant ($$\alpha _s$$

α
s

) from event-shape distributions at lepton colliders. Although their dynamics cannot be understood rigorously using perturbative methods, their dominant effect on physical observables can be estimated in singular configurations sensitive to the emission of soft radiation. The differential distributions of some event-shape variables, notably the C parameter, feature two such singular points. We analytically compute the leading non-perturbative correction in the symmetric three-jet limit for the C parameter, and find that it differs by more than a factor of two from the known result in the two-jet limit. We estimate the impact of this result on strong coupling extractions, considering a range of functions to interpolate the hadronisation correction in the region between the 2 and 3-jet limits. Fitting data from ALEPH and JADE, we find that most interpolation choices increase the extracted $$\alpha _{s}$$

α
s

, with effects of up to $$4\%$$

4
%

relative to standard fits. This brings a new perspective on the long-standing discrepancy between certain event-shape $$\alpha _s$$

α
s

fits and the world average.
Semileptonic decay of $$\varOmega _c^0 \rightarrow \varXi ^- l^+ \nu _l$$ from light-cone sum rules
Authors: Duan Hui-Hui , Liu Yong-Lu , Huang Ming-Qiu
Published: February 2021

The weak decay process of $$\varOmega _c$$

Ω
c

to $$\varXi $$
Ξ
is calculated in the method of QCD light-cone sum rule. The decay width of $$\varOmega _c^0 \rightarrow \varXi ^- l^+ \nu _l$$

Ω
c
0

→

Ξ
-

l
+

ν
l

and its decay branching ratio are also calculated with the form factors from this work’s calculation. To the twist-6 distribution amplitudes, the form factors $$f_1=0.66\pm 0.02, f_2=-0.76\pm 0.03, g_1=0.06\pm 0.01$$

f
1

=
0.66
±
0.02
,

f
2

=
-
0.76
±
0.03
,

g
1

=
0.06
±
0.01

and $$g_2=-0.44\pm 0.01$$

g
2

=
-
0.44
±
0.01

are given at zero recoil point. The result of the semileptonic decay width of $$\varOmega _c^0 \rightarrow \varXi ^-l^+\nu _l$$

Ω
c
0

→

Ξ
-

l
+

ν
l

is $$\varGamma =(7.51\pm 0.36)\times 10^{-15}~\mathrm{{GeV}}$$

Γ
=

(
7.51
±
0.36
)

×

10

-
15

GeV

, and the prediction of the decay branching ratio $$Br(\varOmega _c^0\rightarrow \varXi ^-l^+\nu _l)=(3.06\pm 0.15)\times 10^{-3}$$

B
r

(

Ω
c
0

→

Ξ
-

l
+

ν
l

)

=

(
3.06
±
0.15
)

×

10

-
3

. These results fit well with other works, and the decay width and branching ratio are improved. This not too small branching ratio gives a good direction to explore this decay channel in the future experiments.
Model eye tool for retinal optical coherence tomography instrument calibration
Authors: Wang Hongting , Liu Wenli , Hu Zhixiong , Li Xiuyu , Li Fei , Duan Liangcheng
Published: February 2021

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been extensively used as noninvasive tool for biological tissues owing to its three-dimensional imaging ability and high axial resolution. OCT quality assurance is vital in these occasions to keep the reliability and accuracy in medical diagnosis. It is necessary to develop a calibration tool for OCT product manufacture, calibration, and quality control. A practical tool is demanded in the OCT quality control and calibration of OCT. So far, there is no such a practical tool that can test all the key parameters of OCT. We design and fabricate a model eye tool, which has this function. The model eye comprises a doublet lens, a single filament, a piece of glass plate and the microsphere-embedded phantom. The doublets lens is bonded by two pieces of planoconvex lenses in the plane position. The first lens focuses parallel light onto the rear surface of the second lens. The rear surface marked with concentric circles serves as retina to measure the angular field of view (FOV). The small flat surface on the peak of the second lens is used to test signal to noise ratio (SNR). The single filament with 125[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m diameter is used to check the co-alignment of preview and OCT scan. The empty chamber between the small plane of the second lens and the first surface of glass plate is used to measure the depth scaling of the OCT. The microspheres of 1[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m diameter distributed uniformly in the phantom, which can test the lateral and the axial resolution of OCT equipment. Experimental results are presented to show the validity of the proposed tool. It is shown that the tool is able to be used in the calibration and quality control of retinal OCT.
Chapter 2.1b Ferrar Large Igneous Province: petrology
Authors: Elliot David H. , Fleming Thomas. H.
Published: February 2021

