bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Qualitative Analysis of Feelings and Experiences Associated With Perinatal Distress During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jones Katie , Harrison Virginia , Moulds Michelle L.
Published: September 2021

Background: Rates of perinatal psychological difficulties (experienced during pregnancy and the twelve-months postpartum) increased dramatically worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the UK, anxiety and depression were estimated to affect more than half of perinatal women during the first national lockdown. However, little is known about women’s qualitative experiences of distress and the sources of their symptoms. This study aimed to extend quantitative research to qualitatively explore: 1) the psychological symptoms associated with maternal perinatal distress during the COVID-19 pandemic; and 2) the associated psychosocial stressors, in order to guide future preventative and supportive interventions.Methods: As part of an online survey during May 2020, 424 perinatal women completed an open-ended question regarding a recent experience of distress. Qualitative data was analysed using inductive thematic analysis from a realist stance and explored in the context of perinatal anxiety and depression scores.Results: Thematic analysis of the data identified thirteen distinct symptom-related themes of psychological distress. Despite the high rates of probable depression in the sample, women’s descriptions of symptoms were more indicative of anxiety and general distress, rather than those traditionally related to depression. Furthermore, qualitative experiences of distress differed between pre- and postnatal women. In terms of the associated psychosocial stressors, six themes emerged. Three were related to COVID-19, and three described general motherhood experiences unrelated to the pandemic context. Psychological conflict between maternal expectations and the reality of pregnancy and motherhood, and fears surrounding family health, safety, and wellbeing underlay many of the themes. Conclusions: Interventions to support perinatal wellbeing may benefit from a transdiagnostic approach focusing on a multitude of symptoms, particularly those associated with anxiety and general distress. Support should also aim to develop healthy expectations of perinatal experiences, as well as provide psychoeducation to alleviate fears in pregnancy and early motherhood to help reduce maternal distress. This paper also highlights some of the traumatic COVID-related stressors which should be addressed to reduce enduring and recurrent episodes of trauma whilst presenting various opportunities to better support perinatal women should future pandemic restrictions be required.
Modelling Kidney Outcomes Based On MELD Eras - Impact of MELD Score In Renal Endpoints After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Lins Paulo Ricardo Gessolo , Narciso Roberto Camargo , Ferraz Leonardo Rolim , Pereira Virgilio Gonçalves , Ferraz-Neto Ben-Hur , Almeida Marcio Dias , Santos Bento Fortunato Cardoso Dos , Pavão Oscar Fernando , Monte Júlio Cesar Martins , Júnior Marcelino Souza Durão , Batista Marcelo Costa
Published: September 2021

Background: Acute kidney injury is a common complication in solid organ transplants, notably liver transplantation. The MELD is a score validated to predict mortality of cirrhotic patients, which is also used for organ allocation, however the influence of this allocation criteria on AKI incidence and mortality after liver transplantation is still uncertain.Methods: This is a retrospective single center study of a cohort of patients submitted to liver transplant in a tertiary Brazilian hospital: Jan/2002 to Dec/2013, divided in two groups, before and after MELD implementation (pre MELD and post MELD). We evaluate the differences in AKI based on KDIGO stages and mortality rates between the two groups. Results: 874 patients were included, 408 in pre-MELD and 466 in the post MELD era. The proportion of patients that developed AKI was lower in the post MELD era (p 0.04), although renal replacement therapy requirement was more frequent in this group (p<0.01). Overall mortality rate at 28, 90 and 365 days was respectively 7%, 11% and 15%. The 1-year mortality rate was lower in the post MELD era (20% vs. 11%, p<0.01). AKI incidence was 50% lower in the post MELD era even when adjusted for clinically relevant covariates (p<0.01). Conclusion: Liver transplants performed in the post MELD era had a lower incidence of AKI, although there were more cases requiring dialysis. 1-year mortality was lower in the post MELD era, suggesting that patient care was improved during this period.
Genetic Control of Rhizosphere Microbiome of Cotton Plant Under Field Conditions
Authors: Wei Feng , Feng Zili , Yang Chuanzhen , Zhao Lihong , Zhang Yalin , Feng Hongjie , Zhu Heqin , Xu Xiangming
Published: September 2021

Background: Understanding the extent of heritability of plant-associated microbiome (phytobiome) is critical for exploitation of phytobiome in agriculture. Two crosses were made between pairs of cotton cultivars with differential resistance to the Verticillium wilt. F2 plants were grown together with the four parents to study the heritability of cotton rhizosphere microbiome. Amplicon sequencing was used to profile bacterial and fungal communities.Results: F2 hybrid offspring of both crosses had higher alpha diversity indices as well as greater variability than the two parents. Two types of data were used generated to study the heritability of rhizosphere microbiome: principal components (PCs) and individual top microbial OTUs. For the L1×Z49 cross, the variance among the 100 progeny genotypes (VT) was significantly greater than the random variability (VE) for 12 and 34 out of top 100 fungal and bacterial PCs, respectively. For the Z2×J11 cross, the corresponding values were 10 and 20 PCs. Out of the top 100 OTUs, 29 fungal OTUs and 10 bacterial OTUs had VT that was significantly greater than VE for the L1×Z49 cross; the corresponding value for the Z2×J11 cross were 24 and one. The estimated heritability was mostly in the range of 40% to 60%.Conclusions: These results suggested the existence of genetic control in terms of rhizosphere microbiome in cotton.
WITHDRAWN: Novel Insights Into Heat Tolerance Using Microbiome and Metabolomics Analyses in Dairy Cows Rumen Fluid
Authors: Wang Zichen , Liu Leizhen , Pang Fanglin , Zheng Zhuo , Teng Zhanwei , Miao Ting , Fu Tong , Rushdi Hossam Eldin , Yang Liguo , Gao Tengyun , Liu Shenhe , Lin Feng
Published: September 2021

