bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bantuan Kemanusiaan Civitas Akademika Poltekkes Kemenkes Palu untuk Korban Banjir Bandang Rogo, Sigi - Sulawesi Tengah
Authors: Hafid Fahmi , Nasrul Nasrul , Linda Linda , Batjo Siti Hadijah , Gusman Gusman , Amsal Amsal , Masudin Masudin , Mangun Mardiani , Tampake Rina , Mangundap Selvi Alfrida , Erlina Erlina , Safari Mooammar , Arianty Ros , Evie Sova , Hasni Hasni , Masda Masda , Suswinarto Dwi Yogyo , Azwar Azwar , H Yasmin , Sutiwi Sri , Pertiwi Ekasari Dewi , Raoda Raoda , Aminah Sitti , Hasdrini Hasdrini , Salman Salman , Sasmita Hanum , Bungawati Andi , Novarianti Novarianti , Gunawan Ade Irma Yulianti , Nurindah Nurindah , Hardin Hardin , Sumiaty Sumiaty , Muliani Muliani , Candriasih Putu , Lisnawati Lisnawati , Aminuddin Aminuddin , Syam Dedi Mahyudin , Christine Christine , Yani Muhammad , Silfia Niluh Nita , Aslinda Wery , Adinda Adinda , Hasan Sri Musriniawati , Sinurat Diana N. , Tampuyak Irawati , Sukmawati Sukmawati , Wijianto Wijianto , Kurniasari Dian , Said Rugayah , Riyanto Eka S. , Usman Hastuti , Tempali Sri Restu , Ansar Ansar , Adhyanti Adhyanti , Faisal Elvyrah , Nurjaya Nurjaya , Ramadhan Kadar , Hamsiah Hamsiah , Listiawati Dian Mega , Sumarni Sumarni , Zainul Zainul
Published: February 2022

Banjir bandang yang disertai material lumpur, batu dan kayu menerjang desa Rogo. Puluhan rumah warga tertimbun lumpur setinggi 1-2meter dan tidak layak huni. Dampak yang ditimbulkan seperti kekurangan makanan, air bersih serta kebutuhan dasar lainnya. Peran modal sosial dibutuhkan dalam upaya pemulihan pasca bencana banjir bandang. Upaya melibatkan masyarakat dengan donasi atau bantuan kemanusiaan. Oleh karena jumlah korban banjir bandang cukup besar dan kebutuhan korban banjir bandang yang mendesak maka melalui kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat dilaksanakan bantuan kemanusiaan civitas akademika Poltekkes Kemenkes Palu untuk Korban Banjir Bandang Rogo, Kabupaten Sigi provinsi Sulawesi Tengah. Kegiatan penggalangan donasi dilakukan setelah informasi dari media sosial tentang kejadian banjir bandang di Desa Rogo. Pelaksanaan kegiatan dengan penyaluran sembako (Beras, minyak goreng, gula pasir, teh) nasi kuning, buah pisang, sayur-sayuran, Biskuit balita dan ibu hamil, popok, ember dan gayung. Kegiatan penggalangan donasi dan penyalurannya dilaksanakan pada tanggal 05-07 September 2021. Masyarakat Rogo yang terdampak banjir bandang menerima dengan baik bantuan yang diberikan dan pelaksanaan kegiatan berjalan dengan lancar.
Pelatihan Keterampilan Konseling Gizi pada Kader Posyandu di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Panambungan, Makassar
Authors: Nurbaya Nurbaya , Nurcahyani Icha Dian , Khomeney Mohammad , Chandra Wahyu
Published: February 2022

Data Riskesdas tahun 2018 menunjukkan prevalensi balita stunting  di Sulawesi Selatan sebanyak 35,7%. Untuk wilayah Kota Makassar tercatat 8.61% balita stunting. Berdasarkan data tersebut, pemerintah kota Makassar menetapkan upaya penurunan stunting fokus pada upaya pencegahan stunting sejak dini. Salah satu upaya yang dapat dilakukan adalah melalui pelatihan kader Posyandu sebagai salah satu kelompok yang paling dekat dengan ibu dan balita di Masyarakat. Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini dilakukan oleh Jalin Institute bekerja sama dengan Tim PKK Kota Makassar. Kegiatan ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan konseling kader posyandu dalam melakukan konseling gizi di masyarakat. Metode yang digunakan adalah pemberian edukasi dalam bentuk ceramah dan diskusi. Pada tahap evaluasi, kader mampu menjawab pertanyaan  dan memberikan umpan balik dengan benar. Hal ini mengindikasikan adanya peningkatan pengetahuan setelah pemberian edukasi. Diperlukan komitmen semua pihak dalam upaya pencegahan stunting di Kota Makassar, termasuk dalam bentuk kegiatan pelatihan pada kader Posyandu yang dilakukan secara rutin.
Mapping Allergic Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Mvoundza Ndjindji Ofilia , Djoba Siawaya Joel Fleury
Published: February 2022

The consensus is that allergic diseases are increasing in Africa. However, this paradigm shift has not yet been translated into practice. Focused on infectious diseases (malaria, tuberculosis, HIV), health policies in Sub-Saharan Africa have often neglected the diagnosis and management of allergies. Allergic disease mapping is crucial to grasp the full extent of Africa's allergic diseases' impact. This mapping will require diverting resources to diagnose and study allergies, even more at the dawn of precision medicine.
COVID: The Missing Trigger to Start a Remote FIT Course
Authors: dos Santos Mamed Marcelo , Gastaldi Giacomo
Published: February 2022