The Lower Jurassic Ferrar Large Igneous Province consists predominantly of intrusive rocks, which crop out over a distance of 3500 km. In comparison, extrusive rocks are more restricted geographically. Geochemically, the province is divided into the Mount Fazio Chemical Type, forming more than 99% of the exposed province, and the Scarab Peak Chemical Type, which in the Ross Sea sector is restricted to the uppermost lava. The former exhibits a range of compositions (SiO
2
= 52–59%; MgO = 9.2–2.6%; Zr = 60–175 ppm; Sr
i
= 0.7081–0.7138;
ε
Nd
= −6.0 to −3.8), whereas the latter has a restricted composition (SiO
2
=
c.
58%; MgO =
c.
2.3%; Zr =
c.
230 ppm; Sr
i
= 0.7090–0.7097;
ε
Nd
= −4.4 to −4.1). Both chemical types are characterized by enriched initial isotope compositions of neodymium and strontium, low abundances of high field strength elements, and crust-like trace element patterns. The most basic rocks, olivine-bearing dolerites, indicate that these geochemical characteristics were inherited from a mantle source modified by subduction processes, possibly the incorporation of sediment. In one model, magmas were derived from a linear source having multiple sites of generation each of which evolved to yield, in sum, the province-wide coherent geochemistry. The preferred interpretation is that the remarkably coherent geochemistry and short duration of emplacement demonstrate derivation from a single source inferred to have been located in the proto-Weddell Sea region. The spatial variation in geochemical characteristics of the lavas suggests distinct magma batches erupted at the surface, whereas no clear geographical pattern is evident for intrusive rocks.
Gravity, magnetics and geothermal heat flow of the Antarctic lithospheric crust and mantle
Authors: Pappa Folker , Ebbing Jörg
Published: February 2021

This chapter describes the application and coverage of gravity and magnetic data for Antarctica with emphasis on airborne and satellite models. Low resolution satellite data help to fill gaps between high-resolution airborne data. Satellite gravity data are best used to study broad-scale lithospheric architecture while airborne data, especially magnetic data, provide finer detail. We review examples of gravity and magnetic analysis and describe the possibilities and pitfalls for estimating the properties of the lithosphere as it relates to the mantle. This is followed by a discussion on geothermal heat flow and possible ways to combine different geophysical and petrological models for a better understanding of the Antarctic mantle.
Long-term electronic cigarette exposure induces cardiovascular dysfunction similar to tobacco cigarettes: role of nicotine and exposure duration
Authors: El-Mahdy Mohamed A. , Mahgoup Elsayed M. , Ewees Mohamed G. , Eid Mahmoud S. , Abdelghany Tamer M. , Zweier Jay L.
Published: February 2021

A chronic mouse exposure model that mimics human e-cigarette vaping and allows comparison with tobacco cigarette smoking was developed and utilized to perform longitudinal studies of alterations in cardiovascular function. E-cigarette exposure led to the onset of cardiovascular disease similar to that with tobacco cigarette smoking. Impaired endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vasodilation with increased adrenergic vasoconstriction were observed, paralleling the onset of systemic hypertension and subsequent cardiac hypertrophy. This cardiovascular toxicity was dependent on exposure duration and nicotine dose.
Hepatoprotection of Lycii Fructus Polysaccharide against Oxidative Stress in Hepatocytes and Larval Zebrafish
Authors: Zhang Fang , Zhang Xia , Gu Yutian , Wang Min , Guo Sheng , Liu Jiazheng , Zhang Xiaofei , Zhao Zihan , Qian Bowen , Yan Yichao , Yu Li , Xu Chunlei , Liu Chunmei , Cao Funing , Qian Dawei , Duan Jin-ao
Published: February 2021