Background: Heat stress is a key issue of growing concern for livestock industry worldwide due to its negative effects not only on milk production, fertility, health, welfare, and economic returns of dairy cows, but also on the microbial communities in the rumen. However, the underlying relationship between rumen microbiome and its associated metabolism with heat tolerance in cow have not been extensively described yet. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to investigate differential heat resistance in Holstein cows using rumen microbiome and metabolome analyses.Methods: We performed both principal component analysis and membership function analysis to select 7 heat-tolerant (HT) and 7 heat-sensitive (HS) cows. The ruminal fluid samples of two groups were collected at two hours post feeding on 7th day of heat stress period, for analyses including rumen fermentation parameters, rumen microbiome and nontargeted metabolomics.Results: Under heat stress conditions, the HT cows had a significantly higher propionic acid content than the HS cows; whereas measures of the respiratory rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT), acetic,butyric acid and acetic acid to propionic acid ratio (A:P) in the HT cows were lower compared with the HS cows. Omics sequencing revealed that the relative abundance of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Succiniclasticum, Ruminococcaceae_NK4A214_group and Christensenellaceae_R-7_group were significantly higher in the HT than HS cows; whereas Prevotella_1, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-014, and Shuttleworthia were significantly higher in the HS cows compared to HT cows. Substances mainly involved in carbohydrate metabolism, including glycerol, mannitol, and maltose, showed significantly higher content in the HT cows compared to that in the HS cows. Simultaneously, RR was significantly correlated with both differential microorganisms and distinct metabolites, suggesting three metabolites could be potential biomarkers for determining heat resistance that require further research.Conclusion: Overall, distinct changes in the rumen microbiome and metabolomics in the HT cows may be associated with better adaptability to heat stress. These findings suggest their use as diagnostic tools of heat tolerance in dairy cattle breeding schemes.
Prevalence and Radiographic Characteristics of Non-syndromic Supernumerary Teeth in a Shanghai Dental Hospital Pediatric Population: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Fei Yue , Huang Xiao , Liu Shangfeng , Feng Jinqiu
Published: September 2021

Background Epidemiological studies can promote the further understanding of the characteristics of non-syndromic supernumerary teeth(ST) and provide references for the clinical work and the basic research in the future. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and radiographic characteristics of non-syndrome supernumerary teeth (ST) in pediatric patients attending one Shanghai hospital.MethodsCone beam computed tomography (CBCT) of 639 subjects diagnosed with non-syndromic ST among 255259 pediatric patients visiting Shanghai Stomatology Hospital were analyzed to evaluate the number, morphology, location, orientation and sagittal position of supernumerary teeth. The profile of patients and radiographic characteristics were collected. Pearson’s Chi-square test and Fisher exact test were employed to estimate the potential relationships between categorical covariates.ResultsThe overall prevalence of ST was 0.25%, and the male: female ratio was 3.07:1. Most ST were single, with a conical shape and vertical orientation, located in maxillary anterior region, palatally/lingually positioned in sagittal plain and detected in mixed dentition. Malposition of adjacent permanent teeth was most common complication. The morphology of ST was significantly correlated with development and eruption of the adjacent permanent teeth, while the orientation was only associated with malposition of neighboring teeth. ConclusionsThe epidemiological and radiographic data in this study can be applied as a reference for characterization understanding and clinical treatment planning of ST in Shanghai children and adolescents.
Barriers To Oral Health Among U.S. Children with Developmental Disorders: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Obeidat Raghad , Noureldin Amal , Bitouni Anneta , Abdellatif Hoda , Lewis-Miranda Shirley , Liu Shuling , Badner Victor , Timothé Peggy
Published: September 2021

Background

Children with developmental disorders (DD) have higher rates of oral diseases and tooth decay compared to the general population. Despite that, they often face more barriers to access the needed health care, especially dental care. This study aims to describe the oral health needs (OHN), utilization of dental services, and unmet dental needs of children with developmental disorders (DD) compared to children without developmental disorders (DD); and to assess the impact of access to healthcare factors on the oral health of children with DD.
Methods

This cross-sectional study utilized a sample of 30,530 noninstitutionalized children from the 2018 National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to compare and analyze healthcare barriers in children with and without OHN.
Results