Type 1 diabetes management is a highly demanding task that largely falls on people with diabetes, their family, and their peers. Diabetes self-management education and support aim at increasing knowledge, skills, and confidence to take appropriate diabetes management decisions. The current evidence shows that efficient diabetes self-management relies on person-centered interventions and a team of pluri-disciplinary educators with expertise in diabetes care and education. The irruption of the COVID-19 pandemic has increased diabetes burden and the need to offer remote diabetes self-management education services. The present article offers a perspective about expectations and quality issues related to the implementation of a remote version of the FIT course, a validated structured diabetes management educational program.
Piezo1 Participated in Decreased L-Type Calcium Current Induced by High Hydrostatic Pressure via. CaM/Src/Pitx2 Activation in Atrial Myocytes
Authors: Fang Yuan , Li Qian , Li Xin , Luo Guan-Hao , Kuang Su-Juan , Luo Xue-Shan , Li Qiao-Qiao , Yang Hui , Liu Yang , Deng Chun-Yu , Xue Yu-Mei , Wu Shu-Lin , Rao Fang
Published: February 2022

Hypertension is a major cardiovascular risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF) worldwide. However, the role of mechanical stress caused by hypertension on downregulating the L-type calcium current (ICa,L), which is vital for AF occurrence, remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the role of Piezo1, a mechanically activated ion channel, in the decrease of ICa,L in response to high hydrostatic pressure (HHP, one of the principal mechanical stresses) at 40 mmHg, and to elucidate the underlying pathways. Experiments were conducted using left atrial appendages from patients with AF, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) treated with valsartan (Val) at 30 mg/kg/day and atrium-derived HL-1 cells exposed to HHP. The protein expression levels of Piezo1, Calmodulin (CaM), and Src increased, while that of the L-type calcium channel a1c subunit protein (Cav1.2) decreased in the left atrial tissue of AF patients and SHRs. SHRs were more vulnerable to AF, with decreased ICa,L and shortened action potential duration, which were ameliorated by Val treatment. Validation of these results in HL-1 cells in the context of HHP also demonstrated that Piezo1 is required for the decrease of ICa,L by regulating Ca2+ transient and activating CaM/Src pathway to increase the expression of paired like homeodomain-2 (Pitx2) in atrial myocytes. Together, these data demonstrate that HHP stimulation increases AF susceptibility through Piezo1 activation, which is required for the decrease of ICa,Lvia. the CaM/Src/Pitx2 pathway in atrial myocytes.
Teacher Artificial Intelligence-Supported Pedagogical Actions in Collaborative Learning Coregulation: A Wizard-of-Oz Study
Authors: Kasepalu Reet , Prieto Luis P. , Ley Tobias , Chejara Pankaj
Published: February 2022

Orchestrating collaborative learning (CL) is difficult for teachers as it involves being aware of multiple simultaneous classroom events and intervening when needed. Artificial intelligence (AI) technology might support the teachers’ pedagogical actions during CL by helping detect students in need and providing suggestions for intervention. This would be resulting in AI and teacher co-orchestrating CL; the effectiveness of which, however, is still in question. This study explores whether having an AI assistant helping the teacher in orchestrating a CL classroom is understandable for the teacher and if it affects the teachers’ pedagogical actions, understanding and strategies of coregulation. Twenty in-service teachers were interviewed using a Wizard-of-Oz protocol. Teachers were asked to identify problems during the CL of groups of students (shown as videos), proposed how they would intervene, and later received (and evaluated) the pedagogical actions suggested by an AI assistant. Our mixed-methods analysis showed that the teachers found the AI assistant useful. Moreover, in multiple cases the teachers started employing the pedagogical actions the AI assistant had introduced to them. Furthermore, an increased number of coregulation methods were employed. Our analysis also explores the extent to which teachers’ expertise is associated with their understanding of coregulation, e.g., less experienced teachers did not see coregulation as part of a teacher’s responsibility, while more experienced teachers did.
Underutilized Lignocellulosic Waste as Sources of Feedstock for Biofuel Production in Developing Countries
Authors: Adewuyi Adewale
Published: February 2022

The need for a reliable and sustainable energy source, stability in energy price and solution to environmental challenges of fossil fuel has led to searching for an alternative energy source to fossil fuel. Several alternative sources have been developed over time, but they are limited in one form or another. However, biofuel such as bioethanol has been identified as a superb alternative with superior properties to fossil fuel. One major challenge with biofuel is the high production cost resulting from feedstock, which may also serve as a food source. In order to address this challenge, research is focused on searching for cheap and sustainable feedstock for biofuel production. Currently, attention is on lignocellulosic waste as feedstock with a keen interest in developing the most appropriate technique for processing it to bioethanol, especially in developing countries, which is the focus of this review. This review involves converting lignocellulosic waste to bioethanol and the pretreatment steps involved as well as its challenges, prospect and economic aspect. Among the pretreatment steps reported, biological treatment remains outstanding but with a few challenges which can be managed. Biofuel has come to stay in developing countries with lots of opportunities that favours its production cost. Although the high cost of enzyme production has been identified as a challenge to the economic viability of lignocellulosic bioethanol, there is hope that developing an efficient bio-system for simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) and consolidated biomass processing may help circumvent the challenge. In conclusion, the effective utilization of lignocellulosic waste in an efficient biocatalyst system can serve as an economically viable means to overcome the challenge posed by fossil fuel.
Multi-Objective Optimization Design of Radiation Shadow Shield for Space Nuclear Power With Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Liu Bin , Lv Huanwen , Li Lan , Chai Xiaoming , Xu Hu , Tan Yi , Xia Bangyang , Chen Cong
Published: February 2022