Scavenging of oxidative stress by antioxidants may provide a therapeutic strategy for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Increasing evidence is supporting the potential application of natural resourced polysaccharides as promising prevention or treatment strategies against NAFLD. In the current study, an acidic heteropolysaccharide, LFP‐a1, was isolated and purified from Lycii fructus with successively hot water refluxing extraction, alcohol precipitation, protein removal, and DEAE‐52 cellulose chromatographic separation. LFP‐a1 was a complicated structured polysaccharide with an average MW of 4.74 × 104 Da and composed of 6 monosaccharides and 1 uronic acid. Preexposure of LFP‐a1 could increase the cell viability and reverse the abnormal oxidative stress though inhibition of mitochondrial‐mediated apoptotic pathway and correction of cell cycle progression against H2O2 hepatoxicity in NAFLD model L02 cells. Consistently, in vivo study in thioacetamide‐ (TAA‐) induced NAFLD model zebrafish larvae showed LFP‐a1 preserved the liver integrity and alleviated TAA‐induced oxidative stress through downregulation of abnormal apoptosis. These observations indicated the hepatoprotective activity of LFP‐a1, which may be applied for the prevention or treatment of NAFLD or other oxidative stress‐related diseases.
Pedestrian Crash Exposure Analysis Using Alternative Geographically Weighted Regression Models
Authors: Almasi Seyed Ahmad , Behnood Hamid Reza , Arvin Ramin
Published: February 2021

In order to develop a sustainable, safe, and dynamic transportation system, proper attention must be paid to the safety of pedestrians. The purpose of this study is to analyze the surrogate measures related to pedestrian crash exposure in urban roads, including the use of sociodemographic characteristics, land use, and geometric characteristics of the network. This study develops pedestrian exposure models using geographical spatial models including geographically weighted regression (GWR), geographically weighted Poisson regression (GWPR), and geographically weighted Gaussian regression (GWGR). In general, the results of the GWPR model show that the presence of a bus station, population density, type of residential use, average number of lanes, number of traffic control cameras, and sidewalk width are negatively associated with increasing the number of crashes. In this study, in order to identify traffic analysis zones (TAZ) based on the observed and predicted crash data, spatial distance-based methods using GWPR outputs have been used. This study shows the dispersion and density of pedestrian crashes without possessing the volume of pedestrians. Comparison of the performance of GWPR and Poisson models shows a significant spatial heterogeneity in the analysis.
Numerical Solution for Third-Order Two-Point Boundary Value Problems with the Barycentric Rational Interpolation Collocation Method
Authors: Ge Qian , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: February 2021

The numerical solution for a kind of third-order boundary value problems is discussed. With the barycentric rational interpolation collocation method, the matrix form of the third-order two-point boundary value problem is obtained, and the convergence and error analysis are obtained. In addition, some numerical examples are reported to confirm the theoretical analysis.
The Magnitude of Neonatal Mortality and Its Predictors in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Aynalem Yared Asmare , Shiferaw Wondimeneh Shibabaw , Akalu Tadesse Yirga , Dargie Abate , Assefa Hilina Ketema , Habtewold Tesfa Dejenie
Published: February 2021

Background. Although neonatal death is a global burden, it is the highest in sub-Saharan African countries such as Ethiopia. Moreover, there is disparity in the prevalence and associated factors of studies. Therefore, this study was aimed at providing pooled national prevalence and predictors of neonatal mortality in Ethiopia. Methods. The following databases were systematically explored to search for articles: Boolean operator, Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Hinari, and Google Scholar. Selection, screening, reviewing, and data extraction were done by two reviewers independently using Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Joanna Briggs Institute Prevalence Critical Appraisal tools were used to assess the quality of evidence. All studies conducted in Ethiopia and reporting the prevalence and predictors of neonatal mortality were included. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel spreadsheet software and imported into Stata version 14s for further analysis. Publication bias was checked using funnel plots and Egger’s and Begg’s tests. Heterogeneity was also checked by Higgins’s method. A random effects meta-analysis model with 95% confidence interval was computed to estimate the pooled effect size (i.e., prevalence and odds ratio). Moreover, subgroup analysis based on region, sample size, and study design was done. Results. After reviewing 88 studies, 12 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled national prevalence of neonatal mortality in Ethiopia was 16.3% (95% CI: 12.1, 20.6,

I

2

=
98.8
%

). The subgroup analysis indicated that the highest prevalence was observed in the Amhara region, 20.3% (95% CI: 9.6, 31.1), followed by Oromia, 18.8% (95% CI: 11.9, 49.4). Gestational age [AOR: 1.32 (95% CI: 1.07, 1.58)], neonatal sepsis [AOR: 1.23 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.4)], respiratory distress syndromes (RDS) [AOR: 1.18 (95% CI: 0.87, 1.49)], and place of residency [AOR: 1.93 (95% CI: 1.13, 2.73)] were the most important predictors. Conclusions. Neonatal mortality in Ethiopia was significantly decreased. There was evidence that neonatal sepsis, gestational age, and place of residency were the significant predictors. RDS were also a main predictor of mortality even if not statistically significant. We strongly recommended that health care workers should give a priority for preterm neonates with diagnosis with sepsis and RDS.
Body Mass Index and Its Change from Adolescence to Adulthood Are Closely Related to the Risk of Adult Metabolic Syndrome in China
Authors: Liu Bingyang , Li Yue , Guo Jiamei , Fan Yuting , Li Ling , Li Ping
Published: February 2021