Overall, there were 6,501 children with DD compared to 24,029 children without DD. A significantly higher proportion of children with DD relative to children without DD were found with OHN (20.3% vs. 12.2%, respectively), unmet dental needs (3.5% vs 1.2%), and utilization of any dental visits (86.1% vs 76.1%), (P-value <. 001). The adjusted logistic model found that poverty (< 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (AOR = 2.27, CI: 1.46–3.51), being uninsured (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.14–3.95), a great deal of disability (AOR = 1.89, CI: 1.23–2.78), and living in the West (AOR = 1.61, CI: 1.09–2.37) contributed to the largest odds of OHN among children with DD.
Conclusion

Despite the high utilization of dental services, children with DD had poor oral health and more unmet dental needs compared to children without DD. Advocacy efforts and policy changes are needed for the development of an integrated model of care that addresses health insurance, poverty and considers children’s levels of disability.
An In-Silico Analysis of Acquired Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Plasmids
Authors: Ramazanzadeh Rashid
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The aim of this study to reveal the prevalence of acquired antimicrobial genes in sequences of P. aeruginosa plasmids by using in silico methods.Methods: This study included 828 items with using 'Pseudomonas aeruginosa and plasmid’ keywords for searching in NCBI database. The sequences of 94 plasmids were retrieved from GenBank and analysed for detection of acquired antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes with using ResFinder 2.1 database/webserver, KmerResistance 2.2 database. and ResFinderFG 1.0. Plasmids Sequence were aligned with using MEGA X Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis across Computing Platforms.Results: 67 out of 94 plasmids sequences were qualified as AMR containing plasmids. For detected 9 classes of AMR genes, aminoglycosides 39.6% were highest rate. The next frequencies were beta-lactams (19%), sulphonamides (14.5%), and fluoroquinolones (10.1%). For nine classes of antibiotics, 74 AMR gene were identified. Prevalent of sulphonamide resistance gene Sul1 was 32 out of 277 gene. In AMR plasmids, 6 ARD family were detected. 15 representative genomic sequences selected from each clade and three clades were revealed from them. The relationship of clades with drug resistance was not significant (p-value = 0.682).Conclusions: Analyzing the Information in annotated sequence is reveal the mechanism of spreading of resistance gene in plasmids. Detection the trace of AMR genes in world papulation can help to find more response to question in regards to spread of infection and analysis of AMR gene sequences give more insight to scientist to control of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.
Assessment of Surface Water Quality and Monitoring in Southern Vietnam Using Multicriteria Statistical Approaches
Authors: Nguyen Giao Thanh , Nhien Huynh Thi Hong
Published: September 2021

The study was conducted to analyze water quality fluctuations in the South of Vietnam using monitoring data at 58 locations, measured 8 times per year, analyzing 16 water quality indicators in 2020. The study has used national technical regulations on surface water quality (QCVN 08-MT:2015/BTNMT, column A1), water quality index (WQI), cluster analysis (CA), principal component analysis (PCA) and Entropy weighted methods to analyze surface water quality. The results showed that the water quality was contaminated with organics (low DO while TSS, BOD, COD was high), nutrients (mainly N-NH4+) and Fe. Pb at some locations exceeded the allowable limit. Cd, Hg and As were within the allowable limits of QCVN 08-MT:2015/BTNMT, column A1. DO, TSS, BOD, COD, N-NH4+, Fe, EC, TDS, Cl- were seasonally fluctuated. WQI classified water quality from bad to very good (WQI=42-100) due to the impact of hydrological conditions, navigation, wastewater and waste from industrial zones, and fishing ports. The findings presented that it is possible to reduce the 11 sampling locations of cluster 1-6, reduce the frequency of monitoring from 8 to 5 times per year, while still ensuring representativeness of water quality over time, reducing the monitoring costs by 56.5%. The PCA identified five major potential sources explaining 87.3% and 8 minor sources explaining only 12.7% of water quality variation. Temperature, pH, EC, DO, BOD, COD, N-NH4+, N-NO2-, Fe, Cl-, Pb need to be monitored, while adding indicators P-PO43-, TP, TN, coliforms into the future monitoring program. The study shows that the medium and bad water quality are concentrated in Dong Nai, Ho Chi Minh City and Long An, so the relevant environmental management agencies needs to find solutions to improve the water quality in those areas. The current results can assist in decision-making related to environmental quality monitoring in the southern region of Vietnam.
The Effect of Eye Protection on SARS-CoV-2 Transmission: A Systematic Review
Authors: Byambasuren Oyungerel , Beller Elaine , Clark Justin , Collignon Peter , Glasziou Paul
Published: September 2021