The radiation shadow shield of the space nuclear power is an important component to protect the electronic device at the dose plane. In this paper, design of the radiation shadow shield is first modeled as a multi-objective optimization problem, and then converted into a single objective optimization problem by setting the other sub-objectives as constraints. An optimization method combining a single objective genetic algorithm with Monte Carlo simulation is developed to solve the optimization problem of shadow shield design. Through optimization, weight of the radiation shadow shield can be greatly reduced (14.7% of the weight of the initial design and 16.4% of the weight of the best individual of the first generation), while radiation dose at the dose plane is lower than the acceptable tolerance. The optimization method developed in this work is an automated optimization strategy by searching for the parameter space, which will not be subject to human preferences. The global optimal solutions can be obtained without the tedium of human manual work.
The Influence of Consumers’ Purchase Intention Factors on Willingness to Pay for Renewable Energy; Mediating Effect of Attitude
Authors: Nazir Mehrab , Tian Jian
Published: February 2022

Low market adoption has been a real challenge to Pakistan`s renewable energy growth. This research investigated the factors that influence the intention to use renewable energy in Pakistan. This research was conducted to examine the influences of renewable energy and marketing factors on purchase intention through attitude. It analyzed seven concepts: social media exposure, relative advantage, ease of use, awareness, cost, attitude, and purchase intention and deliberated their relationships. The conceptual framework is based on the theory of planned behavior and the unified theory of acceptance. The primary purpose of this study is to examine the influence of (social media exposure, relative advantage, ease of use, awareness, and cost) on purchase intention with the indirect effect of attitude. Proposed hypotheses have been tested using structured questionnaires through SPSS (AMOS) based on a sample of 497 respondents from Pakistan. Structural equation modeling technique was used to analyze the studied variables’ relationships (social media exposure, relative advantage, ease of use, and ease of use, awareness, and cost) and attitude with purchase intention. Study findings show that attitude has a major mediating effect on the relationship between purchase intention and (social media exposure, relative advantage, ease of use, awareness, and cost). The main findings revealed interesting consumer purchase intention regarding renewable energy technology. The results showed a significant positive relationship between influential determinants (social media exposure, relative advantage, ease of use, awareness, and cost) and purchase intention towards the use of renewable energy technology. This study suggests that these marketing approaches can be used as a brand marketing strategy to enhance customer purchase intention. The study’s findings will help in making decision in the renewable energy sub-sector. Furthermore, the findings of this study could be used as a reference by the government when making decisions about renewable energy deployment.
Construction of a Lactate-Related Prognostic Signature for Predicting Prognosis, Tumor Microenvironment, and Immune Response in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Zhuolun , Tao Wen , Guo Xudong , Jing Changying , Zhang Mingxiao , Wang Zhenqing , Kong Feng , Suo Ning , Jiang Shaobo , Wang Hanbo
Published: February 2022

Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is one of the most prevalent primary malignancies with high heterogeneity in the urological system. Growing evidence implies that lactate is a significant carbon source for cell metabolism and plays a vital role in tumor development, maintenance, and therapeutic response. However, the global influence of lactate-related genes (LRGs) on prognostic significance, tumor microenvironment characteristics, and therapeutic response has not been comprehensively elucidated in patients with KIRC. In the present study, we collected RNA sequencing and clinical data of KIRC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), E-MTAB-1980, and GSE22541 cohorts. Unsupervised clustering of 17 differentially expressed LRG profiles divided the samples into three clusters with distinct immune characteristics. Three genes (FBP1, HADH, and TYMP) were then identified to construct a lactate-related prognostic signature (LRPS) using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Cox regression analyses. The novel signature exhibited excellent robustness and predictive ability for the overall survival of patients. In addition, the constructed nomogram based on the LRPS-based risk scores and clinical factors (age, gender, tumor grade, and stage) showed a robust predictive performance. Furthermore, patients classified by risk scores had distinguishable immune status, tumor mutation burden, response to immunotherapy, and sensitivity to drugs. In conclusion, we developed an LRPS for KIRC that was closely related to the immune landscape and therapeutic response. This LRPS may guide clinicians to make more precise and personalized treatment decisions for KIRC patients.
Interannual Variation in Phytoplankton Community Driven by Environmental Factors in the Northern East China Sea
Authors: Sun Yanxu , Youn Seok-Hyun , Kim Yejin , Kang Jae Joong , Lee Dabin , Kim Kwanwoo , Jang Hyo Keun , Jo Naeun , Yun Mi Sun , Song Sang-Keun , Lee Sang Heon
Published: February 2022