Aims. To investigate the influence of body mass index (BMI) and its change from adolescence to adulthood (ΔBMI) on the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in early adulthood. Methods. We selected 931 students from 12 to 16 years of age in Liaoyang City, China. Ninety-three participants from 18 to 22 years of age with complete baseline data were available for follow-up after 5 years. Statistical analysis determined the relationship of MetS at follow-up with baseline BMI (BMIb), ΔBMI, and follow-up BMI (BMIf). Results. ΔBMI was positively correlated with the change of waist circumference (ΔWC), systolic blood pressure (ΔSBP), triglycerides (ΔTG), uric acid, and glycosylated hemoglobin (ΔHbA1c) in follow-up (

p
<
0.05

). For every 1 kg/m2 increase in BMIb, ΔBMI, and BMIf, the risk of MetS at follow-up increased 1.201-fold, 1.406-fold, and 1.579-fold, respectively. Both BMIb and ΔBMI were predictive of MetS at follow-up, with prediction thresholds of 23.47 kg/m2 and 1.95 kg/m2. The participants were divided by the predicted BMIb and ΔBMI threshold values into four study groups. Interestingly, the group with lower BMI but a higher increase in BMI presented the same metabolic derangements and Mets% of the group with higher BMI but lower Δ BMI. Conclusion. Both BMI of adolescence and ΔBMI were predictive of MetS and cardiovascular risk factors in adulthood. Control of both variables in adolescents would be more effective in decreasing the risk of MetS in young adults than control of BMI alone.
HCV Eradication in Primary or Secondary Prevention Optimizes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Curative Management
Authors: Nahon Pierre , Layese Richard , Cagnot Carole , Asselah Tarik , Guyader Dominique , Pol Stanislas , Pageaux Georges-Philippe , De Lédinghen Victor , Ouzan Denis , Zoulim Fabien , Audureau Etienne
Published: February 2021

To assess the impact of HCV eradication on the outcomes of cirrhotic patients treated curatively for incidental hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detected during surveillance program. Data were collected on 1,323 French patients with compensated biopsy-proven HCV cirrhosis recruited in 35 centers (ANRS CO12 CirVir cohort). Sustained virologic responses (SVR) and the occurrence of HCC were recorded prospectively. During a median follow-up of 68.3 months, 218 patients developed HCC, 126 of whom underwent a curative procedure as first-line therapy (ablation = 95, resection = 31). The HCC BCLC stage was 0/A in 97.5% of patients; 74 (58.7%) never achieved SVR. During a median follow-up of 26.0 months after HCC treatment, 59 (46.8%) experienced HCC recurrence. SVR was not associated with a recurrence, whether considering final SVR status [HR = 0.77; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.43–1.39; P = 0.39] or its time to achievement (prior to/after HCC occurrence; global P = 0.28). During the same timeframe, 46 patients with HCC (36.5%) died (liver failure: 41.9%, HCC progression: 37.2%, extrahepatic causes: 20.9%). Under multivariate analysis, SVR was associated with improved survival [HR = 0.21; 95% CI, 0.08–0.52; P = 0.001]. Survival benefit was explained by a lower incidence of liver decompensation and higher rates of sequential HCC re-treatment. Direct antiviral intake was not associated with a higher risk of HCC recurrence, but with improved survival (HR = 0.23; 95% CI, 0.06–0.83; P = 0.024). HCV eradication in primary or secondary prevention optimizes HCC management through preservation of liver function and improves survival, whatever the regimen.