Background: The effect of eye protection to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection in the real-world remains uncertain. We aimed to synthesize all available research on the potential impact of eye protection on transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Methods: We searched PROSPERO, PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library for clinical trials and comparative observational studies in CENTRAL, and Europe PMC for pre-prints. We included studies that reported sufficient data to estimate the effect of any form of eye protection including face shields and variants, goggles, and glasses, on subsequent confirmed infection with SARS-CoV-2.Results: We screened 898 articles and included 6 reports of 5 observational studies from 4 countries (USA, India, Columbia, and United Kingdom) that tested face shields, goggles, and wraparound eyewear on 7567 healthcare workers. The three before-and-after and one retrospective cohort studies showed statistically significant and substantial reductions in SARS-CoV-2 infections favouring eye protection with odds ratios ranging from 0.04 to 0.6, corresponding to relative risk reductions of 96% to 40%. These reductions were not explained by changes in the community rates. However, the one case-control study reported odds ratio favouring no eye protection (OR 1.7, 95% CI 0.99, 3.0). The high heterogeneity between studies precluded any meaningful meta-analysis. None of the studies adjusted for potential confounders such as other protective behaviours, thus increasing the risk of bias, and decreasing the certainty of evidence to very low.Conclusions: Current studies suggest that eye protection may play a role in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthcare workers. However, robust comparative trials are needed to clearly determine effectiveness of eye protections and wearability issues in both healthcare and general populations.
Regorafenib Combined With Sintilimab Versus Regorafenib as Second-line Treatment for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Jingjun , Guo Yongjian , Huang Wensou , Xu Zining , Lin Liteng , Zhou Jingwen , Liang Licong , Zhang Yaqin , Zhou Juan , Cai Mingyue , Zhu Kangshun
Published: September 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of regorafenib combined with immune checkpoint inhibitor sintilimab (rego-sintilimab) as second-line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients who failed prior sorafenib or lenvatinib.Methods: This retrospective study evaluated consecutive patients with advanced HCC who received rego-sintilimab (rego-sintilimab group) or regorafenib alone (regorafenib group) as second-line treatment from January 2019 to December 2020. Adverse events, objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were compared between the two groups. Results: Eighty-three patients were included: 48 received rego-sintilimab and 35 received regorafenib. Rego-sintilimab group had higher ORR (33.3% vs 14.3%, P =.049), longer PFS (median, 5.1 vs 3.0 months; P =.001), and better OS (median, 13.3 vs 9.1 months; P =.001) than regorafenib group. Regorafenib alone, Child-Pugh B, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) >3.5 were independent prognostic factors for poor OS in uni- and multi-variable analyses. Subgroup analyses showed that, in patients with Child-Pugh A (16.4 vs 11.5 months; P =.005), Child-Pugh B (8.8 vs 6.4 months; P =.032), or NLR ≤3.5 (16.3 vs 11.5 months; P =.012), rego-sintilimab group had significantly better median OS than regorafenib group, whereas median OS was not significantly different between the two groups in patients with NLR >3.5 (8.4 vs 7.0 months; P =.288). The incidences of grade 3/4 adverse events were similar between the two groups (39.4% vs 34.1%; P =.445).Conclusion: Rego-sintilimab was tolerable and led to better OS than regorafenib as second-line treatment for advanced HCC patients, especially in those with NLR ≤3.5.
The Limits of Free Health Care Schemes: the Case of Access to Care for Beneficiaries of the Moroccan Medical Assistance Scheme (RAMed) Suffering From Cancer
Authors: Ferrié Jean-Noël , Ababou Mohammed , Benkirane Wassila , Omary Zineb , Radi Saadia
Published: September 2021

Background: The article discusses the limitations of a free-of-charge scheme for the poor in the case of cancer patients. The literature on free access to hospitals, especially on the African continent, has already mentioned these limits: occasional payments for care and transport. The particularly ambitious Moroccan free-of-charge scheme (RAMEd) presents the same problemsMethods: It is based on a qualitative survey of 120 patients and 30 doctors or nurses with whom we conducted semi-structured interviews over several months.Results: The results show that patients continue to pay for care and medical imaging as well as their transport to the hospital. They pay for care and examinations that are not available at the hospital or wait for them to be available, which is a danger to their chances of survival.Conclusions: The limitation of the RAMed is that it does not cover the cost of transport or the structural deficiencies of the hospital. The result is the paradox of a free service that is costly for patients. We stress that targeted policies cannot replace structural policies and, on their own, do not remedy inequalities, particularly territorial inequalities.
Establishing Patient Perceptions and Preferences for a Journal Authenticator Tool To Support Health Literacy: A Mixed-Methods Survey and Focus Group Study
Authors: Ricketts Alicia , Lalu Manoj M. , Proulx Laurie , Halas Michael , Castillo Gisell , Almoli Elham , Grudniewicz Agnes , Bryson Gregory L. , Moher David , Cobey Kelly
Published: September 2021

Background

Predatory journals are illegitimate journals that do not meet expected publication best practices. Many of these journals can be found using Google, making them readily available to patients searching online for health information. The goal of this study was to obtain information about how patients use the internet to get health information and to determine patient preferences and needs for a journal authenticator tool which would highlight journal transparency practices.
Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of Canadian-based adult patients and caregivers and then a series of online focus groups to further explore the survey responses. Descriptive statistics (counts and percentages) were reported for all quantitative survey items. For text-based responses, we used thematic content analysis. Online focus groups asked patients about the content they would like to see in a journal authenticator tool, how they would like the content visually displayed, how to best share the tool with patients, and how to determine whether the tool was successful over time. Thematic content analysis was conducted to identify core themes discussed. Focus group participants completed a follow-up survey in which they rank ordered the themes identified by perceived importance.
Results