The relative importance of interannual environmental changes in shaping phytoplankton community structure remains unclear in the East China Sea (ECS), which is the largest marginal sea in the western North Pacific Ocean. Based on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of a variety of photosynthetic pigments, we investigated spatiotemporal variations in the phytoplankton community in the northern East China Sea (NECS) from 2018 to 2020 to understand biomass and compositional responses to environmental conditions in a complex current system. Correlation heatmaps and generalized additive models (GAMs) were used to explore the variations in major phytoplankton groups and their relationships to temperature, salinity, depth, and nutrients. The results indicated that the phytoplankton community structure was significantly different between 2018/2019 and 2020. Under the conditions of high dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and low dissolved inorganic phosphate (DIP) concentrations in winter 2020, cryptophytes replaced diatoms as the dominant species and were observed for the first time in this study area. Dinoflagellates predominated throughout the euphotic zone in spring 2020, and statistical analysis showed that dinoflagellates tended to prevail at low DIP and high DIN conditions compared with diatoms. Summer was the only season with strong water stratification that reoccurred every year, and diatoms were mainly concentrated at nutrient-enriched 1% light depths in the summers of 2018/2019. However, a large amount of Changjiang River Diluted Water (CDW) from the surface and western part of the study area affected all sampling sites eastward to 126°E in 2020, allowing diatoms to be dominant at 100% and 30% light depths in the westernmost stations in the NECS. In autumn 2020, diatoms decreased significantly because of DIP-limited environmental conditions and were replaced by small phytoplankton. Under expected warming ocean scenarios with human-induced nutrient inputs, small phytoplankton will become dominant, while spring dinoflagellate blooms will occur more frequently in the NECS. International monitoring programs for marine ecosystems are currently needed in the ECS.
Case Report: Laparoscopic Isthmocele Repair on an 8 Weeks Pregnant Uterus
Authors: Pirtea Laurentiu , Balint Oana , Secoşan Cristina , Grigoraş Dorin , Pirtea Paul
Published: February 2022

An isthmocele, also known as a caesarean scar defect, is a long-term complication of caesarean sections with an increasing incidence. Although is often asymptomatic, it is a novel recognised cause of abnormal uterine bleeding, and it is a major risk factor for caesarean scar pregnancies or uterine ruptures in subsequent pregnancies. Currently there are no guidelines for the diagnosis and management of this condition. Several surgical techniques for the correction of isthmocele are proposed, including laparoscopic excision, vaginal repair, a combined laparoscopic-vaginal approach or more recently hysteroscopic resection. We present the case of a GII PI, 29 years old patient with a previous c-section who presented in our clinic with a positive pregnancy test for pregnancy confirmation. The ultrasound examination revealed an intrauterine evolutive 8 weeks pregnancy and a caesarean scar defect. After counselling the patient opted for pregnancy continuation and laparoscopic correction of the isthmocele. The surgery was performed under ultrasound guidance. The defect was resected, and the uterus was closed with a continuous two-layer suture. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were present. The pregnancy continued uneventfully A caesarean section was performed at term revealing a fully healed scar.
Bacteria Associated With Phaeocystis globosa and Their Influence on Colony Formation
Authors: Xu Shuaishuai , Wang Xiaodong , Liu Jie , Zhou Fengli , Guo Kangli , Chen Songze , Wang Zhao-hui , Wang Yan
Published: February 2022

Phaeocystis globosa (P. globosa) is one of the dominant algae during harmful algal blooms (HABs) in coastal regions of Southern China. P. globosa exhibits complex heteromorphic life cycles that could switch between solitary cells and colonies. The ecological success of P. globosa has been attributed to its colony formation, although underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we investigated different bacterial communities associated with P. globosa colonies and their influence on colony formation of two P. globosa strains isolated from coastal waters of Guangxi (GX) and Shantou (ST). Eight operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were observed in ST co-cultures and were identified as biomarkers based on Linear discriminant analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) analysis, while seven biomarkers were identified in P. globosa GX co-cultures. Bacterial communities associated with the P. globosa GX were more diverse than those of the ST strain. The most dominant phylum in the two co-cultures was Proteobacteria, within which Marinobacter was the most abundant genus in both GX and ST co-cultures. Bacteroidota were only observed in the GX co-cultures and Planctomycetota were only observed in the ST co-cultures. Co-culture experiments revealed that P. globosa colony formation was not influenced by low and medium cell densities of Marinobacter sp. GS7, but was inhibited by high cell densities of Marinobacter sp. GS7. Overall, these results indicated that the associated bacteria are selected by different P. globosa strains, which may affect the colony formation and development of P. globosa.
The Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Induction of Cancer-Stem Cell Phenotype
Authors: Jing Yuanming , Liang Wenqing , Zhang Lin , Tang Junjun , Huang Zongliang
Published: February 2022