Prevention Relevance:

Liver failure is a competing risk of death in patients with HCC eligible for curative procedures. HCV eradication does not decrease risk of HCC recurrence in the first two years, but enables sequential curative HCC treatments through preservation of liver function. Direct-acting antiviral agent intake is not associated with HCC recurrence and improves survival.
Association of Serum Aldosterone and Plasma Renin Activity With Ambulatory Blood Pressure in African Americans: The Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Joseph Joshua J. , Pohlman Neal K. , Zhao Songzhu , Kline David , Brock Guy , Echouffo-Tcheugui Justin B. , Sims Mario , Effoe Valery S. , Wu Wen-Chih , Kalyani Rita R. , Wand Gary S. , Kluwe Bjorn , Hsueh Willa A. , Abdalla Marwah , Shimbo Daichi , Golden Sherita H.
Published: February 2021

Background:

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is an important driver of blood pressure (BP), but the association of the RAAS with ambulatory BP (ABP) and ABP monitoring phenotypes among African Americans has not been assessed.

Methods:

ABP and ABP monitoring phenotypes were assessed in 912 Jackson Heart Study participants with aldosterone and plasma renin activity (PRA). Multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the association of aldosterone and PRA with clinic, awake, and asleep systolic BP and diastolic BP (DBP) and ABP monitoring phenotypes, adjusting for important confounders.

Results:

The mean age of participants was 59±11 years and 69% were female. In fully adjusted models, lower log-PRA was associated with higher clinic, awake, and asleep systolic BP and DBP (all
P
<0.05). A higher log-aldosterone was associated with higher clinic, awake, and asleep DBP (all
P
<0.05). A 1-unit higher log-PRA was associated with lower odds of daytime hypertension (odds ratio [OR] 0.59 [95% CI, 0.49–0.71]), nocturnal hypertension (OR, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.58–0.79]), daytime and nocturnal hypertension (OR, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.48–0.71]), sustained hypertension (OR, 0.52 [95% CI, 0.39–0.70]), and masked hypertension (OR 0.75 [95% CI, 0.62–0.90]). A 1-unit higher log-aldosterone was associated with higher odds of nocturnal hypertension (OR, 1.38 [95% CI, 1.05–1.81]). Neither PRA nor aldosterone was associated with percent dipping, nondipping BP pattern, or white-coat hypertension. Patterns for aldosterone:renin ratio were similar to patterns for PRA.

Conclusions:

Suppressed renin activity and higher aldosterone:renin ratios were associated with higher systolic BP and DBP in the office and during the awake and asleep periods as evidenced by ABP monitoring. Higher aldosterone levels were associated with higher DBP, but not systolic BP, in the clinic and during the awake and asleep periods. Further clinical investigation of novel and approved medications that target low renin physiology such as epithelial sodium channel inhibitors and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists may be paramount in improving hypertension control in African Americans.
Citizen Sensing from a Legal Standpoint: Legitimizing the Practice under the Aarhus Framework
Authors: Berti Suman Anna
Published: February 2021

‘Citizen sensing’, grassroots-driven environmental monitoring, could revolutionize environmental risk governance and decision-making. Yet, citizen sensing is far from being accepted by governmental authorities. This contribution explores the environmental law doctrine and legislation for a possible legal basis on which the ‘sensing citizens’ could perform their actions. I argue that the practice, by nature, voices the citizen’s claims to have access to (accurate) environmental information. I defend that citizen sensing is a legitimate manifestation of ‘rights in action’ that can enhance the respect of human environmental rights and promote their enforcement. This study demonstrates how, from the Aarhus Convention framework, an obligation for competent authorities to ‘listen’ to the sensing citizens might even be constructed in case of institutional informational gaps and failures.
Green and Just? An Update on the ‘European Green Deal’
Authors: Fleming Ruven C. , Mauger Romain
Published: February 2021

The article discusses recent developments concerning the most important European energy and climate law initiative at the moment, the ‘European Green Deal’. Details of the initial ‘European Green Deal’ have been discussed elsewhere in this journal. At its core are two components: the green transition of European societies on the one hand and the question how this may be organized in a just way, on the other hand. The article discusses recent developments concerning these ‘green’and ‘just’aspects and concludes with some critical remarks on the ways in which these ‘green’ and ‘just’ aspects of the ‘European Green Deal’ are being implemented into energy and climate law.
The 2019 Southern Hemisphere Stratospheric Polar Vortex Weakening and Its Impacts
Authors: Lim Eun-Pa , Hendon Harry H. , Butler Amy H. , Thompson David W. J. , Lawrence Zachary D. , Scaife Adam A. , Shepherd Theodore G. , Polichtchouk Inna , Nakamura Hisashi , Kobayashi Chiaki , Comer Ruth , Coy Lawrence , Dowdy Andrew , Garreaud Rene D. , Newman Paul A. , Wang Guomin
Published: February 2021