183 participants completed our online survey. A total of 146 (82%) participants indicated they use the internet most often when looking for health information. Sixty-six (37%) indicated they sometimes read original research articles when searching for health information and 92 (52%) participants indicated they sometimes have difficulty knowing if the information they read online is reliable. Eighty-six (49%) participants had never heard of predatory journals. Thirty-nine survey participants indicated their willingness to contribute to subsequent focus groups and a total of 29 participated. Four key topic areas were discussed and 32 themes were identified.
Conclusions

Our findings suggest that patients have expressed a need for a journal authenticator tool and that this tool may provide value to them. The results from this study will help inform the tool’s development to help ensure that it meets the needs of patients.
Trial registration:

This mixed-methods study has been registered on the Open Science Framework: https://osf.io/56ead/
The Effect of Positive Thinking Training on Anxiety and Happiness in the Elderly: a Quasi- Experimental Study
Authors: Pourdavarani Anis , Farokhzadian Jamileh , Forouz Mansooreh Azizzadeh , Shahraki Sedigheh Khodabandeh
Published: September 2021

Background: Anxiety and depression are the most common psychological disorders in the aging period. One of the ways to deal with anxiety and depression and increase happiness in the elderly is to train positive thinking. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate positive thinking skills training on anxiety and happiness in the elderly.Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 48 elderly people referred to two comprehensive health service centers in Kerman in southeastern Iran were selected by convenience sampling method and randomly assigned into intervention groups (n = 24) and control (n = 24). The data collection tools included the Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Oxford Happiness Inventory. Questionnaires were filled out before the intervention, then positive thinking training was held in eight sessions of 90 minutes. After training program, the was conducted one month after it, the follow-up tools.Results: The results showed that the mean score of anxiety before positive thinking training was (13.58 ± 8.61) and (19.25± 11.67) in the intervention and the control group, respectively. After positive thinking training, the mean scores were (4.50 ±4.07) and (15.54±9.04) in the intervention and control group, respectively. After the intervention, which significantly reduced anxiety the intervention, group (t= 8.10, P<0.001). The mean score of happiness before the test was (26.58±12.40) and (37.91 ± 5.57) in the intervention and control groups, respectively. However, the posttest happiness scores of the intervention and control groups were (62.91± 4.66) and (35.62 ±10.62), respectively. The results showed that implementing positive thinking training increased happiness significantly (t=-4.08, P<0.001).Conclusion: Since positive thinking training effect reducing anxiety and increasing happiness in the elderly. Due to the growing trend of the elderly population, the positive thinking training approach can be used as a suitable, cost-effective, and efficient method in reducing anxiety and increasing happiness in the elderly.
On the Occurrences of Critical Waves and Water Levels in the Venice Lagoon: A Statistical Analysis for the Management of the Operativity of the Mose System
Authors: Tomasicchio Giuseppe , Salvadori Gianfausto , Lusito Letizia , Francone Antonio , Frega Ferdinando , Saponieri Alessandra , Leone Elisa , De Bartolo Samuele
Published: September 2021

The particular structure and configuration of the Venice lagoon represents a paramount case study concerning coastal flooding which affects natural, historical/cultural properties, together with industrial, commercial, economical and port activities. In order to defend Venice (and other sites) within the lagoon from severe floods, the Italian Government promoted the construction of a complex hydraulic/maritime system, including a movable storm surge barrier named Experimental Electromechanical Module (MoSE), to be activated when specific water levels occur. When the MoSE barriers are raised, the only access to the lagoon for commercial and cruise ships is represented by the Malamocco lock gate, provided that suitable safety conditions (involving the significant wave height) are satisfied. In addition, the Italian Government has recently established that, in the near future, large ships will always have to enter/exit the lagoon only through the Malamocco gate. In turn, the navigation within the Venice lagoon is (will be) controlled by the combined MoSE-Malamocco system, ruled by both univariate and bivariate paradigms/guidelines. As a novelty, in the present work, for the first time, the statistics of significant wave heights and water levels in the Venice lagoon (both univariate and bivariate ones) are investigated: in particular, these variables turn out to be dependent, and their joint occurrence (statistically modeled via Copulas) can determine the stop of ship navigation, yielding significant economic losses. Here, univariate and bivariate Return Periods and Failure Probabilities are used to thoroughly model the statistical behavior of significant wave heights and water levels, in order to provide useful quantitative indications for the management of the tricky hydraulic, maritime and economical system of the Venice lagoon.
Biomimetic vascularized adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells bone-periosteum graft enhances angiogenesis and osteogenesis in a rabbit spine fusion model
Authors: Fu Tsai-Sheng , Chen Wei-Chuan , Wang Ying-Chih , Chang Chia-Wei , Lin Tung-Yi , Wong Chak-Bor
Published: September 2021