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) modify and form their microenvironment by recruiting and activating specific cell types such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Tumor-infiltrating MSCs help to establish a suitable tumor microenvironment for the restoration of CSCs and tumor progression. In addition, crosstalk between cancer cells and MSCs in the microenvironment induces a CSC phenotype in cancer cells. Many mechanisms are involved in crosstalk between CSCs/cancer cells and MSCs including cell-cell interaction, secretion of exosomes, and paracrine secretion of several molecules including inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and growth factors. Since this crosstalk may contribute to drug resistance, metastasis, and tumor growth, it is suggested that blockade of the crosstalk between MSCs and CSCs/cancer cells can provide a new avenue to improving the cancer therapeutic tools. In this review, we will discuss the role of MSCs in the induction of cancer stem cell phenotype and the restoration of CSCs. We also discuss targeting the crosstalk between MSCs and CSCs/cancer cells as a therapeutic strategy.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profiling of Germin-Like Proteins Reveal Their Role in Regulating Abiotic Stress Response in Potato
Authors: Zaynab Madiha , Peng Jiaofeng , Sharif Yasir , Fatima Mahpara , Albaqami Mohammed , Al-Yahyai Rashid , Khan Khalid Ali , Alotaibi Saqer S. , Alaraidh Ibrahim A. , Shaikhaldein Hassan O. , Li Shuangfei
Published: February 2022

Germin and germin-like proteins (GLPs) perform a significant role in plants against biotic and abiotic stress. To understand the role of GLPs in potato, a comprehensive genome-wide analysis was performed in the potato genome. This study identified a total of 70 StGLPs genes in the potato genome, distributed among 11 chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis exhibited that StGLPs were categorized into six groups with high bootstrap values. StGLPs gene structure and motifs analysis showed a relatively well-maintained intron–exon and motif formation within the cognate group. Additionally, several cis-elements in the promoter regions of GLPs were hormones, and stress-responsive and different families of miRNAs target StGLPs. Gene duplication under selection pressure also exhibited positive and purifying selections in StGLPs. In our results, the StGLP5 gene showed the highest expression in response to salt stress among all expressed StGLPs. Totally 19 StGLPs genes were expressed in response to heat stress. Moreover, three genes, StGLP30, StGLP17, and StGLP14, exhibited a relatively higher expression level in the potato after heat treatment. In total, 22 genes expressed in response to abscisic acid (ABA) treatment indicated that ABA performed an essential role in the plant defense or tolerance mechanism to environmental stress. RNA-Seq data validated by RT-qPCR also confirm that the StGLP5 gene showed maximum expression among selected genes under salt stress. Concisely, our results provide a platform for further functional exploration of the StGLPs against salt and heat stress conditions.
Study of Virtual Reality Immersive Technology Enhanced Mathematics Geometry Learning
Authors: Su Yu-Sheng , Cheng Hung-Wei , Lai Chin-Feng
Published: February 2022

Mathematics is an important foundation for the development of science education. In the past, when instructors taught mathematical concepts of geometry shapes, they usually used traditional textbooks and aids to conduct teaching activities, which resulted in students not being able to understand the principles completely. Nowadays, it has become a trend to integrate emerging technologies into mathematics courses and to use digital instructional aids. Emerging technologies can effectively enhance students’ sensory experience while strengthening their impressions and understandings of subject concepts. In this paper, we apply virtual reality immersive technologies to develop a “virtual reality immersive learning mathematics geometry system,” which is used to teach mathematical geometry concepts. Teachers use the system to develop three basic mathematical geometry learning materials: “Triangular pyramid volume = 1/3 prism volume,” “Cone volume calculation,” and “Triangle center of gravity derivation.” In the experimental activity, the teacher uses virtual reality teaching aids to guide students to learn mathematical geometry concepts in a fun way so that they can achieve the effectiveness of immersive learning. This study explores the impact of using the virtual reality immersive learning mathematics geometry system on students’ technology acceptance, learning motivations, and learning performance. The experimental result showed that using the virtual reality immersive learning mathematics geometry system can improve the learning motivation and learning performance of students. The findings indicated that the experimental group had better learning outcomes after completing the learning tasks of three geometric units. The experimental group used the virtual reality immersive learning mathematics geometry system which can lead to better learning outcomes. According to the ARCS questionnaire, students in the experimental group were confident to understand new subjects. At the same time, the mode of completing the game can effectively give students a sense of accomplishment. The use of emerging technologies in the classroom can be an attractive learning mode for students.
Online Versus Classroom Teaching: Impact on Teacher and Student Relationship Quality and Quality of Life
Authors: Vagos Paula , Carvalhais Lénia
Published: February 2022

The student-teacher relationship (STR) has been consistently associated to positive and generalized outcomes, though its quality seems to be questioned in online teaching, which in turn has had a negative impact on students and teachers’ wellbeing during school closures forced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The current work compared students and teachers’ perceptions of STR quality and quality of life after online and after classroom teaching, and if STR quality relates with perceived wellbeing across those teaching modalities. Participants were 47 teachers (61.7% female, Mage = 47.85) and 56 students (48.2% female, Mage = 13.13), who self-reported on the quality of STR and quality of life twice: after 3 months of online teaching and after 3 months of classroom teaching. Quality of life remained stable across teaching modalities. Teachers perceived no differences in teacher-student quality across both moments; students perceived higher conflict after classroom teaching. Closeness in STR associated with increased wellbeing and the reverse was true for conflict, though diverse domains of quality of life were implicated across timings and across teachers and students. These findings concur to online teaching being an impersonal experience for students, where conflict is lower due to the absence of social stimuli; alternatively, teachers may be urged to use the STR as a resource to sustain better positive outcomes even when teaching online, both for them and for their students.
Depressive and Anxious Temperaments as Predictors of Late Onset Bipolar Disorder? Preliminary Results of a “Real World” Exploratory Study
Authors: Orsolini Laura , Menculini Giulia , Tempia Valenta Silvia , Fiorani Michele , Rocchetti David , Salvi Virginio , Tortorella Alfonso , Volpe Umberto
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Bipolar disorder (BD) onset typically occurs between 15 and 30 years, being diagnosed under the age of 50 in 90% of cases, named “non-late onset BD” (non-LOBD). However, clinical observation of late-onset BD (LOBD) raised some concern regarding a differential psychopathological pattern, outcomes and treatment, including a specific affective temperament vulnerability. Therefore, an exploratory study in the “real world” was carried out by investigating psychopathological and temperamental features of a psychogeriatric cohort of LOBD and non-LOBD subjects.