This study offers an overview of the low-frequency (i.e., monthly to seasonal) evolution, dynamics, predictability, and surface impacts of a rare Southern Hemisphere (SH) stratospheric warming that occurred in austral spring 2019. Between late August and mid-September 2019, the stratospheric circumpolar westerly jet weakened rapidly, and Antarctic stratospheric temperatures rose dramatically. The deceleration of the vortex at 10 hPa was as drastic as that of the first-ever-observed major sudden stratospheric warming in the SH during 2002, while the mean Antarctic warming over the course of spring 2019 broke the previous record of 2002 by ∼50% in the midstratosphere. This event was preceded by a poleward shift of the SH polar night jet in the uppermost stratosphere in early winter, which was then followed by record-strong planetary wave-1 activity propagating upward from the troposphere in August that acted to dramatically weaken the polar vortex throughout the depth of the stratosphere. The weakened vortex winds and elevated temperatures moved downward to the surface from mid-October to December, promoting a record strong swing of the southern annular mode (SAM) to its negative phase. This record-negative SAM appeared to be a primary driver of the extreme hot and dry conditions over subtropical eastern Australia that accompanied the severe wildfires that occurred in late spring 2019. State-of-the-art dynamical seasonal forecast systems skillfully predicted the significant vortex weakening of spring 2019 and subsequent development of negative SAM from as early as late July.
On the Varying Responses of East Asian Winter Monsoon to Three Types of El Niño: Observations and Model Hindcasts
Authors: Kim Ji-Won , Chang Ting-Huai , Lee Ching-Teng , Yu Jin-Yi
Published: February 2021

Using observational data and model hindcasts produced by a coupled climate model, we examine the response of the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) to three types of El Niño: eastern Pacific (EP) and central Pacific I (CP-I) and II (CP-II) El Niños. The observational analysis shows that all three El Niño types weaken the EAWM with varying degrees of impact. The EP El Niño has the largest weakening effect, while the CP-II El Niño has the second largest, and the CP-I El Niño has the smallest. We find that diverse El Niño types impact the EAWM by altering the responses of two anomalous anticyclones during El Niño mature winter: the western North Pacific anticyclone (WNPAC) and Kuroshio anticyclone (KAC). The WNPAC responses are controlled by the Gill response and Indian Ocean warming processes that both respond to the eastern-to-central tropical Pacific precipitation anomalies. The KAC responses are controlled by a poleward wave propagation responding to the northwestern tropical Pacific precipitation anomalies. We find that the model hindcasts significantly underestimate the weakening effect during the EP and CP-II El Niños. These underestimations are related to a model deficiency in which it produces a too-weak WNPAC response during the EP El Niño and completely misses the KAC response during both types of El Niño. The too-weak WNPAC response is caused by the model deficiency of simulating too-weak eastern-to-central tropical Pacific precipitation anomalies. The lack of KAC response arises from the unrealistic response of the model’s extratropical atmosphere to the northwestern tropical Pacific precipitation anomalies.
Transformation of National Identity, Geo-politics and Nation Building in Post-colonial African States: The Cases of Cameroon and Senegal
Authors: Ngwa Neba Ridley , Akgün Birol
Published: February 2021

This article examines the evolving nature of national identity and its significance to geo-politics and nation-building in post-colonial African states, specifically Cameroon and Senegal. Within the current global context, previous theories and scholars failed to explain how recent changes in national identity inform the choice of geo-politics in post-colonial Cameroon and Senegal. It is against this backdrop that this article examines the extent to which changes in elite and public perception on national identity transcended national borders and spilled over to the geo-political landscape. The paper relied on a mixed-method research design that combines elements of qualitative and quantitative techniques. The mixed-method approach is anchored on comparative case study techniques. The data were largely drawn from both primary and secondary sources; the primary sources included semi-structured interviews, and public statements, while the secondary sources comprised educational curriculums, Afrobarometer, World Bank data and the Swiss Economic Globalization Index. The outcome of the analysis showed that in recent years changes in national identity have transcended national borders and spilled over to the geo-political landscape. Findings revealed the extent to which the underlying features of national identity have been indigenized, Africanized and globalized to symbolize what it means to be a Cameroonian and Senegalese Citizen. Comparatively, it was established that Senegal has assumed a more dynamic image and position in geo-politics than Cameroon. Nonetheless, Cameroon’s and Senegal’s recent dynamic and versatile image accounts for the new type of national identity theorized in this paper as a form of strategic identity. The paper also highlighted the challenges and significance of strategic identity to issues of growth, nation and peace-building.
How to Establish a Language-Rich Environment Through a Collaborative SLP–Teacher Partnership
Authors: Stehle Wallace Erin , Senter Reed , Peterson Nicole , Dunn Kelsey T. , Chow Jason
Published: February 2021