BackgroundSeveral artificial bone grafts have been developed for bone reconstruction but fail to achieve anticipated osteogenesis due to their insufficient neovascularization capacity. Besides, periosteum plays an essential role in the neovascularization process in bone formation and healing. The aim of this study was to develop a cell-based biomimetic vascularized bone-periosteum construct (VBPC) to provide better neovascularization for osteogenesis and bone regeneration.MethodsTwenty-four male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into four groups according to the experimental materials. We first cultured adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) and seeded them evenly in the collagen/chitosan sheet to form an AMSCs-sheet-engineered periosteum. Simultaneously, the AMSCs were seeded onto alginate scaffolds and were cultured to differentiate to endothelial-like cells to form vascularized bone constructs (VBC). The success of endothelial differentiation was confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence staining analysis. The AMSCs-sheet-engineered periosteum was wrapped onto VBC to create biomimetic VBPC, which was then implanted in bilateral L4-5 intertransverse space of rabbit. The acellular alginate-sheet construct, VBC, and non-vascularized AMSCs-alginate-periosteum construct were used as controls. At 12 weeks after implantation, the bone-forming capacities of the constructs were determined by computed tomography, biomechanical testing, histology, and immunohistochemistry staining analyses.ResultsTwelve weeks after implantation, the VBPC group significantly increased new bone formation volume than the control groups. Biomechanical testing demonstrated a higher torque strength in the VBPC group, and suggested that the cell sheet played a critical role for mechanical support. Notably, the hematoxylin and eosin, Masson’s trichrome, and immunohistochemistry stained histologic results revealed that the VBPC group promoted the formation of blood vessels and new bones in the L4-5 intertransverse fusion areas.ConclusionsThe tissue-engineered biomimetic VBPC showed great capability in promoting angiogenesis and osteogenesis in vivo. The VBPC may overcome the deficits of traditional bone grafts. These findings suggest a novel approach to improve the timely formation of blood vessels from bone substitutes and provide an ideal source for bone regeneration.
Tribocatalytically-activated carbon-based tribofilm formation for wear reduction in alkane environment
Authors: Shirani Asghar , Li Yuzhe , Eryilmaz Osman Levent , Berman Diana
Published: September 2021

Minimizing the wear of the surfaces exposed to mechanical shear stresses is an ideal solution to maximizing the lifespan of rotary mechanical parts. In this study, we have discovered the anti-wear capability of a series of metal nitride-copper nanocomposite coatings tested in a liquid hydrocarbon environment. The results indicate substantial reduction of the wear in comparison to the uncoated steel substrate. Analysis of the wear tracks indicates the formation of carbon-based protective films directly at the sliding interface during the tribological tests. Raman spectroscopy mapping of the wear track suggests the amorphous carbon (a-C) nature of the formed film. Further analysis of the tribocatalytic activity activation as a function of load (0.25-1 N) and temperature (25°C, and 50°C) was performed in three alkane solutions, decane, dodecane, and hexadecane. Results indicated that elevated temperature and high contact pressure result in more stable friction behavior of the coating. The elemental energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy analysis and Raman analyses reveal how a-C film facilities easy shearing at the contact interface thus enabling more stable friction and lower wear at higher loads and elevated temperature. These results provide new insights into the tribocatalysis mechanism that enables the formation of zero-wear coatings.
In-situ oxygen-generation nanoplatform with dual amplification effect for combined chemo-photodynamic therapy
Authors: Song Qingcheng , Deng Xiangtian , Yang Wenbo , Zhang Yiran , Li Junyong , Xing Xin , Chen Wei , Liu Weijian , Hu Hongzhi , Zhang Yingze
Published: September 2021

Background

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising method for cancer treatment because of its advantages such as easy operation, good targeting, minimal side effects, low systemic toxicity and less invasiveness. However, the hypoxic microenvironment within the tumor significantly inhibited the therapeutic effect of PDT. The development of targeted nanoplatform for regulating hypoxia microenvironment is an important method to give full play to the therapeutic effect of PDT.
Methods

In this study, we designed and prepared a novel chemo-photodynamic therapy nanoplatform, which can continuously catalyze the decomposition of H2O2 in tumors to generate oxygen (O2) to enhance the therapeutic effect of PDT, resulting in DNA damage, while releasing MTH1 inhibitors in tumor cells to inhibit the repair process of DNA damage caused by PDT.
Results

In our work, a simple one-step reduction approach was applied to enable platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) growth in situ in the nanochannels of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs). After physical encapsulation of photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) and MTH1 inhibitor TH588, the drug loading nanoplatform was modified with an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) functionalized liposome shell, resulting in the fabrication of multifunctional nanoplatform MSN-Pt@Ce6/TH588@Liposome-RGD (MPCT@Li-R) with dual amplification effect and achieve the purpose of chemo-photodynamic therapy.
Conclusions