Methods

A total of 180 patients affected with BD-I, BD-II, and Cyclothymic Disorder were screened in a Mood Disorder Outpatient Service, during the timeframe January 2019-August 2021. Out of 78 enrolled outpatients, 66 (33 non-LOBD, 33 LOBD) were recruited, by the retrospective collection of sociodemographic, cognitive, psychopathological and clinical assessment, including the short-version of the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, and San Diego (TEMPS-M).

Results

LOBD is significantly associated with higher rates of BD-II diagnosis (χ2= 27.692,p< 0.001), depressive episodes (p= 0.025), mixed states (p= 0.009), predominant depressive and anxious affective temperaments (p< 0.001). Non-LOBD is significantly associated with higher endocrinological (χ2= 6.988,p= 0.008) and metabolic comorbidity (χ2= 5.987,p= 0.014), a diagnosis of BD-I, manic episodes, and predominant hyperthymic affective temperaments (p= 0.001). GDS (p< 0.001) and MSRS (p= 0.005) scores were significantly higher in LOBD.

Conclusion

Further longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes and a control group are needed to determine whether LOBD may represent a distinct psychopathological entity from non-LOBD and evaluate differences (if any) in terms of prognosis and treatment between non-LOBD and LOBD.
Lithium in Drinking Water as a Public Policy for Suicide Prevention: Relevance and Considerations
Authors: Araya Pablo , Martínez Camila , Barros Jorge
Published: February 2022

Although suicide is considered a major preventable cause of mortality worldwide, we do not have effective strategies to prevent it. Lithium has been consistently associated with lowering risk of suicide. This effect could occur at very low concentrations, such as trace doses of lithium in tap water. Several ecological studies and recent meta-analysis have suggested an inverse association between lithium in water and suicide in the general population, with a lack of knowledge of clinically significant side effects. This paper is aimed as a proposal to discuss the addition of lithium to drinking water to decrease the suicide rate. For this, we review the evidence available, use previous experiences, such as water fluoridation to prevent dental caries, and discuss the complexity involved in such a public policy. Considering the limited data available and the controversies contained in this proposal, we suggest that a consensus on lithium concentration in water is needed, where the suicide rates start to reduce, as happened with water fluoridation. This measure will require to develop community-controlled trials with strict monitoring of any side effects, where democratic procedures would constitute one of the most appropriate ways to validate its implementation according to the reality of each community.
Factors Associated With Home Births in Benin and Mali: Evidence From the Recent Demographic and Health Surveys
Authors: Bado Aristide Romaric , Badolo Hermann , Johnson Ermel , Komboigo Evelyne Bewendin , Padonou Sètondji Géraud R. , Diawara Fatou
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Identifying and understanding the factors associated with homebirths can contribute to improving maternal and child health and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study aimed to perform a comparative analysis of the factors associated with homebirths in Benin and Mali.

Method

This study is based on the most recent data from the Demographic Health Surveys conducted in Mali and Benin in 2018. The dependent variable was homebirth, and the explanatory variables were the individual characteristics of the woman, the distance to the health center, the place of residence, the number of prenatal consultations had, the frequency of media exposure, and the use of the Internet. The primary survey unit (PSU) was considered in the analysis to measure the effect of context on the choice of the place of delivery. Further, descriptive statistics and multilevel logistic regression analysis were used in the study.

Results

Educational level was associated with homebirth in Benin and Mali; Women with either no education or primary education are more likely to give birth at home. Women who didn't live close to a health facility were more likely to give birth at home than those who didn't face this problem in both countries. Not making visits for antenatal care (ANC) increases the odds of having a homebirth by 31.3 times (CI = 24.10–40.70) in Benin and 12.91 times (CI = 10.21–16.33) in Mali. Similarly, women who went on 1–2 ANC visits were more likely to give birth at home compared with women who made five or more ANC visits in both countries. The number of children per woman was also a significant factor in both countries. Women who often or regularly paid attention to the media messages were less likely to give birth at home compared with those who did not follow relevant media inputs (aOR = 0.42 [CI = 0.26–0.67] in Benin and aOR = 0.65 [CI = 0.50–0.85] in Mali).