Students’ language skills are a foundational component to their overall success, indicating the importance of rich language environments in classrooms. It is critical for teachers to understand how to create an environment aimed at maximizing language as they’re likely to have students with language disorders in their classroom. Typically, teachers receive minimal training on students with language disorders and how to support them academically. This paper discusses the significance of interdisciplinary collaborative relationships between speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and general education teachers to achieve a language rich environment in the classroom. We (a) introduce the essential components to an effective SLP-teacher partnership, (b) address barriers and provide plausible solutions, (c) overview common types of language disorders, (d) provide tips on how to use language-supportive strategies, and (e) discuss different types of effective partnerships to support students.
Analysis of Factors Causing False-Negative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Results in Oropharyngeal and Nasopharyngeal Swabs of Patients With COVID-19
Authors: İşlek Akif , Balcı Mustafa Koray
Published: February 2021

Objectives:

To analyze factors regarding patient characteristics, sampling techniques, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) specific manifestations that may cause false-negative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted. For the diagnosis of COVID-19, patients with RT-PCR test positive in the first nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs were accepted as true positive, and patients with negative 3 consecutive swab results were considered true negative. Those who had a negative initial swab were considered false negatives if they subsequently tested positive on the second or third swab. Demographic data of the patients, the onset of the disease, presence of nasal septal deviation, presence of epistaxis, the clinician (otolaryngologist/other physicians [OP]) who collected the samples, and medical treatments for laryngopharyngeal reflux, allergic respiratory diseases, allergic rhinitis, which include proton pump inhibitors and nasal steroids (NS), were documented. The analysis of dependent variables was performed with the chi-square test. Binary logistic regression was performed for significant variables.

Results:

A total of 399 patients were included in the study, and 357 (89.5%) patients were detected as positive after 2 or 3 consecutive RT-PCR tests. The presence of ageusia, anosmia, and collecting the samples within 7 days following the onset of symptoms were determined as significant factors for positive RT-PCR results ( P = <.001; odds ratio [OR] = 6.2, 5.8, 11.6, respectively). The profession of the clinician (OP), NS use, and the presence of epistaxis were detected as significant factors for the false-negative RT-PCR results ( P < .001; OR = 2.3, 3.1, 8.7, respectively).

Conclusions:

Patient- and/or sample-related factors can affect RT-PCR results of possible COVID-19 cases. The presence of these factors can easily be determined in cases with high clinical suspicion and negative RT-PCR results. The presence of ageusia, anosmia, early sampling (<7days), and appropriate collection of swabs decrease false-negative RT-PCR results.
Cents versus scale steps: Can we tell the difference between major and minor thirds?
Authors: Neto Pedro , Vanzella Patricia M
Published: February 2021

We report an experiment in which participants ( N = 368) were asked to differentiate between major and minor thirds. These intervals could either be formed by diatonic tones from the C major scale (tonal condition) or by a subset of tones from the chromatic scale (atonal condition). We hypothesized that in the tonal condition intervals would be perceived as a function of scale step distances, which we defined as the number of diatonic leaps between two notes of a given music scale. In the atonal condition, we hypothesized that intervals would be perceived as a function of cents. If our hypotheses were supported, we should verify a less accurate performance in the tonal condition, where scale step distances are the same between major and minor thirds. The data corroborated our hypotheses, and we suggest that acoustic measurements of intervallic distances (i.e., frequency ratios and cents) are not optimal when it comes to describing the perceptual quality of intervals in a tonal context. Finally, our research points to the possibility that, in comparison with previous models, scale steps and cents might better capture the notion of global versus local instances of auditory processing.
State of the Practice for High Polymer-Modified Asphalt Binders and Mixtures
Authors: Habbouche Jhony , Boz Ilker , Diefenderfer Brian K. , Smith Bryan C. , Adel Sayed Hamidullah
Published: February 2021