Our study provides a new strategy for PDT to ablation tumor cells by damaging the DNA of tumor nucleus and mitochondria, meanwhile inhibiting the repair process after the damage.
The effects of multi-heavy metals mixture on blood and antioxidant defense system of mice
Authors: Sani Ali , Darma Aminu Inuwa , Imam Fatima Adam , Usman Bilkisu Musa
Published: September 2021

Heavy metals are widespread in all parts of the environments, thereby polluting soil, water, and biota and finally causing harm to human health. However, humans are prone to a mixture of elements other than a single element. Thus, the study was aimed at determining the hematological indices and oxidative response from exposure to a mixture of multi-elements in mice. Twenty-five (25) male mice were grouped into 5 groups of 1mg Cd (Group I), 1mg Pb (Group II), 2mg Cd + 1mg Pb (Group III), 2mg Pb + 1mg Cd (Group IV) all /kg b.w amended mouse chows and control (Group V), were administered. Following euthanization, blood samples were collected into the EDTA bottle for hematological analysis and plain bottles to harvest serum for serum Catalase (CAT) and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) assays. Results showed that 10 days of exposure to a metals mixture, have led to weight loss, loss of appetite and hematological alterations whereby the metal mixtures showed more profound toxicity on RBC (red blood cell) count, and individual metals showed more on WBC (white blood cell) and PLT (platelet) counts. Similarly, Pb and Cd mixtures were able to induce greater oxidative stress reflected by the rise in SOD and CAT. Therefore, it was concluded that exposure to multi-elements (Cd & Pb combined) in mice has higher toxicity potentials to hematological indices and oxidative stress markers which include SOD and CAT. Further studies should be carried out on other metals mixture, and their genetic, environmental, and biochemical indices.
Academic success online: The mediating role of self-efficacy on personality and academic performance
Authors: Code Jillianne , Zap Nick , Ralph Rachel
Published: September 2021

Academic success in any context is dependent upon a student's belief in their ability to succeed. While learning online, a students’ self-efficacy is affected by their confidence in their ability to interact within the online environment. With the proliferation of personalized learning and the growth of Massive Open Online Courses, this growing trend is a shift in focus from the centralized brick-and-mortar locus of control, to one of enabling student choice and agency for how, when, and where they learn. In the pre-pandemic setting, this research study examined the personality types of students enrolled in eight sections of four online courses in educational technology, and the role self-efficacy for learning online played in their academic performance. Key findings reveal that personality affects learners’ academic achievement is moderately significant, self-efficacy for online learning affects learners’ academic achievement in a small but significant way, and student conscientiousness and academic performance were significantly and fully mediated by self-efficacy for learning online while controlling for gender and English language proficiency. There were no mediation effects with the other personality traits. A discussion around learning design strategies is provided. The authors recommend that institutions adopt more flexible learning options for teaching and learning that include both online and blended learning options that provide student’s choice and agency over the learning experience but also enable the institution to be better equipped for what the uncertain future of education holds.
Unique iris and pupil morphology in lamnid sharks
Authors: Burt Megan , Skomal Greg , Dubielzig Richard
Published: September 2021

Documentation of the iris concentrating on color, pupillary shape, and orientation has been reported in a number of elasmobranch species, but has not been documented in lamnid sharks. This study examined the eyes of three lamnid sharks, white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus), and porbeagle shark (Lamna nasus) to characterize the iris color and pupil shape. All three species possess a brown color iris circling a horizontal slit pupil. A blue limbal ring of color circles the iris caused by the sclera and cartilage from the limbus which extends into the anterior chamber of the eye. The unique characteristics of the iris and pupil shape are described and implications of these findings on future research are discussed.
Far-UVC efficiently inactivates an airborne pathogen in a room-sized chamber
Authors: Eadie Ewan , Hiwar Waseem , Fletcher Louise , Tidswell Emma , O’Mahoney Paul , Buonanno Manuela , Welch David , Adamson Catherine S. , Brenner David J. , Noakes Catherine , Wood Kenneth
Published: September 2021

Many infectious diseases, including COVID-19, are transmitted by airborne pathogens. There is a need for effective environmental control measures which, ideally, are not reliant on human behaviour. One potential solution is Far-UVC which can efficiently inactivate pathogens, such as coronaviruses and influenza, in air. When appropriately filtered, and because of its limited penetration, there is evidence that Far-UVC does not induce acute reactions in the skin or eyes, nor delayed effects such as skin cancer. While there is laboratory evidence for far-UVC efficacy, there is limited evidence in full-sized rooms. In the first study of its type, we show that Far-UVC deployed in a room-sized chamber effectively inactivates aerosolised Staphylococcus aureus. At a room ventilation rate of 3 air changes per hour (ACH), with 5 filtered sources the steady-state pathogen load was reduced by 92.1% providing an additional 35 equivalent air changes (eACH). This reduction was achieved using Far-UVC intensities consistent with current regulatory limits. Far-UVC is likely to be more effective against common airborne viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, and should thus be an effective and “hands-off” technology to reduce airborne disease transmission. The findings provide room-scale data to support the design and development of safe and effective Far-UVC systems.
Habilidades para la vida. Aproximaciones conceptuales
Authors:   Universidad Católica Luis Amigó, Parra Espitia Laura Stella , Cardona Isaza Arcadio de Jesús , Toro Vélez Sebastián ,   Corporación Universitaria Unicomfacauca, Torres Escobar Germán Andrés , Martínez Correa Roger ,   Organización Internacional para las Migraciones, Morales Arrieta Diana Margarita , De Salvador Gloria Inés
Published: September 2021