Conclusion

Increasing the demand and uptake of women's health services by improving the availability and quality of services and establishing community health centers could help reduce the incidence of homebirths that can be risky and, thus, combat maternal and infant mortality.
Urban Agriculture in Latin America: A Green Culture Beyond Growing and Feeding
Authors: Castellarini Fabiana
Published: February 2022

Over the coming decades, the level of urbanization in Latin America (LA) is expected to increase nearly 90%, with unwanted consequences such as accentuated socio-economic inequalities, food insecurity, violence, and environmental and health crises. In LA countries, urban agriculture (UA) has been adopted as one of the major strategies to address urban poverty and food insecurity, which have increased for different drivers, such as population growth, economic crises, or forced migration. Nevertheless, experience in these countries has demonstrated that urban agriculture is a complex activity that involves multiple benefits, risks, actors, processes, scales, and interactions. In this review, I analyse urban agriculture in LA countries using the ecosystems services framework as a tool to integrate UA functionalities and the four sustainability dimensions. I considered five issues derived from plant production: (1) ecosystem services, benefits, assets, drivers, and stakeholders in UA; (2) ecosystem services bundles; (3) economic and socio-cultural factors associated with the ecosystem services bundles; (4) research progress in LA countries; (5) issues and possible strategic directions in decision-making of UA in the LA region. Using proxy variables, a total of 17 ecosystem services, six benefits, six assets, and six indirect drivers were recognized. Projections of the 17 variables over the four dimensions of sustainable development showed that the environmental dimension was most studied than the social, economic, and governance dimensions. Most of strengths of UA in LA were related to ecosystem services, benefits, and beneficiaries; main weaknesses were related to the misuse of inputs, and human and environmental health; threats were related to regulation, governance and land tenure issues, and opportunities to several topics related to the four dimensions of sustainability. The concepts, frameworks, and methods used in this study may be effective tools to make scientific information available to managers and decision makers.
A Comparison of Two Peripheral Nerve Blocks Combined With General Anesthesia in Elderly Patients Undergoing Arthroplasty for Hip Fractures: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhang Qingfu , Ling Ming , Wang Xintao , Cui Derong
Published: February 2022

Background

Combined anesthesia can be a promising option for hip surgery when neuraxial anesthesia is contraindicated. Lumbar and sacral plexus blocks, and femoral nerve and lateral femoral cutaneous (LFC) nerve blocks in combination with general anesthesia (GA) are commonly used in elderly patients undergoing arthroplasty for hip fracture surgery. However, no study has compared these two anesthetic strategies in the perioperative period.

Methods

A total of 41 elderly patients scheduled for arthroplasty for hip fracture surgery were randomized into group A (n = 20) and group B (n = 21). Group A received femoral nerve block, LFC nerve blocks, and GA, and group B received lumbar plexus block, sacral plexus block, and GA. Primary outcomes were incidences of hemodynamic events and changes in blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR). Secondary outcomes included time and drug consumption, infusion and bleeding volume, eyes opening time after surgery, and postoperative quality recovery rate.

Results

Compared with group B, group A showed a lower incidence of intraoperative hypotension (p < 0.001), higher BP [including mean arterial pressure (MAP), systolic BP (SBP), and diastolic BP (DBP)] following induction (IN), and higher HR from mid-surgery. Time required for nerve blockade (p < 0.001) and ephedrine consumption was significantly shorter in group A (p < 0.001), while sufentanil consumption was higher as compared to group B (p = 0.002). No significant differences in other intraoperative parameters and postoperative quality recovery rate were reported during the observation.

Conclusion

Our pilot data indicate that compared with lumbar and sacral plexus blocks, femoral nerve and LFC nerve blocks may provide more stable intraoperative hemodynamics and a comparable postoperative recovery for elderly patients undergoing arthroplasty for hip fracture under GA. Further studies with a larger sample size are needed to derive stronger evidence.
Reoperation for Recurrent Adrenocortical Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis of Population-Based Studies
Authors: Zhang Fan , Liu Zhihong , Feng Dechao , Tang Yongquan , Liu Shenzhuo , Wu Kan , Zhang Fuxun , Zhu Yuchun , Lu Yiping
Published: February 2022

Background

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare neoplasm with a high recurrence rate. This study aimed to assess the role of surgery in the clinical management of recurrent ACC.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched, and the hazard ratios were pooled.

Results

Patients who underwent resection for recurrence had significantly better OS or OS after recurrence than those who received only nonsurgical treatments (HR 0.34, p < 0.001). Prognostic factors were associated with decreased OS after recurrence, including multiple recurrence (HR 3.23, p = 0.001), shorter disease-free interval (HR 2.94, p < 0.001), stage III-IV of the original tumor (HR 6.17, p = 0.001), sex of male (HR 1.35, p = 0.04), and initial non-R0 resection (HR 2.13, p = 0.001). Prolonged OS after recurrence was observed in those who experienced incomplete resection (HR 0.43, 95% CI 0.31–0.52, I2 = 53%) compared with patients who only received nonsurgical treatments. In the reoperated group, patients who underwent complete resection of recurrence had a prolonged OS after recurrence compared with those who underwent incomplete resection (HR 0.23, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

We confirmed the role of reoperation in the clinical management of recurrent ACC. Select patients might benefit from debulking surgery. The preoperative evaluation of the complete resection of the recurrence is the key means to decide whether patients should undergo surgery. Other prognostic factors associated with prolonged OS include single recurrence site, relatively longer disease-free interval, stage I-II of the original tumor, and female sex.
Effect of Lung Protective Ventilation Combined With Flurbiprofen Axetil on Immune Function During Thoracoscopic Radical Resection of Lung Cancer
Authors: Yuan Jia , Cen Shenghua , Li Jingjing , Wang Kun , Chen Qixu , Li Hongbin , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2022