The objective of this paper was to provide information on the state of the practice for using high polymer-modified (HP) asphalt concrete (AC) mixtures in the United States (U.S.) and Canada. This information was collected through a survey of U.S. and Canadian provincial agencies combined with a search of HP-related specifications, special provisions, and field trials or pilot projects previously constructed. Moreover, the Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT) current state of the practice with regard to using HP paving material was determined. This was achieved through a navigation of VDOT databases to report tonnage and types of produced HP AC mixtures, and experience, lessons learned, and best practices on behalf of multiple asphalt contractors in the area. The majority of the agencies that currently use or have constructed field trials and pilot projects using HP AC mixtures are located in the eastern part of the U.S. In general, HP AC mixtures have been used in a wide range of applications ranging from full-depth AC to thin AC overlays under heavy traffic on interstates and slow-braking loads at intersections. No major field-related construction issues in relation to mixing temperatures and in-place compaction of HP AC mixtures were reported, and standard construction practices and equipment were used. Finally, good communication between the polymer/binder supplier and the contractor, and solid planning before conducting the work were important lessons learned with regard to paving with HP AC mixtures.
Ability to Identify External Ear Deformities and Normal External Ear Anatomy Based on Year and Specialty of Medical Training
Authors: Varman Rahul M. , Schrader Kaylee , Fort Callie , Daniel Hannah , Al Mekdash Mhd Hasan , Demke Joshua
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to analyze a potential association between resident training level/specialty type and correct identification of external ear deformities/external ear anatomy. A Qualtrics survey was distributed via email to all pertinent residency programs in the United States. The survey captured specialty type (Otolaryngology, Pediatrics, and Plastic Surgery) and level of training (PGY 1-2 and PGY 3+). The assessment asked residents to identify 10 clinically relevant external ear deformities and 10 normal pinna anatomic subunits. Chi-square tests were used to examine the association between the level of training/specialty type and performance on individual survey items. To examine group performance on overall mean scores of the external ear deformity/external ear anatomy survey, a t-test and factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used. Responses from 105 residents were analyzed. Senior residents (PGY 3+) performed significantly better in correctly identifying Microtia Grade 3, Question Mark ear, and Cryptotia as compared to junior residents (PGY 1-2). Senior residents performed significantly better in the identification of external ear deformities ( P = .002) and normal pinna anatomical subunits ( P < .001). Otolaryngology and Plastic Surgery residents performed significantly better in the identification of external ear deformities ( P < .001) and normal pinna anatomical subunits ( P < .001) than Pediatrics. There were no significant interaction effects between the level of training and the specialty type on either ear deformity or normal pinna anatomy identification. Residents had a 34.5% success rate of identifying ear deformities and showed improved confidence in identification when exposed to a digital-based examination. Improved education methods for detection will help with timely correction of ear deformities.
Effects of Radiant Heat and Frictional Abrasion on Thermal Protective Performance of Clothing Against High Pressurized Steam
Authors: He Jiazhen , Sun Ling , Lu Yehu
Published: February 2021

This study focused on changes in protective performance of steam protective clothing after exposure to conditions such as thermal radiation and frictional abrasion. Totally eight radiation conditions varying on exposure duration and times, four types of abrasion scenarios with different friction cycles and three different combined treatments were designed. Results demonstrated that any increase in radiant exposure duration or exposure times would lead to an initial increase and then a following decrease in the steam protective performance. However, the steam protective performance seemed relatively immune to the friction cycles. When thermal radiation and frictional abrasion acted together, interactions between them existed and their specific interaction highly depended on the distribution of heat exposure duration and friction cycles. Findings of this study provided insight into factors influencing steam protective performance, and could be an aid in developing high performance materials or guidelines for use and maintenance of protective clothing.
A Comparison of Coping Strategies Among Homeless Women With Dependent Children and Homeless Women Without Children
Authors: Talley Jennifer L. , Hammonds-Greene Patti
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to compare the coping strategies between homeless women with dependent children and homeless women without dependent children. Of the 192 homeless women in this study, 64 were mothers whose dependent children lived with them, and 132 were women who did not have dependent children living with them. The women were recruited from homeless shelters in Georgia, in the Metro Atlanta area and surrounding counties. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to test the differences between both groups using their scores on the Coping Strategies Inventory scales survey instrument (problem-solving skills, problem reframing, and ability to access social networks). Univariate analysis was used to look at each dependent variable. There was no statistical difference in coping strategies between both groups. The conclusions from this study suggest continued research regarding the benefit of coping strategies among homeless populations.