En 1993, la Organización Mundial de la Salud propuso un enfoque de desarrollo psicosocial denominado Habilidades para la vida; su objetivo era prevenir e intervenir en problemas relacionados con el consumo de drogas, la delincuencia y los comportamientos sexuales de riesgo, entre otros. Desde entonces, se han implementado programas basados en este enfoque para abordar diversas situaciones de riesgo. El libro “Habilidades para la vida. Aproximaciones conceptuales” presenta aportes teóricos actualizados de las Habilidades para la vida, que incluyen las habilidades cognitivas, emocionales y sociales, con una perspectiva orientada a favorecer la salud mental y el crecimiento humano. Los aportes teóricos expuestos pueden ayudar a los profesionales psicosociales como psicólogos, pedagogos, terapeutas familiares y otros actores que trabajan con personas en riesgo psicosocial. Asimismo, constituyen una base conceptual para fundamentar el enfoque de Habilidades para la vida.
Flood vulnerability assessment using data envelopment analysis – the case of Narmada river basin districts in central India
Authors: Pathak Shefali Dubey , Kulshrestha Mukul , Kulshreshtha Mudit
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a data envelopment analysis (DEA)-based framework for estimating the flood vulnerabilities in river basins. The methodology has been exemplified for the 21 districts of the Narmada river basin in central India. Sensitivity and adaptive capacity indicators have been identified and used for the development of the Flood Vulnerability Index (FVI). DEA-based study was employed to assess the Scale Efficiencies and the Returns to Scale and insights drawn from the analysis have been discussed in the context of policy and planning related to reduction of flood vulnerabilities. Cluster analysis has also been deployed to classify districts in terms of flood vulnerabilities. Results from the flood vulnerability assessment model case study indicate that 76% of the districts in the Narmada river basin remain highly vulnerable to flood-risk, while the socio-economic parameters and physical sizes of districts and their resources play a crucial role.
Understanding household water-use behaviour in the city of Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Murwirapachena Genius
Published: September 2021

Climate change, population growth and industrial activities continue to threaten water security, especially in the semi-arid regions. Demand management policies are essential in minimising the effects of acute water shortages. Such policies require information on household water consumption patterns and their behavioural practices. This study examines household water consumption behaviour and the adoption of water-efficient appliances in Johannesburg, South Africa. The study uses probit regression models to analyse survey data collected from 889 households during the period November 2017 to February 2018. Results show that while most households do not have water-efficient appliances installed in their homes, they do practise water-efficient behaviour. Older respondents as well as males and lower-income respondents are found to be more likely to practise efficient water-use behaviour. However, biographical variables do not generally influence the adoption of water-efficient appliances. These results are essential for policy-makers when formulating targeted water demand management policies. Thus, policy-makers should focus more on younger people, women and higher-income households when developing campaigns on efficient water-use behaviour.
EFFECT OF LONG-TERM SPACE MISSIONS ON THE BIOMECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF LOCOMOTIONS WITH AN ADDITIONAL MOTOR TASK
Authors:   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Lysova N.Yu. , Fomina E.V. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Kireev K.S. ,   Gagarin Research and Test Cosmonaut Training Center, Star City, Moscow region, Grishin A.P. ,   Gagarin Research and Test Cosmonaut Training Center, Star City, Moscow region
Published: September 2021

Goal of the investigation is extantion of our knowledge about the gravity-dependent changes in motor control due to a prolonged stay in the spaceflight conditions using the stepping-over-obstacle test. The paper presents mechanical characteristics of locomotions performed by 7 cosmonauts onboard the International space station in 171 ± 19 day missions. Subjects of analysis were time of standing on one leg and distance of the knee joint, ankle joint and distal aspect of foot elevation over the obstacle, as well as angles of the hip, knee and ankle joints of the leg first to step over. It was shown that after long space missions the stepping-over task was fulfilled with lowered joint amplitudes as compared to the pre-flight data. Time of standing on one leg and distance between the obstacle and leg first to step over were both increased considerably only at the hight of 30 cm.
ROLE OF THE INSTRUMENTAL BEHAVIOR OF OPERATORS IN IMPLEMENTATION OF THE TEAM INTERRELATED WORK
Authors:   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Eskov K.N.
Published: September 2021

The paper deals with correlation between 6 classification types (styles) of operator's instrumental behavior and the extent of success in solving homeostatic tasks. Experimental data analysis permitted identification of instrumental behavior styles favorable to teamwork, and those that hinder work progress. This understanding will be to the advantage in selecting team members that can be trusted to implement tasks requiring good coordination and cooperation.