The decreased immune function of patients with lung cancer has always been the focus of clinical attention. However, the stress response caused by surgery, anesthesia and pain will further reduce the body's immune function and affect the prognosis of patients to a certain extent. It was found that both protective ventilation and flurbiprofen ester pretreatment could reduce the immunosuppression caused by stress response. In this study, 120 lung cancer patients treated with video-assisted thoracoscopic radical resection were divided into group A, group B, group C and group D, which were treated with conventional mechanical ventilation, lung protective ventilation, conventional mechanical ventilation + flurbiprofen axetil and lung protective ventilation + flurbiprofen axetil, respectively. The results showed that the levels of CD3+, CD4+, CD4/CD8+, and NK in groups A, B, and C were lower than T0 on T1, T2, and T3, while those indicators in group D were lower than T0 on T1 and T2 (P < 0.05). The above indicators in group D were higher than those in the other three groups on T1, T2, and T3 (P < 0.05). The above indicators were statistically significant compared with those in group A and group C, group B and group D, and group A and group B at T1, T2, and T3 (P < 0.05). The comparisons of CD3+, CD4+, CD4/CD8+, and NK among the four groups within different time groups, and the repeated - measures analysis of variance (repeated - measures ANOVA) showed that there were interactions among time, group, and between groups × within groups (P < 0.05). It was confirmed that lung protective ventilation combined with flurbiprofen axetil could alleviate the immunosuppression of patients undergoing thoracoscopic radical lung cancer, providing a new idea for clinical treatment.
The Impact of Overstocking and Negative Energy Balance on Quantitative Measurement of Non-typhoidal Salmonella in Periparturient Dairy Cattle
Authors: Muñoz-Vargas Lohendy , Pempek Jessica A. , Proudfoot Kathryn , Eastridge Maurice L. , Rajala-Schultz Päivi J. , Wittum Thomas , Habing Gregory
Published: February 2022

Stressful conditions in animal production facilities may exacerbate the fecal shedding and foodborne transmission of non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica. Dairy cows are reservoirs of this zoonotic microorganism, and its prevalence has roughly doubled in the past decade on dairy farms in United States. Dairy cows are commonly overstocked at the feed bunk, and stressors placed on the animal prior to parturition may exacerbate Salmonella shedding. However, no studies have evaluated the impact of overstocking and metabolic stress on fecal concentrations of the pathogen. Therefore, we conducted a field trial with 120 multiparous dairy cows randomized into one of four treatment groups with different stocking densities at the feed bunk during the periparturient period as follows: US, understocked from −60 to −1 DRC; OS, overstocked from −60 to −1 DRC; USOS, understocked from −60 to −26 DRC/overstocked from −25 to −1 DRC; and OSUS, overstocked from −60 to −26 DRC/ understocked from −25 to −1 DRC. Fecal and blood samples were collected at four time points relative to calving. qPCR assays were used to quantify Salmonella invA gene and total bacterial community from fecal samples, and a subset of isolates recovered from fecal bacterial culture were characterized using pulsed field gel electrophoresis and serotyping. Serum non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured as a metabolic stress indicator using an immunoassay. Multivariable analyses were performed to test if changes in Salmonella concentrations were associated with stocking density, energy balance, or days relative to calving. From fecal isolates, three Salmonella serovars were identified, S. Cerro; Kentucky; Meleagridis. Concentrations of Salmonella increased as cows approached calving. Higher stocking densities at the feed bunk did not impact total bacterial community or NEFA; however, cows in the overstocked groups had higher Salmonella fecal concentrations. Further, cows with higher NEFA concentrations after calving had a higher likelihood of detection of Salmonella. Future farm interventions should aim to reduce environmental and metabolic stress during the periparturient period to decrease the dissemination of Salmonella to cattle, the environment, and humans.
Urban Air Chemistry in Changing Times
Authors: Hidy George M.
Published: February 2022

Urban air chemistry is characterized by measurements of gas and aerosol composition. These measurements are interpreted from a long history for laboratory and theoretical studies integrating chemical processes with reactant (or emissions) sources, meteorology and air surface interaction. The knowledge of these latter elements and their changes have enabled chemists to quantitatively account for the averages and variability of chemical indicators. To date, the changes are consistent with dominating energy-related emissions for more than 50 years of gas phase photochemistry and associated reactions forming and evolving aerosols. Future changes are expected to continue focusing on energy resources and transportation in most cities. Extreme meteorological conditions combined with urban surface exchange are also likely to become increasingly important factors affecting atmospheric composition, accounting for the past leads to projecting future conditions. The potential evolution of urban air chemistry can be followed with three approaches using observations and chemical transport modeling. The first approach projects future changes using long term indicator data compared with the emission estimates. The second approach applies advanced measurement analysis of the ambient data. Examples include statistical modeling or evaluation derived from chemical mechanisms. The third method, verified with observations, employs a comparison of the deterministic models of chemistry, emission futures, urban meteorology and urban infrastructure changes for future insight.